Encourgament, Blessings and Praise...and potentially a list of best and worst bathrooms.

I think I logged in over 1600 driving miles last week! Between trips to Florida and surrounding areas to trips to Mississippi in preparation for the estate sale and the sale itself. I feel confident enough to publish a brochure of the 10 best and worst places to stop for bathroom breaks in Alabama and Mississippi, though I won't.
In addition to those trips I also went to the University of Alabama with my son, "Bama" to run a few errands and turn in some things before he leaves for college on Friday of this week. Sister Sledge and J Smooth will return to school on Thursday of this week, with meet the teacher days dotting the upcoming week. It's been a busy few weeks! Can you believe that summer (as me and my kids know it) is already winding down? I really hate it, because aside from all the tattling and name calling, pushing and shoving, I do enjoy my kids being home. I really do.
Though I do get a chuckle from this commercial:



Today I was paid a visit by one a fellow blogger, who I like to call friend, Teresa of Grammy Girlfriend. Teresa left this comment, "Always love my stops at your blog....and the music makes me smile....Have a happy Sunday." It made me think, of the simple things in life that can offer smiles. Teresa gave me one today. I jumped over to her blog to let her know and came across a post she has written on Encouragement. She added another (updated) paragraph on her post because she didn't want to "come off as though she had it all". I had this to say back to her,

"Teresa, You are a person that always offers friendship and encouragement, but I don't think at all you come off as someone who is better than anyone (by thinking that they have it all together all the time). I think life and the situations in it are managed through faith and having a positive attitude. Sure, it isn't always obtained, for we all have moments where we are weak, for we are human, but after the pity party (and make it short) dust yourself off and get back in the saddle of life. I relate so much to you in the sentence " I do good in the Big Things...I do a little less than Great in the little things". That is so me. I get so frustrated at little things that sometimes set me off, such as someone who is rude and the big things I am a rock. I also think that through trails we grow as people and we grow in our faith and relationship with not only God but one another. It's through encouragement and support that our relationships deepen and strengthen. And in all those situations that are not good ones, we must stop and think...what is the ray of light in the darkness? Where is the rainbow? Make a positive from a negative.I find so much encouragement from your post...and you. Thanks friend!"

I receive so much encouragement from your visits here to Bloggeritaville. Yes, YOU, my friend, the very one reading this. I have shared this already, but it applies...there are times I feel like I am constantly running attempting to get things accomplished and coming up short. But when I sit down at my computer for a breather, I always find encouragement when I see that you have visited Bloggeritaville and took time to leave a comment or an email. It's like a hug. I feel guilt, as though I have come up short these days in spreading myself around but I promise that after next week, when all of my children are in school I hope to feel less like, (my mom's expression) for lack of a better comparison, "a turd in the toilet bowl". True, it's not a joyful image to conjure up, but life isn't always sugar coated, and often times these days I DO feel as though I am circling round and round just trying to stay afloat. LOL! And one has to laugh. In the grand scheme of things, I have little real worries, for God blesses me each day. I think it's important to stop, and listen. Be still and listen. And count our blessings.I think it is good to count our blessings everyday.

Speaking of counting blessings, I have a praise report..... (my children's friend) Garrett came through brain surgery wonderfully. Doctors are watching a little "something" but feel as though it is swelling. Thank you all for your prayers, and please continue to pray-for he still has a road ahead of him in healing and getting to full speed.

I want to thank my friend Jennifer, Dust Bunny Hostage for asking her readers to pray for Garrett. A prayer chain for Garrett...for where a link alone is weak, many together it is strong. Thank you, Jennifer for your friendship and constant example of christian love and acceptance. I am blessed for knowing you and honored to call you my friend.

I just thought I would publish a rare weekend post.
Just some thoughts I had to ramble off.

I do want to encourage you to visit Teresa's blog. Right now she is hosting her own giveaway, which is valued at over $100.00. And as if that isn't enough, she is also hosting a blog carnival of giveaways, but some very giving bloggers. All you have to do is visit Teresa's blog for details.

Be sure to come back tomorrow. I still have lots to say about the experiences that were made of all those driving miles. And there are many. LOL.
Wishing you a wonderful Sunday!
Praise God!