Loving Life...

Surfside = Paradise!!!

2008-08-30T19:29:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone...Here I am again, fresh off a WONDERFUL vacation to Surfside Beach, SC...It was an incredible time of rest and relaxation...We had a wonderful time of laying on the beach, reading some great books, eating at some incredible places, and just being together! Today, after we returned home I was in a "weird" mood...Kinda wish I was still on vacation!!

Here are some pics for you to enjoy...

(the view from our bedroom!)

Excitement...

2008-08-08T11:36:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone...Hope you all are having a great week...Things are crazy around here (as always!)....Here are a few things going on...

**We just got back from Cincinnati, OH with our college group...We had a great time going to Dave and Busters, "Riding the Ducks" on the Ohio River, Going to a Reds game, and going to Kings Island. Needless to say, we are old and feel old...We wish we had the energy we had in college! The kids were great and we had an awesome time!

**I got a part-time job at a local gift shop that is opening in our town! I can't wait! I start Monday and can work as much as I want....Vera Bradley, Pandora, and all the other gifts are going to be hard to resist....Patrick wants me to bring home a paycheck...not leave it there!!

**I passed a fragment of a kidney stone!!! I took it to the Dr. yesterday and will know in a few months what it is made of...hopefully that will tell us what measures to take to not have one again!!!

**We are counting down the days until the beach!! We can't wait to go again!! This trip will be the first one that we are going on with no one else but us!!! 15 days!!

Here are some pics of the Cincinnati Trip:

The group @ Kings Island

Patrick on one of the water rides!

Patrick loves sprinkles..the kids really ragged him about that!

Us on the "Ride the Ducks" Ride....

Us @ the Reds Game...It was SO hot!!!

Finally...an update!!!

2008-07-26T17:55:00.003-04:00

Well, being that it has been a CRAZY 11 DAYS since I lasted updated my blog, I figured that now was the time...Lots has gone on for sure...

After returning from the mountains with my parents, I went to the urologist to find out why my crazy body has been acting up! Well, he believed that there was a narrowing in my ureters that was causing my pain and wanted to do surgery to find out more...So on July 16th (2 days before Patrick's BIG birthday weekend....see more below!) I had the surgery...He did not find anything and now believes that the problem is probably dealing with the endometriosis that has reappeared...So I go to my OB-GYN on Aug. 12th to talk further about all of that...

So after a SHORT recovery time at home, we ventured to Pigeon Forge to spend the 30th birthday weekend with Patrick's parents. We had a great time...We enjoyed being with eachother and especially PapPaw being able to make the trip to see our home, and the beautiful mountains....We also enjoyed many great meals and great memories....Here are some pics!

Patrick and his Papaw...I love this pic!! Two great men!

Patrick opening one of his gifts!! An MSU t-shirt!!

The two birthdays...His mom's birthday was the 21st! What a great time!

The family enjoying the day together!

The group loving some Johnny Carino's!!! Yummy!

On Sunday, after church, Patrick was definitely surprised to find out that I had been planning a surprise party for him! He could not believe that I could keep my mouth shut..not just me, but everyone at church, youth group, and family...We all did great! He loved it. The people of the church were so kind and enjoyed the party so much!

Patrick with his Mountain Dew cake...What a great theme!

The family posing with the birthday boy!!

On Monday after the big party, Patrick left for Centri-Kid Camp for the week and my mom came to stay with me ( I had planned on going with him, but with a stent in and still recovering it was not in God's plans!)...Mom and I had a great time being together and relaxing...Mom and I figured it up that she has only worked 2 1/2 weeks in the past month and has made 3 round-trips to this area over the past month...She rocks!

So, hope that has caught you up with all of the crazy-ness of the past couple of weeks! Maybe the next month won't be as busy...we need a break!!!

He is EVERYHING...

2008-07-15T10:54:00.001-04:00

I needed to be reminded of this today...hope it will remind you too!

He is EVERYTHING…

In Genesis, He's the breath of life
In Exodus, He is the Passover Lamb
In Leviticus, He's our high priest
In Numbers, the fire by night
Deuteronomy, He's Israel's Guide
Joshua, He's salvation's choice
Judges, He's Israel's Guard
In Ruth, the kinsmen's redeemer
1st and 2nd Samuel, our trusted prophet
In Kings and Chronicles He is Sovereign
In Ezra, He's the true and faithful scribe
In Nehemiah, the re-builder of broken walls and lives
In Esther, He's Mordecai's courage
In Job, the timeless redeemer
In Psalms He is our morning song
In Proverbs, He is our wisdom
Ecclesiastes, He's the time and season
In Song of Solomon, He is the lover's dream
In Isaiah He is Prince of Peace
In Jeremiah, the weeping prophet
Lamentations, the cry for Israel
Ezekiel, the call from sin
Daniel, the stranger in the fire
Hosea, the forever faithful
Joel, the spirit's power
Amos, the strong-arms that carry
Obadiah, the Lord our Savior
Jonah, the great missionary
Micah, the promise of peace
Nahum, our strength and shield
In Habakkuk and Zephaniah, He's brings revival
In Haggai He restores that which was lost
In Zachariah, He's our fountain
And in Malachi, He's the son of righteousness rising with healing in His wings
AND THAT'S JUST THE OLD TESTAMENT
In Matthew Mark Luke and John, He is God and Messiah
In the spirit filled book of Acts, He is the reigning fire from Heaven
In Romans, He is the grace of God
Corinthians, the power of love
Galatians, freedom from the curse of sin
Ephesians, our glorious treasure
Philippians, the servant's heart
Colossians, He's God and the trinity
Thessalonians, our calling King
In Timothy, Titus and Philemon, He's our mediator and our faithful pastor
In Hebrews, the everlasting courage
In James, the one who heals the sick
In 1st and 2nd Peter, our faithful shepherd
In John and Jude, He's the lover coming for His bride
AND in the Revelation, in the very end, when it's all over, said and done, when time is NO MORE. He is and will always be the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, Prince of Peace, son of Man, Lamb of God, The Great I am, Alpha and Omega, God and Savior He is Jesus Christ the Lord

HE IS EVERYTHING THAT YOU NEED!

Prayers!

2008-07-11T11:07:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone...Hope you are having a great day...the weekend is almost here!!!

I have a prayer request for you to pray about....I went to the urologist today after having some severe problems since April (fainting, vomitting, ER visits, etc) and was trying to get some answers about all that is going on with my lovely kidney stone (that refuses to leave my body!!)...After reading films and hearing about my symptoms, the doctor is seeing some things that he would like to investigate...He believes that by doing a "ureterscopy" and being able to scope my entire urinary tract, that he will be able to see what is going on and right away be able to fix it. He believes that the problem might be due to some endometriosis being attached to my ureters....so in that case, it would require some more surgery by my gyn. . I am having the "ureterscopy" next Wednesday (July 16th)...Please pray! Pray that the doctors would be able to find the problem and be able to fix it.

God is SO good and His mercies are new every day...He has a plan!!

Love to all,

A Wonderful Weekend of Celebration....

2008-07-06T14:20:00.004-04:00

Wow...What a wonderful weekend! Patrick and I met my mom and dad in Pigeon Forge on Thursday for the July 4th weekend. Not only were we celebrating Independence Day, but we were also celebrating my parents 40th wedding anniversary. And what an incredible weekend it was...

Dad and Mom!

Our Cabin!

We arrived on Thursday and the present that I had worked on since Valentine's Day was screaming at me to be opened. I could not hide the secret anymore!! I had written all of mom and daddy's friends and family and asked them to write a letter/card and send pictures...they could share good wishes, memories, etc. I compiled all of them into a scrapbook! It turned out so good...Mom and Dad opened it up and were first shocked to see pictures of their dating/early marriage years and wondered how I had gotten these pictures...they soon found out by reading the letters from their family and friends...It was awesome to watch them read the letters and cherish wonderful memories together...Here are some pictures of them with the scrapbook and a picture of the two pages of Patrick and my letter...

After reading the scrapbook and mom upset that all her makeup was gone, we went to play putt putt....We had a great time....That night we ate some "famous" Westside BBQ from New Albany...and Red Velvet Cake...Yummy!!!

Daddy making one of the many "hole in one" shots!

Mom and Dad with the Red Velvet Cake!!!

Friday, we ate breakfast and relaxed around the cabin, played some pool, and went to rent some movies to watch...We had a great July 4th..listening to the Fireworks, eating at a local Cafe, grilling out delicious steaks and being together.

Saturday, we took mom and dad to the Old Mill to eat a delicious breakfast and also went to play another FREE round of putt-putt that we had won on Thursday...awesome!!! I even made a hole in one! Go me :) Dad made his famous hamburgers, mom and I scrapbooked, and we enjoyed the mountains some more from the beautiful back porch...

This is picture of me and mom with our MOA survival shirts!!

We were so sad to leave, but are already planning another get-away weekend together soon...that will probably involve some football...MSU style!

Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad...we had a great time and look forward to being together soon!

Have a great week everyone!

What am I up to?

2008-07-02T13:25:00.002-04:00

Here's what I've been up to....

Watching...
HGTV
Jon and Kate Plus 8

Reading...
Nothing at the moment...but I believe that will change when I go to the mountains this weekend with Patrick and my parents!

Just Finished Reading...
People Magazine...Love it!!!

Listening to...
Travis Cottrell's O Holy Night Free Download...Click here for more info!

Studying...
The book of Proverbs for Sunday School class...awesome wisdom!

Over-indulging on...
Nestle PureLife Strawberry/Kiwi Splash Water...I hate the taste of water and this flavored water is wonderful!!!

Thankful for...
My parents celebrating their 40th Wedding Anniversary this July 4th!
A trip to the mountains tomorrow!
God's provision

Praying for...
My urology appointment next Thursday
Baby Nolan

Trying out...
Cha Cha text based answering service...Its really cool! You can text ChaCha with question and some real human being will answer the question with a text in return.
Franklin Covey Packing Lists and Grocery Lists...Amazing for someone organized like me!

Gearing up for...
Water Games tonight @ church

Looking forward to...
A weekend in Pigeon Forge with Patrick and my family! We need a weekend away SO bad!!!
Patrick's 30th birthday and his family coming to see us!

How about you??

Happy 4th of July....A little early!

2008-06-29T13:00:00.002-04:00

Today, we had our Patriotic Service at church. It was wonderful...complete with beautiful songs, decorations, and a beautiful message of the freedom that we have in Christ. I brought my camera to take some pics...Enjoy!

Patrick and Me....With my $12 bargain shirt from MOA!!! Gotta love it!

The church was beautifully decorated!
My man and his friends being patriotic!! In the past two months, they have been through a dunking booth, dressed as beach bums, done a hula, and dressed up as Uncle Sam....these guys are such good sports!

The Shopping of a Lifetime...

2008-06-28T11:27:00.003-04:00

Well blogging buddies...I am back from what could be the trip of a lifetime for a shop-a-olic like me and mom! Tuesday through Friday, mom and I took a trip to the Mall of America...which, by the way, is in Minneapolis, MN! Way up in northern country...in fact, many times people asked us to keep talking because they loved the way we talk!!!

The trip started off kinda bumpy!! Monday, I was to ride with Patrick and some youth to Nashville (they were on their way to Super Summer Camp!) and meet my mom and fly out Tuesday morning! Well, Sunday night and Monday morning, I was having kidney stone problems, AGAIN and was VERY sick!! Well, after many different solutions to the problem were talked through, mom decided to drive the extra 4 hours to Morristown and come and get me and then drive back to Nashville. By the way, I was in NO shape to go anywhere, but the thought of canceling this trip was devistating to me!!! I would have gone in a stretcher!

Mom and I at the airport!!!

Chicago Cubs Stadium from the air!! (for Patrick!)

So we arrived in Nashville late Monday night and flew out to Chicago and then MN Tuesday morning...As soon as we arrived at the Mall of America (MOA) we walked the whole 4 levels (5 miles) to scope it all out. Now, bear in mind that this place is HUGE...the biggest mall in America and has an amusement park in the center. And another good part....in MN there is no tax on clothing or shoes!!! Heaven anyone????

About to do some "damage!"

A very small part of the amusement park!! It was huge!!!

After seeing all that was there, we decided to shop a floor a day, beginning with the first. Here are some places that got our money!!!

The QVC Channel has a store...completely cool....the only one in the world!!! In fact, we got the special value of the day for Thursday right in the store...no tax or shipping!!!

Wednesday, we shopped the second floor! This by far was the hardest day...We had so many bags that we rented a locker!!! I know that seems strange to many of you, but one floor of the mall is over a half a mile, and so this locker thing saved the day!!! Here is what the end of day 2 looked like!!!

Thursday, we shopped the 3rd floor and also got manicures and pedicures!!! We had a wonderful day of shopping and being pampered!! Here is the finished product...complete with new shoes!!!

It was an amazing trip and best of all, my mom and I got to be together!! We had amazing meals, amazing deals, and an amazing time together...Thanks mom for a wonderful week!! We are Survivors!!!

The Beach Bum who lost a bet.....

2008-06-22T16:19:00.003-04:00

Well, for those of you who know my husband, you know that he likes a good challenge. Well during Bible School, a challenge (bet!) was made to the children about the missions offering. If the boys gave more money, then our director (Suzi) would have to do the hula today during morning worship. If the girls won, then the boys (AKA, The ministerial staff) would have to do the hula...well, you can probably guess that the girls won!! Here are a few pics of my sweetie and his friends...also a video for you to enjoy!! Have a great Sunday...I will be blogging soon about Mall of America...we leave tomorrow!

Tag---I'm IT!

2008-06-19T11:27:00.002-04:00

Melzie..My blogger friend from MO tagged me so here we go...

The rules are : To answer five questions about yourself and then tag five people whom you would like to know more about (Which I am going to tag the first 5 Comments....you can answer in your comments!!)

1. What was I doing 10 years ago?
Well, ten years ago, I was in college taking summer school classes and about to meet my future husband...wow..time has flown by!!!

2. Five things on my "To-Do" list.
*Take care of Patrick, since he had dental work done today.
*Go to VBS--final night!!
*Clean house
*Find something that Patrick can eat and fix it!
*Start thinking about a packing list for my MOA trip!!! :)

3. Five Snacks I enjoy
*Oreo Cookies
*Milkshakes
*Sunchips
*Dr. Pepper (That is a snack to me, since I can't drink many of them!)
*Peanut M&M's

4. Five things I would do if I were a millionaire/billionaire?
*Tithe 10%
*Build our church a much needed youth building
*Pay off debt
*Live in Disney World!!!
*Buy a 2nd Car...

5. Five places I have lived.
*New Albany, MS
*Myrtle, MS
*Starkville, MS
*Fort Worth, TX
*Morristown, TN

Ready, Set, Go....First 5 Comments...you answer these same questions in your comments...remember you can answer anonymous

Wow...what a crazy but WONDERFUL week!

2008-06-18T11:50:00.002-04:00

Well, we are half way through with VBS this week and it has been incredible. We have had over 150 total children register and had 17 decisions last night!!! Praise the Lord...The Lord is teaching us that inspight of our crazy work and (sometimes) bad attitudes that He still works in all things...After working so hard on putting it all together, it was worth it all to see those 17 hands being raised last night!

Here are some pics from the week so far!

PS..I am counting down the days until Mall of America...t-minus 5 days!!!! I am so excited!!!

The Praise Team leading in worship:

Kids enjoying snack time!

Craft time....

The three "beach bums"...AKA the ministerial staff of BTBC!
Patrick, Brad, and Tim...They wear lots of hats!

Video of Patrick in Dunk Tank!!!!

2008-06-14T17:01:00.001-04:00

As Promised....PICTURES!!!

2008-06-14T16:48:00.004-04:00

Here are some pictures of my lovely decorating skills for VBS...I think it turned out really nicely!! We had some men of our church build the hut and the volcano!!! I know it makes you want to be Hawaii, but if your like me...we will have to dream a little longer!!!

We had our parking lot party to get ready for VBS week and here are some pictures from that...the kids had a great time...We were expecting lots of rain today, but the Lord held it off until we were taking everything in the church to pack it up!! Patrick was at the dunk tank and got LOTS of dunks...Patrick and I also raced in the obstacle course...we decided really quick that we are way to old...Both of us have bumps and bruises!!

Remember, to check out the next post for a video of one of Patrick's many dunks!!!

I will be posting pics of the wedding from last weekend soon!

Have a great Father's Day tomorrow...Daddy I love you and can't wait to see you soon!!!

Slow Down World...

2008-06-12T15:29:00.003-04:00

Ok...I should be on "blog" probation for the amount of time between posts!! There has been lots of fun going on around here and every time I start to blog, something else fun begins!

So, here we go...

Last Thursday-Last Saturday, Patrick and I helped Clint and Ashley get married!! What a wonderful weekend it was...We started decorating Thursday and it looked awesome. The rehearsal dinner (which included the most delicious BBQ) was held at Clint's father's house overlooking the lake. The wedding Saturday was absolutely beautiful and ran like clock-work!! I directed it and Patrick officated. We were worn out after the wedding and then taking everything down.

Sunday-We had normal church activites and a 50th Wedding Anniversary Ceremony for one of our church families. When we arrived at home late Sunday night, I went straight to bed....only to wake up...

...Monday to start decorating for VBS...The theme is Hawaiian/Beach. Monday through Wednesday, Patrick and I turned on our creative juices and decorated the sanctuary and hallway with a little help from some of our youth. Some of our church men built a tiki hut and a volcano for the stage. It looks awesome.

I plan to take pictures tomorrow when we go set up for the Parking Lot Party...I can't wait to show you! One of our youth mentioned last night how proud he was that NONE of the decorations were borrowed from other churches and all were made from "scratch"...makes me wonder if since we did it all ourselves if we are "hired" for next year...which, BTW, is "Boomerang Express"...Austrailian theme!

Today, we thought we were going to enjoy a great day off of not decorating or doing anything...but Patrick woke up with a swollen cheek and PAIN in his mouth...We went the dentist and made appointments for future dental work (including two extractions and 4 fillings!!) He is drugged up on pain meds and antibiotics and is hilarious to watch!

I am going to post pics sometime in the next couple of days of the VBS decorations, the wedding, and my sweet "chipmunk" Patrick!

Have a great day!

Questions...

2008-06-05T00:22:00.002-04:00

Ok...since I have had this blog...I have realized that there are ALOT of "lurkers" around here...just coming to check in...but leaving no comments...

Not that I mind in the least...search till your heart's content....however, I am curious who you are, where you are from, etc....

sooooo....

If you would like to leave a comment with the following questions answered, that would just make my heart happy...

"How do I leave a comment?" you might ask...well, click on the comment button below this post and a pop up screen should appear...type your comment in the box....after that, you can login using various accounts or as "anonomyous"....either way is fine with me!

Here are the questions...simple really...

1. What led you to our blog?
2. What is your name and where are you from?
2. If there was one place that you could go for vacation and money was no object, where would you go? (dreaming of a vacation!!)
3. How can we pray for you?

Have a great day...can't wait to hear your responses!!

Clean House? Check!

2008-05-31T21:06:00.003-04:00

Checklist for the weekend:

Wash windows-Check!
Dust-Check!
Sweep-Check!
Clean out and throw away-Check!
Clean bathrooms-Check!
Get stains off of bathroom floor from when I fainted-Check! PRAISE THE LORD!!!
Vacuum-Check!
Wash down cabinets in kitchen-Check!
Wash Car (inside and out!)-Check!
DO ALL OF THE ABOVE IN ONE DAY!!!-Check!

When Patrick and I were discussing the day's acitivies, I mentioned that I really wanted to clean the house today...not just dust and sweep and pick-up, BUT really clean....well, boy, did we clean...We had a great time being together and making our humble abode a beautiful place!!! So after almost 10 hours of cleaning, we have finished....

Lessons learned from the day:

1.NEVER clean the whole house from top to bottom in one day again!!
2.Our Dyson Vacuum cleaner is a miracle sent straight from heaven....I love that thing!
3.When Patrick is involved in the cleaning process, take LOTS of breaks to watch SportsCenter...it makes the motivation for cleaning last longer! **That might work for shopping too!**
4. My husband has got to be the sweetest man on the planet!!!

Gotta go rest now!

Homefront Happenings....

2008-05-29T16:06:00.004-04:00

Lots going on around here...just taking a break for a second to post some pictures of our latest happenings around the home front!! We are doing great...I am finally feeling back to "normal" and Patrick is really glad of that!

Last night (Wednesday) we had our first Worship KidStyle program for children from 4 years old to fifth grade. For a while, Patrick and I have really wanted to start some sort of children's program for the summer...soooo....last night was our first one....it went great and the kids had a blast...I think the adults did too!! :)

(Our theme for the night was obeying God 24/7, Exodus 24:7)

Love those little children...aren't they cute!!!

After church last night, Patrick and I went to a nearly-wed couples new house to finish up pre-maritial counseling...They are going to be featured in the "June Bride" magazine that our local paper produces, so I had to take a picture...thought I would share with yall....isn't my hubby cute?!?!

This morning, we finished up our yard work from last week! WHEEWWWW! we are tired....in fact the word "tired" doesn't do it justice!! We are already achey from all of it!! We had to trim the hedges around the front of our house (we did the back last week)....here are some before and after shots....

BEFORE are the first two pictures!

AFTER is the last two picures!!

Happy Anniversary, Patrick!

2008-05-25T18:18:00.005-04:00

Dear Patrick,

I can not believe that 7 years has already flown by! It seems like only yesterday that we were counting down the days until our wedding...and now, here we are 7 years later! As I think about the past 7 years, I am reminded of the wonderful grace and provision of our God! He has taken care of ALL of our needs...beyond our wildest imagination. All the Glory for our wonderful marriage doesn't go to you (or me) but to what God has done through us!

I want to thank you for being the wonderful man of God that you are. You are an example of what a loving husband should be....not only to me, but to all of those that we encounter on a daily basis.

I love you and I look forward to many more years together!

Martha Jane

May 26, 2001--What a Wonderful Day!

At a Loss...

2008-05-25T18:07:00.002-04:00

Ok, so I haven't blogged in a few days...not because of anything particular, but just because there wasn't much on my mind to talk about! We have been in the "same ole, same ole" routine for several days...and I am sure you would rather not hear about the mudane things of our life!

Here are a couple of "extra" not-so-boring events that have happened lately:

***On Friday, I made another trip to the ER after passing out from EXTREME pain from kidney stone issues and low blood pressure. They didn't really do much...however, I am sure my bill will reflect otherwise!!! It was by far the most scared I have ever been...waking up in your bathroom floor with absolutely no idea as to why you are there or how you got there is a little unsettling...to say the least....I am not 100%yet, but getting there...just ready to feel better!

***Since the event on Friday, I had to cancel the class I was supposed to be teaching that night...Saturday, I did have class...it was the last one so that was WONDERFUL!!! So glad to have another class under my belt!

***I have been resting alot lately and while I was browsing the internet I found this post from the lead singer for Selah's wife...I thought it was wonderful and wanted to share...Please click here to read it!!!

***Tomorrow, Patrick and I will celebrate our 7th anniversary....A post tomorrow is in the works so check back for that!

Please keep us in your prayers...with all of my lovely kidney/fanting problems we are both on edge and really hoping that the fanting doesn't happen again....

See you tomorrow!!!

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Sadness...

2008-05-22T10:18:00.003-04:00

There are NO WORDS....Please pray for this family as they go through a TERRIBLE loss. Steven Curtis Chapman's songs have lifted and encouraged people for many years. "I Will Be Here" was in our wedding and holds a special place in our hearts. Please lift his family up in your prayers.

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And the Fight for the Winner Begins....

2008-05-20T20:59:00.002-04:00

Final Show…. let’s get to it!!!!

I don’t like the “fight of century” start of this show….the two David’s don’t seem to be the type to “fight” it out!!!

This is beyond awkward!! Lets get to the singing PLEASE!!!!

Three songs…I hope they have some variety in all of this…

WHY LORD WHY??? The Boxing/Fighting theme is RIDICULOUS!!! Could we not get another theme….i have had enough…if I didn’t love to blog for all of my 3 bloggy people that read this I would turn it off!!!!

Why can’t they just sing their way into our homes….not fight????

These two guys have just blew the “fight” theme out of the water with their sweet/compassionate comments to eachother….thata’ way boys!!

I don’t think the fighting theme is ever going to be over!!! I am momentarily confused and thinking that I have the channels switched….

1st Round: Clive Davis picks the songs...

DC: Still Haven’t Found What I am Looking For----He seems like such a natural at this….Great job…Great sound…Great song!!!

DA: Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me---I love this song!! He is bringing it too!! I am proud of him….I thought he looked nervous at the beginning of the night but he belted it tonight!!!

Winner of Round One: Hard One...I can’t decide!!!! Both were very good!

2nd Round: Songwriting Competition Songs
**Side note: The Fighting Theme has GOT TO END…Ridiculous!!!

DC: Dreamday---This song sounds like it was written just for him…suits his style and his voice! Im not quite sure I like the song, but he is doing the best he can with it!

DA: In This Moment---He is singing good….however, this is a boring song!! I am almost asleep as I type this! The phonebook comments by Randy needs to be retired with this season’s Itunes songs!!

Winner of Round Two: David Archuletta (Simon agreed!!)

3rd Round: Contestant’s Choice

DC: World I Know---I don’t think he has sung this in the competition…I love the words to this song and I have a feeling that is why he chose this song (along with it being his style of song)…kinda like his message to the world, ‘ya know? I think he has a great future in this “genre” of music….he has a great voice….regardless if he wins AI or not. Bless his heart….the emotion of the song and his sick brother has gotten to him…I wonder what the bracelet on his hand says???

DA: Imagine---GREAT CHOICE!!! Definitely my favorite song of the whole season!!! He proved himself long ago when he sang it the first time! Glad to hear it again! What a great voice he has!

Winner Round Three: David Archuletta!!!

Winner of American Idol Season 7: David………

Archuletta!!!!!

What a wonderful season finale show….I thought both guys did great!!

A knock-out for sure!!!

And just when we think the fight is over...the heavy-weight enters the arena....way to go Ruben!! Glad to hear you sing!!

Rest Anyone???

2008-05-19T15:28:00.002-04:00

WOW!!! Today has been "heaven" compared to the past 3 days!!! It weekends like we just had that make both of us realize how old we really are!!! Friday, Patrick left for Pigeon Forge for a bachelor weekend for one of his guys from church. He will be officiating his wedding on June 7th...They had a great time...Patrick stayed up late and had a great time relaxing with the boys! He returned Sunday, as Sunday School was beginning...

I had classes on Friday and all day Saturday, so I was completely swamped with that...

Sunday was CRAZY....probably one of the craziest Sunday's we have had since being in full-time ministry!! And let me tell you, Sunday it was FULL TIME!!!

We had church until 11:15 (including graduate recognition), then fed 75 people for the grad. luncheon. After that, we helped prepare and practice for "Down by the Creekbank" that was last night. The kids did a great job and so did my sweet hubbie...He looked like one of the kids in his overalls!!

As part of the musical we asked our Minister of Music and our Pastor to dress the part as well. Patrick had mentioned to me that they had agreed to not all three be at the same place at the same time so that NO ONE would get a picture of all of them...Well...through the magic of photo editing...Here it is!!! I have a feeling that this will be on the big screen Sunday!!!

We had a wonderful weekend are so excited that all of these events went off without a hitch. Now, on to other things....

Come to think of it, I don't think rest is in the picture!!!

Have a great week!

Rambling to Nowhere!!

2008-05-14T23:48:00.003-04:00

Ok...since it is almost midnight and I am still "bright eyed and bushy tailed" I thought I would just ramble to nowhere with my "bloggy" friends....

Several things on my mind....(complete with bullets...pretty impressive, huh?)

Pretty excited about a "David/David" finale on American Idol...sure to be a "humdinger" as Simon called it...I have a new respect for David Cook...even though I have always liked him, his hometown visit seemed to be the best one of the three!
I also watch America's Next Top Model (with my mom, who lives 7 hours away)...anywho, I was pretty excited that the "full-figured" model won the whole thing tonight...way to go Whitney...I have liked her from the beginning!!
I am a "tad-bit" jealous of our friends, The Glenn's (who we have known since seminary)...who are at this very moment, leaving for Disney World...Can I go??? I can fit in a suitcase very nicely!! (never tried it, but hey, its worth it to be uncomfortable for a little bit to see Mickey!)
We are in the final stages of working on our Children's End of Year Musical at church...We are performing "Down By the Creekbank" by Dottie Rambo (who died over this past week...really sad!!)....We have worked and worked and hopefully it will be a great musical...Patrick has a lead role and has yet to memorize his lines...that will be what we do tomorrow (on his day off!!)
We continue to pray for Baby Nolan and the Stubblefield family! Nolan is at CHOP (Children's Hospital of Philadelphia) and has had one of three surgeries to correct his HLHS...a heart defect....Please lift them up in prayer...I know that some of you don't know them personally, but our God does and HE is the Great MD!!!

Alright, now that I have gotten all that out...I am tired...See you soon!

Maybe the Glenn's will surprise me and make a detour to East TN to pick me up (They live in Louisiana!!)

Down to the Final Three---American Idol!

2008-05-13T21:53:00.002-04:00

Paula looks beautiful tonight…did they get a new stylist????

Judges, Singers, and Producers Choice are the three songs!

Judges Choice:

David Archuletta : “And So It Goes”—Beautiful voice…He has some range to that young voice of his! Bless his heart, with his dad getting banned from backstage, I know he is pressured…HOWEVER, he did great!

Syesha Mercado: “If I Ain’t Got You”—She looks beautiful! Great dress! She is doing a great job! However, she is really trying too hard to sound like A.Keys, instead of Syesha…Not any orginiallity to the song! She is such an actress…she is going to rock Broadway one day!

David Cook: “First Time Ever I Saw Your Face”—I think he might be nervous…Different it will be!! Wow!! It is great…He is rocking…Very original!! I will be buying this one on Itunes!! Great job!! Randy Jackson is smokin’ something…he is crazy!

Winner of Round One: David Cook—for originality!! (and Cowell too, I guess!)
Singers Choice:

David A: “ With You”—He is so nervous…I think this stuff is finally getting to him. I must be OLD but I can’t understand but about 10% of this song! I don’t about this one….He looks happy and in his element…maybe “daddy dear” not helping him has freed him up a bit. Simon’s comment about the chiwawa (sp?!)/Tiger is hysterical!

Syesha M.: “Fever”—She is using a chair….goodness….STOP ACTING….THIS IS ABOUT SINGING!!!! Her singing sounds great but the dancing is so distracting!!! Im not sure if my husband should be watching this…By the way, that dress is about 3 inches TOO SHORT….I think I am old!!! Sounding like my mom again! Cabaret….as Simon says…is so TRUE!!

David C.:”Dare You to Move”—by SWITCHFOOT—A CHRISTIAN ARTIST!!! Cool Beans!! AWESOME….I am getting chills…in spite of this being a secular show…God STILL gets the Glory!!!! Great job! I am partial to Christian bands however!

Winner of Round Two: Hard Choice….Probably David C.!

Producers Choice:

David A.: “Longer”—Good job…beautiful voice I tell you!!! I just wonder what kind of album he will make? I like this song and he did fantastic…Simon’s comments are hysterical once again!

Syesha M.: “Hit Me Up”—Here she is dancing again…she needs to go to Broadway right now!! Vocally she is great, but she focuses too much on the acting/dancing…I am not commenting any further on her….goodness!

David C.: “I Don’t Want to Miss A Thing”….love this song!!! He is doing great….The Violins are kinda weird and take away from the singing and music…does anyone else feel that way? But, he sure is singing good!!!

Winner Round Three: David Cook!

Winner of the Two Places in the Finals: the TWO DAVIDS!!!

SHOCK and AHHH how sweet!!

2008-05-11T15:43:00.004-04:00

Ok...so my sweet hubbie finally surprised me!! And BOY, did he surprise me real good!!

A little background....I was really not looking forward to this Mother's Day weekend for many reasons...many of them dealing with losing Memaw recently, being away from our own moms, and not being a mom, myself....so I was really dreading it...in fact, had almost forgotten that it was Mother's Day weekend coming up on Thursday night.

After teaching the inservice on Thursday night, Patrick and I came home. I turned the corner from the kitchen and there my MOM and DAD stood saying "Hello, Martha Jane"!!!! I really thought I was either seeing things or hearing voices...it was a crazy and very surreal feeling!!!

So after the shock went away, Patrick told me that he had asked them to come in for Mother's Day!! Do you know what a GREAT husband I have...That had to have been one of the most thoughtful things he has ever done!!

We had a great weekend...Mom helped me with my "going out of business" sale for my jewelry and Patrick and Dad went golfing! On Friday morning, I mentioned to dad that I hated the look of our monkey grass (It looked so dead and nasty!)...So he helped us trim it down with the lawnmower!! What a great picture of the other wonderful man in my life!

I had also mentioned to mom that we need to go have manicures and pedicures Saturday morning...So we did...and we had the best, most pampering, time!!! We were completely worthless after that....Love these pics!!

The only thing I regret is not getting enough pictures of the surprise weekend...I only got a few and not ANY of the entire family!!! I must still be in shock!

Love you mom and dad and thank you so much for making the "dreaded" weekend so special!

Yall have taught me so much and I thank God for what you mean to me!!

Seen any Garbage Trucks Today?

2008-05-08T10:10:00.001-04:00

I ran across this story and it spoke to me...I hope it will speak to you as well!!

Beware of Garbage Trucks
by David J. Pollay
How often do you let other people's nonsense change your mood? Do you let a bad driver, rude waiter, curt boss, or an insensitive employee ruin your day? Unless you're the Terminator, for an instant you're probably set back on your heels. However, the mark of a successful person is how quickly she can get back her focus on what's important.

Sixteen years ago I learned this lesson. I learned it in the back of a New York City taxi cab. Here's what happened. I hopped in a taxi, and we took off for Grand Central Station. We were driving in the right lane when, all of a sudden, a black car jumped out of a parking space right in front of us. My taxi driver slammed on his brakes, skidded, and missed the other car's back end by just inches! The driver of the other car, the guy who almost caused a big accident, whipped his head around and he started yelling bad words at us. My taxi driver just smiled and waved at the guy. And I mean, he was friendly. So, I said, "Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined your car and sent us to the hospital!" And this is when my taxi driver told me what I now call, "The Law of the Garbage Truck." Many people are like garbage trucks. They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of disappointment. As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it. And if you let them, they'll dump it on you. When someone wants to dump on you, don't take it personally. You just smile, wave, wish them well, and move on. You'll be happy you did. So this was it: The "Law of the Garbage Truck."
I started thinking, how often do I let Garbage Trucks run right over me? And how often do I take their garbage and spread it to other people at work, at home, on the streets? It was that day I said, "I'm not going to do it anymore." I began to see garbage trucks. Like in the movie "The Sixth Sense," the little boy said, "I see Dead People." Well, now "I see Garbage Trucks." I see the load they're carrying.
I see them coming to drop it off. And like my Taxi Driver, I don't make it a personal thing; I just smile, wave, wish them well, and I move on. One of my favorite football players of all time, Walter Payton, did this every day on the football field. He would jump up as quickly as he hit the ground after being tackled. He never dwelled on a hit. Payton was ready to make the next play his best. Good leaders know they have to be ready for their next meeting. Good parents know that they have to welcome their children home from school with hugs and kisses. Leaders and parents know that they have to be fully present, and at their best for the people they care about. The bottom line is that successful people do not let Garbage Trucks take over their day. What about you? What would happen in your life, starting today, if you let more garbage trucks pass you by? Here's my bet. You'll be happier. Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets, so...love the people who treat you right. Forget about the ones who don't. Believe that everything happens for a reason. If you get a chance, TAKE IT! If it changes your life, LET IT!

Nobody said it would be easy...They just promised it would be worth it!

Rock -n- Roll OR Rock -n- WRONG?!?!?.... on AI Top 4

2008-05-06T21:21:00.001-04:00

American Idol Final 4

Only two weeks left!! Wow it has flown by!

Rock n Roll PEOPLE…This is going to be great…I hope they really shine tonight…

How funny, that they have now changed the critiquing to after each song…that way poor Paula won’t get confused!!

David Cook—
1st Song: He is doing ok and I can actually “kinda” understand his words tonight!! The mosh pit is driving me crazy! I like him a lot, but I don’t think he has really shown us any personality….Where is it?
2nd Song: Great job…much better than the first song….However, he didn’t really get to “rockin” until the very end of the song…it was sorta “boring” at the beginning! Anyone else agree?

Syesha Mercado—
1st Song: Proud Mary….Hmmmm..Hope this works out for ya, girl…That’s HUGE shoes to fill…Her dancing is KILLING ME….She looks like she needs a pole to go with that number…that is all I am going to say about that! She needs to focus more on the singing and less on the “acting/dancing”. Randy thinks she showed up, Paula thinks she looks like a star, Simon thinks (correctly) that is what a bad version of Tina Turner…
2nd Song: A Change is Gonna Come…She is doing a great job….she is FINALLY focusing on her singing instead of dancing and acting….I am very impressed! She looks beautiful too! She may have just saved herself a spot on the final 3! Are Randy and I watching the same show? Bless her heart with those tears…don’t you know this has to be so much pressure...

Jason Castro—
1st Song: Bob Marley song…How appropriate! He is doing ok…Not really my favorite performance of his! I hope his next song is better! He is a lot better than what he did with that song!
2nd Song: Bob Dylan…I hope he back to himself!! Did he just hum half the first verse??? Jason, do you really want this! He recovered pretty well, but he can’t be doing that sort of this thing at this level of the completion. I think he will be out this week…He didn’t prove that he really wants this….He is not fighting for it, AT ALL!

David Archuleta—
1st Song: Stand By Me…..I love this song!! He is “rockin and rollin”…Beautiful!!! I will be buying this one on ITunes tomorrow!! He will DEFINITELY go to the finals…
2nd Song: “Love Me Tender”….BEAUTIFUL….Makes me want to dance with my sweetie!! I will be buying this one too!! He is my favorite to win the whole thing! He is so consisitent and humble!!! He is a “what you see is what you get” kind of person!

Top Performance:
David Archuleta (BY FAR!!!!)
Going Home:
Jason Castro

Motivation....

2008-05-05T11:57:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone! I can't believe that it has been 5 Days since my last post...Everyday, I have a new post on my list of things to do, but by the time I get around to it, there is nothing on my mind to post about!!!

Well, today is really no different...Since Wednesday, not much has gone on...I did start a new class this weekend @ Tusculum....I love being an instructor there and feel that God has definately put me there...I would have never dreamed that I would be in front of adult students teaching about Elementary Education....Crazy how God works for sure!! Saturday, I let the class out early to work on their projects. So, I came home and got LOTS done!! I am going to be teaching a staff development on learning centers to the School District's Extended School Program teachers this Thursday...So, Saturday I got the planning for that knocked out!!! YIPEE...I love getting things done!!

I need to tell that (love getting things done) to myself today....not really motivated to do anythig here at noon on Monday....Watching the GameShow network and I am still in my PJ's....These shows are so funny..since they date back to the 80's!! The fashion is hysterical!

Well I better run...Hubby is home and wants food!! So I better get motivated!!

Unexpected-ness!!

2008-04-30T21:52:00.002-04:00

Ok...As many of you ventured to my blog last night and this morning, you may have noticed that I didn't post an American Idol blog about the top 5....Well that was because of a crazy couple of days!!

Yesterday, we were at UT hospital all day preparing for the birth of a son for a church family. Baby Nolan was born yesterday @ 11:29pm...He has HLHS (a heart defect) and will be flying out tomorrow to Philadelphia for a first of three surgeries. Please pray for this family (the Stubblefield Family)...God is doing great things and we are anxious for what God has planned for the next curve in this winding road!

Well, after being at the hospital all day yesterday, I fully intended on blogging about AI this morning...Well I woke up in TERRIBLE pain and was taken to the ER this morning. After 3 hours in the ER, I am at home with medicine and lots of sleep!! Thank God for his endless watchcare over us!!! God is so merciful and we give HIM all the glory!!! (Also thank the Lord for some great pain medicine!!!) :)

However, I am watching the results show and I am so sad that Brooke is going home!! She is so beautiful and has such a tender heart....I am going to miss her but I think she will be so successful!!! I can't wait to see when her album comes out...

So, if no babies are born and I don't have an unexpected ER visit, I will be back next week giving you my "not asked for opinions" on those that are left on AI...

Love yall!

"Trunk Show"

2008-04-26T17:16:00.004-04:00

Hello all! Hope you are having a fan-tab-u-lous weekend! We have! It all started when the great state of TN announced that this weekend would be TAX FREE weekend!! Do you know how exciting that is? Especially since the tax is a bloomin' 9.5%!!! Craziness...and the schools have NOTHING to show for it...ok..off my soapbox...anywho...

So yesterday, we decided that we would go ahead and shop for Mother's Day gifts and birthday gifts..since we were already saving 10%!!! Well yesterday after spending 3 hours looking in every giftshop in M'town, we gave up....

So today, after our WONDERFUL bacon egg and cheese biscuits, we decided to try again...Well, we were quite successful, if I do say so myself!! Since our moms do read this blog, I can't give those secrets away....but I was quite successful in another area of my fashion-able life...My PANDORA bracelet...

Yesterday, as we were traveling, I noticed that a local jewelry store was having a "Trunk Show"...well I was quite excited and put that in my memory bank to come back to!! Well, hubbie thought that a "trunk show" was just that..A showing of trunks...the car-kind...He was not at all excited about that...Well, I quickly explained the details, and he still wasn't that excited...I don't see why not?!?! A Pandora bracelet is a gift that keeps on giving...

Well, today I stopped by the trunk show and they were having a special deal...buy $75 worth and you get a free bracelet!!! I am so excited...I can't wait to go in June with my mom to the Mall of America to see the Pandora store....Hopefully they will be having a "trunk show" as well!!!!

Well here is the charms I got today!!

If any of you blogg-ies out there love Pandora as much as me...give me some other charms that you have that you just love...I am slowly builiding my bracelet as my budget (and hubbie) will allow!

Climbing New Heights!! (and a bit on American Idol)

2008-04-23T21:49:00.003-04:00

Mattress Climbing:

After being married for almost 7 years now, we finally decided that we needed a new mattress...My parents decided that a new mattress would make an excellent anniversary gift. Well, we went to the Mattress store yesterday and discovered two important facts:

1. Mattresses are EXPENSIVE---one set (which we DID NOT buy) was almost $2500!!!

2. Mattresses are made thicker now...Hense, we will now have to buy a STEP LADDER to CLIMB into bed....

After the delivery man delivered they mattress set, we took these pictures....my feet don't even touch the floor and I have to literally JUMP onto the bed!!

Enjoy!

American Idol:

This was kind of a shocker...I really thought Jason and Brooke would be bottom two tonight, however, this just proves that America is unpredictible....

Carly Smithson was voted off along with all of her two thousand tattoos....I think she has a beautiful voice and will have a great future in music...I think everyone was really sad about her leaving. They all seem so close and like family!!

On to next week...I can't wait!!

PS...Maybe I can get Patrick to blog sometime this week!! Wouldn't that be cool....comment on some topics he could blog about!

American Idol Top 1/2 Dozen!!

2008-04-22T19:59:00.003-04:00

Live Blogging, here we go!

Ryan mentions the "Toughest Test" yet...wonder why? As if singing Beatles songs TWO weeks in a row wasn't a challenge...what could it be??

I am SOO glad the band is on stage...that is going to be great for the contestants..they don't seem that far removed now!

I think the top six is so talented....

Andrew Lloyd Webber!! How fun and interesting...this is so different for AI! This will test the talent for sure...

Syesha Mercado--The song sounds completely her style...I think she has slightly missed her calling and should go into musical theatre...the acting is perfect, however, I don't think that the "situation" calls for all that...That is just my opinion....her vocals are wonderful, and she would be great in theatre!! She sort of looks like she could be a Ms. America contestant...

A strong performance for sure...she is a favorite of the judges tonight.

Jason Castro---this should be interesting...definately not his style (broadway music!)...ALW comment about the dreadlocks is hysterical...He is one of my favorites and I hope he does well...The song suits his voice very well...and it sounds so different with him singing it...lots better than a "cat"... :) He has such a clear voice and can do so many styles of music...Good job, Jason! Simon's comments are so funny...He is partly right, that it was not his style of music..but Hello! he had no choice!!!

sidenote--the HANDS are killing me people....please take the "AI mosh pit" during broadway week AWAY!!!

Side comment #2...the older lady in the mosh pit surrounded by teeney boppers is hysterical....

Brooke White--Can't wait!!! I just love her and I hope she is really strong tonight so that she can stay around for a while!! She messed up...O Goodness...I have a feeling this might be it for her...I hope not...I really like her and her heart!!! But this is a singing competition...Hopefully America will have mercy!! I hope the judges are nice!! So far is so good...All of them were nice and truthful....by the way, you could hear a pin drop in there!

David Archuletta--He is going to ROCK...I can already tell!!!! He is just a cutie...This is awesome...I will buy this tomorrow...what a modern take on this song...This is what American Idol is about...creativity and being an independent musician...he is doing great...did he forget a word too? too hard to tell...he kinda mumbled in there...these songs are hard tonight...completely out of the box for most of these artists! Despite that, He did great!!

Patrick (my hubbie) has a quote!!!!....are you ready.....

"He was good."

Randy just repeated what I just said...maybe I should be a judge!!!

Carly Smithson--I am glad she picked the second song he suggested...Very good choice...completely her style...Glad her tattoos are covered tonight...would hate to sing about Jesus with some Tattoos all over her....Ok, blogging friends and family...I can't understand a word she is singing (mom again?!?!) anyway, tell me, you know, what this musical is about...I know Jesus...but what about him? She sang good and belted her voice...completely sounded like a modern day song in the midst of all these old broadway hits! She really had some fun tonight!
Loved the T-Shirt!!! how funny!!

David Cook---He has experience in musical theatre..who would have "thunk" it!! The "workshop" footage was funny!! He is doing great..I really didn't expect him to do well...since, most of the time, I can't understand what he sings...He is speaking instead of screaming for a change...very good...might download this one too! One of the best of the night in my opinion!! Very good...

Ryan singing...hmmmm...I am speechless....stick to your day/night job for sure!!!

Top Three:
1. David A.
2. David C.--he might win the whole thing...I am seeing it more and more!
3. Carly Smithson

Bottom Three:
1. Brooke White
2. Syesha Mercado
3. Jason Castro

Oprah Part Two....

2008-04-21T14:52:00.004-04:00

I have felt very convicted about our world and the "Truth" Epidemic that has spread throughout our country (and world)...God has really been dealing with me about sharing with others the ONLY way, the ONLY truth...Jesus Christ.

Yesterday, as we were preparing for a VBS focus in our services, our pastor taught about Truth (the theme for VBS this year) and part of his focus was about what the world considers "truth"...feelings, behaviors, experiences, that it is different for everyone...He shared a verse that I HONESTLY had never read in this context before...Paul wrote to Timothy this letter and in these verses is warning him of the last days and what will be going on...urging him to continue to share the TRUTH to all people in the name of Jesus!

2 Timothy 3:6-7

6They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over weak-willed women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires, 7always learning but never able to acknowledge the truth. (emphasis mine)

This "hit me over the head" as to the influence that Oprah has on our culture and especially women of our world...

Be STRONG and continue to share the TRUTH!!!

More things that make me smile...

2008-04-21T10:55:00.003-04:00

Hello all! All weekend I was reminded of MORE things that make me smile that I had forgotten to put on my list below...

31. Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Biscuit from McDonalds...

32. McD's Sweet Tea

33. Someone cutting our yard this summer so that my hubbie can enjoy his day off!! (It takes hubbie 2 hours to cut the yard and COMPLETELY ruins his only day off....It definately worth the money to hire a youth to cut it!!!)

34. Having a day where I don't have to leave the house and I can stay in my PJ's ALL DAY!!

35. Watching a good movie

36. Being with our church family as we serve the Lord together.

37. My hubbie getting another week of vacation added to his ministry package...YIPEE!!!

38. HUGS!!!

39. Pandora bracelets....my new obsession!!!

40. Vera Bradley...any and all patterns!!!

I hope everyone had a great weekend....We were busy as our church kicked off its Stewardship Campaign for our new additions...a nursery, gym and youth space (PTL!!!!) It was so nice to be with our church family and to be excited about what the Lord is doing with our church!!! Yesterday, we also kicked off a time of prayer for our VBS that will be happening in June...What an awesome event!!! Excitement is all around and that is just WONDERFUL!!!

Have a great week!

Things that make me Smile!!! :)

2008-04-17T19:23:00.003-04:00

Ok, I want to start a list of things that make me smile (and happy!) so here goes:

1. My hubby and those cute laugh lines that he has when he smiles...melts my heart.
2. Music
3. Hearing how Jesus has blessed the lives of others and REALIZING all the blessings that I have...We serve a MIGHTY GOD!!
4. Sunny Days
5. Sleeping Late and having the bed to myself (after hubby goes to work :)
6. Teaching College Students who have such a passion for learning and for teaching!
7. Shopping!!
8. Thinking that in 66 DAYS I will be shopping with my mom AT the MALL OF AMERICA!!!
9. Manicures
10. Pedicures
11. Having a clean house (the cleaning part DOES NOT make me smile, however!)
12. Getting everything on my To-Do List checked off!
13. Getting a haircut! I think that it is definately cheaper than therapy and makes you feel so much better!
14. Dr Pepper
15. Peanut M and Ms
16. Children's Books
17. Children who have a "light bulb" moment when they learn something for the first time
18. Children's Choir at church
19. Our Youth Group
20. The way God is using BTBC to bring others to know more about him
21. Being with Family!
22. Mississippi State Bulldogs!
23. Remembering our College Days
24. Remembering MeMaw and all the funny stories
25. Reading a good book and THE Good Book!!
26. Ebay (especially selling something!!...make good money off of our JUNK!)
27. Playing Board Games with Ms Thelma
28. Thinking about being a mom one day! (and seeing Hubby as a daddy one day! )
29. Watching a good movie.
30. Reading Funny Blogs...everyday!

Have a happy and JOYful rest of the day!

Here is your assignment...Either post a comment on some of your favorite things OR write on your own blog about things that make you happy! Be sure to tell me about it so I will go read it!

The Madness of Our World...

2008-04-17T13:53:00.003-04:00

I have long been leary of Oprah Winfrey and her "new age" worldly way of thinking...She often "adapts" to the religion of whoever she is interviewing and often uses the "melting pot" philosophy of just putting a bunch of different religions together and taking her "favorite" parts and putting them together to suit herself. Lately, I have even become more concerned. She has such an influence on society...Heck, one book, if mentioned on her show, can become an overnight best-seller...Case in point, "The New Earth" by Tolle. Please read the article posted below in the link...Seriously consider how this book and this woman has an impact on your family, those you love, and society-at-large. I am so glad that the media is starting to see the true colors. (Thanks to my friend Leslie for sharing!)

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,351545,00.html

Have a great day!

Comments are welcome!

American Idol Blogging--Final 7

2008-04-15T21:08:00.003-04:00

This blogging thing has become a “tradition” of sorts…Kinda makes watching the show much more interesting!!!

Michael Johns being voted off is still shocking to everyone…That just means that more people need to vote!! Supposedly, every vote counts!!

David Cook’s brother has cancer and is supposed to be in the audience tonight…That is so touching to me!

Mariah Carey is visiting the Idols tonight…Are they singing her songs too? That might be a little scary!!!

YES…they are singing her songs…Oh goodness…we might hear some of the boys belting HIGH notes tonight…Ryan even mentions the “superstar” factor…Hopefully they will show their own styles in their singing…We don’t want to hear Mariah make-overs!!

David Archuleta…Bless his heart…He is so nervous…puberty is talking!!! I think Mariah (and David) has a crush!! He looks so nervous when he is singing…I have always loved this song..He is doing a wonderful job, but I am afraid that by being the first, he will be forgotten!!! I hope not!! Randy mentions the boys singing girl songs…how true…I don’t know how successful this night is going to be for the boys…I think the judges are pleased…Good job David!! I still love him to pieces!!!

Carly Smithson…WHY are WE STILL TALKING about Michael Johns…goodness…get over it…he is gone!!! I think Carly will do a great job..she sings a lot like Mariah…I think its interesting that she is not wearing tank top shirts anymore..maybe the stylist finally caught on that that was not her best look!! She looks great tonight…FINALLY!!! She still looks so serious and mad…Smile, Carly!!! Her husband is freaky looking!! Sorry, Im just not a tattoo fan!! I think it hurts too much to have all those needles around poking you…The judges are saying mediocre…Paula makes no sense..What has she had to drink tonight in that Coke glass!! I just love Simon..he is most of the time “right on the money.”

Is it just me, or does anyone else think that when the idols hold up their number for voting it makes you NOT want to vote for them…They should just stand there and smile…not “beg” for votes…It just looks strange (and a tad bit arrogant) to me.

Syesha Mercado-I wonder if she will “power” her voice like she has done the past few weeks…We know she can sing…but sometimes the “power” is not needed!! There she goes with her power runs…not needed…kinda seems cocky…I don’t know what to think of her!!! She did a good job, but I don’t think she will be my favorite. Magical? I don’t know!!

Brooke White—I can’t wait to see what she sings…HERO!!! This is going to be great!! I just think she is SO SINCERE!!! I think, if I knew her, we would be friends!! On the piano…LOVE IT!!! She is putting her own spin on it…I love it!! I am downloading this song on ITunes ASAP…I just love her style…Paula finally made an “understandable” comment…authentic and “unplugged”…Hamburger Buns and Meat…what in the world…that was a crazy comment…AND, just one more reason to love Brooke…she didn’t put her fingers up for her vote. PREACH IT SISTA!!

Kristy Lee Cook—SHE NEEDS TO GO HOME!!! She should have gone home two weeks ago…UGH!!! AGAIN, why is she wearing something that does not flatter her coloring…goodness…that does NOTHING for her complexion or hair color…Wait..is this a fashion blog? Well, it is right now, because this girl is boring…She is singing ok, but gives no emotions when she sings…She does the same thing every week! B-O-R-I-N-G!!! Mariah got chills, Simon didn’t get chills…how funny, neither did I, Simon!!! Maybe it was just cold in the room, Mariah!

David Cook—It looks like he is going to do something different with the song…It seems to be interesting! He is definitely putting his “rocker” spin on it…I don’t really know what to think of it…it is interesting and kind of cool…but, if I didn’t already know the words to the song, I wouldn’t be able understand the words that he is singing…Maybe I am just old…I am sounding like a “person that shall remain anonymous” that says she can’t understand anything that these rocker people sing (m.o.m) I think he did stay true to himself and did something totally different and original with the song…Very creative!! Most Creative of the Night!!! There is his brother…Bless his heart…I think that that is awesome that he could come and see his brother sing…David is in tears…How moving!

Jason Castro—He has such a beautiful, clear voice!! So easy to listen to. He is doing great…I like him better than David, in that I can understand his words…There I go again, sounding like my m.o.m!! Love you mom! He did great and remained true to his own self!!!

Simon said it best…The guys stole the show tonight..completely unexpected!! I thought the girls would do better than the boys did!

Top Three:
1. David Cook (creatively)
2. Jason Castro (vocally)
3. David Archuleto (he is just plain cute as a button!)

Going home: KRISTY LEE COOK…Please!!

Any comments? Remember, you don’t have to be a “blogger” or have a blogger account, you can comment as anonymous and make a comment as well…Hope to hear from you soon!

What a Weekend...

2008-04-14T13:10:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone...I can't believe the weekend is over...they go by so fast!!!

This past weekend was wonderful. On Friday, I went with some church friends to a "Women of Joy" conference in Gatlinburg, TN. We had a wonderful time being together and worshipping the Lord. We got to hear from the hearts of Priscilla Shirer, Kay Arthur, and Liz Curtis Higgs. It was such a wonderful blessing that God spoke to ME through each person...God is urging me to give EVERYTHING to Him...Every situation that I am trying to control, every relationship that I am in, EVERYTHING...I was so blessed to be a part of such a wonderful weeknd...

They also announced that next year's Women of Joy will feature Kirk Cameron (OH MY!!!...I had the hugest crush on him), Travis Cottrell, and Casting Crowns....How exciting!!!! I have already pre-registered!!!!

On Saturday, I met Patrick at the College Hangout Weekend. He had rented a cabin for our college students for a weekend getaway! And boy, was this cabin nice!!! State of the art everything...In home theater, pool table, foosball table, hot tub, beautiful furnishings!! Nice...

Here are some pics for you to enjoy!!

Playing Putt-Putt!!

My hubby and our two "sons"!!

The boys playing Rock Band on the GIANT movie screen! (Notice, Patrick is singing!!)

My hubby...the "Guitar Hero"

the boys sitting down for a nice "homecooked" meal...made by me!!! :)

See you tomorrow for Idol Blogging Live!!! Can't wait!

Video for Shout to the Lord!!

2008-04-11T12:42:00.001-04:00

Enjoy!!

American Idol Results Show...SURPRISES!!!!

2008-04-10T20:59:00.002-04:00

LIVE BLOG OF AI-RESULTS SHOW!!
I decided I would live blog this episode since so much has been going on this week with AI!! Enjoy!

Mandisa is there…I LOVE HER!!! I can’t wait to see her in concert in May!

Why do they have to show ALL THE HIGHLIGHTS of last night…BORING!!!

Speaking of last night…I am THRILLED that they sang “Shout to the Lord”…. I know that they took the name of Jesus out of the first line, but just having the song sung on National Television is HUGE!!!! I know God is doing something BIG!!!!

The down-er of the night was Terri Hatcher singing a Carrie Underwood song..what is up that??? TERRIBLE…This is a singing show right?!?!

They have raised over 60 MILLION dollars…I wonder if ANY of that will go to the Hurricane Katrina areas of the Mississippi Gulf coast????

THEY ARE SINGING Shout To the Lord!!!! I have chills and they included JESUS!!!! YES!!! God is GREAT!!! He is up to something HUGE!!! I have chills and shed tears during the song…I amazed at how God works for the GOOD through ALL things!!!

Brooke White is SAFE!!! YES!!! I can’t wait to hear her sing again next week!

David Archaletta is SAFE…GREAT!!!! I just love him…He seems stressed though…I hope all of this is not getting to him too bad!

Jordin Sparks performance is weird…I am just not in to that type of music…But whatever!!! Maybe it will be over soon! Are they dating…They have some chemistry! Look at all of the awards!! Good for her…One Million “downloads” must now be the new “100 Million Records Sold”…Computer age is changing everything!!

Jason Castro is SAFE…good thing…Love him too!!

Kristy Lee Cook is SAFE…WHAT??!!? I think she should have been in the bottom three!

All of the Presidential Candidates making their speeches…how wonderful!!! ;)

Michael Johns going home…WOW!! I am shocked….I really didn’t think he would be the one!! Syesha, Carly and Kristy Lee were my bottom three!! He didn’t do the worst for sure!!
I am really glad that someone is going home this week…Last year when they kept everyone, I felt that was a letdown!!!
What will next week hold?!?!?

My Man!!!!

2008-04-09T13:06:00.002-04:00

I loved getting the chance to talk about Patrick....I am honored to be married and love him the rest of my life!!!

1. Who is your man? Patrick :)
2. How long have you been together? We have known eachother since 1998 (10 years!!!) but have been together since Sept. 1999!
3. How long did you date? well, exactly how long is hard to say...we broke up about 3 times...the last time we dated for 9 months before becoming engaged.
4. How old is your man? 30
5. Who eats more? hehe!! Patrick
6. Who is taller? Patrick
7. Who sings better? I think i would have to say me on that one...no comments!!
8. Who is smarter? both of us!!
9. Whose temper is worse? mine :)
10. Who does the laundry? I do
11. Who takes out the garbage? Patrick
12. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Patrick
13. Who pays the bills? Patrick
14. Who is better with the computer? Me
15. Who mows the lawn? neither...We have one of our youth mowing for us this summer!!!
16. Who cooks dinner? Me
17. Who drives when you are together? Patrick
18. Who pays when you go out? Patrick
19. Who is most stubborn? ME!!!
20. Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Patrick
21. Whose parents do you see the most?I'd say we see them both about the same
22. Who kissed who first? He kissed me first =)
23. Who asked who out? He asked me out
24. Who proposed? Patrick...At his home church!!
25. Who is more sensitive? Me
26. Who has more friends? we're both blessed in that area!

Live Blogging on American Idol!

2008-04-08T22:10:00.001-04:00

Live blogging on American Idol…

Here we go…

Michael Johns---His song was good, however, he had no originality…He sounded just like the original recording…Randy had a point…the competition is about singing not dreams…Hmmm…I think he is a good singer and will last until next week!

Syesha Mercado—Fantasia Song…Hmmm..You couldn’t find something else more “inspiring”..I like Fantasia and I think she has a great story…but that song…kinda “cheesy”…I think Syesha has a great voice…I think she is getting better week by week…The microphone must be messed up…I am having trouble hearing her over the background vocals…Note to Syesha…don’t talk back…no attitude please…there are plenty of people want to be where you are…no attitude needed.

Jason Castro—LOVE THE SONG!!!! I love this kid…he seems so humble…I have read from some Saddleback Friends that he is a Christian and has attended their church and is a very nice, humble guy. He could record this song right now and be successful!! Go Jason!!! Good reviews from the judges!!! Good job!! YES!!!! All three agree..what a miracle!!!

I AM SICK OF hearing about ITunes…UGH…commercials inside the show drive me crazy….

Kristy Lee Cook—Country song..good choice…I don’t know if she is doing the song justice..she doesn’t have a strong enough voice…Fashion note…why does she always wear colors that wash her out…I am blonde with light complexion…I would NEVER wear Gold!!!! The back up singers helped her…but I don’t think they saved her!! Bottom three this week! Paula’s comment about the pitch problems to Randy is so true…Do they just have two comments each that they rotate..Nice comments from the judges…However, she is not at the same level to compete with the others.

David Cook—I have never heard this song…so this should be interesting…I don’t like his haircut…but oh well…they didn’t ask me. UGH!!! He is not doing good…Of all the songs…why did he choose a song where we can’t understand the words?? The white jacket makes him look like Michael Jackson..He needs the silver black glove and he will be set…maybe he can borrow one from Paula…see my last AI post! I agree with Randy…not strong AT ALL!! Simon just commented on the white jacket…How funny!! I love that I think like Simon…how ironic!

Carly Smithson—QUEEN song!! How fun! She is so strong vocally…I just can’t get past the body tattoos. You can tell that she really feels this song…However, it feels like she is mad when she sings!! Hmmmm…I don’t know about this! Randy…with his “pitchy” comment…good grief…think of something else.

Side note..Paula’s boobs are falling out of her top!! Good grief…that needs to be blurred out!!

David Archuleta—Angels song…He is playing the piano.,…Fun!!! I haven’t seen him do that before.. he is doing great….I really like this song..He has such a great voice….He is going to go to the Finals, I just know!!! I would buy his record TODAY!!!! He will get my vote tonight!! LOVED THE SONG!! Completely agree with the judges!!! Simon is definitely being “nit-picky”…get over it!!

ITUNES again!!! UGH!!!

Brooke White—CAROL KING…ooooh yeah!!! You’ve got a Friend!!! Good deal…Good way to end the night!! She ROCKS!!! Her dress is super cute and her shoes are HOT!! Her and David at the end….She might get my vote tonight too!!! Randy is smokin’ crack…she did great! I love Brooke and want her to win so bad!!!

Well that concludes my commentary….leave your comments…It overall was a great night…The Idol gives Back episode is tomorrow night…I don’t know if I will watch the whole thing, but Thursday they will have the results show..and I will definitely tune in!!
Have a great day!

New Blog Design!!!

2008-04-07T10:04:00.002-04:00

So..what do you think??? Don't you just love the new design of our blog...Jennisa did such a great job...please visit her at www.jennisajoy.blogspot.com to see all of her amazing work...she is also a preacher's wife that is staying home with her children and does this for extra income...She did a great job!! Leave comments and let us know what you think!!

Back to a "New" Normal...

2008-04-05T19:50:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone...First of all, THANK YOU so much for the prayers and concern over the past week...Please know that we have felt the presence of God in and through every event of the week!!! He has been SO REAL to us and we thank you for going to Him on our family's behalf!!

Patrick and I left Southaven today and traveled back to Morristown to start a "new" normal!

We arrived home tonight with over 20 sympathy cards and memorial donations in our mailbox....our church family and extended family have been wonderful...it really humbled us to see the compassion that everyone has extended to us.

We got to spend the entire week in Mississippi with our family and spent the nights with PapPaw...what an honor...The week was filled with wonderful memories (both old and new)...

We spent many hours talking about Memaw and all of her funny stories!! She really made those around her laugh and feel good....A cheerful heart IS good medicine...she always made people feel better just by being around her...

We also spent the week running errands, shopping, and having GREAT meals together...Memaw would have been right in the middle of it all!!

I am so thankful for the influence that Memaw and PapPaw have had on my husband's life...After spending so much time with PapPaw this week, I can see PapPaw's "finger-prints" all over my husband's life....What an honor it is to be a part of this family...I carry the honor proudly...I can only pray that their influences will live on in our children!

Please continue to pray for the family...PapPaw will begin "new normal" tomorrow and needs strength to get through these hard days ahead...Patsy (Patrick's mom) will go back to work Monday and will begin getting on with life...even though her heart is with her daddy and with the wonderful memories of her mother....
Love to all,
MJ and Patrick

God is so good...

2008-03-30T13:30:00.002-04:00

God has been so good to answer our prayers during this time...Here is His story of Faithfulness...

On Friday night, I had to teach a class at Tusculum from 6-10pm...Patrick went to G'ville with me...during one of our breaks, Patrick called his family and they said that the doctors had said that it would be a day or two before Memaw passed away. After he told me this, I decided that I would go ahead and give the class their exam to finish at home and email it to me...I felt like we needed to go ahead and leave. As we were driving back to Morristown, Patrick decided that we would just wait until the morning (6am) to leave. We decided to go ahead and go to bed...After two hours of tossing and turning, Patrick turned to me and said "I think we need to go ahead and get on the road...We can make it there by 7am if we leave now." We left M'town at 12:45 and drove through the night...We went to the hospital and saw Memaw and Pappaw at 6:45am...We got to visit with Memaw and tell her how much she means to us and that we loved her...Pappaw was so thrilled to see us. After visiting we went to Patrick's house and surprised his parents...We visited with them, and at 8:30am the phone rang...The nurses were calling us to the hospital. We arrived at the hospital and Memaw had passed away around 8:30am...We felt so blessed to have seen her alive one more time...God directed our path and led us to Southaven to share the last moments of Memaw's life with her...

Please continue to pray for our family...We have lost a fundamental part of our family..She always made us laugh and smile...God has been so faithful to her and to our family and we give HIM all the praise and glory.

We miss Memaw but are ASSURED that we will see her again!!

We are Praising Through The Storm!

2008-03-28T21:52:00.003-04:00

"Praise You In This Storm" by Casting Crowns

I was sure by now

God You would have reached down

And wiped our tears away

Stepped in and saved the day

But once again,

I say "Amen",

and it's still raining

As the thunder rolls

I barely hear Your whisper

through the rain"I'm with you"

And as Your mercy falls

I raise my hands

and praise the God who gives

And takes away

And I'll praise You in this storm

And I will lift my hands

For You are who You are

No matter where I am

And every tear I've cried

You hold in Your hand

You never left my side

And though my heart is torn

I will praise You in this storm

I remember when

I stumbled in the wind

You heard my cry to you

And you raised me up again

My strength is almost gone

How can I carry on

If I can't find You

But as the thunder rolls

I barely hear You whisper through the rain"I'm with you"

And as Your mercy falls

I raise my hands and praise the God who gives

And takes away

I lift my eyes unto the hills

Where does my help come from?

My help comes from the Lord

The Maker of Heaven and Earth

Sweet Memaw!

2008-03-27T18:58:00.004-04:00

The past couple of days have been VERY hard. Patrick's dear sweet Memaw has been battling Multiple Sclerosis for over 26 years and has recently had a bout with cancer and kidney functions...She had been receiving dialysis for a while...The doctors told Pappaw last night that the dialysis was not working anymore and recommended that he stop treatments. The doctors have given Memaw about 3-5 days to live. We are trying to settle things here in Tennessee so that we can leave ASAP...I am finishing a class Saturday and we plan to leave after that. It is so hard being here when our hearts are in room #530 in Mississippi. Our hearts are with Pappaw, who has LOVED this sweet woman for over 60 years! For the past 26 years he has selflessly loved her and given his all for her! His and her relationship has always been a model for Patrick and I...how neither one ever complained about serving each other...They are the most "in love" couple I have ever met...not just by the way that they "tell" it but by the way that they have both "shown" it! Our hearts are with Patsy (Patrick's mom) who being an only child is already missing her mom and trying to take care of her dad...She has had the BEST mom to model after for her own children...What a legacy! Our hearts are with Liz (Patrick's sister) who is dealing with the situation and remembering Memaw the way she used to be..."Fiesty" as Memaw described herself just this past Valentine's Day. Liz is knowing that Memaw will not be there for important days anymore (birthdays, wedding, etc)...they had birthdays that were days apart. Our hearts are also on the memories...the wonderful memories...of Memaw...We got to go see her Valentines Day Weekend...It was by far the best visit we had had in a long time...she "perked" up for us and our visit was one we will never forget. Our hearts are with a "great-grandchild" that she will never see...We have been trying to get pregnant for a while and wanted so bad to be pregnant so that we could tell her about the sweet "angel" that is going to come our way...But I have a feeling that when Memaw arrives in her promised land in heaven, that she will "Have a Little Talk with Jesus" about this situation...

She is the best grandmother to my Patrick and sweet Liba...Her influence is one that will have lasting effects!

Memaw, Thank You for Giving to the Lord!!! We are lives that are changed!!!

I dreamed I went to heaven And you were there with me;

We walked upon the streets of gold Beside the crystal sea.

We heard the angels singing Then someone called your name.

We turned and saw a young man running And he was smiling as he came.
And he said, "Friend you may not know me now."

And then he said, "But wait, You used to teach my Sunday School When I was only eight.

And every week you would say a prayer Before the class would start.

And one day when you said that prayer, I asked Jesus in my heart."
Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am a life that was changed.

Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am so glad you gave.
Then another man stood before you And said,

"Remember the time A missionary came to your church And his pictures made you cry.

You didn't have much money, But you gave it anyway. Jesus took the gift you gave

And that's why I'm here today."
Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am a life that was changed.

Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am so glad you gave.
One by one they came Far as the eye could see.

Each life somehow touched By your generosity.

Little things that you had done, Sacrifices made,

Unnoticed on the earth In heaven, now proclaimed.
And I know up in heaven You're not supposed to cry

But I am almost sure There were tears in your eyes.

As Jesus took your hand And you stood before the Lord.

He said, "My child, look around you. Great is your reward."
Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am a life that was changed.

Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am so glad you gave.
Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am a life that was changed.

Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am so glad you gave.

American Idol Thoughts--Do I need to wear my gloves?

2008-03-25T21:46:00.003-04:00

Ok...before I start on my American Idol thoughts...we HAVE to get this out of the way...

What was up with Paula Abdul and her "Michael Jackson/Thriller-ish" Gloves...It was completely distracting and when she would comment on the contestants, I would have to look away from the screen...that is how disturbing this was to me. Makes me wonder what was in her Coke glass?

Ok...top 3 performances of the night:

David Cook---He has a GREAT shot of winning the whole competition...he did great tonight. Patrick said that he reminds him of the lead singer of Third Day (both looks and vocals)..We would love to hear him sing "I'll Be" by Edwin McCain...Wouldn't that be HIS song!!!!

David Archuleta--What more can I say..He is fantastic. Even though I had NO idea about the song....He did a great job..like "Michael Jackson" said...he could sing the phone book!

MY FAVORITE--Brooke White--She can sing anything!! Even though she had a mess up at the beginning..the true sign of professionalism was to continue and, That she did!! I hope she continues to have that sweet spirit and continues to shine showing us her true self...she is so good!!

I can't wait to see what they will sing next week...I hope we see more originality and better song choice next week!!

Have a great rest of the week!

Excitement...

2008-03-24T11:18:00.003-04:00

Hello all! Hope you are having a fabulous Monday! I am so excited for a number of reasons...which include:

** Getting a substancial amount of money back on our tax return plus up to $1200 rebate for the Stimulus package thing-a-ma-jig!! I definately don't understand the economy but I am glad we can benefit by getting money!!
**God is so faithful...ever since we decided to rip up our credit cards and start going to a cash only (Dave Ramsey) plan...God has been so faithful to provide...We have always marveled at God's faithfulness during our married life, but since living the "Ramsey/Cash Only" way, it has been amazing...we have PAID off over 1/2 of our debt in 2 months!!! This type of provision can only come from our great "accountant"...God!!!!
**Mom and I are planning a girls only trip to the Mall of America !!! We are so excited about going!!! We have done some research and discovered: the mall is over 4 miles of shops, it can fit over 20 statue of liberties inside, it has an amusement park in it, and 520 shops!! Can we say "Paradise"...Now, I know, you are thinking...isn't she trying to pay off debt...why would she go there...well, Mom and I are saving and setting money aside, so that this too, can be debt free!!
We are so excited and I have already started losing sleep over this trip!!! :)
**In a week, we get to see Memaw and Papaw (Patrick's grandparents)...Memaw has been very sick and is in the hospital...We can not wait to see her and cheer her up a little...After seeing them ,we are heading to Gatlinburg to spend the weekend with my family in a cabin...fun times!!

Well have a wonderful week...

by the way, if you read this leave me a comment..I would hear from you!

Happy Easter!

2008-03-23T20:58:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone! I hope you have had an excellent Easter! Celebrating the Risen Savior today has been awesome! Our church went to two services today..one at 8AM and another at 10:15! We have been at church all day but what a great day it was...we also enjoyed a DELICIOUS meal at the Riddle's...we ate good!! Both of us are miserable now and deciding to diet starting tomorrow!

We hope you have a wonderful week...

Motown Madness!!

2008-03-11T16:26:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone...God did awesome things this past weekend with our Motown Madness weekend...11 churches, over 500 students, 15 decisions....WONDERFUL!!! Here are some pics for you to enjoy!!!

Patrick and Me

Our Amazing Group!!

Our "Honorary" Member of Motown Madness...Blake...isn't he cute!!

Hello...I am terrible at this!

2008-03-06T17:10:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone...I hope you are doing great on this Thursday afternoon....I am getting ready to head over to begin Motown Madness..The weekend Disciple Now that several churches in the area host...my hubby has worked so hard...It will be great to see how God uses this weekend to reveal himself. I will post pictures soon!

Since my last post, which might I add, was of the incredible singer of the family, we have been so busy....

We have enjoyed traveling to Atlanta for Premier's Regional Conference and had a wonderful visit with my parents while we were there...Also, the jewelry was beautiful...

During February, we traveled back to MS to visit Patrick's sweet memaw and papaw...Memaw was in the hospital with another complication of her MS...She is such an inspiration to us all...never complains and always makes us smile and laugh...Even though we were there to cheer her up, she was a good dose of medicine for us!!!

Recently, we enjoyed a trip to Cincinnati to a National Youth Ministries Conference...One of the highlights was to hear Tony Dungy speak...We also stood in line after his speech to get an autograph, but because the weather was so nasty he had to leave earlier than expected...I thought I could put pics on here, but the internet is being crazy!! Maybe the next post!!

Until next time,
MJ and PA

Patrick's solo in church...Enjoy!

2008-01-14T16:18:00.001-05:00

Excitement!!!

2007-10-17T23:59:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone...Wow...I am so excited....lots of reasons why...so here is my list:

1. I am a child of the King!!! I am loved unconditionally and saved forever!!!
2. I am FINALLY feeling better...besides a crazy "hormonal" headache, I am finally feeling like my old self....and I do STRESS...OLD!!!
3. My parents are coming in tomorrow (actually today, now) and we are going to Pigeon Forge to spend the weekend...YIPEE...no stress...lots of shopping...and GREAT food...
4. We have a new "toy"...Patrick had to get a new laptop for work, so we got it in two days ago and we love it...wireless internet...fast processor...WOW!!! (I think I like it more than him...not surprising, since I spend WAY more time on here than he does!!! :))
5. I am turning 30 soon..I know that sounds like a crazy thing to be excited about, but 30 HAS GOT to be better than 29!!!!
6. Next weekend, I get to go to Gatlinburg (I know twice in a week!) to scrapbook with my Creative Memories friend, Cheryl and 35 other people...7 cabins, FULL of women scrapbooking...crazyness!!! It will be so much fun...Hopefully I will get lots done and not have to spend a lot of money..even though we will be staying right down the road from the scrapbooking superstore!!!

I am sure there are lots of other reasons..I will continue the list after I think of some other great reasons to be excited....to be continued!

What a weekend!!!

2007-10-15T12:39:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone...sorry for it being so long from the last post...things have been crazy here...another surgery and recovery and also a WONDERFUL trip to MS for the MSU/UT game...

We decided a couple of months ago that we would love to take some of our UT students/fans to MSU with us to see the game...we wound up renting a 15 passenger van and loading it up with 12 of our students (and us) for a road trip! We had a great time showing them the campus and being back at MSU...Here are some pics for you to enjoy!

This is all of us in front of the enterance to MSU....LOVE IT!!!

This is all of us with the staduim in the background....What a memory!!!

This was Patrick and I in front of the BSU...a special place for us...this is where we met and became friends!!! He used to save a seat for me every Tuesday night for Priority!! Those were the days...what memories!! It was fun being able to share MSU with everyone...

Busy-ness!!

2007-10-03T14:18:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone...I hope you all are having a wonderful week! We are enjoying the week without ANY doctor appointments!!!! It has been a very restful week...I have finally been able to cook and clean for a change...I know that sounds weird to most that I am excited about that, but I haven't been able to do any of that in about 3-4 weeks!! We also have enjoyed our front porch this week...every evening we go out and sit in our rocking chairs and discuss life...The weather is just perfect for it!! As we are enjoying the week, we realize that starting this weekend, it won't let up until after Christmas!!! Craziness!

Speaking of Christmas...it will be here before we know it...We have emailed our Christmas lists to the parents...as we were making them, we realized that we don't need for a thing...God has blessed us in so many ways...I hope that we all focus on that this holiday season.

We are looking forward to going to MS next weekend to enjoy the MSU/UT game...we are taking 14 college students with us...It will be a great road trip...who knows who will win??!?!

We are also looking forward to Thanksgiving with the Alexander Family...That is always so much fun to all be together and count our blessings!!!

Well I better run...gotta go get ready for church.

Love yall!
MJ

Pictures that I would like to forget.... :)

2007-09-23T23:38:00.000-04:00

Ok...As promised here are the pics that my friend Suzi (who btw, is a trooper and has battled breast cancer this year and WON!!!) took of me and Patrick at the hospital....I love the ones with other people in them but I can't believe how terrible I look...I wish I could have worn make-up but rules are rules....

Here is Patrick being "entertained" with the TV in my room...ESPN of course....

btw...someone asked me tonight when they were looking at this picture...is this a mammogram machine....how funny!!!

Here is Patrick in the waiting room after I went back chowing down on a Pop Tart and Coke...He is fasting from Mountain Dew....for 40 DAYS!!! I am so proud of him!! Here is my dear friend Suzi....Don't we look cute...what a year we have both had...but we have come through it stronger....I am so proud to call her my friend...she is such an encouragement to me!!

Here I am about to go back for the surgery...look happy don't I...I can't tell if it was me or the happy juice!!! :)

Hope yall enjoyed!! Love yall!

Recovery...and Blessed with GREAT news!!!

2007-09-22T16:48:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone...Well I am well on my way to a full recovery....I had surgery on Wednesday to repair a "mild case of endometriosis"...I can't imagine what a severe case would be like...It was terrible pain...also they found that I had some small fibroid polyps on my uterus, so those are gone now!! I am well on my way to being a new woman!!! Hopefully, a baby will be in our new future too!! We shall see what the Good Lord will bless us with...

The surgery was a great success....We had many visitors waiting with Patrick and my parents in the waiting room...We are so blessed with such wonderful church members...they are part of our family...When we got home, the phone rang off the wall with friends and family...I am SOOO blessed...Here is a picture of some beautiful flowers I got...They are still so pretty!

Tomorrow is my first BIG adventure post-surgery...CHURCH...I can't wait to see everyone and hear what God has to say tomorrow...

I will post some more pics on here later that a friend took of us at the hospital...too cute..can't wait for you to see them!!!

Props to Patrick and my parents...they are WONDERFUL!!! Patrick has been a wonderful nurse..I have told him lots that he has learned from the BEST....his PapPaw who has been taking care of Memaw for years....I have THE BEST husband in the world...my parents, who came up for the surgery did a great job of playing nurse too...they answered the phone, the door, and prepared meals like pros...WOW...Thanks!!!

Thanks for all the prayers...I have definately felt them!!

Love yall!

The Craziness of this Life....

2007-09-18T14:13:00.001-04:00

Hello blog world...Welcome to our first of many (hopefullly!) blogs!! I am very excited about this since many of our friends and family are so far away from us.

Patrick and I live in TN where he is the associate pastor of a local church and I own my own jewelry business! We have been married 6 1/2 years and hope to have children one day really soon! We will keep you updated on that!!! :)

Tomorrow will be a big day as I face surgery to repair endometriosis...please keep me in your prayers...also, pray for Patrick (and my mom and dad) as they play nurse!!

We are looking forward to keeping you up to date with all of our adventures....

Hopefully the next entry will be alot more interesting!

Love yall
MJ