All that self-control is wearing me out

Did you know that group living "takes great self-control; it takes a lot to live with people day after day and not kill them."

That's what the people over at Psychological Science said.

"But that kind of self-control has become so painful in the modern world because there is so much to want, so much to tempt our restraint. We live in busy, complex communities surrounded by desirable goods and fun ideas, and so all day, every day, we hold back. And we see that most everyone else is holding back too. We are hit hard by both our own weary self-control as well as the exhausting empathy we apparently have for everyone else's self-control."

Now I know why I'm so tired.
  • aleta
    Like when you lived in "A" Dorm?
    by aleta at 04/11/09 1:12PM
  • tortilla
    yes, but I am glad you are older and have all that figured out unlike some of us youngins. ;) Thank you for your classes on Sundays! ;)
    by tortilla at 04/13/09 9:45PM
  • letha
    I'm glad you have all that self control. It's part of what makes you the strong person you are!
    by letha at 04/14/09 8:46AM
  • pistal77
    I haven't really thought about it that way before.
    by pistal77 at 04/14/09 8:35PM
  • marmalade
    I just thought it was so silly (or sad) - I'm really not that tired!
    by marmalade at 04/17/09 8:28PM
  • jonah_luke
    hi im going to mak ooooo a find o peanast
    by jonah_luke at 05/17/09 9:25AM
  • tortilla
    he is so silly. he totally meant to spell all of that wrong. he thought it was so funny!
    by tortilla at 05/17/09 11:01PM
  • ambera
    http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Roast-Chicken-with-Rosemary/Detail.aspx
    Hi, I just wanted to share that recipe I was telling you about the other day. I did follow most of the suggestions from the reviewers for tweaking it with the lemon, olive oil, garlic, potatoes and carrots. I'm thinking of making it tonight. :) It didn't take nearly as long to cook in my oven either. I hope ya'll are having a good one. Enjoy your new precious addition, Patience. :)
    by ambera at 08/21/09 10:11AM
  • Marilee
    visit me!
    by Marilee at 01/23/10 10:59PM
  • Marilee
    you look pretty in that pictere.
    by Marilee at 12/12/10 3:54PM
  • Marilee
    why dont you have me on youre list?
    by Marilee at 12/21/10 3:01PM
  • Marilee
    can you belive it!

    amelie is actaly here!
    by Marilee at 03/16/11 2:50PM
  • bean
    why do you look like you're about 14 in that picture?
    by bean at 04/03/11 5:34PM

Barry's update

Thank you for your prayers - they were answered! Everything went well. The doctor said the damage was "massive" but he was able to put everything back where it belongs. The recovery will take some time, but we're grateful for how well everything has gone so far. Feel free to email him if you want - pennington@sbcglobal.net - and to continue to pray for a good recovery. Thanks, y'all!

P.S. Sorry, I should have mentioned what the surgery was for. When Barry was trying to fix the garage door a couple of weeks ago, the rope broke that he was pulling on realllly hard. He fell back on his right elbow and shoulder and ended up with "massive" rotator cuff damage.
  • lauraroseborough
    Thanks for the update and I am glad that things went well for him. Dr. Forsty Moore impresses me more every time I go see him.

    I hope you both are getting some sleeping right now. My left nostril is well hurting now that the stitch is out but with all considered today was the first day I sleep most of the day. I needed it so. I don't know if John told you but I am also dealing with cyst on both ovaries right now. One is larger than all but that one is bothering me really bad as I speak. I can tell though this surgery has really helped and I am thankful for that (the sinus' surgery). Well I better go and let the dog out and try and take something for my pain. Tell Barry to hang in there so many people are praying for him and both of you. *hugs*
    by lauraroseborough at 12/03/08 5:15PM
  • bliss117
    The recovery doesn't sound fun. I would definitely be grouchy!
    by bliss117 at 12/03/08 6:49PM
  • aleta
    I'm glad things went well...though I am clueless what has happened to cause the surgery. Not to be nosy, I'll just say that I'm thankful he's on the mend.
    by aleta at 12/03/08 10:57PM
  • terra
    yay! I'm glad things went so well!
    by terra at 12/04/08 6:33AM
  • windham4life
    I'm glad the surgery went well! That's crazy that he hurt it so much!!! I hope he feels better soon. I'm sure it will be a long recovery.
    by windham4life at 12/04/08 2:45PM
  • aleta
    Ouch! That sounds painful! Glad it's over and hope he heals well.
    by aleta at 12/04/08 10:29PM
  • faith1980
    give him a kiss from piglet. that should help the healing process :)
    by faith1980 at 12/05/08 9:46AM
  • dianna
    Glad things are going well so far. That definitely sounds painful! Hope recovery goes smooth and quickly for both of you! :)
    by dianna at 12/06/08 1:32AM
  • ericsgal
    hope he's feeling better!
    by ericsgal at 12/08/08 1:41PM
  • bliss117
    How's Barry doing? And you? :)
    by bliss117 at 01/05/09 3:48PM
  • aleta
    Sharing Grief 10-24-07 01:20pm CST

    Today Gene met with a man, a member of another congregation in the Houston area, who lost his wife to a battle with cancer about 4 weeks ago. This man and his wife were married only ten years, but both had married later in life. They were so in love, and he misses her terribly.

    Gene called me after they had spent some time together and I joined them for lunch at Luby's Cafeteria. I was really looking forward to being with this man and to being able to talk with him about his wife. The 3 of us, all having the trial in common of losing a mate, had a wonderful visit, even though painful and at some points filled with tears.

    There was a time in our lives when the 3 of us were "on the other side", only able to helplessly "look in" on those who grieved the loss of a spouse. But now we've been there and there's so much we have learned:

    When we lost our mates, somehow at first, we felt like we were accountable to our friends and loved ones and to the public to "be over it" in THEIR time; to fit into a mold of THEIR expectations. This is not good. Grief is "custom made" and if we try to suppress our feelings so as to please those who HAVEN'T grieved, we won't heal. Our friend has been struggling with that, but we discussed the value of grieving in HIS time.

    We don't (didn't) mind people saying, "Hi, how are ya?", but it DOESN'T help to persist with, "No, how ARE you?" because we AREN'T fine and we don't want to say we are doing terrible. But we will if pushed. If you're told "I'm fine", but you really don't believe it, then let your doubt in their answer satisfy your curiosity. What you believe...is right. Don't make the griever say it.

    So what DO you say to the grieving? Things that help are:

    No words at all; just a hug and an "I'm thinking of you".

    If making a call to check in, ask "What's on your agenda today?" "Would you like to have lunch? And when spending this sort of time with the griever, talk about normal things; things in your life. Share funny stories/happenings. Help them laugh. Ask them questions about their loved one; things you never knew about them: "How did you meet?" "What did he/she do for a living?" "How long were they sick?"

    Say their name often and easily. Don't apologize for that, and don't patronize; don't treat them as a child with a boo boo. Speak in normal tones, the way you did before their loss. Listen closely to how THEY feel and what THEY are saying, because it's only by listening closely that you will pick up on THEIR needs.
    by aleta at 01/05/09 10:28PM
  • aleta
    The griever has trouble identifying what they need, so don't persist that they use their energy to come up with something for you to do. Just listen. Closely. And be available.

    The grieving want to feel normal again, but it will take a while to allow themselves to do that because they feel it will betray their lost one. Admittedly the hard part for those on the "outside looking in" is how to balance normalcy with still showing compassion. Like I said, we've been on that side, too.

    I hope some of these thoughts help. We all will always have those around us who grieve. Each grief has it's own personality. Respect that as much as you respect and allow your friends and loved ones to be who they are.
    by aleta at 01/05/09 10:28PM
  • aleta
    I'm glad you asked, Kay, and I'm glad to share this again.

    I cannot believe we missed you! That would have been so much fun to see you!
    by aleta at 01/05/09 10:30PM
  • faith1980
    the word traumatized doesnt even begin to explain what i have been through.
    by faith1980 at 01/05/09 11:25PM
  • wildpeachem
    It was good to hear from you. I'm sorry about Barry's accident; from what I hear, the recovery from that injury and surgery is no picnic. We'll be thinking about him and all of you.
    by wildpeachem at 01/06/09 5:08AM
  • aleta
    You're welcome!
    by aleta at 01/07/09 11:03PM
  • jonah_luke
    hi marmolaid or maid
    by jonah_luke at 01/16/09 10:30AM
  • jonah_luke
    xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo love you!
    by jonah_luke at 01/16/09 10:57AM

Barry's surgery

If you would be so kind as to pray for Barry, we sure would appreciate you! His surgery is tomorrow morning, and recovery is ????? - we'll see. We're very optimistic, though, thanks to all of the encouraging calls, emails and stories that our friends (and even a few real nice strangers) have shared. Thanks so much! I'll try to get on here before too long for an update.
  • mamamia
    I will be praying for Barry, you and your family.
    by mamamia at 11/30/08 9:57PM
  • pistal77
    will pray!
    by pistal77 at 11/30/08 11:29PM
  • lauraroseborough
    I'll be praying for Barry and for you as well. I know he will get through this and I will pray for the doctors and those who are helping him through this. *hugs*
    by lauraroseborough at 12/01/08 1:59AM
  • sjean
    I'll be praying. Let us know how it goes.
    by sjean at 12/01/08 8:37AM
  • joyfulsong
    I'm praying. I'm sure in time he will be fine. Keep us posted.
    by joyfulsong at 12/01/08 9:12AM
  • windham4life
    Definitely praying. I hope he has a good recovery! Please keep us updated.
    by windham4life at 12/01/08 8:28PM
  • bliss117
    Any idea how long it will take him to recover?
    by bliss117 at 12/03/08 9:13AM

Kids

Sweet children all around! When we had our first little one and then were expecting the second baby, an older preacher said to Barry, "You're gonna make an old hag out of her!" I'm rapidly approaching old hagdom, but not because of children. They are the best part of being in this world! Thank God for the little ones, and for Godly parents who are teaching, nurturing, loving them.
  • windham4life
    You are definitely not approaching old hagdom! lol
    by windham4life at 08/06/08 1:03AM
  • pistal77
    oh silly you! that is just a thought in your mind!
    by pistal77 at 08/06/08 1:50AM
  • lauriw1030
    Children ARE the best part of this world! My 5 are growing up fast! They range from 10-16 and I don't know where the years have gone!
    by lauriw1030 at 08/06/08 8:25AM
  • letha
    My sweet Kay. You are far from being a hag! In fact, you are probably one of the prettiest little ladies I know, and I say it's all because of the sweet children and grandchildren you have. (And a sweet husband, too!) Of course, I realize I could be a wee bit prejudiced, but I'm not the only one who thinks this. I, too, am proud of my children and grands, and especially my greats!! And I agree with you about the sweet parents who are training them up so well in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Love to all, Letha
    by letha at 08/06/08 8:50AM
  • letha
    P. S. I sure am proud you finally got back on the computer!
    by letha at 08/06/08 8:51AM
  • bean
    do you think your son-in-law is sweet after what he did to your grandbaby's sweet picture?
    by bean at 08/06/08 10:41AM
  • ericsgal
    I'm pretty sure "old hag" will never be a term used to describe you, sweet lady!!!
    by ericsgal at 08/06/08 11:58AM
  • aleta
    Kay, Kay, Kay. When we saw each other, I hope I told you that you look as young as you did over 30 years ago, because you do! I'm so happy for your blessings of grandchildren!
    by aleta at 08/06/08 3:16PM
  • rebecca
    first take a dot, a lotta dot dot dots.... your ICQ/ICU joke was pretty good! :) marmoskin, here i come!
    by rebecca at 08/06/08 5:54PM
  • tortilla
    you are a bit prejudiced with your recent comment on my blog, by the way! i am going to have to agree with everyone else- not sure you will never be a 'hag' sweet MIL!
    by tortilla at 08/07/08 10:40PM
  • ericsgal
    you're right! Thanks!
    by ericsgal at 08/08/08 3:34PM
  • bliss117
    No, but we did go to the beach and jump waves! Be watching for an e-mail from me...
    by bliss117 at 09/06/08 8:37PM
  • headocurls
    You are FAR from hagdom, especially if you remain as sweet as you are! Tons of kids wish they had you guys for parents remember that!!
    by headocurls at 10/17/08 7:22PM
  • headocurls
    School is eeehhhh.... I am about to quit my job because working and taking 12 hours is too much for me. These classes require soo much more work than I am used to and its killing me. Anyway, I can't wait until thanksgiving. How are you??
    by headocurls at 10/20/08 9:42PM
  • rebecca
    y'all need to quit playing with my heart! who'll it be?? either way, i'll be pleased as punch and then some!
    by rebecca at 10/21/08 6:06AM
  • dianna
    So glad to see you and visit with you at the retreat. Thank you so much for coming!
    by dianna at 11/11/08 2:57PM
  • ambera
    It's always nice to see you. You are far from hagdom. :) I forgot the name of the recipe website you were telling me about. Do you mind sharing it with me again? Thanks! :)
    by ambera at 11/12/08 9:36AM

And Silas makes five

Go to bean's blog to read all about it! What a blessing.
  • imaprettypenguin
    Congrats! He's so beautiful! I love y'all!
    by imaprettypenguin at 05/20/08 12:17AM
  • ahope
    did you slip away with GL at some point to pick up on the horse betting lingo!?!? lol
    by ahope at 05/20/08 5:19PM
  • pistal77
    i can only imagine all of the hugs and kisses that yall shared.
    by pistal77 at 05/20/08 10:32PM
  • pistal77
    thank you, hope all is well.
    by pistal77 at 05/22/08 12:46PM
  • jonah_luke
    i love you
    by jonah_luke at 05/23/08 11:18AM
  • jonah_luke
    I bet tonight we are going to have a fun time at your house
    by jonah_luke at 05/30/08 4:00PM
  • jonah_luke
    thank you for your words!
    by jonah_luke at 06/05/08 9:49AM
  • letha
    Thanks for the wonderful visit I had with you and your family last weekend. It was just great to be with all of your sweet kiddos (except little Beccas) and Warren and Debi and Billie. So glad I could go with you to Columbus and see Hollie and T.J. and their boys, also. Thanks for helping me out of Austin, too (you and little Barry). Great time! Love, Mom
    by letha at 06/11/08 1:51PM
  • faith1980
    i've been in a deep depression from not seeing you this weekend!!!
    by faith1980 at 06/21/08 10:52PM
  • faith1980
    you owe me an ugly performance.. or maybe two.
    by faith1980 at 06/21/08 10:52PM
  • holly_h
    :) Nice to hear from you.
    by holly_h at 06/25/08 9:30AM
  • faith1980
    HAPPY EARLY BIRTHDAY!!
    by faith1980 at 06/26/08 9:55PM
  • ahope
    Happy Belated Birthday. Sad that its written on the calendar right in front of my face! I think I have developed ADHD since having Greyson... or he enhanced it! Duh....
    by ahope at 06/28/08 9:04PM
  • faith1980
    hmm was i not in any of the pictures? however did that happen? what a shame. you're right.. the room barely was enough for all the talent that was there already. such a scary thought. love you!
    by faith1980 at 06/28/08 11:23PM
  • smokewagon
    Not so much. When its hot, its hot. It was 104 at midnight last night. Good to hear from you.
    by smokewagon at 06/30/08 1:10PM
  • rebecca
    who is cussing and where? i'm confused. but i'm sure you can delete it, whatever it is.
    by rebecca at 06/30/08 7:31PM
  • dianna
    I just wanted to let you and Barry know how great it was to have you guys be a part of Tiffany's special day. Thank you. It all went so wonderfully!
    by dianna at 07/03/08 1:55AM
  • lavendargirl36
    Kay!!!! It's Julie (Willams) Petry. I don't know if you remembe me or not. I worshipped with you when I was a student at Sam Houston State. You were a host at one of my wedding showers. You guys used to pick me up for church. At the time Rebekah was just about 4 or 5 years old.
    by lavendargirl36 at 07/17/08 5:58PM
  • headocurls
    Hey Kay! I miss ya! I leave for UNT August 15th. The first day of move in is the 17th and first day of classes is the 25th! Beau is great though hes a handful. How are things with you???
    by headocurls at 07/24/08 11:50AM
  • mamamia
    Heard you were back in Austin! Just can't stay away from those grandbabies? :)
    by mamamia at 08/05/08 10:03PM