Live in Love

Friday fav.

2012-02-03T06:22:00.000-08:00

Oh the days... this lovely redhead is one of my bestest friends in the whole universe~ Mrs. Kerri Sagraves. This pic. was taken in Knoxville while I was visiting her and her husband Brad. She was pregnant with her first baby, Lizzie. I love this girl with all of my heart and miss her dearly. God has truely blessed me with amazing friends.

my husband, the teddy bear

2012-02-01T08:38:00.000-08:00

Ok.. I continue to discover that my husband is going to be wooped when we have a little girl. There's something about his teddy bearish frame, big blue eyes, and this certain way he has with the cuties.. they all LOVE HIM! (and he loves them) Of course this was one of my very favorite things that reeled me in right away about him. On our first date, we were taking a stroll through the mall and the cutest little girl comes running up to him and jumps into his arms. "Jason!!" She held on tightly around his neck for a good 5 minutes while we stood and talked to her parents (Jason's friends and former co-worker). I was a puddle on the floor.

Last night.. another one these episodes was reported to me (by my husband). Her name is Bitsy and she's his newest little girlfriend- she's about 4 years old and absolutely loves Jason. Last night after a meeting a church she went running up to him and jumped into his arms and stayed there- despite the fact that her siblings and friends were playing all around them. When her parents were ready to go, she didn't want to go.. she protested.. and later.. her dad texted Jason to let him know that Bitsy told him that she didn't want to leave him.. I melt! He doesn't stand a chance with our little girls... they will definately be daddy's girls. For his sake, I hope we have a girl first.

Bitsy and her older sister Alex- both CUTIES! and very sweet!

not the same

2012-01-31T07:21:00.000-08:00

A word for today:
When we come into God’s presence, He fills us. The Lord changes us so that we are not the same as we were when we came to Him. Ezekiel 46:9 represents this exchange of old for new. The people of Israel were told when they came into the temple area to worship, they were to enter through one gate and exit through the opposite gate.

So the same should be true with us; we are “not to go back as we came, but more holy, and heavenly, and spiritual” (Matthew Henry). As we enter into our special times with God, we need to come out the “opposite gate,” different than the way we went in.

This was my reading this morning. A wonderful reminder to not allow what you've given to God back into your heart and mind. Leave it with him! God bears our burdens and casts out all fear. He is a good God and doesn't expect us to bear the load, the burdens of life on our own. What a good God he is. He loves us so much. I am so thankful to have been raised in a home that taught me to love God and to put him in priority. What a blessing.

much needed

2012-01-30T07:00:00.000-08:00

I had such a fun weekend. It was mostly relaxing, but with a lot of activity. Friday night we had some new friends over, Marshall and Tabbie. It was a lot of fun. Jason and I both really enjoyed and connected with them. The four of us share responsibility of the kids ministry at our church. They do the Sunday morning services and we do the Sunday night one. It's been a good system so far. Anyway.. we had taco soup and played a game. Lots of food and lots of laughs. A great night. The guys ended up playing old school nintendo and the girls sat on the couch and gabbed. A wonderful night of friends who love the Lord like we do. Praise God for his blessings.

Saturday was a full on free day. It was wonderful. Jason and I planned it that way on purpose. We've been so busy and we needed to have a full day to complete odds and ends that had been neglected as well as just have some US time. It was a great day. After getting odds and ends accomplished around the house, we ventured into town for a movie. We saw my favorite: Beauty and the Beast in 3-D. It was beautiful and wonderful. After the movie we went to the park so I could take some shots of Jason for his graduation announcements. They turned out great! Here's my fav.

ahh he's sooo handsome...you can see other favorites on my photography blog anyway... We had some shopping to do so we went to Sam's (we were planning a special movie night for the kids at church). We shopped and dropped our groceries at the church then went to the mall for coffee and people watching. I breezed in and out of a few stores.. it was a great day. We ended up at home for some down time.

Sunday was a wonderful day in the Lord. Jason participated in his first baptismal service. Two of the men in the recovery class that he teaches requested he be the pastor to baptise them. It was a sweet time. We enjoyed a restful afternoon. Just what we needed. That night, the kids had a movie party.. complete with snacks and "Veggie Tales". Now it's Monday and I anticipate another wonderful week, but I definately look forward to the weekend again.

friday fav.

2012-01-27T07:50:00.000-08:00

I love this picture. I love the look on Jason's face in particular. This is one of the looks of my husband that captures his true personality. It's like..what's going on in that head of yours? I've found pictures of him with the same look when he's a kid and I get such a kick out of them! A little mischevious.. woulden't you say?

the road less traveled

2012-01-26T09:00:00.000-08:00

“He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8

I read a great devo. this morning from my Proverbs 31 daily e-mail. It was talking about how easy isn’t always good. Sometimes the easy way gets us into trouble, or leaves a wake of disaster behind us. Just because something is more difficult doesn’t mean it’s wrong and we should choose the easy route. It’s just like walking with Christ. It’s not easy at times.. it’s often the harder road. It’s not popular always and it takes a lot of guts to stand up for what you believe in. I love this challenge. Character is not built from one moment to the next, it’s build in the midst of trial and waiting. Where would we be without that hard road? Something to think about.. I know I will.

Yesterday after I shared my financial blessing I decided to share one each day. My hope is that it will encourage you and will hold me accountable in claiming one each day. The blessing I chose for today goes right along with what i've just talked about:

"When bad News Comes"

I am not shaken when I hear bad news. I will not let a bad report affect my joy or rob me of my peace. I will not let bad news discourage me or cause me to become fearful. God has a plan for me to overcome this financial adversity. This was no suprise to Him. He will make a way where there seems to be no way. I cast all the problems of this situation over to the Lord. I will not let worry, fear, or anxious thoughts trouble me. The HOly Spirit gives me insight, wisdom , and favor to navigate my way throug this adversity.

God is my provider, my deliverer, and my strong tower. I have learned to live independent of circumstances. The Holy Spirit gives me clear and specific directions concerning what I should do. Jesus will never leave me or forsake me. Therefore I will not let my heart be troubled. I will trust in God and I will boast in His Word. What the enemy has meant for evil, God will turn it to my good. I will patiently wait and see the salvation of the Lord.

my source

2012-01-25T06:20:00.000-08:00

Jason and I are in a season of making up for past mistakes. For me, It's my credit card debt and re-learning some spending habits. Both of us brought debt into our marriage and let me tell ya, it's not always easy. But, you know, God is our source.. not our jobs or what we do or don't do.. it's God that provides. I stand amazed at how time after time Jason and I shoudlen't have been able to pay our bills and the money just came from somewhere and everything was covered and then some. That's my God!

My wonderful friend and mentor, Jackie, gave me several books in a series called "Scripture Confessions" each mini book fits perfectly into any purse or pocket and is chock full of different "confessions" for different situations in life. At the end of each confession are several scriptures that back up the confession- soo cool! The one i've been carrying around lately is the finances version. I wanted to share one today. I pray that this encourages you as much as it does me. You can find these books here

"Start the Day with God"

This is the day that the Lord has made, and I will rejoice and be glad in it. My God supplies all my needs according to His riches in glory. It is His will that I prosper and lack nothing. I am the head and not the tail. I am blessed coming in and I am blessed going out. I am blessed on my job; I have God's favor with all those who are in authority over me.

Abraham's blessing is mine. Abundance and prosperity are God's will for my life. I call all of my debts "paid off" and all my bills "paid on time." Whatever I do succeeds, and I prosper in whatever I put my hand to. I operate and function in the wisdom of God concerning all my financial matters. Men give to me good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over. Supernatural money-making ideas come to me. God gives me supernatural insight and understanding on how to make more money and how to manage all of my financial affairs. I have more than enough to meet all of my needs and plenty left over to be a blessing to others.

this is Jackie ("ma" as Jason calls her) she is not only an amazing friend and mentor, but she was one of the ministers at our wedding (she's signing our wedding license here)~ a true woman of God to emulate

my weekend with THE MAN

2012-01-23T07:14:00.000-08:00

Do you ever have one of those days/ moments/ weeks where you feel like you just can't keep up with all the ideas and list of desired accomplishments in your head and you just don't do any of them because there are too many clogging your brain and preventing you from funcioning? (breathe) haha!! I do. ALL THE TIME! I wonder if I have ADD. My moms says I do and apparently she's the expert since she has a masters in counseling.. anyway.. sometimes I wonder, how does one go about doing all that he/she desires to accomplish without being compeltely overwhelmed? One step at a time. You know, I think it starts with taking a deep breath, then praying. Yep, God will align my thoughts, desires , dreams.. then help me put them into action in the order that he wills them. I'm already doing better at blogging. I'm feeling my brain juices flowing again.. I love this feeling! God is faithful.

Jason and I had a productive weekend. Friday was something new... after work i went over to my boss's house (she's around my age) along with my two other co-workers and had a movie night. We had pizza hut, rolo snacks, too much coke and watched Forrest Gump. A lifelong classic I will never tire of. I am very blessed to have co-workers that I get along with/ enjoy spending time with outside of work. We're all around the same age and that definately helps. Jason got some alone time (which he desperately needed) which always translates to me coming home finding him on the couch watching either Star Trek or Stargate. (yes, I married a sci-fi nerd). I actually encourage my hubby to relax.. he works super hard (sometimes too hard) Sometimes I have to order him to sit on the couch for a while. For this, i admire him. He's not a work-aholic, he's just a hard worker who does everything 110% and I love him for this.

Saturday we slept in and got lots done around the house. Jason had greek homework and I always have house work. He also took that time to prepare for his Tuesday night class that he teaches at church and to organize his notes for Kid's church on Sunday night. It was definately a productive afternoon. Sometimes those are my absolute favorite Saturdays.. just being around the house.. being productive. ahhh. After we had accomplished our goals for the day, we got dressed up for a date night in honor of Jason being clean for 5 years. (that's a very long story, but my husband has been delivered from a period of addiction.. Praise God!). I wanted to make a big deal of this very awesome accomplishment. We used one of our Christmas gift cards to Red Lobster because my husband is a seafood fan. It was a lovely evening. We stuffed ourselves on scallops, crab cakes, and yummy chicken.. then topped it all off with some concretes from Andy's- yummmm!!!.

when we got home, we changed into our stretchy pants and enjoyed the movie Father of the Bride. Jason had never seen it, but i knew he would love it. Sure enough- he did. We totally joked that he will be just like Steve Martin, the father, someday. I love that he knows this already and isn't even a dad yet. =)

Sunday was busy. It was one of those days that we packed everything up in the morning and took it with us to church because we wouldn't be coming home again until after evening service. We had a wonderful morning of worship and an inspiring word. We ate yummy soup with some nice friends at their home and then were back to church early for a Kid's Ministry meeting. Our kids service went well (Kid's Club Connection) We've got great kids. I will have to dedicate a whole post to our kids.

God is good friends.. God is SO GOOD!

friday fav.

2012-01-20T07:24:00.000-08:00

Cousin Eddie meets docta' love! My crazy little brother poses for a priceless pic. Christmas 2010. He's the king of silly pics!

reflection

2012-01-19T13:42:00.000-08:00

1. What did you do in 2011 that you'd never done before?

Played an old woman in a children’s play

2. Did you keep your New Year's resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

Honestly, I don’t remember what my resolution was last year. I never make much of a deal of them. This year, I just want to improve myself all around- shouldn’t we always be wanting to do that?

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

These days it seems that EVERYONE is having babies!! My friends Amy and Kerri had baby boys: Luke and Ben My friend Ashley had a girl: Bryley

4. Did anyone close to you die?

Yes, My grandfather. He lived 8 hours away, but close all the same.

5. What countries did you visit?

Unfortunately, none. Europe is the goal!

6. What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011?

I would absolutely love to have a baby. But that’s up to the good Lord.

7. What dates from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

Oh wow! I’m not sure if I have specific dates.. nothing monumental enough for that.

8. What was your biggest achievement for the year?

I’ve adjusted to being a wife and having my own home.

9. What was your biggest failure?

I didn’t spend enough personal time with the Lord.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

Nothing physical.. just had to make some emotional adjustments.

11. What was the best thing you bought?

I enjoyed making my husband’s birthday special. We went ziplining and to a yummy hamburger place. I enjoyed spoiling him for a few days surrounding his birthday.

12. Where did most of your money go?

Bills

13. What did you get really excited about?

My new camera at Christmas- It’s a longtime dream of mine to take up photography.

14. What song will always remind you of 2011?

Let It Snow- Michael Buble

15. Compared to this time last year, are you:

-Happier or sadder?

Happier!

-Thinner or fatter?

fluffier

-Richer or poorer?

Same.

16. What do you wish you'd done more of?

Cooked for my husband more, gone to Memphis for visits.. traveled

17. What do you wish you'd done less of?

Being discontent

18. How did you spend Christmas?

On Christmas Eve me and my hubby had a special fancy dinner at home and exchanged one gift between the two of us and then watched “It’s A Wonderful Life” while cozied on the couch. On Christmas day we went to his parents’ house for brunch and tons of presents with the immediate family. We hung out there for a while.. I had fun with my new camera.. then we were lazy the rest of the day/week.. I had the whole week off- it was wonderful!

19. What was your favorite TV program?

Do I have to pick one? Some that I get most excited about are America’s Next Top Model (don’t judge), The Next Iron Chef, and Criminal Minds

20. What were your favorite books of the year?

The Power of a Praying Wife

21. What was your favorite music this year?

Michael Buble’s Christmas CD.

22. What were your favorite films of the year?

Sherlock Holmes, seeing Lion King in 3-D

23. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?

I turned 30- My husband planned a whole weekend of specials- but the highlight was definitely my surprise Roller Staking Party with family and friends.

24. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?

More music

25. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2011?

Comphy simple chic and leggings!

26. What kept you sane?

The love of my husband and Jesus

27. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2011.

That I can be content no matter what!! I just need to keep my eyes on Jesus and not let my mind tell me otherwise. Focus on the positive and strive to make new goals!

2011- looking back

2012-01-18T14:16:00.000-08:00

Rascal Flatts concert

first house guests (ever) - Jonathan and his girlfriend Amanda

our first Valentine's day as a married couple- Jason cooked

we sang "lucky" by Jason Mraz at our church's Valentine's day banquet

I married a farmer- he grew an amazing vegetalbe garden- a first

dad brought us a Tulip Poplar from memphis~ it started blooming around our wedding

Love, Jason

i got bunnied by Jesus~ our first Easter play together

A tea party in celebration of Prince William and Kate's marriage

we spend a lot of time at table rock lake in Branson

my first time to cliff jump~ scary!

new friends~ Bitsy and Alex

Happy Birthday Jason! ~ He suprised me (below) with a roller skating party for my 30th birthday!

Road trip to Pennsylvania~ North Market in Columbus, Oh.

Gettysburg

Indianapolis

epic water balloon fight (started by my dad and my husband~ Wiley FAmily Reunion

Our 1 year anniversary~ Dogwood Canyon

Eating dinner over lake Taneycomo

Mom's birthday weekend

Jason wears a skirt!

this was my first time to see Jason holding a baby (Luke Baker)

Grandpa Schaade joined Nana in heaven early november~ they are together again

the Sagraves visited us for the first time in Missouri

cousin Robin got married

Jonathan "loved" his Christmas gift!

caroling at St. John's ~ pediatric floor

a preview~ Jason and I were in the kid's Christmas play at church

Jason got his liscense to preach for the A/G~ we celebrated with all you can eat crab legs!

ice skating for the first time together on New Year's Eve

cousin Madison's first time to bowl

my first photo shoot~ the adventure begins...

friday fav.

2012-01-13T09:49:00.000-08:00

This picture was taken in a school in Peru during my amazing missions trip there in 2007. Words cannot describe the work that God did both in and through me. I am so blessed to have been a part of the amazing team of missionaries and students we ministered with that week. It will forever impact my life.

the fullest

2012-01-12T09:40:00.000-08:00

I was thinking about resolutions yesterday. I want to live life to the fullest.. i know it sounds cliche' but it's true. I tend to get so discontent with what I don't have rather than being thankful and enjoying what I DO have. God has truely blessed Jason and I . It's time to start enjoying even the simple things in life and taking moments to soak it in.. take more pictures and not look so much at what others have, but what I have.. how blessed i truely am. I got a new camera for Christmas. What a perfect way to enjoy those special moments.. even driving down the road (I may need to consider carrying my camera with me more often). I often will be walking or drving around and see a pretty shot (especially since I got this camera). I need to take a moment to record it.. and If i don't have my camera, praise God for creating such beauty. So.. here's to a year of "The Fullest"

This past Saturday, the sunset was beautiful- I stopped to savor...

partaaay !! ~ 9 yr old style

2012-01-11T07:44:00.000-08:00

this is Hailey's slumber party {she's my 9 year old cousin}

these are the party planners: cousin Heather, her sister Nikki
and their mom Patty

Role Reversal

the guests

there was fondue

and lots of goodies to turn any girl into a pretty pretty princess

the stylings of a 4 year old

just a touch of pink on Grandma's eyelids...

perfection!

friday fav.

2012-01-06T06:56:00.000-08:00

Ok,i'm starting a new tradition. I love sharing my memories and a post without pictures just doesn't seem right. I must have been one of those kids who prefered a book with lots of pictures over lots of words (still am) Every Friday I will display a favorite picture or memory associated with it. I have been taking pictures since I was a kid, so I can guarantee I will have plenty of memories to share.

So here we go.. the inaugural photo- While it's not the best photo, it definately makes up for it in sentiment. This picture was taken the day before my wedding, October 1, 2010. For the first time, all of my best friends in the whole wide world were in the same room, to stand up as bridesmaids in my wedding. This was the bridesmaid's luncheon and spa day at mom and dad's house in Memphis. I love these women with all of my heart!

(L to R- starting at the top) Candice, Me, April, Jennie, Kerri, Jennifer- OK, now that i've posted, i'm thinking of other great memories with the prescious women to share- i will have to practice patience I guess..

afternoon at the nature center

2012-01-04T09:43:00.000-08:00

i'm definately becoming obsessed with anything and everything that displays my pictures in a creative way. I absolutely can't wait to go back out for another shoot! I just made a new blog christacaptures.blogspot.com so I can highlight my budding hobby . Hopefully someday it will be more than a hobby. Over Christmas vacation Jason and I went to the Springfield Nature Center. Here are a few of my favorite shots from that day.

2012- i'm determined to make it a good one

2012-01-03T12:08:00.000-08:00

The new year has come and gone and i'm a happy girl. I'm trying to figure out exactly why i'm not suffering from my normal post Christmas is over blues. Hummm.. maybe because i'm content in the now and excited about what is to come. Normally I need something like a trip or big event to get me looking ahead with excitement, but not this time. I'm not down in the dumps that the holidays are over. I know this year is going to be good.. i feel it in my spirit. I'm excited about the new opportunities that Jason and I have.. Starting Sunday (officially) Jason and I will be taking charge of the kids on Sunday nights- Club Connection. We are sharing the role of children's pastors with another couple about our age. IT's a great way to start out in ministry- just enough responsibility.. not too much. We know that God has good things in store.

I also got an AHHMAZING gift from Jason. (well, many ahhhmazing gifts) but this one in particular. He bought me a really nice camera. I've been wanting to take up photography as more of an active hobby and the goal is to someday make money at it. I went out for the first time the other day with the girl who sold Jason the camera. She is actually the same girl/ same camera who took some of our wedding pics. (i love the sentiment) We went to this georgous park here in Springfield and she modeled for me. I had a BLAST! Not once was I bored or wondered what time it was. I have found my niche! =) I can't wait to get out there and practice some more. I will post my first session on here as soon as I can get my computer to stop acting studpid. I have some pics. i'm pretty proud of. In the meantime, here are a couple mobile moments from the holidays- definately cherished memories. =) Happy New Year

We went ice skating on New Year's Eve- neither one of us fell- impressed?

Jason and his adorable cousin James- this was his 6 year old birthday party on New Years Eve. We love James!

Merry Christmas from Springfield, Mo.~ an event

2011-12-22T09:58:00.000-08:00

Last night we officially made a favorite activity into a tradition. We got some friends and a couple of family members together and went caroling on the 7th floor at St. John's hospital. This is their pediatric floor. Last year is when this tradition started. My wonderful husband was the one to initiate and coordinate the whole thing. We went to a couple of nursing homes and to St. John's as well. Jason put together some songs and put them in books and we all gathered, decked in our santa hats and christmassy paraphanaila. Good times! I got a little emotional at one point (suprise suprise) when multiple families were gathered in the hallway to listen. A wonderful night that Jason and I will be sure to make a yearly event.

our niece Hannah and Nephew Devon came along- we treated them to hot chocolate ala Micky D's. They have a yummy peppermint hot chocolate

our soundtrack for the evening aka an early Christmas present from Jason- (he scored BIG points on that one)

Merry Christmas! from Springfield, MO.

2011-12-16T12:12:00.000-08:00

May I present: Jason and Christa's Charlie Brown Tree- Christmas 2011.

from my blackberry's point of view...

2011-12-14T09:34:00.001-08:00

today i want to take a moment to share some some highlights from the recent months. All through the lens of my blackberry..

one of my very best friends, Mrs. Kerri Sagraves, journeyed from Knoxville, Tn. with her sweet family in November. This is her daughter, Lizzie, enjoying some "Mickey Mouse Club" in the comfort of our living room. This was their first visit. =)

i know.. this is a little random.. i mainly posted this pic. because i think my husband looks HOTT in it... That's all.

this crab fest was in honor of Jason recieving his official license to be a minister for the Assemblies of God~ SO PROUD! Jason caught the attention of many as he downed 2.5 lbs. of crab legs. It was truely a sight to behold! he was a happy boy!

every year at the Indiana Visitors Center they do a display of windows featuring scenes from the movie "The Christmas Story" this was Jason's first visit and one of my favorite scenes- when Flick gets his tongue frozen to the flag pole- "I double dog dare ya!"

uncle Mark came over one morning while we were visiting for Thanksgiving and made us breakast- but not just breakfast, his famous "hash cookes"- my FAVORITE!

my cousin Robin got married over the Thanksgiving weekend. I have always had a good relationship with her and her sister, Elizabeth. It was a beautiful wedding!

Merry Christmas! from Springfield, MO.

2011-12-09T08:29:00.000-08:00

I've decided to start a mini series. This will be my first Christmas in Springfield. So each Friday (hopefully) leading up to Christmas, I will post a picture capturing this momentous occasion. Here's my first installment...

this house has the coolest light display- Mike Bagwell is just a local
citizen who wants to spread Christmas cheer to the community. As you drive
by, you can tune your radio to a certain station and the lights are set
to the music- super cool and super fun!- ps- Jason took this photo- he done good! =)

black friday- the experience

2011-12-08T13:06:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year! I can’t get enough of the sights, the sounds, the smells.. I love coming up with gifts for family and friends.. and picking out that very special gift for that very special person. This year I went the extra mile for my husband.. I stood in line on Black Friday for a special midnight door buster. That’s right.. I stood in the cold for an hour and a half so I could buy Jason a Play Station 3 for half price. It was quite the experience.. let me tell ya. Apparently PS3’s were in high demand this year because just about every store had it for this same price. We tried Wal-Mart first (they opened the earliest at 9:00 pm) except the store was completely disorganized and little did I know, that you had to have a ticket to get one and by the time we got there.. all the tickets were gone. You know when one of the members of management complains that they are disorganized, then you’re in for it!! On our way out, one of the managers pleaded with everyone to stay calm and respect other customers. WOW! There’s your sign, it’s time to GO! There were reports of fighting over mixers and people diving into bins of towels so my choice to bring my teeny mother seemed to be the poor choice. When we reached the registers, a woman standing in line recognized us but we didn’t recognize her. (we were in Chicago) We figured she goes to grandpa’s church. Anyway.. we told her that we had struck out and she saved the day by telling us of three other places that had the same deal. Two (Target and Game Stop) were in the same shopping center, so we decided to head over there. Did I mention we got lost on our way over?! Haha!! We ended up driving in circles until we got directions from a nice EMS worker and mom’s GPS FINALLY started working properly.

This is actually the line at Target, it was stretching down the sidewalk in front of the line I was lucky to be waiting in instead.

When we finally got to the shopping center, Target had a line out the door about a block long and Game Stop had 4 people waiting..I picked the obvious choice. Before I made my decision to wait in the cold, I asked the people already waiting what they were out to buy. I was not about to wait in line for an hour and a half in the cold only to walk away empty handed. Only one of them were there for the PS3 so I knew I was safe. Mom decided it was too cold, so I waited in line while mom sat in the car. She even called for backup. I was not prepared to wait in the cold (I thought Wal-Mart would be a breeze- HA!!) Dad arrived about 30 minutes into the wait with blankets and a hat. – Bless him!! He hung out for a little while and chatted with me and mom. It is much better waiting when you have a buddy. Finally, about 15 minutes before midnight, a game stop employee came out and took our names and what we were waiting on. He then proceeded to give us numbered tickets and informed us that our merchandise would be behind the counter- VICTORY! So the moral of the story is: Wear warm clothes on Black Friday and have a Plan B… maybe even a C, D, and F. If it weren’t for the lady in Wal-Mart that we didn’t know.. I would probably have nothing.

I can’t wait to see the look on Jason’s face! =)

a glimpse..

2011-12-05T11:11:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend, Jason and I were in the Children's Christmas Musical at church. I played the part of Grandma Betty and Jason was Henry Olson- the church janitor/pastor. It was super fun to dress up in our cheesy outfits and spray our hair gray. Jason, as usual, hammed it up and talked the talk and walked the walk all weekend. The musical was about some kids that go back in time and visit different decades for their Church's annual Christmas Caroling outreach. Of course there were different songs for each decade all with the Christmas message in them. We had a blast! We definately got somewhat of a glimpse of what we could look like as oldies. Mom and dad came from Memphis to see us along with Jason's parents and grandparents.

This is me and Grace- she played a younger version Grandma Betty. I called her "mini-me" and she called me "giant- me"it was fun!

We also were offered an exciting opportunity: Starting after the first of January, we will be leading the kids services on Sunday nights. Our current kids pastors have stepped down and Jason and I will share their responsibilities with another couple. Jason and I are solely responsible for the PM services. It's an exciting opportunity to serve and minister to these kids that we've really grown to love after working with them on the musical. We are excited to see what other doors God will open..

Oh! did I mention we stayed in full costume for our lunch with the family at Houlihan's afterward?- Fun times!

i'm thankful for...

2011-12-02T12:26:00.000-08:00

~ The space heater at my desk: I work in a very open space with no carpet and lots of windows. It tends to get very chilly (especially on cloudy days, like today!)

~ My sweet husband who helped me craft last night. I took on a somewhat challenging project for a Christmas gift (that is being gifted this weekend by the way) and Jason helped me think everything through and used his carpentry skills and perfectionist ways to make the project successful. Which leads me to the third thing I’m thankful for:

~ My husband’s patience with me. ;) (especially when I’m being moody/grumpy- which were both going on last night during our crafting

~ My black hoodie- because it’s comphy, cute, and warm.

~ This sweet little gem of technology that we got recently- affectionately named "Jeffry" the GPS, and yes, I know I may be a little behind on the times, but I'm not the sort to want to spend lots of money on something like this.. so I held out until we got one as a gift- Thanks Aunt Cherie!!

~ And last but not least: ITS FRIDAY!! Have a blessed weekend ya’ll!

Punkins!!

2011-12-01T12:31:00.000-08:00

Posin'with Punkins! It really was a nice relaxing day! Jason and I drove to Memphis to celebrate mom's birthday weekend. After our poking around the farmer's market and gift shop, Jason and dad headed to the corn maze and us girls went for a manicure- a rare treat- (did I mention I demolished a bag of cajun flavored boiled peanuts?!- nope! There are good reasons there is no photo evidance of this!)

Jason and a special little punkin'- that night, we had dear friends over to mom and dad's house for chili and catching up. My friend Amy brought over her new baby, Luke. I had never seen Jason hold a baby and just had to.. here's the result- Luke fell asleep in Jason's arms and got praises from mom, Amy. Such a sweet moment!

thursday thoughts

2011-12-01T12:29:00.001-08:00

Ok..I really want to be good at blogging. I have definitely gotten sucked into the blogging world and am totally fascinated how these women can make common everyday things like cooking, decorating, and just simple moments looks so stinkin pretty and inviting. I definitely have a creative side and love sharing my life and moments with others. Maybe I just need to figure out what to focus on and put a little bit more thought into it. Being a good blogger doesn’t necessarily have to be complicated.. just needs some imagination and creativity and a good camera.. I need to be more in tune with the simple things in life and the every day moments that are special. I definitely want to chronicle my life and remember every moment. Blogging is definitely a great way to do that. Here’s one for you.. this pic. Was taken over our Thanksgiving holiday. We were inspired to take this crazy shot when we found several pairs of glasses in Nana’s drawer. Good times!

Happy Thanksgiving!- Love, Mr. and Mrs. Waln

one year wonderfulness

2011-10-26T13:30:00.000-07:00

Earlier this Month, Oct. 2 to be exact, Jason and I celebrated our 1 year wedding anniversary. Considering we honeymooned 45 minutes away from home, we were able to visit some of the same places we enjoyed on our honeymoon in Branson, MO. I absolutely love my husband with all of my heart at soul. He is truly God’s gift to be-my long-awaited prince. God is faithful! I can’t wait to see what more God for us in our journey..

A bike ride through Dogwood Canyon- one of our favorite activities from our Honeymoon.

we stopped for a picnic lunch next to a beautiful stream. We ate cheese and crackers and summer sausage- yum!

after our bike ride we went to "Branson Landing" an outdoor mall on the Taneycomo river. We shopped around, ate frozen yogurt then changed clothes and enjoyed a steak dinner out on the patio overlooking the lake and this super cool fire and light show.

it got a little chilly! =)

but me and my handsome man had a wonderful day together celebrating

our recent shenanigans.. (mobile version)

2011-10-18T12:27:00.001-07:00

One of the many activities of our 1 year wedding anniversary celebration- The Lion King- 3D!

Jason wears a skirt- I mean.. a Kilt. He stood as best man in a friend's scottish themed wedding- he totally pulls it off, don't ya think? The man would be handsome in a potato sack!

The groom's daughter, Raya, helped Jason study for his Greek test the next day. She did really well and it was super cute.

Mini golf with some cuties- Alex and Elizabeth (also known as Bitsy)- their parents are new friends of ours and we had a blast spending a Saturday night with this sweet family

My big kid couldn't resist climbing aboard. He's a cutie too!

Alex and Bitsy wanted to ride with us to get Ice Cream. We read a story on the way over. Being around such great kids definately made us excited for our own someday...

new perspective.

2011-09-15T14:55:00.000-07:00

I found this post on one of my favorite sites. It's definately a prayer I need to pray often. Live in love!

Dear Lord, I want to process everything I face in life through the filter of Your love. I know You love me. But sometimes it’s just hard to understand the circumstances that come my way. I find myself consumed with trying to figure things out rather than looking for Your perspective and trusting You. Thank You for this new way to look at things. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Faith Over Feelings

2011-09-02T11:06:00.000-07:00

I get daily devos. from Proverbs 31 ministries and this one totally challenged and inspired me in this season of transition....

“…for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.” Psalm 25:5b (NIV)
I spent months working on it, with big expectations and high hopes. In the blink of an eye it was crushed. This reality tore into my heart like a jagged knife, ripping my dream into tiny little shreds. Disappointment was so great it was difficult to process my feelings. I had worked tirelessly on this project and now I felt disappointment and rejection.
Disappointment soon turned to irritation which morphed into resentment. I didn’t FEEL it was fair.
Why didn’t God answer my prayers? Why had He placed a dream in my heart only to allow it to crumble? Why had He let this happen? Why me?
I knew I needed to have a good attitude and not give up, but I did not FEEL like doing that at all!
Questions pummeled my brain. What is the use? Why try again? If God didn’t answer my prayer after all this time, why bother keep trying?
I allowed my FEELings to overtake my FAITH.
All I could think about was how this disappointment made me feel, instead of what God may be doing that my faith could not see. I felt things weren’t fair, without remembering God’s ways are best. I felt a longing for immediate results, instead of trusting God’s timing is perfect.
My feelings had gotten in the way of my faith, so I turned to Psalm 25 (NIV) for perspective. The following verses washed over my spirit.
Verse 1, “In you, LORD my God, I put my trust.”
I felt discouraged, unworthy, hopeless, rejected. So I poured my feelings and my soul out to God. And He listened.
Verse 2, “I trust in you; do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me.”
God reminded me to trust Him, not a desire or a dream. Not the world’s view. Not my abilities. Not my timeframe. Not my ideas. Trust Him alone. I prayed about my enemies—intangible feelings such as self doubt, insecurity, frustration, and discouragement.
Verse 3, “No one who hopes in you will ever be put to shame, but shame will come on those who are treacherous without cause.”
Regardless of whether or not my desires become a reality, I will not be put to shame, because God is my God. If His plans coincide with my dreams, I know He will keep His eternal promises.
Verses 4-5a, “Show me your ways, LORD, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me,”
These words stopped me in my tracks. I began to think more rationally. Why did I beat my head against a wall? Why was I consumed with anxiety and frustration? Was I allowing God to direct my paths? God gently reminded me He is the teacher, I am the student.
Verse 5b, “…for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.”
If I put my hope in my own desires and abilities, I set myself up for failure. My only hope for joy and fulfillment comes from Christ alone. Hope is found in Him, not people, a career, your husband or children, church, financial success, a carefree life, or dreams that come true.
Disappointments will happen. With God, however, we can turn those disappointments into God’s appointments to trust Him. The first step is to exercise faith over feelings.

Dear Lord, You know the hurt in my heart and the sting of disappointments I have experienced. Please help me trust You, instead of being consumed by feelings. Empower me with a faith that is stronger than my emotions. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

a real moment

2011-08-25T12:38:00.000-07:00

God, I pray that you would use this time in my life to strengthen me and to teach me contentment NO MATTER WHAT the circumstances. No matter who, what, when, where and how.. that from this day forward, you would free me from all insecurity, from self-doubt, and from lazy mindedness. I pray that you would open me up to new opportunities and to new friends. I pray that I would not try to blame others for how I feel. That I would start with me. That I wouldn’t allow people to dictate how I feel. That I would always remember that I am your child, your beautiful daughter, created for a purpose. I pray that I would live out that purpose daily with no fear. I pray that I would be open to grow and to learn and to experience things that I never have before. I pray Lord that you would renew my identity and that I would know just who and whose I am. I pray that I would be able to rise above my emotions and the attacks of the enemy. I pray that my perspective would be the right one. That I would see situations and see people as you do. I pray that you would help me to get up and get out and move forward. That I would not be content to sit and be lazy, that I would live on purpose. I would live to the fullest. That my mind and body would always be active. Lord, confirm your purpose for me. That I would see it clearly and LIVE IN it. I am sorry for my lack of faith at times. I am sorry for beating on your prescious creation. Lord, please forgive me. Help me to not be so self focused. I am yours Lord. Use me . Put people on my heart that I can minister to and show me how. Show me how I can minister and support Jason during this busy season of life. Lord, use me. Use me to reach others. Use me to be an enourager and support. Use me.. help me to be reliable and able to be depended upon. I can’t do it without you Lord. Help me to be open to new friendships. Help me to be approachable and real. I can’t do it without you. Use me. I am nothing without you Lord. I need your help. Empower me to be the woman you have called me to be.. to live out my purpose each day. I trust in your Lord. I never want to look back. Use me and help me to LIVE. I’M YOURS LORD. In you I find my confidence, in you I find my hope, in you I find my strength.

sweet memories: moments from our wedding day

2011-08-10T13:10:00.000-07:00

Ok. I know I just recently posted pics from our wedding, but I just can't help myself. (I am a newley wed after all! ) I pray that memories of our wedding day will be just as special 30 years from now. I have a feeling I will. ;)

His first time to see me...

There were SO MANY good ones that I may have to do a part two to this one..

I thank God for...

2011-08-04T09:47:00.000-07:00

a loving husband who takes care of and provides for me
a car that runs well
a family who taught me to serve the Lord
a job
health
a sweet church family
my ability to sing
my college degree
clothes on my back
plenty of food to eat
motivation to get up in the morning
ministry opportunities
a little cottage in the country
rain
the ability to go on a summer vacation
life- long friends
a new family who have opened their arms to me
safety
a safe trip to Pennsylvania
a husband who serves the Lord first
amazing mentors
life

road trip- part one

2011-08-03T14:42:00.000-07:00

After months of saving, Jason and I took on a 15 hour road trip as our first official vacation as a married couple. It was wonderful to get away! We wanted to make the best the long journey so we broke it up. We left on a Thursday and spent the night in Indianapolis. After taking an (oops!!)hour long detour we arrived in Indianapolis and crashed on my cousin Elizabeth's air mattress in the middle of her living room floor. Being on a budget is an adventure! On our way to Indy, brother Jonathan called to inform us he was also in Indy.. he took us out for Breakfas Friday morning. It was a happy little rendeauveaux. Friday we continued the drive and stopped at North Market in Columbus, OH.It was a foodie's paradise. We definately left with overstuffed bellies...

Breakfast in Indy with "bro bro" (as Jason would call him) The eggs benedict was AMAZING!

North Market- Columbus, OH. YUMMMMO!!

after indulging in the Greek stand, the polish stand, the Indian stand, and the Southern stand, we had ice cream (HE HAD GOAT CHEESE AND CHERRY MIXED WITH MILK CHOCOLATE AND i HAD PISTACHIO hONEY MIXED WITH sALTED CARAMEL) ! Yes! We were little piggies, but it was ALL WORTH IT!

2011-07-26T12:31:00.000-07:00

Ok.. so I've totally discovered the world of DIY Bloggers. All these amazingly ambitious women who are into decorating, but are on a budget blog about their adventures in homemaking. There are all kinds of amazing projects (sprucing up old furniture, painting an accent wall, recipies, and cute gift ideas) Hey! I love that kind of stuff! These sites totally motivate and inspire me to get off my lazy booty and do some crafty things around my cozy country cottage and be the best little homemaker in Rogersville. Mom works for a school and has the summers off so she was able to come for 5 days and help us do some painting (the whole house!). While some moments were somewhat stressful, the apple and sailboat wallpaper is covered up and our cozy country cottage no longer looks like a busy bachelor lived there! Here are some pics of the process...

All of these pics are from the kitchen. I wish I had more pics to share and totally meant to, but was so focused on the lovely task of painting that the camera was neglected. I would also like to share how thankful I am for a mother and husband who have the time, work ethic, and patience to paint. Wow! What would I do without them?! Probably hire someone! haha!! Sad but true! After pics. coming soon... I will admit that getting the pics on here may take a little longer than I would like due to the fact that Jason and I don't have internet at home. So bear with me. =) I am hoping the freshly painted walls will get me going on more fun DIY projects.. I could totally get into this.. i just need a good push!

sweet memories: our wedding

2011-07-15T14:01:00.000-07:00

I was so excited today when I checked out Facebook and found that our wedding photographer had published some of our pics. This inspired me to start of series of posts, "sweet memories" So here you have it, Memories of October 2, 2010, one of the happiest days of my life...

My Husband...

2011-07-13T10:05:00.000-07:00

Silly
Strong
Great sense of humor
hard working
not afraid to show his sensitive side
passionate
loves his garden
sensitive to my needs
loves cottage cheese and katsup (with everything!)
loyal to his word
makes everything more fun
talks to perfect strangers like they are his friends
loves to invent new creations in the kitchen
has the most beautiful blue eyes
makes a to do list and sticks to it
encouraging
makes my breakfast and juices every morning
is a morning person and accepts that i'm not
does everything 100%
loves with all of his heart
puts others before himself
taught himself to play the guitar
has been told he sings like a disney prince
loves dogs
taller than all his family members
doesn't let anything or anyone intimidate him
loves star track and SG-1 and doesn't mind being called a nerd for it ;)
loves to worship the Lord
has incredible focus
his favorite snack at the movies is hamburger and extra buttery popcorn
stands firm in what he believes

and so much more... I LOVE this man!

happy 4th of July from table rock lake

2011-07-07T14:14:00.000-07:00

we enjoyed two different fireworks displays- both were perfect nights- I was quite happy watching from the lake- a first- must repeat! =)

Waiting for the fireworks to begin- yep, we watched them floating in the water

can't help himeself- my man loves attention ;)

This moment cracked me up- we were attempting to exchanging floats from boat to boat- not sure if they know what they are doing..

We went tubing (our favorite) and our niece Hannah tore it up on the choppy water- impressive!

Our home for the weekend- the Waln family motorhome- a first for me. =)

my husband the fish- isn't he cute?!

Happy Memories!

inspiration

2011-06-30T08:55:00.000-07:00

They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength,they shall mount up on wings as eagles, they shall run and not grow weary, they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31-

It's been on my mind lately. What an amazing promise from the Lord! Something to hold on to. God always keeps his promises. My amazing friend Jennifer has inspired me to committ to memorizing scriptures. I have a hard time with discipline sometimes, but this is a challenge i'm committed to fulfill. I want to hide God's word in my heart. It's a priceless treasure. I am so thankful for my dear friend who helps me to keep my mind on things above- she's a beautiful woman of God.

just a day in my life...

2011-06-29T14:27:00.001-07:00

yesterday on my way home from work the clouds were so pretty! So I decided to take pictures of my country drive home. I have really come to enjoy my drives home. They are a great time to roll down the windows, sing, pray, call a friend, whatever... having a longer drive home is definately a benefit of living in the country. When I got home Jason was busy preparing for our guests: his cousin Heather, her husband Jon and their adorable daughter Madison. Jason had caught our dinner for the night. We had a fish fry (yummmmm!!) My man definately does it right. The fish were fresh from the river that day. Love it! Jason doesn't slack, he never takes the easy or the quicker way.. he does it right in everything he does. I love that about him and am inspired by it.

Reliance

2011-05-23T11:54:00.000-07:00

I find it amazing how my love for my husband grows more and more every day. He was away for the weekend at a church retreat and I felt as if a piece of me was missing. My best friend and love was gone and, while I enjoyed just a taste of alone time, I missed him! I am also amazed at how much I rely on the Lord to help me to be a good wife and a good partner and supporter of Jason. Here is this whole new person that I want to love as God would want me to love him and to support through this journey of life and I have to rely on God to show me how. It's been amazing to be in this new season and to rely on God to show me how and why and when. It's a whole new level of relying on him and it's a blast. I absolutely love this life that God has given me and I love sharing it with Jason. I feel so very blessed. I am so thankful for what I have now and can't wait to see what more he has in store. We just rely on God from day to day as our adventure unfolds. What a great privelage to be his kids. I am so thankful.

a sentimental moment

2011-05-17T10:49:00.001-07:00

I had a fun experience last night. Jason was at a meeting and I was pretty exausted after working Discipleship walk- which was wonderful. I unpacked and organized a few things and then settled on the couch with a book mom brought on her last visit to Springfield. This book was her journal from the time she found out she was pregnant with me until my birth and the weeks after. Each day was a summary of her physical pains, emotional pains, and feelings in general. She was right around my age when she had me. It was so interesting to read about her experience as a late twenty year old and her first pregnancy. She didn't know that she was having a girl. A lot of her thoughts I could relate with and I know that I appreciated it even more being about the same age, married and about to embark on the child-bearing years. Perfict timing. I sent her an e-mail and thanked her for sharing. She wants to read it again soon. I am definately inspired to do the same so maybe one day my daughter, son or even grandkids can read my experience. Definately a meaningful and sentimental experience for this sap. =) Thanks mom!

not to sound selfish...

2011-05-06T10:34:00.001-07:00

I had a lovely evening with an old friend from college last night- an old friend from college- that phrase definately makes me feel old!! Haha!! Anyway.. the owner of the company I work for sponsored a play at The Springfield Little Theater, The Foreigner, and we got free tickets to their opening night. =) Amy and I tried out a delightfuly little restaurant (I keep forgetting the name.. hold on... let me look- got it!) The Aviery. It's a prescious little french inspired creperie in downdown springfield. IT was just about a block down from the theater, so we just walked over after a deliscious time of yummy crepes (savory and dessert) and catching up. Amy is moving to Shanghai in July for two years. She is such a fun girl, she lives life to the fullest and although she is single, desiring marriage, she makes the best of it and I admire her for it. She's figured out some ways to not allow herself to get trapped in that mental torture that single girls can get caught up in.. anyway...

Last night just goes to show that not matter how little you see someone, you can alway pick right back up where you left off if they are a true friend, a true connection. Love it! I enjoyed my girl time, but missed my hubby. He is away on a job and I always feel like a part of me is missing when he is gone. The nice thing is, I will be busy getting ready for discipleship walk next weekend. That will help! I plan on having a ALL OUT ME night tonight and do some of my favorite things. I seriously need to make a list. Alone time can be theraputic. (not that i'm going thought a hard time) but it's a time just to be ME. And be reminded of who I am and what I love outside of the husband and home. (both of which I love dearly!!) So here's to a night of ME!

In honor of Mother's day..

2011-05-04T08:52:00.001-07:00

I am a sucker for the animal pics.. espically when they involve babies!! enjoy!

Two very different celebrations

2011-05-03T11:55:00.001-07:00

Yes, I am like the rest of the world, I celebrated the royal wedding in grand fashion: I had a tea party! It was dripping girly girl, complete with a silver tea set (thanks to my mother in law), hats and cucumber sandwhiches and scones. It was a lovely time. I had a few girls from church over on Friday night. We chose not to get up at 4:30 am to watch it live, no our cup of tea! ha!! Anyway... I tried to convince Jason that he should stay and dress up as our butler, but he opted out. I think it was too much girlyness for him! ha! He was really cute and supportive and happy for me to be entertaining. I love blessing others in my home. It really filled my heart with joy to have them over and be girly girls together. The wedding was a fairy tale. I loved Kate's dress and thougt she was absolutely stunning! I loved how William looked like a prince straight out of a disney movie in his military reds. Ahhhh!! I loved the historical significance of it and how it brought millions of people to celebrate what seems to be a wonderful couple and their genuine love for one another. It was a happy day to forget about the tornadoes that devestated Alabama , the floods in Memphis, or the fact that they don't think that President Obama was born in the US. Ahhh.. a sigh of relief to celebrate the positive!

The Monday after, they found and killed Osama Bin Laden and the wedding coverage took a backseat, but it sure was nice while it lasted. I've never seen so many people be so happy over the death of one man. While I understand that's a very significant victory for the US and this man is against God, There is something that just doesn't jive with me in celebrating someone's death so outwardly and joyfully. I'm just sayin... These are very interesting times we are living in... God is in control and that's where we put our hope and defiantely a cause to celebrate!

Easter Weekend Shinanigans- 2011

2011-04-25T12:45:00.000-07:00

What a weekend!! Jason and I were involved in our church's Easter prodoction which took place both Saturday night and Sunday morning. We had a practice on Friday night in the midst of a ginormous hail storm/downpour (which didn't bother me much) Severe storms don't freak me out unless I am somewhere in which I feel I am not fully secure or there aren't many people around. Being at a church never freaks me out considering the fact that it's such a large building and that there are plenty of distractions. =) Anyway... we had a big ol' potluck with lots of yummy food and then went in the Sanctuary for a time of prayer. It was so special, being good Friday and all. (not that it woulden't be special any other day, but just the significance of it). After filling our bellies to overflowing and having a wonderful time in prayer, we had a couple of run-throughs. Both went quite well considering the late date we started.

Saturday morning I got up bright and early to more rain and gloom. (the rain hasn't stopped yet from Friday) and headed to get my hair cut and colored. It was a much needed trip! The hair salon is a great way to start a busy Saturday! Around noon Jason and I headed to meet mom and dad at a local restaurant. They had come in town to see the play as well as go for dad's birthday gift- to see "Noah" at The Sight and Sound Theater in Branson. It's a live show that has live animals and panoramic views. Its' unlike any other christian production I've ever seen. (Jason and I saw a show done in the same style there at Christmas). Mom and dad went with Jason's parents. We were thrilled to have them hang out and get to know one another better. They all really seemed to enjoy the weekend. So.. we had our huge buffet of do it yourself asian food and sent them over the Jason's parents' to settle in. Jason and I had to be at church by 2:00.

The play that night went off quite well. God really anointed it and we heard several reports of how moving it was. I also really enjoyed getting to know different people involved in the cast-adults and kids alike. I made new friends of all ages! I plan on loading my pics. tonight, so they will be posted here tomorrow. =) Jason and I crashed early that night watching Finding Nemo of all things. =)

Sunday went just as well. After the play we mingled then headed home to wash off the makeup that dirtied my feet and made Jason a full beard. He had grown a goatee for the play and had some other patches of hair here and there on his face. The poor boy has too much indian blood in him and can't grow a beard to save his life. I love it! I will take a clean-shaven man any day!! Anyway.. that was the first thing he did.. shave his beard!! He and I came up with his nickname this morning: "Captain Slick-Jaw" ( At least we got a good laugh out of it! ) It's just one more reason we are perfect for one another. =)

Easter lunch at the Walns went well. This was the first time mom and dad celebrated a holiday with my new family. It made me happy to see them all mingling so well. We had an indoor Easter egg hunt (yep, day #3 of solid rain and thunderstorms). Some of the eggs even had silly things for everyone to do.. whether it be singing a silly song, doing a handstand, or breaking out the hula hoop.. it was silly, but fun and got us all laughing. =) I've got plenty of pics. of that too!!

That night, after mom and dad came over to our house with easter flowers and pictures from the show, we settled in to watch the rest of Nemo (that we totally fell asleep during) and to PIG OUT! Jason has decided to totally splurge this week after being super careful for his role as Jesus and being hung on a cross in a man-diaper. He totally deserves it!! We even did a rain-soaked run to the closest gas station for chips and coke! It was defiantely GREAT night. Hunkered down at home in our pjs, resting after a crazy weekend and pigging out.. ahhh... I can't complain. I have a pretty sweet life... =)

Melts my heart...

2011-04-19T08:01:00.000-07:00

Last night Jason and I had practice for our church's Easter musical. When we walked into the sanctuary where everyone was gathering, we could barely get down the aisle because every single adorable little girl (and a few boys) came up and jumped into Jason's arms hugging him. Oh how it melts my heart! One of the many reasons I love my man. Anytime there is a little one around Jason gives them big cheesy grins and they love it! The kids at church.. he's like their big playmate. I love it!! After the triumphial scene in the play, there is a part where Jason is sitting on a stool (as Jesus) and the kids all come up to him (let the little children come unto me part) and hug him and play with him. Then a little girl, (who he's supposed to just have raised from the dead) sits on his lap and sings a sweet song "I love you Jesus." PRESCIOUS! This woman's heart melts EVERYTIME! I always make sure to stand somewhere I can see!! It's gotta be my fav. part of the musical! He's a natural.. he will definately be an AMAZING father someday. =)

2011-04-18T11:00:00.000-07:00

Ready.. set... aaaand... GO!! It's gonna be one of those weeks.. a busy/wonderful week. Jason and I are both in the Easter musical at church and we have practice just about every night this week. Yaaay!! I love this kind of stuff! =) It's busy and yes, tiring, but it's all for God's glory and it's a rare opportunity.. something not so everyday and something bigger to be a part of. Jason and I practically spent the whole weekend helping the music pastor and his family paint and build sets. It felt so good to help them out. They are newer to the church and are still building their base of volunteers they can count on. We enjoyed getting to know them better, helping ease their stressed minds, and even going out for dinner with them afterwards. They have sweet kids too.. kids that we would love to speak into. That was basically our Saturday.. practicing and helping for the Easter muscial. REWARDING if you ask me. =) I also was thrilled to have lunch with an old friend, Jessica, from Evangel. She brought her adorable (and very well-behaved) 1yr old boy Gabe. We just picked up right where we left off. It was so great to have a friend to connect with on all levels.. i'm very much still looking for that here. It will take time. I know this. I'm very content in this season of new.. a new husband (in whom i devote most of my time and energy) a new church, new friends, a new house to keep up with.. a new way of life. It's been wonderful. I also want to take a moment to praise the Lord for turning a stressful discussion between Jason and I into something positive and what grew us. There are definately a lot of learning/growing situations in a new marriage and it's exciting (and stressful at times) but it's all a part of life. It's what God knew would happen. Jason and I took a step back and gave thanks to God for walking us through that stressful convo. and turning something that Satan wanted to trip us up with, into good. GOD IS SO FAITHFUL. It's all about keeping God at the center. I know without a doubt that our stresses (every single one of them) are diffused and resolved with peace because we put our trust in God first. He is the bedrock of our marraige and for that I am so thankful. Thank you Lord!!

Admitting a weakness..

2011-04-14T08:29:00.000-07:00

I'm starting piano lessons tonight and i'm part excited part nervous. I definately don't want to make a fool of myself. I've had SOME experience but it's been FOREVER!! I definately feel that this desire to pick it back up comes from the Lord. I definately want to use this skill for his glory. I know he will give me the strength and the motivation to practice. That's my issue.. practice. Maybe my SUPER MOTIVATED husband will help me out and hold me accountible.. yeah.. that's it!! he can help! isn't that what marriage is about.. balancing one another out.. encouraging one another.. lifting the other up when they are feeling weak in an area. See, I know myself well enough to realize that practicing something has never been one of my strong suites. Lord, I pray that you will change my ways in the area.. i pray that you would help me to excel and to be motivated. I dedicate this skill to you and pray that you would help me to be excellent in all that I do.

Have a Groovy Tuesday!

2011-04-12T07:02:00.000-07:00

Everyday living

2011-04-11T08:58:00.000-07:00

Ok.. so my weekend: Part relaxing, part productive, and part busy= a great weekend!! =) Jason and I were so excited to have a Saturday where we could sleep in and be productive. The past several Saturdays we've had to make an early trip into town (yes, i'm a country girl now) for Easter musical practice. We got to enjoy a relaxing morning in which we pretty much stuck to our routine (but more laid back)- Coffee and lounge on the couch, morning prayer and devos with the hubby, and then( dun dun dun- {scary music} ) P90X, our amazing/intense workout program. This is an hour long of hard core weight and cardio training that we've been doing each morning for the past 3 months or so. We both wanted to fight the 1st year of marraige weight that we were already putting on and Jason found out that he would be crucified (playing Jesus in our Church's Easter musical) in April. This was the deciding factor: he would not stand for hanging on a cross in a man-diaper in front of his whole church with a muffin top.. so.. we made the P90 committment. Anyway... Saturday's workout was kem po. It's a fun way to get cardio in and feel like you are "bad to the bone" as Jason would call it. He likes to poke fun at me because he says my karate moves are "bad to the bone" and everyone needs to watch out when i'm kickin and punching.. haha!! Anyway.. Kem po is definately more fun than some of the other workouts. We both dread the yoga mornings- yep.. it's 1.5 hours of hardcore yoga! Yikes!! Super hard!! We have yet to get through the whole thing. And no, it's not cause we're wimpy or not strong enough (at least this is what we tell ourselves), it's simply that we don't want to get up at 4:30 am just so we can get this extra long session in!! Anyway.. After Kem Po we sat down to Jason's favorite breakfast (and becoming mine too) of Eggs and Cottage cheese. =) We had yard work to do and wanted to be good and built up. It was a beautiful, yet typically windy day, and we were both itching to get outside. I had just bought some flowers to brighten up the front of our cozy cottage and he had some mowing and cleaning to do. It was fun.. Jason and I, working in the yard. I did the weeding and cleaning of the flower beds. I must say.. I enjoyed it.. just being out in the sunshine. Although, I don't know if my age is starting to kick in (yep, I'll be 30 in July!!) or I pulled a muscle during Kem PO, but I have a nasty sore spot on the back of my upper leg... OUCH!! I feel it with every move. =( Anyway.. we got a lot done outside and around the house. I even made some bananna bread Yum! I felt bad though, bananna bread is one of Jason's favs. and he has cut out all carbs so he can be extra lean for his play. I know it was a huge tease. He did get to lick the bowl.. and we works so hard.. he deserves it!! The man has been eating salads just about every day!! That's dedication! I know it was a huge tease for him. He's stronger than I am! Anyway.. after our work day, we cleaned up and headed back to town for Justin's b-day party with the fam. Justin is our brother-in-law. One of the many things I do appreciate about Jason's family is that they always take time to celebrate birthdays as a family. I've never had that due to the fact that all my family lives in different states. We went to applebee's for dinner and then to Mimi's for cake and presents. It was a beautiful spring evening and we enjoyed sitting on the back porch afterward while our bellies digested. Ahh!! it was nice. =) Sunday was pretty normal for us lately.. we headed to Mimi's after church, raided her fridge for lunch (mimis are good for that) and napped in her guest room. We live too far to go all the way home when we have to be back at church by 3:00. Our Easter practice went well. After practice we headed home after a long day and went for a walk then a movie. I'm really loving life with Jason. We didn't do anything to extreme or out of the ordinary,but I just loved the weekend.. just living life with the love of my life. Ahhh!! Sweet sweet days. A sweet season. Thank you Lord! I am truely blessed!

New Endeavor

2011-04-07T12:49:00.000-07:00

Ok.. so i'm excited!! (i'm writing this in purple because it's just a purply kinda day) I just set it up with a lady in our church, Mary, to take some piano refresher courses. =) It's been on my heart for a while now to get brushed up on my skills. I haven't taken lessons since like 7th grade or so.. so it should be interesting! (this is where mom could insert "I told you that you would regret it if you quit") Well.. I totally do and i'm proud of myself for taking the first step to finally re-learning. I am hoping to be able to use this as another gift that I offer back to the Lord. So we'll see how this goes.. I truely believe there is a purpose to this desire. Wish me luck!!

My attempt

2011-04-06T14:11:00.000-07:00

I've been given a challenge and it's time to take it seriously...my dear friend Jennifer came up with the challenge to memorize a scripture per month. You would think that would be easy.. one measly scripture.. well.. not for this girl!! I think I lack the discipline! Well.. no longer!! I'm going to start fresh and begin again with this verse for the month of April.. Wish me luck!! Colossians 2: 6-7 (I keep looking at the verse, but am attempting to memorize chunks as I write) And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built into Him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught and you will overflow with thankfulness.

Building

2011-04-06T08:36:00.000-07:00

Hello. I am so glad to be blogging again.. while some days I am feeling too lazy to write creatively, I know it's good for me. I am noticing that my my is more oiled.. i'm thinking more quickly and I am coming up with funnier things. I also attribute that to my husband.. my confidence it definately on top due to his sweet affirmations and treating me like a queen. Anyway.. I know that someday I will look back on these thoughts, some insightful, some random and smile.. "I remember that" or "Wow! how narrow-minded was I?!" Or "Thank you Lord for answering that prayer!" No matter what.. i will be in a different season and will enjoy looking back and remembering my life when I was a 29 year old newleywed with no kids. Just this morning, as I was doing my daily calculating of time cards here at Springfield Striping and Sealing. I noticed that many of the crew members (who are called in to work based on the weather) had like no hours last week (it was cold and rainy) and have random hours this week. Some of them didn't even get paid last week. What about their families? I am so very thanful to have grown up in a home where my parents expected me to go to college and make somethig of myself. I am thankful for a steady job that pays the bills and allows me freedom to have weekends off and go on the occasional trip. Praise God for providing Jason multiple jobs with his woodworking. We are in a building time.. we are focusing on saving, not spending.. and on paying off debts. We want to be stable, both in our finances and in our marital relationship.. established.. We want to build a firm foundation for our kids. I just praise the Lord for his provision and his faithfulness. He is so good!! It's so refreshing to be doing what we know the Lord has called us to do and having success and fulfillment. What a privelage to be a child of God!

Six Months and Counting..

2011-04-04T13:20:00.000-07:00

THIS WAS THE NOTE I GOT IN THE LUNCH THAT HE PACKED FOR ME TODAY (HE PACKS THE LUNCH EVERYDAY)

I'm taking another moment to brag on my incredible hubby... We celebrated 6 months on Saturday. I can't believe how quickly those months have flown by! It's been such a natural transition from singleness to being married. I believe it's beacause Jason and I were both ready. God is pretty cool when it comes to the timing thing. So anyway.. I got off early from work on Friday (my boss is pretty cool). I texted Jason to let him know. Mr. cool played it off so well.. (little did I know he was at home cooking a gourmet dinner for the occasion). He suggested I go an pick out a gift for our brother-in-law, Justin. So.. I happily accepted the challenge (being the shopper girl I am). I ran to the other side of town that I don't see on a regular basis and hopped around to several discount stores. I also had the joy of picking out a pretty organizer for our little desk corner. I love me some organizing!! Anyway.. It really couldn't have worked out more perfectly.. I ended up getting home just in time for Jason to have completed his master plan.. there it was.. a table with beautiful pink and green springy bouquet, along with yummy halibut and green beans, an asian dish he had learned to cook on the Food network. Ahh.. I love this man!! He also had a sweet card that made me cry. (he always does that) I can't say too many good things about this man.. this man who's grown to be my best friend and my favorite person. I want to say i'm lucky, but I know Jason is a gift from the Lord. Which is due to many prayers (both mine and dear prayer warrior friends and family) and to the fact that I stuck to my picky self and WAITED on the right man and the right time. Thank you Lord for this man.. for this amazing gift you have given me. I pray that would bless us and keep us and allow us to continue to fall deeper and deeper in love.. just as you designed a marriage to be. Build US- a firm foundation that will make a stable, Godly home for our children and for our ministry. Lord, I pray that this Love, this passion, and this newness will continue on and never get dull. Show us ways to keep that alive. I know that you intended for marriage to be fulfilling, exciting, and treasured. Make is so Lord.

GOD’S GREAT INTENTION FOR HIS PEOPLE

2011-03-31T11:16:00.000-07:00

I got this e-mail from my mom this morning.. something to make us all think. I love the challenge of being more like Christ, reflecting who he really is and living authentically. Be blessed and challenged by these thoughtful words. David Wilkerson Today THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 I believe God has had but one great intention for his people ever since the cross and it will not change until Christ returns in glory. God's intention has to do with understanding the mystery of the gospel, revealed first to Paul the apostle. It is a mystery no longer. Paul said, "By revelation [God] made known to me the mystery...which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed...by the Spirit…. And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery..." (Ephesians 3:3-9). The mystery revealed is simply this: Christ's body is still here on earth! The head is in heaven but the rest of his body is right here on earth. We who love and serve him are his body, the visible part, which men see of Christ on earth. "For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones" (Ephesians 5:30). "And he is the head of the body, the church..." (Colossians 1:18). God's full intention for these last days can be summed up in this one sentence: Being that we are Christ's body on earth, God's intention is that every member become a true expression of who Christ is! God intends for us to express such a complete fullness of Christ that any sinner can see in us the Lord Jesus Christ as surely as if he once again walked here in the flesh. We are to appropriate so much of his fullness, his glory, his completeness that the world will see in us the hope and answers to their needs. It is not enough to know Christ. We must be a full expression of who he is! We must look at everything we say and do and ask: "Does this represent who Christ is? Is this what I want the sinner to see of him, through me?" Would Christ, in his physical body, walk into an X-rated theater? Would he linger around a pornography counter? Would Christ abuse his body in any way? Would he indulge in adultery, fornication, drinking? Would he cheat, gossip, tell dirty stories, or lie? Would Christ live a lie, then attempt to preach the truth? Would he try to spread the light with a pocket of darkness in his own heart? Would he tell others not to commit adultery, then do it in secret himself? We must continually keep before our eyes this one great intention of God—that we his body reflect honestly and purely who he is! Set your heart on being a true expression of who Jesus Christ is.

Smile for the day

2011-03-30T10:56:00.000-07:00

I can't get enough of the cutesy/cheesy animal pics!! My sweet mother in law sent these to me earlier and they totally brought a smile to my face.. i hope they do the same for you!

A Thankful Heart

2011-03-28T08:16:00.000-07:00

I just want to take a moment to praise God for his many blessings. God has been nothing but faithful to me and it's so exciting to see his faithfulness extended to the WE. It's a whole new realm of blessings and I get emotional just anticipating the thought of God's blessings to come. I have no doubt in my hear that they will come. I fall more in love with my wonderful husband daily. And in the process.. more in love with God. It's hard to explain, but sometimes I don't even realize where the "deeper" comes from. Jason and I joke about little silly things that make us go "deeper" Last night we were watching our fav. shows that we've dvr'd and he proclaimed to me that I would go deeper when I watched the recorded show "Stargate Atlantis" that featured a special guest star- the Chairman from Iron Chef!! haha!! Jason and I get a kick out of his over-dramatic kung foo moves on the show... it's really just one of the many reasons he is my Bff. Love it!! =) So anyway.. I just want to praise you Lord for your many blessings.. the big and the small.. the crazy/silly/ serious things that make me go deeper with this man you have blessed me with and for blessing us.. for providing.. for loving for always being there. I love you Lord!

being a woman

2011-03-25T14:00:00.001-07:00

Jason and I were doing our morning devos this morning from 1 Peter 3. (We are following a plan in our bibles that takes us through the bible in a year). 1 Peter 3 says this:

1 Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, 2 when they see the purity and reverence of your lives. 3 Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. 4 Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. 5 For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to adorn themselves. They submitted themselves to their own husbands, 6 like Sarah, who obeyed Abraham and called him her lord. You are her daughters if you do what is right and do not give way to fear.

I am by no means suggesting here that Jason doesn't obey the word.. I think that behaving in a pure and gentle and obedient spirit, following God's word, can be an example to your husband, your family, your friends. God made man and woman and he created us to fill certain roles within a marriage and as man and woman. I believe the inside should shine through and as women, we should always be striving to please the Lord, submit to him and then submitting to our husbands will be just as rewarding. My husband serves the Lord. There is another portion of scripture that talks about husbands submitting to the Lord and wives submitting to their husbands as unto the Lord. Wow!! What a cool thing to think about. I pray that I would be this woman. That I would submit to God first in all that I do. Jason and I are spiritually bonded as well and we both strive to be obedient to the Lord and to his word. (I love it when that man pulls out the highlighter during our bible studies- makes me looooove him so much) I want to be this submissive woman.. not in a meek and timid way, but in a biblical way. Lord, show me how to be this woman. Continue to grow me in this area.. i want to obey your word and become more and more the woman you created me to be. Thank you Lord. Let it be so!!

Stuff I like (some I love)

2011-03-24T13:36:00.001-07:00

Tuesday's thoughts- that's all.

2011-03-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

Hi! Another windy day here in Springfield Mo. Gotta love it! I know that Spring is coming... the trees are starting to bloom and i'm seeing some flowers pop in here and there. I will say, winter seems to be hanging on a little longer here than in Memphis. I'm suprised i'm not seeing more green. Anyway...

Things are picking up in our life. Jason and I are both involved in the Passion Play at church. Jason is playing the role of Jesus which I must brag: he takes quite seriously. He's been making sure to be in good shape for the part where he has to be half dressed on the cross. He also watches DVD's about the life of Jesus that are totally filled with scripture. I woke up Sunday morning and he was sitting on the couch with his notebook intently watching the "beatitudes" scene. I love his passion and intensity to put all he has in everything he does. He played the role last year (I could literally say "Jesus is my boyfriend"- that was fun! =) He was amazing at it! He's got the look.. dark curly hair, bright blue eyes.. (yummy). The only thing he lacks is his ability to grow out a full fledged beard. Thanks to his native american heritage- he's never been able to grow much facial hair. (i'm not complaining!)

I also have a part as a crowdsperson, and possibly a really powerful solo during the scene where Mary washes Jesus' feet. (our directors have been a little indecisive).

We are also going to both be involved in leadership on an intensive weekend retreat focusing on God and his love. The preparation for this retreat will involved weekly meetings. Jason and Christa will be busy! yaay! =) God is so faithful and I always love being a messenger of his love. I pray that I can do this to the best of my ability and grow in my own walk in the process. We should always be growing in our christian walk. If we should stop, there's trouble. I praise God for the privelage of being his child and being brought up in a home that honors him and taught me to live according to his commands.

Jason and I are privelaged to have the time and desire to build our strong foundation, together in Christ, to have a strong, God-fearing family some day. I know i've jumped all over, but isn't that what blogging is all about.. sharing? Thanks for letting me share here. I hope I can be an encouragement to someone today.

MY MAN

2011-03-18T12:14:00.000-07:00

ALWAYS HAVING A GOOD TIME-HAMMIN IT UP! =)

My man comes home today!! He's been gone for a whole week, which makes it the longest we've been apart since we've been married!! ahh!! At first it was kinda nice to have extra "me" time, but after about a day, i was ready for him to come home!! This man brings me so much joy!! God knew exactly what I needed.

He's been in Chicago for the week.. taking time to fix up Grandpa's house- making some much needed repairs. Grandpa was diagnosed in December with Alzheimers. He wandered outside one bitterly cold night and decided to make the front yard his bed for a few hours. He ended up with frostbite and was taken to a nursing home where he is getting much better care. So, Jason is helping my family fix his house to be sell-worthy. It will take multiple trips and it's definately a blessing. I am thrilled that Jason had the change to not only help my family out, but also to bond with my dad, aunt and uncle and even grandpa. He and dad went to the nursing home a couple of times to visit and Jason was able to pray with him. It was definately a moment I would have loved to be a part of. Jason is one of those guys that melds in with everyone he meets and makes the atmosphere a littl e more fun. He has such a great way with people. Everyone warms up to him right away and he has such a great spirit about him.. never a dull moment! I love that!!

I am so so blessed by this wonderful man! He was worth ALL the waiting. I am so glad that I didn't settle!! Thank you Lord for my wonderful husband.

Above are some pictures from Jason, Dad, and family friend Ed's trip to the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. Jason was a true tourist and took lots of great pics! I can just imagine him wandering the museum with his camera around his neck! =) He's gonna be that kind of dad someday.. always taking pics/ videos.. with that camera around his neck. Makes me smile.

Thank you Lord! I am so very blessed!!

Gotta Catch up...

2011-03-16T08:30:00.001-07:00

Jason Loves Kids

This is he and his niece Madison- they were wrestling! Sooo cute!

This picture was taken

the day after we got engaged-

Jason carved our names on THE SPOT-

shhhhh!! don't tell the Germantown park people!

2011-03-14T12:26:00.000-07:00

Let the madness begin.. i've decided to join a very elite group of women. It's called "Scrapbooking Divas" (totally made that up, but you get what i'm trying to say, right? ) I had some Christa time on Saturday afternoon and decided to start down the great path that many picture/craft lovers go down. I went to a recent scrapbook night and won a little kit to get me started. My first project will envolved preserving the memories of dating and getting engaged to my handsome hubby, Jason. I've had a great time so far.. re-living the memories and digging deep into my creative abilities (not too deep) This is just the warm up for the much anticipated Wedding Album! I want to do it right, I want to make it beautiful and have every cool scrapbooking gadget possible for this great endeavor. Wish me luck!!

I'm baaaaaaaack!!!!!

2011-03-09T09:22:00.000-08:00

Ok.. i've been reminded by my blogger extrodinaire friend, Jennifer Goodwin, that a blogging world even exists... wow! It's been FOREVER!! I will have to blame my life in general.. particularly a certain man named Jason Nicholas Waln, my new husband, best friend and love of my life. Wow!! How to even start... Jason and I got married Oct. 2, 2010. And had a wonderful beautiful wedding full of God and friends and family that love us. I am not living in Springfield, Mo. and working at a local asphalt striping, paving, etc. etc. company. Great place to work.. great people.. God has provided yet again.

I can't say enough about how i absolutely loooove being married and loving and serving my husband Jason and running our home together. We live about 20 min. outside of town, Rogersville, to be exact. Yes, this city girl lives in the country and loves it!! We park right up next to the house in the grass. We have a lovely burn pile, an old worn out pig farm and a garden. It's wonderful! I love having land, quiet, and no neighbors peering in the windows. Springfield is such a wholesome, safe place.. nothing like Memphis!

I also have a whole new family.. a new mom, dad, older sister, brother, a niece, a nephew, a new mimi and a pops, uncle and aunt and new cousins. Wow!! Lots of new huh? I believe the best way to catch up would be through pictures.. gotta get on that! For now.. I"m baaaaack!! I will do my very best to keep you posted... pictures to come!!!

It's over!!

2009-12-15T14:16:00.000-08:00

Well.. I made it.. by the skin of my teeth, but I made it. I survived my Chemistry class. I took the final today. I'll have to admit, I didn't give it my all and I regret that, but I took the class and learned just how difficult those sciences can be! The scary thing is... I have several more chemistry type classes to take!! Can someone invent that do hickie that they had on "The Matrix" where the humans (or whatever) were hooked to machines and all info. was downloaded? I'll take one of those please! It just comes down to me cuttin' out the stuff that i"ve always loved and indulged in and putting 100% into going back to school. It's really what this will take unfortunately. It's kidna like breaking a bad habit.. I've never had very good study skills and I almost feel that I have to learn to study on this level and do it the right way. School, aside from the Lord, needs to be my #1 priority. I like to think though, that I can find a balance.. between my classes and my social life etc. etc. I know this balance can be found.. I just need to learn to do it. I'm still considerably young and don't want to miss out. I know it will be all worth it in the long run. I know that occupational therapy is a profession that the Lord has put on my heart. I know he will give me the strength and the persistance and the discipline to get through, but I also need to do more of the work myself. Lesson learned. God will bless my efforts. For now though.. I'm done! Praise be to the Lord! Now I can focus on lovin' and livin' out the joys of Christmas.

Busy- Challenges- Fun!

2009-12-08T14:55:00.000-08:00

My mind is so full of thoughts today that I don't even know where to begin. This is the week of our church Christmas production. I am a part of the "Show choir" and we have rehearsals every night. Tonight.. no rehearsal.. so glad for that. I'm using my free time to get my roots done.. and they are in desperate need of color!!!! It will definitely perk things up on my head. =)

I absolutely looove being a part of muscials. I love the singing.. the choreography.. even the stressful rehearsals.. it's all so fun! I just get so much energy from being a part of something like this. So many people complain about the long hours but it's just fun! It's a step out of the ordinary.. a chance to use the gifts that God has given us to entertain and hopefully minister to others. I pray for many diving moments as we share the story of "The Christmas Window."

I've had a few other challenges this week that take up my thoughts and energy. The first is ending my Chemistry class.. yikes! I'm just not talented in this area so that explains itself. The other.. well.. lets just say that I'm having trouble communicating with someone who doesn't know how to communicate. The Lord opened a door for me to kindly address the issues that needed to be addressed there. He is faithful! I know that God works all things for the good of those who love him. I can't wait to see what more he has in store and how he will work in these challenges I face. I have no doubt the outcome will be positive and bigger and better than I ever hoped for or imagined!

My theme song!!!

2009-12-07T14:39:00.000-08:00

(chorus)I’m not going back, I’m moving aheadI’m here to declare to you, my past is over
In You, old things are made newSurrendered my life to ChristI’m moving.. moving forward
(verse)What a momentYou have brought me toSuch a freedomI have found in YouYou’re the Healer
Who makes all things newYeah! Yeah! Yeah!—–
(chorus)I’m not going back, I’m moving aheadI’m here to declare to you, my past is overIn You, old things are made newSurrendered my life to ChristI’m moving.. moving forward!—
(verse)You have risenWith all power in Your HandsYou have given meA second ChanceHallelujah, Hallelujah!
Yeah Yeah Yeah!Yeah Yeah Yeah!
(chorus)I’m not going back, I’m moving aheadI’m here to declare to you, my past is over
In You, old things are made newSurrendered my life to ChristI’m moving-
I’m not going back, I’m moving aheadI’m here to declare to you, my past is overIn You, old things are made newSurrendered my life to ChristI’m moving.. moving
FORWARD!!!(4x)You maka all things newYou make all things newI will follow YouFOWARD!!!(repeats)

'Nuff said! =)

My Thanksgiving without the Gobble Gobble..No Turkey!

2009-12-01T13:23:00.000-08:00

My Thanksgiving holiday was a different sort of holiday than normal. My brother had to be on call from 5 pm to 5 am on Thanksgiving day, so we headed to Nashville to make sure he wasn't left out of the celebrating. We spent most of the morning traveling. On the trip over I indulged on Sarah Palin's new book "Going Rogue." I fascinated by this amazing woman who had a very ordinary life yet took what God gave her and created a very successful political career. She didn't let anything or anyone get in her way. She used her common sense to get things done and did a lot to help the people around her. So inspiring. I was totally motivated to shake things up a little in my own life. I even stuck with it during the political sections that I know very little about.. all things Sarah.. that's what I"m all about. We arrived in Nashville around noon and went to the restaurant we had planned on.. only to find there was a 2 HOUR WAIT!! We were all shocked over the gobs of people who were eating out on Thanksgiving. Kinda sad actually. Anyway.. we settled on Cracker Barrell.. even though that too, was an hour long wait. It was a fun memory.. something different. I had a homestyly sampler with ham, meatloaf, chicken and dumplings and three kinds of veggies.. including turnip greens of course. =) After the traditional stuffing of our bellies.. we headed over to the Opryland hotel where we had reservations for that night. ONce we checked in and figured out the labrynth of halls and dead ends.. we settled into our room briefly then trecked to find a parking spot on the opposite side of the hotel. We spent the evening walking around the beautifully decorated hotel. It's a wonder at Christmas.. One of the prettier parts was the life-sized manger scene outside. The figures looked like they were carved out of marble. It was good to see the birth of Christ honored despite the society around us continually getting further and further away from christianity. Jonathan got a call to go into work and dad went along with him, so mom and I settled into the room and watched a tear jerker of a movie. The next morning we set on our 7 hour journey to Chicago. Most of the trip was through the heartland of Kentucky and Indiana. I always love to people watch in those tiny little towns on the route.. It is truely a cultural experience to experience all the mulletts and poorly put together outfits. I even encountered a camo-clad gentleman staggering down the sidewalk drunk. I didn't know whether to help him or run away. ( it was around 1:00 pm- sad) After reading more about Sarah P. and a laptop movie or two later.. we arrived at Grandpa's. He just broke all of our hearts this trip. He keeps getting smaller and smaller and his quality of life is so poor. He even got confused several times, forgetting that we were visiting. He woke up one night thinging we were burglers. He really needs to be in a home, but his stubborn nature keeps him in the state he's in. I just hope he doesn't hurt himself.

Friday we celebrated Christmas early after a heart-attack causing brunch. My uncle Mark and dad did a lot of the prepping in the kitchen. It was cute! The two men of the family making breakfast for all. After our bellies were bloated from Mark's special "hash cookies", sausage and eggs made in ziploc bags (that's right- a little creepy) we sat around Grandpa's tiny living room and shared what we are thankful for then bridged the gap between Thanksgiving and Christmas by sharing our favorite Christmas memory. This was a wonderful new tradition started by none other than my mother. Grandpa.. bless his heart.. just didn't get the gist of it and started sharing a word from the Lord. We were, of course, blessed by it, but when we asked him for his favorite memory.. he just went right back into preacher mode. While it was typical Grandpa, it was also sad that he didn't understand what we were asking him to do.

After laying around lazily, I just had to move.. mom and I went to the mall for a few Christmas gifts. It was good to get out. After church with grandpa and our traditional Pepe's for lunch, we packed our too small for 4 adult Toyota camry and headed back to Memphis. The normally 7.5 hour trip to Nashville turned into about 12 because people in Kentucky and Indiana seem not to know how to drive on slick roads. We got stopped by several wrecks. I tried to finish Sarah's book, but was cut short by and early darkness. I totally forgot my book light. So I settled for watching "The Holiday" and then one of my favorites: "Madea Goes to Jail" I just can't get enough Madea. A great trip. We got home around 2:30 am and I was more than happy to slide into my own larger and cleaner bed. Thank goodness for cleanliness. (Grandpa's house just isn't the standard of clean we are used to). I am thankful for my family with our many differences.. we are still close to them and always enjoy getting together. I am truely blessed.

Baahaahahahahahaha!!

2009-11-23T14:33:00.001-08:00

This cheered up my dreary Monday.. I hope it does yours too!! Happy Thanksgiving!!

Little Happys (is that how you spell it?)

2009-11-12T13:32:00.000-08:00

Interesting observation for the day.. for some reason, today, as well as about this time last week.. I have been very easily amused.. almost giddy. There are no blatent reasons for me to be in such a happy mood. Nothing has really changed.. I'm still waiting and praying through some of the same things, but I just have to say it's gotta be the joy of the Lord. I think a lack of sleep would help too.. but the better theory is the Joy of the Lord. It's what I pray for and I hope it exudes from me. I love a good serious convo.. but I can also be very very silly. Although this week has been a little slow and uneventful.. I"ve had some happy moments.. Monday .. yeah.. can't even remember.. Tuesday was my Beth Moore bible study.. always a happy time.. Wednesday I had lunch at one of my fav. Greek restaurants with my dear friend Raegan who I hadn't seen in a while. That night was my very first rehearsal for show choir. We are doing a very large, Broadway style Christmas musical this year and I am a part of the singin' and dancin' group. The singin' I can handle, but the dancin' is a whole different story! I didn't have too much of a hard time with the half of the song we learned last night. However, the steps she was teaching us toward the end made my head spin! If God can part the red sea, he can help me get down some footwork! ha! Today has been an extremely slow day and so everything has entertained and amused me. My friend Jessie sent me this AMAZING U Tube video. It's a commercial for a flea market and it's this big black dude rappin'.. but it's more of an 80's white boy rap and it was the funniest thing I've ever seen!! I'm sure he totally made it up himself. I was laughing so hard that I had tears streaming down my face and my abs were hurting. Later on I would picture my friends that I e-mailed it to watching it and I started a fit of laughing all over. Then Diane and I would sing the lyrics and would laugh all over! I love it when I receive the gift of an amazingly awesome U Tube! I posted it to FACEBOOk and wished all my friends a better day. This will surely make everyone's day better! I had lunch with my friend Amy and her 3 week old baby girl Adelyn looking on (literally she was sleeping on the table). Tomorrow is another normal work day , an RFKC fundraiser with Gospel Singin' to boot and then I'll head off on part 1 of my two part trip to Knoxville to visit my new niece Lizzie Sagraves and her mom Kerri. I can't wait!! So for now.. my day is happy because of the sheer joy of the Lord, lunchtime with dear sweet friends and a cheesy rap commercial.. Life is good!!

The old is gone...

2009-11-11T09:56:00.000-08:00

A wonderful friend of mine sent this devo to me and this pretty much sums up the prayer of my heart these days. I want exactly this. It's not about God's blessings.. just him. Putting aside our fleshly desires and allowing him to do a new thing in us. I keep hearing him whisper that to me.. "behold, I do a new thing…" Wow! If only I could get to this point! Be challenged today friends.

When we are born again, the Holy Spirit begins to work His new creation in us, and there will come a time when there is not a bit of the old order left, the old solemnity goes, the old attitude to things goes, and "all things are of God." How are we going to get the life that has no lust, no self-interest, no sensitiveness to pokes, the love that is not provoked, that thinketh no evil, that is always kind? The only way is by allowing not a bit of the old life to be left; but only simple perfect trust in God, such trust that we no longer want God's blessings, but only want Himself. Have we come to the place where God can withdraw His blessings and it does not affect our trust in Him? When once we see God at work, we will never bother our heads about things that happen, because we are actually trusting in our Father in Heaven Whom the world cannot see.

"Puppy Size" - It's real!

2009-11-10T08:40:00.000-08:00

I have gotten this same adorable e-mail several times about a little girl who visits an animal shelter time and time again to find just the right puppy. Over and over she visits, but has no luck in choosing the one for her. She makes the comment several times that she is looking for the "puppy size" Her mother and the shelter workers believe that she is taking about the actual size of the puppy. One day she finally picks up her last puppy and says:

"'Mom, that's it! I found the right puppy! He's the one!
I know it!' She screamed with joy. 'It's the puppy size!' 'But it's the same size as all the other puppies you
held over the last few weeks,' Mom said. 'No not size. The sighs. When I held him in my arms,
he sighed,' she said. 'Don't you remember? When I
asked you one day what love is, you told me love
depends on the sighs of your heart. The more you
love, the bigger the sigh!'"

I am a huge sap and this story always touches my heart. I decided that I would check out this "puppy size" theory on my own precious
dog Asher. I went home at lunch and was sitting on the chair doing my Esther bible study. Asher jumped right up and found the crook in my legs to snuggle. That prescious dog sighed like 5 or six times.. he loves so much! I knew it when I picked him.. when I went to get him I had the choice between him and his brother. Asher (then Fanta) was the first one I picked up. We immediately bonded. When I set him back in the pen to hold the other dog (who was sniffing something in the corner) prescious little Asher put his front paws up on the side of the pen and looked up at me. It was like he was saying "pick me! – I love you the most already" And I did. He picked me too! So now that I have maxed out my sap for the day.. I will go on to think of snuggling and hugs and have a wonderful day!

The Expert

2009-11-05T08:16:00.000-08:00

I was watching fox news last night and they had a body language expert on. When I flipped thorough she was analyzing Nancy Pelosi and her interview about the 3 republican wins in recent elections. She was saying it was all good, when actually, according to the body language expert, she was not. The expert was zoning in on every move, every tone and every way that she darted her eyes, moved her head and stiffened her neck. It was fascinating. Maybe I should become a body language expert.. my life may be a little easier. Knowing how to read people could be a huge blessing and save me a lot of time and heartache with people..however.. It may be the biggest curse ever!! I may read too much. Think about it.. what would the world be like if everyone was a body language expert?! Yikes!! I wonder if Obama would have gotten into office.. I wonder if we would be embracing Islam or admiring and worshipping so many celebrities. I wonder if we would get hurt as much or be as scarred. I guess the Lord didn't give us this natural ability for a very specific reason. Or.. If I could turn it off and on for certain people and certain occasions.. that would be great! Just let your imagine run now.. and have a great day!

My Chains are Gone

2009-11-04T14:57:00.001-08:00

I have the privilege to be a part of a very wonderful camp for abused and neglected kids called Royal Family Kids Camp. Next Friday, the 13th, we are holding a gospel sing as a fundraiser for this very special camp. This will be our first year to do this and I am organizing a team of singers made up of counselors and staff members to sing during donation time. Well.. the song we have chosen to sing is the song by Chris Tomlin, Amazing Grace/My chains are gone. While we sing, a slideshow of camp kids and camp moments will be playing in the background. What a perfect message for the whole purpose of this camp. At RFKC we teach them that God loves them no matter what and they are a part of God's family. NO matter what people say or how much they have been neglected. NO matter what they have done, God loves them. He extends them a grace that reaches far beyond their circumstances. Through this grace, this freedom, their chains are loosed and they are set free. As we prepare for camp, we pray these children will experience God's amazing grace, his amazing love. I pray that this song will help others to catch that vision that we have for these children. That God's grace reaches beyond their circumstances and saves them from a life of sadness and neglect.

Another cool story.. I've experienced this same release.. I have been praying and praying over something that I want very much for myself. I worry over it and try to fix it myself and it was starting to drive me crazy! I responded to an alter call on Sunday night. I knew that it would take something bigger than I to be released from these anxious thoughts. this trying to control my destiny. Like my favorite bible teacher Beth Moore said, We are not responsible for the how, we are responsible for the what. What is it that we are willing to obey God in.. once we obey and follow after him, he will take care of the how. A very dear friend of mine was at the alter praying with me for a release and I finally god it! She gave me the visual of putting this situation.. into a beautiful jewelry box and locking it up with a key and putting that box along with that key at the foot of the cross.. at that point… it's in God's hands. I've had a few comments today about how happy and giddy I've been.. well.. my chains are gone.. I feel a release from my worries.. It's the most amazing feeling. Praise you Lord! I can hardly wait to see what he has in store…

Fall Dreams

2009-11-03T09:56:00.000-08:00

I love fall. The colors.. the weather.. the fall activities. It's just all sweet to me. I love the way the air even smells. I took Asher out for a walk this morning and could smell fall.. ahhhh… I just love it. =) Maybe I'll get married in the fall someday. I am partial to the fall colors.. all the rich tones of red, gold, and yellow. Gorgeous!

Then someday when I have kids.. I'll take them to all the adorable kid activities like going to the pumpkin patch and dress them up adorable for Halloween.. we'll have their friends over and make goodies and drink cider.. am I living in a dream world? I know that all of this will come with its complications.. but I'm just ready for all of that. Kid/family complications and all! Bring it on Lord… but of course the man will have to come first. Ready for that too of course! I trust that the Lord knows exactly what he is doing and it's all been placed in his hands. It's the only place it should be.

In the meantime.. I seek God. I serve and I continue the work that I know that God has called me to. He is all knowing and all powerful and I trust that he will allow all these dreams come true.. in fact.. I know. Because he promised never to leave or forsake me. I put my cares.. my dreams and my desires in his hands alone and in the meantime.. I seek his face.

These Boots were made for Walkin'

2009-10-13T10:12:00.000-07:00

Just a few random tidbits for the day.. I"m wearing my fab leather cowboyish boots today for the second time this season and they always make me feel extra sassy and confident.. I love them!!! It's so fun to spice up an outfit with a cute pair of boots. =) I had some younger friends come and visit me here in the office and they are just so prescious. I love that!! It feels so good to have someone think of coming to visit you. IT totally brightened my day! I am at work from 830 to 5 monday thru friday and am open to visitors anytime! I love the random pop-in's. I looove suprises period. Last Friday we all found out about the amazing suprise that our family pastor's wife did for him. He had no clue.. but she had planned this whole trip to NYC. He had always wanted to go so she worked an extra job and made all these amazingly detailed plans to get him there without him knowing until the day of and then planned this whole itenerary for them. I love it. As their friend was telling us the story in staff prayer.. I had tears in my eyes... it's totally what I would do for someone I love! I do it some with my parents.. but man.. I think there will be something special about doing it for my husband someday... I totally will! =)

In the meantime.. me and my boots will be just fine livin' the single life. God is faithful!

Wait and See....

2009-10-12T13:59:00.000-07:00

I just may have to float around on a cloud for a while because I am on a spiritual high like no other. =) The past two weekends have been incredible! Last weekend I worked discipleship walk with Raleigh Assembly. It was such a wonderful experience. I felt as If I was exactly who God made me to be and I was just so full of joy and the light of God. I had so many people tell me that I glow with the joy of the Lord. I shared a talk with the ladies and it was straight from my heart. I felt as if God had stirred up a new gift in me. I absolutely loved the whole process.. writing it and praying about it.. when it came time for me to give the talk I had no fear whatsoever. It was incredible. It came out so effortlessly. God was right there with me. I was just thrilled with how he had enabled me to deliver it with such power and poise. I am so blessed to have been given the opportunity to share my heart. This is definitely the start of a new season for me. Things haven't necessarily changed dramatically as far as what is going on with me in the external.. but the internal has dramatically changed. God has given me a whole new outlook on life. He's given me a new joy that is abundant and deep. It doesn't depend on my external circumstances but what is on the inside.

This past weekend I went to hear Beth Moore at the Fed Ex forum. She always has such a fresh and challenging word! She talked about God and how he is.. not necessarily the physical description of him.. but his nature. It totally reminded me that God is all powerful and is in total control of my life. I shouldn't worry about anything but just seeking him. He has called me to seek his face with all of my heart. I don't need to focus on the external now.. it's the internal.. it's all about God. I don’t even desire what people have to offer right now.. I just want to be in God's presence and know him more. I can't wait to see what he has up his sleeve!

And speaking about what is up God's sleeve.. at work today the ladies and I were doing this old trick where you drop a necklace or anything hanging in front of you 5 times and it will tell you how many kids you will have and what their sex will be. The three ladies that have already had kids were accurate. Two of us single girls did it as well.. the necklace trick says that I'll have two girls then a boy. ha! I wrote it in my journal and it will be interesting to look back someday and see if it's true. Dianne, who taught us the trick, says that it has been surprisingly accurate among her friends and family. ha! We'll just have to wait and see. For now.. someone needs to come up with a trick that will tell me who I will marry and when!! Let me know if you know a way to tell that one! =)

God is Faithful

2009-10-05T14:27:00.000-07:00

I am blessed.. so so blessed. I just got back from a weekend that should have taken every ounce of energy out of me and I have energy and excitement. My discipleship walk weekend was INCREDIBLE!! I knew it would be too. Leading up to the weekend.. I had felt in my prayers that this would be a new season for me.. a season of joy and of peace and a season of God stirring things up and changing things for me.

The weekend brought out a few new gifts in me and stirred up my passion for ministry. I met and served with some very special women. God poured a special word into my heart that I was able to share with everyone. It was so anointed and went so so well. God showed me that I can speak and I can engage and it will minister. I was also affirmed over and over again over the weekend in many different areas. I felt worthy of the calling that God has placed on my life. I have not felt that in a very long time. The Lord did stir up something new and something that will last through the ups and downs of life. I can hardly wait to see what happens next. I know this all came about because of prayer. I had also made a committment to spending a specific amount of time with the Lord each night leading up to the walk. I could feel increased power from that and am so thankful that I made the sacrifice of my time. Praise God for his faithfulness!!

Another thing.. a relationship in my life that I have been praying to be reconciled has suddenly popped up out of the blue. All happened because of the Lord and because of his power.. not by my own hand. I have purposely taken myself out of that situation. There were several incidents over the weekend that helped me to realize that my heart is not desiring the wrong things. There willl be more about that later.. for now.. I will take that one day at a time and not anticipate anything happening at all. I'm done talking about it!

God is so faithful. I stood on the platform at Raleigh last night and shared with the congregation that about two years ago I stood on that same platform telling of what God did in my life as a disciple on the walk and how I was about to step into a period of lonliness and wandering in the wilderness. But now, I am standing on the same platform telling them that God has brought me out of the wilderness and is starting a new thing in m y life. Praise God!!! MOre to come... I believe with all of my heart that he's lining things up now for me and my period of waiting will be over shortly.

Weekend shinannigans

2009-09-29T12:22:00.000-07:00

It was definately a busy weekend! I was not so excited about the events of Friday night~ my 10 year class reunion. The reason I was less than thrilled about this event was because of the location. (that, and I didn't feel all too connected to my classmates) Despite my hesitations, I went anyway.. what's the hurt. A lot of times I'll feel this way on the front end, then later I will be glad I went.

We all met up at the FACS homecoming football game (which was fine), mingled, then headed over to a very classy ;) grille and bar called "The Fox and the Hound" When you hear that the locale of your class reuniont is at this location two things come to mind: 1. Everyone else does their reunion here- Be creative! 2. It's a bar.. there will be a lot of drinking and not so much mingling. Poo! Well.. I got there and sat with some friends and ordered some fries and was fine. I was one of two not drinking.. and that was well and good. It was great to see everyone. I enjoyed catching up and seeing what everyone is doing with themselves. It was somewhat sad to see the condidion of my classmates.. some were even still mean to the people they were mean to in High school. It was definately an enlightening experience.

Because I am a very social person and I can make the best of everything.. I ended up staying until about 12:30. I enjoyed seeing some old friends.. that's really all there was to it. It also made me thankful for the life that I live and that it's not all about drinking and being mean to the same people I was mean to in High School. (I would definately get the award for mingling with the most people)

Saturday I had to wake up earlier than I would have liked to and was thankful that my hair didn't smell like a cigarette butt from the night before. I had a productive day at Chessie's (my boutique job outside of the First Assembly Bubble) Saturday night was a night of hopping around the city of memphis. I left east Memphis for Cordova to change and freshen up. After that I headed to Germantown to say farewell to lovely Helen Morgan and her husband Brent. They are moving back to England. They will be missed. It was a wonderful gathering with all too much food (as always) and an inspiring word from Dr. Richard Gilbertson. He's a deacon at our church who is one of the top cancer researchers for St. Jude and one of the best in the world. He has meetings with the presidents and gives lectures at Harvard. YOu would never know it though.. he's as down to earth as they get.. with his pencil like body clad in Hollister and always offering a friendly hello and a hug. His wife is just as wonderful. Always the perfect hostess!

After the party I drove back to Cordova to meet my lovely friend Jennifer for a late night Tyler Perry movie. We headed 20 min. more to Collierville to watch the much anticipateed new Madea Movie "I can do bad all by myself" It was amazing!!!!

Funny story... Before the movie even started, Jennifer and I were talking happily about the events of our day and I was sharing about the sermon that I had just heard at the Life Church (a stop that I made after work- I forgot to mention.. amazing worship.. brought me to tears amazing speaker- Christine Caine from Hillsong- totally challenged me to step up my game) anyway.. I get excited when i talk about the Lord and definately may have been talking a little louder at that point- can't help it- when an african american brother (granted we were the only two white girls in the theater) turned around from two rows and several chairs over and in front of us and told us we were talking too loud. Mind you, we weren't interrupting anything. It was so rediculous that he was agitated with us that Jennifer was just smiling at him thinking he was joking. I must have stared very blankly at him because he had to repeat it a couple of times. Well.. normally I am very apoligetic, but not this time.. I just said "Ok." and slightly lowered my voice "anyway" Then I struggled with the rest of my story because his attitude and the way he had said it were very rude. I had to even say to Jennifer "let me recover after that for a minute." We both ended up moving far far away from this man because every time we laughed we were totally conciencious that we were being too loud for him. It totally killed our joy for about 10 minutes but we quickly got over it. Our crabby black man story has definately been a hit the past few days. =)

Sunday was another busy day.. homework.. a great nap..and a underwhelming choir concert. I am sooo looking forward to getting away for the weekend at Discipleship Walk. I cannot wait to see what God does in the lives of these women!

Thursday

2009-09-25T08:24:00.000-07:00

Inspired by my loverly friend Jennifer…

Today (9/24) I

Woke up not wanting to get out of bed (as usual)

Took my dog for a walk.. which was a challenge to do quickly because he needed to poo (not usual for mornings)- he takes forever!!

Rushed to work and immediately had visions of strong coffee

Passed the coffee making test for the second day in a row.. (my co-workers- Dianne Geabhart- Like it STRONG)

Watered my coffee down with cream and sugar

Settled in for a very slow day at work

called hospitals to check up on our church members

Didn't talk to Alette in the morning for the first time this week

Went to lunch and got a faaaabulous new nail polish by OPI for my BFF~ "Ate Berries in the Canaries" ~ then wished I could afford some for myself~

Bought salon quality shampoo and straightning gel for a ridiculously wonderful price

Got my sugar fix from a giant cup of McAlister's sweet tea thanks to my co-worker Diane O'Connor's craving~ she paid~

Ran errands for co-workers.. I am thankful to be the young one with the most energy.
Saw one of my favorite people~ Judi Bramlett~ in the store.. talked hugged.. talked to Kerri on the phone about her new baby.. heard the baby cry. =)

Back to work.. bored…

Wished that Jennifer didn't fan the OPI obsession! It's gonna be tough to resist buying a color per week!

Happy I get facebook updates on my phone. I am officially in the know! ~ going to support my friend Judi and her girl's HS volleyball team! Go Crusaders!

Enjoyed the Crusader volleyball game~ something different was good.

Went home and immediately put on my sweats and said "ahhhh" so great not to have anything to do tonight!!

Watched a new show on ABC "Flashforward" Awesome! Got mom hooked too!

Went through my piles of papers and mail~ I looove organizing.

Caught up on America's next top model.. on of my fav. shows!!

Went through my Discipleship Walk talk with mom.. made a few changes… Praise God it will be good!

Prayed over my talk and my life

Stayed up waaaaaaay too late…

This morning.. I overslept.. of course!! Frustrating! Managed to pull it together somehow..

Busy busy

2009-09-24T08:58:00.000-07:00

Hello friends! I seriously have had very little time to sit down and write.. I've been extremeley busy with the this and thats of life. My first and foremost thing taking up time is my chemistry class. I've decided that chemistry is the devil. It was inspired by the evil forces of hell. I have also decided that all the people who actually understand are sitting in a corner somewhere and laughing at the rest of us average intelligence people. Not cool at all chemistry nerds!! If you are one.. don't take this personally.. I just am in a permanent bad mood due to the lack of sleep I get over this class.

Another very exciting activity in my life lately is the face that I am on the leadership team for a very amazing ministry retreat called Discipleship Walk with the wonderful church: Raleigh Assembly. I am giving a talk and leading a small group. I am very excited about sharing my heart with and ministering to these women. We had our last meeting this past Monday and the holy spirit was very much present.. God's power was very strong as we prayed for one another. Ooo I can't wait to see what he does in the lives of my fellow team members and more importantly the women going on the walk. I have a few women I am friends with that are going and it always makes it more exciting when someone you know is going. =) I feel so privelaged to have this honor to serve.

I also just got done throwing a baby shower for my friend Amy who is expecting her second child, a girl. It was great having her sister in law and another friend Tammy share the hosting load. Church is always busy.. with choir. We are doing a big produciton for Christmas this year/ broadway style! I tried out for one of the drama parts... that could add to my busy schedule.. we'll see. I only want God's plan.

Just for fun!

2009-09-16T14:52:00.001-07:00

General Cosgrove was interviewed on the radio recently. You'll love his reply to the lady who interviewed him concerning guns and children.
Regardless of how you feel about gun laws you gotta love this! This is one of the best comeback lines of all time. It is a portion of an ABC interview between a female broadcaster and General Cosgrove who was about to sponsor a Boy Scout Troop visiting his military headquarters.

FEMALE INTERVIEWER:
So, General Cosgrove, what things are you going to teach these young boys when they visit your base?

GENERAL COSGROVE:
We're going to teach them climbing, canoeing, archery and shooting.

FEMALE INTERVIEWER:
Shooting! That's a bit irresponsible, isn't it?

GENERAL COSGROVE:
I don't see why, they'll be properly supervised on the rifle range.

FEMALE INTERVIEWER:
Don't you admit that this is a terribly dangerous activity to be teaching children?

GENERAL COSGROVE:
I don't see how. We will be teaching them proper rifle discipline before they even touch a firearm.

FEMALE INTERVIEWER:
But you're equipping them to become violent killers.

GENERAL COSGROVE:
Well, Ma'am, you're equipped to be a prostitute, but you're not one, are you?

The radio went silent and the interview ended.

Blessings

2009-09-09T14:48:00.000-07:00

I flew in from Ft. Myer's, Fla. Tuesday night at 10:30 pm. I had a great trip to visit my very best friend Candice and her family in the very steamy sunshine state. I had never been to south fla. in the heat of early September. It was a whole new kind of heat. It felt as if I was standing in front of the oven, except there was no tasty treat waiting for me inside.

I arrived to a very beautiful, very excited Candice. We had a mighty hug and picked right back up where we left off. Candice, being the extremely busy mother of 2 beautiful girls ages 4 and 1 and a newly appointed interim pastor's wife made sure to keep me busy and happy. I knew she was stressed and overworked, but her energy stayed at the level of what it needed to be to enteratin... she made sure my trip was well rounded with experiences such as visiting hippie art galleries near the beach on Pine Island, to singing together in church to a beach day on Monday and shopping and island exploring on Sanibel Island on Tuesday. It was the perfect mix of spending time with Isabella, Gabriela and Mike, having alone time with Candice and meeting the wonderful members of their wonderful church. I am amazed at how my friend made sure to take care of me 100% even though I knew some of it was a physical and financial sacrifice. Her heart and servanthood inspires me. She gives others her all.. sometimes at the expense of her own comforts. This is a woman I want to strive to be more like. I know that God will richly bless this woman I count a privelage to call a best friend.

I just wish I could be around my friend more.. she's one of those who when we are together, we just click. We are totally ourselves and the understanding we have of each other is a rare thing. I just love her and her family to death! God is so good in blessing me with this wonderful woman.

Another aspect I really thought was great about my trip was suprisingly my layover in Atl. I had about 2.5-3 hours. Over the holiday I was constantly surrounded with people and noise so the layover was the perfect wind down. It seemed that God was prompting me every step of the way in what I needed to keep myself positively entertained. When I arrived at the gate I walked up and down the terminal a couple of times to stretch my legs, grow a little more of an appetite, and check out the eating options. I wanted to sit down and enjoy a nice meal. I finally decided on Chili's. I requested a booth and settled in with Beth Moore on my I Pod for a great meal of Chili's amazing chips and salsa and a cobb salad. =) It was a great relaxing time. After my meal, I went over to a bookstore and got a book that had caught my eye on the way down to Fla. "90 Minutes in Heaven" ONce I opened the pages and began to read.. I was hooked!! I was captivated by this story of a Baptist Minister who was killed in a tragic car accident, spent 90 minutes in heaven, then was brought back to the life by the prayers of another preacher praying on the scene of the accident. I teared up several times over stories of the power of prayer and fighting through the amazing battle for life and later for recovery.. both emotionally and physically. It was the perfect purchase. Our plane was delayed and it didn't bother me a bit.. i had this amazing book. I finished most of it. God knew exactly what to prompt me in being prepared for this trip. I wasn't bored for one minute and I was totally blessed by my Beth Moore session on IPod and this amazing story of Pastor Piper. God is good.. even in the little things.

Pink hair and maternity swimwear

2009-09-04T14:10:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I have totally been inspired by my friends Jennifer and Amys to delete this horribly long depressing commentary about the negatives of our country and how it's gone away from God and just be me.

I went to the beauty salon last night and did something a little uncharacteristic.. I got pink highlights!! Yes.. pink! They are a little more than I would like, but all the same. I was inspired last time I sat in my hairdresser's chair and she said that she had some pink.. I was like hummm... I've always wanted to do some of that.. lets do it!! So after about 2.5 hours in her chair, I now have shorter, blonder and pinker hair. Just in time for my trip to Cape Coral, Fla. to visit my very wonderful friend from college, Candice. =) I absolutely can't wait!! I am leaving my house at 4:25 am for the airport. yaaaay!! I know that I won't have any problem getting up at this hour because I am so excited about this trip. I can't even remember the last time I was at the beach!!

Jennifer, send me a reminder to call you with beach sounds and pics. I may be so overwhelemed at the newness of it all.. I may forget. My beach body isn't quite where I would like it to be, but last night I found Plan B bathing suit at Target. It's actually a maternity top, but it's a small and it's SUPER cute. So whether it's green two piece.. slightly cuter suit, or black maternity suit.. I'll be ok because I'll be with one of my favorite people in the whole world and at one of my fav. locales!! The Beach!! Be watching for pics. What a perfect way to end the summer. =)

Early Riser

2009-08-27T07:33:00.000-07:00

I got up extra early this morning!!! Woo hoo!! That is a MAJOR ordeal for me! I got to spend some time reading my bible and praying.. I took a nice long shower and washed my nappy hair.. and had plenty of time to get ready.. paint my toenails.. pluck my eyebrows. ... pick clothes off the floor and make my bed.. I even did a touch of cleaning. My dog was happy too.. he got to spend more time outside playing with my parents' cat. They love each other. They are so playful! It's so fun watching them interact. =) I just love my puppy dog. He is so spoiled. Anyway.. now I feel awake and ready to start the day with God's word on my mind and a prayer on my lips.. it's going to be a good day. I just pray that I can continue this habit. I guess it means going to bed a little earlier.. that is a whole other feat! Wish me luck!

Writing

2009-08-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

I have been so zoned in.. I am giving a talk for an upcoming church retreat. I am set to talk about spiritual growth and the discipline it takes to get there. It's funny how God works.. this is actually something that I'm dealing with now. I'm working on it. All day yesterday all I could think about was that talk!! I had bits an pieces written out and different stories and scriptures that I wanted to share, but it had yet to all come together.. well.. with the help of one of my fav. songs.."You Were There" beautifully sung by avalon, It all came together! I still have some sections that are in need of being written, but i'm using that song to tie it all together and give it a punch! I am sooo excited to see what God will do through this. I am soo passionate about delivering this speech with the power of the holy spirit to guide me. I pray that my words will cut deep into the hearts of these ladies we will be ministering to over the course of the weekend. God, continue to give me the words and the wisdom to share with these precious ladies. May you begin to prepare their hearts even now for what they will experience over the weekend. You are God and you are there for everything that happens in our lives. I trust in you and depend on you for life. I know that you are with me and that you are guiding my focus. I love you Lord. Thank you for this opportunity.

Taking A Stand

2009-08-18T09:30:00.000-07:00

The following is a poem written by Judge Roy Moore from Alabama. Judge Moore was sued by the ACLU for displaying the Ten Commandments in his courtroom foyer. He has been stripped of his judgeship and now they are trying to strip his right to practice law in Alabama ! The judge's poem sums it up quite well.

America the beautiful,or so you used to be.Land of the Pilgrims' pride;I'm glad they'll never see.

Babies piled in dumpsters,Abortion on demand,Oh, sweet land of liberty;your house is on the sand.

Our children wander aimlesslypoisoned by cocainechoosing to indulge their lusts,when God has said abstainFrom sea to shining sea,our Nation turns away

From the teaching of God's loveand a need to always prayWe've kept God in our temples,how callous we have grown.When earth is but His footstool,and Heaven is His throne.

We've voted in a governmentthat's rotting at the core,Appointing Godless Judgeswho throw reason out the door,

Too soft to place a killerin a well deserved tomb,But brave enough to kill a babybefore he leaves the womb.

You think that God's not angry,that our land's a moral slum ?How much longer will He waitbefore His judgment comes ?

How are we to face our God,from Whom we cannot hide ?What then is left for us to do,but stem this evil tide ?

If we who are His children,will humbly turn and pray;Seek His holy faceand mend our evil way:

Then God will hear from Heaven;and forgive us of our sins,He'll heal our sickly landand those who live within....

But, America the Beautiful,If you don't - then you will see,A sad but Holy Godwithdraw His hand from Thee.~

~Judge Roy Moore~~

The Southerner Test

2009-08-17T12:26:00.000-07:00

Of course, everybody knows that the only things that make you a true Southern woman is to own a deviled egg plate and a set of iced tea spoons! If you don't have these, it doesn't matter if you were born in Atlanta, Savannah, New Orleans or Corpus Christi, you ain't Southern!

Southern women know their summer weather report: HumidityHumidityHumiditySouthern women know their vacation spots: The beachThe rivuhThe crickSouthern women know everybody's first name:Honey (or “hun” for short)Darlin'ShugahSouthern women know the movies that speak to their hearts:Fried Green TomatoesDriving Miss DaisySteel MagnoliasGone With The WindSouthern women know their religions: BaptistMethodistFootballSouthern women know their cities dripping with Southern charm:Chawl'stn S'vanahFoat Wuth (my favorite!)N'awlinsAddlanna (aka “Hotlanna”)Southern women know their elegant gentlemen: Men in uniformMen in tuxedosRhett ButlerSouthern girls know their prime real estate:The MallThe Country ClubThe Beauty SalonSouthern girls know the 3 deadly sins:Having bad hair and nailsHaving bad mannersCooking bad foodMore Suthen-ism's: Only a Southerner knows the difference between a hissie fit and a conniption fit, and that you don't "HAVE" them, you "PITCH" them._____Only a Southerner knows how many fish, collard greens, turnip greens, peas, beans, etc., make up "a mess." _____Only a Southerner can show or point out to you the general direction of "yonder." _____Only a Southerner knows exactly how long "directly" is, as in: "Going to town, be back directly."_____Even Southern babies know that "Gimme some sugar" is not a request for the white, granular sweet substance that sits in a pretty little bowl in the middle of the table. _____All Southerners know exactly when "by and by" is. They might not use the term, but they know the concept well._____Only a Southerner knows instinctively that the best gesture of solace for a neighbor who's got trouble is a plate of hot fried chicken and a big bowl of cold potato salad. If the neighbor's trouble is a real crisis, they also know to add a large banana puddin! _____Only Southerners grow up knowing the difference between "right near" and "a right far piece." They also know that "just down the road" can be 1 mile or 20_____Only a Southerner, both knows and understands, the difference between a redneck, a good ol' boy, and po' white trash. _____No true Southerner would ever assume that the car with the flashing turn signal is actually going to make a turn._____A Southerner knows that "fixin" can be used as a noun, a verb, or an adverb._____Only Southerners make friends while standing in lines, ... and when we're "in line,"... we talk to everybody! _____Put 100 Southerners in a room and half of them will discover they're related, even if only by marriage._____In the South, y'all is singular, all y'all is plural._____Southerners know grits come from corn and how to eat them._____Every Southerner knows tomatoes with eggs, bacon, grits, and coffee are perfectly wonderful; that red eye gravy is also a breakfast food; and that fried green tomatoes are not a breakfast food. _____When you hear someone say, "Well, I caught myself lookin'," you know you are in the presence of a genuine Southerner!_____Only true Southerners say "sweet tea" and "sweet milk." Sweet tea indicates the need for sugar and lots of it -- we do not like our tea unsweetened. "Sweet milk" means you don't want buttermilk. _____And a true Southerner knows you don't scream obscenities at little old ladies who drive 30 MPH on the freeway. You just say,"Bless her heart" ... and go your own way._____To those of you who are still a little embarrassed by your Southerness: Take two tent revivals and a dose of sausage gravy and call me in the morning. Bless your heart!_____And to those of you who are still having a hard time understanding all this Southern stuff, ... bless your hearts, I hear they are fixin' to have classes on Southernness as a second language! _____And for those that are not from the South but have lived here for a long time, all y'all need a sign to hang on y'alls front porch that reads "I ain't from the South, but I got here as fast as I could." Southern girls know men may come and go, but friends are fahevah !Now...... Shugah, send this to someone who was raised in the South or wish they had been! If you're a Northern transplant,bless your little heart, fake it. We know you got here as fast as you could

Welcome little Lizzie!

2009-08-11T10:02:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited!! One of my very best friends, Ms. Kerri Murphy Sagraves, just had a new baby girl. Welcome to the World little Ms. Elizabeth Ann Sagraves!!! Kerri and Brad are already calling her Lizzie! So sweet. She has red hair, just like her momma. There were a few complications so they had to do a c-section, but Lizzie and mom and doing great! Kerri and Brad now have a prescious 5lb. 10oz. baby girl. I can't wait to go and visit my new little niece in Knoxville! I would go now if I could.

David's Story

2009-08-10T13:17:00.000-07:00

I had such a refreshing weekend... (as my spirit and soul say ahhhhhh!!!!) Thurs. Friday and Saturday were a time of worship and word with Jackie Ashpole and her wonderful ministry team. I can't tell you how much these few short days changed my life and my outlook. Thursday night I had the privelage of a wonderful prayer warrior pray with me. She said that God wanted to grant all the desires of my heart and there will come a time when they all come together at once. Well praise God!! She also told me that God has something special for me. Then the next morning I enjoyed a powerful sermon about David. Jackie talked of how David was in God's will and under his favor when he defeated Goliath, but then he ended up right back where he started , at the gates of Goliath's hometown. He ended up there because of fear. He was running from Saul. Then the ugly beast called fear chased him further into a cave where he hid out from his enemies. David eventually came out of the cave to live in a land of peace alongside his family. This is where he was comfortable, it was the norm. He stayed there and was established there for many years. Eventually it was time for David to leave that comfort zone for Judah, the land of Praise. In Judah, David was again in God's will. He was a great ruler who honored God and is remembered by all to this day. David's story is so true of so many people even today. We are walking along.. happy in God's will having defeated that sin, or that fear. Then something happens where we voluntarily pick that fear back up and run straight back to that something that we had already defeated. We hide away in our cave of fear and allow it to keep us from God's will. Eventually we get the nerve to get out of that cave, but ease the transition by going into a land that is comfortable and familiar. This is where we are built back up and refreshed to do what God has called us to do. Eventually we must leave what is comfortable and take a step of faith, knowing that God's will must be carried out and know that he has been with us every step of the way. What is it that holds you back? I know I am very guilty of this myself. I'm ready for that step of faith into the land of praise. I feel it's right around the corner.

Discipline

2009-08-07T13:29:00.000-07:00

I have been spending some time in some very special services over the past two days and have been challenged to dial up the notch in living for God. It started several weeks ago when I attended a service at Raleigh Assembly and the pastor talked about being a gatekeeper and watching how much you let in that is negative or not of God. He said the more you let in, the more it dims your light and gets in the way of hearing from and experiencing God in a fuller way. I was totally conviceted of the movies that I watch and even some of the shows and some music I listen to. I also want to watch more what I say and what I stick around when other people are talking about others. I can be quite guilty of negatie talk myself!

All of this has solidified more and more in these couple of services. I must discipline myself to spend a specific amount of time each day with the Lord.. just me and him. I need to change the way I spend time with him and the way I do things. I want to live a life poured out and only for God. I definately struggle with discipline. God help me to change these ways about me. Give me a vision and a plan as to how to carry this out. I love you. I know you have something special for me and the future is bright. I put myself in your hands.

Prayer= Action

2009-08-06T08:23:00.000-07:00

Ok. So I had the girls over for bible study last night and we had a great great session with Beth Moore. We talked about faith. WOW!! My session notes were covered with extra notes that jumped out at me. I don't have my book in front of me to relay everything, but I will try and remember a few things that she said.
Faith is fighting the devil. We don't have to listen and agree with what he throws at us. Who are you agreeing with? If you are agreeing with the devil, you are agreeing with lies. He wants nothing more than to destroy you, but it's all through his words. He actually has very little power to actually do anything, he's all talk.
Prayer springs God into action, when we pray the throne of God creaks as he moves into action. Isn't that powerful!! Some things only happen because of prayer. When you get down on your knees and pray, you make the four points of an alter with your two knees and your two feet. That's all you need! I wish I could remember everything she said.. I may have to go over my book again and update tomorrow. =) These things I have shared today obviously especially stood out to me. OH!! She also talked about a bible study leader who challenged her group to write their petitions out on a notecard. She then instructed them to ask for this need to be met just once and then every time after that, thank God for meeting that need. Wow!! What faith! I want faith like that. What an inspiring woman. Never go to God without giving him thanks for the things he has already done. It will stir up your faith and serve as a reminder of his faithfulness. Praise God.
I can't wait to see what God does next. I am committed to being a throne creaker!!
Oh.. and one more thing I am excited about... the women's pastor here at First Assembly was asking for women to write letters and cards of encouragement to the women of the inner city neighborhood that our church ministers to each Saturday. I felt particularly prodded to do this. I then realized it would be a great idea to give the names and addresses to the girls in my bible study. They were enthusiastic about it and each took a name or two to encourage. We prayed over them. I am so excited.. this is exactly the kind of thing I wanted to get going in my bible study.. outreach. I would like to do even more! Praise God for giving me that idea!

Reality Bites- suck it up and deal with it like an adult!

2009-08-06T08:20:00.000-07:00

OK. I just read an article about John and Kate, the couple from the TLC reality series "John and Kate Plus 8" In the article John Gosselin was saying how he tried to fix the marriage by going to counseling and working out some of the couple's problems. Kate would always refuse and place all the blame on him. You have put us into this mess, it's your behavior that has landed us where we are.. stuff like that. Well.. If you have ever watched the show, Kate is the one who put her husband down and made him feel less of a man. She would give him very minimal allowances for the week and treat him like he wasn't good enough. No wonder he went to other women and parties. She is refusing to see her side of things. She is placing all the blame on him!! Yes, it takes two to cause a marriage to crumble.. I believe that he definitely made some unwise choices, but you have to also take a look and examine yourself. Another thing that bothers me is that both John and Kate have expressed how much they want their kids protected and happy. The article also talked about how the kids have told him numerous times how they want their parents together and how hurt they are. Well.. if you sincerely want your kids to be healthy and happy, WORK ON YOUR MARRIAGE!! Those kids will never be the same after this. If you ask me, Kate is a coward! John has acted immaturely.. he's gotta keep fighting and continue to act as if he's still a husband and get his woman back. He needs to seek help from the church they supposedly went to! If I could just talk to them!! I know I don't have all the answers, but I've never been married, but I've seen people fight for their marriage and make it. If anything, they both need to grow up and get their head out of the money shaped clouds that they are in. I rest my case.

lazy weekend

2009-08-03T12:36:00.001-07:00

I spent a lot of time with friends over the weekend. Friday night was a lovely evening of catching up with Wendy and Parul over fresh authentic Mexican food at Las Tortugas. umm umm!! Wendy enlightened us with an exciting story of being set up with what sounds like Mr. Perfect.. 26, law student with a job waiting in Nashville.. seems to love the Lord.. shoot. Great last name.. Ha! Yeah, that's a picky one. Anyway.. we ate and then conspired over walking at saddle creek over how Wendy will look and get to know Nashville a little better. This guy has given her the promise of taking her out in October. She hasn't actually talked to him, but she's got a promise. So how heavily does she actually weigh that? Humm.. It's hard to know. In my experience, most guys don't keep the promise and follow through. But there are some real men out there . I have met these rarities and they sure are hard to get over! Anyway... after we parted ways with Parul, Wendy and I went to my house and watched "Changeling" with Angelina Jolie. Great movie! It's a true story about a mother living in LA in the 20's who has her only son and only family member abducted. The cops return a boy to her several months later only to the mothers' detriment, it's not really her son. She ends up being manipulated by the cops to take the boy home and by the end is wrongfully commited to a mental institution. After she is released, another child confesses that he is helping his uncle abduct and kill young boys on a nearby farm. The whole scenario exposes the corruption of the LAPD. The lady never found her son. It's a very sad/intriguing story.

Saturday I worked at Chessie's with a temporary fill-in named Tammy. Tammy was a really neat lady. She is a Mary Kay director who is doing very well and has earned 6 cars! 6! My friend Candice had already planted the seed, and I decided selling Mary Kay would be a great way to pay off my debt more quickly and then possibly use it as my income in school. So... we'll see..

When I got home from Chessie's I decided to fix myself a pot of spaghetti and enjoy some more friends. I had recently bought season 7 of "Friends" and enjoyed quality time with them for the rest of the night. So entertaining! =)

Spared

2009-07-31T08:39:00.000-07:00

It's a twister!! This is the one that touched down and damaged a store that i frequent... only 7 or so miles away!!

Praise God! I survived another round of crazy tornado weather here in Memphis!! They always hit right when i'm about to leave work too. But honestly, I'd rather be here at work in this giant building than in my small house or in my car!! Basically the tornadoes surrounded my neck of the woods, but didn't go straight through. There was one that did some major damage to a Khol's and several surrounding businesses about 7 mi. away from here and then there were some that hit another 10 mi. on the other side. Praise God! There was very little damage to this area.. if any. I barely saw any tree limbs down. It looked like a new river had decided to form in my front yard, but besides that, all is well. =) I enjoyed the stormy weather actually.. which is a huge improvement from what it used to be for me. I was DEATHLY AFRAID OF EVERYTHING!! Including Cats!!! ha!! Anyway...

I spent the evening in my parentless house with my sweet dog asher and a medical terminology book and later season 7 of "Friends" It's so cozy in my upstairs nook. I love it. When the weather cleared, I ventured out to the local Super Target in search of pretty things to spiff up my den. I got a beautiful runner a pillow and a new fake flower. =) I must say it's really shaping up in there. I just loooove making things pretty. I can't wait to have a whole house to have free rein. I hope my future hubby doesn't have much of an opinion in that area.. if he does.. hopefully we'll be able to make peaceful agreements. I'm planning a fun night with two of my favorite friends tonight. I'm not sure what yet, but whatever it is needs to be cheap.. I had the privelage of being the victim of a hit and run in the target parking lot a few weeks ago! I was running an errand for the shower that I was throwing for friend Kerri. I was in the store for like 7min. tops and someone decided to be an idiot and run into my parked car.. the paint marks left were red.. maybe some shopping carts rebelled against mankind.. who knows.. all I know is that I have to pay $200 that I was saving for other important things. Bummer!!! Where is the blessing in this? Right now the blessing i'm seeing is definately the fact that instead of paying a $1000 deductible, i'm paying $200 since it was a hit and run. I'll take it. In all things, it's important to see that blessing. If not, we would be pretty miserable people. Take care friends and have a fab weekend!!

On a lighter note..

2009-07-30T12:54:00.000-07:00

" It was only a little Pee.. why the 30 minute timeout?"

" You touch the duck... I keel you"

Hummm....

2009-07-30T08:45:00.000-07:00

Ok. I am almost embarrassed to share this, but I must be super ready to have a man because I keep having these dreams. Maybe it's because I have been obsessing over the Bachelorette that has a lot of affection and dating in it, but I don't know...

I have been having dreams (all with different guys- one was Brad Pitt!!) and in the dreams I am a couple with these guys and I am so infatuated with them and craving their affection. They usually give me some, but not as much as I'm needing. Any psychologists out there who can help me figure out my inner soul? It's like a magical switch that has been turned on recently that's causing me to think about all of this more. I’m content, but it's like something deep down that just won't shut up! If I'm going to continue to feel this way.. I need a man soon!! Alright God, I know you are working. I trust you!

my crazy head

2009-07-29T09:34:00.001-07:00

I have the theme song to VBS stuck in my head!! ahh!! "Blast off to cosmic city" The kids are singing it tonight and hopefully our hard work will pay off. They have so much fun singing and doing the extremely fun motions that we've been teaching them all week. There is nothing like working with these kids and watching them have a blast. So much fun. =) not to mention free meals each night. =)

I took my devotion to "The Bachelor" series to a whole new level and decided to apply to be a bachelorette on the next Bachelor. I seriously don't think I'll get anywhere.. all I did was fill out a brief form with very basic info and submitted a picture. I have to laugh at myself for even trying. I have to admit though, there is a small piece of me, a very unrealistic piece, that hopes to make it. I know that I have no idea how tough this whole process would be and how I would totally not fit in as a devoted Christian.. but hey.. try it out and see what happens!! Nothing probably. stay tuned...

Sad

2009-07-28T07:46:00.000-07:00

It's raining outside and my mood equals the gloomy weather. Jillian the bachelorette picked the wrong dude!! Most women in america would agree.. Ed just isn't quite the package that Kiptyn or Reid were. I don't think they will last. Super bummed!!!!!!!!!!!!!

All will be redeemed if Kiptyn is chosen for the new bachelor. Love him!! He's definately the total package. Lots of women will sign up for him.