Life as a Milshelb Mom is crazy, hectic, and FUN... it's mostly full of LOVE... love for a MilShelb who make my world go 'round.

Saturday, December 25, 2010

Merry Christmas to the Man of My Dreams

Jake,
It's been quite a year hasn't it? We've had so many changes... too many twists and turns to even count. This time last year neither of us had jobs, I had little hope, and yet, here we are. What an amazing year it's been.

I cannot being to express how blessed I feel to have you in my life. You are such an amazing man. You have kept me strong. You have kept my feet on the ground and kept me living in reality. You have kept me going... a tough job many days. You are my rock.

I remember the night I met you. I thought to myself, "well, here goes nothing. What have you gotten yourself into now?" I was really unsure... and now I am really happy. I got myself into the best thing that has ever happened to me. Hands down.

So, I want to thank you for the things you've done for me this year. Thank you for moving away from our home for me to take a job I wanted. Thank you for helping me move into my classroom. Thank you for supporting me through all of the ups and downs that have come our way this year. You know, there is a song about that and it says, "God gave me you for the ups and downs. God gave me you for the days of doubt." That's so true. God gave me you. I am so glad He did. Thank you for your positive attitude. thank you for reality checks. Thank you for being a MilShelb Dad and loving them as much as I do... maybe even more (if that's possible). Thank you for loving and caring about my family and friends. Thank you for always putting me and "us" first. Thank you for having priorities. Thank you for being someone that I love to come home to. Thank you for loving me... me... just as I am.

I love you, Jake. I've loved you from the first night I met you and I will love you forever.

Merry Christmas, Jake. I am looking forward to starting another New Year with you!

Friday, December 24, 2010

Merry Christmas MilShelb

MilShelb,
You are my life. You keep me sane. You make me smile when my day was awful. You make me laugh when all I want to do is cry. You greet me at the door and say, "leave all that stuff out there. Come in and love us!" You keep my priorities straight.
I never knew I could love someone as much as I love the two of you. I never knew I'd meet someone who could change my attitude so much just by being who they are. I never knew how much my heart could ache when someone else was sick, hurt... but it does when you are. I never knew what a difference you would make in my life. I am so glad we have you both.
Thank you for loving me. Thank you for always being excited to see me. Thank you for your cuddling. Thank you for your warning barks. Thank you for being so silly and fun.
I love you, Milshelb. I love being a MilShelb Mom.
Merry Christmas, my babies. Merry Christmas.

Saturday, December 18, 2010

Late Post

The 16th was my husband's birthday. He is so old. lol (Not really. He's exactly 12 days older than me... and I am young. lol) So, anyhow, I was planning to do a post for him on his birthday, but life got in the way. So, here's his birthday post.

Jake,
Holy cow! Another birthday. Another year I've known you and you've improved my life. How do you do it? Never cease to amaze me. You are awesome. Happy Birthday to you, a wonderful man that I am blessed to share my life with.
I love you, Jake.



Monday, December 6, 2010

On My Soap Box

Allow me to vent a bit.
I am tired.
I am not feeling well.
I am worn out.
I am burnt out.
I am tired of people telling me how to do my job when they don't have a clue.
I am tired of people adding their 2 cents to things where I'd rather them just butt-out.
I am sick of people telling me their opinion. It is not welcomed or appreciated.
I am tired of being sick.
I am sick of being tired.
I sleep 8 or more hours a night. I do not need more sleep. I need less stress.
I want to spend my money on me.
I want to buy my husband nice things.
I do not have enough money.
I do not believe there is ever such a thing as "enough" money.
I am counting down to Christmas break.
I am counting down to summer break (lol).
I am tired.
Did I mention I am tired?
I want paper in the copier when I go there.
I want to know about things ahead of time.
I want people to talk to me like their equal and not like an idiot.
I am tired of being treated like I just fell off the turnip truck.
I realize all of these sentences are about me. 
Too bad.
I am tired.
I am tired of repeating myself 300,000 times a day.
I want to change my name.
I am tired of tattling.
I am tired.

Now to change modes... and be more positive.
I am thankful.
I am thankful for a roof over my head.
I am thankful for food to eat and clothes to wear.
I am thankful for my family.
I am thankful for my friends.
I am thankful for my husband and the MilShelb.
I am thankful for my job.
I am thankful for my kids (students).
I am thankful for people who help me.
I am thankful for people who guide me.
I am thankful for people who love me.
I am thankful that people care.
I am thankful.
I am thankful for heat in my house in the winter.
I am thankful for cool air in my house in the summer.
I am thankful for Milly.
I am thankful for Shelby.
I am thankful for sweet doggy kisses and cuddles.
I am thankful for people who know me and love me anyhow.
I am thankful.


Monday, November 29, 2010

It's No Big Secret



It's no big secret... I love my husband. I really really do. I am his biggest fan. I think he is amazing. He is generous, loving, funny, goofy, brilliant... all sort of good things. Maybe what you don't know is that I believe that God sent him to me. He and I were made for each other. God gave me him for the ups and downs. God gave me him for the days of doubt. God gave me a wonderful man to share my life with. I am blessed to be his wife.
You know what's funny? People don't get us. We're not your typical lovie-dovie, mooshy-smooshy, kissy-huggy couple. That's not us. We're not attached at the hip. We don't feel the need to ask permission for things. We don't have to hang out constantly. We live our lives exactly as we want and it just works. It works perfectly for us. People think we're odd. They think it's strange... but it really doesn't bother either one of us because we know that we love each other. We know that our relationship is solid and strong. We trust each other. More than one person has said to me that we seem more like roommates than husband and wife. I see their point. It's true, I suppose, because we do not have the typical relationship. The thing is that people just do not understand. Someone else recently said that you just have to do what is best for your marriage and forget what others think. That's so true. I love Jake. I know that God sent him to me because I need him. I am independent and I love to do things on my own. I love to work things out alone and I hate having to check in with someone. I love a simple goodnight text if I'm not home yet and not a million minute phone call. I love being able to just look at Jake and know with all of my heart that that man loves me more than he loves himself. I don't need other people to approve of our relationship. God approves. I approve. Jake approves. As far as I'm concerned, that's all the matters.

Sunday, November 28, 2010

It's Amazing... or Is It?

It's amazing what a little church can do for a person. I'll admit it- I have not been going to church like I should since I moved back to Columbia. However, I have gone for the last three (yes, three) Sundays in a row. How great it is to go to church and learn about God and praise Him and thank Him for the many blessings in my life. How great it is to know that God (the one, true, awesome, wonderful God) loves me... me... a sinner. 


I know that some people do not believe that God sends you places and they rely on the idea of coincidence. I don't believe in coincidence. God sends me places and puts people in my life for a reason. Nothing is a mistake in God's world. Everything is part of a bigger plan. Anyhow, the first Sunday, I'm tellin' ya, the preacher was preaching directly to me. And, do you know what that told me? That told me that God was saying, "See, Maggie, I told you that you needed to be here. I sent you here. So, hear this message, no matter how uncomfortable it may be." Anyhow, I try to be a giving and loving person. I try very hard. I give to others. But, you know what, I don't love enough. And, giving to others is not the same as loving them. God showed us that when you love someone you will sacrifice on their behalf. Those were the preacher's exact words, "when you love someone you will sacrifice on their behalf." What a smack in the face. I needed that. I thought to myself, "Yes, God, I hear you. I hear you loud and clear. I have been selfish. I will obey. I will sacrifice on their behalf." 


You see, I have been having a hard time lately. I have been struggling with some things... call them growing pains, I suppose. I keep waking up and remembering that I am an adult now. Yuck. And I am responsible for my actions and reactions. I am responsible for my family. I am responsible for my soul. 


Yes. I hear You, God. I hear you and I am working on it. It's not an immediate thing... but I will get there. I will be strong enough to do the right thing... no matter what others think. I will live a life that is pleasing to You... or die trying.

Saturday, November 27, 2010

I Love My Family


This picture was taken last Christmas on Christmas morning. It's funny to look back at pictures, even ones from only a year ago, and see how much things have changed. 
In this picture (from left to right) is my Mom, my older sister Morgan, her husband James, my aunt Debi, her boyfriend Lou, my younger sister Danielle, and my (step) dad Michael. On the front row is my husband Jake, me, and my grandma (Grandmama). 
This Christmas is Morgan and James' time to go with his family. I really miss them when they're not with us for holidays, but I understand. My sister Danielle got married this summer and her husband, John, will be joining us this Christmas as well. They are expecting a baby (in like 4 or 5 months)... see, things change. 
I am excited for Christmas this year. I went shopping yesterday and cannot wait to give the gifts I have bought so far. I really put a lot of thought into gifts and love to see people's reactions when they open them. I have bought some good ones so far, so I am really excited!

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Thanksgiving


What I'm thankful for:

The less serious things-
1. Those awesome cookies with tons of icing from Walmart. Those things are awesome!
2. Clothes fresh out of the dryer on a cold day.
3. Sales on things I really want (which means I can finally afford it!!)
4. Picture frames. I love displaying pictures.
5. Diet Coke. I LOVE that stuff.
6. Blankets. I always feel better with a blanket. lol

The semi-serious things-
1. Sunny days. No matter the temperature, sitting in the sun is always nice. Makes me feel like I have a connection with heaven.
2. A house to live in... a roof over my head... a fence in my yard.
3. My job. This time last year I was not so lucky and I am blessed to have a job.
4. Food to eat. Clothes to wear... all that stuff people need.

The more serious things-
1. My family. I have an amazing family. 
2. My husband. I know God created us for one another because, honestly, no one else could put up with either of us. lol
3. My MilShelb. These two have made me a better person. Yeah, they're dogs... but grace comes in strange forms and they have taught me so much.
4. My friends. I have terrific friends. They keep me sane (and normally with a smile on my face).
5. The people I work with. I am getting to know these people more and am truly beginning to love them. They all have something interesting and important to add to my life. I am lucky to know them.
6. Whitney. (I know, how unfair, I'm singling a friend out, but, let's be fair.) She's encouraged me to get back into the swing of things with going to church. She is awesome. Thank you, Whitney, for reminding me what is important in life... and it's nothing of this world.

I am truly a blessed person. When I'm standing right in the middle of the chaos that is my life, it's very easy to lose sight of that... but I truly am blessed and thankful beyond belief. My God is an AWESOME God. He has blessed my life in many ways I never believed possible nor thought probable. I am so glad. He has made me glad...

Saturday, November 20, 2010

Today is a Sad Day

My parents have to take Angel (the cat) to be put to sleep. It is such a sad thing. She is very old and not doing well. She has lost a pound in one week (and one pound is a big deal because she is already way too skinny). She has not been able to eat right or (as of last night) even walk. Mom called last night to tell me hat she will be gone today. So, to Angel...

Rainbow Bridge
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 all of our special friends so they can run and play together. 
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable. 

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; 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 each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. 

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster. 

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

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together.... 

Author unknown...

Thursday, November 18, 2010

A Week Before Thanksgiving

It's a week before Thanksgiving and I've decided I'll post something I'm thankful for each day until Thanksgiving.

So, today I am thankful for my MilShelb. They keep me sane. They are my heart. Love that MilShelb!!

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Day 4: Your Sibling(s)

Dear Morgan and Danielle,
Things sure have changed since we were little. Here we are, all married... one about to have a baby... life is different. I am so thankful to have had you both in my life. I am thankful to know what it is like to have sisters. You two are so different; we all are. You make me smile. You make me laugh. At times, you make me want to scream and maybe even ask if you need a reality check... but you are my sisters and I love you. I am so thankful for your love and support. I am thankful for the advice you give and the advice you (kindly) accept from me even when you're not asking for it at all.
I am looking forward to all of the changes that will continue to come our way. Babies, new homes, new pets, moves... everything. I am excited to see what the future holds for each of you.
Love you so much,
Maggie

Monday, November 15, 2010

Day 3: Your Parents

(I skipped day 2 because I don't really have a "crush". lol)


Dear Mom and Michael,
I am blessed to have you as parents. You are generous and loving people. You have taught me a lot about life. You taught me to love God and put Him first. You taught me to love other people whether they deserve it or not. You taught me to bite my tongue and smile... even when I don't want to. You taught me to stand up for myself and to be independent. 
Thank you for a wonderful childhood. Thank you for your sacrifices. Thank you for making our family a priority. Thank you for loving me.
Love, Maggie

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Day 1: Your Best Friend

Dear Katie,
You are awesome! You make me laugh. You tell me like it is. You keep my head in the game, so to speak. You are amazing. 
It is so great to have a friend that knows me... really knows me... and still loves me just for exactly who I am. You and I have many great memories together. We have had our share of good times and bad times, but I think we both know that we are not "fair weather friends", but the kind of friends that make it through thick and thin. 
I am thankful for you. I am thankful for your friendship. I am thankful for everything you have added to my life. 
I miss you all the time. I wish we still lived in the same town. It's hard to not see you as often as I'd like, but I truly love the time we get to spend together.


Thank you for being my friend. Thank you for being awesome. Thank you for standing by me and pushing me to be my best.


I love you, my Katie.


Saturday, November 13, 2010

This looks Like Fun!

WRITE A LETTER TO THESE PEOPLE :

Day 1 — Your Best Friend

Day 2 — Your Crush

Day 3 — Your parents

Day 4 — Your sibling (or closest relative)

Day 5 — Your dreams

Day 6 — A stranger

Day 7 — Your Ex-boyfriend/girlfriend/love/crush

Day 8 — Your favorite internet friend

Day 9 — Someone you wish you could meet

Day 10 — Someone you don’t talk to as much as you’d like to

Day 11 — A deceased person you wish you could talk to

Day 12 — The person you hate most/caused you a lot of pain

Day 13 — Someone you wish could forgive you

Day 14 — Someone you’ve drifted away from

Day 15 — The person you miss the most

Day 16 — Someone that’s not in your state/country

Day 17 — Someone from your childhood

Day 18 — The person that you wish you could be

Day 19 — Someone that pesters your mind—good or bad

Day 20 — The one that broke your heart the hardest

Day 21 — Someone you judged by their first impression

Day 22 — Someone you want to give a second chance to

Day 23 — The last person you kissed

Day 24 — The person that gave you your favorite memory

Day 25 — The person you know that is going through the worst of times

Day 26 — The last person you made a pinky promise to

Day 27 — The friendliest person you knew for only one day

Day 28 — Someone that changed your life

Day 29 — The person that you want tell everything to, but too afraid to

Day 30 — Your reflection in the mirror

Of course, I never keep up with these things... but I'll give this one a shot. lol

The Best Part About Owning A Dog

I saw this and it inspired this post....


The best part about owning a dog:

  • is pulling up in the driveway and seeing their little heads pop up over the edge of the back of the couch.
  • is walking in the door to two wiggly bodies that are so GLAD to see me... me. 
  • is waking up to two funny little babies dragging their bodies up from the end of the bed to lick my face... tail wagging the whole way.
  • is having someone to share a blanket with on the big chair.
  • is having a built in security system. Nothing gets by these girls.
  • is funny little noises and crazy loud barks.
  • is ears twitching and noses moving.
  • is puppy feet and wagging tails.
  • is love. So much love.

Friday, November 12, 2010

My Heart Is Tired

My heart is tired. There are so many things weighing on me lately and I am just really having a hard time dealing with all of the stress. I can tell that the stress is taking a toll on me. I walk into a room and forget what I was doing. I do that all the time now. I will be in the middle of a sentence and forget where I was going with it. I can't ever finish one thing before I start another. I am worn out.
I keep being put in the middle of situations that I don't want to be... that I shouldn't be in. I want to be there for people, but I simply can only take so much. I am only one person.
I worry a lot. I used to never worry about anything. Well, that's a lie. I worried but things didn't eat at me the way they do now. Now I just get things in my head and just can't leave them alone. I even wake up in the middle of the night thinking about something I meant to do and didn't and how it is going to make something else messed up. Ugh.
I want to be positive again. I want to be upbeat again. I want to be happy. Not that I'm not happy. I wouldn't say I'm unhappy, just stressed. There's more to do in one day than there could ever be time for. I don't have time for me and I don't have time to finish everything I need to do. I mean, I feel like I can't give 100% to anything I do because I don't have it to give. I feel like if something does get 100% then something else gets about 10% or nothing. It's frustrating.

Ok. Enough complaining. I'm done with being negative. I need to go back to not dwelling on the negative. I need to be more positive. I will work on that.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

My Own Little World By Matthew West


In my own little world it hardly ever rains
I’ve never gone hungry or always felt safe
I got some money in my pocket shoes on my feet
In my own little world
Population me
I try to stay awake through the Sunday morning church
I throw a twenty in the plate but I never give ’til it hurts
and I turn off the news when I don’t like what I see
it’s easy to do when it’s
population me
courtesy OriginaLyric.Info
What if there’s a bigger picture
what if I’m missing out
What if there’s a greater purpose
I could be living right now
outside my own little world
Stopped at the red light, looked out my window
Outside the car, saw a sign, said “Help this homeless widow”
Just above this sign was the face of a human
I thought to myself, “God, what have I been doing?”
So I rolled down my window and I looked her in the eye
Oh how many times have I just passed her by
I gave her some money then I drove on through
in my own little world there’s
Population two
What if there’s a bigger picture
what if I’m missing out
What if there’s a greater purpose
I could be living right now
outside my own little world
Start breaking my heart for what breaks Yours
give me open hands and open doors
put Your light in my eyes and let me see
that my own little world is not about me


I think that's changing... I can tell. I can tell that my own little world which was made up of myself, my husband, and the MilShelb now (CRAZILY) includes fifteen other people. Fifteen people who depend on me daily to do the right thing... to be there... to believe in them. I'm learning just what it means to be a teacher... it means that these kids become an important part of your world.

Sunday, November 7, 2010

This Crazy Life I Lead

You know, life is crazy. I think most people will agree with me on this. Life has a way of taking crazy turns and knocking you down at times you can't take it... and picking you up when you least expect the help. Life is nuts.
All that said, I never cease to be amazed at the things life throws my way. I am continuing to learn just how unpredictable life is. Each and every day something new is thrown at me. I have days when I am worn out. Days when I simply cannot take any more... and then someone says something to wake me back up, pick me up, and push me to keep going.
I am a blessed person. I am truly blessed beyond belief. I'm not referring to material things- though I am blessed in that way as well, I am referring to the people in my life. I am surrounded by people who pick me up and keep me going. I am surrounded by people who "get me". They know me. They love me. They understand me.
I am making friends at work... finally. I am starting to feel that I fit in and am not looked at as such an outcast. I am finding my rhythm in life... finding a routine and settling down.
You know, with all that positive stuff going on, there is still so much negative and so many things to overcome. I am having a hard time overlooking the bad some days and focusing on the good.
There are days when I just want to give up... thrown in the towel and say, "I've given all I've got. I'm done." I do say it to myself sometimes... but the next morning I get out of bed and go through another day and I make it.
I am learning that sometimes it is ok to just get through the day. I don't have to be in love with my life all the time. I don't have to look at the "upside" all the time. It's ok to be disappointed. Stuff happens and it's ok to deal with it without a smile on my face. What a very un-Maggie-like idea... but, I believe, a very grown up one.
Mostly, I'm satisfied with the fact that I am finding my way. Jake and I are finding our ways. So much around us is changing and some of it is for the better and some of it is not, but we are still going strong. I figure as long as we stick together, there's really nothing I cannot handle. I sure do love that man...

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Day 13: Goals

I think about goals all the time. I teach my students to set goals for themselves. Goals are an important part of life.

My (daily life) goals are very simple ones: (in no particular order)
1. Be the kind of wife God expects me to be.
2. Be the kind of Christian woman God expects me to be.
3. Be a good MilShelb Mom.
4. Be a caring teacher.

My goals for the future: (in no particular order)
1. Pass evaluations.
2. Become debt-free.
3. Buy a house.
4. Make that house a home.
5. Take vacations with Jake and the MilShelb.
6. Get to heaven!!

Friday, October 29, 2010

Skipping Around Again

Day 12- What You Believe

I skipped to day 12. I thought this one looked very interesting. I had to do a little thinking, because that is a broad topic... so, I thought I'd divide it into categories.

GOD
I believe in God with every fiber of my being. He is the Alpha and the Omega. The Beginning and the End. He is all that is and was and is to come. He is my reason for living. I believe in a loving God... an all-knowing God. A God who loves me and cares for me. A God who answers my prayers. I believe in a God who loves all people- even those who deny Him. I believe in a God that is worth living out loud for... and I do my best to live out loud for God each and every day of my life.

Children
I believe in children. I believe that all children deserve a quality education and to be taught by someone who loves them and believes in them. I believe that children are the best and most precious natural resource we have and they should be nurtured and brought up with manners, class, honesty, and the truth. I believe in believing in my students and letting them know that I believe in the with all of my heart and that I will do anything in my power to help them to succeed.

Public Education
I believe in public education. I wish more people believed in public education. If we worked this right it could really make a difference in the future of our country.

My Husband
I believe in my husband. I believe in love at first sight. I believe in a one true undying love. I believe in a love that wraps you up and holds you close and never lets you go. I believe that my husband works hard for us. He believes in me. HE believes in ME. I am so blessed.

Smiles
I believe that smiles can make someone's day better just as frowns can make someone's day much worse. You never know how much a smile can help someone out.

Gratitude
I believe in always being thankful and grateful for what you've been given. I believe in expressing gratitude whenever possible.

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Call Me a Cheater...

call me what you'd like... but I'm skipping to Day 10: Something You're Afraid Of.

I used to be afraid of being alone. I'm not anymore. I have Jake. I know he will never leave me... until his dying day. He is an amazing man.

I used to be afraid of the dark... and, to be honest, I still am... but that's for another day.

Well, I take that back. Maybe I'll just make a list of things I'm afraid of...
1. the dark. :) I refuse to walk through a dark house... even my own. I hate dark parking lots, dark cars, just dark in general. I always feel like someone is behind me. Weird, I know.
2. the "unknown". I am afraid of things unknown to me... like, people dying. It's unknown when the people I love most will leave this earth and I am afraid to lose them.
3. losing my MilShelb. I hate to think of a day without them... mostly because I hardly remember my life before them. They have really changed my life.
4. Shelby running away. That girl is an escape artist. If there is a tiny hole in the fence, you'd best bet she'll find it and be gone in a heartbeat. So far, I have been fortunate enough to have been able to keep up with her... but you just never know.
5. Fire. I am deathly afraid of fire. I'd say one of my worst fears is my house catching on fire. I just cannot imagine the panic that would go through me. I would not know what to do.
6. (I know this may sound a bit odd... but I'll admit it) I am afraid of not telling Jake that I love him and then something happening to him or to me. I tell that man I love him every time I leave the house. I just never ever want him to wonder if I truly did... because I truly do.
7. getting in trouble. Now, I know that sounds strange and sounds like I am up to no good, but that's not the case. Because of this fear I am constantly checking and rechecking everything. I hate having people fuss at me. It rarely happens, but I always feel like total crap afterwards and go over and over in my mind what I should have done. Good thing I rarely get in trouble.
8. last but not least, passing evaluations. (If you don't know much about teaching in SC, we have to go through evaluations in order to become teachers with more permanent teaching certificates. It can be a very difficult process.) What will I do if I don't pass?

The thing about fear is that it's really pointless. The thing that is happening will happen whether you fear it or not. You're supposed to put your fears, burdens, and worries on God. I need to do that more... and rely on myself less.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Day 6- A Picture of Something That Makes You Happy

I'm making up for lost time. You've gotta do what you can when you have the time...


This was a wonderful day. Jake and I were both home and we got to play in the snow with the MilShelb. We loved it. I think about all the happiness on that day and smile. We don't get to spend as much time together (all 4 of us) anymore because we've (sadly) entered the world of working people where you spend more time working and sleeping than anything else... but oh to be back there just for a bit. :)

Day 5- Your Siblings

Well, I warned you I'd be horrible at this- and I am. But, to be fair to myself, I have been very sick since Saturday and haven't really been able to use the computer much. But, I'm feeling some better now and will be going back to work tomorrow... anyhoo... my siblings.



I was born an only child. However, my Mom remarried and I now have two sisters. I have known them since I was 6 or so... so, basically my whole life. Growing up we were very different. To this day, we remain very different people. I find it truly amazing that we are able to get along, because we are so different.
My sisters are both married. They both have a dog (and cats, but I don't hold that against them ;)). They both graduated (like me) from the University of South Carolina. My older sister went on to graduate school and now teaches college courses at a school in Indiana. My younger sister is recently married and works at a boutique. 
We may be very different, lead very different lives, have different goals, dreams, ideas... but we have so much in common- where we came from. My sisters taught me a lot about life. Because I was born an only child (and was pretty much still raised as one even though they were a part of my life), they taught me more about friendship than about being sisters. We did not have the traditional home life. We do not share any of the same parents through birth. My Mom and their dad are married. Simple as that... and yet very complex. It's really hard to put into words our relationship.
It's hard to sum up, but they taught me so much. I love them each... for different reasons. They are unique, wonderful ladies and I am blessed to call them family.

"If you don't understand how a woman could both love her sister dearly and want to wring her neck at the same time, then you were probably an only child."
-Linda Sunshine



Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Day 4- Your Parents


I have amazing parents. Some may even go so far as to call them spectacular! I have parents who believe in me, taught me right from wrong, and taught me to love and fear the Lord.
I was raised in a Christian home. I ate dinner every night with my parents and sisters. We ate together, prayed together, spent time together.

Growing up, my parents strove to give me the best there was. They sacrificed for me. They made sure that I had everything I needed and most of what I wanted. My mother even gave up an entire summer to teach summer school to save money to send me to Europe for two weeks.

I grew up in the house with my mom and step-dad. My real dad died when I was a baby. He was killed in a car accident. For a few years it was just me and mom, and then came Michael and his two kids.

My family is big on vacations. We have visited tons of places and I am very blessed by that. I have seen so many places and learned so much. I have my parents to thank for that.

Family is important to my Mom. She loves family. She taught me to put family first.

My Mom rocks. I mean that. She is a generous, loving, kind woman. She taught me to give to others and not expect things in return. She also taught me to be independent and stand up for myself. I know that God knew what he was doing when He put me and mom together. :)

So, to my parents- thank you for everything! You are amazing people. I love you.

Saturday, October 16, 2010

Day 3- Your First Love

Well, I'll be the brave one. I'll admit it. My husband is not my first love. When I was in high school I dated a guy (who shall remain nameless) for nearly 2 years. We were best friends. We spent lots of time together... you know, typical high school sweet heart relationships. As with many of these high school relationships, life changed after high school. We went to two different colleges in two different towns. We grew. We changed. Bad decisions were made and it ended. I learned a lot from "boy who shall remain nameless". Mostly, I learned that people can love you one moment and disappoint you the next. I learned to stand up for myself. I learned that I deserve someone who would never hurt me or make the choices that were made by "boy who shall remain nameless". I learned what a real true broken heart feels like. I learned to stand on my own two feet and to be my very own person.
Eventually I learned that this was all part of God's plan. God was preparing me for Jake. For my husband. He knew that Jake needed a woman who is independent. He needed a woman who will stand up for herself and her family and what she believes in. He needed a woman who knows to stand at his side and stand behind him to back him up all at the same time. God knew that I needed to understand that people will hurt you, but Jake never will. I trust Jake with my heart, my life... because I learned what it looks like to not be able to trust someone. I am so thankful for that lesson.
I am thankful for my first love, because it prepared me for my true love.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Day 2- The Meaning Behind Your Blog Name

Well, my blog is called "The Everyday Life of a MilShelb Mom" because MilShelb are my babies and my life revolves around them. They are my life. Well, I wish I had more time with them, to be honest, but I am a very busy person and my every day life does not include as much time for my MilShelb as I would like... but, back to the meaning of the name.
MilShelb= Milly and Shelby
Milly and Shelby= my two mini Dachshunds
It's called the everyday life of because I mostly write about things in my day to day life. I just write about boring things, venting, and of course I write about Milly and Shelby.

So, it's that simple.

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Day One

I figure while I'm sitting here I might as well do my first entry... so, here goes.

My name is Maggie. I'm 24. I'll be 25 in December.

15 Facts
1. I'm married to an awesome guy named Jake. He's the love of my life and the one person I can tell anything and everything to... and the one person I can count on to tell me like it is.
2. I am a proud MilShelb mom. They are my miniature Dachshunds and my pride and joy.
3. I graduated from college (USC- go Gamecocks!) with a BA in Elementary Education.
4. I teach second grade. I take my job very seriously. A crappy second grade teacher can really mess things up for you in the future. These kids are my babies and I am their teacher, role model, and advocate.
5. I (like Katie where I found this challenge) hate ketchup. I do not eat it. I will NOT touch it. It is gross.
6. I love all animals. I even love insects. Ok, love is too strong. I love all animals. I don't kill insects. (Ok. I kill mosquitoes. They're nasty.)
7. I live for the moment I walk in the door to my house and my sweet babies greet me with wags and barks hello. It makes my heart melt.
8. I love skittles. I really do. They're wonderful. (Only the red bag. All others are gross. lol)
9. I only like football because my husband does. I actually don't care much for football, but I love the atmosphere. It's so energizing!
10. I believe that God has a plan for everyone. Every single bad day is in His plans. Every single strange happening... all that... it's in His plan for a bigger picture that no one can even imagine.
11. I am obsessed with Shelby's feet. (Shelby's the Shelb in MilShelb.) She just has such cute little tiny feet!!
12. I really think that Milly and Shelby know how I feel about things. I know they don't speak english- but, really, they don't have to. They know how I feel and I love that about them. They're wonderful!
13. I have a love-hate relationship with the copier at work. I love it when it works, but it almost never does exactly what I want it to do, so most of the time we aren't getting along.
14. I am stressed to the MAX 99.9% of the time. I really think that it is a great thing my head is attached to my body, because otherwise there's just no telling where I'd leave it.
15. I love my life. It is crazy. It is hectic. It is chaotic. But, I live every single day doing something that I love. I spend every single day in a marriage to an amazing man. I go to work with awesome teachers who are there for the RIGHT reason- because they want to HELP children. I come home each night to my sweet babies who think I'm awesome! I may go 500,000 mph every day, but I just love every minute of it. I know I complain a lot about the craziness of it all, but to be 100% honest, I wouldn't trade it for the world.

30 Day Challenge

Day 1-Introduce, recent picture, 15 interesting facts
Day 2-Meaning behind your blog name
Day 3-Your first love
Day 4-Your parents
Day 5-Your siblings
Day 6-A picture of something that makes you happy
Day 7-Favorite movies
Day 8-A place you've traveled to
Day 9-A picture of your friends
Day 10-Something you're afraid of
Day 11-Favorite tv shows
Day 12-What you believe
Day 13-Goals
Day 14-A picture you love
Day 15-Bible verse
Day 16-Dream house
Day 17-Something you're looking forward to
Day 18-Something you regret
Day 19-Something you miss
Day 20-Nicknames
Day 21-Picture of yourself
Day 22-Favorite city
Day 23-Favorite vacation
Day 24-Something you've learned
Day 25-Put your iPod on shuffle, first 10 songs
Day 26-Picture of your family
Day 27-Pets
Day 28-Something that stresses you out
Day 29-3 Wishes
Day 30-a picture 
 I found this 30 Day Blog Challenge and will be participating in it. I won't promise I'll write something every single day- because I know I won't. Let's be honest... life gets in the way, but, I do want to participate... so here goes nothing! :)

Saturday, October 2, 2010

A Better Life...



I love you, Jake... that's all that really matters.

Friday, October 1, 2010

Probably Shouldn't Post This...

I won't say who this is about... and, actually, I've typed this thing about 50 times. But, this is the last one or I won't even bother posting it because I seriously am tired and just want to go to bed.
My brain is so scattered right now that I can't really think straight. I do that when I have too much going on... which seems to be my life lately.
You know, I am not a person who goes looking for drama. Really. I'm not. Plenty of people say that, but I MEAN it. I am not. I truly would rather run and hide from it, but I always end up right where I don't want to be- stuck in the middle of an impossible situation. Yuck.
I really try to mind my own business. I mean, between Jake, the MilShelb, and my 16 kids, my job, my class I have to take, and all the other odds and ends of my life, I really have more than my fair share of crap going on. Yet, that's not ever enough. Others seem to feel the need to pile it on me. I have a hard time saying, "no. Don't tell me that. I don't want to hear it and I cannot possibly keep your secret." Of course, I don't say that. I listen. I take it in. I feel for them. I can't sleep half the time because of someone else's problems. I really care way too much about other people.
I have decided that for my own sanity, I am going to start saying no. I am going to start saying, "please don't make me your confidant. I cannot take it." Or, "Well, you can tell me but I'm at least telling Jake because I just have to have someone to talk things through with." That poor man, between me and all my crap and everyone else I know's crap he's got the weight of the world on his shoulders (and yet he just goes on with his life. Nothing bothers him.). 
The point is, if you know you're one of those people who are weighing me down with your burdens, this is my silent cry- please stop. It's not that I don't want to be your friend. It's not that you can't talk to me. It's not that you can't confide in me, but choose carefully because I simply cannot take all of your stresses and carry them, too. I cannot do it.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

As the saying goes...

There comes a point in your life when you realize:
Who matters,
Who never did,
Who won't anymore...
And who always will.
So, don't worry about people from your past,
there's a reason why they didn't make it to your future






So so true. Some days it's time to grow up and move on.


You know, every day I thank God for Jake. Even when he makes me mad. That's the first thing I pray each night, "thank you for Jake". I know how lucky I am. I know how truly blessed I am. I look around at other people's lives and situations and am constantly grateful for mine. It's not always easy, it's not always fun, it's sometimes hard to find the "worth it" in life, but I know that no matter what happens I am coming home to a man who loves me, who accepts me, who understand me. I know that at the end of each day I pray to a God who knows, hears, and sees all things. Who loves me even though I am a sinner and am unworthy of His love. I know that I will always have two sweet cuddlers who love me and are thrilled to see me walk in the door. I know that I have people by my side that do not question my actions or ethics. I know that I have made the best decisions I could for that day. Mostly, I know that with God by my side I can do anything. I am so glad for that. 
I have learned in life that things will always get worse before they get better and that you have to make the most of the cards you've been dealt. 
Things are getting interesting but I'm hanging in there!



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