Carol

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Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 04:19:14 GMT

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What is a family?

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:54 GMT

Ever ask yourself, "what is family" or 'who is your family? Do you consider your family your biological sisters, brothers, mother and father? Or do you have a situation where your family is blended; step mothers, step fathers, step brothers/sisters, half brothers/sisters?

As we age and grow as individuals, we leave our original family and make our own family as adults. Some of us get married, and may or may not have children. Some have children and never get married. Some may never marry and choose their friends to be their family.

Growing up, I thought familly was a biological mother, father, brothers and sisters. The father worked outside the home, and the mother took care of the children and home. The TV shows I watched as a child had a big influence on my perception of family; Leave it to Beaver, Father Knows Best, and I love Lucy. The men would go to work, while the women stayed home and took care of the laundry, children, home, cooking and looking lovely in high heels and pearls. The men would come home from work to find dinner ready and the children's homework completed; usually a beautiful apron was wrapped around her svelte body. The family all ate dinner together and discussed the day events.  In Father Knows Best and Leave it to Beaver, Jim Anderson and Ward Cleaver were life insurance agents. Ironically, my father was a life insurance agent. I have always wanted to be June Cleaver or Margaret Anderson, even today as a 43 year old woman, they are my idols. They did it all so effortlessly, or so it appeared.

I have always tried to balance being a stay at home mother while having a career. Maybe I am in denial, because you can't truly be both....or can you? After divorcing Taylor's father when she was two, I had no choice but to work. And something else ironic, I was a stay at home mom who was a life insurance agent. Yes, I did it all. (I'll come back to this subject at another time).

Then there were the other tv shows I watched. They were so different than my life and looked like they were so much fun; My Three Sons, Courtship of Eddie's Father, Family Affair, The Brady Bunch and The Partridge Family. The Brady Bunch consisted of two widowed or divorced spouses, even though I have seen each show 20 times, I don't know if Carol and Mike were were widowed or divorced. Their own set of three children blended in perfectly with one another. There was always excitement going on. The Partridge Family had one mother raising 5 children without a father. What happened to Shirley's husband? The familhy would travel the country in their psychodelic bus, playing concerts and dealing with life. (By the way, I hope to have an answer to the Brady Bunch and Partridge Family question, as I sent Christopher Knight, aka Peter Brady a message on My Space, lol) Their life was always so much more interesting.

Today's times are very different than my life or the television shows I watched. And I guess my true example of life and family came from my parents. What I now know, is that my reality of family life was different than others reality of family life.

What I learned in my life looking back is that life isn't easy. If you think your life is easy, then you are missing something or not paying attention. My mother and father did everything they could to make sure that our lifes were easy; Jane Ann, Stephen and me. It worked on each of us some times, and other times we made it harder. I wish I would have been more conscious as a child, to appreciate what stages I was going through. Our parents made it very easy for us. We wanted for nothing. Even the laundry, either leave it on the floor or drop it down the laundry shoot and the next day is was hanging up clean in our closet. An old friend told me a few stories of my childhood, that I have no recollection of, and I was shocked by his story. 25 years later, I apologized to him for my childish, spoiled rotten behavior, that embarassed him. It wasn't my parents fault, they did their best in raising their children. Just as their parents did their best. (I will write about my parents childhood at another time, which are very interesting.)

Today, life is so complicated. Have we done this to ourselves? Today we are divorced, remarried, his & her kids, our kids, I even know a friend who has a 'their' kid. Step families, several sets of in laws all forced to be a family whether we choose to be or not.

I think of Taylor's situation, not knowing Tim's family and meeting them all for the first time at our wedding. It was like "here is your new family!". What did we think a 10 year old was going to do with that? Embrace them? Love them immeditealy. If she had the mental capability to think through it, was she asking herself " what is my mom doing, and who are you and why do I have to love you when I don't even kinow you?" InstaFamily. Drop it in water and after a little fizzing, WA LA, a new family.

Jim and I gave our daughter all new families.  She had no decision in it. She didn't have a choice to pick Jim and I has parents, but at least she knew us from utero. (Or did she have a choice and chose us as parents on a spiritual level? I'll save that for another time too.) Jim married Amy and they have two kids. I married Tim and we have two kids. Let's see, so Taylor has 4 natural grandparents, well 3 if you count mom's passing this summer, but I rather go with 4. Mima, Granddad, Grandma Yoshie and Grandpa Al, (5 if you count Al's 2nd wife),   8.5 sets of step-Grandparents; Larry, Gammy (but technically Gammy isn't legally her Gammy anymore), Gayle (Larry's girlfriend), Nana, Papa John, Grandpa Ronnie and his wife (don't know her name), Grandma Patty and her boyfriend Steve (want confusion? Steve was my high school boyfriend's best friend and is now with my daughter's step-grandmother) Did I just count that right, Taylor's has 14 natural or step grandparents? I have to be miss counting right? Sorry, I have to number them off.

Taylor's parents and siblings - 4 parents and 4 siblings

Me, bio mom = William 1/2 brother +
Tim, step dad = Jack 1/2 brother. For the record she does NOT call her siblings as half, they are her WHOLE

Jim, bio dad = Kameron 1/2 brother +

Amy, step mom = Kaithlyn 1/2 sister

Taylor's Grandparents -4 Bio grandparents and 10 step grandparents = 14 grandparents

Mima (Jacquelyn) my mom
Granddad (Bud) my dad
Gandma Yoshie, Jim's mom
Grandpa Al, Jim's dad
Grandpa Al's wife and I forgot her name, Jim's stepmom
Step Grandma Patty, Taylor's step mom's bio mother
Step Boyfriend Steve (who I went to high school with, ewwwwww!)
Step Grandpa Ronnie, Taylor's step mom's bio dad
Step Grandpa Ronnie's wife, don't know her name, Taylor's step mom's bio dad
Step Grandma Nana, Tim's mom
Step Grandpa Papa John, Tim's stepdad
Step Grandpa Papa Larry, Tim's bio dad
Step Grandma, Gammy, Tim's ex stepmom
Step Girlfriend of Larry, Gayle, Larry's girlfriend

Now, let's talk aunts, uncles and cousins for Taylor and see if I keep them straight. There is my sister Jane Ann whom she calls Naney, and Uncle Dave; Naney and Uncle Dave have two boys, Cousin Chris (28 yrs) and Cousin Mike (24). My brother Steve and his wife Terry, their kids Alexandrda (15) and Tom (11). Tim's sisters - Carrie is married to Eric and has 4 children, Ashley (20), Stephen (18), Alex (8), Tommy (3). Susan is married to Paul and has 3 children Garrett (7), Joliana (4), Ryan (2). Julie has Evan (8) and Elizabeth (6). Jim's brother is Mike (divorced from Clo) and has one son Mason (12). Jim's brother Gene, has one daughter Sidnie (24) from a one night stand in college (I love Sidnie, another ironic situation, she was in my nephew's classes during elementary school when we found out about her when she was 7). Amy's sister Kim and her husband Josh. Amy's brother Matt and his wife, and their daughter Zacara.

Taylor's aunts and uncles 19 aunts and uncles

Naney
Uncle Dave
Uncle Steve
Aunt Terry
Uncle Mike
~~Aunt Clo (divorced)~~
Uncle Gene
Aunt Yvette
Uncle Matt (step)
Matt's wife (step)
Aunt Kim (step)
Uncle Josh (step)
Aunt Carrie (step)
Uncle Eric (step)
Aunt Susan (step)
Uncle Paul (step)
Aunt Julie (step)
~~Uncle Jim, aka funny guy (step, divorced)~~
Aunt ? (step, she's only 4, daughter of Grandpa Ronnie)

Taylor's 1st Cousins 14 first cousins and so many 2nd step cousins, I can't count them all

Chris
Mike
Alex
Tom
Mason
Sidnie
Ashley (step)
Stephen (step)
Alex (step)
Tommy (step)
Evan (step)
Ellie (step)
Garrett (step)
Joliana (step)
Ryan (step)
Zoe (step)

Wow, that boggles my mind! How could anybody embrace so many people that were thrown at them, saying 'here's your family!"

I go back to my original question, "what is family or who is your family." I suppose it all depends on your own life and point of view.

American Heritage Dictionary defines family: n. pl. fam·i·lies

1. A fundamental social group in society typically consisting of one or two parents and their children.
2. Two or more people who share goals and values, have long-term commitments to one another, and reside usually in the same dwelling place.
3. A group of like things; a class.
4. A group of individuals derived from a common stock: the family of human beings.
All the members of a household under one roof.
A group of persons sharing common ancestry.
Lineage, especially distinguished lineage.
A locally independent organized crime unit, as of the Cosa Nostra.
1. A group of like things; a class.
2. A group of individuals derived from a common stock: the family of human beings.

*Definition #5 is an intersting subject, especially with me being a criminal justice major and a fan of the Soprano's. However, that is not one of the definitions I was thinking. lol

Any other thoughts on this subject? Would love to hear.

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Wednesday, 1/16/2008

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:53 GMT

Well, another day has gone by. It's about time to put the boys in the bath and to bed. While that is our nightly routine, I would call it a far cry from being an actual routine. Jack normally fights off his bath, which makes me wonder if he is really my biological child. Tim insists he is the baby that came out of my C Section on 10/19/04, so I have to believe him. Taylor and William love their bath, just as I do. I can change Taylor and William's mood within 3 minutes, just by drawing them a bath. The same goes for me. Something about the extra hot water, calms us to our cores.

Jack fell asleep in the living room a bit ago, while watching Rookie of the Year. He may slip by without a bath tonight. Tim carried him upstairs and probably put him to bed. William is a few feet away from me watching National Geographic's show, "A Man Among Wolves".

It's snowing outside. While we have had quite a bit of snow this season, it hasn't disturbed our day to day activities. Wonder how much we will receive tonight? Never know if the weather reports are accurate around here. A co-worker told me about a weather report in Minnesota recently. A woman reporter was on remote while talking with the weather anchor back in the station. The weatherman had reported snow was coming the previous night, but it didn't snow. The woman reporter said to the weatherman live on camera, "What happened to the 8 inches you were giving me last night." ha ha

William's teacher emailed me that it's time to get Jack's application in for Peer Model in the Walnut Grove Elementary Pre-School program. Can't believe how fast the kids are growing. Jack will make a great peer model. William has loved the program. I need to enroll William for kindergarten for Fall. Seems like yesterday Taylor was in kindergarten. I'm going to let the boys take their time with school and being kids. Taylor skipped a grade early on and while it was a good idea at the time, I didn't like her going to high school at 13 with 18 and 19 year olds. Life goes by fast enough, why let the kids skip a year? I think parents do it for their ego, or lack of knowledge. Everybody wants to think their child is super intelligient. Even if they really are super intelligient, why push them in school? There are other ways to develop their special gift without cutting back their childhood years. This is such a controversial subject. (Does anybody have the mediocre child? Surely there are parents with mediocre kids, but nobody will admit it. ha ha)

I got up early this morning. Had a 7:30 meeting, NAIFA-JW (National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors of Johnson and Wyandotte Counties). I am Secretary/Treasurer and Association of Health Insurance Agents Chairman. We have a monthly breakfast meeting. Colleen Eikmeier and I are co-chairs for Programs. Colleen actually does the work in picking our programs, but I will take credit for recruiting her . She's brilliant. We had a speaker today who discussed factfinding. He works on a fee basis and commission. Interesting concept, but hard to wrap my brain around by him doing fee and commissions.

I have told just about everybody I needed to speak with personally that I am leaving Strategic Employee Benefits to be a Financial Rep. I truly believe in Northwestern Mutual and the network philosophy. I was limiting myself in SEBS and it's time to move on. I want to concentrate my practice on long term care and long term disability, both for business owners and their employees. We have a true and important message to spread regarding these subjects with mom and dad's situation. (more to come later)

We get to meet our new Managing Partner tomorrow. He's coming from Cincinnati. I think he's in his mid 30's and been the MP in Cincinnati for three years. He went to college at Illinois. Wonder if he knows Lou and Mary Henson? I think everybody from Ilinois knows the Hensons, so he will probably say yes.

I talked with an old friend today. It was good to visit and see how our lifes are going.

I talk to Tita just about every day. I try to call her first before she catches us eating dinner or putting the boys in the tub. Doesn't always work though, lol. We're talking about going to Disneyland. I think it would be fun. She's coming to see us in February and we're going to see Joel Osteen. We are both fans of his, and it will be a great experience to share with each other. Tita is a good, wise soul. She's influenced many people in her life. Not sure if she really realizes it.

Talked with Jane Ann today, eh, I talked to her almost every day too, and somestimes 3 or 4 times a day. lol Dad is using one of their cars to go to Santa Fe. He's doing a bit of lobbying for the Las Cruces Public Schools. It will be good for him. He used to love things like that, but has been lost lately. Hope he gets out of his 'funk' soon. We still need him.

Taylor had a bad day. I have talked to her a few times. She really needs her mom and dad. I hate the situation. Wish Jim and Amy would take care of her. I mean, in seeing her good and funny side. Taylor has had a difficult time, and I am not sure they see it. I suppose we're all doing the best we know, or are we?

Must get upstairs and ready for bed. Tomorrow is my "hair washing day", and as Rosie says, I need it shiny. Inside joke. Bedtime is my 2nd favorite time of day. I love my family all in the nest. When Taylor and I are apart, we figure out which direction to lay in our bed, so we're facing each other, whether 1 miles apart of 1,000. Morning is my favorite time, when everyone is still asleep and I'm drinking my hot coffee, reading the news. Lifes simple pleasures are the best.

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Friday and Saturday, January 18 and 19

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:52 GMT

So far, it's been a great weekend! Tim, the boys and I went to the KC Royals Fan Fest at the Overland Park Convention Center on Friday. We arrived right at opening time, 4 PM. William loved fielding balls back in the field area. I think he spent about two hours fielding balls that were hit by other kids at Fan Fest.

Jack and I ventured out on our own and had a blast. We spent a lot of time with Slugger, who seemed to be following else or just happened to be working the crowd really well. I'm guessing several thousand people were there. Tim said today's estimate was 4,000 for last night, which is what they expected for the both days.

I was able to see John Buck, the catcher. A few months back I sat with John at a charity lunch put on by Mike Sweeney's wife. John remembered me

Jack and I were able to get some photos with a few other starters, and the guys were awesome. Jack really liked Tony Pena, Jr, and let him hold him. Do I really look old enough to be his mother? Cause I am!

Jack and I got to see Brian Bannister. Brian just switched his uniform number this year like Alex Gordon did. Brian said that when a player gets good, they let them have their number, lol. Which means they are well in to a 7 figure paycheck, lol

Once again, do I look old enough to be his mother? lol

Here is Slugger with the boys.

Self taken pictures. My poor kids, all their baby pictures show their fever blisters.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Saturday, January 26

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:52 GMT

I'm glad the weekend is here. There is so much on my plate, and I needed the weekend to take a few things off so I can focus and relax a bit.

Thursday night Tim, the boys and I met Julie, Kevin, Evan and Elizabeth at Suterra's for dinner. Our friend is a coach for the men's Oral Roberts University basketball team and he had tickets for us to watch them play UMKC. Larry met up with us at Suterra's but wasn't able to stay because Evan was not feeling well, and took him home.

It was good to watch a college basketball game again. I enjoy collegiate athletics, especially basketball. Something about the energy of the kids playing. Wow, was ORU good. They wolloped UMKC. I enjoyed seeing Coach Chris too. I miss going to NMSU games, and it brought a comforting feeling to watch him on the sidelines. (Chris coached with Mr. Henson at NMSU. Also, Chris and his family lived on our street in Las Cruces.) They played at Kemper Arena. I am used to 8,000+ being at a college basketball game. It seemed like there were only 200 people in that arena, but the real number was probably 2,000. Hardly made sense to pay the people to open the concession stand.

Had a stressful day in the office yesterday. We had employee meetings for one of our clients and the carrier rep showed up totally unprepared. I wanted to shout out, a la Donald Trump, "YOU'RE FIRED!"

Tim finished painting the powder room. The color he chose was 'antique white'. It is pretty, and a calming color. He wants to take on the kitchen next. That's a bit much for me, because I don't want the kitchen to be in a disarray for very long. I rather him take on the master bathroom first, or maybe the dining room.

The boys are getting so big. I am noticing especially in Jack. Taylor started her new semester. I am relieved she doesn't have her dad for four classes again this semester. Not sure how he pulled that one off, and the school allowed it. Hard to believe she only has 3 semesters and then done with school. She's too young! Slow down life.

I was thinking this morning about the age difference between William, Jack and me. I am 40 years older than Jack and 38 years older than William. My mom was 30 years older than me. William was lieing next to me in bed this morning. I was wondering if I have a certain smell to him, like my mom did to me. It is a comforting smell, to have your mom near. I hope I give him comfort like my mom did me. I wish I could smell my mom right now................ Maybe I will, I hope so. I smell my grandmother sometimes, when I am not even thinking of her. I know it's her way of letting me know she is still with me. We always promised each other that whomever died first, we would come back and let each other know we are there. Grandmother and I were close, and had a special relationship. Most kids have a special relationship with their grandparents, but grandmothers and my relationship was spiritual too. She gave me a lot of spiritual books, which I have all around me; home and office. My mom and my relationship wasn't spiritual, it was more of a 'being of one', if that makes sense. Ah, too deep for me right now, so I won't write about that anymore. Hi Mom! Hi Grams!

I made cinammon rolls a few minutes ago, and thought the boys would come eat them. Apparently, Playstation 2 is more interesting. What would boys do without video games?

Oh! I finally fixed the computer with all of my documents and photos on it! It has take me months, and this morning, it is working! I am so excited!

We don't have plans for this weekend, gotta love no plans or agenda. I think Tim will take the boys to watch Evan play basketball. I need to do some work on my marketing plan. Also, clean this house. It's filthy, as mom would say. Dust everywhere. Why is there more dust in Kansas than in New Mexico? I would think the desert would have more dust.

Ta ta for now.

Came back on to write more, 9 PM, 1/26/2008, Thinking about mom again. Miss America was on tonight and I watched it. Mom and I used to watch Miss America and Miss USA for as long as my memory goes back as a little girl. We once even went to the Miss Texas pageant and saw many Miss USA's and Miss Universe from years past. We didn't go places without my dad very often, so it was a special memory.

Mom loved pageants, and women who had interior beauty, as well as exterior beauty,charm, grace and talent. Mom was 5'6" and entered pageants as a college girl. Jane Ann and I have never been known for our long legs and swan like movements, so we never entered pageants. However, Jane Ann was a Prom Princess at Mayfield High School one year. When I fell in a hole at the age of 9, I hurt my leg severely. One of mom's first reactions at the hospital was, "Oh no, she will never be Miss America now." Mom, Jane Ann and I hate to tell you, but at 5'2", I doubt we would have made it in the Top 10.................of Miss Mesilla Valley. ha ha Kind of a joke between Jane Ann and me.

I flipped through the channels during one of the commercials during Miss America and ice skating was on another channel. That was something else I used to watch with mom, ice skating. We loved to watch it. National championships, International Championships, and the Olympics, we enjoyed it all. She also took me to the Icescapades in El Paso. Again, without dad, so it was our time to share. I have taken Taylor to ice shows, as well. She keeps a group photo of the last ice show we went to on her bulletin board with the following legends that mom and I loved to watch: Kristi Yamaguchi, Dorothy Hamill, Scott Hamilton, Elvis Stojko, Peggy Flemming, Nancy Kerrigan, Brian Boitano, Kurt Browning.

That's all for now.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Why do women feel guilty or say we're sorry so often?

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:52 GMT

Why do women feel guilty or say we're sorry so much more than men? Do you feel the same way? I notice I say sorry even if I didn't do something wrong, an event or something didn't go as planned, and I say I am sorry. Huh? Even guilty, if the home isn't perfect, or half way perfect, I feel guilty.

Pay attention today and see how many times you say sorry or feel a bit guilty. Were you on the phone or computer too long? Did you eat something you shouldn't have? Was it really deserving of an "I'm sorry" or guilt feeling?

Pay attention to the men around you today; whether out & about or at your office, even your family. See if you hear sorry come out of their mouths.

My husband's sorry sounds something like this, "Well.....I'm sorry, but if your foot hadn't been in my way, I wouldn't have stepped on it." Do you experience the same kind of I'm sorries?

to be continued.........

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The greatest gift a father could give

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:51 GMT

Thinking about my mom's birthday coming up on February 3, she would have been 74.

My dad gave me the greatest gift a father could give his child; he loved my mother.

There is not a greater gift you can give your child than to love their other parent. Yes, even if the parents are not married. I am lucky enough to have parents that married til death do they part. They honored their committment to each other, and were fortunate to be best friends. That is rare, very rare.

So, to my dad, I thank him for giving me the greatest gift he could ever give me. Thank you Daddy, I love you. Now, honor mom by going on with your life and live it to the fullest. That would be the biggest gift you could give her.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Tickets to Joel Osteen $60, Roundtrip airfair to Kansas City $200, Dinner at Pierpont's $250, Being with your family Priceless

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:51 GMT

I have been contemplating how to start writing about Tita's visit with us in Kansas City. I knew the title immediately and published it.  It is the content that has me stumped. As we know, because I keep bringing it up and it's the reason I started sharing my writing, I have been on an emotional roller coaster for far too long.

Tita and I had been planning her visit for months. She loves Joel Osteen and he was coming to KC, which was a perfect opportunity for her to come up and see the boys and us. Sometimes you just have to plan to make things happen. She could have easily cancelled her trip because of my prior three weeks situation. I am so glad she did not cancel.

Tita and I have always been close. While I have two other aunts, Tita is the one I am closest to, and know the best. Growing up, she spent Christmas with us. I have wonderful memories of Christmas going back to about 4 years old when we lived on Mesilla street. When we lived on Armijo, our holidays seemed to be so grand in the pink house with the stairway and high ceilings. Even when we moved out to Real del Sur, having champagne cocktails, brings joy to my heart.

Watching Tita play with William and Jack last week was a highlight in my life. I kept thinking of ways to set up a video camera so they wouldn't know it was on. But I realized that these were memories I wanted in my heart, not to be stashed away on a video and forgotten in a drawer. She may not realize how closely I watched her and the boys, but I did.

I often thought of what Tita and I have in common. We have blood, which she reminds me, is thicker than water. But we do have a lot of differences; She is an athlete, and I am a spectator. She's tall and I am short. She likes to read and I collect the books.   We both treasure momentos from our lifes and prior generations.

We also have a lot in common, more than I realized. We are both the baby of the family. Living in the shadows of our older sisters. In a way, it's been a life long struggle to live up to the shoes of the J and JA. Struggle is a harsher word than I want to use, but I can't think of another word right now. We are both spiritual, and think about what life is about, and our purpose and meaning. While I am not at the stage in my life to ask or even think about my real true purpose, she has been at that stage for awhile.

I think about her purpose and might have a pretty good clue as why she is with us but, I won't really know for years to come. What I do know is that her influence and coaching abilities far exceeds that on a court or track; whether it be volleyball, basketball, tennis or track. She underestimates herself and how much she means to so many people, which surprised me.

Not sure why it surprises me, as I think most of us underestimate ourselves. Some of us work our asses off to prove to ourselves that we are achievers. Others of us are underachievers and don't live up our true potential, living only a fraction of we can truly do.   (I am going to talk about underachieving soon in a separate blog.)

When Tita left Kansas City, I was exhausted. She is 69 years old and I am 43. She flew back to El Paso and two days later was off to Las Vegas for more fun. Wish I had half of her energy. While here, she was on the floor with the boys playing flag football, and not just for a few minutes! She played over and over for days. To quote her and mom, she's more fun than a barrell of monkeys. She has been though a lot of physical problems; breast cancer, knee replacement, heart problems and never bitched once.

The older I get, the more I understand that each of us views life from a different angle. We cast judgements without walking in anothers shoes. For example; my view of my mother, father, grandmother, brother, sister, etc. are different than Tita's view of her sister, mother, brother in law, nephew, niece, etc.. Nobody's viewpoint is wrong, it's just different. We have different relationships with each other.

Anyway, I will need to get to some things around the house. It's 68 degrees today and we're having snow tomorrow. Go figure!

Thanks for coming to our home Tita. Mis casa es su casa. Con mucho amor y besos. Su nieta y hermana de la Republica de Tejas. Viva Tejas! Ha ha ha ha ha xoxoxo

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Ride of Katy Jennings

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:51 GMT

We are descendants of Gordon and the story of Katy Jennings is a good one to share.

OLDEST HERO AT THE ALAMO: GORDON JENNINGS OF CONNECTICUT Nicholas E. Hollis (All Rights Reserved)

Gordon C. Jennings was born in May 1782 in Windham, Connecticut, the eldest son of Joseph and Ruth (Cartwright) Jennings. Joseph had served in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War and traced his line to the Joshua Jennings’ family, which first settled in Hartford in the 1630s. A farmer, Gordon was among the first pioneers to settle in Troy, Missouri (outside St. Louis) in the early 1820s. In 1833, he and a brother moved with their families to Bastrop, Texas (near present-day Austin). Later, encouraged by the promise of land grant compensation, Gordon enlisted in the Texas militia on July 25, 1835 under Capt. R.M. Williamson in the command of Col. John H. Moore. On December 13, 1835, Gordon re-enlisted, this time under Col. William B. Travis. As Texas colonists became increasingly discontented with the Mexican Government they were obligated to serve, Travis moved his regiment to the Alamo mission in January 1836 and awaited reinforcements. Gordon Jennings, a corporal, was probably manning the artillery positions when Santa Anna’s army arrived on February 23 and surrounded the crumbling church and outer lying buildings. After a thirteen-day siege, on March 6 at daybreak, 4000 Mexican infantry and dragoons mounted their final assault. They attacked in three columns, simultaneously hitting a breach in the north wall, the chapel and, a third scaling the west barrier. Hurled back twice by furious artillery and rifle fire, the Mexicans finally stormed the garrison with ladders and overran those 189 Texas militiamen. Room by room “was carried at the point of a bayonet. When the brutal hand-to-hand fighting subsided ninety minutes later, the gallant defenders lay dead. Legendary frontiersman and erstwhile populist congressman, David Crockett and six others, cornered in the church, were the last killed. Santa Anna ordered all the bodies burned, but his commanders were stunned by the ferocity of the Texans’ resistance. The Mexicans suffered more than 1,600 casualties in the assault – the flower of Santa Anna’s army. (Painting: Fall of the Alamo by Robert Onderdonk, Courtesy of Friends of the Governor's Mansion.) FAMOUS BATTLE SCENE -- Davy Crockett and his Tennessee boys shown in desperate combat at the Alamo. In a cruel irony, Charles B. Jennings, Gordon’s brother (or cousin) was killed at the Goliad massacre later that month. Alamo and Goliad became rallying cries for Texas freedom, and years later the Jennings family heirs received 1,280 acres for each hero – reflecting their service and ultimate sacrifice. Gordon’s son, Samuel Jennings (1828-1881), became a prosperous stockman in the cattle business – and Gordon’s daughter, Catherine (1826-1911), became a legend in her own right. As a ten-year-old, Catherine had ridden bareback many miles to warn her neighbors of the advancing Mexican army – and thus, “the Ride of Katy Jennings” became regarded for Texas as a kind of Paul Revere’s ride. Additional Reading “The Alamo Heroes and Their Revolutionary Ancestors,” San Antonio, Daughters of the American Revolution (1976). “The Alamo” by Mary Ann Noonan Guerra (1983). “Fall of the Alamo and Massacre of Travis and his Brave Associates” by Frances Antonio Ruiz, Texas Almanac (Waco) 1857-58. David Crockett: The Man and the Legend. James Shackford, University of Nebraska Press, 1956. Jennings Heritage Project 1312 Eighteenth Street NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20036 Telephone: 202-887-0238 Fax: 202-887-9178 Email: agenergy@aol.com "Leadership Education and Character Development Through Historical Scholarship"

"The Ride of Katy Jennings” Ten-year-old Katy was the daughter of Catherine Overton and Gordon C. Jennings. Catherine and Gordon came to Texas in 1832 and colonized land in Manor, TX just east of Austin. Gordon Jennings was the oldest defender who died in that famous battle at the Alamo in 1836. Catherine, hearing that the Alamo had fallen; she put her 10 year old daughter Katy on a bareback horse to ride the Barton Creek area near Austin. She was to warn the other settlers that the Alamo had fallen, and they would have to flee for theirlives. Santa Anna and his army would soon be up on them. Years later this escape was known as the run away scrape. Jennings, Gordon C. (b. ca 1779 at PA - d. 03-06-1836 at The Alamo, Bexar Co, TX)

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Tuesday, March 5

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:51 GMT

Boys are sleeping, including Tim and Toby. It's just me, my cup of coffee and the computer. My quiet time, to reflect on the day, read the news, and basicallly, ground myself before my daily adventure. It's my favorite time of day, even if I rather be curled up in the warm, soft flannel sheets on this cold winters morning.

Busy day, heck, busy dayS. I am excited about today and what is around the corner. Another chapter in my life is opening up. With all the chapters in my book of life, I wonder how many more I have to live and write about.

I have a schedule of times and places I need to be today, but other than that, I really don't know what to expect. What I do know, is that everything I do is with purposeful, thoughtful intentions and integrity. And remember to be kind to others a long the way, just like mom and dad (even if....).

Well, Jack just got up earlier than expected so I need to get going. We are out of toaster strudles so he's going to have waffles instead, 'with syrup' as he requested. All prepared by his mother with purposeful, thoughtful intentions and integrity, and a sprinkling of kindess & kisses.

Put your lipstick on and have a great day!

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Thursday, March 6

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:50 GMT

Change. Are you good with change? (and I don't mean pocket money kind of change, ha-ha)

Change is very scary to most people, including me. The unexpected, the unknown, afraid to be out of our comfort zone. What if our comfort zone is not good or healthy for us? What we think is comfort, may in fact be uncomfortable and damaging to us but we just don't see it yet.

Have you read the book, Who Moved My Cheese? It's a short read, maybe 30 minutes, and it is a perfect analogy on how we may need to change to grow spiritually, financially, or personally.

As I sit here, thinking about what I want to write and the proper grammar of the jumble in my brain, I think of another book I have in my bookcase. I don't think I have even read the book, but the title stands out to me right now, "Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway". I'm going to end this on that note, I am going to feel the fear and do it anyway.

Have a great day and many blessings!

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Saturday, March 8

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:50 GMT

Lately I have seen the sides of a few people that have me thinking. ( I am not using any names, nor directing this at any one whom would probably even know my Blog exists.)

Let me start with Greed. Wikipedia defines 'greed' as the selfish desire for or pursuit of money, wealth, power, food, or other possessions, expecially when this denies the same goods to others. It is generally considered a vice, and is one of the seven deadly sins.

I don't want to confuse wants with greed, such as the desire to earn more money, acquire wealth, etc.. Earning your money and acquring wealth through honest and legitimate means is good. Especially good if you give to those in true need, such as foundations and community service organizations. What is the point of earning more more and acquiring wealth if you don't use the money for good?

Material wealth does not bring happiness. Look at Britney Spears, Howard Hughes or Elvis Presley. Wow, they had it all, and material wealth did not give them happiness.

Personal
First and foremost, you must take care of you family and in this order:

Yourself. You have to stay healthy through proper nutrition, exercise, rest, spirtuality and mind. Without these, you will have a difficult time taking care of anyone else. Self sacrifice in these areas will cause severe problems in other areas of your life.
Your spouse/significant other. If you have made a vow to God, you are considered one, and must take care of your spouse in the same regards as above, referring to yourself.
Your children. One of the most important things you can do to take care of your children is to love their other parent, mother or father, whichever your case may be. Yes, even if you are divorced. If you can't find the love for them, pretend. I don't mean 'in love', as that is totally different. Nothing can be more damaging to a child than to insult, disrespect, or hate your child's other parent. Listen to your children, don't just preach to them. When talking with them, stand or sit at their eye level. Don't hover over them like a giant. If your child has outgrown you, sit down and talk with each other. Remember to listen. Listening is difficult to parents. We have been children, remember how difficult it was? Children don't have the capability to know we were once their age, so don't expect them to imagine you as a child.
Your parents. It is your responsibility to make sure your parents have food, medicine, and shelter. Your parents gave that to you, and it is your turn to do the same for them. Boundaries must be drawn because you have to take care of the yourself, spouse and children first. Remember, your parents think of you as their child. It doesn't matter if you are 4, 14, 25, 40, or 60, you are still their baby. Call or see them every day if possible, and if not, as often as you can. Remember the boundaries if there has been some abuse of crossing them.
Extended family. It is up to each of us to make sure our extended family hs food, medicine, and shelter. This area can become a bit difficult, and I think I made my point without elaborating much more.

Professional

Published on Friday, August 20, 2004 by the Chicago Sun Times

America's Disease is Greed

by Andrew Greeley

The most serious spiritual problem in the country today is reckless and untrammeled greed. Greed caused the disgraceful corporate scandals that fill our newspapers. Greed is responsible for crooked cops and crooked politicians. Greed causes the constant efforts to destroy unions that protect basic worker rights.

Greed has produced rash tax cuts that have given money to the rich and in effect taken it away from the poor. Greed has led to the immigration policy in which hundreds of poor men and women die every year as they struggle across the desert for the jobs that el norte promises them. Greed accounts for the efforts to take profitability out of the pensions and health insurance of working men and women. Greed is responsible for the fact that so many Americans have no health insurance and the fact that the recent reform of Medicare was a fraud. Greed causes newspapers to overestimate their circulation.

Greed is responsible for the obscene salaries of CEOs. In the '90s the ratio of CEO compensation to average workers' compensation was 250 to 1, meaning that the boss earned on his first day of work during a year as much as the worker did in a whole year. In European countries the ratio is closer to 100 to 1. Recent estimates put the current ratio at 500 to 1 -- the boss makes as much before lunch as the worker does all year. Greed is the cause of the high wages paid to the bosses even if the company is failing.

Greed is responsible for the endless stress and ruthless competition of the workplace and the strains and tensions of professional class marriages. Greed (in this instance another name for relentless ambition) explains much of the cheating on college campuses. Greed is responsible for outsourcing, which is incapable of comprehending that the employees who lose their jobs are also the consumers who sustain the economy. Greed generates the reckless ventures that in part caused the bubble of the late '90s. Greed causes expensive wars that shatter the budget. Greed is the reason that only the wealthy are benefitting so far from the economic upturn that is allegedly happening. Greed drives loan sharks. Greed is responsible for the success of big box stores that tax the poor with low wages to provide bargains for affluent suburban shoppers. Greed is the reason poor white Appalachians, poor African Americans and poor Native Americans must fight the wars that the wealthy start. Jessica Lynch joined the Army so she could go to college. Her Native American roommate, killed in action, joined so, single mother that she was, she could support her children. Greed is the reason why the country is being run by those whom the president has described, however inelegantly, as the ''haves and the have mores.''

No one said during the bizarre deification of President Reagan that he taught us that greed is good and that we should feel good about our greedy country. Greed is the reason that the country is being run by the insurance, pharmaceutical, weapons and petroleum industries. Greed causes worldwide sex slavery of women and children.

Greed drives the murders of the narcotics world. Greed is responsible for the exploitations of teen sports stars by colleges and for the mess in the pro sports world. It is also the cause of the use of performance drugs by young athletes. Greed is responsible for the bad advice lawyers gave the Church years ago to beat victims of sexual abuse into the ground. It is behind the scam artists who steal from the elderly.

Greed may have been a more serious problem for Americans, say, in the era of the robber barons. But the Garys and the Morgans and the Carnegies were a small bunch of men. Now their greed has seeped down to a much larger segment of the population.

The Catholic Church speaks of four sins that cry to heaven for vengeance. Two are cheating workers out of wages and exploiting widows and children. Both happen every day in our greedy country.

Ambition is not evil within limits. The struggle for success is not bad within limits. Hard work and fair rewards are good within limits. It is not good to take from the poor and give to the rich, and that's exactly what this country is doing today.

Don't let anyone tell you that lust is the most deadly of the deadly sins.

.....Need to come back and finish this......

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Warning-I am against smoking or tobacco products of any kind

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:47 GMT

I have many friends and loved ones who smoke and use different forms of tobacco. While I still love my friends and family who smoke, I am completely against.it. I try not to say anything because I believe in adults having free will and making their own choices.

It is hard for me to be quiet and I have been known to make comments such as "Nothing worse than seeing a pretty girl smoke", etc.. My father's cigar smoking is so bad that it takes me three full washing machine cycles to get most of the cigar odor out. Do smokers not notice the odor they emit? I have a hard time believing that they can be smelling the fresh air and then come home or their vehicle and not smell the intense reek of odor.

The damage it does to their bodies is extreme. Smokers are excellent at diminishing the affects to their bodies. I awknowledge the addiction to the ingredients, but that is a a poor excuse. If someone really truly wants to give smoking up, they will. Free will and making our own choices.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

The 4:8 Principle, My notes and interpretations, ongoing study

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:47 GMT

The 4:8 Principle, by Tommy Newberry
Copyright 2007

(The following are my notes and personal thoughts from reading this book. It is purely for personal purposes and not intended to infringe upon copyrighted material)

A prayer for Joy, (page 17)

Lord,
Thank you for all the goodness in my life and the great plans you have for me, my family, and my future. I praise you for my healthy mind and the power you have instilled in my thoughts. Thanks especially for the freedom you have given me to select my thoughts and thereby influence my state of mind and my circumstances. Help me to accept responsibility for my thinking. Lead me, moment by moment, to choose joyful thoughts that line up with the vision you have for my life. Protect me from searching for joy in all the wrong places, and inspire me to enjoy the gift of this present moment.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen

The Present

Thinking, talking and worrying about what I don’t want, can never bring what I do want. (page 14)

In Job 3:25, I am warned that the things I intensely fear have a tendency to become reality. And Jesus repeatedly reminds me that what I receive will be the result of what I believe. (page 15)

God designed my mind to be immensely powerful. This mental resource is one of the most wonderful blessings from our Creator. Even better, as part of my free will, he gave me command over my mind. This does not mean I must use this power but it is available. This dominion over my thoughts can be used to maximize my God given potential, or it can be misused or even ignored. (page 16)

The way I think, can either multiply or shrink my gifts and talents. (page 16)

The Bible clearly teaches me that I will “reap what I sow.” This is so simple that it is almost embarrassing to mention; however, it can be difficult to put into practice. I sow first, and then I reap. Nowhere is this more apparent than in my thinking. In Galatians 6:7, I am told, “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. In 2 Corinthians 9:6, I am warned that if I sow sparingly, I will naturally also reap sparingly, but if I sow bountifully, I shall also reap bountifully. My thoughts, like my actions, have consequences. (page 16)

As relentlessly as I may try, I cannot think of one thing and experience something else. (page 16)

Philippians 4:8, written by the apostle Paul:

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever thing are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things (NKJV)
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (KJV)
If there is any virtue and excellence, if t here is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things (fix your minds on them). (Amplified Bible)

Paul recorded in Philippians 4:8-- he challenges me to seek out and dwell on the positives in my life. When I look for places where God’s character is revealed, I am reminded of his presence in my life, and I am blessed. (page 20)

I use ‘to-do’ lists to clarify my priorities and guide me through the day. This is a good strategy, but even more important is a ‘to-think’ list. Paul has essentially given me a master ‘to-think’ list, illuminating the types of thoughts I should have if I want to produce positive results. (page 20)

Paul is telling me that what I should focus on reveals a critical point: I always have a choice. If I didn’t, this verse would be unnecessary. If I am naturally positive all the time, Paul wouldn’t emphasize this point so dramatically. If I cannot control my negativity, this teaching would be unrealistic and beyond my capability. (page 21)

Paul is reminding me that I have a choice. I can control my thoughts. The choice is between good and bad, excellence and mediocrity. Life is never completely good or completely bad. There will always be some junk and there will always be some greatness. I will always have something to complain about, and I will always have some blessings to count. (page 21)

Life is filled with peaks and valleys: there will all always be something working really well in my life in the valleys; just as everything will not be perfect on the mountain peaks. Life is always a mixture of good and bad. (page 21)

Whether I choose to count my blessings or choose to complain, I have a choice.

When I focus on the good, I not only notice more good but I actually create more good. Focusing on the positive things causes me to search for more that is positive. As a result, I perceive and appreciate more good, which sets the stage for even more positive circumstances. Eventually, I will have more joy, more enthusiasm, and more gratitude. This draws the best out of me, others around me and creating a virtuous cycle, rather than a vicious cycle, in which I continually find and multiple what I am looking for. Page 22)

When I focus on the negative, what happens?

I get dragged down, like a huge weight is on my shoulders
My motivation is sucked down as if gravity has taken hold of it I don’t operate at my full potential, hell,
I don’t operate at 1/4th of my potential
I withdraw from those I love, wanting to be left alone to re-charge myself.

Almost like charging your mobile phone but the connection between the charger and phone isn’t fully connecting and it takes triple the time to re-charge the phone. I put off going to the Sprint store to get a new phone or charger, and live with the reduced power on the mobile phone for another month before taking action. The mobile phone isn’t being used to it’s full potential, for some reason, the pain of not having the phone working properly is less than the pain of making the time to drive to the Sprint store, standing in line and waiting for my turn, explaining the problem, only to find out that the problem is not under warranty. By then, I want to scream, “just make the phone work, or give me a phone that does work, forget the warranty!”

Thinking about my mom being gone and my children nor me can never see her again in this lifetime crushes my inner soul.

That my husband, children, in-laws and the newer people in my life will never know the joyous person she was (not perfect, but joyous) before her Parkinson’s disease.

Thinking about my dad grieving so much over the loss of my mother and the damage of Allianz to his spirit.

That my husband, children, in-laws and the newer people in my life will never know the honorable, successful, respected man he was before the Evil Empire.

My precious daughter, Taylor, living away from me, her mom. I never fathomed this would happen. It is also, the most selfless thing I have ever done. I should have fought for complete change 14 years ago, and it kills me.
Letting others be negative around me. Why didn’t I prune the ‘rosebush’ a long time ago? By being quiet, I gave others the impression that they had control.
Feeling like I am all alone as a grown up. Not as a person, but as a grown up. 85% of the elders I look up to and learned from have passed away. I feel left behind when I wasn’t ready to be let out of the nest. I still had more growing up to do before being released.
Seems trivial, but the weight I have kept on since having Jack. Granted, I gave birth to him at the age of 40 and my metabolism is different. While I never want to weigh 115 lbs or be a size 4 again, a firm body around 130 lbs & size 8 sounds good to me.
My graying hair is a constant reminder that my life is moving along faster than I am prepared. My first gray hair appear at the age of 23 and noticed by Jane Ann while we were visiting. Her remark was something like, “OH MY GAWD, you have gray hair, let me pluck it”, as she was already yanking it from my head. I truly think people would be surprised to see how much of my hair is gray. My guess is over 55%, but thanks to the use of L’Oreal Medium Golden Brown every 6 weeks, they don’t see it.
My children going to another’s home while I go to work. This goes against every fiber I have, or was taught to have. The ‘or’ portion of the prior sentence is new for me. I am not sure if I told I had to be a stay at home mom and that was the only way you could be a good mom, never questioning this until my 40’s. Can I really be a good mom while having a career?

Each moment is a new beginning. My future is not defined by my past. My thoughts can change, and consequently, my future life can become totally different. Negative thinking corrupts my brain and triggers harmful mental states such as anxiety, moodiness, depression, and irritability. Unless I train my mind constructively, my thinking becomes automatic, impulsive and erroneous. My thoughts often misrepresent reality by bending, distorting, deleting, exaggerating, or manipulating the truth. (page 24)

Most negative thinking is simply a bundle of lies that cannot be substantiated and certainly could not make it through a vigorous cross-examination. When I think a limiting thought without challenging it, my mind buys into it. To counteract this, I need to remind myself that negative thoughts do not come from God. God is positive about everything but sin. If a thought brings about worry, fear or fatigue, it is not from God. After all, the Bible tell me, “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7, NKJV). If a thought leads me to feel like a victim instead of a victor, it is not from God. Though we are engineered for success, it is very easy to inadvertently program ourselves for mediocrity if I neglect to think positive, goal-directed thoughts. Productive thinking and destructive thinking are both merely habits. (page 25)

When I focus on the positive, what happens?................to be continued

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Wednesday, March 26

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:47 GMT

Time is going by too fast this week and I feel incomplete since I haven't had the time to write. How has this week gone by so fast? Is tomorrow really Thursday?

My dining room is a mess. I am trying to inventory family heirlooms I have collected, mainly for keeping track of what I have and to document to hand down. I came home with my great grandmother's china. It's beauitful and I am thrilled to have it. We were hoping to come home with the secretary desk that I love so much, but Jane Ann decided it belonged in her house. She said I can have the green tea cart instead, which I also love. However, I had my heart set on the secretary. It has meant so much to me, and I played secretary on it growing up. It was stacked with old note cards mother kept in it. It also matches the table my dad made as a teenager. Oh well, still not the hill I want to die on.

That flexibility thing again. Let it go or it can drive me nuts.

I am tired, so very tired. Things are moving along and I'm looking forward to each new day. Another busy day tomorrow, and I will write more this weekend. Boys are good. William's favorite TV show is still Two and a Half Men. Jack is talking up a storm.

Night!

Just read what I wrote last night! Hope Jane Ann doesn't read this cause I didn't mean it the way it sounds. Should I delete it? It's how I feel. In a quandry on whether to delete or not. Any advice?

Update on April 18: I thought about deleting the subject of the secretary but have decided not to. It's a good thing I love the secretary and the green tea cart. The above were simply my thoughts. I love the green tea cart and looking forward to having it one day. Meanwhile, my dad loves it and is enjoying it. I guess all of this is part of losing mom. They were things she loved and we like having them around us too. Doesn't mean we're greedy, just means we love the items that remind us of the people we love.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

The Good we do for others circulates back to bless us

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:46 GMT

When we are caring for another person, we are aware that we are caring for a sacred creation of God. Whether as a parent or spouse, grandparent or guardian, healthcare-giver or teacher, we are nurturing others and helping to shape their lives.

We honor God's creativity as we honor people--children or adults--by caring about and for them. We do whatever we can to bring greater comfort, healing, and understanding to those who need tender, loving attention.

According to the law of giving, and receiving, the good we do for others goes full circle and comes back to bless us. It may manifest in unexpected ways and from different people, yet it does appear naturally as we care about and for God's creations.

"He went to him and bandaged his wounds, hving poured oil and wine on them. Then he pue him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him."--Luke 10:34

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Monday, March 31

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:46 GMT

Happy Monday morning! As Jack screams because Tim took away his 'makeshift drum stick' banging on a Diego's travel play kit. William is trying to defend Jack and get the stick back for him. Let's see who wins the arguement. Back to that by the time I am finished writing.

This weekend.....Let me remember..

Oh, Jack won, he has the stick back.

K, back to this weekend. Friday, Tim and I had an after work drink at Garazzo's. Very dumb idea.

Wait, Tim took the stick away again, and is on his way upstairs to hide it. Jack is screaming and William is still trying to defend his brother. Funny to watch Tim debate a five year old. William is a pretty good debater. Jack is upstairs crying and mad.

K, back to dumb idea on Friday. Never drink two martini's in a one hour span on an empty stomach.

Wait, Jack found the stick and is drumming on the Diego toy. Maybe I should go finish getting ready for work and leave.

I'll skip Friday night, bad memory. Thanks for helping Sue!

Saturday............ Garrett and Joliana came over and went with Tim and the boys to Larry's to watch basketball. Joliana spent the night at Larry's and Garrett came back here.

K, forget it, Jack is still drumming with the stick. I am going upstairs to finish getting dressed for work. Can't take the BANG BANG BANG on Monday morning.

Maybe I should go get the stick myself. Ah, parenthood............................

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Dealing with Complex Problems

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:46 GMT

"Dealing with Complex Problems"

When you have a complex problem to solve, how do you go about solving it? Today, I'll give you some information that might help you. Sometimes, when we have complex or difficult problems to solve, our feelings of being under pressure cause us to push so hard for solutions that we wind up spinning our wheels. We study the problem from every possible angle, collect huge amounts of information, struggle hard and do lots of analysis.

Still the answer evades us. Some of this is because it's hard for us to tolerate feeling confused for very long. We want certainty, and we want clear answers. But sometimes it's better not to push it. As the head of theoretical physics at Los Alamos National Laboratory once said, our unconscious is an important factor in solving complex problems.

This means that while you certainly need to collect all the information you can, and sometimes literally immerse yourself in the problem, at some point it is important to back off and leave it, trusting that creative, productive mental work will continue even if you're not aware of it. Peak performers of all kinds demonstrate this and researchers confirm it: analysis and intuition are partners in creative work.

People who won't relax their dependence on concrete, countable information often just can't see possibilities that don't fit into what they already know. But, if you're willing to let go for a while and let your creative subconscious have a turn, you may be surprised and pleased at the results.

Lou Tice
The Pacific Institute
www.thepacificinstitute.com

"TPI teaches people how to manage change, set and achieve goals, lead more effectively, and think in ways that create success."

Winner's Circle Network with Lou Tice (WCN) is a registered trademark.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Reason and Emotions

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:46 GMT

Winner's Circle Network with Lou Tice - 4/4/08 - "Reason and Emotions"

The ability to reason and understand is important to our well-being, but so is our ability to feel emotions. Let's look at how the two fit together. Intelligence is a wonderful thing. Our ability to reason, to make rational choices, and to look at things analytically has given humanity many great things. But when the mind is operating without the heart, when intellect rules without benefit of humility, we often end up in very deep trouble. In the 20th century alone, we saw the most cultured nation in Europe launch the Holocaust and the most creative scientists among us have managed to spoil our air and drinking water.

Have you ever wondered why so many people seem to be afraid of their feelings? They are determined to avoid appearing openly emotional and they often behave scornfully to others who are in the grip of strong feelings.

They want to feel in control at all times, but one of the things about being fully human is acknowledging that reason can only go so far. There are some things in life that are deeply mysterious. They defy logical explanation, and require that we accept rather than understand.

Sometimes we need to care and show kindness rather than dissect and analyze. Remember the scientists in the movie "E.T.?" They were driven by their intellects to study this wonderful creature instead of loving and learning from him, something the children did quite naturally.

So don't let your quest to understand life prevent you from truly experiencing it, and don't let your desire for knowledge keep you from achieving real wisdom.

Lou Tice
The Pacific Institute

www.thepacificinstitute.com

"TPI teaches people how to manage change, set and achieve goals, lead more effectively, and think in ways that create success."

Winner's Circle Network with Lou Tice (WCN) is a registered trademark.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Garrett, Papa Bear and Future Teen Star

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:46 GMT

We drove out to Pleasant Hill last night to watch Garrett in his first grade music class production. I knew he was going to be Papa Bear, just didn't know he had the male lead. Not lead from his class, but the entire grade. He looked so cute with his tan courderoy pants, brown shirt and brown ski cap with bear ears sewn in.

Before heading over to the high school auditorium, I asked Garrett if he knew his first line. He recited it to me perfectly. He knew exactly what he was doing and had the confidence of a pro.

I was so excited when he had a duet with Mama Bear. I didn't know he could sing! He sang perfectly in pitch and without hesitation. I fully encourage him to continue his talents and see where it takes him, or Susan, since she's the one who'd have to do all the driving to rehearsals and events.

We sat in the balcony to watch the performance. And when I say 'we', I mean we. There was Grandpa Canaan, Grandma Canaan, Daddy Paul, Mommy Sue, Papa, Aunt Julie, Uncle Kevin, Tonti, Uncle Tim, Aunt Carol, Gayle, Evan, Alex, Elizabeth, William, Joliana, Tommy, Jack, and Ryan. It was so cute so see all the little cousins lined up on the front row of the balcony peeking over watching their cousin Garrett. They were just as proud as the adults were.

I watched Paul as he paid close attention to his oldest on the high school stage where Paul is Asst Principal. I could see the pride Paul had in his son. While I didn't know Pleasant Hill was a town beyond Susan & Paul's house, it was obvious that everyone in there knew that was Mr. Canaan, the Principal. Susan held her video camera and I don't think she stopped smiling once.

Even with the chaos of raising three small children and careers, the love they share shines like a bright light over their heads. To top it all off, they are pretty people. I like to introduce them as "this is Susan, Paul, Garrett, Joliana, and Ryan; aren't they beautiful?!" More importantly, they are beautiful souls. They are a fortunate family, hope they know it.

Susan had a pot of chili for everyone to have a bite to eat and the boys and I were last to leave the house since Garrett needed to get there early. Tim, Julie, Kevin, Larry and Gayle went to the KC Royals season opener and were hurrying to make it to the high school in time. As I was putting Jack's shoes on, he was asking where we were going. I told him, "to watch Garrett's play." Jack asked, "What? Basketball?" I said, "no." He asked again, "What? Baseball?" I responded, "no." Again, he asked, "What? Soccer?" I thought, how can I answer this question, since he has never been to a play, and the fact that I said Garrett and play in the same sentence, could only mean sports to Jack. So, after his soccer question, I said, "I'll explain later, you'll see." Jack ended the conversation with, "What? Football?" I gave up and by then his shoes were on and tied. Out the door we went to the 'play', as I laughed at my youngest. He really is funny.

So, as I sit here finally having a chance to write, I can hear my own chaos coming from the shower. William and Jack are taking a shower and I think there will be a cry soon. yep, hang on......oh, good, not as bad as I thought.

I really should be studying my language for tomorrow's meeting. Best get going since it's already 9 PM.

Tim got the boys in their jammies and Jack just ran in to give me a kiss goodnight. I reached over to kiss him and he was making spit bubbles as he puckered up. I wiped them off, said 'no', and gave him a quick smooch.....off he ran in Evan's old Power Rangers jammies. Jack is going to his bed and watching Scooby Doo before falling asleep. William gets one quarter to play Playstation 2's NCAA football. If I hear that NMSU Aggie fight song one more time, I will scream. For some reason, William can get the Aggies to beat the opponents 63 -3 on Playstation 2 and after each good play or score, I get to hear "Aggies O Aggies, the Hills Send Back the Cry, We're Here to Do or Die......." Maybe Boston McKinley should hire William as the Aggies Head Football Coach. Hmmmm, who knows what tomorrow will bring.

Blessings!

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

A Mother's Love

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:45 GMT

The Apricot Blossom, A Mother's Love

Last night, I received an email from the brother of a dear friend I haven't seen in a long time. I made contact with him through the networking site Linked In. Little did I know, the Apel family would touch my heart again. When I first met Andy and Dave, I was 16 years old. Andy and Dave were going to New Mexico State and were from Los Alamos, New Mexico. Andy soon graduated and moved on. Dave became a very close friend to me, and I introduced him to my family. Dave and Cousin Rob became good friends and roommates. Dave gave my mother a very special print by the artist Secundino Sandoval. She loved the print and it always had a special place in her home.

Andy, Dave's brother is the one I made the connection with on Linked In. I searched for Apel and found Andy's name. Last night, we chatted a bit, back and forth through emails. In one of my emails, I mentioned that my mother passed away recently. His response to me was, the above Apricot Blossom photo along with the explanation below..........

On this photo, the reason I called it Mothers Love was this.
1. It is an apricot blossom.
2. The apricot jam is special.
3. Moms are special.
4. The drops of water dripping from the flower is like a mothers tear. You can feel their Love.

Anyway, enjoy the photo.

Andy

Thank you Andy, your words and photo are beautiful and again, one of the Apel's touched me.

Dave introduced me to his little brother Pete, when he came to New Mexico State from Los Alamos. I remember meeting Pete at his dorm on campus across the street from the tennis courts. Pete was a musician, just as Dave was. Pete was a special person. That wasn't the last Apel that Dave introduced me to. There was his little sister Val. I don't know where Val is, but I am hoping to soon here from Dave. Andy is passing along my contact info to him. The last time I saw Dave was around 2000, at the wedding of some college friends.

I am feeling very blessed today, to have once again come in contact with the Apel's. It's a good day and I needed the spiritual energy from Dave, even if he doesn't know it yet..........

You can see Andy Apel's work at the following websites. Please visit them, his work is inspiring.

http://myviewofnature.com/
http://mr-nmchile.com/gallery/beescreekgrill/

I also want to share with you the website I found on Pete Apel. As the mother of a 3 and 5 year old, and aunt to 7 + (one on the way) beautiful children under the age of 8, his music will be very fitting! Please visit Pete's website.

http://www.peterapel.com

.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Taylor,"The Teenager" Is Here! Visit to Union Station and Bodies Revealed Exhibit

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:44 GMT

This mother hen has all he chicks in her hen house!
Now, let's see if I can keep some order he he

Taylor flew in today at 1:50. We went to Crown Center
and Union Station. We went to Pierpont's
and had a snack and visited with each other.

http://www.crowncenter.com/
http://www.unionstation.org/
http://www.herefordhouse.com/content/pierponts.php

After that, I surprised her with the Bodies Revealed exhibit.
I was actually scared to go, but thought I would experience
it with Taylor for an educational piece. Very shocking!
Interesting and surreal. I wonder who the people where
and what kind of life they lived. They were exposed in full
nudity, skeletel and disection. Learn more below.

Would love to hear your feedback on this controversial subject!

http://www.bodiesrevealed.com/index-home.html

Using real human specimens, painstakingly prepared
and respectfully displayed, the Bodies Revealed exhibition
lets visitors of all ages explore deep within the human body
in a way that informs but doesn’t overwhelm.

As the visitor moves from gallery to gallery, the exhibition uses
14 full body human specimens and over 200 organs to tell the
story of the miraculous systems at work within each of us every
second of our existence. Rooted in the historical precedent set
by such great anatomists as Vesalius and da Vinci, each full
body specimen is dissected to best reveal the function of a
complete anatomical system and to show that system’s
relationship to the body as a whole. The full body specimens
are complimented by presentation cases of related individual
organs, both healthy and diseased, that provided an even
more detailed look into the elements that comprise each system.

Our bodies are our most important possession. They are
intricately developed machines; more complex and wondrous
than all the computers and gadgetry we surround ourselves
with today. Yet many of us do not know what makes us
tick—how we function, what we need to survive, what
destroys us, what revives us. Bodies Revealed, made
possible through the process of Polymer Preservation,
is an attempt to remedy that lack of knowledge by presenting
to the lay public material that was previously only available to
the medical profession: a three-dimensional tour of the human body.

Countless visitors have remarked that the knowledge gained from
the experience has provided them with a new connection to their
own bodies. Others claim a new reverence for life and a desire to
take a more preventative approach to their health care. To quote
writer and philosopher John Conger whose words are displayed
in the exhibition, “Without the body, the wisdom of the larger self
cannot be known.”

Polymer Preservation: The Process
This education-rich exhibition is made possible through the process of Polymer Preservation, a process that consists of several essential steps.

First, a human body must be obtained through a legal, willed body donation program. These programs exist around the world and serve to provide anatomical material that assists medical and scientific communities in their ongoing research and educational endeavors. Willed body donation is an anonymous process with donor names universally withheld to protect the privacy of the individual donors and their families. Once obtained each donated body is embalmed according to standard mortuary practices. During this process the body is perfused with a preserving agent like formalin to prevent normal tissue decay.

After a body is embalmed a trained dissector is employed to prepare it, or some part of it, according to predetermined guidelines, so that it may best educate and inform the general public and a medical audience. Because of the detailed work involved in the dissection on a full body specimen, this stage of the process may take several months to complete; individual organs can be prepared much more quickly.

Once dissection of the body/specimen is completed, it is thoroughly rinsed in cold running water. This helps cleanse it of as much of the preserving agent as possible. Rinsing a specimen the size of a whole body can take up to one week to complete.

The dissected and washed body/specimen is now ready to be dehydrated. This is accomplished by submersing it in acetone, a highly volatile chemical that, through the process of normal diffusion, acts to replace all of the tissue water in the specimen. Acetone is the perfect dehydrating agent for the process of Polymer Preservation because of its high vapor pressure, a characteristic that will facilitate its leaving the specimen when it is subsequently placed under vacuum.

Next, the acetone-saturated body/specimen is placed in an impregnating solution that consists of a mixture of liquid silicone polymer and crosslinker. The impregnation solution of silicone polymer and crosslinker is now placed into a vacuum chamber where it is subjected to a gradual increase in vacuum pressure. As the vacuum pressure increases, the acetone leaves the specimen in the form of a gas and is replaced by the polymer-crosslinker mixture. This seamless transfer creates a specimen that is now completely impregnated with liquid silicone even down to the cellular level. This step in the Polymer Preservation process can take from several hours to an entire week depending on the size of the specimen being impregnated. The crosslinker is an important component of the impregnating solution, as its presence will eventually allow the liquid silicone to be hardened during the final stage of the process known as curing.

Now completely impregnated with liquid silicone, the body/specimen must finally be cured to allow for its permanent educational display. During this process a special chemical agent, called a catalyst, is applied to the exterior of the specimen. The catalyst reacts chemically with the crosslinker in the specimen causing the liquid silicone polymer to harden (repolymerize). Either before or after the specimen is cured it can be selectively colored to make it more suitable for public display.

The end product of the Polymer Preservation process is a dry, odorless specimen that resists decomposition thus allowing its user to create a unique collection of permanently preserved human specimen for public exhibition.

by Dr. Roy Glover, Medical Director

An introduction to your body: system by system
Skeletal System
Like the frame of a house, the skeleton forms the internal structure of the body. It resists the pull of gravity and protects vital organs, while over 100 joints provide it with remarkable mobility. All bones store important mineral salts; in addition, red bone marrow in the flat and long bones creates 2.5 million new red blood cells each second.

Muscular System
The muscular system is the engine that drives the body. By connecting across the joints of the skeleton, muscles create levers that, when they contract, move the bones. Other types of muscles move food through the digestive tract, blood through the blood vessels and keep the heart beating every second of your life. Like any good engine, the muscular system also produces heat, which helps maintain body temperature.

Nervous System
Faster than the world's most powerful computer, the nervous system transmits information through nerve cells at speeds above 270 miles per hour. As the main organ of the nervous system, the brain determines the appropriate response to thousands of pieces of information each second, while also maintaining all vital body functions as well as processing thoughts and emotions.

Respiratory System
The surface area of the lungs is great enough that, if spread out, it would cover half a football field.

The body requires a constant supply of oxygen for life. The respiratory system provides oxygen by drawing air into the lungs and supplying oxygen to the bloodstream through the diffusion of gasses. While oxygen passes into the bloodstream, carbon dioxide-a waste product made by every cell in the body-passes into the lungs and is exhaled at the end of each breath.

Digestive System
One of the world's most efficient dis-assembly lines, the digestive system uses a combination of mechanical and chemical processes to break down the food we eat and convert it into nutrients that the body can use for food.

Urinary System
The complex filtration within the kidneys requires over 100 miles of blood vessels.

Through a process of continual and complex filtration, the urinary system collects metabolic waste products from the blood and removes them from the body while maintaining the proper balance of water and electrolytes in the blood.

Reproductive System and Fetal Development
While every other cell in the body has 46 chromosomes, the female sex cell, the egg, and the male sex cell, the sperm, have only 23. Only when the egg and sperm combine is a new cell created that is capable of developing into a human.

Circulatory System
Crisscrossing the body in a fine weave, the blood vessels of the circulatory system hold the body together. They transport everything the cell needs to maintain life. The circulatory system carries oxygen and nutrients throughout the body, as well as powerful guardian cells that seek out and destroy any virus or bacteria.

The Treated Body
Thanks to medical research, we are living longer and staying healthier. Advanced diagnostic equipment, like Magnetic Resonance Instruments (MRI), has greatly assisted in diagnosing and pinpointing disease, making surgery more accurate and efficient. Thorough study of human anatomy, thorough educational vehicles such as the specimens in Bodies Revealed, has also enabled the development of prosthetic replacements for many parts of the body and specialized tools that help surgeons gain access to and monitor regions of the body in the operating room.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

To Taylor, with love from Mom

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:44 GMT

As I Watch You Grow Do,
you know how much you mean to me?
As you grow into what you will be.

You came from within,
from just beneath my heart
it's there you'll always be though your own life will now start.

You're growing so fast it sends me awhirl,
With misty eyes I ask,
Where's my little girl?

I know sometimes to you I seem harsh and so unfair,
But one day you will see,
I taught you well because I care.

The next few years will so quickly fly,
With laughter and joy,
mixed with a few tears to cry.

As you begin your growth to womanhood,
this fact you must know, You'll always be my source of pride,
no matter where you go.

You must stand up tall and proud,
within you feel no fear, For all you dreams and goals,
sit before you very near.

With god's love in your heart
and the world by its tail,
You'll always be my winner, and victory will prevail

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Quotes I have saved along the way....for us, for our children, for our familes, and for me

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:44 GMT

If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it, change the way you think about it.
Some of God's greatest gifts are unanswered prayers.
If you can find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn't lead anywhere.
When the Japanese mend broken objects, they aggrandize the damage by filling the cracks with gold.
They believe that when something's suffered damage and has a history it becomes more beautiful.
We turn to God for help when our foundations are shaking, only to learn that it is God who is shaking them.
If you're in a bad situation, don't worry it'll change.
If you're in a good situation, don't worry it'll change.
It is a common experience that a problem difficult at night is resolved in the morning after the committee of sleep has worked on it.
Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine.
If you don't get everything you want, think of the things you don't get that you don't want.
Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference.
Wear a smile and have friends; wear a scowl and have wrinkles.
Keep smiling - it makes people wonder what you've been up to.
The Constitution only guarantees the American people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself. ~Benjamin Franklin
If you want to be happy, be.
Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.
Of all the things you wear, your expression is the most important.
"Some men are wise, and some are otherwise."
"Wisdom is not wisdom when it is derived from books alone."
Making the decision to have a child - it's momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking outside your body.
A son is a son till he takes him a wife, a daughter is a daughter all of her life.
A daughter may outgrow your lap, but she will never outgrow your heart.
A mother's treasure is her daughter. Mothers and daughters are closest, when daughters become mothers.
A daughter is the happy memories of the past, the joyful moments of the present, and the hope and promise of the future.
A daughter is a day brightener and a heart warmer.
Friendships come and go, but families are forever.

The following is a poem that has been around for years.
Children Learn What They Live If a child lives with criticism, she learns to condemn.
If a child lives with hostility, she learns to fight.
If a child lives with ridicule, she learns to be shy.
If a child lives with shame, she learns to feel guilty.
If a child lives with tolerance, she learns to be patient.
If a child lives with encouragement, she learns confidence.
If a child lives with praise, she learns to appreciate.
If a child lives with fairness, she learns justice.
If a child lives with security, she learns to have faith.
If a child lives with approval, she learns to like himself.
If a child lives with acceptance and friendship, she learns to find love in the world.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Weekend of April 25 - 27

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:44 GMT

Hello! Crazy week and haven't had time to even read the news lately. Thought I would write a few things in no particular order, and update as the weekend goes along.

Last night Kevin and Julie popped over for a bit. We sat in the dining room, which we rarely do because normally the laundry is piled over the dining room table. We cleaned it off to set up the new 22 inch widescreen computer monitor that I need for work. The laptop monitor is so small and my aging eyes were going batty.

Taylor had a date last night with a boy I adore. Even Tim likes him! It is hard to find kids today with manners. When he picks her up for dates, he comes to the door, walks around to the drive way and up the walk. Most kids walk through the grass. He shakes hands, looks you in the eye and is genuinely nice. He goes to a great private school, works hard and A+ athelete, serious student, follows curfew, nice to the boys, and pets Toby. I think I need to tell Taylor we don't like him, just so she will. ha ha We weren't even worried about her coming in by midnight. Gotta love that!

I had a great night sleep, which was much needed. I think I fell asleep at 10:30 and woke up at 10:30 this morning. Training class has kicked my butt, literally. We all slept great. Tim and I layed in Jack's bed with him this morning and played a little game. I would say, "who loves their Daddy, raise their hand!" We'd all raise our hands. This would go on back and forth with me substituting names like "Mommy", "Taylor" "Toby" "Granddad" "Nana" ""Papa" etc......

I heard something this morning I never thought I'd hear in a sentence. Jack crying out, "William hit my privates with the carrot!" He cried and it hurt him for quite a while. Let me clarify that the carrot was not a vegetable. The carrot was a plastic baseball bat that Babysitter Lynda gave to the boys for Easter.

Another sentence I didn't ever think of, happened this morning. Denny and Jamie live next door. Tim and I have been lucky to have great next door neighbors here and in Las Cruces. Anyway, Jamie called and this is the conversation.
Ring Ring....Ring Ring...
Carol, "Hello"
Jamie, "Hi Carol, It's Jamie" I'm just calling to let you know that I sprayed for weeds in the side yard and didn't want the boys or Toby to play there and get sick."
Carol, "Thanks for calling! I will tell Tim. Yeah, my father in law sprayed his yard recently and somehow the dog got out and he got really sick from the chemicals."
Jamie, "One more thing I want to ask you. Can my dogs poop in your backyard today?"
Carol, "HA HA HA HA, you know we're good neighbors when you can call me and ask if your dogs can poop in our yard."
Tim, overhearing from the bathroom, "AH HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"
Jamie, "Thank you, yes, we're good neighbors. When they have to go, we'll be in your back yard and I"ll have my plastic baggy to pick it up."

Tim and the boys just went to Uncle Billy's to watch the draft. For some reason the draft seems to be bigger than normal this year. I asked Tim why, and didn't know it was a big year for the Chief's pick. Tim told me yesterday that my 'boyfriend' was leaving Kansas City. Boo Hoo! Jared Allen is going to the Colts. I'm bummed because I was going to ask him over for dinner with us. And I am not joking, I was determined to invite him over for dinner. I'm going to ask John Buck and Alex Gordon too. Just you wait, they'll be over for a barbeque one day.

Can't believe it's already 2:15 PM. No wonder I am hungry.

I was reading my blog today and watching the video of mom and dad. I was bawling like a baby. I miss her so much. I miss my daddy too. I called him afterwards. He sounds so sad. I know I live 1000 miles away so don't know the whole story, or if his memory is serving him correctly but he said, "Everybody else around here seems to have their families come see them. Nobody comes and sees me here." That broke my heart that he feels that way. Whether or not it's true, he felt it at that exact moment. He's going to Potosi a week from Monday and we'll drive over the following weekend to see him. I also want to do some business there. I want to write one BOLI case this year. BOLI is "Bank Owned Life Insurance". We have the best product out there and I want to talk to Belgrade State Bank about it.

Well, that's it for now, I made a salad. I'll write more later.

xoxoxoxo

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Control of Your Life (Good one and appropriate for me right now)

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:43 GMT

Winner's Circle Network with Lou Tice 4/30/08 - "Control of Your Life"

Do you ever feel like events in your life have gotten out of control? Some days, it's easy to feel that way.

No matter how diligently you set goals, visualize results, and affirm a positive outcome, every once in a while your life is going to feel as if it's gone a little crazy. Carefully laid plans go up in smoke - sometimes quite literally. People you counted on, bail out on you. A health or family crisis strikes. An earthquake or tornado puts you back to square one. Suddenly you feel as if you're completely off course, out of control, and lost at sea.

At times like this, there are a few things it may help you to remember. first of all, no one can control every aspect of his or her life, and adversity comes to all of us, no matter how moral we are, and no matter how good our attitude is. Bad things happen to good people all the time.

Second, it's important to realize that there is one and only one thing in life that is completely within your power to control, and that is your response to what happens to you. When you find yourself overcome with feelings of fear, helplessness, doom and gloom, you can put the brakes on these feelings by gently but firmly choosing to shift the focus of the thoughts that are running through your mind.

Your feelings are a direct result of the thoughts you think, and setting aside some time every morning and evening for positive visualization, affirmation, or guided meditation is a highly effective way of getting these thoughts back under your control again. Try it. I think you'll be surprised at just how well it works.

Lou Tice

The Pacific Institute

www.thepacificinstitute.com

"TPI teaches people how to manage change, set and achieve goals, lead more effectively, and think in ways that create success."

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Sunday, May 18, 2008

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:43 GMT

I am so happy that I got to talk to Cousin Sidnie yesterday. She is doing great, and in the Coast Guard. Who would think that a girl from the high desert would end up in the Coast Guard? I remember the first time I saw Sidnie, it was in 1989. Sidnie is Taylor's 1st cousin, if you are wondering. Sidnie went to elementary school with my nephew, Mike (Jane Ann's son). Never knew I had a nephew AND a niece in the same class. Taylor and Sid have a lot in common. I am so glad we've stayed in touch over the years. Now that they are gettign older, they can have a close relationship. Below is a picture of Sidnie. She's gorgeous! I think Taylor and her look a lot alike. They are first cousins. I can really see the Japanese in the both of them in these pictures. They are 1/4 Japanese.

We are having to buy a car, which is not making me happy. Kind of wierd how I turned out so frugal. Tim had me test drive a few cars yesterday. The fist cars were Mercedes C and E class cars. I like them both but preferred the E class because they are larger. Found some good deals, and one I wanted. Then he took me to the Hyundai dealership, which was mean of him. How do you go from a Mercedes to a Hyundai? Especially when I owned a Hyundai twenty years ago and it was a lemon. They have changed a lot and have a good report from Consumer Reports. We kept the Hyundai over the weekend to see if we like it. It is an Azeria or something like that.

Tim is mowing the yard. We are having company in a little while. One of the moms from Babycenter is coming over. They are in town and it's a great opportunity to meet. I haven't actually met one of the other moms from Babycenter. Most of us have been on the bulletin board for 6 years, since we were pregnant with our October 2002 babies.

Better go get ready. Have a great day! Until next time -- Blessings!

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Special Time of Year- Happy Birthday to Martha and me!

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:43 GMT

June 1, generally the end of the school year and the beginning of the lazy days of summer. I always loved this time of year. It's not to hot yet, and the beginning of the summer. The excitement of Martha and my birthdays was the icing on the cake. So, Happy Birthday to Martha and me!

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Saturday, June 7 2008

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:43 GMT

Hello! Jane Ann came to town Monday - Friday. Short and exhausting trip for her, but glad she came. Tim went to Branson with Mike Hinkle for a weekend of gold. He needed to get away.

Getting ready to take William to his tball game.

That's all for now. I'm still around, just busy. Here are some random pictures.

Love,

UPDATE on my day,
The boys and I stopped at Tuesday Morning on the way home from T-Ball. (yes, William hit the ball over everyone's heads each time at bat again. As well as playing outfield like a pro). The boys got new swim trunks and eye goggles for the pool. I let them take the gogglies in the tub with them. First mistake. Second mistake, one of the boys got 80 Crest White Strips out from under my sink and through them all in the bath tub with them. I kept thinking I smell toothpaste and thought "great", the White Strips aren't water proof. Then looking at Jack, realized William had squirted an entire brand new tube of toothpaste on Jack's head. I rushed Jack to the shower before the toothpaste got in his eyes and burned them.

AND, I caught William peeing in the cat litter box.

Now, it's 9:30 PM and hopefully they will wind down soon.

If you are laughing right now, stop! It isn't funny.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

The Energy Bus, Jon Gordon

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:42 GMT

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

July 2, 2008

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:42 GMT

This morning Jack was lieing in my lap after he woke up and I was drinking my coffee and reading the news on the internet. I was half reading and thinking of mom at the same time. How did a year pass by already? My mom is dead. My mom is dead? What? When did that happen? Looking at Jack lieing in my lap, I realized he was looking at me, really looking at me and smiling. I thought, "gosh, Mom would just eat him up right now." I know what she would say if she was there. I know now, she was there this morning. She said, "He's in love with you, look at the way he's looking at you." Just then, out of nowhere and half asleep, Jack said, "Where's MoMo?"

Jack doesn't remember MoMo. He knows her pictures and knows of us talking about her, but he doesn't remember her. Yet he does know her and knew she was there. You can believe or not believe, but examine what happened. How could a coincidence like that happen this morning? No other explanation, my little angel Jack saw his big angel Jacquelyn, aka MoMo. I had a sense of calmness about me. I knew I was doing the right thing in taking time off from work. Mom didn't like my children going to daycare. She believed my place was in the home. I didn't realize I was going to take the time off this week, I was on a roll at the office. But something stopped me, and guided me home; where I belong for now.

Taylor comes home tomorrow. I know she is excited, and I am too. She's had a rough two months. I am proud of her, she has achieved so much in the last few months. I think she must be scared too, but won't admit it. I know I am scared, and I admit it with all I have. I am scared. Taylor and I talked about anger and emotions. She was honest about feeling. Doesn't she know that she can show other emotions? I am not much of a crier, but she thinks I am. I have had a lot to cry about these last few years, and I have never held my emotions back from her. She thinks crying is a weakness. "But honey, crying is not a sign of weakness", I said to her. She disagreed and we got in to a passionate conversation about it. We couldn't come to a conclusion. At least for tonight.

She needs her hair cut, so on our way home, we will go to the beauty shop (are they called beauty shops anymore?) and get her hair done. Nothing like having your hair done when you're not feeling good. After all, our hair is our crowning glory. Think about it, when you have a good hair day, all goes well.

We're in the middle of a thunderstorm right now. Loud roaring thunder, flashes of bright lightening strikes beam through the covered windows. It must be bad out if I can see the lightening through mini blinds and curtains. I think the storm is overhead. Toby is not happy and wimpering while lieing next to my bed. Jack is asleep next to me on the bed and William is lieing on the floor watching his favorite tv show, Two and a Half Men. I'm not a fan of Charlie Sheen but it is a funny show. My favorite show comes on next, Frasier.

Tim is in Las Cruces for Mike Jordan's wedding. Mike is a great guy, so glad he's getting married. Wish I could be there too, but it was bad timing. I hope Tim has a good time. He's staying at Jane Ann's. I told him to say hi to Molly for me, she's a good girl. (Molly is a golden retriever with beautiful graying hair that makes her look like she had her hair frosted at the finest hair salon.) Jane Ann and Dave are coming home from Mexico. Bet they had a good time, forgot where they went exactly but think I remember Mexican Riviera with an all inclusive resort.

After Las Cruces, Tim is flying to Brownsville to see his mom and John. We are buying a Mercedes, and I'm excited about it. I have never bought a car for cash before. Woohoo! What an exciting feeling it is. Pay to the Order of John Alberg.....memo line says purchase of Mercedes Benz. Wow, wrote a check in full for the purchase of a Mercedes; fully loaded 4 door sedan. Ok, so it's a 1988 Mercedes 560 SEL with 20,000 miles on it but why in the heck would I buy a new car and have it depreciate as soon as I drive it off the lot?
A few reviews on the car....

"Classic Luxury Benz"

1988 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL sedan

	8.0		Overall Rating

	8		Styling
	9		Performance
	7		Interior
	8		Quality
	8		Recommendation

Pros:

I had wanted this car for a very long time and purchase a used one 2 1/2 years ago. The ride is wonderful, and I liked the performance of the car especially at highway speeds. It certainly will do the speeds of the American highways.

Cons:

Of course like most people in this day in time, the fuel economy is horrible, but that is what you get for performance and a heavy car. The leather seats do not last like you would think in a $56,000 car but for nearly a 20 year old car I guess that isn't bad. Repair costs of course are high, but overall for a Mercedes not bad. When trading them in they are under valued, but certainly trying to buy retail they are over valued at most places.

Overall Review:

Overall, for the time that I have owned this car, I was impressed with the style, comfort and certainly the performance. Mercedes today are not built as good as the 80's models for durability and safety. I would own one again, but I wil look for one that is a 90's model to get the later version of interior.

"Great DB product"

1988 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL sedan

	9.2		Overall Rating

	10		Styling
	9		Performance
	10		Interior
	8		Quality
	9		Recommendation

Pros:

For such a hefty car, it can get up and go! It's a great car for road trips since it's reliable as [you know]!

Cons:

The stock stereo [They didn't focus on sound systems back then]. And maybe the color???

Overall Review:

I'm upset to say, but this is truly the last of the best from Mercedes. My particular car is a European model and I love it! I’ve owned three Mercedes since I was 18 [now 30] and wouldn’t think of not owning one. However, my next Benz will most likely be of the vintage variety. This one will run forever if you KEEP UP on the MAINTENANCE.

So, there is some new info on our life here in Overland Park, Kansas. Hope your life is going well, where you are living .

Blessings and love,
CJ

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Control Over Your Emotions - Weird timing if you read my post from yesterday

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:41 GMT

Winner's Circle Network with Lou Tice - 7/3/08 - "Control Over Your Emotions"

When you hit your thumb with a hammer, you know what causes the pain. Do you know what causes the emotion?

All of us have nervous systems that cause us to feel pain. All of us have emotions, too. We feel happy, sad, angry, elated, hopeless, inspired. But where do the emotions come from? What causes them?

When you hit your thumb with a hammer, you feel pain. You may also feel some anger and maybe even some shame. We can safely say that the hammer caused the pain. But we can't say that the hammer caused the anger or the shame. If that were true, then it wouldn't matter who hit them on the thumb, every single one would feel exactly the same emotions.

So how come you get mad when the same situation doesn't bother someone else at all? They laugh it off without a hint of anger. You see, the truth is that you cause you own emotions, and you do it with your thoughts. Many centuries ago, Epictetus said, "We are disturbed not by the things that happen, but by our opinion of the things that happen." I want you to know that you don't have to let your inner feelings be dictated by the external environment.

You can, bit by bit, learn to handle any and every situation you want to. You can learn to change your opinion of the things that happen so that you control your emotions, rather than letting them control you. Can you see yourself taking charge like this?

Lou Tice

The Pacific Institute

www.thepacificinstitute.com

"TPI teaches people how to manage change, set and achieve goals, lead more effectively, and think in ways that create success."

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Taylor and Carol's trip to Milwaukee, July 2008

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:39 GMT

Taylor and me in Milwaukee. We had a great time and stayed at the Pfister Hotel. The Pfister is part of the Historic Hotels of America and was built in 1893. It's gorgeous! It's the 2nd best hotel I have stayed in; 2nd to The Watermark in San Antonio (which is also a Preferred Hotel and Resort property).

Our Kansas office had 3 of the top 20 producers with Northwestern Mutual, a HUGE deal! Very exciting to see them on stage with 10,000 other NMFN Financial Reps watching at the Bradley Center, home of the Milwaukee Bucks. Monday morning we had the opportunity to listen to Rudy Guiliani talk about leadership. He only made one political joke and it was funny.

We also had the opportunity to hear from one of our own NMFN Financial Representatives whom is a survivor of the Columbine shootings in Colorado. What a true inspiration!

The top two pictures of Taylor were on Lake Michigan.

We were having dinner at Louise's in Milwaukee

WE LOVE YOU REBA! ha ha, Tim told us to say that

More pictures lakeside. Lake Michigan is so big, you really think you are on the ocean.

The above pictures are at the garden party at the Milwaukee Zoo. We had a great time and with the ultimate party people. In the group picture above is Tom Mulhern, Jim Porter (in his zoo pants, wears them every year), Kent Wilson, Taylor, Kent and Judy's daughter and her friend, and Judy Wilson. I especially like the picture of Taylor and me on the bus coming home from the zoo party. Neither one of us realized each of us were making a funny face.

Taylor and me at Mo's Steakhouse.

Mugging for the camera in our hotel room.

Reba McIntyre and Archie Manning performing/speaking for us. Reba was awesome. I knew she'd be good, but she was better than good. Very sweet and attentive to NMFN. Archie was good too, humble and couldn't mention a pro team without a section of the crowd cheering for their team being mentioned. He's not pro football player Archie Manning anymore, he's now Payton and Eli Manning's daddy.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

William's T-Ball games

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:38 GMT

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Hi! I haven't posted in quite awhile........

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:37 GMT

Hi there! I haven't posted in quite awhile. A lot going on that I am not wanting to share at this point. Maybe one day soon. I thank my Guardian Angels for keeping me going; especially Coeli Baker, the world's best prayerer. I made up the word prayerer, but it fits the scenario. I also think Robbi from Dr. Tenny's office for calling to see how I am doing. It's those random calls that help when I don't think I can take another step. They re-energize me.

Jon Gordon says in his book, The Energy Bus that 80% of the people who ask how you are, don't really care. It is getting more obvious to figure out who the 20% are. Are you part of the 20%? I am. When I ask how you are doing, I wait for the answer. Never trust a skinny chef and never trust a person who doesn't answer when you say 'hello, how are you?' If I take the time to ask, please take the time to answer. Short answer is perfect, it's an answer.

We have a new precious baby in the family as of 4:30 PM this afternoon. Eian Patrick Spatz was born to Kevin and Julie Spatz. Eian's siblings are Elizabeth, Evan, Kristen, Kelsey and Kaitlyn. Julie is Tim's sister. I'm so glad they had a boy. Life is good.

Thought I would share some quotes from one of my favorite icons in business history, Napoleon Hill. Hope he gives you motivation and/or inspiration as they do me.

If you must speak ill of another, do not speak it. Write it in the sand near the water's edge.
All the breaks you need in life wait within your imagination, Imagination is the workshop of your mind, capable of turning mind energy into accomplishment and wealth.
Before success comes in any man's life, he's sure to meet with much temporary defeat and, perhaps some failures. When defeat overtakes a man, the easiest and the most logical thing to do is to quit. That's exactly what the majority of men do
Big pay and little responsibility are circumstances seldom found together.
Desire is the starting point of all achievement, not a hope, not a wish, but a keen pulsating desire which transcends everything.
Edison failed 10, 000 times before he made the electric light. Do not be discouraged if you fail a few times.
Education comes from within; you get it by struggle and effort and thought.
Fears are nothing more than a state of mind.
First comes thought; then organization of that thought, into ideas and plans; then transformation of those plans into reality. The beginning, as you will observe, is in your imagination.
Great achievement is usually born of great sacrifice, and is never the result of selfishness.
Happiness is found in doing, not merely possessing.
If you cannot do great things, do small things in a great way.
If you do not conquer self, you will be conquered by self.
It has always been my belief that a man should do his best, regardless of how much he receives for his services, or the number of people he may be serving or the class of people served.
It is literally true that you can succeed best and quickest by helping others to succeed.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Visit to New Mexico in August

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:37 GMT

A few weeks ago I flew back to Las Cruces with Dad. Stayed with Jane Ann & Dave and we had a good time. Saturday night was the Southern New Mexico Community Foundation Gala. Before the gala at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Museum, there were different dinner parties across town sponsored by different people. We attended the dinner hosted by John and Ruth Christopher. John is the GM of Comcast and Ruth is CFO of Citizen's Bank. The dinner was at the Double Eagle, which made it feel more like home to me. We sat with Tom and Jerean Hutchinson, John and Ruth and Dave, Jane Ann & me. We laughed the entire time. The Las Cruces Sun News was there and took a picture of Dave, Jane Ann & me which appeared on the online photo gallery of the newspaper. Of course, there would happen to be 14 wine glasses in front of us. lol They served a different wine with the four course dinner.

Here is the picture that was online:

Here is a picture of me, Leah Camunez Salas and Jane Ann when we were at the museum:
I managed to get in a few business meetings that were successful. It was good to get back to my hometown. It's also good to get back home to my own family.

I connected with my neighbor on Horseshoe Circle in Las Cruces through Facebook today. Her in laws were the ones that bought our home in Cruces. We really miss the layout of the house. It was perfect for the boys and Toby. She is doing good and it's a shame that we didn't get to know each other better before moving.

Had a chance to spend some time with an old friend, and that was fun. Saw Denise for a few minutes at her store, had a shot of Patron at Double Eagle and visited with John and Wyn Ritter, and barely made my plane home on time. Go figure, me running late.

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William's first game of coach pitch baseball. First time up at bat and grand slam home run!

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:36 GMT

These video clips are from William's first day playing coach pitched baseball. His first time at bat he hits the ball over the fence, foul ball. The second hit, he hits it over the fence again, but perfectly. Grand slam home run!

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Private for family and loved ones only

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:36 GMT

Teen Addictions: The Untold Story Reported
by Lisa Benson Email: benson@nbcactionnews.com Last Update: 1:09 pm www.nbcactionnews.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=49833bdf-41ad-4356-b998-28eeeea29334 Related Links

PrescriptionDrugAddiction.com Prescription Drug Use and Abuse
by FDA JOHNSON COUNTY, Kan. - Bridget is a 16-year-old Johnson County teen. She has a loving mother, step-father and two younger siblings. She also has an addiction to prescription drugs. Bridget’s addiction did not start with prescription drugs. At the age of 14, she experimented with marijuana, but considered herself a social user, only partaking when marijuana was available, never purchasing for herself. The distinction of a "social" drug user changed when Bridget was 15. Bridget says a stomach ache at school prompted another student to offer her medication. Unbeknownst to her at the time, that was the beginning of her prescription drug addiction. “He gave me this whole bottle and I think I took like 11 of them. That's where it all started. I knew prescription pills could mess you up, but I never had really done em'. I didn't have contact until then,” Bridget recalled. Bridget fed her addiction through her mother’s prescription medications and her friend’s medicine cabinets. The accessibility of the prescription medications allowed Bridget to easily access the high she was looking for. “You don't have to pay for them if you just steal them from your parents, or get your friends to like get their parents. You don't have pay someone and you don't have to call somebody,” Bridget explained. Through a web of lies and deceit, Bridget was able to keep her addiction under control for more than a year. “Prescription drugs would not be the only drug I would do,” Bridget stated. Eventually, her mother Carol, noticed changes in her behavior, and a lack of interest in volleyball. Carol suspected drugs were to blame. Carol took Bridget to the doctor for a check up, and her fears were confirmed. However, the degree of her daughter’s drug use was not clear until more than a year later. Bridget was arrested for assaulting her mother and three police officers. A Mother's Nightmare (Getty Images) Related Links WEB EXCLUSIVE: Interview with Addicted Teen’s Mother Carol has enjoyed a close relationship with her daughter, but believes Bridget had more independence than she needed living between two divorced parents. Carol and her first husband divorced when Bridget was 3. For years, Bridget lived in two states, traveling back and forth to spend equal time with each parent. Carol believes Bridget had “user friends” in both states. When Bridget was 15, she quit her high school volleyball team, a game that she had previously loved. Carol initially fought the decision, but soon accepted that her daughter was no longer interested in the game. Then Carol noticed other behavioral problems. “I was surprised that she'd skipped a class,” Carol said. Carol also noticed Bridget was often irritable and very secretive. Carol decided to take her daughter to the doctor. Carol admitted, “I knew something was definitely not right, and my mother intuition kicked in.” After the doctor's confirmation, Carol enrolled Bridget in her first out-patient treatment program. However, Bridget was still secretively using - a secret that would soon be revealed. Two days after her first stint in rehab, Bridget went to a movie and didn't return home. Later that night, Carol found her daughter at a friend's house. She was high on prescription drugs and furious with her mother. Bridget physically attacked Carol. Onlookers called police. “She was extremely aggressive, it wasn't her. She ran around the car and just started attacking me. She had me by the hair and wouldn't let go. My hair was coming out,” Carol said. “My daughter's chemistry doesn't know when to stop. She can't just take the one pill. She needs to take the second, the third, the fourth, the fifth, the sixth, the seventh and the eighth to feel the affect.” Police arrested Bridget for assaulting her mother, and three police officers. From her jail cell, Bridget was taken straight to the hospital for detoxification. Carol says Bridget had taken so many prescription pills, that she couldn't feel pain. Carol added, “My daughter's chemistry doesn't know when to stop. She can't just take the one pill. She needs to take the second, the third, the fourth, the fifth, the sixth, the seventh and the eighth to feel the effect.” Carol soon realized she needed more help to fight her daughter’s addiction. She admitted Bridget to a 90 day residential treatment center. Bridget spends 24 hours a day in a controlled environment, where she can’t access prescription medications. Living at home with her husband and two other children, Carol sometimes feels guilty about her daughter’s addiction, questioning, “Was I a bad mother? Had I done something wrong? Was I not in tuned to things?” These questions still haunt Carol’s mind from time to time, but for now she looks forward to her daughter’s weekly home visits, and the day that her daughter beats her addiction to prescription drugs for good. In the meantime, Carol tries to help other parents learn the warning signs of a prescription drug addiction. She also encouraged everyone to take preventative measures to protect metro teens, by locking up all prescription medications. What Parents Need To Know Related Links National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence/Greater Kansas City If you believe your teen is abusing prescription drugs, there is help here in the Kansas City metro area. The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence/Greater Kansas City is available to help those suffering from the disease of alcoholism and other forms of addiction. They offer help, hope and healing to all who come through our doors. They have a 24/7 hotline at (816) 361-5900 or (913) 223-0747. This line is always answered by a real voice, and a certified counselor is always available. Help is also available on their Web site. In addition to school-based programs, NCADD/Greater KC provides services to individuals, families and professionals. Because the NCADD/Greater KC believes that too many lives have been lost and families destroyed because of addiction, it is committed to providing assistance to those in need regardless of their ability to pay. The “How to Cope” program is an award winning model program for families dealing with a loved one and the disease of addiction. Alcoholism and addiction are the number one diseases afflicting our nation today. They are chronic and terminal but they are also treatable. Most of those who seek treatment can live a healthy, happy life in recovery. The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence of Kansas City helps build that bridge to recovery.

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Home, The Southwest United States of America

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:21 GMT

Press play to hear Podcast.

New Mexico, The Land of Enchantment and my home for 39 years.

Gila Cliff Dwellings- Two hours from Las Cruces. Taylor and I went camping there when she was younger.
One of the more remote NPS national monuments in the Southwest, the Gila Cliff Dwellings lies deep in the mountains of the Gila National Forest, surrounded on all sides by wilderness areas, over an hour's drive from the nearest town on steep, winding roads, and situated well away from main cross-state routes in New Mexico. The monument is a small site of just 553 acres, containing the ruins of interlinked cave dwellings built in five cliff alcoves by the Mogollon peoples between 1275 and 1300 AD, reached today by an easy one mile loop trail along a narrow canyon. So the time needed to tour the caves is rather less than the time spent driving to them, though the journey across the steep, forested hills and valleys is part of the attraction of the ruins, as is their out-of-the-way location. The nearby area has plenty of other features of interest including hot springs, more ancient sites, national forest trails and fishing along the Gila River.

The ruins in Cave 4

Rooms in Cave 2

Wooden ladder leading to the ruins in Cave 4

Ruins in Caves 3 and 5, on the north side of Cliff Dweller Canyon

Carlsbad Caverns - Took overnight school field trips here.
The Guadalupe Mountains span the Texas/New Mexico border and rise to heights of 8,749 feet, in great contrast to the flat desert land all around. Two National Parks are found within their range; Guadalupe Mountains (in Texas), which has rocky peaks and scenic valleys with varied wildlife, and Carlsbad Caverns, one of the oldest and most famous cave systems in the world. These are a full days drive from any of the other major attractions in the Southwest, but are well worth the long journey - they have several vast underground chambers, up to 250 feet high, filled with amazing formations of many colors and shapes.

Wide view in the Big Room

White Sands National Monument - 45 miles from Las Cruces. Been there more times than we can count.
West of Alamogordo, a vast area of desert and mountain ranges 100 by 40 miles in extent is closed to public access and used by the military for various kinds of weapons testing; this includes the Trinity Site where the first atomic bomb was detonated, in July 1945. Determined tourists may visit on 2 days each year, the first Saturdays of April and October, when accompanied tours are provided. The only other feature of interest in this otherwise desolate and unwelcoming land is 60 miles south in the flat Tularosa Basin - here, for thousands of years the prevailing westerly winds have deposited gypsum powder - formerly eroded from the nearby San Andres Mountains, washed down by rainwater and deposited in the seasonal Lake Lucero, a few miles southwest - creating a huge area of white dunes covering 275 square miles. About half of the sands are within the boundaries of the White Sands National Monument, one of the most unusual and magical places in the Southwest.

Late evening on the dunes

Road through the sands, as a thunderstorm approaches from the north

A bleached earless lizard

White Sands Ripples
Jonathan Larsen

White Sands, Dune With ...
Sigen Photagraphy

White Sands Sunset

One of the prettiest places on Earth!
Bandelier National Monument is an unexpected delight, with some of the most unusual and interesting ancient ruins in the Southwest, steep narrow canyons with plentiful wildlife, mountains rising to 10,000 feet, many acres of unspoilt backcountry and a colorful section of the Rio Grande river valley. The monument is just a few minutes drive from the scientific research town of Los Alamos, and close to other popular destinations including Santa Fe, the Jemez Mountains and several historic pueblo settlements.

Kiva in the Ceremonial Cave

The Rio Grande river valley, at the end of Falls Canyon Trail

The Lower Falls of Frijoles River

Tree Cholla - opuntia imbricata, in Falls Canyon

Cimarron - Lots of fun here, especially making snow angels, wink wink!
The Cimarron Range is a part of New Mexico's Rocky Mountains, west of the quiet town of Cimarron and northeast of the higher, more extensive Sangre de Cristo Mountains. From the town, highway US 64 follows the valley of the Cimarron River, through land that changes from arid prairie to chaparral to forest as the elevation increases. After Ute Park village, the valley narrows, the scenery becomes more dramatic and the river enters Cimarron Canyon, 8 miles of which is contained within a 33,000 acre state park (part of the Colin Neblett Wildlife Area); besides the ravine itself, the park includes several miles of the mountains to the north and south, though this is rather inaccessible and most visitation is confined to the river corridor.


The palisades	US 64 through the canyon	Stream and trees


View above highway 64	Fir trees

City of the Rocks. Lots of fun here, while growing up and on our wayt to Silver City; about 1 and 1/2 hours of Las Cruces


The rolling, grassy plains of southwest New Mexico are not an obvious place to find unusual, eroded rock formations but in one shallow valley near Deming, well south of though still in sight of the rugged Gila Mountains, is a half mile expanse of large volcanic columns up to 40 feet tall, known as the City of Rocks. The area was incorporated as a state park in 1952 and is popular for camping, photography, wildlife watching or just walking amongst the rocks - some can be climbed, others have sheer sides that form a maze of narrow passages between them. The park is a favorite with children, who can explore the rocks all day, though the average non-camping visitor may only stay for an hour or so.


Path through the formations	The rocks	Table Mountain

The Jemez Mountains, Ok, THIS might be the prettiest place on Earth. I can't decide!
Along with the Sangre de Cristo range, 35 miles distant across the Rio Grande valley, the Jemez Mountains form the southernmost tip of the Rocky Mountains which stretch over 2,000 miles north into Canada. They contain no great natural landmarks, just a large area of mostly undisturbed forested wilderness, with rocky peaks, meadows, mountain streams, lakes and waterfalls, and only occasional houses and villages. More unusual features result from past volcanic activity - there are hot springs, sulphurous vents and a caldera - a ring of hills comprising the remains of several long-extinct volcanoes.

Part of the Valle Grande caldera as seen from SR-4

IMG_0363.jpg

Navajo Lake State Park, Lots of fun here too! Fly fishing on the San Juan River is not far; fun fun fun!
Navajo Lake was formed after construction of Navajo Dam across the San Juan River, which starts in the San Juan Mountains in Colorado, flows south into New Mexico and across the northern edge of the state past Farmington, Shiprock and Four Corners then on into Utah where it forms the goosenecks of Goosenecks State Park. The waters of Navajo Lake have backed up some 30 miles upstream of the dam along the river plus lesser distances along various tributaries so although all branches are quite narrow, the lake has a considerable area, and is mostly used for boating and fishing. Vehicular access is limited as there is only one main approach road (NM 539), that crosses the dam at the southeast corner of the lake, plus another gravel track (NM 527) to the Sims Mesa area a little way east. Other parts of the shoreline can only be reached by a network of rough tracks across hilly, rocky terrain, though the far north end, over the Colorado border, is also close to a main road (CO 151). This part of the lake is outside the state park, and within the Southern Ute Indian Reservation.

The lake - view above the marina, looking north to the end of the Los Pinos River branch

Santa Fe, New Mexico. Need I say more? Been there, done that a gazillion times. The most mystical place on Earth.
This website is about landscapes, but Santa Fe is well worth a mention - it is the most attractive and historic town in the Southwest, and the oldest state capitol in the US, founded in 1610. The centre has a charming small-town feel, with all the main shops and old buildings within walking distance of each other, and the distinctive adobe architecture is used almost universally - houses are painted in subtle, officially-approved shades of pale brown, with characteristic clay walls and protruding wooden ceiling posts. Banks, restaurants, art galleries, the police station, even the local McDonald's - all are built in the same style.

The First National Bank of Santa Fe Old building near the railway station Dried chillies

Jewelry sellers at the
Palace of the Governors Richards Avenue The Plaza

Curio shop Santa Fe Plaza Trains at the station

The Republic of Texas, My birth land and lived there for two years. Daughter of the Republic of Texas

Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Together with the nearby Carlsbad Caverns, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is far removed from most other natural attractions of the Southwest. The nearest cities are El Paso (110 miles) or Carlsbad (55 miles), and there are few facilities in this mostly barren region. The park contains the southern end of the Guadalupe Mountains, an isolated range surrounded in all directions by desert, and few people visit, due perhaps also to the lack of a central attraction, a scenic drive or named viewpoints. Guadalupe is primarily a park for hiking; there is a network of trails and the region has varied climate zones with differing wildlife and vegetation, interesting geology, and many photographic opportunities. As an added attraction, at the end of summer the red, gold and orange colours of the foliage in some of the canyons creates for a spectacle as good as that in New England.

View from Guadalupe Peak Mule deer in McKittrick Canyon Grotto in McKittrick Canyon

View south over El Capitan Along the Guadalupe Peak trail McKittrick Creek

McKittrick Creek Upper McKittrick Canyon Approach to the park from the east

Big Bend Ranch State Park
Big Bend Ranch is by far the largest state park in Texas, and probably the least well-known, since it lies in the most remote part of the state, occupying a large part of the desert west of Big Bend National Park. The land is mostly roadless, with harsh, irregular terrain and extreme temperatures most of the year - Presidio and Lajitas, the two small towns at either side, often vie to be the hottest place in Texas, and sometimes (in spring and early summer) in the whole US. They usually top 100°F for the first time during April and may still do so in October.

A narrow section of Closed Canyon Passageway in Closed Canyon

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park - See other parts of my website for more info. I am a direct descendant of Gordon Jennings. The oldest man to fight at the Alamo.
Settlement in the San Antonio area dates from the early eighteenth century when explorers crossed the Rio Grande and began travelling though the lands north of Mexico, with the aim of extending the new Spanish territories. Besides the acquisition of new land, these pioneers also sought to spread the Catholic faith - new villages were based around a large church with other buildings for storage and living quarters, which together with cultivated areas for crops and animals were enclosed in a high protective wall, to ward off attacks from unfriendly groups of roving Apache and Comanche Indians.

The whole compound was termed a mission, and several dozen were built across south Texas, always near a river; as well as the San Antonio, they were constructed along the Rio Grande and Nueces, and further east along the Neches and Angelina. After the new territory was secured, the missions became important links in the supply route to lands in the east that were being threatened by French insurgents from Louisiana.

Queue for The Alamo Plants in the Alamo gardens Mission Concepción

Mission San Juan Mission San Juan The Alamo

Arizona, The roots of my maternal grandmother, Mary Ruth Martin McCutcheon

NM

Superstition Mountains - I lived there for one year, 1989-1990. Hot as hell but gorgeous!
The Superstitions are the largest of the mountain ranges surrounding Phoenix, visible from many miles away along the straight roads through the suburbs east of Mesa. They rise steeply above the flat desert to a high point of 5,024 feet, and are characterized by sheer-sided, jagged, volcanic peaks and ridges separated by boulder-filled canyons, all covered by saguaro at low elevations, with other cacti and bushes higher up. Trees are found only at scattered locations, at springs or beside streamways. Early settlers named the hills on account of the many myths and stories told by the local Pima/Apache Indians about the mountains, and tales such as the fabled Lost Dutchman gold mine.

Bridge on the Apache Trail Canyon Lake Marina The Apache Trail

Camping by Peralta Road La Barge Canyon Narrows of La Barge Creek

Reflections Trail to Boulder Canyon Battleship Mountain

The Coronado Trail - US 191 - Home to my Great Grandparents, Ruth and Vernon Martin
The Spaniard Francisco Vásquez de Coronado became the first known European to lead an expedition into the USA when, in 1540, he and a large group of settlers crossed the Mexican border near the Huachuca Mountains, site of the present day Coronado National Memorial. From here they headed northeast, over the White Mountains in the east of the state and then, after side trips to Hopi land and the Grand Canyon, continued through New Mexico and into Kansas. Their route through Arizona coincides largely with US 191 (formerly US 666), and the 123 mile section between Clifton and Springerville is named as the Coronado Trail to commemorate the exploration, though as with the national memorial there is no visible trace of the expedition. Instead the route, or indeed all of US 191, is a showcase for the varied and spectacular scenery of eastern Arizona, from the Sonoran Desert grasslands and valleys of the southeast corner, across the steep and heavily wooded White Mountains, down into the more barren lava fields and red plains of the Petrified Forest region and finally into the sandy expanses of the Navajo Indian Reservation.
The South: From the Huachuca Mountains, Coronado traveled up the San Pedro River Valley and headed northeast, probably crossing the Dragoon Mountains close to where I-10 cuts though today. Just east of the mountains, the interstate is joined from the south by US 191 which thereafter marks the approximate route taken by the Spanish expedition. The first point of interest is the largest dry lake bed in Arizona - 200 square mile Willcox Playa, a National Natural Landmark, best viewed by driving south on US 191 a few miles. This is a vast expanse of dry mud, ringed by a white band of salt deposits and completely without vegetation. The top corner is crossed by tracks of the Union Pacific Railroad, part of a dead straight stretch of over 20 miles.

Mines: Ten miles beyond Willcox, US 191 parts company with I-10 and heads due north, 25 miles across the very wide, empty, cacti-covered plain of the San Simon Valley to Safford, then changes in character as the road becomes narrower and winding, through the Peloncillo Mountains, which are made of dark rocks in varying forms and colors, a hint of the interesting geology that lies beneath, and reflecting increased mineralization that culminates in the historic mining town of Clifton. This is another small settlement with many old buildings dating from the nineteenth century, and is also the terminus of a branch of the Union Pacific Railroad, all built in quite a narrow canyon, dwarfed by huge tailings piles from mines in the surrounding hills. North of Clifton, the road, now officially designated the Coronado Trail, is less traveled and climbs quite steeply, past more mining activity, through a small tunnel and past various abandoned buildings then into a region of even greater excavation - this is the amazing Morenci Mine, a vast copper operation run by the Phelps Dodge Corporation where many acres of the hills have been dug out to great depths, revealing rock strata of varied colors. A roadside overlook high above gives a fine view of current activities, looking town on army of rock-moving Caterpillar trucks that seem tiny from a distance but actually can carry over 200 tons. The course of the road in this area seems transient, as if it is moved depending on which part is being excavated.

Mountains: Beyond the mine, US 191 follows the steep-sided valley of Chase Creek, up switchbacks at the northern end then continues to climb steadily, though mixed woodland at first and later into dense pine forests - uneven land which forces many 10 mph bends and steep gradients, and the road remains so for the next 50 miles, as it crosses the east side of the White Mountains. The road passes various campgrounds, trailheads, viewpoints, forest tracks, picnic areas and occasional flat meadows like Four Bar Mesa, but most is very winding and often precipitous, with unfenced, steep drop-offs at the side. One summit is reached at Rose Peak (8,786 feet) but later the route climbs higher still, up to 9,300 feet as it reaches the Mogollon Rim, where winter snows linger until June. The seemingly endless woods harbor many animals, including a pack of Mexican gray wolves, which were reintroduced to the Blue Range area in 1998. At Hannagan Meadow, the road improves somewhat, becoming wider and less bendy, soon descending into slightly more gentle scenery at Alpine - a small town in a wide valley, though still over 8,000 feet. The mountains end not far north of here, as the trees are replaced by bushy plateaus and mesas and the road approaches Springerville, end of the section designated Coronado Trail. After here, once past Lyman Lake reservoir (a state park), the landscape changes quite suddenly to open, arid grasslands with patches of lava, yet the road is still generally quiet and little-traveled, and remains so all the way to I-40, which it meets a little way east of the Petrified Forest National Park.

The White Mountains Snow on the Coronado Trail Lyman Lake

Morenci Mine - view south Morenci Mine - spoil heap Morenci Mine - wide view

US 191 Switchbacks US 191 sign Edge of Willcox Playa

The NASAS Space Shuttle landing in Las Cruces in 1982.Personal family friend, Colonel Frank Borman; NASAS Astronaut and on Apollo 8. First craft to circle the moon.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Trip to the Book Store and Things that make me happy and thankful

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:21 GMT

Tonight I went to the bookstore. Decided to look around and spend some quiet time. It's been awhile since I have been to the bookstore and it was always a favorite place for Taylor and me. I have never been overwelmed by books. In fact, just the opposite; I collect books, especially antique and family books.

Tonight was different. I was looking for a certain book but wasn't sure what or what section. I wandered the aisles, taking my time to examine the shelves. There were so many topics that interested me; so many subjects I wanted to learn more about or refresh my memory. Or was I looking for something familiar? I am still not sure what I was looking for. I opted to buy another edition of Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. I have given all my copies away and needed another. I bought a book about T. Boone Pickens so I could learn more about him.

Anyway, what I decided to write about tonight is things that make me happy and thankful. They will be in no particular order; just what comes to mind. I will try to tune out Sponge Bob Square Pants, coming from the other room. I thought they were going to watch the Discovery Channels DVD on the moon. Oh well. Here goes my happy and thankful list. And please post your favorite and thankful things! I want to hear yours.

My family
My childrens' laughter
Making people smile
Freshly mopped kitchen floors with Pinesol
Hot and long baths
The feel of freshly laundered cotton against skin
The sound of my 20 year old cat purring
The sound of my children snorring in their beds
My telephone ringing and caller ID showing it's someone I like and respect
Fall/Autumn
Tulips blooming
Sipping fine tequila, chilled
Dining with friends al fresco in easy clothes around a simply decorated table with candles, fine wine, grilled lamb chops with rosemary, roasted potatoes and greens. Followed by dessert, cigars and port. Picture a Ralph Lauren advertisement, lol
Horseback riding; either Western or English in the country away from civilization
Eggs benedict on the terrace or patio with the newspaper, pot of coffee and the one I love. No words, just eating, reading and enjoying the morning
A good steak at the Texas Club in Ruidoso or a Kobe or Pedmontese cut on my grill from my friends at Arrowhead Speciality Meats
A cold Ale
Fruit tarts or cheesecake
Black and white brownies
Motivational people
Optimistic people
Thoughts of my mother and father, back when....
Travelling with Taylor
Taking the boys to Disneyland or Disneyworld
Memories of Mexico, every single trip and moment
Vanilla
Freshly painted toenails
Smell of cut grass
Snow days
Good hair days
My family treasures
Precious metals against my skin
The feel of real pearls sliding between my lips
Soft jazz on the patio with a glass of chardonnay
Overlooking the rim of the Grand Canyon
Hiking in Sedonna
Driving through Balmorhea and Ft. Davis
Golfing anywhere, including beautiful courses to pasture golf with someone special
My children's paintings from elementary school
All my children tucked in to bed
Me tucked in to bed
Emails from old friends
Pocket money in my pockets
Thoughts of going to Ireland and Spain
Fitting in to my skinny jeans
New York City
Philadelphia
Washington DC (in that order)
Santa Fe, New Mexico; shopping, eatting, hiking, galleries, skiing
Driving through the Flint Hills in Kansas
The Pitt State Gorilla logo
Tony Gonzalez
Planet Earth from space
Colonel Frank and Susan Borman (my heroes and lucky enough to call friends)
Listening to Mr. Borman tell me about how Earth looked when he flew around the moon and saw Earth while looking at a pendant he had made for Susan with diamonds encrusting one half of the pendant; all while watching a college basketball game (This made me want to call them, so I just left a message)
Tailgating at Arrowhead or Pitt State
Volleyball, especially New Mexico State University when they beat Hawaii and Franklin High in El Paso, coached by the legendary coaches Jane McCutcheon and Flo Valdez
Jack playing when his brother isn't around to bully him
Taylor's hair, it is so beautiful
Staying at my sister's and brother's house (really brother in law, but he's more my bro)
Molly the Dog (sister's dog)
Rocketships
Private planes
Performances in The Midland Theatre, downtown Kansas City

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Saving this on here, sad and hard for me to look at but wanted to keep it.

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:21 GMT

Mothers_eulogy.pdf Click on the PDF for my rough draft of the eulogy I wrote for our Mother, it will open in a different Browser.

Jacquelyn McCutcheon Richards
(February 3, 1934 - July 7, 2007)

Jacquelyn McCutcheon Richards, 73, of Las Cruces, died Saturday July 7, 2007. She was born February 3, 1934 in Pecos, Texas to Jack and Ruth McCutcheon. She had earned a B.S. Degree from Sul Ross State University. Jacquelyn was a loving wife, mother and grandmother and sister whose passion in life was for her family. She also was in a club made up of her friends who called themselves the Hobby Club. She will be forever missed by all her family and friends who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years Stephen T. “Bud” Richards of the family home; son Stephen Richards III and wife Terry of Las Cruces; daughters Jane Ann Day and husband David of Las Cruces and Carol Jean Evans and husband Tim of Overland Park, Kansas; sister Jane McCutcheon of El Paso, TX; grandchildren Christopher, Michael, Taylor, Alexandra, Tom, William and Jack and by many nieces, nephews and cousins. Her parents preceded Jacquelyn in death.

Memorial Services to celebrate Jacquelyn’s life will be at 2:00 PM on Tuesday July 10, 2007 at Getz Funeral Home with Dr. Gorton Smith of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church officiating.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Charlie Byrd, Bill Moore, Lamar Gwaltney, Larry Pickett, Delmon Hodges, Willis McCutcheon, Beau Duncan, Wallace Henderson and Kevin McGrath.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico 301 S. Church St. Ste. H, Las Cruces, NM 88001.

Guest Book for Jacquelyn McCutcheon Richards
(February 3, 1934 - July 7, 2007)




Ruby Davis Del Rio, TX July 17, 2007 2:38 PM

Sherman Monk July 16, 2007 9:01 PM		From 50+ years ago at Sul Ross. Rest in peace.

Mason Sitzes Pacific, Mo July 16, 2007 6:07 PM		Dear Bud, sorry to hear of your lost, you have my wife and my deepest sympathies. Wallace had called me, he told me that Jackie and Dick were good buddies, it gave me a closeness to your grief. Mason Sitzes

Susie Blakemore Brey Bullhead City, Arizona July 16, 2007 1:57 PM		Jane, I was so sorry to hear about Jackie. Please accept our sincerest sympathies to you and your family. I only knew Jackie from Balmorhea School and shopping at Toyahvale mercantile, but she was always so friendly and sweet. Blessings to you and your family...

Bethy Armendariz Gafner Las Cruces, New Mexico July 11, 2007 9:58 AM		Carol, I am extremely sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. God bless you (and your family)and may He give you strength during this time. Bethy (knew each other years ago and I used to work for Dr. Umberto Garcia)

Carol Allen El Paso July 11, 2007 5:17 AM		Jane, Life always seems too short, no matter how long God allows us to remain on earth. I know how much family means to you and I am so sorry for your loss. Remember the good times and be grateful that God chose you to be her sister.

Flori Jo Nunez Albuquerque, New Mexico July 10, 2007 8:07 PM		Jane, May God give you the strength to get you through this very difficult time. I am praying for each and every member of your family and send my deepest sympathies and love. Your beautiful sister was blessed to have you in her life, as I am. With much love, Flori Jo (Flo's Niece)

Jeff Imlay Overland Park, Ks July 10, 2007 4:19 PM		Carol, I am very sorry to hear about your Mother. I know she was a wonderful person from hearing you speak so fondly of her. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Jeff and Becky.

Burt Rawlings Las Cruces,NM July 10, 2007 1:34 PM		I remember Jackie as being a warm, fun and friendly person, Anne & I had many good times with she and Bud in our younger, " Party " days. My sympathy is with you, Bud and your family. Burt

richard daywood jr. webberville,texas July 10, 2007 1:04 PM		my sympathies go to the family she has left but will meet again.your dictant cousin.


Connie Vaughan El Paso, TX July 10, 2007 11:09 AM		Jane and family, My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May you find some comfort in knowing Jacquelyn is now at peace. May God keep you in the palm of his hand until you all meet again. Love and God Bless each of you. Connie Vaughan

Donna Montague Overland Park, KS July 10, 2007 9:58 AM		Carol, I am so sorry for you loss. May God bless you with wonderful memories and reflections at this time of great personal sorrow. I am keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Love and God Bless, Donna

Mark and Julie Lambertz Overland Park, KS July 10, 2007 8:34 AM		Carol Jean, Our love and thoughts go out to you and your family at this time. May God Bless and Keep you at peace during these difficult days. Our prayers are with you. In Him, Mark and Julie Lambertz

Dr. Ralph E. Harold, M.D. and family Overland Park, KS July 10, 2007 7:49 AM		Carol Jean Evans: I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Our family will be remembering and thinking of you.

Sally Knight Roswell, N.M. July 9, 2007 11:11 PM		Jane and family, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I'm thinking about you during this most difficult time. Sally Knight

Mary Faith Nunez Roswell, New Mexico July 9, 2007 7:50 PM		Jane we are deeply saddened by your loss. Our prayers are with you. Love, Mary Faith Nunez (Flo's niece)

Mr. and Mrs. Paul Landes Independence, MO July 9, 2007 2:56 PM		Our deepest sympathy to all of Mrs. Richards family and friends. May you know Peace as we know that Mrs. Richards is now in the holiest of places in the presence of our Lord and Savior. We only know of Mrs. Richards through her wonderful daughter Carol Jean Evans and oh how we are sure that Mrs. Richards lives on as the song says "in her daughters eyes". May the Lord Bless and keep all of you in this time of loss. Love, Paul & Jacquie Landes Julie Brown

Jaymie Weiner Olathe, Kansas July 9, 2007 12:00 PM		May the wonderful memories of your mother’s love be with you and comfort you at this time. With Deepest Sympathy

Jim Foley Albuquerque July 9, 2007 10:23 AM		Bud, I am so sorry about Jacquie's passing that was so sudden and shocking. God rest her soul and may she enjoy the peace that has eluded her for so long. I know you will feel the loss of a constant companion. Eloisa and I have long been admirer's of the patience, care and love you have rendered to her for so long. God bless you and her soul. Jim

Debbie Pickett-Ramsey Plano, Texas July 9, 2007 9:39 AM		Bud - My thoughts & prayers are with you - Jacquie was a very neat lady that I enjoyed knowing. God Bless You and your family.

BARBARA CAROL RICHARDS GREAT FALLS, MONTANA July 9, 2007 8:52 AM		Uncle Bud, Janeann, Steve and Caroljean Your Mother had the biggest heart and best hugs a niece could never forget. My last visit with her in Potosi about 4 years ago, was nothing but a great conversation and laughter and advice. Aunt Jackie will be missed! I love you and hope we get together soon! Barbara Carol WE are leaving Montana soon and will be heading to Florida, but in the mean time, my phone # is (406) 964-8528 XXXXXXXOOOOOOOO I Love YOU ALL!!!

Tom and Rose Manning and Family Santa Fe N M July 9, 2007 8:49 AM		Bud, Jane Ann and Family, Heard about Jacquelyn's passing and want to extend our deepest sympathies to you at this most difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers our with you. God Bless you all, Tom,Rose,Lisa,David, and Mark Manning

Doug & Carolyn Conklin ( Flo's neice) Wickenburg, Arizona July 8, 2007 9:33 PM		Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Doug & Carolyn Conklin ( Flo's Neice)

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Taylor is 17 years old

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:20 GMT

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Halloween 2008

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:19 GMT

A few Halloween pictures to share. The boys are Pirates and Tim is Captain Hook. Nancy came by and she was a clown

Pictures from Jack's class

This is Jack! Love the dreadlocks!

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Thanksgiving 2008

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:18 GMT

This Thanksgiving we went back to Braymer, Missouri to be with the Evans family. Here are a few pictures I took with my mobile phone.

Three William Evans!

Three William Evans and a Jack!

Drew and Uncle Bill

Karen and Drew

Larry, my father in law talking about our family

Gayle, Larry and Karen

Jack and me

William, Jack and me

William doing his Gene Simmons impression, me and Jack

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Words of Wisdom

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:18 GMT

Our lives are not determined by what happens to us but by how we react to what happens, not by what life brings to us, but by the attitude we bring to life. A positive attitude causes a chain reaction of positive thoughts, events, and outcomes. It is a catalyst, a spark that creates extraordinary results.

I Believe...

That we are responsible for what

we do, no matter how we feel.

"Life is short. Forgive quickly. Kiss slowly. Love truly. Laugh
uncontrollably. And never regret anything that makes you smile."

I Believe...

That just because two people argue,

it doesn't mean they don't love each other.

And just because they don't argue,

it doesn't mean they do love each other.

The best and most beautiful things of this world can't be seen or touched. They must be felt by our heart.

I Believe...

That no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt

you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that.

He who laughs last, thinks slowest.

I Believe...

That it's taking me a long time

to become the person I want to be.

I Believe...

That you should always leave loved ones with

loving words. It may be the last time you see them.

I Believe...

That you can keep going long after you think you can't.

You pass this way only once so enjoy it while you can; Live A Lot, Laugh A Lot and Love A Lot!

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Christmas 2008

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:17 GMT

Merry Christmas!!!

We started off our celebration on December 23 with an Open House for the family at our home on Century Lane. It was bitter sweet because Taylor could not be with us as she was in New Mexico. We had lots of love and conversation with Susan, Paul, Garrett, Joliana, Ryan, Julie, Kevin, Kelsey, Kristin, Evan, Elizabeth, Eion, Bill, Karen, Carrie, Eric, Alex, Tommy, neighbors Denny and Jamie, and my friend Deanna. We ate casually, from the kitchen counter, a wonderful cut of sirloin roast from my friends at Arrowhead Speciality Meats; John and Elaine Telge. Again, we choose the Pedmontese beef. Lots of wine was drank and conversations were great.

Christmas Eve, we hung out around the house and I ran a few errands. We met Larry and Gayle at Community Christian Church, which is a church designed by the world renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. I have to admit, he is a better home designer than church designer. The acoustics are fabulous though. It was a children's service and was beautiful. You can see the church at their website, http://www.community-christian.org/flwright.htm

We came home afterwards and had a difficult time getting the boys to stay in bed. They were so excited for Santa to come.

Christmas morning, the boys woke up about 8:30 and ran downstairs before I could put my feet on the floor, much less my contact lens' in my eyes to see. They saw the Wii first and kept screaming "a Wii!" The boys and Tim are playing the Wii still. I crept away to write this and will have to come back to finish in a bit.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Is it really March already?!

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:16 GMT

Woah, how did it get to be March 8, 2009? Kind of leaves me speechless, which is not like me.

Daylight Savings Time started today. I am not a big fan of it for one simple reason, the kids stay up later on school nights because of the sun being up. They should have DST around the school schedule. But, it is good for baseball practice and playing/hanging out in the backyard.

This winter has seemed long and extra cold. Not much snow, but we did have four inches of it last weekend. My tulips and daffodils have started to come up; so spring isn't too far away. Yea!

William and I spent a few weeks in El Paso and Las Cruces over the holidays. We stayed at Tita's and had a great time. Then went over to Jane Ann and Dave's for the remainder of the trip. We drove the mini-van so we could bring back a few antiques of mom and dad's that were in storage. We are thrilled to have them, and I need to inventory them on my master list.

Dad is living with Steve. It's sad to see dad have dementia and still can't believe mom is gone (physically). Kind of humorous to see Steve and Dad together. Maybe it's good dad can't remember some things about Steve in his younger years; because paybacks can be a b!tch. William, Dad, Steve and I went to an NMSU basketball game together, and dad griped the entire drive there and back about Steve's driving. I had to laugh, it was funny. Steve handled it pretty well. Dad can't drive per the doctors orders and I know it's difficult to give that independence up. I didn't see as much of dad as I wanted but his patience isn't very good. He is lost without taking care of mom, and this next chapter of his life.

Taylor is finishing off her senior year in Las Cruces with Jim at LCHS. She spent about 50% of her high school years in Olathe Public Schools in Kansas, and the rest at LCHS. She isn't sure about where she wants to go to college but talks about NMSU, ASU, UMKC and Johnson County Community College here in Overland Park. Since she skipped a grade early on, I am not in a hurry for her to go to college at 17, like I did. Way too young to move out and experience life; especially in today's times.

Jack is doing great and he is growing too fast. He is the baby and sooo cute! Seeing him get on the bus every morning is adorable. He is a peer model in the developmentally challenged program at our local elementary school. The short bus comes to our house and picks him up. The bus driver is the same one William had in the program, Gary. When the bus gets here at 7:45ish, whomever sees it first shouts out, "Gary's here!". Jack puts his back pack on, and if it's cold, he has his coat on, and he walks slowly to the bus. It's a mental picture we will never forget and it's just as cute now as it was the first day. Ms. Melissa says Jack is a model student. He's not as talkative as William and listens more than speaks. As a peer model, he could probably be a bit more outgoing for the kids. Jack is in the morning class and here is a link to their website http://teachers.olatheschools.com/mthomaswg/

William just finished his first basketball season and loved it. Baseball is his natural sport, but he caught on to basketball. He is going to start baseball soon, and will be on the same team as last year. They have 7 lefties, which I think is unusual to have so many on one team. Friday was a beautiful day, and Tim took the boys out to Sunflower to play golf. He said they played great, especially considering they haven't been able to play since fall. William is doing great in kindergarten. His teacher says he even has wonderful manners. YEAH! A mother always worried about her child's manners. He's reading and it seems like that happened overnight. William rides the big kids bus and it gets here about 8ish. Kinders sit towards the front of the bus.

This took longer than I thought with all the interuptions from the kids. Will try to post more often!

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Another day in my life

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:14 GMT

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for Winnie, Darlin & Alvin, so they can run and play together as a family once again. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and they are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; even Sam, Bubba, Max, Frisky, Ruff, Dickens and Thebeau . Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they miss those very special to them, many who had to be left behind. But there is one person there for them, one very loving and caring person, Mima. Mima is there to pet them, enjoy the sun, and see that they are loved. Mom is waiting for us all to join her one day; after we have all lived our lifes completely and fully. Mom is pain free and the beautiful woman we remember, no faults or illness.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. Her bright eyes are intent. Her eager body quivers. Suddenly she begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, her legs carrying her faster and faster. Winnie has never experienced the grass, the trees, or the butterflies twittering above. Alvin shows her the way, while Darlin enjoys the cool breeze as she bathes in the sunlight. Winnie finds her brother, Max, and he helps her along while Alvin and Winnie watch their kittens play together again. Max tells Winnie of a secret place they can go to find white albacore tuna, just like they had for their first tastes of food.

You have been spotted, and when you and Winnie Cat finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress her beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of Winnie, Alvin and Darlin, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Written on Wednesday · Comment · Like Unlike

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Carol Jean Richards Evans at 10:57pm April 15

Winnie Cat is 21 years old and not doing well. Prayers for not suffering would be appreciated. She was born in my closet when I was in college. I had her mother and father too. She has been with me all of my adult years. I joke that I am glad she can't talk. However right this moment, I wish I could have a long talk with her. She see's the vet in the morning. I'm scared.

Laura Anderson at 11:00pm April 15

Prayers for you and Winnie Cat!

Carol Jean Richards Evans at 11:02pm April 15

Last week I asked the vet, "who was his oldest cat" and replied, "Winnie Evans." I asked, "who is your oldest patient?" Dr. Gilmore replied again, "Winnie Cat".

Martha Colson Akers at 11:04pm April 15

saying prayers for Winnie...and you!

Susan Evans Canaan at 8:51am April 16

Believe me, I know how hard it is to lose a beloved pet. Hold her and reassure her. Saying a prayer for your little friend and you.

Carol Jean Richards Evans at 11:28am April 16

Winnie passed away in my arms peacefully this morning. I am so grateful for the 21 years she gave me of unconditional love. It's those that are left behind that need to be comforted. By the way, Jesus has a sense of humor. Winnie is a long haired cat and shed all over me from me hugging and holding her. I had cat hair everywhere. When Tim and I left her and got in the car, a lint brush was sitting on the floorboard of the car. Oh that Jesus, he cracks me up.

Lisa Lowe Gaw at 12:07pm April 16

CJ, I'm so sorry! We lost Elmo (our 13 y.o. tabby) in September, and I know how you feel. (and I still find cat hair on my clothes, LOL)

Indy Hames at 12:08pm April 16

hugs & kisses to you carol. keely and i will blow kisses to winnie, who is up in kitty heaven jumping on clouds made of yarn.

Ceci Galban at 1:36pm April 16

big hugs and prayers for you and winne, carol jean.

Martha Colson Akers at 2:31pm April 16

I'm sorry for your loss... May Winnie rest in peace now.

Carol Jean Richards Evans at 4:35pm April 16

The first thing I do when I go home from the office is look for Winnie to check on her. BooHoo! I know she's at peace, and not suffering. It's just sad for us; even William cried. He kissed her goodbye before he left for school this morning. He liked to feed her canned cat food every night.

Emily Montoya-Viramontes at 4:55pm April 16

I am so sorry to hear of your beloved Winnie. She sounds like such a special loved family member. I know there aren't words that can really give you comfort, but Winnie will always be in your heart and that will give you peace and will put smiles on your face when you think of something she did.

Suzanne Williams Kammann at 10:35pm April 16

I am so sorry for this sad loss. 21 years is amazing lifespan for Miss Winnie... I came upon the Rainbow Bridge recently while scrapping with some friends and it is sooooo beautiful. I do hope all of you find comfort and I am a true believer that she is with you and made sure the lint brush was handy for you. All my love,
Suzanne

Marsha Kent at 12:34am April 17

Carol, I know how hard it is to lose a pet / family member. After that long, you bet they're a family member. It will be an adjustment & believe me, I'm working on adjustments myself. When you are used to certain little someone's (even with 4 paws) being there and then they're gone is very different. But you and I both know God will give the ... Read Morestrength and comfort needed to make those changes and get through. Sorry, but that IS funny / sweet about the lint brush. Just goes to show how much we really do matter. Take care!!!!

Carol Jean Richards Evans at 6:56am April 17

Thanks everyone! Your posts mean a lot to me. I looked for her first thing when i got home, and again this morning. Old habits 'die' hard. Hmm, is that where that saying comes from? I tweaked the Rainbow Bridge poem a bit, it's such a beautiful poem and I came across it when Jane Ann's precious Sam passed away.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Disclosing Our Souls on the Internet

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:13 GMT

Do we disclose our personal lives too much today? We have instant messenger, Facebook, Twitter, My Space, Flickr, Digsby, Linked In......... I just googled my name, Carol Jean Evans and my information came up 9 out of the first 10 responses. Anyone with an internet connection can access my resume, personal life, relatives, photos, and even a map directing them turn by turn to my house (including pictures of my home).

With just a quick click, I can see the latitude and longitude, as well as feet about sea level of our house.

View Larger Map

Recently, I had an experience where someone sent unkind and unnecessary messages to my relatives. I am not sure of their motive but it was obviously to cause pain. People can take 10% of the truth and twist it to where they want it. What is sad is that people believe what they read. Why? Why don't people come to the person and ask for themselves. I have had one person come to me and tell me. I suppose it shows that even though we lay out our heart & soul to others; people like to hear the gossip and choose to believe that over real people and the truth.

I have a lot more to say about this, and will finish this at another time. I have a lot on my mind and it's starting to scatter. I know I miss my Taylor and my mom right now. Blessings to all

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

Thanksgiving Tree & Christmas Decorations

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:13 GMT

Well, it's that time of year again. Decorating time. Not sure if I have ever been this overwelmed before. I am a month late with the Thanksgiving tree. The Christmas tree is up, but only decorated with lights and ribbon. I stare at the storage containers with all our treasures inside and wonder if I stare long enough, they will become truly magical and float to the perfect spot in which they belong.

Let me explain the Thanksgiving tree. When my Mom died, July 7, 2007, I felt empty. Of course I did, it's only natural when your Mother dies; her child to feel empty. Then I thought about all the family that has passed before Mother; Granddaddy Jack, Grandmother, Ma, Granddad Steve, Cookie, Uncle Ed, Aunt Jeanne, and all the other people I have come to know through my geneology research. I decided we needed a Thanksgiving tree. Thankful for bringing such wonderful, graceful, and truly passionate relatives into our lifes. Each person I named has a distinct attribute about them and only can imagine what Grandpa John from Ireland was like in 1720.

It's not only family, but friends as well. I give thanks for Howard, Debbie Clark, Mark Sutherlin, Paul Benavidez, Ricky Alba, Mr. Harris, Mr. Salopek, Pancho, Bill Moore and the list goes on and on.

In addition, it's not just about who has passed in our lives. It's also about who we have passed in living our lifes. Who has crossed our path and meant something to us, whether they realize it or not? Some are still in our life and some have moved on. That's ok, we all have missions in life; we just don't know what that mission is until we meet our Lord.

Now, for those storage boxes of decorations; they are staring back at me. I give up. Tomorrow will be here soon enough. Besides it's not what is in the boxes; it's what is inside that counts.

With blessings to all,
Carol Jean

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Christmas 2009

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:13 GMT

The deep sigh of satisfaction, relief, & contentment for just awhile; enjoy it while I feel it. Happy Birthday, Jesus! Today is a great day.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

McCutcheon Memorial Services for Willis McCutcheon and Lee McCutcheon 2010

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:12 GMT

McCutcheon Memorial in Ft. Davis Cemetary 2010 from Carol Jean Evans on Vimeo.

The Texas Rangers and Daughters of the Republic of Texas honoring Willis McCutcheon and Lee McCutcheon.

NOTE: I did not realize that 3/4 way through the video, the audio makes a clicking sound. I will try to upload it again, and see if the audio is better. If anyone knows how to reduce the wind sound, let me know! I have some professional computer video/audio techie friends, but hesitant to ask them how to reduce the background noise.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

"What We Expect to See"

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:11 GMT

"What We Expect to See"

Do you know what a self-fulfilling prophecy is? If you do, do you know how it works?

Most people know that a self-fulfilling prophecy is an event, which, because it is predicted and expected, is therefore more likely to happen, and even be caused to happen.

Here's one of my favorite examples. According to "Success Magazine," two different groups of psychologists were asked to observe the same child at play. One group was told beforehand that the child was emotionally disturbed. The other group was told that the child was a genius. When the psychologists were asked to report on their observations, each group had found evidence to support their preconceived ideas.

Now, it is important to realize that self-fulfilling prophecies are everyday experiences - not just laboratory experiments. What do you expect your day to be like when you get up in the morning? How do you expect your kids to behave? How much success do you expect for yourself?

If you predict failure, failure is generally what you'll find, and if you expect excellence, excellence is very likely what you'll see. How we think about a situation determines how we behave, and how we behave, more than anything else, determines the results we get.

That's how self-fulfilling prophecies work - there is nothing magical about it. What you get in life is pretty much what you think and believe coming back at you. So, what do you expect for tomorrow?

Lou Tice
The Pacific Institute
www.thepacificinstitute.com

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

My Great-Great Grandmother, Catherine Cynthia Overton Jennings

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:11 GMT

Gordon C. Jennings

1782-1836

Born in Windham, Connecticut, the eldest son of a Revolutionary War soldier, Gordon C. Jennings moved to Missouri in the early 1820s. There he met and married a young woman with two children from previous marriages, Catherine Cynthia Overton Avery McCutcheon. Four more children were born to the couple, and desiring free land in Texas, Gordon took his family, and along with his brothers, moved to Bastrop, Stephen F. Austin's "Little Colony," in 1833.

Incensed that the Mexican government had, among other things, failed to provide a system of public education, trial by jury, and freedom of religion, Texans revolted. Further enticed by the promise of land grant compensations, Gordon enlisted in the Texas militia in July of 1835 under Captain R.M. (Three-Legged Willie) Williamson in the command of Col. John H. Moore. In December, Gordon re-enlisted under Colonel William B. Travis. At the Alamo, Gordon, as the oldest soldier there, could have left without taint to his reputation, but he elected to stay to the end. As a corporal in Captain William R. Carey's artillery company, Gordon was probably manning the artillery when following a thirteen day siege, the Mexican army, after being hurled back twice by furious artillery and rifle fire, stormed the garrison. At the end of an hour and a half of brutal hand-to-hand combat, Gordon and his fellow soldiers lay dead. Later that month, Gordon's brother Charles would die at the massacre at Goliad.

His contemporaries regarded Gordon Jennings as a kind, respectable man--a man who only wanted to provide a better place for his family. He did that and more, leaving behind a legacy of bravery that will endure as long as the spirit of the Alamo lives in the hearts of men.

Catherine Cynthia Overton Jennings

1790-1867

Born in Perquimans County, North Carolina, at age 18, Catherine Overton married seaman Vinson Avery, and her sister Alice married his brother Frederick. Catherine and Vinson had one son, Willis, but Vinson died at sea soon after their marriage. Desiring to be near her sister and brother-in-law, Catherine and Willis joined a wagon train for Tennessee. There she married William McCutcheon and bore two more sons, William and Collin. The marriage was not a happy one, however, and ended in divorce six years later. Catherine took her two oldest boys and once again followed her sister and brother-in-law, this time to Missouri. In Lincoln County, she met and married Gordon C. Jennings. Four children were born to them there, but the lure of Texas was strong, and in 1833, the blended family traveled three months through Arkansas, Nacogdoches, and on to the town of Bastrop, or Mina, as it was called then. Situated on the banks of the Colorado River, Bastrop was constantly beset by Indians who raided and plundered, and many nights Catherine and her family listened to the screams of war whoops.

Catherine lost her husband Gordon at the Alamo. Her sons William and Willis were Texas "Mina Volunteers" with Captain Jesse Billingsley, and Willis fought at the Battle of San Jacinto. An uncommon woman in so many ways during her lifetime, Catherine died at the age of 99 at the home of her son, William McCutcheon, in Williamson County

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

OLDEST HERO AT THE ALAMO: GORDON JENNINGS

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:11 GMT

OLDEST HERO AT THE ALAMO: GORDON JENNINGS OF CONNECTICUT

Gordon C. Jennings was born in May 1782 in Windham, Connecticut, the eldest son of Joseph and Ruth (Cartwright) Jennings. Joseph had served in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War and traced his line to the Joshua Jennings’ family, which first settled in Hartford in the 1630s. A farmer, Gordon was among the first pioneers to settle in Troy, Missouri (outside St. Louis) in the early 1820s. In 1833, he and a brother moved with their families to Bastrop, Texas (near present-day Austin). Later, encouraged by the promise of land grant compensation, Gordon enlisted in the Texas militia on July 25, 1835 under Capt. R.M. Williamson in the command of Col. John H. Moore. On December 13, 1835, Gordon re-enlisted, this time under Col. William B. Travis.

As Texas colonists became increasingly discontented with the Mexican Government they were obligated to serve, Travis moved his regiment to the Alamo mission in January 1836 and awaited reinforcements. Gordon Jennings, a corporal, was probably manning the artillery positions when Santa Anna’s army arrived on February 23 and surrounded the crumbling church and outer lying buildings. After a thirteen-day siege, on March 6 at daybreak, 4000 Mexican infantry and dragoons mounted their final assault. They attacked in three columns, simultaneously hitting a breach in the north wall, the chapel and, a third scaling the west barrier. Hurled back twice by furious artillery and rifle fire, the Mexicans finally stormed the garrison with ladders and overran those 189 Texas militiamen. Room by room “was carried at the point of a bayonet. When the brutal hand-to-hand fighting subsided ninety minutes later, the gallant defenders lay dead. Legendary frontiersman and erstwhile populist congressman, David Crockett and six others, cornered in the church, were the last killed. Santa Anna ordered all the bodies burned, but his commanders were stunned by the ferocity of the Texans’ resistance. The Mexicans suffered more than 1,600 casualties in the assault – the flower of Santa Anna’s army.

(Painting: Fall of the Alamo by Robert Onderdonk, Courtesy of Friends of the Governor's Mansion.)

FAMOUS BATTLE SCENE -- Davy Crockett and his Tennessee boys shown in desperate combat at the Alamo.

In a cruel irony, Charles B. Jennings, Gordon’s brother (or cousin) was killed at the Goliad massacre later that month. Alamo and Goliad became rallying cries for Texas freedom, and years later the Jennings family heirs received 1,280 acres for each hero – reflecting their service and ultimate sacrifice. Gordon’s son, Samuel Jennings (1828-1881), became a prosperous stockman in the cattle business – and Gordon’s daughter, Catherine (1826-1911), became a legend in her own right. As a ten-year-old, Catherine had ridden bareback many miles to warn her neighbors of the advancing Mexican army – and thus, “the Ride of Katy Jennings” became regarded for Texas as a kind of Paul Revere’s ride.

The copyright in this website and the material on this website is owned by Carol Jean Evans.

JOURNAL OF PETER AUDRAIN, Esq.

Carol@CarolJeanEvans.com (Carol Jean Evans) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:49:11 GMT

(Presented to the Michigan Historical Society, March 26th, 1838.)
MEMORANDUM

Pittsburg, June, 179x

Fort Defiance—Four loaves of bread, 5 cents each; 12 pounds of beef.

Fort Miami, August 9, 1796—Forty pounds of flour, 81 pounds of beef.

Greenville, July 26, 1796—General Wilkin's [Wilkinson] wagon contains 1 quarter cask wine, 1 10-gallon keg brandy, 1 small keg of brown sugar, 1 keg of loaf sugar and coffee, 1 10-gallon keg with biscuit [biskett], 2 trunks.

For Capt. Heath.—1 10 gallon keg of sugar, 2 trunks, 2 mess boxes.

Left Fort Washington on 19th of July, 1796, at 11 o'clock A. M.; arrived the same evening at Fort Hamilton; distance, 26 miles.

The country is very fine and thickly settled both sides of the road; amazing large fields planted with Indian corn; crops of grain and hay have been abundant; cattle fat and large size. The road in general very good and pretty level.

20.

It rained hard the whole day. We remained at Fort Hamilton and were very politely entertained by Major Cass, commanding officer there.

A town has been laid out here by Mr. Ludlow; great many pretty good log houses. It lies on the bank of the big Miami.

21.

We sett off this morning at 9 o'clock and arrived at Fort St. Clair at 6 in the afternoon. This is a small Fort guarded by a sergeant and 12 privates; distance, 25 miles.

The first six miles from Fort Hamilton the land is uncommonly fine; afterwards it is beachy land of inferior quality, the road swampy and bad, no good water to be got; there is but one good spring at about 14 miles from Fort Hamilton; no settlement on the road, not even a single cabin.

2''

Left this at 5 o'clock in the morning and arrived at Fort Jefferson at half after 12; distance, 20 miles: halted there for an hour and proceeded to Greenville, where we arrived at four o'clock; distance o\U miles.

The road is swampy and bad to For,t Jefferson, and very fine from thence to Greenville.

>>"<> settlement on the road at all; very little or no good water, except at Jefferson, where it is excellent.

Fort Jefferson stands upon an eminence and commands a beautiful prospect; it is small, but neat, and has but a sergeant's command.

Greenville is also in a fine situation, although not so high. The fort is on a very large scale, of a square form; the outside pickets contain about a mile square. The garrison is small, of about 120 men, not more than half fit for service. This fort will probably be evacuated in a short time. Col. Strong, who commands here, is ordered to go and take the command of Fort Wayne, about 79 miles from this place, and will leave here but 50 men, most of them invalids.

This fort stands in an advantageous position with respect to forage, being between two large prairies where any quantity of hay can be got. ,

Remained at Fort Greenville the 23d, 24th, 25th, 26th, and 27th, waiting for the Commander-in-Chief.

On the 27th in the morning arrived here Mr. Winthrop Sargent, Deputy Governor, who is to accompany General Wayne to Detroit, in order to establish there the civil authority.

On the 24th General Wilkinson left this place for Fort Washington with his lady and suite, from whence he is to proceed to Philadelphia via Pittsburgh.

On the same day Mr. Allison, chief surgeon of the army, set off for Fort Washington with his lady and suite.

Number of Indians are here from different nations begging for bread and clothing.

Remained at Greenville the 28th and 29th, the Commander-in-Chief not being ready and a little indisposed.

On the 30th left Greenville at 11 o'clock, and arrived between 4 and 5 at Fort Lorimier, distance 25 miles, a small fort commanded by Capt. E. Butler. The road swampy and bad.

31.

Left Lorimier at 3 o'clock p. M., and arrived at St. Mary at 6; distance eleven and three quarters miles.

August 1.

Left St. Mary for Fort Defiance at 6 A. M., passed the Tawas Towers at 12, and came to encampment 12 miles farther. August 2, continued in the wilderness and came to encampment on the bank of Grand Glaise, 19 miles

from Fort Defiance. The distance from. Fort Lorimier to Defiance, 74 miles.

Aug. 3.

Arrived at Fort Defiance at 12 o'clock. The road is along the river Au Glaize for a considerable distance and is pretty good.

Fourth and fifth of August remained at Defiance, commanded by Major Wilson of the cavalry. Here Grand Glaise empties itself into the Miami of the Lake and loses its name.

5 Aug.

Left Fort Defiance at 11 o'clock A. jr., and embarked in a Kentucky boat, 7 large pyrogues to go down the Miami as far as the foot of the rapids, having sent all our horses by land.

6 Aug.

We floated down all last night, and the current was so low that we did not go more than nine miles. We passed five riffles extraordinarily low, and arrived at the celebrated Voched about half after 6 in the evening in camp about one mile above Fort Deposit.

Took our horses and rode to Fort Miami—distance about 7 miles. As we came down we viewed the battle ground of the 20th of August, 17J)4. Gen. Wayne described every position of his army, every movement, and all the particulars of the action. Arrived at Fort Miami about 12 o'clock at noon.

Fort Miami, formerly occupied by the British, and commanded by Major Campbell at the time of the action, is situated on a high ground at the foot of the rapids, and commands the most elegaut view up and down the Miami river and over the prairies, which are large and beautiful. The command of the garrison consists in a captain, a subaltern, and J50 or (JO privates. We encamped below the fort on the eminence level with the fort.

Here are two stores for Indian trade kept by two Scotchmen, Anderson & McDonnall; their prices are behind any reason.

The different falls from Fort Defiance are ten or twelve in number, and most of them very dangerous, the water not being deeper than three or four inches in many places. Our boat had to be dragged over stones and rocks, and was so thatched that two men were kept constantly busy in bailing her, and an hour after she was unloaded she sunk. The country is rich and fine; most of the Indians, which were numerous and settled at Rodre-de-Cout, [Roche de Bout], are gone with the British: but few are coming back now and then, finding themselves deceived by the English.

8. Remained in our encampment.

Tuesday, Aug. 9, 1797. Remained in the encampment, and busy in preparing keel boats to go down the river and across the lake to Detroit. The distance from here to the lake eighteen miles, across the lake thirty-six miles, and by river Detroit to the Fort eighteen miles.

Wednesday, 10. Dined early in camp, and got on board at three o'clock r. M.; came down to Swan Creek, about twelve miles.

Thursday, 11.

Got under way early and came up the bay to .

Friday, 12. Got under way and came to River Raisin.

Saturday, Aug. 13.
Came up part of River Detroit and encamped within three leagues of the
Fort, at the Indian settlement of the Hurons.

Sunday.
[End of the Manuscript.]

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The First National Bank of Santa Fe	Old building near the railway station	Dried chillies


Jewelry sellers at the Palace of the Governors	Richards Avenue	The Plaza


View from Guadalupe Peak	Mule deer in McKittrick Canyon	Grotto in McKittrick Canyon


View south over El Capitan	Along the Guadalupe Peak trail	McKittrick Creek


McKittrick Creek	Upper McKittrick Canyon	Approach to the park from the east


A narrow section of Closed Canyon	Passageway in Closed Canyon


Queue for The Alamo	Plants in the Alamo gardens	Mission Concepción


Bridge on the Apache Trail	Canyon Lake Marina	The Apache Trail


Camping by Peralta Road	La Barge Canyon	Narrows of La Barge Creek


Morenci Mine - view south	Morenci Mine - spoil heap	Morenci Mine - wide view