Learning to Abide in Him

At any given moment...

2011-08-08T13:03:00.000-05:00

13 years

2011-07-25T06:39:00.005-05:00

It is hard to believe that it has been 13 years since we were married. I'm not sure why our parents allowed toddlers to marry! LOL! Ok...not toddlers, we were a little older than that...

During these 13 years we have had our "ups" and "downs", and it is through the "downs" (some that were really ugly) that we learned more and more about each other and about how gracious God is to us.

So in honor of 13 years of marriage, here are 13 lessons I have learned over the years:

1. I have no power to change any person. God is the only one with the power.

2. When I let go of the control is when God can work in my life and in other's lives.

3. I don't need to sweat the small stuff, and most everything is small stuff.

4. I can choose to be grateful each day!

5. It is important to know my husband's love language and show him love it that way and not in my love language.

6. Life is short...enjoy the time you have together!

7. Laughter is the best medicine!

8. We need "couple" friends.

9. I need girl friends and he needs guy friends.

10. Being "real" makes life much more enjoyable than pretending and trying to keep up with others. After laying down my "masks of perfection", I became a much more pleasent person to be around.

11. We both are messed up people who need recovery to continue to stay emotionally, physically, and spiritually healthy.

12. It is important to apologize as soon as you can, otherwise resentments will build, which leads to further problems down the road.

13. Joy is inside your soul and is there no matter what comes your way! I can chose joy in the midst of hard times or good times.

Happy Anniversary honey! I love you! I'm excited to see where God guides us in the next 13 years!

"Saviour King"

2011-07-05T10:53:00.004-05:00

This song is speaking me today. I hope you enjoy!

Saviour King - Hillsong Chapel (2010)

Let now the weak say I have strength
By the Spirit of Power that raised Christ from the dead
Let now the poor stand and confess
That my portion is Him and i'm more than blessed

Let now our hearts burn with a flame
A fire consuming all
For Your Son's holy Name
And with the heavens we declare
You are our King

We love You Lord
We worship You
You are our God
You alone are good

Let now Your church shine as Your bride
That You saw in Your heart as You offered up Your life
Let now the lost be welcomed home
By the saved and redeemed, those adopted as Your own

Let now our hearts burn with a flame
A fire consuming all
For Your Son's holy Name
And with the heavens we declare
You are our King

We love You Lord
We worship You
You are our God
You alone are good

You asked Your Son to carry this
The heavy cross our weight of sin

I love you Lord, I worship You
Hope which was lost now stands renewed
I give my life to honor this
The love of Christ the Savior King

I give my life to honor this
The love of Christ the Savior King

I give my life to honor this
The love of Christ the Savior King

Gus would NOT be a part of this...

2011-04-25T11:08:00.002-05:00

This is just hilarious! If you want a laugh on this rainy Monday....click on the link below!

Funny Dog Aerobics

Dancing...

2011-04-08T07:15:00.008-05:00

It is a beautiful thing to me to watch my niece dance. She LOVES to dance...she has been dancing since she was 3. She is really really good...and that is not just from me. Many people let her know (people that are actually trained dancers) how good she is doing. Here are a few pictures of Camryn's dancing this competition season:

Camryn is in the middle

In the green outfit

In the red and white polka dot dress

And a few shots of her solo

I love to watch kids do what they love to do best...be it sports, singing, acting, dancing, etc. I love to see their passion...it is contagious!

Start Spreading the News...

2011-03-16T07:07:00.009-05:00

We're leaving in May

We want to be a part of it
New York, New York!

Yes, it is official, almost 13 years of marriage we are going on a real vacation.

Yes, of course we have gone to Branson for a long weekend and we have our annual Christmas Vacation in Branson with the Kerr Family, but this year we decided to take a real live week-long vacation and we decided on New York City! Technically we'll be staying in New Jersey but our time will be spent in "The Big Apple"...the "Contrete Jungle where dreams are made of..." (Insert your own nickname for NYC).

I'm really excited because I have been with my friend on her business trip when we took her daughter to see NYC and had a great time. John has never been so it will be exciting to be there with someone who has not seen it...and maybe after this he can stop asking me if that is REALLY what it is like in NYC...when we see a scene from any movie filmed there...yes it is what it looks like but it is not easy to comprehend until you have been. :-)

That's our big news that we wanted to share!

Where is your favorite vacation spot?

3-yr-old rejoicing after being healed

2011-02-21T07:56:00.001-06:00

I get tears in my eyes and a huge smile on my face when I watch this video! This says it all...how I should be when Christ does a work of healing in my life!!

Let Go

2011-01-13T06:31:00.000-06:00

It's Beginning to Look a lot like Christmas...

2010-11-28T18:42:00.003-06:00

Welcome...come in and take a look around at our 2010 Christmas decorations.

We had a great Thanksgiving with friends and families!

Looking forward to this Christmas Season.

Listening is a Discipline

2010-09-09T07:05:00.006-05:00

Do you know the difference between a wise man and a know-it-all? They know the same amount. The difference is that a wise man waits until he is asked to share what he knows.

"A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered."
Proverbs 17:27 NLT

"Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble."
Proverbs 21:23 NLT

This is certainly something I have struggled with over my life. I'm sure more than once I have been called a know-it-all.

More recently I have come to learn and actually put into practice listening twice as much as I speak. It is not easy at first, because many times I felt like I just really know how to "fix" that person's problem.

I'm grateful for learning that it is not my job to "fix" others...that is God's job. Do you know how much weight that takes off a recovering control-freak's shoulders??!!

So today I'm grateful for the discipline of listening twice as much as talking...as the old saying goes...that is why God gave us TWO ears and only ONE mouth.

Could it Be?

2010-08-27T06:36:00.002-05:00

Could it be that fall is actually on it's way? The morning temperatures the last part of this week are just lovely (between 60 and 65 degrees). I love the fall with the temperatures cooling off, the high school and college football games, the holidays are around the corner...for me it is a time for getting to enjoy being outside again...sugar melts in the heat, you know...hee hee!

We are looking forward to spending time with friends and family this fall. We are looking forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas time. We are looking forward to a weekend trip to Northwest Arkansas in the next couple of months. Although there are many things that we are looking forward to, mostly we just take it one day at a time. Living in the present...being present in the present. We only have the time that we are in and we have learned to enjoy that time.

"Verbal Reality"

2010-07-14T09:40:00.004-05:00

I had not heard of that term before reading this blog post, however, I have lived it. This is the reason I encourage all family members to get into a recovery program for themselves.

There is much we can learn from the support of those who have been through or are going through the same chaos as you. Letting go is the hardest part, but the best thing that can be done.

My heart is always heavy when I hear of people I know that are in the chains of addiction and my heart goes out to the family as well (I have two families from my past that I am praying for this week). Although not the path I would have chosen for my life, GOD gets all the glory in my story...because now I am able to be there for others going through this process. He truly is in control!

Catching Up

2010-07-12T06:39:00.003-05:00

Wow! It is has been more than a month since I posted anything. We have just been enjoying the summer...going low-key this summer. Since my last post we have both had our birthdays where we spent time together and enjoyed watching movies and going out to eat. We stay involved with our Celebrate Recovery group/friends and have been reconnecting with older friends.
We are pretty boring these days which is what seems to work for us. It seems my blogging has fallen to the wayside in place of the few sentences of status updates on Facebook. So, that is the place to stay in touch with me on a more regular basis.
Until I post again! Here's to a blessed summer and trying to stay cool!

Think on the Positive!

2010-06-08T08:49:00.002-05:00

Do you need a laugh this morning?
Dog Entertains a Child

Here is a little positive thinking!
A Kid with a Positive Attitude

Book Review: "Plan B" by Pete Wilson

2010-05-03T07:37:00.003-05:00

Have you ever come to the point in life and thought "This is not what I had planned" or "Why me, God"? If so, this book is for you.

As a person who is living out Plan B in her life, I appreciate the honesty with which Pete writes this book. He has included personal stories as well as stories of Biblical characters that have faced a time of Plan B in their lives.

The book was easy to read and one that I will personally re-read over and over again.

Pete reminds us that when you find yourself in a situation where you are faced with living Plan B, “…God knows how hard it can be to live in Plan B…He just keeps whispering into our bruised souls this gentle reminder: You may not sense me or feel me. But take heart because I really am here.” This is the comfort and hope that is offered in this book.

This book is a must read for anyone facing or living Plan B, and it is one that I plan to purchase several of just to have as a resource give to others that may be facing their own Plan B.

I am thankful to have had the opportunity to review this book, which was provided to me by Thomas Nelson and BookSneeze.

If you want more information about Pete and this book, or read personal Plan B stories visit the book's website: http://www.planbbook.com/

Quote for the Day

2010-04-06T08:01:00.001-05:00

"In order to acheive wholeness, our desire for healing must exceed our aversion to pain" - Christine Cain

Vapor

2010-03-05T07:12:00.002-06:00

James 4:13-15 "Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit”; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.”

This past weekend, Christine Cain (from Hillsong Church in Australia) spoke during our weekend services and at our Women's Event. She spoke about living a life of risk. God didn't call us to live a nice safe life for Him. He called us to live dangerously for Him. She used what looked like an aerosal can of hairspray when she spoke about how short our lives are...a vapor. We need to live our lives to the fullest...God came to give us life and life more abundantly (John 10:10).

Then last night I was reminded of this again as I was checking my facebook account and found out my college roommate's husband died very unexpectedly yesterday.

Life is but a vapor.

My heart is breaking for Laura and her 7 year old daughter Kristin. I cannot imagine what they are going through. I know they have peace that Chris is in Heaven, but I am praying for comfort and strength for them. Praying that the "what-if's" do not consume her. Praying for her daughter...who just lost her daddy.

Will you join me in prayer for them?

New Living Room Furniture

2010-03-02T21:01:00.004-06:00

This time we did it right! In the past we have gone into debt for the furniture we have purchased...this time we waited until we had cash...here is a peek at our new living room furniture and my new awesome canvas painting I have been waiting to buy!

Top 24 - Guy's Night and Results Show

2010-02-26T06:17:00.003-06:00

Guy'sNight
Since I was a day late watching the boys on AI...I'll just go with overall impression...

Not impressed with the guys either. It is hard to believe going from Hollywood week to live can cause that much of a difference in their voices. There were a few that you could tell could sing well but were just nervous. I'm hoping for a much better AI week vocally next week.

Results Show

Janell Wheeler - I wasn't really shocked by this one...I think her choice of song did her in.

Ashley Rodriguez - Pretty shocked by this one. She was really good in auditions and Hollywood and there were others that I felt needed to go.

Joe Munoz - WHAT??? He was one of the guys I thought did NOT seem nervous and had a decent voice. Even Tim knew America got that one wrong.

Tyler Grady - YEAH! Poor kid needs to figure who he is as a singer if he wants to continue in this profession...otherwise...he needs to just do impersonations.

Here's to hoping a lot of the nerves are over and we have a better week next week on Idol!

Girls Night - AI Top 24

2010-02-24T08:26:00.003-06:00

Just a few thoughts on American Idol...

I LOVE having Ellen on the show!!

Kara - WOW!! She is no longer the 4th judge anymore...she seems to have let this judge thing go to her head. She is annoying to me this season.

For all the hype of how strong the girls are this year...I was underwhelmed to say the least. I'm not sure why most girls just impersonate the singers versus just being themselves. Maybe it was nerves...heck, I know I would be nervous as all get out...but the girls were quite shaky tonight.

Looking forward to the guys tonight---Go Andrew Garcia!

Complete Obedience

2010-01-24T15:56:00.004-06:00

Today was a very special day for our family. My niece, Camryn, was baptized. She had accepted Christ as her Savior a while back, but now that she and Andrea, my sister, found a church home, she wanted to be baptized. It was very special because my dad was able to perform the baptism. It was such a wonderful thing to see Camryn follow in obedience God's command to believers to be baptized after salvation. It was a beautiful sight to behold!

Love you Cam!

Happy Birthday!

2010-01-08T08:37:00.003-06:00

Although I know most of the world is celebrating the birthday of Elvis...in our family this day belongs to my niece, Camryn!

It has been amazing to watch her grow up over the last 8 years. She stole a piece of my heart that morning...I married into a family where I became and aunt (and I love them very much as well), but there is something special it being your own niece or nephew. Probably because she is from our family line...she has our character traits...so far...she has been a "mini-Alison" and believe me...I had nothing to do with it! She loves to talk, loves to dance, loves her friends and family and most importantly loves God--her Savior!

She is a special blessing to our family!

Cam, I love you "more than my luggage" (some day you will know the movie this comes from)!

Hope you have a GREAT 8th birthday! Love you bunches!

Aunt Alison

Christmas Day in Photos

2009-12-31T09:05:00.005-06:00

Momma's House in the morning. We had our tradition of breakfast casserole and Camryn ran the opening of presents. It's like she gets it honestly from her family!! LOL!

And here is who stole the show this Christmas...it's a rat?...No...a squirrel? No...it's Gabe...Camryn's new Yorkie! Santa was good to her this year. The video of her opening the box with him in it is priceless! Below he is sporting a Christmas hoodie. That is just how he rolls! Well, except when his mom and "older mom" (my sis doesn't want to be a grandma) try to put bows in his hair. Oh my! However, my personal favorite look is the mohawk he sported for a while that day! Welcome to the crazy, Gabe!

Then Christmas afternoon we went home and had our Christmas together.

That evening we went to a CR gathering at one of the leader's homes then went to watch a movie with our friends, Mark and Pam.

Christmas was a great break...I took off work from the 17th-27th...a nice long relaxing break with friends and family!

Kerr Family Chrsitmas Vacation

2009-12-29T04:00:00.002-06:00

Oh dear...our Kerr Family Christmas has several characters. If you follow me on Facebook, back on December 18th...you saw that Cousin Eddie (Keith and Family) and The Grinch (Pat and Family) showed up at our family vacation. LOL!!!

For the last three years the Kerr's meet up in Branson. This year was great...I took it easy (by that I mean left the "directing" up to others...That job will not be mine again...yeah!), slept late, no schedule, visited a lot with nephews, nieces bothers and sister-in-laws. It was wonderful!

Here are a few pics...

The boys always give each other gag gifts...one of the highlights of our present opening time:

Zak, Robert, and Kristi enjoying being together

Grayson
Avery

Present Time (Saturday Night):

Lauren brought a friend along this year...they bought matching glasses for each other!

Keith's got GRILLZ

You turn 18 in our family and you are no longer exempt from gag gifts...problem is he liked them...see photo below!

Even Dad is not exempt...he got a SpongeBob SquareTie!

This gift to Pat took the cake this year...Anti-MonkeyButt Bathroom gift set!

Told you he liked them...

One of Grayson's nicknames is Master G...well he used Keith Grillz to complete his look!Fun was had by all! Love to all my Kerr Family...I've been with you all for half of my life! WOW!

Wonderful Break

2009-12-28T07:04:00.002-06:00

We had a great Christmas this year. We got to spend time with both of our families and time with friends. I will be putting posts up about our Christmas this week. For now, I will be under a mound of emails and work that I need to catch up on because of being off since the 17th!

Oh Christmas Tree

2009-12-06T18:53:00.006-06:00

Since this post was already about our Christmas Tree (which is my favorite decoration this year) I thought I would join the Christmas Tour of Homes with The Nester.

Welcome everyone and enjoy!

Finally got these pictures posted and they really do not do the tree justice. It is really glittery and sparkley...just the way I like it. If you know me...you know I like bling!

I give you the Kerr Christmas Tree 2009:

See even our new tree topper is blingy!
Since we changed up the theme and the stockings we had were from college days...here are our new stockings. Only thing lacking is Gus' pictuer in the star on his new stocking!

Merry Christmas from John, Alison and Gus Kerr!

25 Questions about Christmas

2009-12-02T07:40:00.002-06:00

Since I haven't had time to upload our Christmas tree pictures...I thought this little Christmas questionnaire looked fun...feel free to copy and use when you need some blog fodder!

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags?
Wrapping paper! I love to see gifts wrapped under a tree.

2. Real tree or Artificial?
Pre-lit artificial…love the real tree smell but a lot of work!

3. When do you put up the tree?
We try to put it up the weekend before Thanksgiving. I mean I like to enjoy my Christmas decorations for more than 4 weeks

4. When do you take the tree down?
Depends on when Christmas falls…it in the middle of the week and I don’t have off…the weekend after Christmas. If it falls on the weekend…then usually a day or two after Christmas.

5. Do you like eggnog?
No, I’m not into “milk” that is so think it stays on the sides of the glass…BLEH!

6. Favorite gift received as a child?
I’m gonna go with the trampoline. It may be the memory of my sister realizing what is what and JUMPING into my arms with excitement that we got a trampoline (I know there is a picture of this)!

7. Hardest person to buy for?
Teenage nieces and nephews…that is why I don’t buy…just give them money!

8. Easiest person to buy for?
Hubby

9. Do you have a nativity scene?
Yes

10. Mail or email Christmas cards?
Oh…I love to make Christmas cards…but haven’t the time the last few years…so then I usually don’t go out and buy cards. I love the personal touch of homemade cards.

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received?
Hmmm…I’m pretty easy to please. I guess the only thing I can think of is the year that my mother-in-law bought all three of her daughter-in-laws the same jumper dress that was got the previous year. She was always a sucker for sales...she bought things all year round. I guess she REALLY liked those jumpers.

12. Favorite Christmas Movie?
Oh man I LOVE Christmas movies...can't pick just one….well we start of the Christmas season with “National Lampoons Christmas Vacation”…then must-see movies are “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” with Jim Carrey, “The Family Man”, “A Christmas Story”, "Miracle on 34th Street" (newer version), "It's a Wonderful Life"…then I'm a nerd about Christmas movies so I try to DVR all the made for TV Christmas movies and watch them as I have time!

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas?
Couple of weeks before.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present?
No…not that I can remember

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas?
Breakfast Casserole at my Mom’s house Christmas morning!

16. Lights on the tree?
Absolutely…we like the white lights

17. Favorite Christmas song?
“Oh Holy Night”

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home?
Both…we have a Kerr Family Christmas trip to Branson the weekend before Christmas…this is the 3rd year…it is lots of fun! We “travel” the 35 minutes to my mom’s on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day (depending on my niece’s schedule). Hubby and I always open our presents to each other at home.

19. Can you name all of Santa’s reindeer?
Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner and Blitzen and Rudolph

20. Angel on the tree top or a star?
Star

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning?
Christmas morning

22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year?
The pace that Christmas season can bring if you don’t take time to enjoy.

23. Favorite ornament theme or color?
My favorite…oh, you are asking the wrong person here…I love what I call the “traditional” tree…meaning you use all different types of ornaments that you have collected over the years.

I love me a theme tree. This year (post is coming) we are going with a new theme. Didn’t think I was going to like it but hubby did great on picking it because I think it is BEAUTIFUL!

I personally would have LOTS of trees if I could. I just love ‘em!

24. Favorite memory of Christmas?
Oh…I can’t pick a favorite. I have many great memories of Christmas.

When my sister and I were little she got up early and found our big teddy bears from Santa…she came and woke me up and asked if I wanted mine. When our parents woke up they found her in her bed with that teddy bear.

The Christmas of my senior year of high school when John asked me to marry him.

All the crazy gifts the Kerr brothers buy for each other…many laughs with those.

Just spending time with family and friends.

25. What do you want for Christmas this year?
Oh…I don’t know…I’m sure I’ll think of something.

Show Us Your Life - Pet Edition

2009-11-20T09:01:00.007-06:00

I see that Kelly's Korner is having Show Us Your Life-Pets edition and I thought I might get in on the action.

Here is Gus!

We have had him for over 6 years...One Saturday afternoon (Valentines Day in 2003) I made up my mind I wanted a dog and went the our county's adopt-a-pet day. I had it narrowed down to two dogs one that would be a big dog and this little guy:

He had been hit by a car and his leg was broken. He was really sweet and just ended up capturing my heart. John was not thrilled with the idea AT ALL! (which is why the below picture is funny...this was the day we got him...he took to John quickly. What is funny to me is that this picture is the normal relationship between John and Gus now, but then it was HILARIOUS!)

He insisted that he would NOT sleep with us at all, and for about 2 months he did not. Then it was time for John to go on a fishing trip...he said "When I get back, I don't want Gus to be in bed with us"...not 30 minutes later that night before he left, HE brought Gus to the bed and he as been there ever since! SUCKER!

It really is hard to imagine life without Gus. He is the perfect dog for us. He is quiet and enjoys sitting right beside you on the couch or curled up snoozing in the bed.

He rounds out our little family. Love you Gussie Boy!

It's All about Choices

2009-11-19T06:23:00.002-06:00

During this time of year, it is extremely easy to become discontent and ungrateful...I mean, every stinkin' commercial on TV is showing us something that we "need" and at a great discounted price!

However, we can make two choices today...

1) We can choose Contentment - In Philippians 4:11-13, Paul shows us the secret of being content..."I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength". How is that the secret to contentment? Because at this moment Christ has given me everything I need to live out the purpose He has for me...for right now. Everyday He gives me strength for that day. That is the secret to being content. Will you choose today to rest in that promise?

2) We can choose Gratitude - Proverbs 15:15-16 "For the despondent, every day brings trouble; for the happy heart, life is a continual feast. Better to have little, with fear for the Lord, than to have great treasure and inner turmoil."
Do you know what the #1 most visited house is in the United States…the White House…the second? Graceland…Elvis’ house. On the outside Elvis had everything…money, materials, fame, but at age 42 he killed himself with by overdosing. He has been quoted saying “I would give 1 Million dollars for ONE day’s peace." That is a heavy statement.
We can choose to be grateful...to God, for others, for our spiritual journey, our church, etc.

When we fall into discontentment and un-gratitude, it is like telling God, "After all you have done for me I could care less, because it is not enough for me."

Let's start today by making good choices; to be content and grateful.

Update on Mary

2009-11-05T06:49:00.001-06:00

Message received about 8:30 last night:

"...the surgery went great........doctors are very pleased with everything........and Mary doesn't even have to stay in ICU tonight - her breathing is great and she got to go to a private room already! WHAT A PRAISE!!!! Everyone's prayers have helped and I'm sure she has felt them. Keep praying for her recovery! Will keep you guys posted. God is so good!"

Today is the Day for Prayer

2009-11-04T07:59:00.002-06:00

Remember a few posts ago when I asked for prayer for my friend Mary? Well today is the day of her surgery. Please be in prayer for this whole situation! Thanks!

He Heals and Restores

2009-11-03T08:19:00.004-06:00

Praising the Lord this morning for allowing me the oportunity last night to share what He has done in my life!

He took me from:

~ a person full of selfishness and pride

~ a person who with low self-image and very little self-love

~ a person so wrapped up in pleasing others

~ a person who had an extensive "mask" collection

~ a person with no boundaries

~ a person bound by fear

And as I became willing to give Him EVERYTHING (bad and good) He has restored to me the Joy of my salvation

By finding a place where I could learn to be the real me in front of God and others and I could work through the Biblical principles of recovery (through Celebrate Recovery), He is "restor(ing) the years the locusts have eaten" (Joel 2:25).

I came into recovery like He says in Matthew 11:18 "weary and carry(ing) heavy burdens" and He "gave me rest"! I rest in Him and live in His will for my life. What FREEDOM!

"Show me the path where I should walk, O Lord; point out the right road for me to follow." Psalm 25:4

Trick Or Treat

2009-10-30T06:31:00.005-05:00

Oh my lands...I got these on an email from a friend. I hope you get a kick out of these like I did. I wonder if Gus would allow this????

John would probably like for Gus to dress up like this:

But my personal favorite and I have been saying for years that Gus should dress up to be Aslan from "The Chronicles of Narnia"....maybe I can show him this picture below!

Prayer Warriors Needed

2009-10-27T12:07:00.003-05:00

One of my best friends from high school found out in our senior year (almost 12 years ago) that she had cancer. She had to have a portion of her leg amputated and had chemotherapy. After graduation she had some spots in her lungs and had a couple of surgeries to remove those spots.

I got the following message Sunday evening saying she has had another reoccurence of the cancer. I am trying to spread the word to as many people as possible to pray for my friend, Mary!

The message from our mutal friend:
Some of you may have heard by now that our sweet Mary has had another reoccurence of cancer masses show up. She has 2 masses in her lung, one of which is close to her heart. Her surgery to remove these masses is scheduled for November 4th. I just wanted to send this out to let you guys know and to ask for prayer on her behalf -
prayers of strength for Mary and her mom,
prayers of guidance with the physicians,
prayers of healing and recovery,
and finally prayers of peace in Mary's heart in going through this again.

Mary lives and works in San Francisco - has a great physician and surgeon, but is still far away. Her mom will be with her. If you guys could please pray for her - we all have been blessed by Mary in one way or another. What an amazing attitude towards cancer - never has given up or slowed down.

Thank You!

"Not Guilty"

2009-10-20T06:46:00.003-05:00

I have been listening to the newest Mandisa album. She always has fun songs (musically) on her albums but is it always those ballads and the lyrics to those that touch me. Here are the words to one of the songs on the album "Freedom"...

“Not Guilty”
I stand accused
There’s a list a mile long
Of all my sins
Of everything that I’ve done wrong.
I’m so ashamed
There’s no where left for me to hide
This is the day
I must answer for my life.
My fate is the judge’s hands
But then He turns to me and says…

I know you, I love you
I gave my life to save you
Love paid the price for mercy
My verdict… Not Guilty

How can it be?
I can’t begin to comprehend
What kind of grace
Would take the place for all my sin
I stand in awe
Now that I have been set free
And the tears welled up as I look at that cross
Cause it should have been me
My fate was in the nail scarred hands
He stretched them out for me and said…

I know you, I love you
I gave my life to save you
Love paid the price for mercy
My verdict… Not Guilty

I’m fallin’ on my knees
I thank you
With everything I am, gonna praise you
So grateful for the words I heard you say…

I know you, I love you
I gave my life

I know you, I love you
I gave my life just to save you
Love paid the price for mercy
My verdict is Not Guilty
Love paid the price for mercy
My verdict…Not Guilty…Not Guilty

Ephesians 3:20-21 - The Break Down

2009-10-01T06:48:00.004-05:00

"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen."

Priscilla took these verse and broke them down into 7 points...here they are with the nuggets of wisdom I got from each section

1. There is a Time ("Now...") - Now is the time to consider God's ability...not matter what season you are going through there is a time and it is NOW to think about God's greatness!

2. There is a Turning ("...to Him...") - Turn unto Him. We must do a complete 180 from the problems we are focusing on and focus only on Him. Your girlfriend can only sympathize...talk to God who can work a miracle! When we are manipulating situations we think we are God...we have to follow the command in Psalm 46:10a "Be still, and know that I am God;".

3. There is a Truth ("...who is able...") - Our God is able to do it for you!!! The question of whether He does is His sovereignty, but He is able. There is never a question of His ability. We can't out pray, dream or think God. His power to do something in your life is like dynamite. Because power is who God is not what He has, we can know that just because he does a miracle in someone else's life, does not mean He has less power for you!

4. There is a Transcendence ("...to do exceedingly abundantly above...") - God can do above and beyond, beyond. Whatever you ever think God can do, He can do beyond that! She gave a great example on our type of scale to help illustrate this point. You ask your child to clean their room while you are gone. That is the expectation. And when you get home, they have met the expectation of having their room clean, but went beyond and your whole house is clean. That is going beyond....However, beyond the beyond is if they cleaned their room, your house and then have a hot bath ready for you with dinner prepared and are going to serve it to you in the bath!! LOL! That is beyond...beyond!

5. There is a Totality ("...all that we ask or think...") - Everything that concerns you, concerns God.

6. There is a Turbo Power ("...according to the power that works in us...") - There is not a lot of things we can bank on in this life, but one thing we can bank on is the power that is working in us.

7. There is a Tribute ("...to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.")

My prayer is now that even in these notes that God begins to open your heart as He did mine to know that my God is the power that works in me to do exceedingly abundantly more than I could ever ask or imagine. I can dwell in possibility and you can as well!

Ephesians 3:20-21

2009-09-28T07:52:00.002-05:00

Last night at our women's event Priscilla Shirer spoke on these verses. I'll get my notes together and give you all the nuggets of wisdom that she gave last night. It was an AWESOME event!

Pet's Journals

2009-09-17T07:09:00.002-05:00

Excerpts from a Dog's Diary ......
8:00 am - Dog food! My favorite thing!
9:30 am - A car ride! My favorite thing!
9:40 am - A walk in the park! My favorite thing!
10:30 am - Got rubbed and petted! My favorite thing!
12:00 pm - Lunch! My favorite thing!
1:00 pm - Played in the yard! My favorite thing!
3:00 pm - Wagged my tail! My favorite thing!
5:00 pm - Milk Bones! My favorite thing!
7:00 pm - Got to play ball! My favorite thing!
8:00 pm - Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favorite thing!
11:00 pm - Sleeping on the bed! My favorite thing!

Excerpts from a Cat 's Diary .....

Day 983 of my captivity.

My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength.

The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape. In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomit on the carpet. Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am capable of. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a 'good little hunter' I am.

There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of 'allergies.' I must learn what this means and how to use it to my advantage.

Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow - but at the top of the stairs.

I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches. The dog receives special privileges.He is regularly released - and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded.

Go HOGS Go!

2009-09-05T17:46:00.002-05:00

Today starts the college football season....

WOOOOO PIG SOOIE! RAZORBACKS!

BooMama's Diptacular!

2009-09-04T06:24:00.004-05:00

Since football watching will be in full swing at our house starting this weekend...I thought I would participate in BooMama's Diptacular event. This is one of our favorite dips:

Touchdown Taco Dip

1 - 28 oz can of refried beans

2 - 80z cream cheese (softened)

1 - 160z tub of sour cream

1 - pkg. taco seasoning

4 - cloves of garlic

Shredded cheese

Optional toppings - tomatoes, black olives, green onions

Spread the beans in a 9x13 pan. In large mixing bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sour cream, taco seasoning and garlic (I personally use the jar of minced garlic and put in a heaping teaspoon of that. OR if you are feeling fancy, you can get your garlic press out and press out 4 cloves of fresh garlic). Spread this mixture over the beans. Cover with shredded cheese. Bake at 350 for 30 mintues or until the cheese is really melted and the sides are bubbling.

Let it cool for a few minutes. Then you can add topping if you like. Serve with tortilla chips and cheer on your favorite team!

WOOOO PIG SOOIE!!! RAZORBACKS!

A Beautiful Site to Behold

2009-08-27T06:30:00.002-05:00

Last night, we attended a Baptism Service at our church. Our friend's children were baptized and there were several other new friends being baptized as well.

It is wonderful to be a part of the public declaration of other's who have accepted the call of salvation on their life.

The last person that was baptized last night was a 95 year old lady! It was such a reminder that it is never too late.

I always cry at a baptism of those I know (and I did when it was Faith and Luke's turn)...but as I saw this precious lady be held in the arms of one of the pastor's and then baptized I had tears running down my face. I was just so grateful that God loves us so much and that we can come to Him at any age.

It was just a beautiful site to behold.

"How great is our God
Sing with me,
How great is our God
And all will see
How great,
How great is our God!"

God's Message to Me and You

2009-08-05T07:17:00.003-05:00

This song was playing on my alarm this morning...I just laid there and listened to it. What a great way to start the day!

He is jealous for me,

Loves like a hurricane, I am a tree,

Bending beneath the weight of his wind and mercy.

When all of a sudden,

I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory,

And I realize just how beautiful You are,

And how great Your affections are for me.

And oh, how He loves us so,

Oh how He loves us,

How He loves us so.

Yeah, He loves us,

Oh, how He loves us,

Oh, how He loves.

Yeah, He loves us,
Oh, how He loves us,
Oh, how He loves us,
Oh, how He loves.

We are His portion and He is our prize,

Drawn to redemption by the grace in His eyes,

If grace is an ocean, we’re all sinking.

So Heaven meets earth like an unforseen kiss,

And my heart turns violently inside of my chest,

I don’t have time to maintain these regrets,

When I think about, the way…

He loves us,
Oh, how He loves us,
Oh, how He loves us,
Oh, how He loves.
Yeah, He loves us,

Oh, how He loves us,

Oh, how He loves.

Survey for Grown Ups!

2009-07-21T06:51:00.003-05:00

Got this survey from Following Footsteps.

Tired of all of those surveys made up by high school kids?! 'Have you ever kissed someone? Missed someone? Told someone you loved them? Drank alcohol? Well, here are questions for those of us who are a little older.

1. What bill do you hate paying the most?
Insurance...Glad to have it if ever something happens, but for real, when nothing happens...seems like a lot of money out the window for "just in case"

2. Where was the last place you had a romantic date?
We are not the sappy type...but we did see "The Proposal" and we normally don't go see chick movies. It was EXCELLENT!

3. What do you really want to be doing right now?
Sleeping!

4. How many colleges did you attend?
Williams Baptist College, took some classes from Pulaski Tech and finished at Central Baptist College

5. Why did you choose the shirt that you have on right now?
goes with the black pants and denim jacket

6. What are your thoughts on gas prices?
I have to have gas...so I have to pay. Even when close to $4, God provided as he ALWAYS does!

7. First thought when the alarm went off this morning?
Ugh!

8. Last thought before going to sleep last night?
Thank you Lord for your healing power over bondage in our lives!

9. Do you miss being a child?
Not really

10. What errand/chore do you despise?
Bringing in the groceries! We live in an upstairs apartment on the back side away from the parking lot.

11. Get up early or sleep in?
Get up early...only 5 days a week
Sleep in...weekends

12. What do you get every time you go into Wal-Mart?
bread

13. Beach or lake?
Either will be fine!

14. Do you think marriage is an outdated ritual?
Absolutely not! However, so many these days do and it has cause many problems.

15. Sopranos or Desperate Housewives?
Neither

16. Have you ever crashed your vehicle?
No, but I have been crashed into by Mr. Following Footsteps!! :-) (love ya!)

17. Ever had to use a fire extinguisher for it's intended purpose?
Not for it's intended purpose or any other purpose.

18. Ring tone?
I have some assigned to people but my main ring tone is "Revelation Song" by Kari Jobe.

19. Strangest place you have ever brushed your teeth.
Not really sure...

20. Where have you never been and would like to go?
The Northeast U.S.

21. At this point in your life would you rather start a new career or a new relationship?
No to the new career...
New relationship...if you mean marriage relationship...no way! Friendships/relationships...absolutely...God has brought me several new true friendships in the past 6 months!

22. How old are you?
Just turned the big 3-0! Pretty fun so far!

23. Do you have a "go to" person?
Yep

24. Are you where you want to be in life?
Yes...God has me just where HE wants me....growing in Him!

25. Growing up, what were your favorite cartoons?
Flintstones

26. What about you do you think has changed the most?
Surrendering EVERYTHING (good, bad, ugly, pretty...everything) to God...and walking daily in Him...not worrying about what others want from me but only what He wants...FREEING!

27. Looking back at high school were they the best years of your life?
They were pretty great...but I think that now is even better!

28. Did you have a pager?
Yes...in college along with a cell phone...WHAT THE HECK was a pager going to do? ;-) That is just funny to me now to think about a pager!

29. Where was the hang out spot when you were a teenager?
Do not know....we usually hung out at different friends houses

30. Were you the type of kid you would want your children to hang out with?
Yes...I have always been the more cautious type...didn't want to break the rules.

31.Who do you think impacted your life the most?
Several people...in junior high...my youth pastor...Tim Montgomery
Now...my friend and mentor- Pam

32. Was there a teacher or authority figure that stood out for you?
Jennifer Colquitt...my 11th and 12th grade English teacher. She was fresh from graduate school and he thoroughly prepared me for college Comp I & II...those classes were a breeze because Mrs. Colquitt made us write so much in high school!

33. Do you tell stories that start with “when I was your age..."?
I believe I have!

Well, I needed blog fodder...if you do...copy and post this to your blog!

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2009-07-14T06:52:00.004-05:00

Today is my Daddy's birthday! Here he is just last week in Dallas with Camryn!

I love you very much! You have always been an example of Christ's love to me. You have a servant's heart and I greatly admire that in you. You touch many people's lives and for that we are all better people! You mean the world to the 4 girls in your life! I hope you have a great birthday!

The Day I Turned 30

2009-07-07T18:00:00.001-05:00

Today has been a GREAT birthday. My intention was to have photographic evidence of my 30th birthday day, however, I just can't remember to get the camera out.

I remembered this morning when I got to work and my co-workers had streamers and confetti all over my office also a basket of items "older" folks might need! For the fun of it...I'm leaving most of it up all week!

For lunch a few of my co-workers went to a place called EJ's...had a burger and homemade potato chips! YUM!

Got home and went with my hubby to get his crown put on...this was scheduled over 2 weeks ago. While he was at the dentist...I got my drivers license renewed.

We came back to Conway...had some YUMMY Mexican food...and came home to relax.

I have gotten many birthday wishes on my Facebook page, text messages and phone calls. Had a great birthday party this past weekend weekend...and my neice got 7th overall on her solo and 4th overall on her duet at the national dance competition in Dallas. I'm not there, but I can just imagine how wonderful she did on those dances.

You know, as you grow up...a day like this is exactly the kind of day you want to have for your birthday. I am blessed with lots of friends and family and that is the best birthday present a girl could ever ask for her 30th birthday!

4th of July Weekend and 30th Birthday Party

2009-07-06T08:44:00.004-05:00

I must say that this 4th of July is one I will always remember. My husband planned a big 30th brithday party for me and our friend's (Mark and Pam) joined in by hosting the party at their house! It was so much fun despite the clouds and rain that came toward the end of the night. John grilled burgers and hot dogs for the 30 friends and family that attended. The guests got to swim, visit, play ping-pong and watch fireworks. The rain even stayed away for most of the party and the fireworks. It was so nice to see how many friends God has blessed us with this past year! A BIG HUGE "Thank You" to John for planning my 30th birthday party and another BIG HUGE "Thank You" to Mark and Pam for having the party at their house! I love you all!

UPDATED WITH PICTURES:

I officially turn 30 years old at 11:58 a.m. tomorrow, July 7th!

Past couple of weeks in pictures

2009-06-20T04:00:00.000-05:00

Here we are with our friends out to eat at Fuji's for John's birthday dinner!

And I fnally took my camera to the ball park where we have been about 2 nights of the week for the past month and a half. The way it looks now...this may be where we are come October and next summer as well. We have really enjoyed watching our friend's son play baseball and getting to know his friends on his team. What a fun group of boys. They did pretty well this year. Tournament started this past Thursday and will finish up this week.

My Beautiful Sister

2009-06-19T06:47:00.003-05:00

Today marks another birthday in June for a very special person in my life, my beautiful sister, Andrea. (I can't find a picture of just Andrea, most pictures I have these days are of these two together...however, that is reality)

It is hard to believe that my little sister is 28 years old. I still have that big sister mentality to protect her. There have been many things in her past that I could protect her from...strawberry ice cream and tomatoes to name a couple :-). However, there have been things that I could not protect her from...teasing kids, heartbreaks, and a really bad marriage. It is those things that she has been through that have made her into the strong confident woman she is today. I am so very proud of her. Although there are many single parents, this girl "takes the cake". Even when she is worn out and feeling the effects of raising that great girl of hers, she still keeps moving forward, relying on God to get her through.

She is beautiful...she is strong...she is a godly mother...she is my confidant...she is my sister!

Love you An...I hope you have a wonderful birthday!

Attitude of Gratitude Blog Award

2009-06-12T08:55:00.001-05:00

Thanks Kelly! She has awarded me with an attitude of gratitude award. I thought this was really kind of her and I really need inspiration for a blog post so I am getting to write about this subject and pass the love on to others.

My sister - Stronger:Adventures of a Single Mother

My Mom - A Bee In My Bonnet

Baby Evans

The Primm Family

The Arft Family

{The RULES of Accepting & Sharing this Award}
1. Put the above logo on your blog or post
2. Nominate at least 10 blogs (I'm breaking this "rule") that show an Attitude of Gratitude
3. Link to your nominees within your post
4. Comment on their blogs to let them know they've received this award
5. Share the love and link this post and the person who nominated you for this award
6. Tell us how you've come to have an Attitude of Gratitude
So, here we go...

An attitude of gratitude has not always been something that I have had. It is something I strive for daily at this point in my life. In the past 4 months or so, I have worked with a mentor on identifying areas of my life that need work, ridding myself of past resentments and fears and moving forward into what GOD wants for my life. I am so grateful that God brought this lady in my life and grateful for God continuing to pursue me. His Love for me is overwhelming and I am extremely grateful every day for that love.
How I have come to have an attitude of gratitude? By giving over past hurts, habits and hang-ups to God and committing my future to do what He wants not what I want! Keeping my focus only on Him!

June is Full of Them

2009-06-11T06:36:00.003-05:00

June is full of birthdays for me! Today is my hubby's 33rd birthday!

Happy Birthday John! I'm thankful for what the Lord has brought us through and how you are allowing Him to use you to touch others lives. You have a tender heart that cares for others and wants to help. I'm excited to see how God will use you in this next year!

I love you!

Happy Birthday!

2009-06-01T08:22:00.003-05:00

Today is my Momma's Birthday and I wanted to dedicate today's post to her!

Anyone who knows my mother knows that she is a godly woman with strong convictions and she lives by those convictions. She is a teacher at heart and loves being in Christian education. She was dedicated to me and Andrea having a Christian education that she even took a few years off from teaching in the school to home school us. She has been and is my example of a godly wife and mother. I am truly blessed to be her daughter!

I Love You Momma! I hope you have a great birthday!

"Must-See" Summer Show!

2009-05-28T07:41:00.003-05:00

If you did not see this show last summer, it is a MUST SEE for this summer! If you need a good belly laugh over and over again...this is the show for you!

It premiered on ABC last night at 7:00 p.m. Our stomach muscles were hurting within the first few minutes!

Starts off with 24 contestants that go through different obstacle courses that are guarenteed to wipe out the contestants and make you laugh. They work their way down to 3 people to compete in a final obstacle course and the person with the fastest time wins $50,000. Here are a few pictures I found that show some of the obstacles.

We HIGHLY recommend it!!

And the Winner is...

2009-05-21T06:42:00.003-05:00

Our Hometown Boy - KRIS ALLEN!!! WHOO HOO!!! WAY TO GO!

I must say that was the greatest Finale Show American Idol has ever done! American Idol will have a very very hard time topping it. It was hilariously funny and had some AWESOME performances!

Congratulations Kris!

This is American Idol - The Finals!

2009-05-20T06:32:00.002-05:00

We have finally come to the end! One contestant that had a shoe in all season vs. one contestant who probably was not to even make it past Hollywood!

The guys sing one song from the season, one song chose by Simon Fuller (producer of the show) and the "No Boundaries" song co-written by Kara (these songs are always pretty cheezy...this one did not disappoint on the cheezy-ness).

Kris was in the driver's seat because he won the coin toss and chose to go second. It is only fitting since Adam had been last almost all season!

Round 1 - Song choice from the Season

Adam - "Mad World" - He is so smart...that is the only song all season that he did not do the shreaking and it was my favorite song of his because of that! Well-played...and speaking of "playing" did you hear Adam tell Simon he was "playing dress-up". Oh the theatrics!

Kris - "Ain't No Sunshine" - YES!!! That was his best performace of the season so excellent choice! And he nailed it again...we liked it with the piano! AWESOME job!

Round 2 - Song chosen by the Producer

Adam - "Change is Gonna Come" - Hmmm...a bluesy tune for the rocker...we just weren't totally feelin' him and that song. He sang it very well and it was a change of pace from the theatrical singing. Not sure...the little bit screaming threw it into an "odd" category for me.

Kris - "What's Goin' On" - Perfect song choice for Kris. That is the kind of sound he will be putting out on his album...we know that because he has been consistent all year. Excellent Job!

Round 3 - "No Boundaries"

Adam - This is a big song and fit him because he is a big singer. He was off on several of the notes and for one of the first times this season, I could not understand all the words from him. He did well in that he performed it and looked comfortable.

Kris - He is not a "big song" kinda person and bless his heart, the song was too high for him. He did a great job with what he had in that song. Although...when he picked up the mic stand I felt like he almost lost it. He seemed to realize this was the finale and I was afraid he was thinking about what he was singing and was going to lose it. He didn't and finished fairly strong.

Well the guys left it all out there on the stage and it was left up to America. Adam fans voted for Adam and I'm hoping that Danny's voters jumped on the Kris Allen Bandwagon....we shall see!

Check out BooMama for her witty opinion and her Mr. Linky for many other Idol opinions!

God Has Kept Me Here For A Reason

2009-05-15T12:53:00.000-05:00

Repeat after me:

"God has kept me here for a reason.

I survived because He has a plan for me.

All my bad relationships, the addictions, the consequences,

the bad credit, the repossessions, the death of my
loved ones, the back stabbing from my friends, the negative thoughts, or
the lack of support; I made it because I am blessed!
I release and let go of all past hurts, misunderstandings and grudges
because I am abundantly blessed! I recognize them as the illusions
they are, and sent from the enemy to kill my spirit, steal my joy, and
destroy my faith; for God is all there is. All else is a lie!"

Now give yourself a hug, wipe your tears away and walk in victory!!!

I love you, but more appropriately God loves you BEST!

Be blessed and know that you are at one with THE SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD!

American Idol - Top 3

2009-05-13T06:41:00.004-05:00

WOW! It is hard to believe we are down to the final three contestants on American Idol. I must say that this past weekend everyone was going crazy here in Conway, AR. Close to 20,000 people crammed into our downtown area to see Kris perform live. Funny how about 5 seconds of each hometown visit was shown. As tired as the guys were and as many appearances that were made and they only show the time of them getting their text message about what song.

This is one of the most best parts of American Idol...getting to see each hometown and all the hoopla that goes on with it. Not sure why Fox is keeping AI to one hour recently. This has been the season of them going overtime. Maybe they will change it for next season...by separating Paula and Simon. I mean they were all a little over-the-top childish acting last night. I wrote down a saying from Mrs. Following Footsteps "Kids, I'm gonna pull this show over!"

On to the singing:
Danny -
Song picked by Paula - "Dance Little Sister" - I had not heard the song but it was perfect for Danny. Funky song...we liked it! Good Job! Comment from Hubby "Shocking that Paula would pick a dance song."
His Choice - "You are So Beautiful" - Oh...FABULOUS! Love, Love, Love this song! EXCELLENT choice Danny-boy!

Kris - (sandwiched in the middle of the two they want in the finals)
Song picked by Randy and Kara - "Apologize" - Yeah...like this song. I liked that he played the piano. Song was like the original--the only one he sang like the original all season and he gets bashed. This song in my mind doesn't lend itself for much interpretation.
His Choice - "Heartless" - Started out acapella and then just him and the guitar! BRILLIANT performance! Excellent choice Kris! We loved it!

Adam -
Song picked by Simon - "One" - Oh the first half of that was BEAUTIFUL! I really like it when he just sings in his pure tone. Just as I was asking Hubs if this song lends itself to the tongue and screaming...it began. Dang...I was really hoping to like the whole song as much as I did the first part of it.
His Choice - "Cryin'" - The first half of this song was karaoke sounding to me. I get the feeling he did not try because he just knows he will make it to the finals.
Our conversation during this song was "I wonder what he sounds like when he is put on the spot to sing...you like "Happy Birthday" or something?

This one is a close call...I agree that all three are worthy of the finals. It was totally left up to America...however we could have all done with out Simon's plea to vote for Adam.

Niece's High School Graduation

2009-05-12T06:00:00.006-05:00

Saturday this beautiful young lady graduated high school. It was a special graduation through the Home Educators - you see Kristi (our niece) has been homeschooled for about 8 years now. I thought it fitting that each graduate was presented the dipolma by their parents...as they are the ones who did the educating.

It blows me away that this precious young lady is moving into a new phase of her life. She is beautiful and confident and spiritually sound. God will use Kristi in a mighty way.

Love you Kristi and we can't wait to see what God has planned for you! Uncle John and Aunt Alison

Extra Special Friday Afternoon

2009-05-11T06:00:00.005-05:00

Friday afternoon we got to spend some time with the "Following Footsteps" kids. I got to surprise Belle and pick her up from school and then later we drove out to get Luke from daycare and brought them back to our place to wait for their parents.

You can see that Belle uses the footbaord to show to flip over onto the bed and Luke followed suit. Then as we were brushing Belle's hair, Luke found the hair wax and wanted some, so the last picture of him is where he was showing me his spiked hair. We had a great time playing with them and snugglin' with them!

To ALL the ladies...

2009-05-10T09:45:00.003-05:00

To all the moms, soon-to-be-moms, foster moms, adoptive moms, wanna-be moms, aunts, spiritual moms (mentors) - Happy Mother's Day!

An Extra Special "Happy Mother's Day" to my Mom and my Sister! I love you both so much!

American Idol - "What a Set-Up" Week

2009-05-06T06:30:00.003-05:00

Knowing last week that this week was Rock and Roll, I knew that they (producers) were continuing on in their quest to have Adam win. However, after last night it was so apparent through the whole show, which is bad for Adam (at least in my opinion...since he will be locked into the way the AI folks want his first record) and not fair to the others either.

So the show starts...well at least at my house...I thought we were not going to be able to watch because our local Fox affiliate was having technical difficulties...like only hissing and no picture. We were getting a little upset. Oh...it came back on and looks like we just missed the filler at the beginning of the show and part of Adam's solo...which is fine with me.

Adam - "Whole Lotta Love" - Deferring to the hubs for opinion about this metal rock music since he prefers the rocky side of music..."Didn't like that". He is a man of few words (until the end of the show that is). The judges loved it and of course they did...he has won the show already...

Allison - "Cry, Baby" - I do love her hair...suits her perfectly and it sounds like from her interview that she and Adam had a "girl's day" at the salon. I thought it was perfectly Allison and she sounded great. I have always been a fan of her. And although I do not like the talking back to the judges...I felt as if Simon has been "testing" her confidence level...and last night she stood up for herself.

Thoughts so far: Both "rockers" got to sing first, which is appropriate and sad because this is NOT Kris or Danny's genre. So putting their duet and solos after Adam and Allison is pretty sad!

Kris and Danny - "Renegade" - Oh...I like the harmonies...they sound GREAT together! I expected nothing less...as music leaders in their churches they are probably used to singing all different parts with others. GREAT JOB guys! However, something just seems wrong with Danny. No sparkle in his eyes...Kris as well. Maybe it is not their week and they know they are going to be overshadowed...maybe they are tired...I'm not sure but both seemed distant last night.

Kris - "Come Together" - Great job...picked a song that he could put his signature "Kris Allen" sound on which is what Kara has loved all season...now she is not loving it? Simon has loved Kris more recently and now he doesn't like it as well? (refer to title of the post ... set-up...in Kris' case...set-up for "failure").

Danny - "Dream On" - I was saying during his practice time with Slash...Oh Danny you are going to have to really hit those 'screamy' notes. Worried about this risky song choice. Oh...that last scream...not good. Danny's eyes are so empty looking still. Maybe nerves? No final rehearsal time?

Thoughts up until now (this is where hubs starts getting quite a bit more wordy): Clearly they want Kris to be out of the competition tonight. Even after Danny's performance, the judges comments were not as harsh to him. Why at this stage of the competition would they choose a genre so suited for only two of the four contestants? This week would have been a perfect week to have them sing songs from the top 100 billboard songs this week. They would have been "relevant" (a word the judges use a lot) and would have allowed us to see with a current song what kind of album these contestants would make.

Adam and Allison - "Slow Ride" - First words from hubs "I can play this song really good on Guitar Hero!" I must say...that is true. When we had Thanksgiving dinner with friends this past year, this song we played many times by all playing Guitar Hero. Oh Adam...those striped pants...not good. It was what I expected from them.

So Adam got to sing first and last...hmm.

Final thoughts...this really sucks for Kris and Danny....basically they were thrown under the bus. I expected the Adam to overshadow everyone and he did. So really...it seems like AI producers "evil" plan is worked for them last night and not so subtly!

Check out BooMama and her Mr. Linky for other opinions!

Spoiled Rotten

2009-05-04T06:00:00.001-05:00

Normally we only see a lump under the covers, however, one day I looked into the bedroom to see that Gus had gotten under the covers and had his head sticking out like a person.

This dog doesn't know how good his has got it...his life is MUCH better life than he could have been...we adopted him from the humane society back in 2003. Enjoy!

American Idol - Top 5 - Music of the Rat Pack Era

2009-04-29T06:26:00.002-05:00

This is probably the best top 5 left on American Idol. Each year it seems like there is one person who just doesn't fit but not this year. They are all so very good, each with their own unique sound. I was wondering what mentor they would have this week...Jamie Foxx! He is the best mentor they have had and it relevant.

On to the Idols:

Kris - "Just the Way You Look Tonight" - Ok...Jamie Foxx loves you and what a great comment to make that he and Kris could work something out if AI doesn't pan out! Beautiful vocals. I like the R&B sound he put to this song and he was true to himself. EXCELLENT! Even if he wasn't from my town...he is one of my two favorites!

Allison - "Someone to Watch Over Me" - Oh wow her hair is gorgeous with the deeper read and the black! Also Happy Birthday! She looks beautiful and sang a ballad really really well. She had her distinctive voice yet showed us the softer side of Allison. VERY GOOD JOB!

Matt - "My Funny Valentine" - Oh...he has the hat on again, which means he should do well. WOW! The ending was FANTASTIC...the beginning was too low. I have to say I like his higher range better than the "full voice". Matt's only problem is that he does not appear to have much confidence in himself. Overall, GOOD JOB!

Danny - "Come Rain or Come Shine" - YES! He is back! This is what he needs to be singing. He came into his own tonight! I liked Kara's comment about him getting "the swagger" back...yes he did and with that performance you can tell he sees the end and wants it! EXCELLENT!

Up until this point I had thoroughly enjoyed hearing the true vocals of each finalist. Adam always makes me nervous...these songs are classic...do screw one up.

Adam - "Feeling Good" - I don't know this song. I must agree with Randy...and I have said from the beginning...over the top...too theatrical for my taste. He is always spot on with his vocals so that is not a complement anymore. And of course he did the tongue thing again which I think is reserved for Steven Tyler. The one thing I hate for him is that he seems like he is going to win this and he really doesn't need to. He will have to conform to what AI wants. It will do him better to get 2nd place.

My last note that I wrote last night was "This is the NIGHT OF THE VOCALS!" I think this theme was a great choice, with a great mentor, and a great time in the competition to have a night where the finalist really have to sing and show their vocals.

Click over to BooMama and get her take on American Idol. Also she has a Mr. Linky for all the other AI fans to leave their blog post reviews!

American Idol Goes Disco

2009-04-22T07:48:00.004-05:00

I was really worried about the theme "Disco" however, it turned out to be a pretty good night on American Idol.

Lil - "I'm Every Woman" - Karaoke AGAIN! The outfit was horrendous - when you got "back" there is nothing good about putting on a catsuit...even in black... was horrible! The attitude that she displays is just not lady-like and we could see several times where she gets it from as her mother (at least I think it was her mother) was mouthy in the audience as well. NEEDS TO GO HOME!

Kris - "She Works Hard for the Money" - I must admit that I was scared when he was talking to Ryan...however, he had his guitar so I felt like it might be cool...OH MY GOODNESS...it was AWESOME...best of the night! I know what the sound of his album will be and even if he wasn't from our town and church...we would still buy the album. Love his style!

Danny - "September" - He can sing anything and last night he was in the funky sing big zone! We liked it! Solid performance!

Allison - "Hot Stuff" - We love her as well...just does a 16-year old really need to be singing these lyrics. Thought it was a good performance...but that outfit! What is up with the stylists...she doesn't have to dress the part of rocker chick...she is the rocker chick without the bad outfits.

Adam - "If I Can't Have You" - Glad we did not have to endure the screaming this week. Thought it was really good...not his best performance...his voice was whiny sounding last night.
Oh Paula...dry up the waterworks!

Matt - "Stayin' Alive" - We discussed how it could be a disaster...lots of words to spit out in this song. I said...well he will do good because he has the cool JT hat on....and I was right. It was a little shaky at first, but I thought it was enough to keep him here this week.

Anoop - "Dim the Lights" - He has a pure voice and I like that. The first part was good then the groove came in and it just did nothing. We did, however, disagree with Simon about it being his worst...Simon...remember a little song called "Beat It" that Anoop sang? This is hopefully the end of the road for Anoop.

Hoping that Lil and Anoop go home!

Check out BooMama and others for more opinions!

I am My Own Colorist

2009-04-22T06:00:00.001-05:00

This picture was taken while I was being the subject along with the dogwood tree behind me for my friend practicing with a camera she is looking to get for her birthday. It is the only picture I have of the new hair color I am sporting this spring. She did a good job on the picture!

If I had known I would have gotten a good picture out of this, I would have put on some lipstick!

And my favorite trees in the spring is the dogwood tree. Here are some pictures of the dogwood tree out behind our building at work.

Did you know I have Famous Parents?

2009-04-21T06:22:00.002-05:00

This was for a "talent" show to raise funds for their youth mission trip at their church. The best part his they kinda looked like that back in their college years and when they got married!

Oh...I had tears rolling down my face watching this video!

Happy Sweet 16 Zak!

2009-04-19T09:50:00.007-05:00

14 years ago I met this little guy (my future nephew). That summer I was the "nanny" for him and his 4 year old sister. Zak and I formed a special bond that continues on today. You see, I watched them 5 days a week through the summer, however, Kristi went to Mothers Day Out 2 days a week and Zak only went one day. So I was with him 4 days a week and on our two days that it was just us most of the day...we played, watched Barney movies, went shopping and just had so much fun! These pictures were taken when I took the kids to my house. Look at that face! So precious!

Today that cute little boy turns 16 and I feel like...well, I feel old! This precious little blond boy is now 6 foot 5 inches tall. The thing that melts my heart is he still just gives the best hugs. He has never been "too cool" to give hugs and love on his family. He has a tender heart that is rare in 16 year old boys. And I must say that though the blond hair is no more I still think he is pretty cute! Happy Sweet 16 Zachary...my "favorite" nephew!

American Idol Recap - Off to the Movies

2009-04-15T06:56:00.005-05:00

Soundtracks from the "Big Screen"...who else is more "qualified" to be a guest mentor than Quentin Tarantino! (insert sarcasm) I'm not a fan! The only thing I can say is that he actually gives them feedback instead of saying "that sounds great".

You know we could really do without all the introductions and the talking that accompanies the introductions of the judges. Seems like if they are going to make the show 1 hour long then they could cut out some of the filler. I mean it was 7:15 and we had only heard one singer. Then we had to commercial break after each singer from about Matt on. Once again they ran over, but really what was left to see is the one thing I hate on AI..."the talking back" from the contestants and the recap.

I must say I was mostly underwhelmed last night. Randy Jackson cracks me up with his wording and since Ryan was channeling his inner-Randy last night I think I will too!

Allison - "Don't Want to Miss A Thing" - Seemed too low for her and I felt like she changed up the melody a little too much. She has been my favorite female this whole time. She has such a voice and control for someone that young. It was "just a'ight for me for her".

Anoop - "Everything I Do" - Go boy! That was probably his best performance so far. He was controlled and didn't loose focus when the crowd started clapping. His voice was beautiful tonight...one of my two favorites for this show! "For me for him"...it was great!

Adam - "Born to be Wild" - that about sums it up for me...wild and erratic. Seemed like he was trying a little to hard. To use one of Simon's words for contestants "precocious". The headbanging and jumping around really messed up his usual spot on vocal. "For me for him"...not his best.

Matt - "Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman" - His confidence in himself seems to be waning. I mean last week was EXCELLENT and three weeks ago was SUPERB, but it is the in between weeks that are not helping him. I felt bad for him cause it sounded like his voice was strained and tired when he crack going into his higher register. I still want him to do well! "I got mad love for Matt...but for me for him...just a'ight"

Danny - "Endless Love" - I totally disagree with Simon. I loved that he sang the 'original' version. It was so heartfelt and my comment last night was "Oh I LOVE when he sings from his heart". This performance was my favorite from last night! However, I missed the glasses! "For me for him...it was hott"

Kris - "Falling Slowly" - I had never heard this song. I have heard of the movie either. I love to hear Kris sing. I think my problem was that because I didn't know the song it was hard to get into it. His voice is pure and his upper register tonight was very good. "For me for him...strange song choice, but sang it really well"

Lil - "The Rose" - My feelings are the same as last week...I think she needs to go home. She is not getting better or taking the judges advice. Oh the talking back!! She was really fired up with her comments to Simon and that kind of attitude will not take you far. "For me for her...stop talking back...not good, not good"

Even with only two judges commenting they ran over 3 minutes. Like I said, get rid of some of the filler/fluff at the beginning and we will have more time. I just don't think it should take 10-12 minutes before the first contestant sings.
Once again, I was not impressed this week. I'm not sure what next week holds, but I hope it will be better.

For more recaps check out BooMama and all others who link their recap to her's each week!

Praise You Lord

2009-04-12T11:29:00.003-05:00

"Oh Praise the One who paid my debt and raised this life up from the dead"

If it weren't for what Jesus did on the cross and through His Resurection I would not be where I am today! Today I am PRAISING HIM!

ABC's of Me

2009-04-09T06:18:00.002-05:00

Received this from my sister in email form, but thought it would be fun for a blog post. Enjoy and if you feel like it, copy this and post with your answers on your blog!

A - Age: 29
B - Baseball Game or Ballet: If Camryn (my 7 year old niece) is dancing the ballet I’d choose that…otherwise a Baseball game
C - Chore you hate: cleaning bathrooms
D - Dream Vacation: Anywhere that is paid for by someone else (mountains, beach, etc.)
E - Easter candy: Jolly Rancher jelly beans (only time of the year I eat them)
F - Favorite Flowers: Gerber Daisies
G - Games: Taboo, Cranium, Newlywed game, Hand and Foot
H - Height: 5’7”
I - Instrument you play: I can play enough piano to learn my own part of a song.
J - Job title: Medical Management Analyst II
K - Kindergarten Memory: forging my Mom’s signature on a note from the teacher…it wasn’t even a bad note. (not smart….my mom taught at the school I was at…can you imagine the signature of a 5 year old?? Got a spanking at school from momma for that one as I should have...lying is a spanking offense)
L - Luxury you live without: professional hair coloring (although…when I can pay $20 tops to do it myself depending my choice of color and/or highlights, why in the world would I pay at the least $75 to have it done?)
M - Mexican food choice: Chicken Fajita nachos…no veggies
N - Nickname: Al (only my sister calls me that)
O - Overnight hospital stay: Not one for myself (stayed the night we two different friends whose hubbies needed the night to be with their kids)
P - Pet Peeve: outdated signs left up
Q - Quotes you like: “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference”
R - Rainforest or Redwoods: Redwoods (I guess)
S - Siblings: my lovely sister who I am so proud of Andrea
T - Television favorites: American Idol, Biggest Loser, Dancing with the Stars, House
U - Ultimate dessert: hot brownie with ice cream (add chocolate and caramel sauce with nuts on top)
V - Vegetable you dislike: asparagus
W - Ways you run late: not getting up in time
X - X-rays you've had: teeth and one after a girl rear-ended me in high school
Y - Yummy food you make: I make lots of yummy food…learned to cook from my Mom who is a great cook.
Z - Zoo animal that's your favorite: tigers

When it could have been so good---AI recap

2009-04-08T07:02:00.002-05:00

Well I was looking forward to American Idol seeing that I love the 80's music. However, last night was disappointing. Here are my thoughts:

Danny Gokey - 1980 - “Stand By Me” - I have liked Danny from the beginning and this performance was another solid one in my book. Not a fan of this pair of spectacles. I prefer the funkier colored rims.

Kris Allen - 1985 - “All She Wants To Do Is Dance” - Funky! I would HATE to have to stand on that little stage with all the people so close to me. I will vote for him and buy his CD. This was not his best performance, but I did not think it was as horrible as the judges made it out to be. Every idol is entitled to an "off" night. Good thing for Kris...it was on a night where there were so many worse performances. Love Kris...he is from our praise band at church! And his mom and I work at the same company.

Lil Rounds - 1984 - “What’s Love Got To Do With It” - Well I'm glad we cleared up the confusion of her name. My words were "I think she is just a good church singer". She has not impressed me yet. I am totally done with Lil. If she truly was taking the judges advice then the critique would not be the same each week...AND we would not have to hear her canned response of "I promise to...blah, blah, blah"

Anoop Desai - 1986 - “True Colors” - WOW!! That sweater was lime green! Much better performance than last week...but his performances are like a yo-yo. He has a beautiful voice, but I doubt I would be buying an album of his.

Scott McIntyre - 1985 - “The Search Is Over” - Not impressed AGAIN! There really was no point in the guitar because I think he played/strummed it about 5 times. Every week I say STOP TALKING BACK to the judges! Interesting that he said this was his "punk side".

Allison Iraheta - 1992 - “I Can’t Make You Love Me” - This girl is AMAZING! Every week it is hard to believe she is 16 years old. She is one of my favs from the beginning! 2nd best performance of the night in my book!

Matt Giraud - 1985 - “Part-Time Lover” - ROCKED IT OUT! Da bomb..."blew it out da box" (sorry last night we were all channeling our inner-Randy). Love the hat, loved the vocals, loved the dancing...loved MATT!

Adam Lambert - 1982 "Mad World" - And since we were watching live, we got to see his performance. I personally am not a fan of Adam. I get so tired of having to listen and watch him think he is Steven Tyler (the tongue and screeching). Now I love me some Aerosmith, but Adam is just not there yet. Usually he is so over-the-top on the performance and the screeching vocals that I can't stand it. Except to say that this guy has never missed a note...EVER (until one of the last ones last night). In fact several of us heard it and commented. He did really good last night and I loved the fact he didn't go into his Steven Tyler impersonation. It was a pure solid performance.

Top three last night for me - Matt, Allison and Adam
Middle - Danny and Kris
Bottom - Scott, Lil and Anoop

I think it is time for Scott to go home only because he is just not in the league of the others. However, Lil could go home because she is not improving at all.

Check out BooMama and all the other recaps at the end of her post.

Thanks for praying

2009-04-02T06:37:00.002-05:00

An update to the post below:

Pam was able to go late yesterday evening. She had a tilt table test done to see if they could induce a fainting spell. It was determined she has syncope. She will have to cut out the caffeine and start drinking more water. She needs to up her salt intake. If she feels a spell coming on she is to lay down and elevate her legs. After 4 weeks if she has not had anymore spells she will be able to drive again.
We are praising the Lord for this type of diagnosis when it could have been something so much worse. Thanks for saying a prayer for my friend. Please continue to lift her up as she has some changes to make in her diet and her "go, go, go" lifestyle.

Calling all Prayer Warriors

2009-03-31T09:24:00.003-05:00

I wanted to ask you all to pray for my friend Pam. On Sunday afternoon she and her family (husband, daughter, son and each kid had a friend) were climbing Pinnacle Mountain here in Little Rock. A little more than half way up the mountain (the kids were on ahead of her and Mark, her husband) she told Mark she felt like she would pass out. He had her sit down and said he would get the kids and then come meet her. He started up and got about 10 yards away…looked back and saw her “slithering” off the rock. She was in a Grand Mal Seizure. Scared him to death. They have been married 23 years…dated since they were teenagers. He has never seen her have a seizure. She had them when she was a young child.
They called 911 and they came up and took her down the mountain and took her to big Baptist. She is still in the hospital and will be there through at least tomorrow. She had an EEG last night and is having an echocardiogram today and some other test as well. Tomorrow she is having another test. Her blood pressure is really low right now and she has a heart monitor. They are just doing all these test to see what may have caused the seizure.

They have already told her she will not be able to drive for about 6 months. God was watching out for her because she was low to the ground. Only has some scratches and bumps on one side of her face. Also there was a lady coming up the mountain when this happened that was a first responder. She does have a fractured sternum because Mark was doing CPR on her because he was not really sure what was happening and she was blue around the mouth. He was trying to get her some air before the ambulance arrived to get her.

She is a very important part of my life right now and I am praying that God completely heal her body. Her family's names so that you can pray specifically are Mark (husband), Faith (11 year old daughter) and Luke (8 year old son).

All Comes Full Circle

2009-03-25T14:10:00.002-05:00

The other day I picked up the Michael English book "The Prodigal Comes Home - My Story of Failure and God's Redemption". I have read it before, but his testimony of how God works in his life is so good...I thought I'd read it again. Back in the early 90's he was one of my FAVORITE singers. He sang with the Gaither Vocal Band and then did a couple of solo albums upon Bill Gaither's prompting.

Most people know he had an extra-marital affair and that cost him his Christian music career and Dove Awards. In this book he tells of his continual focus on the world and not on God. He became addicted to pain killers. In 1997, I remember he was trying to come back on the Christian Music scene and my sister-in-law took me and my neice to a concert of his in Sherwood. Little did I know at the time he was still struggling in the bonds of addiction.

Anyway...his book and CD called "The Prodigal Comes Home" tell of God's Redeeming power in Michael's life.

I checked out his website because last spring he was in concert with Avalon and came to Conway, but I was not able to go. I just wanted to see if he would be around here anytime soon...and lo and behold...guess what??? In January he became part of the Gaither Vocal Band again!!! He, Mark Lowery and David Phelps join Bill Gaither and Wes Hampton to form a quintet! Oh...I can't wait to hear all those voices sing together.

I just think his story is amazing...so glad to see what Christ has done in Michael English's life!

#1 is Obviously True (Google Game - My Needs)

2009-03-05T22:50:00.002-06:00

Billie posted her "needs" on her blog and facebook. It thought it was pretty funny...so I tried it.
This was kinda weird to figure out but it is kind funny. I typed "Alison Needs" in 'Google' and here are the first 10 sentences that came up that read 'Alison needs...'

1. Alison needs ...a blog topic (obviously...however, I never promised I'd blog everyday)

2. Alison needs...to learn how to pose in pictures (uh...this is a family friendly post)

3. Alison needs...a vacation (would love one)

4. Alison needs...to argue something like this: heat exchangers are not required (ok...not sure what a heat exchanger is exactly...but obviously I need to argue that they are not required)

5. Alison needs...nap badly (yes...yes she does)

6. Alison needs...needs to get a bigger tank for her frogs (what does google know...I HATE frogs!)

7. Alison needs...a tech makeover (I actually enjoy a tech makeover)

8. Alison needs...to get crackin' if I'm gonna have alot done before Pat gets home!! (my brother-in-law is coming...oh man...I'm glad Google knew about this before me!)

9. Alison needs...to change (yes...I agree...but I'm working on it)

10. Alison needs...a home (well my apartment is my home...I think I'm good)

Because I can't say it any better...

2009-03-03T07:07:00.004-06:00

The Bachelor...I have lots of thoughts...I'm just not really good putting them all down. However, Sophie at BooMama wrote this post and I could not have said it better myself.

Another funny recap (of not just The Bachelor) is PrimeTime in No Time. Each morning you can go here and listen to this guy's recap of the popular (or some ridiculous) shows from the night before! Enjoy!

And then there is always Chris Harrison's take on the show!

Update: Here is the entire interview on Jimmy Kimmel last night. As Kelly pointed out in my comments it was dead on!

Helpin' my Sista Out!

2009-02-23T17:30:00.002-06:00

Not that I think lots of people read my blog...but I thought I would help my sister out. She is trying to sell a beautiful wedding ring set.

Click here to check it out!

A Blessing

2009-02-22T16:32:00.003-06:00

This past week I was blessed to be able to purchase a car from my company...the perfect timing, perfect price (paid for!!!), perfect car for me! Prasie the Lord...HE is the one who blesses His children!

6 years ago today...

2009-02-14T21:44:00.009-06:00

This little dog became part of our family...

As you can see Gus was a little scared of his friend Sissy Girl. That changed very quickly...

It is hard to imagine life without him. Although there were mixed feelings about getting a dog...I am now told we could not get another dog after Gus...because there will never be another dog like our Gussie Boy!

4th folder...4th picture

2009-02-12T21:58:00.003-06:00

Thought I'd get in on all the fun...

This is a picture of Isabella when she spent the night with us one night. The "live" canine is our Gus...who doesn't appear very happy...He HATES a camera. Then the "non-animated" canine is Belle's Gus. Our Gus was laying in the chair so Belle put her Gus in the chair with him and covered them up. It thought it was precious, so I had her stand beside them to get a picture. Of course, my "child" was not being as sweet as Belle and her "child".

We had a good time that night!

Encouragement

2009-02-02T09:14:00.000-06:00

Isaiah 41:10 & 13 (Today's New International Version)
10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
13 For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, 'Do not fear; I will help you'."

Praying for the Stamps Family

2009-01-17T15:28:00.002-06:00

Click here to view Kelly's Blog.

This is a blog I read daily..."met" her through another friend's blog. The internet is a wonderful thing...this precious miracle and her family are being prayed for probably more people than we can ever know!

A Word for Today

2009-01-16T06:50:00.003-06:00

Psalm 25:1-10
"1 O Lord, I give my life to you.
2 I trust in you, my God! Do not let me be disgraced, or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat.
3 No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced, but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others.
4 Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow.
5 Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you.
6 Remember, O Lord, your compassion and unfailing love, which you have shown from long ages past.
7 Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth. Remember me in the light of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O Lord.
8 The Lord is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray.
9 He leads the humble in doing right, teaching them his way.
10 The Lord leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all who keep his covenant and obey his demands."

Bullet Points....I love them!

2009-01-14T07:05:00.002-06:00

Most people that I work with and have ever gotten an email from me that contains a list, could easily figure out I love bullet points. They are short bits of information and are easy to get the meat of the information to the reader.

So yesterday, I was checking some blogs and read one of my Premier sister's blog regarding Prayer Cards. Knowing my love of bullet points, this made it simple and a way that I will remember specific prayer needs for different areas/people in my life. Check it out at bugsandsunshine.

Between Beth Moore's idea for writing down scriptures that speak specific truths for your life and her challenge of memorizing 2 scriptures a month for 2009 and now Anna's Prayer Card idea...the index cards are being introduced back into my life...which hasn't happened since the last research paper I did in college. But now I think I'll actually like the index card! ;-)

I'm Still Here...

2009-01-12T10:24:00.006-06:00

...WOW! It has been a while. I am still here. We have just been pretty busy since the new year. For the last two weekends, we have been watching our nieces and nephews while their parents were having some time cruising the Caribbean. I must say...it was fairly easy because three of the four children are pretty self-sufficient (ages 12, 15 and 17)...and then there is the 2-year-old! I'm exhausted! He has a t-shirt that says "My parents are Exhausted"...I wanted to put a sticker over the "parents" and put "aunt". It was fun...especially visiting with my oldest niece about her life which is going to change soon...she will be going to college. My first job at 16 years old was watching the two oldest children when they were 4 and 2...what a difference!

Also, Friday night we enjoyed Luke's 3rd Birthday party! And Saturday...we celebrated my niece's 7th birthday at the skating rink. After reading this, you will understand why her mother is NOT having anymore skating parties!

I have some pictures I'll be adding to this post once I get a few minutes to download them from my camera.

Hopefully...I'll be back on here more often. Hope your 2009 is going good so far!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T19:00:00.002-06:00

WOW! It is hard to believe that 2008 is over and we have begun a new year. I spent a lot of time yesterday reflecting over last year. In a lot of ways it was a very hard year...however, through those trials God has shown Himself to me in ways I did not know before. For that I am grateful!

In the past I have not taken time to look back over a year to see where I have grown and where I want to grow. However, because of this past year and the Celebrate Recovery group I have become a part of, I realized that is a very important thing to do. We should take time to reflect and see where God has done His work through our trials.

So as I reflected back on 2008, I have seen growth in my spiritual life and I tried to write down some goals for this next year. These goals are in all areas of my life.

My prayer this year is that God will continue to show Himself to me and I that I would daily give Him the control!

Galatians 3:3 (New Century Version)
"You began your life in Christ by the Spirit. Now are you trying to make it complete by your own power? That is foolish."

Hip Hip Horray for Christmas Vacation!

2008-12-23T06:28:00.002-06:00

This past weekend we went to Branson for our Kerr Family Christmas. Last year we rented a house in Branson and it was so fun we decided to do it again. However this year our house was even nicer and I believe we all had a great time.

After we got up there I realized I had forgotten my camera. So I have not evidence that we even had a Kerr Family Christmas. Well I do have some evidence - a 6'5" 15-year-old teenager on my couch the last two nights. You see I used to babysit this precious little blond boy...who has in the past 15 years become my nephew and is head and shoulders taller than me. BUT he is the sweetest teenage boy you will meet. Since our lives are going different directions we don't get to visit with our nieces and nephews very much and Zak wanted to come stay with us a few days on his Christmas break. So, he is getting to enjoy our much quieter slower pace than his house that is full of an older sister, a younger sister, a foster sister and a 2-year-old brother. I believe he has enjoyed himself.

He is going home this evening since we are fast approaching Christmas! If my niece's get the pictures they took out on Facebook, I'll pull some of them over to this post. But for now...just know we had a great time with our Kerr family (as always)!

Monday Morning Update

2008-12-15T12:46:00.001-06:00

Monday afternoon/evening update:

Mimmie has been moved from CVICU to a room!!!! She is doing much better tonight. She has had some ensure and the Phyicial Therapist was to have her walking down the hallway again tonight.

Update from Momma (which she got from her sister):

The news is better this morning on Mother. Praise the Lord! She has been up in her chair, eaten some Insure chocolate pudding and a saltine cracker and has walked all the way down the hall pushing a wheel chair! This is great since yesterday she could hardly get from the bed to the chair without getting dizzy. They are to take the catheter out today also. Her heart is still in A Fib, but she is sounding more perky and is not nauseated! Yeah!!!! Thanks for your prayers on her behalf! They are working!

Weekend Update

2008-12-15T06:23:00.002-06:00

Here are the e-mail updates from Momma. As you can tell there are lots of ups and downs with recovery from this surgery. I ask that you pray that today they will see great improvements!

Saturday:
Well, if there is one thing I have learned today it is that nothing is definite when it comes to patients in CVICU and a patient's status can change in a matter of minutes. Mother did not get to move to the step down unit as we had thought she would. She began to have fluid build up around her lung which made her breathing difficult. They put her back on the lasix and canceled the move to the third floor. She did well all day while I was there. She ate pretty good until the evening meal. In her words it was YUCK! I ended up going to get her some chicken nuggets and a Jr. Frosty from Wendy's so she would eat a little. Around 7 PM her nurse came in to say he was going to put her back on the Ameoderone drip...her heart had gotten out of sinus rhythm again. So, I am not sure what tomorrow will hold. I am just asking that you pray for her to get a good night's rest. She didn't rest much at all last night since she was unable to breathe well. Also, please pray that the fluid build up around her lungs will subside and that her heart will get back in sinus rhythm. I will send out another note tomorrow as I know anything further. I was sure hoping to get to send out good news from the step down unit, but I guess that will come later.

Sunday:
Well, today has not been a very good day for Mother. To me this has been the worst day thus far as far. She looks very weak eyed and lethargic. She has been nauseated most of the day which keeps her from eating. They are giving her meds for the nausea but she is still experiencing that feeling from time to time. They gave her a concentrated protein drink to try to keep her strength up. She was able to hold it down but has just not felt good at all today. She has napped most of the day. Her kidney output is still doing good. They continue to give her lasix for the fluid and ameoderone to try to get her heart to convert to sinus rhythm. It is still in A Fib. I am about to go back up to sit with her for a while. I have to leave for home around 5 PM. Please be in prayer that the nausea will go away and that she will begin to eat. She has to have nurishment to gain her strength so she can get out of CVICU.
Thanks for your prayers. We are really needing them today!

PRAISE THE LORD!!

2008-12-12T08:37:00.002-06:00

Friday Morning update from Momma:

Good morning to all of you and Praise the Lord!
I just called to check on Mother from Sherwood (I am back at work) and she is doing very well this morning. They said she was alert, talking, her vital signs are good, her kidneys are working and she is back in sinus rhythm! What an answer to prayer! I think she has turned the corner and will soon be moved to step-down and then home. Thanks so much for all your prayers and notes!

Also, on Sunday night when we all went down to be with Mimmie, Momma got this picture of Andrea, Mimmie, Camryn and me. I had to share!

Updates on Grandmothers

2008-12-11T06:29:00.003-06:00

As referenced here, my Mimmie had heart valve replacement surgery on Monday. Everything went great with the surgery. Recovery is going slow. This is the latest information I have from Momma:
Subject: Wednesday evening update on Mother
Well, today has been somewhat of an out of it day for Mother. They did get her heart back in sinus rhythm, but she was given morphine for the pain she was experiencing and it has built up in her body causing her to be knocked out most of the day. She is also talking out of her head and hasn't really known us when we go in to see her. They have given her a drug to counteract the morphine so once that takes affect maybe she will be more alert. We have not gone in to see her too many times today so she can rest and hopefully sleep this medicine off. It seems that when we do go in it gets her all riled up and then it takes a while to get her calmed down. When we left around 5:30 she was resting peacefully. She is on 40% oxygen still, vital signs are all good and her heart is doing as it should. They are thinking if she progresses well tomorrow that she may get to move to the step-down unit by Friday and maybe go home by Sunday or Monday. Please pray with us that she will be able to come out of the affects of the morphine and be more at herself tomorrow so she can move to the next phase of the recovery process.
Again, we can't thank you enough for the calls, notes and prayers for her.
Hugs!
Alicia

Update on my Daddy's mother (my Memaw):
I talked to Daddy on Tuesday and he had called his parents to let them know that Mimmie's surgery went well and to check on his mother. She is doing much better. They have continued to adjust her medication and it is really working well. She even went with Pawpaw to visit with folks at Southeastern Bible College (where Pawpaw worked for most of his life). They visited for about 3 hours and Memaw was very clear. Daddy said he talked to her for 10 minutes or so and she seemed really clear to him as well and Pawpaw sounded less tense. So thank you for your prayers for her as well.

All of my grandparents have always told me "getting old is for the birds"...I tend to agree!

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas...

2008-12-03T16:58:00.006-06:00

I couldn't hold out any longer. I was thinking of waiting for BooMama's Christmas Tour of Homes to post the Christmas decorations that have been up for a while, but I just couldn't do it, Captain! I'll just make sure to link back to this post on December 15th!

So welcome to our home! If you were here in person I'd offer you some Spiced Tea...and I'd probably make some No Bake cookies. So grab a mug of spiced tea...a couple of cookies and join the next tour, beginning in 5...4...3...2...1

Welcome!

Here are our windows decorated with Snowflake lights and my cute decoration of snowmen!

Once you are inside the living room/Kitchen/Office/Laundry Room combo (it is a one bedroom apartment people...work with me), you will find our nativity scene and some angels on our entertainment center which is to your left after you come in the front door.

Directly to your right in front of the window is our Christmas Tree...Thank goodness I purchased a skinny tree in 2006 on the day after Thanksgiving shopping trip. A fat one (I mean "full" one) would have never fit. There are pictures of our 2008 Ornaments as well...Christmas Beagle for Gus, glittery penguin for me and Hoopin' in up Santa for John.

The stockings are hung on the wall behind the couch and under the wreath with care!

Right next to the entertainment center is this DVD holder (deguised as a bookcase)...it has our collections of Santas and snowmen.Moving forward into the Kitchen...look up above the cabinets...

Now moving to the bedroom...on the armoire...

Snowman village on the chest of drawers...

This cute little sign was purchased with the 40% off coupon for Hobby Lobby a couple of weeks ago.

I think that about sums up the tour...please leave your mugs in the sink on your way out! Merry Christmas to all! I hope that this year, everyone takes time to enjoy old family traditions and make new ones. Also, remember the reason we celebrate this time of year...our Savior!

Holiday Recap

2008-11-29T14:35:00.006-06:00

This year was different than any other Thanksgiving. John and I spent Thanksgiving day with our CR family. It was a nice relaxing day visiting with our friends and their families. We played Guitar Hero and their Wii. We had a plethera of food: Turkey, Dressing, Mashed Potatoes, BBQ pork, slaw, Alfredo pasta, rolls, cranberry sauce, sweet potato pie, apple pie and no bake cookies. Here are a few pictures from our Thanksgiving:

So on Thanksgiving day, we are grateful for each of our families and our CR family as well!

On Friday, we slept in and then watch the Razorbacks. When it looked dismal we went to Little Rock to our favorite movie theater to see a movie. Here is a picture of Gus watching the Hogs with John.

Because we have had our Christmas decorations up for 2 weeks (be watching for the pictures) we have really gotten to relax and enjoy this Thanksgiving holiday!

Heart Surgery

2008-11-26T07:25:00.002-06:00

After running tests on Monday, the doctors believe that all the problems Mimmie is having are confined to the heart and that surgery is the best way to fix it. So they have talked with the surgeon and they are doing the surgery on Monday, December 8th. Mimmie will be going home today and taking it easy until the surgery. Pray for strength during this time. Also, be covering the surgeon, doctors and nurses in prayer as well.

I've been Tagged

2008-11-24T06:17:00.002-06:00

I've been photo tagged by Billie. Here are the rules:

Players look into their photo files, choose the sixth folder and then the sixth photo in that folder. Post that picture, and tell the story behind it.

Here is Mine:

This picture is of Gus and Sissy playing tug of war with one of Sissy's toys. And that precious little foot is Belle's. She was probably laughing at the dogs or getting on to them for fighting!

This is an easy one to do and fun to see what picture ends up as your sixth picture in your sixth folder.

I tag:

Sunday afternoon update on Mimmie

2008-11-24T06:13:00.002-06:00

My mom will return to El Dorado this morning to be there for the CT scan of Mimmie's chest/heart area. If that test does not reveal enough information for Dr. Bhott, he will also do an echogram. After he gets the results from the tests he will conference with the surgeon as to what would be the best plan of action for Mimmie. He said he is still leaning toward surgery but wanted to get these other test done and allow for the medication to work before making a definite decision. Mimmie is doing well. She is in good spirits and at peace with whatever they decide. She got to take a shower yesterday and wash her hair so she feels like a new woman! She is sleeping well at night but not in the bed...she sleeps in the recliner. When she lays flat down on the bed it causes her to not be able to breathe.
We are certainly thankful for all your prayers and notes. Having all that prayer support is making this much easier. Dr. Bhott is a strong believer and appreciates your prayers for him as well. He is seeking the Lord's guidance as to what would be the best treatment for Mimmie. God was truly good to give us a doctor who is a strong Christian.

Further updates on my Grandmothers

2008-11-20T06:08:00.003-06:00

THRUSDAY MORNING UPDATE:

The doctor has decided not to jump to having a major surgery. Mimmie will be treated with medication for now and see how she does and use surgery as a last resort.

This is the e-mail I received from Momma on Wednesday night:

Thank you so much for your encouraging calls and notes. You don't know how much it means to all of us to know you are holding us up in prayer. We have found out that they do have Mother down for surgery on Friday, but they have not given us a definite time. We will find that out tomorrow. Mother is very much at peace about having it done. She said she was a little anxious but that is normal when you are going in for such a major surgery. However, she is ready to have it and get on to the recovery process. I hope to find out early tomorrow what time they will take her in so those of you that have expressed a desire to be here can make your plans.
Again, thanks to all of you for your prayer support on her behalf.

On another note, please be in prayer for Norman's mom too. He called to tell me that her periods of being unaware of who his dad is are lengthening. She was agitated with him for about an hour and a half today, would not take her medicine and kept asking for Mr. G to find Leon (Norman's dad) and bring him back. They do have an appointment with their family doctor tomorrow. Please pray that he will be able to give Dad some insight as to what they need to do regarding her care. Also, Norman may have to go out to meet with his dad, brother and sister to make some plans about care and possibly moving her to a care facility. That will be so hard on all of them. Please pray for wisdom and strength to do what is best for Mrs. Gillaspie.

Update on Mimmie

2008-11-19T06:37:00.004-06:00

Wednesday afternoon update:
Hello Family and Friends,
Just wanted to let you all know where we stand with Mother. The cardiologist came in this morning to talk with us. He had talked extensively with the surgeon (after the surgeon had talked with Mother last night) and they both agree the only way for her to get better is to have the aortic valve replaced. She has an irregular heart beat and her heart is weakening so t"he treating this with medicine" option is out. He said her quality of life would only digress which would basically mean she would be confined to a bed or chair. Previous to her going to the doctor on Monday it was it wore her out to unload the dryer or tie her shoes. So, she told Dr. Bhott, that she was ready to have the surgery. She is at peace with this decision and feels whatever happens is the Lord's will. Right now I am waiting to talk with the surgeon, Dr. Wilson, to get the final details, but Dr. Bhott said that he told him he was planning to do the surgery this Friday. She will remain in the hospital until they do the surgery so they can keep her stable. When I get the chance to talk with Dr. Wilson and get further info, I will pass it on to all of you.
We all appreciate the calls, visits, and notes from you. I know that is the reason we have such a peace and calm about all of this...your prayers are giving us strength from the Lord.
Thanks to all of you at school for taking up the slack for me. I appreciate you.
Love and hugs!
Alicia

Here is the update from my mom regarding Mimmie's condition:

We finally got to meet with the Cardiologist regarding the next step for Mother. He confirmed that the aorta valve is not functioning properly and is basically wearing out. He said they are not going to make a hasty decision about what to do next. He is consulting with other well known cardiologist in state and out of state to get their opinions on what they would do. He did say he was going to treat her as if she were his own mom which I appreciated. What would he prescribe for her if she were in that state. He wants to have a concensus of opinions before they decide what they should do. They will consider her age and other health issues in making a decision. He did say the good news is that she does not have any other problems with blockage in the coronary arteries. If she did, it would not be a hard decision. They would go in and fix the arteries and the valve at the same time. However, since that is not an issue, it creates a more difficult decision, because this is not an easy surgery to recover from. He said it would take maybe a year for her to gain full recovery. Mother did ask what he would do if they did not do the surgery and he told her they would treat it with medicine. But that it is like a faucett that is clogged up...it will still work but it will not work properly or at full capacity until the clog is removed. She does have some calcium build up in the mitral valve but nothing to worry about. So, she will be in the hospital over night and then I am assuming she will come home tomorrow. Then she will wait to hear from Dr. Bhott who will call her in after he has gathered all the other opinions.
I appreciate your prayers. Mother feels good about what he has told her and is willing to do what he feels is best for her. Dr. Bhott was very open and honest with her and said before he left that he would be seeking the Lord's help in this decision as well. That made me feel very good!

We appreciate your prayers and ask that you continue to pray for all involved (Patient, family, and doctors) and that the decisions that are made will be in Mimmie's best interest!

Asking for Prayer for my Grandmothers

2008-11-18T06:24:00.003-06:00

I am asking for prayer for my Memaw (Genevieve Gillaspie). She had a lung infection and was very confused and agitated. I got word yesterday that the infection is clearing up but that they had diagnosed her with Dementia. Then I heard from my Daddy last night that for about 30 minutes she did not know who Pawpaw was, she told him to call her when Leon gets home. It just breaks my heart and can’t imagine being married to someone for 60 years and then that person not know who I am. Please continue to lift up Leon and Genevieve Gillaspie through this time. Also their kids (Norman, Tricia, and Paul) grandchildren (Alison, Andrea, Christiana, Anthony Benjamin, Joseph, Ashely, Josh, Nick and Jake) and great-grandchild (Camryn).

Also, my mom got a call yesterday that they were taking my Mimmie (Thalia Curtis) to the hospital because she had a heaviness on her chest and was short of breath. They did an EKG and it showed a narrowing of the Aorta, so they are going to do a heart cath in the morning early to determine exactly what the problem is. Her primary care doctor said that the EKG tests showed that the aorta valve is not functioning as it should which is therefore causing the blood to build up in her lungs thus causing the shortness of breath. Hopefully it will something they can stint. If so, they will do it while they are in there. If not, we are talking bypass surgery. Please remember Joe and Thalia Curtis and my mom and her sister (Alicia and Shelia).

What Season Are You In?

2008-11-13T07:34:00.002-06:00

One of the first things that I found to be important for me to is to know that we go through different seasons in life. This is just like in the vineyards.

There is a season of newness where the vines are being planted and sprouting all kinds of new buds for grapes and leaves. There is pruing to be done in this season.

There is a season of growth where there are leaves in full bloom and where the grapes are growing and the fruit is multiplying.

There is the season of harvest when the fruit has come to fullness and it is time to take that fruit and use it for it's purpose.

Then there is the season of dormancy. This comes after harvest and the vines are dorment for a time due to the winter. There is not growth that can be seen on the outside. This is also the time where there is heavy duty pruning that is done by the farmers. They really get in there and cut off vines that are dead and cut back the fruitful vines so that they can produce even more fruit the next season.

I know in my life...I have been through this process many times just like the seasons come each year. I think it is important not to get discouraged if you do not feel like you are growing and producing fruit like you want. God's timing is perfect and His ways are higher than ours. Just like the seasons, you will see much growth at some points in your life and then there are the times of dormancy (after harvest) where there is a lot of work to do in your life. This is a painful process, but a very necessary process. I have learned I have to let go the control I try to have and let God be in complete control.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-14
A Time for Everything

1 For everything there is a season,
a time for every activity under heaven.
2 A time to be born and a time to die.
A time to plant and a time to harvest.
3 A time to kill and a time to heal.
A time to tear down and a time to build up.
4 A time to cry and a time to laugh.
A time to grieve and a time to dance.
5 A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones.
A time to embrace and a time to turn away.
6 A time to search and a time to quit searching.
A time to keep and a time to throw away.
7 A time to tear and a time to mend.
A time to be quiet and a time to speak.
8 A time to love and a time to hate.
A time for war and a time for peace.

9 What do people really get for all their hard work? 10 I have seen the burden God has placed on us all. 11 Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end. 12 So I concluded there is nothing better than to be happy and enjoy ourselves as long as we can. 13 And people should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God.
14 And I know that whatever God does is final. Nothing can be added to it or taken from it. God’s purpose is that people should fear him. 15 What is happening now has happened before, and what will happen in the future has happened before, because God makes the same things happen over and over again.

Abide In Him

2008-11-11T06:57:00.006-06:00

Just last week, I added the sitemeter to my blog. I like to look at it see how someone got onto my blog. There have been several people just in the last few days that have at least clicked on the blog because when you google the words "abide in him" my blog will come up in the results. This really got me thinking about the fact the there are people out there searching this subject and that I could use my blog to show what I learned through Bible study, life experiences and other books on this subject.
Over the next few posts I am going to try to communicate all of this to you. I am praying that the Lord will use this as a tool to help minister to others.

To start off this "series" I'll begin with John 15:1-11 (English Standard Version)

1"I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser.
2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.
3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you.
4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.
5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.
6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned.
7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.
8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.
9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love.
10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love.
11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full".