Ashton and the New Baby

Ashton is so cute with the whole big brother thing. He is so excited. I use to get tired of Michael when I was pregnant with Ashton always talking to my tummy. Well, guess what? Ashton does the same thing. We lay together on the couch and he wants to hold the baby. It is crazy because you can't even tell I am pregnant. He wants to know when I am going to get a big tummy like Mrs. Betsy. Who would have thought that a two year old would understand this much? It is crazy.

Anyways, I am getting excited. I have been looking online for sewing patterns for maternity clothes. You can call me cheap because that is what I am. I don't see the point in paying $20 for a shirt or a pair of pants that you will wear for less than 9 months. To tell you the truth, I don't pay that much for clothes that I can wear for years. I just don't see the point, when I can make them for much less. So I can't wait until I get a paycheck so I can start making clothes. I love to sew.

I will keep you posted. Right now, I am in the process of getting a doctor in Monticello. I want the hospital to be close when I go into labor. I hate to drive or ride a long distance, so I know I won't want to when I am 9 months pregnant. Any suggestions?

YES I AM

The answer is yes! I took the test today. There is no doubt. Both lines were dark.

I used this picture, because Michael didn't want me to take the test. I could see myself being about 9 months pregnant and Michael would say we are not going to buy a test.

I am happy even though this baby is a surprise.

I Don't Know

The answer is I don't know. I have just gotten back from Little Rock and have not had time. If I am not, then I am having all the symptoms because I think I am. My luck, I am. But it doesn't matter. We will work through it all. Maybe tomorrow I will get the nerve up to get another test. But after three test, I am hesitant to buy another. I have prayed about it. If I am, then God has a reason. Sorry this is short, but I am tired and ready to go to bed.

Workshopping Today

Today, I am going to workshops from 8:30 - 3:30. I had so much fun yesterday. When we got here we watched Big Brother. I have never watched that before. Don't really care to again. It just isn't my Real World. After that we went to my favorite Little Rock resturant (Olive Garden). It was great. I have no idea what we are going to do today after our workshop.

I think Michael is having a nervous breakdown on taking care of Ashton. Please keep him in your prayers. I am serious. He is a nervous wreck.

Just an update on me. I think I may be pregnant, which we be totally off of my schedule that I was planning for. We were planning to get pregnant in September so I could have the baby in June when school was out. Hopefully, the hag will come and I am worrying for nothing. Anyways, I will love the baby even if it comes in April instead of June. I will let everyone know when I am sure. I am just worried about expenses.

I want everyone to have fun at Betsy's shower tomorrow. Tell her Congrats for me.

Missing Dad

I miss my Dad so much. I just wish he was here. I wish that mean cancer never would have taken him away. He was the last person, I had to talk to about family things. Daddy was so great to me and would do anything for me. I was trully a Daddy's little girl.

I go for weeks without missing him, but this week has been one of the hardest. So oftern, I have picked up the phone and dialed his number. I would have something exciting to tell him. I would call him every day, even on days that I didn't need to.

I think this week is very hard because I am so excited about teaching kindegarten and decorating my room. Dad was always there to give me pointers. After all, he did have to take a bulletin board class in college to get his education degree. I just wish he was here.

I am also struggling with fixing to start trying to have another baby. I want to tell him so bad. I know he sees me from heaven, but I want to see him. I just simply miss my Daddy.

Sorry for this sappy blog post, but it grief for Daddy has taken over me. I can't stand it. I love my Daddy and wish he could come back to me and hold his little girl again. I am praying to get over this grief, but it is hard. I just get so depressed over this matter.

Heat Stroke Waiting to Happen

Who rides their bike on a day that is over a 100 degrees? That is right someone very stupid. THE ARNOLD'S. We decided to ride our bike about 7:00 pm. Ashton was cranky and usually riding the bike puts him to sleep. Great idea. (Needless to say, Ashton is still awake.) So we ride our bikes to Suzanne's to meet those crazy people going outside to play in 100 degree weather. So Ashton got off the bike and played and we got water. Like I said it was hot. It was great riding over there. Then you have to start thinking you have to make the same trip home. You came on bikes, you must leave on bikes. So we pedaled home. It was great until you got to the giant hills. I would like to say that I won't do it again, but I would being lying. I loved it. Next time I may wear shorts instead of blue jeans.

Classroom Setting Up

Today, I got to work in my classroom. I had a meeting with the kindergarten teachers about testing the students in order to place them. After Michael got out of class, he help me set up my room.

I am so excited. I finally have my own room that I get to set up the way that I want. Last year, I filled in for a teacher that left, so there was not much time to make it my own. I got to pick a classroom color and theme. My color is yellow and the theme is Volkswagon Beetles (cars). I am so excited. I am going to go back tomorrow to work more. The only thing I am nervous about is teaching the students. Kindergarten is a whole new world for me. I am sure it will come as easy as first grade did.

I am so excited about school starting. I can't wait!!!!!

God's Timing is Perfect

Two post in a day. I did not plan on this post but I feel led to. I finally had quiet time today. I had to write it on my to do list in order to get it done, but I did. I spent time with God. I am going to try to do my devotional that I started back in March. I am on Day 18 so you can see how I kept up with it. The devotion today was on God's timing. All through this devotion I thought of Mandy. We all go through these times, just right now I am not. Mandy I hope that this devo will help you with your struggle.


Enough Faith for the Holding Pattern by: T. D. Jakes

Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord. Psalm 27:14

It is God's timing that we must learn. He synchronizes His answers to accomplish His purpose. Recently, whil traveling on a major American airline, we were told that the plane could not land at its scheduled time. evidently the air traffic controller insructed that we should wait in the air. What a strange place to have to wait--in the air! I have often felt like the aircraft suspended in the air when God says, "Wait!" Then the captain spoke into the PA system. He said, "We are going to assume a holding pattern until further instructions come from the tower." After some time, a few rather intoxicated passengers began to question the traffic ontroller's decision. Perhaps we were all concerned. It's just that some had their concern lubricated with several stiff shots of rum.

The anxious looks and acidic remarks that came from the crowd subsided as the stewardess quickly eased people's fears. She informed several worried passengers that the planes always carry enough fuel to withstand the demands of these kinds of delays. There was a calm assurance on the faces of the attendents. I would have to attribute it to the fact that they had prepared for a delay. I began to wonder if we as the children of God shouldn't be better prepared for those times in our lives when God speaks from His through "Assume a holding pattern until further notice." The question is not always, "Do you have enough faith to receive?" Sometimes it is this: "Do you have enough faith to assume a holding pattern and wait for the fullfillment of the promise?"

You feel a deep sense of contentment when you know God has not forgotten you. I will never forget the time I went through a tremendous struggle. I thought it was an emergency. I thought I had to have an answer right then. I learned that God isn't easily spooked by what I call an emergency.



I hope that this may touch some people has much as it did me. The main point I got from this was that....

God synchronizes His answers to accomplish His purpose.

Summer Break is Almost Over

Summer break is almost over! I know this because Ashton started day care today. I took him out because of the summer and now he is back. We are at a new day care. Ashton is now attending Kid's World. It is a Christian-based day care. He walked right in there and went about his business like he had been there before. He is so grown up.

I hope Ashton will learn lots of new things. Well, hopefully, not the assignment on the right. Hopefully, they will teach "Jesus Loves Me" or "The Itsy Bitsy Spider."

Next week, I won't be in town. I have workshops all week. Please pray for Michael, he must keep Ashton all week (Sunday through Thursday). God bless his soul. Anyways, enough babbling, I am going to go and finish more on my to do list. Maybe I will accomplish them because Ashton is not here to bother me.

Horrific Events of 2001

After going to church today, I didn't know what I was going to blog about. Don't get me wrong church was great. Our church members that went to Connecticutt to help set up VBS, discussed their week. It was great to hear people talk. I was wondering why in the world we would travel hundreds of miles away to work at VBS. In this particular area, VBS is not a known term like it is around here. In fact, it is foreign to most. Our team had a great time and ministered to a lot of people. Tons of seeds were planted by our 11.

It was not until just before we left that Jennifer wanted to show pictures of Ground Zero. They were able to tour New York City while they were there. I have been there 3 times and feel like the town is a part of me. This blog is basically my tribute to the World Trade Center and the lives lost.


The World Trade Center took 11 years to build (1966 - 1977). It was built to house anyone that dealt with world trade. The towers were built right in the heart of the business district of New York City. From anywhere in New York, you could see the towers in skyline. This became the symbol of New York. Every tourist went to see the towers. I acutally had the opportunity to tour the towers back in 1994. It is an amazing building with 110 stories. Flags from every country aligned the ceiling in the foyer. Many different nationalities entered and departed the front doors. Just in my 10 minutes of standing in the lobby, it seemed like over a thousand people enter or departed the towers.


On September 11, 2001, New York City life was changed forever. It no longer had the towers watching over the city. Terrorist ran planes into the towers totally demolishing them. I will never forget the day I heard the news. I was sitting in the cafeteria at UAM eating breakfast. News interuppted the college channel that was always playing. I thought, Oh my God, a plane just accidently hit one of the towers. That is scary. Then an hour later (I think) another plane hit the other tower. This was something serious. New Yorkers were in panic. The homeland was just invaded. Everyone was getting angry. I couldn't understand it.

I can remember calling my Mom and she said, "Wow, this makes my life and illness nothing compared to what these families are going through. I shouldn't complain about what God has handed me. Look at the millions of people who have lost their lives." You have to take into consideration my Mom died of lung cancer the following February. She made me realize that I should never complain about my life and how God has hand misfortune after misfortune. That is just not the case. I still have a reason to be here. Here she was dying and all she could think about was the families of the victims. I hope to one day be that strong as she was.


I had the opportunity to go back to New York City in 2005. I knew that there was nothing there, but I never realized that NOTHING was there. There is just a hole where the towers should be. Fences had but erected to keep people from walking into the area. On top of the fences, plaques have been placed telling the story of the 9/11 events minute by minute. People stopped and prayed. All over New York you hear traffic sounds. It is like when you hit Ground Zero, there is a silence that erupts. Everyone is showing respect to the lives lost. You can truly feel God's presence in this one place. It is amazing how he can use horrific events to wake people up the the realization that we need God.

Blessed Food 50 Times Over

OK! My blog want be near as exciting as Suzanne's. Congratulations Suzanne!!!!!

Kids are so cute. Today we ate our lunch. Nothing fancy just spaghetti! We were in the middle of eating and Asthon says, "Momma Blessing." So we had to stop and say the traditional God is good blessing. I thought after one time, we could continue to eat. No!!! Not this time. We had to say the blessing before each bite. Over the course of the meal we probably said the blessing fifty times. There you have it I had a really blessed lunch.

Kids are so innocent. They can teach us many things. So often, I don't pray over my food like I used to when I was child. I am kind of excited about doing that now. Hopefully, Ashton will get me in the habit.

We do have a ritual now. Before Ashton goes to bed. We get his pirate juice which is just milk (Thanks Suzanne). Daddy reads a book to Ashton and then Mommy reads the Jesus book (children's Bible stories---Thanks again Suzanne). If we do not do it, Ashton will throw a fit. It is exciting to actually start some traditions with him and our future children.

100 Things About Me

Dang You Angela! Well I was tagged to do this. By the way Michael she tagged you to. You better get to writing.

1. born in Greenville, MS
2. graduated Eudora High School in 97 (was the only white)
3. madly in love with John Travolta
4. went to Israel and Rome at 14
5. 1st kiss was at a track meet 2 days before 16th birthday (I wasn't sweet 16 and never been kissed)
6. married at 23
7. graduated with bachelor's degree in Early Childhood/Special Education P-4
8. fascintated by serial killers (read and watch anything about them)
9. electricuted my husband the very first day I met him
10. once ran into a closed glass door
11. want to pursue a doctorate degree
12. first job was working at a church daycare
13. was fired from first job
14. shift leader at Pizza Inn
15. wanted to be a news broadcaster when I grew up
16. love to travel
17. been to New York City 3 times
18. used to smoke cigarettes when I was stressed
19. cheated on husband in early stages of dating with ex-boyfriend
20. had a tongue ring
21. never touched the internet until I went to college in 1997
22. took 2 trips to Mexico for missions
23. was molested as a child by my brother's friend
24. both parents died of cancer
25. love the smell of burnt skin
26. my sister is autistic
27. don't like to read
28. getting my master's in reading
29. love to color
30. taught myself to sew
31. favorite alcoholic beverage: orange juice and coconut rum
32. didn't party after high school graduation and went home
33. refuse to have sex with Sr. Prom date because he left prom to have sex with someone else
34. never camped in a tent until last year (2005)
35. in love with black labs
36. thinks all cowboys are sexy
37. love rodeos
38. totally in debt
39. bought my 1st car this year (06) (mostly with my Dad's insurance money)
40. love the US Navy
41. took an aviation class in college
42. bought alcohol for the underaged
43. love to eat biscuits and gravy
44. obsessed with the Real World on MTV
45. love to watch Lifetime TV
46. was a cheerleader in high school
47. had a crush on a former teacher
48. never been to a club
49. was afraid once I was a lesbian because no boys liked me
50. wore braces in high school and first part of college
51. not a virgin when I married (sorry Michael)
52. pro-choice (Don't agree with what abortion is used for but want the option there for emergencies and birth control does not count)
53. don't like George W. Bush (voted John Kerry)
54. fascinated with the Holocaust
55. can't watch First Wives Club (always hate guys afterwards)
56. thing the Truman Show was sad and not funny
57. stayed up once for 48 hours
58. depressed when I am bored
59. only like orange highlighters
60. think Brokeback Mountian is the best movie ever
61. helped husband do mystery shopping
62. wrote a paper for someone getting a doctorate degree and got paid $100
63. love to decorate for Halloween
64. burn grill cheese sandwiches every time I cook them
65. love to mow the yard
66. have scoliosis
67. love children and working with them
68. had a cat scan once on my head
69. freak out over pap smears and breast exams
70. wear flip-flops year round
71. lived with husband before we were married
72. use to collect dog figurines
73. enjoy mud riding on 4-wheelers
74. love to work on cars with husband
75. hate to have long hair
76. had only 1 speeding ticket my whole driving career (11 years)
77. hate to drive
78. sucker for cake
79. year I was born
80. hate cooked veggies and fruits
81. love to eat out
82. drink sweet tea everyday
83. scared of being outside after dark by myself
84. big problem with using profanity
85. drunk and knew nothing the next morning
86. eat a whole bage of Oreos at once
87. met Tuff Hedemen (famous bull rider)
88. have over 3,000 songs on my iPod
89. favorite color is lime green
90. favorite meat is chicken
91. almost drowned in the wave pool at Wild River Country
92. seen the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade live
93. stole a piece of bubble gumat 10
94. youngest of 6 kids
95. want 3 kids
96. hate summer and love winter
97. hate to wash my hair
98. want a VW van painted like a hippie van
99. love little league baseball
100. married for 4 wonderful years to a really awesome guy

Sorry if there are grammar errors, but I am tired after doing this one. I don't want to check. Maybe later.

OK, I had to do this. Now I am going to tag Mandy and Suzanne. There is no getting out of this one.

Lift Your Husband Up

Last night was small group. We talked more about changing our ways and not our husbands. It is great to be around a bunch of women that are going or have gone through the same things that I have.

The picture above reminds me of how I feel some times about Michael. I get so aggrevated about things he doesn't do, like cleaning the house. There are days that I just want to vacumn him up and forget about him. I feel that I could make it on my own without him taking up space. It is sad that I feel this way a lot.

From small group, I have learned that I need to change myself. I can't make him be my fantasy husband. He is who he is. I have also learned that I must lift him up. I shouldn't talk down on him. I don't have a problem with this most of the time. I will talk him up to anyone, except him. I never tell him what great joy he brings to my life. Since I know that he reads my blog, I am going to write a few of the great things about him that I love. Sorry if it gets sappy. I am really going to be working at telling him what a great job he has done.

Michael, I love you because....

1. You have brought great joy to my life.
2. You saved me from a corrupt world that I was heading for.
3. You took care of my Dad for me to finish school.
4. You bought me the Razr because you knew I wanted it bad.
5. You make me laugh.
6. You are a great mechanic.
7. You cook me eggs, because I can't cook eggs to save my life.
8. You also cook me grill cheese sandwiches because I burn them.
9. You put up with all my griping. I don't know why but you have.
10. You are always willing to go on a road trip with no planning.
11. You wash my hair because I love for you to massage my scalp.
12. You love to grill.
13. You taught me how to drive a standard.
14. You do without to provide me with my wants.
15. You are such a gadget geek.
16. You are very artistic.
17. You love reading up on celebrity gossip with me.
18. You can rig up anything to work.
19. You are great with kids.
20. You are interested in my career choice.
21. You make fun of me because I like to eat frozen weiners.
22. You are scared of pschological thrillers, and I get to hold you through those movies.
23. You care enough to put up with Wal-Mart so we can have some extra cash.
    
24. You are so intelligent when it comes to computers.
25. You will live in South Arkansas and not move to Little Rock because I don't want to live there.
26. You put up with my family teasing you.
27. You were blamed for running of the street sign in my Dad's brand new truck and it was me.
28. You are willing to help anyone at the drop of a dime.
29. You are not scared of heights.
30. You wore a cowboy hat for me once. You were a sexy cowboy.
31. You took me to see Willie Nelson and you hate country.
32. You are so low maintanence.
33. You don't like casserole because you were ruined by church potlucks...I hate to make casseroles.
34. You will eat at Ameca any time that I want even though it messes your tummy up.
35. You got me an iPod so I could listen to music on the way to work.
36. You will wash my car just because you want to.
37. You are constantly trying to turn me into a Mac person.
38. You don't like to look at clowns. I think that is so cute.
39. You will fart in front of me and laugh and also show me your amazing poops before you flush them.
40. You will rub my back at night with no strings attached.
41. You cry during movies...(you probably didn't want me to say that)..but you don't do it often...just when someone dies.
42. You love to take computers apart and then put them back together.
43. You will read to Ashton.
44. You love to work on sound and it drives you nuts not to be back there working on it at Journey.
45. Your hate for Panic at the Disco.
46. You can't dance and step on my feet when we do.
47. You don't mind going to the laundry mat and wash clothes with me.
48. You love to be around me and we do everything together.
49. You are being patient till we have money so you can get some new glasses because you break and fall off your face.
50. You don't mind hanging out with me and my friends on your day off.

Fifty will do for now. I am sure I could come up with 50 more. Michael means the world to me and I would not trade him for anything. I will work on trying to compliment him more to his face.

Clean Jokes

First off, I was looking for my graphic for this post online. I then cam across this. I thought this could be my next plot to run the Apple. Just thought that was funny. I bet I have ruined my chances of ever getting a puppy now.


OK, here is the real graphic that goes with this post. My teacher in my grad class posted this for all her students to see. I thought that I would share them with you.

An elderly woman walked into the local country church. The friendly usher greeted her at the door and helped her up the flight of steps. "Where would you like to sit?" he asked politely.

"The front row please." she answered.

"You really don't want to do that," the usher said. "The pastor is really boring."

"Do you happen to know who I am?" the woman inquired.

"No." he said.

"I'm the pastor's mother," she replied indignantly.

"Do you know who I am?" he asked.

"No." she said.

"Good," he answered.


________________________________

Show and Tell:
A kindergarten teacher gave her class a "show and tell" assignment. Each student was instructed to bring in an object to share with the class that represented their religion.The first student got up in front of the class and said, "My name is Benjamin and I am Jewish and this is a Star of David." The second student got up in front of the class and said, "My name is Mary. I'm a Catholic and this is a Rosary." The third student got in up front of the class and said, "My name is Tommy. I am Methodist, and this is a casserole."

______________________________

The Best Way To Pray:
A priest, a minister and a guru sat discussing the best positions for prayer while a telephone repairman worked nearby."Kneeling is definitely the best way to pray," the priest said.
No," said the minister. "I get the best results standing with my hands outstretched to Heaven."
"You're both wrong," the guru said. "The most effective prayer position is lying down on the floor." The repairman could contain himself no longer. "Hey, fellas," he interrupted. "The best prayin' I ever did was when I was hangin' upside down from a telephone pole."

____________________________

Waking Up for Church:
One Sunday morning, a mother went in to wake her son and tell him it was time to get ready for church, to which he replied, "I'm not going." "Why not?" she asked. "I'll give you two good reasons." He said. "One, they don't like me, and two, I don't like them." His mother replied, "I'll give YOU two good reasons why you SHOULD go to church. One, you're 54 years old, and two, you're the pastor!"

__________________________

The Twenty and the One:
A well-worn one dollar bill and a similarly distressed twenty dollar bill arrived at a Federal Reserve Bank to be retired. As they moved along the conveyor belt to be burned, they struck up a conversation. The twenty dollar bill reminisced about its travels all over the country. "I've had a pretty good life," the twenty proclaimed. "Why I've been to Las Vegas and Atlantic City, the finest restaurants in New York, performances on Broadway, and even a cruise to the Caribbean." "Wow!" said the one dollar bill. "You've really had an exciting life!" "So tell me," says the twenty," "where have you been throughout your lifetime?" The one dollar bill replies, "Oh, I've been to the Methodist Church, the Baptist Church, the Lutheran Church..." The twenty dollar bill interrupts, "What's a church?"


______________________

Goat For Dinner:
The young couple invited their elderly pastor for Sunday dinner. While they were in the kitchen preparing the meal, the minister asked their son what they were having. "Goat," the little boy replied. "Goat?" replied the startled man of the cloth, "Are you sure about that?" "Yep," said the youngster. "I heard Dad say to Mom, 'Today is as good as any to have the old goat for dinner.'"

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A minister was preoccupied with thoughts of how he was going to ask the congregation to come up with more money than they were expecting, for repairs to the church building. Therefore, he was annoyed to find that the regular organist was sick and a substitute had been brought in at the last minute. The substitute wanted to know what to play. "Here's a copy of the service," he said impatiently. "But you'll have to think of something to play after I make the announcement about the finances." During the service, the minister paused and said, "Brothers and Sisters, we are in great difficulty; the roof repairs cost twice as much as we expected, and we need $4,000 more. Any of you who can pledge $100 or more, please stand up." At that moment, the substitute organist played "The Star Spangled Banner." And that is how the substitute became the regular organist!

I Hate Homework

I hate homework or at least the thought of it. I am in my fourth class of grad school with Grand Canyon University. This summer I am just not motivated. It is crazy I did so well, when I was teaching and had very little time. Now, I have all the time in the world, but could care less.

It is crazy that I hate to sit down and write my paper. I love to write and usually enjoy the paper once I get started. I have the summertime blues. I just don't want to do anything. Clean house, homework, play outside, nothing. I just want to sit in front of my TV and watch Lifetime movies.

Anyways, instead of writing my paper, I am writing this blog. Don't you just love how you do things to avoid doing other things. I think I will clean my house next. Lord know it needs it. I just need to do something besides writing this paper and posting my discussion questions. Any ideas? I have already been to Suzzanne's and wasted 2 1/2 hours. I slept till 10 am this morning. Get creative and tell me what to do to avoid my paper.

God's Timing

We have been talking about God's timing for some time amongst my friends. I get devotionals in my e-mail everyday. I thought some of you may like to read it, so I have copied and pasted it. God works in his own timing and not ours. God put events in my life to show me that my marriage needed him. Since March, my marriage has been great but that his only because he is in it all the way.



by Dennis and Barbara Rainey

July 10

It's Never Too Late for God

Matthew 19:26
With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.

When I hear of people divorcing because of "irreconcilable differences," I think of the above verse. When a marriage looks doomed from man's perspective, that's when man needs to turn to God. If the almighty God can part the Red Sea, if He can reconcile you to Him by the sacrifice of His Son, why is it impossible for Him to heal a broken marriage?

You may be facing "irreconcilable differences" in your marriage, or perhaps in a relationship with another person at work, at church or in your neighborhood. If so, take heart from the following note given to one of our FamilyLife Marriage Conference speakers.

Last year in March my wife, Susan, informed me she didn't love me and wanted a divorce. I wanted to work to save our marriage, but she didn't.

My sister gave us a registration form to attend a FamilyLife Marriage Conference in 1992. Susan filed for divorce, so I attended the conference alone.

I became aware through the conference of the reasons my marriage was failing. God was not a part of our marriage. After the conference I became involved in and eventually joined a church. I prayed for God's will in my life but especially for God to put my family and marriage back together. However, the divorce was final soon afterward.

Miraculously, my new church started a single parents' support group and care group in July. I joined immediately. God supplied the support I needed to become a single parent. Afterward, Susan and I began to discuss the mistakes we had made in our lives and our marriage. We began to discuss reconciliation.

Susan and I are here at the conference together, committed to rebuilding our relationship with God as a part of our family. I praise God for answering my prayer even if it's in His own way and His own time.

It's never too late for God.

I love that last line. Nothing is impossible for God.

Prayer:

Ask God to help you believe that nothing is impossible with Him. Commit to praying with your mate that God would move as only He can.

Discuss: What situations are you facing that seem impossible to you?

This one is for Mandy

OK. This is just a random post. Mandy had this on her blog, so I said what the heck. Well, Suzanne you are not the only boring one. I guess this means we can be great friends, since we are just alike.

You Are Basic Panties

You are a laid back chick with a real natural beauty. You can make unwashed hair and minimal make-up super sexy. Men tend to notice you show the "real you" - and they appreciate it. And while basic makes boring for some, it looks classic on you.

What Kind of Panties Are You?

Pray for My Friend

I know what you are thinking, two post in one day. This girl needs a life. Actually, after my first post, I read my e-mail. I got an e-mail from one of my friends in Jonesboro. He is very close to my heart and always has been since I met him. Below is a copy of his e-mail with the names taken out. He really needs our prayers in discovering his purpose in life.


Guess there's no need to think about how to get ___________ attention, Lou. Looks like I'll be breaking up with her in the next day or two. I've finally come to the realization that I'm simply not a priority to her. It's not that I come third or fourth; it's that I don't think I'm really on the list at all.

"Deep in the winter even holdout leaves start falling."

I don't know what's wrong with me. I've never really known, I guess. I still don't. I don't know if I ever will. For some reason, I just don't work like other people.

And it ain't like God is helping out here. I haven't heard a word from Him since the end of grad school. I really thought that I'd heard from him not too long ago. I asked if I was going to be single all my life (God's single...you know...unmarried). I thought he said no. I really thought so. I just don't know anymore.

I'm going to go to work. I'm going to hang out with my friends and write my book and go to the gym and maybe learn to draw or play the guitar. I'm going to go to school and get my master's degree in library science. I'm not any good for anything more, I guess.

So far it doesn't even hurt. It just...confuses me. I really thought that maybe I could be like other people. I thought she chose me. I thought, I thought. I guess not.

I'm not noble about it, either. I look at ___________ , with his girlfriend down in Texas, and ____________, with his girlfriend a thousand miles away. Both of them are closer to their girlfriends NOW than I EVER was with __________________.

I just don't know what's wrong with me. I don't get it. There's just something I'm missing, some rule or way of life or something that doesn't even have a name. I guess there's something wrong with me, but I don't even have a name for what's broken or what's missing.

Good night, Lou.


He has been struggling with the issue of dating since dating becomes an issue in everyone's life. We all know that we have been down this road at some point in our life. We just want the assurance. Please pray for him. This guy is really a remarkable guy. (He would have to be to be my friend. Just kidding.) He has always been that one guy that I could always talk to about my problems. I just want to cry hearing him talk like this. If you have any pointers that I can give him, please do. I will do anything to help him out.

More Sunday Pondering

I went to church today. Today we were discussing James 5. This is about being rich and not giving any of your riches to others. Granted I am not rich, but I did get a lot of information to take home today and think about. What little I make as a school teacher and that being the only income for 3 people, I don't give to others. Yes, as Phillip wrote in his blog, I would just about give the clothes of my back to help someone in need. The problem with this is I wait for the need. I don't normally just go out and help people when they don't need it. I would in a heartbeat, but I just dont' think about doing it. We typically don't give help unless a death, doctors appointment, or other major events. I wait for someone to need me before I will help. I hope to work on this. I love to help others.

Another problem my family has is with tithing. This issue has always been on my heart. I want to tithe, but I don't have the money to tithe. That sounds crazy. Every bit of my money goes to bills. There is no money that is left over. How can I give money to God if I am struggling with keeping a roof over my family? This just doesn't seem possible. After trying to answer this question, I began to analyze my life. Here of some of the possessions that I have that are not necessary: '06 Ford Focus (which most of Dad's insurance money paid for it), 2 computers, 2 cell phones, surround sound for the TV, playstation and about 25 games, etc. Are these necessary? The money I used to buy these items, I could have spent on my church. All of these possessions do add up in price. Jeff mention that they write their check to the church before any bills. Giving to the Lord should be your first priority. I think that I may try this look on tithing. I am going to prioritize my giving and put the Lord first. I am so excited about doing this. Michael get's paid Thursday, so I think I will start then.

If anyone else has ideas on tithing just let me know.

My Husband is an Alien!!!

For the longest time, I knew my husband was an alien. I just had no proof and did not know how to get the proof. I know most of you will not believe me, but it is true. I had the opportunity last night to have proof, but he would not let me get the proof. Why did I listen to the alien? Stupid me, I could have been on Unsolved Mysteries or the 6 o'clock news if I would have taken pictures. I could have received millions for my discovery. I am just so stupid.

Here's the story.....


Michael came home last night from work as usual around 9:30 pm. Only this time, he wasn't really Michael. The alien came out of him. It was quite freaky. Michael had what appeared to poison ivy all over his body. I do mean everywhere. Take a look at the figure above. Sorry I had to censor it. He took a benadryl and the next morning it was all ok. My question is what was that stuff. Was he turning into an alien because he was not in bed by midnight? I just find it odd that the next morning he was fine and no signs of this mysterious rash. Something is fishy. I am telling you he is an alien. Please believe me. I know I have no proof and this drawing doesn't prove anything, but you have to believe me. I will share my wealth with you when I turn him over to authorities, if you help me prove it.

Anyways, I have only known this to happen one other time. We were in college and dating. Out of no where he grew bumps all over him like chicken pox. The next morning they disappeared. Something crazy is going on. Please help me!!!

HAS SOMETHING HAPPENED TO MY HUSBAND? IS HE NORMAL OR IS HE REALLY AN ALIEN?

I relied to the good old internet for answers. I found this book. I may buy it and see if it will help me.

I think I may have to mail it to my brother or someone else. I don't want Michael to think I am suspicious or anything. God only knows what he may do if he found out I knew he was an alien.

Christmas Planning

I know what you are thinking. It is July. This girl has flown off her coup. Anyways, we have to plan months in advance with our family to try to fit everyone in.

Today, we have been planning our trip to Arizona. We are going there during Christmas to see Ashton's nana (Dr. Maxedon). We are going to fly. I have flown before but Michael, Hope, and Ashton haven't. It ought to be interesting. We have made our plans for Dec. 26 - Jan. 2. So don't plan anything during those times. Just kidding, we just won't be there and you will be sad because our lively crew is not there to keep you company.

Anyways, back to the flying. We are probably go to have to drive to Dallas and catch a plane. That sounds really crazy. I thought the same thing, but it is actually cheaper. Crazy! Anyways we will save like $70 to drive there and spend the night before the flight leaves. It is weird but I did do the research.

Enough thinking about Christmas. I hope that everyone's day is going great. Mine has been, especially thinking about Christmas. I love Christmas, I can't wait. It is really fun to watch your children open their presents. Actually, Ashton tries to open his presents early. We have to really watch him when the tree goes up. If we leave the room, he opens presents. I will talk to you guys tomorrow. Sorry to get off tracks and continue to talk about Christmas.

WE ARE GOING TO SPEND CHRISTMAS VACATION IN ARIZONA. WE MAY ACTUALLY SEE SOME SNOW. SO HA HA TO ALL YOU THAT ARE STAYING IN ARKANSAS.

Hope and Wednesday Night Group

My sister has been with us all week. I really like it when she comes but it can be very tiring. We got her Monday and are taking her back on Saturday. Today, we basically did everything for her. We drove around in my Dad's truck, which is now my brother's because of his death. She always loved to ride around in the truck. This evening we went to McDonalds. Let me tell you she can spot the arches for miles away. She absolutely loves it.

After eating at McDonalds we went to the Parkers for small group. I am so excited about Wednesday nights. We are soon going to split into male/female groups. The group has just gotten so big. Today's discussion was on wives submitting to their husband. Just hearing these women talk is amazing. I have discovered that I need to give in to my husband more. We have the same argument over and over again about him spending way to much time on the computer. Yes, I have prayed that the computer would die and he wouldn't have it. Of course, you know it almost happen, then Apple fixed it. I know God is behind it. He is like haha made you think I answered that prayer. In reality, I was praying wrong. I can't pray for my husband to change. Stupid me, it is me that needs to change. I know I am stubborn and won't let go of my way. It runs in the family. It is a curse. I am going to be more understanding to his needs. With the help God and my friends, I am going to turn a new leaf toward our relationship.

Happy 4th!!!!

Happy 4th to everyone. Today has been an exciting day for us. We got up this morning at 8:30. This is sleeping in for me. We grilled hamburgers today for lunch. I like it when Michael grills this means that I don't have to cook.

At 5 pm we went to the Morgan's home for a cookout there. It was great and had a good turn out. Ryan grilled hamburgers and everyone else brought condiments or fruit and stuff. It is really exciting to go to these events because we are getting to know people very well. We actually feel a part of a group (both of us at the same time). After the cookout, the kids (including Jeff, Ryan, and Michael) shot firecrackers.

My sister is with us this week. I was really happy that she was in a good mood for the cookout. It was exciting to know that everyone excepted her like she was normal. Most people gives us those looks when we are with her. Not here, everyone talked to her. I was really happy tonight.

Well, I must go to bed now. I hope tomorrow will be as great as today. We love everyone at Journey.

Lost Cheese

Michael has a blog for those of you who do not know. Michael's Blog.

Please don't be scared of his writing. You must know that his cheese slipped off his cracker several years ago. We are still in the process of finding it. Seven years have gone by and still no cheese. If you know where it is just let us know.

Check out his blog and leave him some comments.

Family Camp

Camp was great. I would recommend it to anyone. It was great to get away from the world and relax with your closest friends (well at least they are close now). Below are some links to see all the photos from the camp.

Family Camp Album 1

Family Camp Album 2

Ashton hit a milestone at camp! He can now successfully ride his bike. Well, almost. He can't stop or let's say stop without crashing into something. I am so proud of him.

Here is Ashton being very upset because he couldn't climb on the ropes course. This is the only time that he was upset during camp. He wanted to do everything that everyone else was doing. He was a big boy on the trip.

Here we are just chilling at the pool. We had such a great time. We are so tired now!

This is just another picture of Ashton chilling at camp. He just love the camera.