The Weavers

Life As We Know It

2012-02-12T16:34:00.002-06:00

I'm still here. It's hard to believe I haven't posted since the first day of the month. Here it is already the 12th.

I wish I had something magnificent to blog about, but I honestly don't. I've just been going through life.

The husband just got home from a 2.5 week business trip. YUCK! He did get to come home last weekend so I got to see him for a couple of days during that time.

With him being out of town, I've been a pretty boring person. Not that I'm all that exciting when he is around.

My days have consisted of going to work, coming home to enjoy a hot bath and a good book, and then going to bed.

Sadly my biggest accomplishment from the past few weeks is becoming addicted to yet another TV show. Have you seen Big Bang Theory? Oh my! It makes me laugh so hard. Definitely a new favorite.

Today we have just stayed in bed all day watching TV and enjoying being in the same room again. I miss my man while he's gone!

I have a pretty busy week coming up. Tutoring after school, professional development workshop, parent-teacher conferences, and a meeting with parents about an upcoming trip to D.C. I'm sure there is more, but those are the things that stick out. Thankfully it will all be followed by a four day weekend. YAY!

There's a chance we may get some snow tonight or tomorrow. I have mixed emotions. I LOVE snow!!! And part of me wouldn't mind ONE snow day. I don't want more than one though. I want to be out of school before Memorial Day. But another part of me thinks we've made it this far without one. Let's just skip the snow and start summer a little earlier. Tomorrow is my busiest day of the week and I honestly wouldn't mind have another lazy day. We'll see.

That's it. Just my boring life that's been going on. Maybe something big and exciting will happen soon. You never know. :)

Wordless Wednesday - Happy February!

2012-02-01T16:35:00.001-06:00

Flash Mobs & A Recipe

2012-01-24T18:07:00.007-06:00

Last week I received an email asking me to participate in our pep rally today. I LOVE stuff like this. It reminds how much I've come out of my shell since high school. I've really lightened up with stuff like this and I know I owe it to the husband. Anyway. I saw that it was a dance so I jumped at the opportunity to participate. It also said something about a flash mob, and being uncool, I had no idea what that was, but it sounded fun.

When I learned exactly what a flash mob was, I even more excited. Apparently it's a new craze. It's planned, but appears spontaneous. One person starts dancing in the middle of say Target. Slowly one by one people start joining in until there is a crowd doing this dance.

So there are kids sat enjoying a typical pep rally this afternoon when our high school principal started to make an announcement. He barely got started and all of a sudden a Justin Beiber song started blaring. He pretended to be upset that he had been interrupted and then he broke down into our dance. He really hammed it up. The kids went wild immediately. One by one several teachers, including me, made our way down to the gym floor and joined him.

It was so much fun. Since I was dancing I didn't get any pictures. You'll have to take my word that we were GOOD and the kids loved it. :)

Just another reason I'm blessed by my job.

I found a recipe on pinterest awhile back that I wanted to try. Ya'll I never get excited about a new recipe. I don't enjoy cooking. But I've been excited about trying this one. Andrew has been working extremely late for a couple of weeks and we've pretty much eaten dinner separately except on the weekends for the past two weeks. He has been getting ready for tomorrow, when he leaves for a couple of weeks.

I was determined to try this recipe tonight even if it meant I didn't eat until 8. We still ate separately, but we ate the same meal this time.

The recipe was for sweet and spicy bacon chicken. You can find it here. I baked instead of grilled because I have no idea how to turn our grill on. That's the husband's territory.

The chicken was really good. I'm not a huge fan of glazed brown sugar so I would probably leave that out next time. I know that takes away the sweet part. Ours was pretty much all sweet because I didn't use enough chili powder. I was fearful of using too much and ended up using too little.

The husband told me several times that the chicken was really good so we will be adding to the short list of meals I not only know how to make, but will eat. HA!

I also made dessert. We love cheesecake and it's an easy dessert that I know will not go to waste. Over the week, we (or I since he is leaving) will eat the whole thing.

But you, O LORD, are a shield around me; you are my glory, the one who holds my head high.

Psalm 3:3

A Shining Light

2012-01-23T17:23:00.002-06:00

I think there are a lot people out there who believe God is no longer in public schools. They think our government has the power to remove Him from public schools.

People can be ignorant sometimes.

First of all no man made law has the ability to take God out of anything. He is there in those public schools whether people want to acknowledge it or not. Personally, I praise Him for being in those public schools. I work in one.

I am extremely blessed to work in a place where God is not only acknowledged, but welcomed. I'm blessed to work for a boss who quotes/uses scripture on a regular basis with students, parents, and faculty without hesitation. I'm blessed to work for a boss who prays for her school and community. I am blessed to work with a group of people who meet once a month to pray for each other and for our students.

In Matthew 5:14, God tells us that we are the light of the world. We are to let our light shine and not hide it. I'll confess that I work in an environment that makes it easy to let my light shine. I am so thankful that I can openly discuss my faith with my students.

There are so many people who are persecuted for even owning a copy of God's Word, let alone sharing about it. I pray for those people and beg you to join me in that prayer. That type of persecution is something that as a Christian in the United States, I can't even fathom. The worst I deal with is someone disagreeing with me. My life isn't threatened because of my belief in God.

Today one of my student's allowed her light to shine. Every once in awhile I'll reward my students with some music while we work. The rule is if I have never heard the song, we can't listen to it. Today a young lady in one of my math classes was begging me to listen to her new favorite song. She wanted to listen to At Your Name by Phil Whickam. No way could I resist that one. She proudly played her song and we had a little praise session right there in math class while working on congruent figures. It was GREAT!!!

I'm telling you, God has really been moving through HGS this year. He has done some amazing things. I've watched him turn ashes to beauty. I wish I could even begin to share with you the things I've been blessed to witness this year. They can all be summed up in the fact that God is good. Always!

Now I stand on solid ground, and I will publicly praise the LORD.

Psalm 26:12

Our Weekend in Pictures

2012-01-16T12:15:00.007-06:00

The iPhone has been busy lately. I've been taking pictures of everything we do. I might possibly have a sickness. The husband is tired of me shoving my phone in his face and telling him to smile.

We had a nice weekend together. Thought I'd share a few of those pics and record our weekend for memory sake.

Ms. Liberty Belle got a new toy. She loves it!!

Andrew and I had lunch @ McAlister's Saturday. It wasn't my first choice, but was actually pretty good. My s-i-l, Joy, will be proud to know I'm learning to like their sweet tea. HA!

We followed with dessert at Shake's. Butterfinger Concrete = YUM!

Liberty and I curled up and watched the Miss America pageant Saturday night. We were a little disappointed with the whole pageant, but we had fun watching online with our twitter and facebook friends.

I want a leather jacket. I considered this one for about half a second. It's a cheapy from Target. I want a brown one.

Liam Bailey and I went and picked up dinner Sunday night. He's by "go" buddy. He loves to go bye bye.

I bought some new workout clothes for Zumba. I feel so athletic wearing real workout gear. I normally just wear gym shorts and a t-shirt.

I scored a new Karen Kingsbury book for $3 @ Mardel. I can't wait for the last book of this series to come out in March so that I can read them.

I bought a new razorback shirt on etsy. I was excited to see it in the mail this weekend.

The blessing of the LORD makes a person rich, and he adds no sorrow with it.

Psalm 10:22

Up, Up, and Away

2012-01-08T20:03:00.009-06:00

Yesterday was the big day. I woke up excited to go flying with the husband. Of course the closer we got to the flying center the more nervous I got. I really do not enjoy flying.

We thought we would do some debriefing down on the ground, fly for 30 minutes or so, and then more debriefing on the ground. That's not what happened at all. As soon as we got there our instructor took us out to the plane.

We climbed in and got all buckled up. Andrew and the instructor went through a pre-flight checklist and started contact with the control tower. I had the biggest smile on my face during all this. I knew Andrew was loving every minute and that made me a happy wife.

The control tower gave us permission for take off and we were on our way. It was a little scary at first, but it didn't take long for me to relax and enjoy the flight. We had a bit of turbulence which I was not a fan of at all.

I enjoyed seeing God's creation from a new perspective. It was beautiful. I would LOVE to go during the fall when the leaves are changing colors. Our instructor flew us out to Petit Jean so we could circle around the waterfall. Though I loved seeing the waterfall, I was not a fan of the circling. That plane was way too slanted for my preference.
After he circled the waterfall a couple of times he asked Andrew if he knew which way Little Rock was. Apparently lots of people get up there and don't know which direction home is. Andrew said he knew the way and then proceeded to fly us home. Our instructor took back over when we got close so that he could land the plane.

I actually really enjoyed the flight. I think it was because I knew Andrew was loving it. It is something I would definitely do again.

But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.

Isaiah 40:31

Celebrating Number Eight

2012-01-03T17:54:00.002-06:00

Eight years ago I had the honor of becoming Mrs. Andrew Weaver.

He is truly my best friend. The past eight years have been full of ups and downs as I'm sure it is with all marriages. We are two sinners. That's always enough to make things interesting.

We usually celebrate with dinner at Applebee's (where we went on our first date) and a movie. This year we decided to break tradition. His mom and dad gave us a gift card to Outback for Christmas so we decided to dine there. It was so yummy.

Andrew started with ahi tuna. He loves it! I can't bring myself to try it.

I chowed down on a yummy plate of pasta.

In between all the yummy food, I gave Andrew his anniversary gift.

One of the things I love most about my husband is that he is a dreamer. That man can make anything sound like a good idea and I mean anything. I am absolutely terrified of planes. I cry every time I go to the airport. Yet, this Saturday I'm climbing into a small plane and going for a nice little afternoon flight with my husband. As a little anniversary surprise, I scheduled for him to take a flying lesson. He has always wanted to get his pilot's license and someday own a plane. We can't really afford a plane right now, but he can at least have fun for a day.

I have been so excited to tell him. I think he was pretty shocked. He said, "I'm feeling better already." I think it had been a long day of work. :)

I'll take that as a good sign.

We opted out of the movie this year. Reality took over. I go back to work tomorrow and honestly I've done nothing to prepare. I need to make a few seating charts and write a few lesson plans. Nothing too big. HA! He is getting up early and heading to Alabama for work. We didn't need to be out late. I guess that is what eight years of marriage looks like. :)

I don't mind. I told a friend today that each year gets easier and better. I love being married to my husband. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else other than right here by his side dreaming with him.

So again I say, each man must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.

Ephesians 5:33

Tuesday Tunes: Day After Day

2012-01-03T07:43:00.001-06:00

I've mentioned before that KLOVE has free songs for iTunes on their website. They offer a new song every other week or so. I LOVE this. My playlist has filled up pretty quick with their free songs.

Right now they are offering Day After Day by Kristian Stanfill. It's a really good song that I think you will like. Give it a listen and then go download it for free.

2012

2012-01-02T19:17:00.003-06:00

It seems we are already two days into the new year. I love starting a new year. I always go into it with high hopes. Some of my hopes may be unrealistic, but that's part of the fun in my opinion. Andrew and I are dreamers. I like that about us.

I always start the new year with the goal to spend more time in the Word, more time with Jesus. I think it is the most important thing I can do with the year. I recently started reading The Pursuit of Holiness by Jerry Bridges. I did a Bible study by him a few years ago on respectable sins that I truly enjoyed. It was one of those studies that cut deep down to the core. Those are the best kind - the hardest kind, but the best kind. I'm a chapter into this new book and I've already been convicted of things in my life that need to change. It talked about how we seem to downsize our sin because there are other people out there doing sins that are worse. That just isn't factual. In God's eyes sin is sin. He doesn't categorize sin the way we do. Our sin is offensive to God no matter how small it may seem to us. That is the thing that has stuck out to me the most. I'm trying to grasp just how offensive it is to God. We are sinning against Him.

Okay preaching over. It was more for me than you anyway. I'm trying to really take my time with this book and process it. As a lover of books, I tend to just read through it and move on without mediating and soaking in what it is God wants me to learn. I'm trying to not do that with this book.

While we are on the topic of books, one of my goals this year is to keep a running list of all the books I read in 2012. A few days before Christmas break, one of my students asked me how many books I had read since the beginning of school. I keep a board in my room that lets my students know what I just finished reading, am reading, and plan to read. Some of them really like to see it change. They've noticed it changes quite frequently. I was not able to answer the question of how many books I'd read, though I think I came up with a pretty good estimate. So this year, I plan to keep a list of books that I read. I'm curious to see how many I will read this year

I go back to work Wednesday. I'm sort of in denial about the fact. I'm not dreading it. I've missed my students and we have some exciting thing coming up this semester. But at the same time I have truly enjoyed my free time. I've read and scrapbooked and just enjoyed being home. I hope I can keep up with my scrapbooking once I'm back at work. I have several projects to finish.

Andrew and I have spent the past few days doing a little cleaning and organizing. We've haven't accomplished as much as I would have liked, but we have definitely made some progress. Our big project was cleaning out and organizing our attic. We hope that will help up with the inside of the house. Now we have a place to store things.

I'm looking forward to seeing what 2012 brings for our little family. There are some pretty big things that I would LOVE to see happen, but I'm trusting God in all of it. I am trusting that if we will let him, He will do big things in our lives and through our lives.

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.

Jeremiah 29:11

Our Year in Review

2011-12-31T13:57:00.017-06:00

2011 was good to Andrew and I. We made lots of good memories. The end of the year always makes me thankful for my blog. I love to go back and look at all the things we did over the year. I can see times when we laughed, times when we cried, struggles, growth, and so much more.

As I was looking back I tried to pick a favorite memory from each month.

January We celebrated 7 years of marriage. Andrew was sick so there wasn't much celebrating. I cut off a large amount of my hair and gave it to locks of love.

February We enjoyed a snow day together and Andrew surprised me with a Kindle for Valentine's Day.

March Spring Break! We went to our first Razorback baseball game and had a blast. Winter Jam was definitely a highlight of the month. I was busy planning a surprise party.

April Andrew turned 30! His surprise party was a big success. We saw James Taylor in concert. Andrew bought a new car. We spent an evening stuck in the back of Wal-Mart during tornadoes.

May I wrote and performed my first rap. We celebrated lots of birthdays and graduations. I started Zumba!

June I spent a fabulous week on the beach of Destin with two sweet girlfriends. The trip included parasailing and my first tattoo (fake of course).

July We celebrated with my great-grandma as she turned 89 and with my parents as they celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary.

August Summer break ended and it was back to school for me. I turned 28!! My Daddy surprised me by bringing me cupcakes to work. Then we celebrated at DGP with friends and family.

September I spent the month playing with new camera. Football season started which made for some fun and exciting Saturdays.

October We had our first in house ping pong tournament and celebrated lots of birthdays.

November Of course we celebrated Thanksgiving with our families. One of my students went to be with Jesus. I made my first etsy sale. I practiced my photography skills on my fam.

December Lots of cooking, Christmas with family, DIY projects!! Scroll down to read about these adventures.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

Hebrews 13:8

Christmas 2011

2011-12-27T19:54:00.012-06:00

It's the most wonderful time of the year.

Words to describe this Christmas seem to have left me. I've sat down a couple of times and tried to blog about the past few days, but I don't know where to start.

It has been one of the best Christmases I've ever had. The past few days have left me feeling extremely blessed and grateful. Andrew and I have been able to spend time with our families and make memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

We exchanged gifts with one another Friday evening because my husband was so excited to give me my new iPhone 4s. He just can't help himself when he thinks I'm really going to like something. And like it, I do! I was truly surprised.

I was also excited to give him his Keurig. He has drank countless cups of coffee since Friday night.

Saturday we spent time with my family. I think my favorite memory from Friday was sitting around the house Friday night reminiscing about the past. We laughed until we cried. My brother's girlfriend, Melissa, came over for a little gift exchange. It was nice to get to know her a little better and spend time with her. She seems to make my brother happy and for that I'm thankful.
My parents, the husband, my brother, and I exchanged gifts from one another Sunday morning. I have to say one of my favorite gifts this year was a DQ shirt from my brother. I love me some DQ!!

I had Andrew take my pic with this tray of yumminess. Ya'll I actually cooked this year. And what's even more amazing- people said it was good!! So proud of myself.

Sunday afternoon we headed to Osceola to spend Christmas night with Andrew's family. Andrew is the youngest of six and they were all there with their families for the night...the whole night. It was one big sleepover. Lots of fun. I was able to get some precious time with each of my nieces and nephews. That was extra special to me this Christmas. I played video games with the older boys, paper dolls with the little girls, and watched The Grinch with little J.L.

My favorite moment of this Christmas was being part of a huge surprise for Andrew's oldest brother Chris. The whole family went in and bought him a new iPad2. He was definitely surprised and blessed I think.

The dogs traveled with us everywhere we went. They stayed in garages across Arkansas. I'm pretty sure they were more than happy to be back at home.

We have one more Christmas celebration to attend before the year is over. I'm sure it will be just as special as the others.

God has given me a lot to be thankful for, more than I deserve.

And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them.
Mark 10:16

Tuesday Tunes: We Are

2011-12-27T08:50:00.003-06:00

This has quickly become a new favorite of mine. It has also become my prayer, that I will let my light shine.

You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.
Matthew 5:14

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T13:56:00.002-06:00

This year it seems that I have been dreaming more than ever about future Christmases that Andrew and I will share with our children. I haven't been sad about it. Excited is actually the word I would use. I trust that someday God will show us that it is the right time for us to start adding to our family. I cannot wait for that time.

I have truly enjoyed hearing the memories that my friends are making with their young children. Watching them do whatever it takes to make their child's wish come true.

I cannot wait until we have our turn to be scouring the town and the internet looking for that special item.

Sharing about the birth of Jesus is the thing I look forward to most. I have gotten so many good ideas on ways to do this from friends and family. I want our children to know the real reason we celebrate Christmas and that it isn't about getting gifts. It's about giving to others because we ourselves have been blessed. It's about celebrating the birth of the One who came to this earth to save us from our sins.

I pray for those who are lonely this Christmas season, whether it be because, like us, they don't have the children they dream about, or because they've lost a loved one. I pray that they would find peace in Jesus and that he would be their comfort this season.

Merry Christmas to you and yours. We love you!

-The Weavers

Off to a Good Start

2011-12-20T20:25:00.006-06:00

I am officially on Christmas break. I had to go to work today until 10:30 and then the fun started.

I called my Mommom on my way home to get the 411 on Christmas Eve plans. I ended up talking to her for two hours. I wish I lived closer to her. I'd like to visit with her more than I do.

I managed to do a little cleaning while on the phone with her. I was just walking around the house picking things up and putting them away.

After I got off the phone with her I started watching a cheesy Christmas movie that I DVR'd. The DVR is set to record quite a few cheesy movies over the next few days. I just love them. Don't you?

In the middle of my movie I decided that I was hungry for some DQ. I drove 40 minutes to Conway for some DQ. In case you were wondering, it was well worth it. While in Conway I decided to check out a toy store my sister-in-laws told me about. They always find the neatest little stores. This one didn't disappoint. As soon as I walked in, I text Jill that it was very overwhelming. They had everything you could ever dream of as a child. I just wish I still had little ones that I need to buy for this year. They were the first ones I bought gifts for.

However, I did find this amazing playmat.

I wanted to buy it so bad. But it was $50 and I don't have a baby to play on it. Some day though. :)

I came home from my shopping/DQ expedition and started scrapbooking. I scrapbooked our Christmas cards from last year and a few from this year. I love keeping them and going back and looking through them. It's fun to see how families grow and change over the years.

I finished my cheesy movie and then played around on the computer. For some reason, I don't get emails from my sister-in-law. She is the only one that I have problems with. I have never blocked and her and the emails aren't in my spam or any other folder. I have no idea what I can't get new emails from her. Replies work just fine. Any ideas?

Anyway...Christmas break is off to a great start. Tomorrow I have lunch with two sweet ladies.

These are going to be a good two weeks.

Our 2011 Christmas Card

2011-12-18T18:10:00.006-06:00

I'm finally sharing our Christmas card with you. I wanted to wait until they were mailed out and then time just got away from me.

I've already posted about how photo shoot #1 was a complete disaster.

I was trying my hardest not to be too picky about our photos. The husband was being extremely cooperative and I didn't want him to get irritated with my being too picky.

After one bad photo shoot I decided funny was the way to go. I figured I would be more easily pleased if were were going for goofy and not serious.

That night after we had finished the bad photo shoot, I was out grabbing dinner which led me to drive by Goodwill. An idea hit me. We had cheesy Christmas sweaters for the dogs already, we just need some for the husband and I.

I came home and shared my idea with the husband. He liked it. So off we went shopping for cheesy, ugly Christmas sweaters. That turned into something slightly different.

Our card makes us smile and I'm happy with how it turned out. So without further ado here it is....

Sorry for the poor quality. I can't figure out to save it from the site

A funny story. We were out prop shopping and we had saved the pipe for last. We didn't know where to buy one, but figured we could get one at a tobacco store. Neither one of us had ever been in such a store before. The two in our town were both closed. It was between 7 and 7:30 on a Saturday night. The husband was driving around and I was searching for tobacco stores on my phone. There was one in the next town over about 15 minutes away. I decided to call before we drove out there. My first question was concerning their closing time. I then proceed to ask the lady, "Do you sell pipes?" She said in a strange voice..."We sell smoking pipes for smoking tobacco...." I thanked her and got off the phone. I was describing the strange way in which she answered my question to the husband. I was totally clueless. He just looked at me and said, "They probably thought you were wanting a crack pipe." HA! Never even occurred to me. :)

A New Look for a New Year

2011-12-18T10:39:00.003-06:00

Can you believe a new year is quickly approaching? 2011 has flown by for me. It's been a whirlwind of craziness.

I started thinking a few months ago that it was about time for a new look here on the old blog. I've even been toying around with the idea of a new blog address. I'm just not sure I want to go through that pain. Have you ever switched blog addresses? How did it go? Worth the trouble?

New address or not I'm in the market for a new look. Lucky enough, my sweet friend Miranda is hosting a giveaway for a new blog design. I'm thrilled about this giveaway. I probably shouldn't even be sharing it with you because I want to win. :)

Go on over and check out her giveaway here. She does a great job! You won't regret it.

Baby It's Cold Outside

2011-12-13T16:33:00.003-06:00

I am bad about not blogging about specific memories because I let too much time slip by. I don't want to do that anymore. If it is something I want to remember, I'm going to blog about it even if it didn't happen a month ago.

This post is about something that happened a week ago.

Last Tuesday I came home from school and started grading papers, while catching up on facebook. It seemed, according to facebook, that it was snowing everywhere but at my house. I had been craving breakfast for a few days so I text the husband and informed him that we were going to Cracker Barrel for dinner. What better way to spend a cold evening than by enjoying pancakes by their big fire place. We headed that way as soon as he got home from work.

Unfortunately it didn't go quite as planned. We didn't get to sit by the fireplace and all in all, it just wasn't the best experience. Oh well. We tried.

On the way to Cracker Barrel though, I may have ~~whined~~ mentioned to the husband that everyone except me was getting to experience the snow. He pointed out that it wouldn't stick and get me out of school. That wasn't my wish though, I just wanted to enjoy the snow. I love snow. It's beautiful.

To top of my cold evening I decided to enjoy a nice hot bubble bath with a good book when we got back home. Awww! Perfect ending to my day.

I soaked in my bubble bath for awhile and then almost instantly fell asleep once I was in bed. Isn't it amazing how relaxing a hot bath can be? I love it!

I felt like I had been asleep for several hours when the husband woke me up. He sweetly nudged me and said, "I thought you'd want to know it's snowing, babe." I wiped my sleepy eyes and climbed out of bed. Sure enough, big beautiful flakes were falling from the sky. It put a big smile on my face despite the fact that it was 12:30 in the morning. I took a few minutes to enjoy the snow and then went back to sleep.

I'm so glad he woke me up. It was a little think he knew would make me happy.

It was perfect. No ice. Gone by noon the next day with little mess. That's my kind of snow.

Say Cheese

2011-12-10T11:24:00.003-06:00

I decided months ago what I wanted for our Christmas card this year. In my head it was absolutely perfect.

In real life - Well, it didn't turn out quite the way I had planned.

So then began the agony of trying to find a plan B. I had no idea what to do since Plan A failed. The husband and I never seemed to have a free day together when it was nice outside.

Until yesterday. We were both home with no plans and it was pretty outside.

We got dressed and headed to the backyard.

The only way to sum our photo adventure - FAIL!

I didn't like anything about our backyard. The dogs weren't being cooperative. It just wasn't a good deal.

My favorite picture of the day is this one.

Last night while I was out picking up dinner, an idea hit me. It was perfect. I came home and shared the idea with the husband. He agreed.

Plan C was on!

We got back in the car and set out do some shopping. Props were needed. We thought we had everything we needed. We came home and began getting dressed for a picture only to discover we no longer owned one of the needed props.

Photo shoot postponed.

I did some Christmas shopping today and picked up the last needed prop. Tonight we had fun taking our Christmas card pictures. We laughed which means you know they are some good pictures.

I absolutely cannot wait to get them in the mail. I think they will bring a smile to the faces of the recipients.

I don't want to share any of the pictures with you just yet. I want it to be a surprise. Once I've mailed them out, I promise to share the card with you. :)

Until then you will just have to wonder.

Miscellany Monday

2011-12-05T17:23:00.006-06:00

*We finally put the tree up last night. It makes me happy every time I look at it. We almost didn't put it up again this year. I'm so glad that we did. I love putting my ornaments on the tree. So many of them hold a special memory. As I'm unwrapping them I fall in love with them all over again.

*Speaking of ornaments, I mentioned awhile back that I was participating in a blog ornament exchange. Well, my ornament from Faith arrived today and it is absolutely perfect!!! I LOVE IT!! I have a small obsession with owls. Okay the husband has taken to calling me the weird owl lady, but whatever. This little guy came in the mail today.

*I got pulled over today. My tags expired last month. Oops. The state trooper who pulled me over happens to be the dad of two previous students. That good man recognized me and let me off with a warning. Whew!!! Will be getting new tags tomorrow.

*Last night before we put up the tree I was feeling all crafty so I went searching through the husband's side of the closet and made myself a scarf from one of his old t-shirts.. I like it. I got lots of compliments today and all my female students wanted a tutorial. I'll be posting one here soon, but you can find it on etsy if you can't wait.

*We received our first Christmas card today. I love this time of year when my mailbox is filled with beautiful cards. I'm still hoping to get ours made and out this year. Friends and family may be getting our cards the day before Christmas this year. I've never been this far behind. Trying not to let it stress me out.

My Man

2011-11-27T20:26:00.003-06:00

I came across this tonight while I was stalking other blogs. I do that from time to time when I'm bored - just read through random people's blogs. Strange I know.

I love my man. He is my very best friend. He's my rock. I don't know what I do without him.

So tonight, I thought I'd play this game and answer a few questions about my man.

1. Who is your man? Andrew

2. How long have you been together? We went on our first date ten years ago, were engaged 8 years ago, and will celebrate 8 years of marriage in January.

3. How long did you date? We dated on and off for two years before getting engaged.

4. How old is your man? My sweetie turned 30 this year.

5. Who eats more? Ha! Definitely him. :)

6. Who said "I love you" first? He did. I responded with "Okay".

7. Who is taller? The husband is a full foot taller than I am.

8. Who sings better? He is and I love that about him.

9. Who is smarter? Him, hands down. He is the smartest person I know. And I truly mean that.

10. Whose temper is worse? Hmm. I guess I will say his.

11. Who does the laundry? Most of the time I do the laundry, but he does help.

12. Who takes out the garbage? He does.

13. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? I do.

14. Who pays the bills? Thankfully he does. We tried several different ways of doing this before finding what works for us. He pays all of the bills except the water bill.

15. Who is better with the computer? Considering computers are his job, I'd say him. That man can do anything with a computer.

16. Who mows the lawn? Our nephew, Cody. HA! I'd say this is one of Andrew's least favorite chores so we pay our nephew to take care of it for us. Andrew doesn't have to worry about and Cody always has gas money. It works well for us. And we are so thankful that Cody doesn't mind.

17. Who cooks dinner? McDonald's, Wendy's, Taco Bell, ... Seriously we eat out too much. On the rare occasion we cook we typically cook together.

18. Who drives when you are together? Andrew - It's how we've survived almost 8 years of marriage. :)

19. Who pays when you go out? He pays nine out of ten times. Occasionally he'll ask me to. It doesn't really matter it all comes from the same place.

20. Who is most stubborn? That's tough. We are both very stubborn people.

21. Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Again - we are both very stubborn people. :)

22. Whose parents do you see the most? It's about even. Maybe mine parents since his have moved to Osceola. We love our families and try to spend as much time with as possible.

23. Who kissed who first? He kissed me!

24. Who asked who out? He asked me to hang out.

25. Who proposed? He proposed on my birthday.

26. Who is more sensitive? Definitely ME!

27. Who has more friends? He does.

28. Who has more siblings? Andrew has two brothers and three sisters. I have one brother.

29. Who wears the pants in the family? I like to think it's even, but in all honestly he does.

I tag...Jennifer, Chelsey, Sara, Jill, and whoever else wants to play along.

h

Thanksgiving

2011-11-26T22:46:00.005-06:00

Our Thanksgiving starts on Wednesday every year. That is when we celebrate with the Weavers. The past few years we have celebrated in Little Rock, but this year we headed three hours north to Osceola. Andrew's parents just moved into their new house and it was nice to celebrate in their new home this year. There was plenty of room. And we need lots of room to accommodate all of us.

Thursday we headed over to spend the day with my family. We celebrated my Momma's birthday along with Thanksgiving.

Andrew had to work Friday. I slept in and enjoyed every second of it. I got up and attacked the crowds around 9:30. I found a few good deals and then came back home. I spent the rest of the afternoon cleaning and watching football. Our hogs lost, but it's okay. We had a good year.

Yesterday was a busy day. We celebrated our nephew, Jackson's 4th birthday and our niece, Millie's 2nd birthday. Love those two.

Last night we brought all of the Christmas decor down from the attic. We rearranged furniture and cleaned the living room. By the time that was finished, we were both ready for bed. Hopefully the tree will go up soon. Since we didn't put a single decoration last year, I'm extra excited about it this year.

We still have not made any progress on the Christmas card. Well, that's not entirely true. I've picked out our card online. Now we just have to take pictures.

It's back to work tomorrow. Three weeks and then Christmas break. Yes, I'm already counting down. :)

Loss

2011-11-20T18:11:00.005-06:00

Edited to add: Another teacher just told me she heard B was saved last month. This lets my heart rejoice for him. I'm so glad to know this about him.

I'm at a loss for words right now. I received news earlier tonight that one of my students was in a go cart accident at his home and was air lifted to the hospital. I immediately began to pray for him and his family.

Shortly after I received word that he didn't make it.

B was only in 7th grade. He was 12 years old, maybe 13. I can't remember right now. He was a short little guy. The class clown. He was the kind of kid who raised his hand and then claimed to have forgotten his question because he thought that was funny. His stuff could be found all over our hallway because he left it all over the place. In all honesty, he drove me crazy. But he also made me laugh daily.

I will never understand this side of Heaven why things like this happen. I may not understand when I get to Heaven. I don't know if B was saved. I never asked. I'm kicking myself for that right now.

I want to line every one of my students up tomorrow and ask if they are saved.

Tomorrow. It's not going to be an easy day. If you think about it, pray for me and the other teachers. Pray for our students. Pray for B's family.

Jumping on the Bandwagon

2011-11-15T18:47:00.003-06:00

There was a time in my life when I swore off pinterest. I did not see what was so great about it. I save things I find all the time in folders in my favorites. My favorites are very organized. What was the difference between that and pinterest?

No one really seem to have an answer to that question.

A few weekends ago, Andrew and I spent a lot of time in a hospital. His dad had open heart surgery. Thankfully he is doing very well now. During that weekend there were times when it was not appropriate for girls to be in the room so I hung out in the waiting room with my sister-in-laws.

Joy Beth and I were visiting and playing on our phones when the subject of pinterest came up. She was showing me some super cute outfits that she had pinned. That was the moment it happend. I jumped right on that bandwagon and have been addicted ever since.

The only problem with pinning cute outfits is that is makes me want to go shopping. I want to go buy all the things I'm pinning.

Here are a few of my favorites.

Are you pinning???

My First Etsy Store Sale

2011-11-13T21:51:00.008-06:00

I opened an etsy store awhile back. I'd love to fill it with beautiful scrapbooks for sale, but I just haven't had the time. I haven't even been scrapbooking for me. I'm learning that it's okay to do a page at a time. I don't have to sit down and do an entire album in one night. With the suggestion of Chelsey, I've also made a list of projects I want/need to complete. I hope these two things will help me scrapbook on a more regular basis. I really do love it. It is such a great relaxation for me.

Last week I sold my first item on etsy. I was stoked! I ended up selling her two things for a birthday party for her triplets. How cool is that? She is doing a mickey mouse party.

I had the privilege of making the birthday banner. Here are a few pics. Please ignore the fact that my floors need to be cleaned. :) I told you, I'm working on it one thing at a time. Accountability people accountability.

Christmas Ornament Exhcange

2011-11-13T20:24:00.005-06:00

I'm starting to get into the Christmas spirit. I have been listening to Christmas music and watching Christmas movies for the past few weeks. Honestly, I'd probably go ahead and put up the tree, but the husband says no.

I stumbled across a Christmas Ornament Exchange tonight as I was reading different blogs. Tomorrow is the last day to sign up, so I'm excited I found it tonight.

I absolutely love Christmas ornaments. We have such a variety of ornaments. I love all things bright and funky. I will share a few with you after Thanksgiving when we start pulling the Christmas decor down out of the attic.

A Weekend With Family

2011-11-13T10:43:00.005-06:00

The husband and I spent the weekend with our fams. He headed north Saturday morning to help move his parents in their new house. I know they are thrilled to be at this point. Though I missed him, I'm glad he was able to go help them and spend time with them.

I headed north Friday right after work to spend time with my folks. My aunts, uncles, and cousins all gathered at my Mommom's house Friday night for dinner. Most were able to make it. Those who couldn't were missed.

I spent the night with my parents Friday night and was able to briefly meet the brother's new girlfriend.

Yesterday, we got dressed and went out to take some family pictures in the yard. I wanted to play with my new camera and my parents love me enough to let me. :) I think we got some good shots. I won't bombard you with pictures, but here are a few of my favorites.

My Wardrobe

2011-11-06T18:39:00.003-06:00

I posted last week's wardrobe selections on my teaching blog. Here is the link if you are interested. Just thought it would be fun.

The Maiden Name Game

2011-11-03T17:47:00.002-05:00

I received this as an email today. I decided to answer on the old blog here instead of sending an email to everyone.

1. Maiden name: - Ball

2. An animal – Bobcat

3. A boy's name – Benjamin

4. A girl's name – Belinda

5. An occupation – Bus Driver

6. A color – Brown

7. Something you wear – Beret

8. A beverage – Beer

9. A food – Burgers

10. Something found in the bathroom – Brush

11. A place – Branson

12. A reason for being late – Broken down car

13. Something you shout – Beware!

I'm supposed to find ten people to play so go ahead. Get started!! I'd love for you to leave me a comment saying you posted your answers. I'll come read. I promise!

Wordless Wednesday - I Heart Owls!

2011-11-02T18:31:00.000-05:00

It's November....

2011-11-01T17:42:00.005-05:00

So, it's November. I figured I better do a new post or you all would start to think I'd disappeared. That is if any of you are still out there. Are you out there?

Ya'll I started bootcamp last night. I'm not going to lie. It was hard! There was nothing fun about it. I miss Zumba. It confirmed the fact that I have absolutely no upper body strength. My arms are VERY sore today. Push ups are evil. :) Hoping I can survive the next six weeks.

This year is absolutely flying by. I've said that before, but it's never flown like it is this year. I don't want to even think about how close Christmas is. Andrew bought Michael Buble's Christmas album a couple of weeks ago. It is starting to get me in the Christmas mood. It's a pretty good cd. I think I might include it in Christmas give away soon.

Speaking of Christmas, I'm at a complete loss as to what we are going to do for our Christmas card this year. We've normally already had our photo shoot by this point. You see I've had this idea in my head for months, but I'm slowly coming to he realization that it just isn't going to come together the way I want. So now I'm completely clueless. Oh the husband had a suggestion. I vetoed that one immediately!! Though I'm getting desperate so if you totally don't "get" our card this year, you'll know I went with his suggestion. :)

On a completely different note, I'm on a mission to get our house clean and organized. I'm giving myself one or two jobs at a time. The whole shebang is way to overwhelming. I'm going to need you guys to hold me accountable. Ask me how it's going. K?

That's all I have for now. Maybe I'll have something worth blogging about soon. Right now we're just living and staying busy. :)

Tuesday Tunes: Forever Reign

2011-10-18T09:31:00.001-05:00

We've been singing this pretty often at church. It has quickly become one of my favorites.

The Amazing Liberty Belle

2011-10-16T16:13:00.003-05:00

Liberty's new favorite game is playing golf with her Daddy. He has practice golf balls so they play inside the house and in the backyard. He hits them and see fetches them. Today she started catching them in the air. When he quit playing she sat and stared at his golf balls crying. Guess she wasn't ready to quit.

Waiting...

2011-10-16T12:55:00.004-05:00

Lately I have been praying about something pretty big. It's one of those things that we don't want to act on until we are sure we have a clear answer from the Lord.

This past week I was feeling a little impatient about it. Okay I was feeling a lot impatient about it. I was more than ready to hear from God about how we should proceed.

God spoke. I'm not really crazy about his answer but I have no doubt that it is his answer for now. He spoke to me through his word.

Wednesday he gave me this verse. "Wait for the Lord; Be strong, and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the Lord." Psalm 27:14

When I read it I just smiled because I knew that is exactly what I needed to do.

The following day when I flipped my scripture calendar at school this verse appeared.

"We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps." Proverbs 16:9

I literally laughed out loud when I read it. I thought, Okay God. I will wait and try to be patient. :)

The verse on my blog is about trusting God's plans. It also came to mind.

I'm not very good at being patient, but what choice do I have when God specifically says Wait!!

Birthdays, Dentist, Friends, & Shoes

2011-10-13T18:43:00.009-05:00

I feel like I haven't blogged in forever. Life has been so busy lately. I can't even keep my days straight. I don't want to forget some of the things that have been going on so I thought I'd better stop for a minute and write them down.

This past weekend I got the opportunity to play photographer. I had so much fun with it. A sweet friend and coworker's little boy turned three. She let me crash the party and take some pictures. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed taking pictures. Ever since the husband bought me the new camera I've been dreaming of turning photography into a side job. Of course I have a long ways to go in learning how to use my camera and about photography in general. I have a gift certificate to take a class at a local camera store, but I'm doing a Beth Moore Bible study on the only night they offer the class.

Here is one of my favorite pictures from the birthday party. The birthday boy and his mommy.

I went straight from that birthday party to another birthday party. The Weavers were celebrating August and October birthdays. It was a sweet time with family.

The husband has been out of town for the past few days. The SAN (whatever that is) came in so he had to go to Dallas. Last night I occupied myself by having dinner with a sweet friend. We ended up sitting there talking until the place closed. Oops! I really enjoyed it. Too busy talking to take any pictures.

Today I had a dentist appointment. If you have been reading this blog for awhile you know that I absolutely hate going to the dentist. Today I was getting a filling and having my tooth shaped for a crown. Andrew had planned to take me, but then had to go out of town. I opted for the gas this time. I'd never had that before. I liked it! It really helped to keep me calm. The dentist was really great. I didn't feel a thing. :) I have to go back the first week of November to get my permanent crown and another filling. Oh joy!

I finally joined pinterest. I'm not sure I see what the big deal is. I have always saved things in folders in my favorites. This isn't any different other than I can see what others like. Just haven't been able to jump on this bandwagon.

I have however jumped on the Toms bandwagon. I have two pairs of Toms and two pairs of Bobs (Skecher's version of Toms). I actually prefer my Bobs. In my opinion, I think they are better made. I've been trying to convince the husband that I need these...

I also like these

One pair at a time. :)

Miscellany Monday

2011-10-03T21:20:00.003-05:00

How in the world is it already October? Dare I say that Christmas will be here before we know it?

There are a few things in our life that I really thought would happen by the end of the year. The big one is our house being sold. Considering we haven't even come close to putting it on the market, I'd say that isn't going to happen. Maybe by the end of next year.

-----

I think my obsession with owls might be getting out of control. And I love it! The husband is starting to call me the weird owl lady. But hey! At least it's not cats. :)

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I love my husband. I like him too. :) We are such homebodies. I'm glad that I genuinely like spending time with him. There are moments where I'm honestly overwhelmed with love for him. The longer I'm married to him, the more moments like that I have.

These moments make me think of my Granddad and my Mommom. He passed away when I was a baby. If you ask her about it him, she'll tell you he was as close to perfect as you can get here on Earth. That's how I feel about my husband. I want to cherish him and every moment I have with him while I have it. I hope you feel that way about your husband too. :)

Mushy time over now.

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I think I have a job interview Thursday. It's nothing big. It's tutoring students from my school after school two days a week. It's technically a second job since it is through an outside company. I've done it the past two years and it's easy money. I just assumed I would do it this year, but the husband kind of questioned me on it because I hadn't talked to him about it. He isn't for or against it, just hadn't talked to him. He is anti me doing anything extra this year. He knows how much I put on myself last year and wants me to have an easy year. See why I love him so much?!?

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The husband decided he wanted a ping pong table. Not sure why! I mean I love ping pong, but his decision was a bit random. I wouldn't let him get a full size ping pong table because I figured one of two things would happen. Either I wouldn't be able to park in the garage anymore or the table would stay folded up because of our cars and we would have wasted our money.

So he found a retractable net that fits to any table. Needless to say this weekend our dining table became a ping pong table for a night. Oh the fun we had!! I laughed until I cried as the husband made fun of my superior techniques. It was a blast. Can you tell he's a bit competitive? HA!

-----

And now for a hot bath to wind down and get ready for the week. Today was professional develop day with no students so it doesn't count in my book.

Wordless Wednesday - The Birdie Putt

2011-09-28T07:56:00.000-05:00

If...The Andrew Edition

2011-09-27T20:14:00.001-05:00

Here are the husband's answers. I didn't even have to beg. You'll see he was a real smarty pants on some questions. Others he really thought about.

•If Elaina were to get pregnant...I'd know my boys could swim.

•If I could have any job in the world…I'd be Eric Clapton's guitar tech.

•If I had a day to myself...I'd sleep.

•If I could get married all over again...It wouldn't be in Newport.

•If I could live anywhere in the U.S...I'd live in Sea Island, Georgia.

•If I were to have more children...I would have one child. I don't have any children.

•If I could have any talent in the world…I'd be a professional golfer.

•If you met me in real life...I don't know anyone who doesn't know me in real life. I don't have fake friends on blogs. (Don't worry I don't think your fake.)

•If I went back to school...I'd hate it as much as I did the last time.

•If money were not an object...I'd own one of everything.

•If I could meet one celebrity...There's really no one I'd like to meet that bad.

•If I could shop at only one store for the rest of my life...Got to be Wal-Mart Super Center or I'll starve to death.

•If I could choose an animal/pet...I would get a pet frog for Liberty.

•If I could go on a trip right now...St. Andrews, Scotland

•If I had to choose between a house cleaner and personal chef...House cleaner

•If I had the option to get plastic surgery...No

If......The Elaina Edition

2011-09-25T20:01:00.008-05:00

I saw this over on Katie's blog and thought it would be fun. Hoping I can sweet talk the hubs into doing his edition. :)

•If I were to get pregnant...I would be very excited!

•If I could have any job in the world…I love my job. It is what God has called me to do in this world. But I would love to be a professional photographer/scrapbooker.

•If I had a day to myself...I would scrapbook all morning, shop all afternoon, and read all night.

•If I could get married all over again...I'd marry my sweetie all over again in a heartbeat. Though I'd pick a different dress and a different venue this time. Something fun and a little crazy.

•If I could live anywhere in the U.S...I like living in Arkansas, but I would love a new house on a bigger piece of land.

•If I were to have more children...I would consider each and every one of them a blessing from God.

•If I could have any talent in the world…I wish I could sing.

•If you met me in real life...You would see that I'm a quiet girl.

•If I went back to school...I would get my masters and become a reading specialist.

•If money were not an object...We would already be out of this house and into our dream home.

•If I could meet one celebrity...Reese Witherspoon. She's pretty and I wonder if she is as nice in real life as she is in my head.

•If I could shop at only one store for the rest of my life...Target...They have everything a girl could need.

•If I could choose an animal/pet...My babies of course. Lib & Liam

•If I could go on a trip right now...Hawaii

•If I had to choose between a house cleaner and personal chef...House cleaner! Hands down!

•If I had the option to get plastic surgery…I wouldn't.

Be Okay!

2011-09-25T18:38:00.000-05:00

Have you seen this commercial? It always makes me smile.

Who Opened the Flood Gates?

2011-09-21T17:07:00.003-05:00

I'm not really sure to how to begin this post or even where I'm going with this post. Honestly, I'm not even sure if I'll hit publish when I'm finished. There are things I just feel like I need to write out. I figure it's my blog and I'll cry if I want to. Right?

Do you ever have days where it seems like every little thing makes you cry? You can't seem to keep it together for more than a few minutes before losing it all over again?

That's been me the past couple of days.

I have really been struggling with something personal lately. It's one of those things that I keep telling myself is crazy, but I can't make myself believe that. I don't want to talk about it to anyone because I know people will respond in one of two ways. They will either tell me I'm wrong and give me compliments because that's what you do in a situation like this or they will laugh and say I'm crazy for thinking that way.

I've only shared about this issue twice - once with my husband and once with a coworker. I got the two reactions above. I don't really blame my husband. He's a guy and I guess you could say this is a girl thing. But my coworker's reaction really hurt my feelings and pretty much reassured that I didn't need to share this with anyone else ever again.

So I feel like it's just me and this situation and I'm losing. Not fun. Last night something triggered the thought and I just lost it. I cried all night. And I'm talking the snot running out your nose, face all red and blotchy, can't catch your breath kind of crying.

I went to work today only to be greeted by a concerned parent who wanted to tell me everything I was doing as a teacher was wrong. Please don't go bashing this parent. She really was just concerned for her student. She wasn't nasty or anything like that. I believe she genuinely felt bad for what she was saying. Her child isn't your average student. I just couldn't take it today. It was all I could do to maintain professionalism and not cry. I pray that other teachers would never have to endure the type of meeting I had today. It was painful.

Today's goal quickly became to make it through the day without crying in front of my students. Thankfully God has blessed me with a great boss and some of the best coworkers in the world.

I just feel like someone has opened the flood gates. I can't seem to stop crying, which is frustrating.

Hoping to dance out my stress and worry and tears tonight during two hours of Zumba!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-21T08:25:00.000-05:00

Miscellany Monday

2011-09-19T20:39:00.006-05:00

Because I can't put together a real post...

1. Tonight was the season premier of The Sing Off. It's one of the few reality shows that gets me hooked.

It's a singing competition for a Capella groups. I got hooked last year. This is the third season for the show. My brother and I were texting back and forth throughout the show. I think it's probably one of the only shows that we both watch. :) It's normally a competition between us because we never like the same group.

2. Late last night the husband was making a snack. He decided to have a tuna sandwich. He puts the tuna in bowl and gets out the dill relish to mix in. The relish apparently got stuck so he was shaking it the way you would a ketchup bottle. Then I heard it. The big boom! The kitchen was covered in relish. My husband was covered in green gunk. My white kitchen cabinets were now green. And all I could do was laugh! After all that our mayo had gone bad so he didn't even get his tuna sandwich.

3. I'm loving my hogs this year! They are 3-0 right now. Yay! Of course they haven't played a real team yet. This weekend will be the true test. We are playing Bama on the road. My house is all decked out for the season. I have my razorback coasters out, my September canvas with a hog on it, and my new sign on my front door. My sweet friend, Jennifer, painted it for me. She did a fabulous job.

4. The husband and I went on a date Saturday night. We went to the movies to see Seven Days in Utopia. It was a good movie. I would definitely recommend it. I wasn't a fan of the ending. I don't like to be left hanging. :)

Lately...

2011-09-14T19:12:00.004-05:00

We have been super busy lately. It's exhausting how busy we've been really.

Let's back up to Friday. I spent Friday night at the high school game. I watched very little of the game. I was there on business...selling Popsicles to raise money for our trip to D.C. Don't know if I mentioned that yet. A coworker and I are taking a group of 7th and 8th graders to D.C. this spring. We are super excited about it. So anyway I spent Friday night selling Popsicles at the football game and practicing my new camera skills on something other than my sweet furbabies. Here is my favorite picture from the night.

Saturday I woke up bright and early and headed to Aqua Zumba. Okay so I just thought Zumba was a workout. Doing it in the water? That's a whole other level.

The rest of the day was spent gearing up for Saturday night's football game. Liam Bailey wore his jersey all year in anticipation.

I made some yummy chicken nachos for dinner. They were yummy if I do say so.

Sunday - nothing happened other than a major headache.

This week has been exhausting so far and it's only Wednesday. I have had something every night. I'm looking forward to Friday when I can come home and do nothing. Most of the things I've had or have are good things. Only one was a work thing. It's just being gone all day and all night wears this girl out.

Hoping you've had a more relaxing week than I've had.

My Birthday Present

2011-09-07T20:56:00.004-05:00

The husband bought me a new camera for my birthday. It is a Nikon D5100.

I am super excited about it. It finally arrived today so of course I had to play with it tonight. Thankfully I have two of the cutest subjects to try it out on. Here are my favorites from our little photo shoot tonight.

On a totally different note...I had my first class in Aqua Zumba tonight. That was interesting. Definitely a workout. Looking forward to going back Saturday morning.

A Typical Husband & Wife Conversation

2011-09-06T17:47:00.003-05:00

As we are getting ready for work this morning...

Wife: "I love matching panties and bras. Even though no one but you sees them, it makes me feel pretty knowing I'm wearing them under my clothes." (I got new ones with my birthday money)

Husband: (Rolling his eyes) "Yeah, me too!"

Wife: "You like it when your boxers match?"

Husband: "Yep."

Wife: "What do you match your boxers to?"

Husband: "The left leg to the right leg. Duh!"

We were filled with laughter,and we sang for joy.And the other nations said,“What amazing things the Lord has done for them.” Psalm 126: 1-3

A Hint of Fall

2011-09-05T08:49:00.003-05:00

I opened the backdoor long enough to let Liberty and Liam out this morning. It was a bit cool. I immediately thought it felt and maybe even smelled a bit like fall.

It might have gotten me all excited. I'm excited. I love everything about fall. Plus I have a new dress, new boots, and a new jacket all just waiting to be worn this fall. I CAN NOT WAIT.

To me fall starts with the first Razorback game. That took place this past Saturday. It's time to break out all the fall/Razorback decor. Maybe I'll share some pics with you soon. They might have even be taken with my new camera...a birthday present from the husband that I'll share more about it later. I'm waiting for it to arrive. I have a new "fall" scent from scentsy called pumpkin marshmallow. It is wonderful! You must try it. I'm thinking about hosting a party later this month. If you live in the area, would you come? I'm always so nervous about hosting things like this. What if no one shows up? Aww my insecurities.

Anyway.

The husband spent the weekend in Osceola visiting with his family and helping his parents work on their new house. We were supposed to go together, but Friday I decided we should go our separate ways. Me to my family Friday night and him to his on Saturday. I was WAY behind on grading papers, because who grades papers on their birthday or after sitting at he first football game all night? I knew going to Osceola would leave me stressed out today trying to finish everything before tomorrow. I guess I could have taken it with me and worked on it there, but that seemed a bit rude to me.

I'm glad I decided to stay behind because I've been sick all weekend. I have a horrible cold. I'm sneezing all over all the place and I can't be up for more than a few minutes before I feel awful and need to sit back down. I wanted so badly to have the house clean before the husband came home, but I just haven't felt like it. I managed to get about half of my papers graded Saturday night and I've done a bit of laundry here and there.

I'm feeling a little better this morning so maybe I can get a little more done before he comes home.

Birthday

2011-09-03T16:58:00.005-05:00

This past Tuesday was my 28th birthday. I have officially entered my late twenties. Life at 28 is not at all what I had expected. First of all, 28 doesn't feel as old as I once thought it might. I'm married to my best friend and it's better than I could have ever dreamed. Still no babies, except for those two crazy furbabies and I'm okay with that.

I had a great birthday for the most part. I woke up Tuesday morning to a what felt like a thousand facebook messages and text wishing me a happy birthday. My momma called around 6:45 the way she does every year - something I look forward to every year. I got all dressed up for the day. Make up and everything. A rare occasion for me.

I decided to treat myself to chocolate milk and donuts on the way to school. When I arrived at school, I was bombarded with several more birthday wishes. A former student brought me a balloon tied to kit-kats with the sweetest card. Made me cry

My sweet friends and coworkers that I eat lunch with everyday surprised me with a Razorback Tervis Tumbler and a Sonic gift card. They are the best

The biggest surprise of the day occurred around 9:30. Two of my students walked in carrying cupcakes and behind them was my daddy. He not only baked cupcakes, but drove two hours to deliver them. How sweet is he!! I have the best parents! He stayed a couple of hours and visited. I'm glad he was able to see me at work.

Last night I drove to my Mommom's house to celebrate with my family. She made me chicken and dumplings. My favorite! They were so good. I ate until I was miserable.

My talented cousin, Ginger, made me the cutest owl cake. I'm obsessed with owls. She did a fab job as always. It tasted as good as it looked.

It was a pretty good birthday. I'm blessed with lots of wonderful family and friends.

My Man

2011-08-28T14:03:00.009-05:00

He's my best friend.

He makes me laugh.

He believes in me and makes me believe in myself.

He's the smartest person I know.

He loves God.

He loves his family.

He makes me feel safe.

He makes being his wife the easiest, best job in the world.

"I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine" Song of Solomon 6:3

Tuesday Tunes: Hold Me

2011-08-23T18:08:00.001-05:00

I am a huge Toby Mac fan!! HUGE!! The husband and I had the opportunity to see him in concert last year. Best concert I've ever been to. Hands down!!

He helps out Jamie Grace in her new song "Hold Me". He periodically helps new artist get started in the business. How nice is that!

I wasn't real crazy about this song at first, but it has quickly grown on me and is now becoming one of my favorites. It's catchy. Let me know what you think.

Miscellany Monday

2011-08-21T19:20:00.011-05:00

**Friday, I learned that my BFF and her husband are expecting their first baby! I am super excited for them. This baby will be like a niece/nephew to me. Can't wait to meet and cuddle.

That makes two babies coming this spring. God is good!!

**My brother was wrestling in Blytheville Friday night. The husband and I headed up there when I got home from school. I was glad we were able to go see him. It was a good match. Unfortunately he lost.

**After wrestling we spent the night with the husband's parents. It was nice to spend some time with them. We were also able to spend some time with Cary, Sara, Jackson, & Millie.

**This morning I ran through a drive thru to pick up breakfast. It was one with two windows. You know...where you pay at the first window and pick up your food at the second window. This morning before I had even finished paying at the first window, my food was hanging out the second window. There was this hand holding my food out the window. Does this bother anyone else? I think it is so rude. I know it's supposed to be fast food, but it seems like they can't get rid of you fast enough when they do this. It is one of my biggest pet peeves.

** This afternoon I took the trash out. I came back in and started unloading the dishwasher. Liberty walked over by the front door and started barking. It was her "something is here that shouldn't be" bark. I thought maybe I didn't shut the door all the way and she saw people outside. I walked over there only to find a snake IN MY HOUSE!!

I am deathly afraid of snakes. I immediately started crying and saying I couldn't get it out. But I couldn't leave it in my house either. Our broom was in the garage and I couldn't very well go out there. I grabbed one of Andrew's golf clubs to shoo it out. I was crying and praying the whole time. then I called the husband freaking out. He of course acts like I'm overreacting. Ummmm....there is a SNAKE IN MY HOUSE!! I got it out, but I can't shake the creepy feeling now. Lib saved my life.

First Day of School

2011-08-15T19:32:00.002-05:00

It's official. School is back in session. I have been looking forward to this for quite some time. I have such high hopes for this year. I feel like I'm ready to help this group of 7th graders grow and succeed academically.

Today did not disappoint. I had a great first day. I've got some rowdy boys, but that's not something that can't be solved.

Though I look forward to the first day every year, I'm glad to have it out of the way. One. It is exhausting. Two. I'm ready to get down to good stuff. Let the real teaching begin.

I'm so excited about this year and a few things I've decided to do differently.

I normally take a picture on the first day of school. I can't believe I didn't today. It just didn't happen this morning and then the day was over and I was in my pajamas before I knew it. I'm an exhausted girl!

I struggled with the outfit this year. I normally have it planned weeks in advance. Not this year. I tried on several outfits last night, but nothing was speaking to me. This husband wasn't being real opinionated about it either. I finally settled on a pair of brown capris, a purple shirt, and a white cardigan.

I will be going to bed very soon, but I had a great first day and am ready tomorrow.

Tuesday Tunes:The More I Seek You

2011-08-09T07:27:00.002-05:00

We Are Having A.....

2011-08-01T09:46:00.005-05:00

new niece or nephew!!!!

Ha! Bet you thought I was going to say baby didn't you!?!

I can't believe I haven't blogged about it yet. We are thrilled.

Oh...it's Jill by the way. :) Amelia is going to be a big sister. They are due in March. If you want all the details go check out her blog.

I have just been in awe of God since I got the news. I mean it took them FOREVER it seemed to get pregnant with Miss Amelia. And they got pregnant with Baby #2 with no outside help and in less than a month. How can you not be in awe of God? He is so AWESOME!!

This sweet precious baby will make #13 for the nieces and nephews. I love each and every one of them. I love being an aunt. They have been such a blessing. They have also served as some really good birth control at times. :) HA!!

Some day Andrew and I will add to this group of sweet kiddos, but until then we enjoy loving on all our babies and the big kids too.

Eighty-nine and Thirty

2011-07-25T10:17:00.012-05:00

Andrew and I had a wonderful weekend. It was filled with family, at least for me it was. The original plan was to join my parents in Branson, Missouri on Thursday for a couple of days. Unfortunately, that didn't happen. The cabin they rented wasn't exactly what they expected and there wasn't really going to be room for us.

Friday, I sat around the house for awhile trying to decide what I wanted to do. Part of me wanted (and needed) to go work in my classroom. The other part of me wanted to head to the mall and do shopping. That's the part of me that one.

Forever 21 is one of my favorite stores. I can find cute things for a good price. Friday was no exception. I've really been trying to build my wardrobe for the upcoming school year. For the past several months, I've had the rule if I can't wear it to work, I'm not going to buy it. I broke that rule Friday. I bought two shirts and a dress. I have to tell you I'm absolutely giddy about my dress. I think with leggings and boots it will be SUPER cute this fall!!!

While I was at the mall, my brother called. He was in town and wanted to have dinner. We had some yummy burgers at Five Guys. Andrew didn't get off work in time to join us. :(. We sat there and talked forever. I miss my brother.

Saturday Andrew decided he wanted to play golf. I haven't joined him since he started playing again so I though I would ride along. His tee time was at eleven. It wasn't too bad. However by 2:30 when we still weren't finished, it was stinking hot outside!! The husband definitely got too much sun. He was a bit red, which resulted in him not feeling well for the rest of the night and Sunday morning.

We had a very busy day planned for Sunday, but things slowly fell off the calendar. Andrew and I slept in the living room due to some unfortunate events. We did not get a good night's sleep. That combined with all the sun Andrew got, we did not make it to church.

Mid morning I left him on the couch to rest and I headed north to celebrate my great grandmother's birthday. Granny Taylor turned 89 on Friday. She is my daddy's mom's mom. :) I love her! She gets around very well. I hope I get around half as well as she does when I'm that age. Shoot, I hope I live to be her age. She is an awesome fun lady.

It was nice to see some family members that I don't get to see very often.

My little cousin, Pheobe. She's adorable!

Cousins

Sunday was also my parent's anniversary. They have been married 30 years, which is awesome. I couldn't have asked for two better parents. They love one another and have always showed my brother and I what a good marriage looks like. They taught us that marriages are meant to last forever.

While visiting with my Mommom, I snapped some pictures of my parent's wedding pictures.

I love this picture of my Momma. I think her dress is beautiful. I was able to try it on while planning my own wedding. A memory I will cheris forever!

My Daddy

Mom and Dad with Mom's family.

Daddy with his parents...I love my Granny's dress.

And here are my parents now...still as beautiful and in love as they were thirty years ago when they said I do.

While I was looking at pictures I found Mommom and Granddad's wedding picture. Yes, my grandmother wore black on her wedding day. She didn't care. She was in love. During our visit I heard all about how my grandad was a near perfect man. Makes me smile. Wish I could have known him.

A Happy Marriage

2011-07-22T19:37:00.004-05:00

Everyone is sharing some great marriage advice over at Kelly's Korner. The husband and I have been married for 7.5 years. We've not yet perfected the art of marriage. I'll let you know if we ever manage that one.

We have a happy marriage though. The key to our marriage is that it is not between two people. Our marriage isn't just about the two of us. God is involved as well. Without him, I do not believe we would have made this far.

We make each other laugh. We share our lives with one another. We are each other's best friend. We communicate, though not always well. :) We're working on that constantly.

I've done a lot of scrapbooking this week. It has been so nice. I made some major headway on several projects. In fact, I managed to finish "Our First Year of Marriage" scrapbook. It only took me 7.5 years.

As I was flipping through it's pages the other day I read through some advice Andrew and I received before we were married. The guest at our rehearsal dinner wrote their advice to us on an index card. We read them after we were married. They still make me smile.

In no particular order here is the advice we received....

1. Andrew - Eat whatever Elaina cooks and ask for seconds. You can always sneak out and go to Mickey Dees later!
Elaina - Agree with Andrew even when he's wrong. :) Then just gloat inside because you know better.

2. Kiss a lot.

3. Always make time to listen to each other.

4. Andrew - **Communication, **Have fun...you must find ways to do this on a regular basis, **love her like each day is the last, and let her know it regularly, **Trust God!, ** Live Long & Prosper...my brother!
Elaina - **Communication...good luck with this! :), **Have fun, **Be patient...I know you are, or you wouldn't have made it this far, **Trust God!, **Thanks for taking him off our hands and welcome to the family.

5. I love you. You got married! Pryce Billson (This might be my favorite!! I think PB was like 5 at the time. :) )

6. Keep Christ at the center of all things. Think about it, talk about it, and pray about it.

7. Always remember what brought the two of you together. The love that you had in the beginning is what will get you through the years to come. Andrew, treat Elaina like a queen and she'll treat you like a king. Elaina, treat Andrew like our king and he'll treat you like a queen.

8. Andrew - treat Elaina like a queen and she will treat you like a king.
To you both - put Christ in the center of your home, if you will live by His Word, you will have "heave on earth"

9. Don't go to bed angry - settle your disputes before you sleep. Let God be your counselor and you will not need another. Realize that true love only grows and never dies. Always be kind and considerate - treat one another with dignity. Honor God and His church.

10. Andrew - if she knows you love her more than anything you'll be a good husband. always put her first.
Elaina - Support him no matter what! He's an idiot with big dreams, but your support is all he needs.

11. Always maintain your sense of humor. Be each other's best friend & marry rich.

12. My words of advice to you both, are to never go to sleep angry with one another. Be each other's BEST FRIEND! Put God first and then each other. Always find little ways to show each other that you care. And last but certainly not least, always keep your priorities in check.

13. Come see your bubba and make sure you have a bed for him at your place

14. Never go to bed angry! Never keep secrets! Always be open and honest! Keep God first in your lives! Be best friends forever!

15. Learn to share your lives with each other in body, soul, and spirit. Build your relationship on a firm foundation, Christ. He is the only solid rock. Put him 1st and you will have your priorities in order. Learn what it truly means to love someone. If you need help, look to 1 Corinthians 13. Pray together everyday and for each other every day. it always changes things.

16. Don't live too large too fast. Keep God in your marriage and he'll take care of you.

These are words that I will always cherish...some silly...some serious. Andrew and I are blessed to be surrounded by family who loves us and supports us.

New Friends

2011-07-21T09:19:00.002-05:00

Last night Andrew and I had dinner with some new friends. We met them Sunday at church during those awful few minutes where you are instructed to greet the people around you. I hate those few minutes. For Little Miss Social, I'm sure it's great. For me...not so much.

Either way our new friends, Jim & Katherine, were sitting in front of us at church. We shook hands and exchanged pleasantries. They are going to be hosting a community group in the fall and are seeking couples to join them.

Jim & Andrew have been emailing with one another this week working out the details leading us to dinner together last night.

I wasn't really looking forward it. I'm a bit of an introvert. Making conversation with people I know isn't always easy. Making conversation with complete strangers is next to impossible for me.

It turned out to be a lot of fun. Katherine is Little Miss Social. Talking to her was easy. They've been married five years and have no kids. They have two dogs who are like their kids. We found lots to talk about it. The conversation was easy and it flowed.

The boys talked too. About what, I don't know. I was way too involved in my conversation with Katherine.

I love friends. Sometimes it seems like we are the only non-newlywed couple without kids left. I wonder if there are other people out there in the same stage of life. And by choice.

They are hosting a little get together for the couples who might be in the community group in the fall. I'm looking forward to meeting the other couples and making some new friends.

Scrap Projects

2011-07-19T11:13:00.003-05:00

I mentioned in my last post that I had been working to finish up some long overdue scrapbook projects. I scrapped all day yesterday and am doing the same today.

I should probably be working on stuff for school and getting my classroom ready, but since this is my last week off....I'm going to enjoy it!!

Here's a peek at what I've been working on. I used my Instagram app to change the coloring a bit...they just look neater that way. :)

Liam Bailey "Talking"

2011-07-14T21:20:00.001-05:00

It cracks me up when they do this. Most of the time Liberty "talks" back, but I guess she wasn't in the mood tonight. :)

Wordless Wednesday - In Honor of Tour de France

2011-07-13T20:46:00.003-05:00

Tuesday Tidbits

2011-07-12T21:15:00.003-05:00

In attempt to write a blog post I've put together a few tidbits about what we've been up to.

1. I'm trying very hard not to think about the fact that school starts a month from Friday. YIKES!! I'm pumped about the upcoming year, but summer breaks are really nice. I enjoy being home.

2. The husband has taken up the game of golf again. Several years ago he came home from what must have been a bad game and said he quit. He was done. A couple of weeks ago he signed up for lessons and said he was going to give it one more go before quitting. He is LOVING his lessons. We've spent several nights at the driving range in the past couple of weeks. Sometimes I tag along and sometimes I stay home. When I tag along I normally read while he does his golf thing. Occasionally I video his golf swing so that he can analyze it later. That's right! I'm that good of a wife. :)

3. Liberty Belle has a new best friend. It is so hot outside that frogs hide under their water bowl. When we let her out she goes straight to the water bowl and waits for you to pick up the bowl. She sniffs the frogs until she scares them under her doghouse. At that point she runs around the dog house sticking her nose as far under it as she can trying to get to the frog. One day I made her come back in and she sat at the back door crying. I let her out and she went straight back to searching for her frog.

4. A little over a week ago I decided I was going to get a meal plan together and cook. We eat out way too much. My sweet husband informed me yesterday that this was all unnecessary. Just grill him some chicken and a veggie and he would be fine. He's decided to lose weight. So much for my cooking extravaganza...because that's what it was...an extravaganza

5. I've been finishing up a few scrapbook projects that I've had going on for way too long. I hope to share those with you later this week. I'm really pleased with how a few new things turned out.

Comments

2011-06-29T17:12:00.002-05:00

Is anyone else have trouble commenting on blogs? It is driving me crazy? Why can I comment on some but not on others?

Girls Beach Trip

2011-06-29T11:32:00.009-05:00

Where to begin? I think I've completely lost the ability to blog. I just got back from a beach vacation and I can't seem to put two words together about it.

I have school on the brain and I just can't seem to find the desire to blog. I've even been questioning rather or not to continue blogging. I'm trying to remember why I ever started blogging? I know it is to preserve the memories that Andrew and I make as husband and wife. I enjoy going back and reading through what we were doing this time last year.

Anyways...Last week I had the opportunity to go to Destin, FL with two of my sweet friends. Funny as it may be, I was a little nervous about the trip. This was the first vacation I've ever taken without the husband or my family. I went to church camp once with a friend. I was miserable. I'm such a homebody who gets homesick so easily.

I said goodbye to the husband and we were off.

We had a blast on the beach all week. We spent our days lazing around soaking up the sun and our nights either hanging out at the condo or getting dressed up to go out to dinner. Shopping was of course on our list of activities as well.

Doing the cha cha slide at Joe's Crab Shack

Dinner @ Hog's Breath

Amanda & I on the beach

Soaking up the Sun

Dinner @ Hard Rock

I think my favorite thing about the trip was parasailing. I've always wanted to do this so I was thrilled when Amanda asked if we'd be interested. We went Tuesday morning and I must say it was nothing like I expected. The boat is going fairly fast so I just assumed that it would feel like you were going fast in the air. It doesn't. it's like you are just floating up there. It is pretty peaceful and relaxing. I really enjoyed it. And on the way out to wear we parasailed, I saw a dolphin. First one ever. Only wish I had my camera.

All geared up

After landing

On the last two nights we went down to the beach to take some pics. Here are my favs from those two nights.

Tuesday Tunes: Spirit of the Lord

2011-06-28T18:15:00.001-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-22T15:49:00.002-05:00

From the Closet of Babes

2011-06-16T16:30:00.014-05:00

My sister-in-law, Jill, posted this picture of my niece on facebook the other day.

The caption read, "Amelia got quiet - went to check on her - she was in her closet reading her Bible. Haha! I hope she's still doing this when she's 16."

First of all....Is my niece not the most precious thing in the world?!! God has blessed me with 7 precious nieces and 5 wonderful nephews.

But anyways...this picture of Amelia got me to thinking about my own quiet time with God.

My mind first went to 1 Timothy where it says, "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity."

This 19 month old little girl is setting an example and she doesn't even know it. Like her Mom, I pray she is still setting that same example when she is 16.

The more I thought about this picture, the more I wondered if anyone noticed that I spent time with God.

Amelia got quiet and like the mom of any 19th month old that quietness led Jill to go and check on Amelia. Someone noticed that Amelia was spending time in God's word.

Does anyone notice when I spend time with God's word. I don't expect anyone to check my closets and find me sitting in my underwear with my Bible. (Side note...I don't have my quiet time in my underwear...well I wear underwear, but not just my underwear. HA!)

I believe that when you spend time with the Lord and in His word, the Holy Spirit grabs a hold of you and you start to exhibit the fruits of the spirit. These fruits are love, peace, patience, joy, kindness, goodness, gentleness, self-control, and faithfulness. These are not things you can do own your own. They come from the Holy Spirit. They are things that I notice in other people so I'm sure that people notice them about me when they are present. I notice them in myself when they are present.

When you are spending time with God consistently, your life should look different from the world. As Christians our lives should look different. People should notice that difference.

For me, having a daily quiet time is a challenge. It is something that I fail at regularly. It's hard not to give up after missing even just one day. Sometimes I find myself reading God's word every day, but that's it...I'm just reading. I don't meditate or apply what I've read. That isn't what God wants from us. We aren't asked to read the Bible just so we can check it off a long list of things we need to accomplish in the day.

I really struggle with giving God the first of my time and not what is left over at the end of the day. Even when I have that time left over at the end of the day, it's not my best quality time. I'm tired and I've already gone through a full day with little , sometimes no communication with God.

I know that getting up a little earlier in the morning and giving God my first in my time is a discipline. Not doing it is lazy and God is not a fan of laziness.

Does anyone else struggle in this area? Those of you who are disciplined in this area, do you have any advice? I have people in my life who seem to have this all figured out. I envy those people. I wonder how they do it.

I ~~think~~ know that I need an accountability partner, something that I believe to be biblical. Someone to ask me each day what God revealed to me in my quiet time. Right now I don't have that person. There are people that I trust and would love to have that relationship with, but I feel like it would be a burden to them. Keeping a journal has helped. It's been a way for me to hold myself accountable to what God has revelaed to me and how He works in my life.

This is my goal for the summer. I want to be more disciplined in my quiet time.

Miscellany Monday: Number Style

2011-06-06T18:05:00.015-05:00

I'm sitting working on an assignment for the 2011/2012 school year. A little ahead of myself? Probably. :) I just a new school year...a fresh start. A chance to improve myself as a teacher. Very few things make me giddier (is that a word?).

So anyway... the assignment is a short paragraph where they tell me about themselves in numbers. I figured it's an easy way for me to get to know my students at the beginning of the year. I did a search to see if I could find any similar assignments. I need a little inspiration to ramp it up to a 7th grade level. During my search I came across a blog post that gave me an idea for a blog post of my own.

So here we go.

{ONE} I have ONE God! He is the ONE true God. My desire to serve Him and live whole heartedly for Him has been growing lately. It's an area of my life I would appreciate you prayers in. Being willing to obey no matter what can be a little scary.

{TWO} I love my TWO furbabies. I never thought I could love TWO dogs as much as I do these TWO. They are sweet and cuddly and wild and crazy. Life just wouldn't be the same without them.

{THREE} THREE of us are going to Destin later this month. It's a girl's trip. I can't wait to be on the beach with my girlfriends, laughing and sharing and shopping!

{FOUR} I have been to Zumba FOUR times. I LOVE IT! It truly is fun exercise. I think everyone should try it.

{FIVE} As of Wednesday I will have completed my FIFTH year of teaching. How crazy is that! My first group of students just graduated last month. It doesn't seem possible. I can't even begin to fathom teaching my student's children some day. WILD!!

{SIX} We have lived in our house for SIX years. I remember when we bought this house. The husband said he only wanted to be here for a couple of years. SIX years later... We are ready to move. Hopefully within the next year our house will be on the market and we will be OUT OF HERE!!

{SEVEN} I have been married to the husband for a little more than SEVEN years! I am blessed beyond measure to be his wife. Though we may butt heads from time to time, I love him more than I ever thought I could love someone. He is my best friend!

{EIGHT} I was born in the EIGHTH month of the year. I like having my birthday in August. Good month to be born in.

{NINE} I have spent well over NINE minutes trying to come up with something for the number NINE. And still nothing! Stinkin' number NINE!

{TEN} TEN months from now a coworker and I are taking a group of 7th and 8th graders to Washington D.C. for four days. Are we crazy? Maybe, but they are super excited. I'm really looking forward to it. They are already making plans for room arrangements and plane seats. Don't you love their priorities?

Beautiful

2011-06-01T17:21:00.004-05:00

For the past several weeks, we have been in a series at church called Beautiful. We have talked about how God can take our lives, no matter what our circumstances are, and make something beautiful out of it. All we have to do is be willing to be obedient servants.

Our pastors used the story of Jonah to show how God is capable of using even our disobedience to make something beautiful. God told Jonah to go to Ninevah. Instead of be an obedient servant, Jonah fled from the Lord and went in the complete opposite direction of Ninevah. This disobedience led to a storm in the middle of the ocean and Jonah being swallowed by a large fish. Doesn't sound beautiful?

God used that storm to show the other men on the ship that He was in fact the one true God.

Now that's beautiful!

A couple of weeks ago we had a guest speaker. Christopher Coleman came to share with FBC how God has used his life to make something beautiful. Christopher was pronounced dead at birth. The doctors covered his body and basically sat him to the side while they concentrated on delivering his twin sister. Fifteen minutes later the doctors heard a cry come from the covered baby they had proclaimed dead. Though he went 15 minutes without oxygen, Christopher Coleman was indeed alive. Because of the length of time he went without oxygen, the doctors informed his parents that he would never be more than a vegetable. They told his parents to put him in an institute and forget about him.

His parents chose to take that sweet baby home and love him just the way he was.

I laughed and I cried through Christopher's story. More importantly God spoke to me through his story. There were two things that really stuck out to me though.

1. God told him he had a message that only Christopher could deliver. I think this is true for all of us. God has a message that only I can share with His people.

2. You can't completely serve God and stay in your wheelchair. Chris wasn't talking about a physical wheelchair. He was talking about that thing in your life that holds you back. It could be pride, fear, an addiction, or any number of things. Get out of your wheelchair and serve God with everything you have.

I really enjoyed Christopher message's. I encourage you to check out his message. I think you will be deeply touched. If you have the time click here to listen to Christopher's story. I wanted to post the video here, but couldn't figure out to do it from our church's website. Christopher is a little hard to understand at times, especially in the beginning, but stick with it. It gets easier.

The One With All the Graduations & Birthdays

2011-05-23T18:11:00.025-05:00

This past weekend was a busy one! It was a good one, one for the record books even, but man was it busy. It's a weekend I want to remember so prepare yourself for a long post. :)

Thursday... One of my students turned 13 today. A few weeks ago she asked my coworker and me to rap for her birthday. Of course we had to oblige. So I sat down during lunch and wrote a short rap. I quickly learned that writing raps is not one of my God-given talents. But I came up with something for her. We practiced once and then 7th period rolled around and it was time. Word got around and let's just say my classroom was packed. I had my class, my coworker's class, a few strays, and my principal in there for the show. The birthday girl loved her rap. She laughed the whole time. I don't think she thought we would really do it. So....without any further ado, here is our ~~country~~ rap.

As soon as the last bell rang, I jumped in the car and headed two hours north to see my cousin, Tyler, graduate from high school. On the way there I was driving behind a little Mazda 3. 5 or 6 good size rocks flew out from under her car. Two of them hit my windshield and put huge cracks in it. GRRR!!! I was not a happy camper. I will be getting a new windshield now. Thanks lady! Anyways....made it in time to get a seat at my cousin's graduation. He opened the ceremony with a prayer. Today was also my little brother's birthday. He turned 24. After graduation I treated him to a Mexican birthday dinner. The husband and I gave him a concert ticket for his birthday. He will be going to see 3 Doors Down in July.

Friday ...I spent the night with parents since I took my personal day today. I slept in which was so nice. Another one of my cousins was graduating from high school tonight. Originally I wasn't going to be able to go so I didn't bring the appropriate clothes. My plans changed and I was going to be able to make it so I headed to town to do a little shopping. I found a dress that would suffice and some shoes that I love. They came from Payless. I bought them in black but I want them in every color. While I was out shopping, a downpour occurred. It got eerie dark very quick and just start pouring. Because of the nasty weather my cousin's graduation was moved from the football field at the high school to a local community college. The college is a much smaller venue and because of the change each graduate was only allowed 8 guest. I didn't make the cut. Since I back to not going to the graduation, I decided to head on home. I had plenty to do here at home. On the way home I decided to stop and return the dress I had just bought. I didn't love it enough to keep it. I returned it and bought another dress, a swimsuit, and a nightgown. SCORE!

Saturday ...I woke up fairly early and started cleaning house. We were expecting a little guest so the house had to be straightened. Husband said we were cleaning for the queen. HA!! After an hour of cleaning I took a break to go tan and go to Zumba. Let me just tell you class 2 wasn't any easier than the first one. After an hour of Zumba I headed back home to finish cleaning and to get ready for another graduation. Our nephew, Tyler, graduated from high school as well. This was my first homeschool graduation. Oh my goodness...I was not expecting to cry so much. They played a slide shoe for each graduate and this his or her parents spoke directly to their child while presenting him or her with a diploma. After the ceremony there was a reception for the graduates. In was at the reception that Husband and I were left with this little cutie. Alex was in a wedding today. Jill had to leave early to go to the wedding. Husband and I were blessed to get to love on Miss Amelia. She is such a good little girl. We went to eat with some family after the reception. I'll admit I was a little apprehensive. We have never been responsible for a little one at a restaurant. But I figured there wasn't a better behaved little girl for our first experience and we had our fam there to help. Surely we could survive. And of course, we had our secret weapon....Pryce. :) Amelia LOVES her some Pryce. She was such a sweet little girl. She only got upset once when Pryce and Aunt Joy left the table. HA! After she ate her pizza, we let her drive a car. She really liked this. I asked if she was ready to go bye bye. She said no. From there we headed home. Amelia watched the puppies out the window with her Drew. Let me tell you, she was all about some Drew. :) They sat there and watched the puppies for probably half an hour. When Liam Bailey would run toward the window, she would shake her hands and say no no no and then cling to Drew. It was soooo sweet. Made me cry. When she was finished puppy watching, it was bath time. She quickly figured out that Aunt E doesn't have any bath toys. We did the best we could. Once she was bathed and pj'd, we curled up on the couch to watch Father of the Bride 2. Sweet girl barely made it past the opening credits before she passed out. I truly enjoyed loving on her for the evening. Oh yeah...before she fell asleep Drew went to lay down in the bedroom. Amelia kept asking, "Where Drew go?" so I took her in the bedroom and told her he was sleeping. He pretended to be asleep. After that I would ask her where Drew went and she would say, "Drew night night." And then tell me to Shhh. Seriously. I love this little girl!!

This little girl turned 4 on Saturday! Can't leave her out I'll save Sunday for another post. This one has gotten way to long and out of hand. If you made it this far, THANKS

Happy Birthday!!

2011-05-19T06:46:00.002-05:00

My baby brother turns 24 today!! Seth, thank you for being the best little brother. I'm so proud of the man you have become!! I pray daily for God to bless you with a good wife. I know He has the perfect woman for you. Love you bunches!!

Death by Exercise A.K.A. Zumba

2011-05-18T21:32:00.003-05:00

The gym where the husband and I are members quit having my cardio dance class back in February. :( I have really missed it. I've done the treadmill a couple of times since then, but I just don't enjoy it as much.

They have started having Zumba classes. It is $5 at the door with no commitment. They have Zumba Dance on Wednesday nights and Saturday mornings and Zumba Toning (with weights) on Monday nights.

I decided to go tonight. Lately I've been feeling the need to workout and get into shape. I sent my friend Amanda a text and invited her. To be honest, I didn't think she would join me. I was both shocked and thrilled when I got a text back saying she wanted to join me.

Let me just tell you....that was a workout. I am not a sweater. And I'm not just saying that because I'm a girl and its not lady like. I'm really not. But when we finished tonight, I was soaking wet with sweat. So Gross!!! I came home and immediately weighed myself, certain that I had lost 5 lbs in sweat. Seriously.

It was a lot of fun though. I'm going back next Wednesday night. I don't think I'm ready for doing this with weights yet. I'll build up to that.

Our instructor reminded me of Pauly Shore in Son-in-Law. She was funny. And man can she shake her booty. That's a big part of Zumba - being able to shake your booty. I will be practicing in the bathroom mirrow when the husband isn't around. :) If you know how to shake your booty and walk forward in a salsa like motion, I'm open to pointers.

I'm exhausted. My right foot hurts. That bunionectomy is still a little sensitive. But I had a blast. The hour went by fast and I'm glad. I was plumb wore out by the end. I lost what little coordination I had to begin with.

Just Life

2011-05-14T10:07:00.004-05:00

It's been almost two weeks since I've posted. The reason? Just Life.

Since my last post....

**We've celebrated Mother's Day spending time with both of our Mommas. The husband and I are truly blessed to have these two wonderful women in our lives.

**I received a note on my desk from a student this past week. It had two words on it followed by my name. It wasn't a very nice note. To be honest, it broke my heart. Even though I know they are just kids, it really bothered me. I don't know what I did to make anyone say those words to me.

**I've been struggling with my body image lately. I feel like I look awful in everything I try to wear. Yesterday before I walked out of the house for work, the husband told me I looked hot. :) He has been so sweet lately.

In fact he has been the best husband ever lately. He's just been doing little things here and there that have made me feel so incredibly loved.

**My 10 year class reunion is coming up. It's driving me crazy. I don't feel adequate enough in so many ways to be going, but at the same time I'm not ready to say I'm not going. I'm so completely wish washy on the whole situation. I'll say I want to go and then change my mind and say I'm not going all in the same breath. I feel like the whole event will be fake conversations that I don't want to deal with, but I also think I will feel left out if I don't go.

Yes I know that I sound very juvenile right now. One more thing I'm not pleased about right now.

Wow! I really didn't mean for this post to turn into me whining. Sorry.

Oh the plus side. I only have 14 days (I think) of school left!!! Whooo Hooo!!!!

Tuesday Tunes: God is Enough

2011-05-03T16:40:00.005-05:00

There is so much going through my mind today. I've started several post and then deleted them. I'm struggling with getting my thoughts into words. I want to write about a few topics, but I'm not sure how yet. God hasn't given me the words. Maybe I'm not even supposed to share.

I just don't know.

One thing I will tell you is that God has been speaking John 3:30 to me consistently for the past couple of weeks.

" He must increase, but I must decrease."

Lately I've been depending on my own strength and ability. I have convinced myself I'm capable of doing life without Him.

I've been feeling a desire to get closer to Him for awhile now. A couple of months ago he gave me a verse from James.

"Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you" James 4:8

I've been praying this verse ever since, but it was like I couldn't figure out how to draw near to Him.

Now I know. I have to decrease. I have to lower myself on the list of priorities and move Him back to the top. It's where He belongs. It's what he deserves.

I don't belong there.

I heard a song on the Dove Awards that sparked this journey. It's by an artist known as Lecrae. It's not normally the kind of music I listen to, but I was immediately drawn to this song. Natalie Grant joins him in this song singing that God is enough, more than enough.

He is all I need. He is all that matters.

I will be the background and let him lead.

So here's something a little different this week - Lecrae and Natalie Grant singing Background and God is Enough. I hope you enjoy it.

First on the First

2011-05-01T14:37:00.006-05:00

The last few months Amy has posted some of her family's firsts on the first day of the month. I thought this was a cute idea and have been meaning to do it, but the first always sneaks up on me. I'm finally going to do my own first on the first today.

**Liam Bailey's first baseball game. He LOVED it!!!

**My first (and hopefully last) surgery

**Our first Razorback Baseball game

**The first time I met my brown dog.

**The first picture I saw of the boy.

**Our first moment as husband and wife

A BRAND NEW CAR

2011-04-25T20:42:00.006-05:00

Okay if you didn't read that title in your best Bob Barker voice, you need to go back and read it again!

Andrew and I spent the weekend car shopping. He found a Cadillac that he liked so he went and bought it this morning. It is so big and comfy.
He seems to really like it. I'm loving it. It has dual air control. I can make my side of the car as warm as I want it. :) Yes that says 84. We wanted to know how high it would go, but I would be lying if I said I didn't leave it that way. It was warm and toasty.

We gave the Camry to our nephew Cody who just turned 16. I think he is excited that he can now drive himself to the gym.

In other news...we had storms yet again tonight. I'm not a fan of Spring storms. At least Andrew was with me this week. Things got pretty bad last week while he was away.

We went to dinner at a new restaurant called Chicken Express.

I've eaten at one in Arkadelphia several times. It is sooooo gooood!!!!! I LOVE IT. They put a memory verse on your receipt. If you can tell them last weeks' verse you get 10% of your meal. This is my Chic-Fil-A. I know that some of you may stop reading this blog when you read what I'm about to say, but I don't like chic-fil-a. Don't get me wrong, I love that they are a Christian restaurant and their milk shakes are to die for, but I'm not a fan of their chicken. I'm sorry.

But Chicken Express...I LOVE!

Anyways we went to dinner and on the way home I begged Andrew to stop at Wal-Mart so that I could buy some lunch meat for the week. I'm tired of eating out all the time. We were checking out when they came over the intercom and said something about a Code Black. They told us to leave or go to the back of the store. We went to the back of the store.

We were stuck back there for about an hour and a half. Very interesting times! There was a lady who was pregnant. I told Andrew this situation could be movie worthy if she went into labor.

We are home safe and sound now. But these storms aren't over. It's supposed to be like this tomorrow and Wednesday too. YUCK!

Playing Catch Up

2011-04-24T20:46:00.004-05:00

I have been without Internet for the past few days and haven't been able to blog. It seems like I have so much I've wanted to blog about lately too. I'll give it to you in snippets.

**The husband was out of town for two weeks. They were a long two weeks!!! He came home Friday.

**We went to dinner tonight. We noticed the dome light in his car was on. Someone broke in and stole his XM radio tuner. They didn't take anything else. We have no idea when it happened. We're thinking they jimmied the door and the alarm went off and that's all they could grab. His glove box was open, which is where he keeps his ipod, but it was still there. We called the cops. He's waiting on them now. We will be moving soon.

**We had a wonderful Easter service this morning. The place was absolutely packed to the gills. There wasn't an empty seat in that church. It was so awesome to hear that many voices being lifted up in praise to our God.

**We've spent the weekend car shopping. I think it's time to upgrade for the husband. His Camry is a good car. She's treated us well, but he isn't comfortable taking it on long trips. He might even be buying a new car in the morning.

**We've got a big week this week. Thursday night we are taking Liam Bailey to a baseball game. Friday night we are going to see James Taylor (happy dance) and then Sunday I have a baby shower to go to.

**Oh and we also had some pretty severe storms here this last week. They seem to always happen when I'm home alone. Tornado warnings all around. We were without Internet and the weather had made us lose TV so we were pretty clueless. Liberty, Liam, and I hung out in the laundry room for an hour or so. I downloaded a local radio app on my phone so I would know what's going on. Jill was also keeping me informed and telling me when to take cover.

Tuesday Tunes: Like a Lion

2011-04-19T07:00:00.002-05:00

We sang this song at church on Sunday. I really like it. There are several artist who sings this song including the David Crowder Band. I think this one by Kristian Stanfill is my favorite.

The Best Birthday Party Ever Part 3

2011-04-17T16:23:00.012-05:00

The birthday boy arrived not once, but twice since we missed the picture the first time. I'm pretty sure he was surprised. he was expecting a surprise party, but not until much later and at home. He made the rounds and thanked all his guest for coming.

It was then time for cake and singing.

(Making sure the photographer didn't miss this moment. HA!)

Next came my absolute favorite party of the day. I invited all of his friends even those who live out of state. I didn't expect any of them to drive or fly here for this party. However, one couple emailed me back immediately and said they were coming. The husband's roommate, Andrew and his wife Heather said they would be here along with their little girl. This was back in January. I gave my out of towners a bit of a heads up in hopes that they might make it. I was still in shock the night before the party that the Eckharts were coming. They were a much harder surprise to keep than the party. There were so many times when I wanted to tell him they were coming.

They were running a little late and arrived after we finished singing Happy Birthday. It was perfect. They truly were a second surprise. Andrew had his back to the door when they walked in. I told him to turn around and when he did I'm fairly certain his jaw hit the floor. He was shocked to say the least. He couldn't believe they were here. His face was absolutely priceless. It was then time for presents. We ended the party with some basketball. I rented a court for the last two hours of the party. They played the entire two hours. Andrew had a blast. This is definitely one of his favorite past times.

A shot of the whole gang... This was the first party I have ever planned. I enjoyed it. I had fun scouring the Internet for ideas and putting everything together. There were times though that were a bit stressful, when I didn't know how I was going to pull it off. The following facebook status made every second of time and every dollar spent more than worth it... "Thank you for the Birthday Wishes. My wife threw me the best birthday party ever. I love playing ball with my family and friends. 3 or 4 generations of family running up and down the court together. Can't believe Andrew and Heather drove from Joplin to be here. Your presence was an amazing gift. Gotta love friends like that. Today I realized that I live a very blessed life. I love you all."

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner

2011-04-15T18:47:00.003-05:00

I'm hanging out with Miss Amelia tonight! She wanted to pick a winner for the blog design giveaway. She was such a polite lady saying please. How could I resist? We wrote down the names of everyone who entered. We put them in a bowl.

Then she drew our winner.

I tried to get her to say the name of the winner on camera, but she wasn't in the mood.

Our winner is Linda! Congratulations. I'll give Miranda your email address so that the two of you can start working on a design.

The Best Birthday Party Ever Part 2

2011-04-13T18:35:00.015-05:00

When I arrived at the gym, I immediately began to haul everything upstairs. After a couple of trips, my parents, brother, grandma, and cousins arrived. I put them straight to work. They were a HUGE help. A little shout out to them. I couldn't have done it without their help. They are seriously the best. For my first party, I was pleased with the decor. To be quite honest I was a little proud of myself over this little party. Some of the decor... I made the confetti that you see on the table in the picture above. I bought punches shaped like a balloon and a birthday cake. I spent a couple of nights watching TV and punching out hundreds of balloons and cakes in cardstock. I painted a canvas and attached wooden numbers to display his birth year. Along the table I had some framed photos of the husband throughout the years. I could have put pictures EVERYWHERE! I had such a hard time only choosing a few. Now I have to tell you that the cake was more for me than for the birthday boy. He isn't really a cake eater, but I don't think its a birthday party without the cake. He much prefers his sister's lemon bars. Even though she had a BUSY weekend, Joy agreed to make him a pan of lemon bars. I created a cute (in my humble opinion) stand for them. I needed something to add height and this is what I came up with. I bought a vase at Wal-Mart. The basketballs are those squish balls that you play with in the water. I found them at Dollar Tree back in January. At the time, I had no idea how I was going to incorporate them. They worked perfectly for this and they ended up being a party favor for all the kiddos. I bought a basketball net and attached it to a charger plate with Velcro to sit on top. I also placed some of the his favorites on the table for our guest to enjoy. These are SKOR bars. I made the wrappers with card stock and Word. EASY!

We also had potato chips and peanut M&M's. I sat and picked all the orange, green, and blue M&M's out of 3 or 4 big bags. I have a stash of yellow, red, and brown M&M's still. :)

I also made this banner with my Inspiration (like a cricut). I wasn't allowed to attach anything to the wall in the party room, but I wanted the banner to hang above the table. My daddy made the two orange poles from PVC pipe. They were absolutely perfect!! He loves the 10 cent candy sticks from Cracker Barrel so we of course had those.As soon as the dcorations were almost finished, the guest started arriving. Family and friends!

Finally the birthday boy arrived!!! Unfortunately I missed his initial reaction. I had my back to the door. But from what I saw he was surprised. The funniest thing is that when he walked in we all threw our hands in the air and yelled surprise...including the photographer. Jill was in the moment and completely forgot to get a picture of him walking in. Too funny!! We sent him out to do it again. Stay tuned for the third and final part of The Best Birthday Ever.

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2011-04-13T17:48:00.012-05:00

I have several friends who link up and participate in WILW. I decided it was high time I play along. So here we go.

1. Last night I had dinner with a couple of friends. We took a nice little stroll down memory lane. I really enjoyed the time with them. The food was great and the company was even better. The trip down memory lane reminded me that God loves us exactly where we are, but He also loves us enough not to leave us that way. I'm loving that truth!!

2. The husband...I fall more in love with this man every day. Growing old with him is fun!

3. I have bought 4 new things for summer. I'm loving them. I've worn the blue dress from Target, but am still just looking forward to wearing the others. I'm trying to decide if I should do a necklace with the black outfit. Whatcha think? These two are from Target... And these two are from Old Navy

4. Dark Kisses Several months ago I bought lotions and body wash from Bath and Body Works. I love it! I've never really had a scent before, but I'm thinking this one is a keeper.

The Best Birthday Party Ever Part 1

2011-04-12T17:58:00.008-05:00

The morning of the husband's birthday I woke up bright and early at six o'clock with great anxiety and nervousness. I still wasn't sure how I was going to get him to his surprise party. My plan the night before hadn't gone as smoothly as I had hoped. But I knew there was nothing I could do about it and I had plenty to do so I quietly rolled out of bed and got dressed. I did not want to wake the birthday boy. I ran to Wal-Mart to buy the adhesive I needed to finish centerpieces and then bought ice for the drinks. After those things were taken care of I flew home to finish all the last minute details. First on the list were the centerpieces. Thankfully they came together easily. I made boxes that displayed pictures of the husband throughout the years. I was really pleased with how they turned out. They were fun to put together.

(Checking out a pic from their high school days)

Next on the to do list was getting everything loaded in my car before the husband woke up. I was so afraid of forgetting something. This was the first party that I've done so I just kept thinking of things like serving tools for cake, something to light candles with, and all the little things I had for decor. By the time the car was loaded it was around 9 and the husband was awake. I was an absolute nervous wreck. I thought it was the perfect time for a shower. I knew I couldn't just lay in bed and mindlessly watch TV with him. During this time I text our nephew, Tyler. See the plan was for Tyler to invite Andrew to play basketball. That's how we were going to get him to the party. But when Tyler asked multiple times the night before, he couldn't get Andrew to commit. Plan B was for Tyler call and invite him again that morning, but this time add that Andrew's brother, Cary, was going to be there. When Andrew's phone rang, he looked at it, saw that it was Tyler, and completely ignored it. Grr!! He was determined to spend the day being lazy. And I was going crazy!!!!

I looked at him and told him he was being a stubborn man. When he asked what I meant, I told him that the boys were trying to get him out of the house for me. I told him I was making him dinner that night and I needed him out of the house so I could set up because it was a special dinner. I told him to get out and go play ball with the boys.

I pretended to be upset. He just laughed.

With that taken care of, I left to get my pedicure, pick up cake and balloons, and decorate.

Everything went smoothly until I arrived at the bakery to pick up the cake. They closed the box all the way and the top of the basketball stuck to the top of the box. When they opened the top of the basketball came off. She told me it wouldn't take long to fix, but I was completely panicked. The balloons were all together in one cluster instead of five different cluster. The woman working on the balloons was a complete ditz. I'm sure I was only in there a few minutes, but it felt like an eternity. I just kept checking the clock. I was scared I wouldn't get it all done.

But alas, they fixed the cake and separated the balloons. I was back in the car and headed to the gym.

I'll pick up the story tomorrow with the decor and guest. For now this post is long enough and I'm tired.

Until then be sure to enter my blog makeover giveaway in the post below this one. I want to show Miranda the love. If you aren't in the market for a blog over share the word with someone who might be.

Party Planning and a Giveaway

2011-04-07T16:57:00.005-05:00

Hey ya'll! I had really intended to blog about Andrew's birthday party by this time, but it just hasn't happened. It's been a busy crazy week. Andrew's sister, Joy, has been in the hospital since Monday. I don't feel like it is my place to share all the details with you, but if you could be praying for her and for wisdom for the doctors, we would greatly appreciate it. It seems she is finally getting some answers and that is an answer to prayer.

Because of that and some other things, I just haven't posted this week. I haven't had time and I don't have the pictures yet. Jill was my photographer. As soon as she gets the pictures to me, I will share with you. She's been busy tending to Joy this week

But there is something from the party that I'm ready to share with you. I started the planning process back in January. Some people laughed at the fact that I started planning two and a half months before his birthday. This was the first party I've ever thrown and I knew I needed all that time.

The party was going to be a basketball party, but I didn't want to go overboard with that as a theme. After all it was for an adult. I decided to use colors as my theme instead. I chose orange, blue, and green.

I spent hours on etsy looking for the perfect invitation, but didn't find anything that was right. I found several things I liked, but none of them were exactly what I was looking for.

I decided to email Miranda. She has done my last few blog designs and I love her work. I didn't know if she did invitations, but I had to ask.

In true Miranda fashion, she emailed me back almost immediately and said she didn't have much experience, but she'd give it a try. We emailed back and forth and before the end of the night she had several digital papers for me to choose from. It wasn't long after that, she had created my invitation.

Simple. Perfect.

I absolutely love working with Miranda. She is super easy to work with and always does a fantastic job. And F-A-S-T!! She makes sure you get exactly what you want. As far as I'm concerned she will be doing all my future blog designs.

I want to show her some love as a thank you for the invitations. I'm giving one of you lucky readers the chance to win a blog makeover by Miranda. Your blog will be all ready for spring/summer with her "The Anchor's Aweigh" package. Go check out her gallery here. She seriously does an amazing job!
To enter to win this awesome giveaway all you have to do is:

1. Become a follower of my blog for one entry.
2. Become a follower of Little Sailor Design for a 2nd entry.
3. Leave a comment sharing a party planning tip for a 3rd entry.
4. Blog about a party you've planned then come back and leave a comment with a link to your blog for 4 entries.

That's a total of up to 7 entries folks!!! Let's show Miranda some love.

Please leave a separate comment for each entry. I will draw for a winner on Friday, April 15.

Surprise

2011-04-02T23:08:00.002-05:00

I can finally share a big secret I've been keeping. Today has been a busy day. I surprised the husband with a birthday party for his 30th. He was truly surprised and he (and everyone else) had a great time! We are an exhausted couple tonight. I promise to tell you all about it in a later post. One I'll write when I'm not so tired. For now I just wanted to let you in on the secret. I enjoyed every minute of planning this for him. His happiness today made it all more than worth it.

Husband, you are my very best friend. I love you more than words could ever express. Thank you for working hard to taking care of me, for loving me unconditionally, for sharing in my laughter and tears, and for being my leader. I'm so glad you had a great birthday!!!! Happy 30th!

Tuesday Tunes: Show Me Your Glory

2011-03-29T06:13:00.002-05:00

I missed last week. Spring Break got my days all messed up and Tuesday came and went before I even knew it.

But I'm back.

Today's song is new to me. We sang it Sunday morning at church. I'm loving it!!

Tips to Go

2011-03-27T21:16:00.003-05:00

The husband and I eat out a lot. Or rather I eat out a lot. I hate cooking. I'd much rather just go pick something up.

We do a lot of car side to go. I especially do this on nights when he is out of town.

Sometimes I tip and sometimes I don't. it doesn't seem to make a difference for me if it is a place that brings it out to the car or a place where I go in.

I don't know what makes me tip or not tip. It's not the service. It's as simple as sometimes I do and sometimes I don't.

I'm curious. Do you tip when you order a meal to go? Does it matter if you go in or they bring it out to the car?

What's proper etiquette here?

Spring Break 2011

2011-03-24T21:10:00.006-05:00

I have enjoyed this week immensely. Makes me want to be a stay at home wife. We've had some big changes our house this week that I want to record so I will have them.

Monday - Andrew took the day off to spend with me. Isn't he so sweet? We spent the day shopping for bedding and dishes. He treated me to lunch at the Target Snackbar. HA! It was actually pretty tasty. And cheap too!

We made the decision to kick the dogs out of our bed. They sleep with us every night. Liberty started off in a crate in our laundry room but was in our bed by the end of the first year. Liam Bailey has slept in our bed from day one. The little guy has never known any other way. He has spent 99% of his life in our bed. Seriously!! I just got to the point where I wanted a clean bed more than I wanted to cuddle with our dogs. Don't get me wrong. I cried like a baby over this decision, but I know it was the right one. We took our old comforter (we found a new one while shopping) and made them a pallet in the floor. We brought Liberty in and worked with her for about 15 minutes. She is such a smart girl. She caught on quickly. Liam Bailey, not so smart, bless his heart. However, he doesn't like to get in trouble. He is a sensitive little guy. He learned that getting on the bed got him in trouble. He also follows Liberty around everywhere.

They actually did very well. We all survived our first night apart.

Tuesday - Lots of cleaning and working on some craft projects. We attended our first Razorback baseball game. Loads of fun! The weather was absolutely perfect for the occasion.

Wednesday - I spent the day running errands and shopping. Cleaned a little in the kitchen.

Thursday - I worked on school stuff today. I got all my papers graded and lesson plans drafted for the next two weeks.

Tomorrow I going to spend the day cleaning. Then we are headed up to see my parents. Looking forward to spending time with them. I haven't seen them since January. That is way too long!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-23T13:37:00.002-05:00

Househunting & The Furbabies

2011-03-20T21:02:00.002-05:00

What an absolutely beautiful weekend!! The weather has been perfect all weekend. We have truly enjoyed it.

We spent the weekend house hunting again. I have to say house hunting is mentally exhausting!! We have found a house that we are in LOVE with. The chances of us getting into this home are higher than the last home I mentioned, but there is still so much that has to happen. Just wears this girl out!!

I'm just trying to give it to God and not worry or stress about it. Things will work out the way they are supposed to.

On a different note, Liberty & Liam went to the vet Friday. The vet wasn't sure exactly what was going on with Liberty's nose, but he didn't think it was anything to worry about. He told us to keep an eye on it and if it changes color or gets bigger we should take her back in.

They are two healthy dogs. That makes me a happy Momma. :) Miss Liberty Belle weighs 21.9 pounds. She's been at that weight for quite a while now. Liam Bailey weighs 21.1 pounds. He is a rotund little boy!!!

That pretty much sums up our weekend. Nothing too exciting, but we have enjoyed it.

Tuesday Tunes

2011-03-15T12:04:00.001-05:00

I've thought a lot this past week about which song I would share with you today. I have a mental list of songs that I eventually want to share with you. However, this week's song didn't come from that list. I feel like it's a song that God wants me to share with you. It's called Follow You by Leeland.

Andrew and I had the chance to meet and see Leeland in concert last year. These guys have such a passion for God and for His people. They have a heart for those less fortunate than you and me. They have a heart for those who have true physical needs as well as spiritual needs. They desire to be a light in this dark world.

To me, that is what this song is about: going where God calls you to go, following him anywhere no matter how dark that place might seem. We are called to be the light in this world. God and I have had a lot of conversations about light the past few days. I have several thoughts on the topic that I hope to share with you soon. Maybe that's why God brought this song to mind for this week. It's for me just as much as it is for you.

I pray that God uses this song to bless you as much as it has blessed me.

Miscellany Monday

2011-03-14T19:40:00.005-05:00

1. Today is my last Monday before Spring Break. That sentence makes me do a happy dance. I am more than ready. We don't have any plans for Spring Break. I'm just ready to sleep in and relax. Actually, I probably won't do much of that either. I have a project that I've been working on that I will be tackling next week. I need to get it finished. It's one of those secrets that I'm dying to share with you. And I will when the time is right.

2. The husband and I spent the weekend driving around looking at houses. We've always thought we would buy land and build. But as things are changing, it makes more sense to buy an existing home. We actually found a house that we both love yesterday. As soon as we walked in I began picturing us there in the future and being a family in that house. It is an older house and has it's imperfections, yet it seems perfect for us. We are talking about it, doing our research, and praying about it. I'm trying not to get too excited too quick. A lot has to work out for us to buy this house. I'm trusting that if it is where God wants us to be, he'll take care of everything.

3. The husband is out of town. Thankfully its a short trip. He will be back tomorrow evening. I just prefer him to be home with me. I'm praising God that all his traveling is far less now that it has been this past year.

4. This weekend we found a growth/bump on Liberty's nose. It doesn't seem to bother her when we touch it, but it definitely got our curiosity up. Andrew had me google it Saturday night. Bad idea!! They always put worse case scenario on the Internet. The first thing that popped up was cancer!!! Not what I needed to read. Of course there were a million other possibilities such as excessive licking, allergies, bee sting, dog acne, etc. Yes, dog acne! Who knew? But of course my mind focus on cancer. I'm sure it's nothing. Andrew is supposed to call and get her and Liam an appointment at the vet this week. It's time for their yearly check up. Hopefully they will be able to tell us something about her nose growth.

Blogging With Secrets

2011-03-09T20:14:00.003-06:00

It feels like it has been awhile since I've posted about something other than Tuesday Tunes. Which by the way, I'm loving that series. It's fun to share about the different music that God is using in my life right now.

There are several things going on in my life right now that I want to blog about. But they are kind of secrets right now. Either things that I don't want to share or things that are still in the works so I'm waiting to share. In time, they will all be shared.

But for now I'm finding it hard to blog when I feel like I can't share everything with you.

A few things I can share....

*Andrew and I have been visiting a church consistently for awhile now. This past Sunday we went to a class after the service where we learned the history of the church and how it all works. It's a big church so this class was telling us what all was offered. There's another class you can take to learn the church's beliefs and the next step to join. Andrew is in the process of maybe having lunch with one of the pastor's. It's something we're praying and discussing. Something we still have lots of praying and discussing about it to do.

*I'm so ready for June. I feel like I'm in survival mode as far as the school year goes. My zest for teaching is gone. I want to enjoy and love it, but I'm finding it really hard this year.

*Sadly enough, I really can't thing of anything to share with you. We've been a pretty boring couple. Take tonight for example, it's 8:30 and the husband is fast as sleep. I'm joining him as soon as I hit publish. :)

Tuesday Tunes: Winter Jam 2011

2011-03-07T16:51:00.013-06:00

Thought I would do something a little different today for Tuesday Tunes. Instead of picking just one song to share with you, I want to share with you about a concert the husband and I went to Saturday night.

Our oldest nephew, Tyler, tagged along with us. He and Andrew are concert buddies!! Very rarely does one go to a concert without the other one.

Winter Jam is a great concert of several different Christian artist joined by speaker Tony Nolan. It is general admission for $10 every year. Loads of fun!!

This was my 2nd Winter Jam. I have been looking forward to it for awhile, ever since I learned that Francesca Battistelli was going to be there.

The night opened with Joseph Castro. I'm sure those of you watch American Idol know who he is. I only know one song by him. Being the first act, he only played three or four songs.

He was followed by Chris August. I recently bought his cd and I'm enjoying it. You can still get one of his songs, Starry Night, free at KLOVE. Check it out here if you haven't already.

These guys were followed by Newsong and then a band called Red. I wasn't that crazy about either one of these artist. Red was LOUD!!! Just not my kind of music. The guys loved them though.

Next up was my main reason for wanting to go to Winter Jam.

Francesca Batistelli!! She was so stinkin' cute. I loved her outfit. There are very few people who can pull off that kind of look.

David Crowder Band was also one of the performers. We had never seen them before. They did a couple of their popular songs. Half way through their act, he mentioned that he was from Texas.

Wrong thing to say in Arkansas. We might have possibly booed DCB. Their little story continued and then they asked us to call the hogs. Of course, we obliged.

Not the best picture, but that's a whole lot of people calling those Hogs.

Back to the music....I was so excited that DCB played my favorite song that they do. It isn't one you would expect. I LOVE their version of I Saw The Light. They played it and I'll Fly Away. I was thrilled.

I found this video from Winter Jam in NC this year.

The night ended with Kutless and Newsboys.

I have to admit I was a little disappointed in Kutless. I really like their music. I just expected more from their show.

Newsboys, however, was awesome. It was a great ending to the night. At one point they were all raised into the air on different platforms. The drummer was on a round platform that raised into the air and then began to til. It tilted until it was completely vertical. As if that wasn't enough, it started spinning.

It was amazing night. I'm so glad that we went.

Preparations for Summer

2011-03-01T18:58:00.004-06:00

I've been looking at swimsuits lately. I don't really need a new one, but I want a new one. Amy introduced me to this great website, Lime Ricki, that has some really cute and modest swimsuits.

I have never in my life bought anything online. I try everything on, especially swimsuits.

I've also never been comfortable in a swimsuit. I'm a very modest person and like to be covered up.

These swimsuits are cute and modest enough that I'm going to give online shopping a try.

Problem is I can't decide which one I want. They are so stinkin' cute. I'm hoping you can help me. I asked Andrew, but he didn't really like any of them.

In no particular order....

Option #1: Nicki Tankini

Option #2: Jennie Tankini

Option #3: Coco Tankini

Option #4: Bailey Tankini

Tuesday Tunes: This Is The Stuff

2011-03-01T18:30:00.002-06:00

Today's song is one that I honestly wasn't crazy about at first. This is the Stuff by Francesca Battistelli. You all know I love me some Francesca. I posted before about how much I loved her first album. It is one where every single song is a hit...at least to me.

So I was a bit surprised when I didn't like her new song right away. However, the more I listened to it, the more it grew on me. It's catchy and gets stuck in my head. It is a great reminder not to let the little day to day things get to you. We are so richly blessed.

It is on her new album, Hundred More Years, which just released today. I bought this morning and listened to on my way to work. It wasn't an instant hit to me, but there are some really good songs. It just isn't as "fun" as her first album. It's a little more serious.

Here is the link to this week's free download from KLOVE. I already have this song and love it!

http://www.klove.com/music/store.aspx

Ten Years

2011-02-27T17:50:00.003-06:00

It's official. The plans for my 10 year reunion are in the works. How in the world has it been 10 years already? While it doesn't feel like it was yesterday, it doesn't feel like 10years ago either.

I have mixed feelings about the reunion. With facebook being what it is a reunion almost seems pointless. We've all stayed connected or reconnected through FB. Part of me is really looking forward to actually seeing everyone in person and catching up with those few who don't have FB.

But part of me suffers from that vain feeling that they make movies about. Scenes from Romy & Michelle's High School Reunion are running through my head. I don't feel like I have anything to prove to anyone. I just know I'm a different person now than I was then. I would assume that we all are.

The reunion is scheduled for May so I have plenty of time to decide if I want to go or not. Did you go to your reunion? Good or bad experience?

I've Got The Fever!

2011-02-23T18:47:00.003-06:00

It's not the time first time I've caught the fever. I'm sure it won't be the last time I catch it either. But I've definitely got it right now...

A bad case of baby fever. All it took was a very brief conversation about nursery decor. And I do mean brief.

Andrew and I went into a furniture store Saturday. He wanted to show me a painting he saw in there awhile back. While strolling through, I saw a chair that was the exact fabric/style that I have in mind for a nursery.

No, we aren't expecting, but I'm always looking at nursery ideas. See, I don't want to find out the sex of the baby ahead of time. But at the same time I want a cute stylish nursery. So I'm always looking. This used to give me the fever, but I've gotten past that. Or maybe I just don't look as often anymore.

Anyways, I saw this chair that was perfect. I asked Andrew what he thought of the color combination. When he agreed that he liked it, I told him why I was wondering. He felt like it was a gender neutral combo.

I was ecstatic that he liked what I liked. And that's all it took. Now I'm dreaming of babies and nurseries and all the fun stuff.

But at the same time, I'm completely okay about not having a baby right now. I have submitted this area to my husband and to my Heavenly Father. I'm trusting them completely. God has shown me on more than one occasion over the past several months that this was not the season of life in which we should have children. I know that His timing is perfect and that His ways are higher than mine. For that I'm thankful.

But I can't help but to search for nursery ideas. At least by the time we do have a baby I might have some idea of what I want. Right?

Tuesday Tunes: Christ is Risen

2011-02-22T07:00:00.005-06:00

I've had a post stirring in my head for a couple of weeks now about the music that I've been listening to while I clean, scrapbook, or whatever. However, I've decided that instead of rolling it all into one I will give you one song at a time and really tell you why I'm loving it right now.

Today's tune is Christ is Risen by Matt Mahar.

I'm starting with this song because right now at klove.com you can download it for free. They give you a free iTunes download every couple of weeks. I've gotten some good songs from there.

This song has a powerful message. It is the message that Christ is Risen. He is not dead!!

It's one of those songs that will have you looking crazy while you drive. At least it does me. I will be pumping my fist, raising my arms, and singing at the top of my lungs when I listen to this song.

It is a great song to lead up to the Easter season that is quickly approaching us.

Let no one caught in sin remain
Inside the lie of inward shame
But fix our eyes upon the cross
And run to Him who showed great love
And bled for us
Freely You've bled for us

Christ is risen from the dead
Trampling over death by death
Come awake, come awake
Come and rise up from the grave
Christ is risen from the dead
We are one with Him again
Come awake, come awake
Come and rise up from the grave

Beneath the weight of all our sin
You bowed to none but heaven's will
No scheme of hell, no scoffer's crown
No burden great can hold You down
In strength You reign
Forever let Your church proclaim

O death, where is your sting?
O hell, where is your victory?
O church, come stand in the light
The glory of God has defeated the night

O death, where is your sting?
O hell, where is your victory?
O church, come stand in the light
Our God is not dead
He's alive! He's alive!

(Emphasis is my own...it's my favorite part)

Miscellany Monday

2011-02-21T16:41:00.001-06:00

1. Last Monday, Valentine's Day, I received a beautiful bouquet of roses at school. I cried. My students informed it was okay that I cried. :) They really can be sweet. The husband hardly ever sends me flowers so when he does it is a true surprise and extra special. I like it that way.

2. The husband was out of town all last week. I barely noticed because I was so busy. 7:00 was the earliest I got home from work last week. Needless to say it was a long week, not a bad one, just a long one.

3. I can deal with that long week though because I've had a four day weekend. With parent teacher conferences Thursday night, we were out Friday. Today we were out for President's Day. Sounds glorious I know. It won't in June when I'm still in school.

4. The husband and I have tickets to see James Taylor in concert next month. I'm stoked! We love James Taylor. How Sweet It Is is our song and was played at our wedding.

5. We had a FABULOUS weekend. The husband took me to the mall Saturday where I stocked up on stuff from Bath and Body Works. I also got three new pairs of pants for $30 at New York and Company. That store has seriously become my favorite place to shop. I love that I can buy pants there that are the right length for me, no hemming needed. You have no idea how hard that is!!

Sunday we had an awesome church service at Fellowship Bible Church. We've been attending there pretty regularly. The sermon was on the Brazan Altar. At the end of the service we were asked to pray and confess our sins. They asked to write them on a red piece of paper and then we left them at the altar. It was such a cleansing and uplifting service. I left feeling like a new person. We came home and took a Sunday nap and then went and bought groceries. Sunday night the husband grilled burgers on the new gas/charcoal combo grill he bought Saturday. They were yummy!!

6. Said grilling has put me in the mood for camping. We are thinking about going next month during Spring Break.

7. The beautiful weather we've been having has me in the mood for vacation in general. I've been dreaming of cruises and other great vacation destinations. I'm going on a vacation this summer since I was pretty much on house arrest this past summer with my surgery.

Kindleworm

2011-02-15T16:56:00.002-06:00

So...my sweet husband surprised me with a Kindle for Valentine's Day. He actually gave it to me on Saturday. Of course he gives it to me and then tells me not to go buy a bunch of books.

UH WHAT???

He knows I can go a little overboard when it comes to books. I've always been a bit of a bookworm. These days my favorite author is Karen Kingsbury. I read her books as fast as she can write them. I highly recommend them. I also like Colleen Coble, Terri Blackstock, and several other Christian authors. I'm adding Rebecca Seitz to that list after reading Prints Charming.

When the ereaders first started coming out, the husband immediately thought I should have one. At that point I had no desire for one. There is just something about holding an actual book that is part of the joy of reading.

It's like this with all electronics. He thinks I need it, I don't. He convinces me to "let" him buy it for me, I don't know how I ever lived without it. Technology is definitely his love language. :)

We went to Alabama in December and I forgot my book at home. I'm not the kind of girl who could just go buy another book and start it. I'm a firm believer in reading one book at a time. I also don't read any books that are part of a series until all books in that series have been released. I'm weird like that. I just can't stand to be left hanging. I've been known to let books sit in my closet for two years or more just waiting on the rest of the series to be written and released.

So anyways there I was in Alabama stuck without my book. The husband so kindly points out that if I had a kindle I would have all my books with me.

That's all it took. I wanted one. My niece got one for Christmas and after playing around with hers, I wanted one even more.

I spent two days trying to decide what book I should buy first. There were so many I wanted. It was a hard decision but I bought America by Heart by Sarah Palin. It is my first ebook. I'm loving it. I'm officially a kindleworm.

It makes me wonder if I'll ever read the stack of books that are in my closet. I wonder if it is okay to still buy a real book. Will that offend the husband? I LOVE my kindle. But like I said, there is just something special about a real book. Kindles don't have that smell of new pages. I think there are certain books that I will still want the real deal.

What are you reading right now? Any authors you would recommend?

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T07:28:00.000-06:00

To my Valentine in honor of our upcoming concert date.

How sweet it is to be loved by you
How sweet it is to be loved by you

I needed the shelter of someone's arms, and there you were
I needed someone to understand my ups and downs, and there you were

With sweet love and devotion
Deeply touching my emotion

I want to stop and thank you baby
I want to stop and thank you baby

How sweet it is to be loved by you
How sweet it is to be loved by you

I close my eyes at night
Wondering where would I be without you in my life

Everything I did was just a bore
Everywhere I went it seems I'd been there before

But you brighten up for me all of my days
With a love so sweet in so many ways

I want to stop and thank you baby
I just want to stop and thank you baby

Husband, I love you!! You're the best valentine a girl could ask for!