Does anybody watch...

Wife Swap or Nanny 911? Jeremy and I have watched an episode of each today and we are absolutely appalled at how people live and behave!!! Before you all think that I am being self-righteous, I will say that I am far from being a perfect wife and could improve in several areas. And since we don't even have children, I probably shouldn't say anything about other people's parenting skills. However, it really just gets under my skin big time to know that people really do live the way that I saw today. Any thoughts on this?

Merry Christmas!

And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Now there were in the same country living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel of the Lord said to them, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:

"Glory to God in the highest,

And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!"

~Luke 2: 7-14

It's Almost Christmas

For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
~ Isaiah 9:6

Christmas Books and Presents

As I wrote about in a previous post, I am a huge advocate for reading to your children. So I wanted to recommend some wonderful Christmas books I have come across. Go pick up one of these to read before Christmas arrives or to give as a gift!

1. The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
2. Dream Snow by Eric Carle (a wonderful author!)
3. If You Take a Mouse to the Movies by Laura Numeroff (check out her other great books too!)
4. Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree by Robert Barry
5. Bear Stays Up for Christmas by Karma Wilson (she is another great author to check out. The artist Jane Chapman also does beautiful work. www.karmawilson.com)
6. Humphrey's First Christmas by Carol Heyer (this will touch your heart!)
7. Merry Christmas, Big Hungry Bear! by Don and Audrey Wood

I am sure there are many other wonderful Christmas books out there. These are just the ones I have read and come across recently.

In addition to buying books as gifts, you should check out Toadally Toys. They carry fun, educational toys that you might not find in other stores. They are connected to Teacher Tools on the Circle right past the post office. Brain Quest also makes wonderful products too. The Brain Quest cards would make fantastic stocking stuffers. Michael's also has a decent sized section of cute stocking stuffers for $1 for a range of ages! There are also some $5 items.

If any of you have gift giving ideas please share with us!

Now that the Christmas season is upon us.....

I am guessing that many of you will be having family and friends over to your homes. And that means that you will want your house to be neat and clean. If that is the case, you will also want your carpet to look its best too. Well, look no further! My daddy and his boss started a carpet cleaning business that they do on the side. My daddy, brother and husband do most of the cleaning themselves.
I know a lot of people don't like to have their carpet cleaned because of having to wait for it to dry. Well, there is good news for you! They do dry carpet cleaning! It is the coolest thing. I have watched daddy and Jeremy clean our carpet. First they sprinkle some powder onto the carpet, which they call a Host Sponge (the company/product). It is natural and environmentally friendly and is safe for pets and people. Is is EPA Green Sealed Certified. Then they use their unique Host cleaning machines to brush the Sponges into the carpet and last they use their vacuum. There are more details I could give in how it gets rid of your soiled spots, allergens, etc. but I am trying not to be too long-winded!
Actually, I will wrap it up now. If you are interested in having them clean your carpet or just have some more questions please call or email. You can reach Jeremy at 701-8116 or jlee7@sw.rr.com. My daddy is David Andrews and he can be reached at 805-4724.
Thanks so much!

Wiregrass Travel

As most of you remember from a previous post, Jeremy has started a travel agency with Cruise Planners. The name of his business is Wiregrass Travel. Not only can he book cruises, he can book any vacation you might have in mind as he is a full service agent.
Please check out the website at http://www.getawaywiregrass.com/ We are going to be updating the site with some blogs about vacations we have taken, as well as information regarding specific travel destinations, so keep checking back! Be sure to sign up for the mailing list too. The phone line is being installed on Wednesday (I think) and will be up and running by Thursday hopefully.
We would both greatly appreciate you letting Jeremy help plan your next vacation. Spread the word to your family and friends too! Thanks so much!

ps- Nothing to do with travel, but The White House (which is downtown on Morgan St.) is having an open house on Tuesday from 10-7 or 8ish. The owner is our reading coach at school. She has such cute stuff and great deals. And I think she said she will have some things on sale for the open house. I am also pretty sure there will be refreshments too, so go check it out!

Wiregrass Christian Family

If you haven't picked up a copy of this magazine, you need to find one. I'm not sure how long it has been published (I am thinking within the last couple of years). Our church has copies (probably because one of the publishers goes to FBC), as do probably most churches in this area. Many local businesses (such as The White House) have copies as well. And did I mention that they are free?
The November/December issue has some wonderful articles. Dana McCain wrote a great piece on Christmas music. Nathan Lumbatis (who is a counselor with Dothan Behavioral Medicine) has an article about teaching children to be selfless this time of year. These are just two of several articles that I have read today.
So when you are out and about shopping this week or at your church, see if you can find this magazine and pick yourself up a copy. I promise you will be glad you did!

This time of year....

is when all I want to do is stay in my pj's or lounging clothes all day, covered in a blanket and watch movies or read a good book. Especially now that it is super cold outside! I just love the holiday season and all that goes along with it. Except for maybe the financial aspect. Which, really should not be the focus I know. Anyway, what is it though that makes me want to do nothing, but what I listed above (along with spending time with family and friends) right now? I don't know if I am doing a good job conveying what I am thinking and feeling right now. But if you get what I am trying to say or happen to feel the same way, let me know!

ps- I did it again today. I was flipping through the radio stations and heard Mariah Carey singing "Oh Holy Night". I had to listen; I had no choice. It is one of my all time favorites.

Well, I am doing exactly what I said I would not do....

I am listening to Christmas music before the Thanksgiving holidays have passed! I love Christmas music just as much as the next person, perhaps even more. But I just have this thing about not listening to it until after Thanksgiving. And when at the beginning of November, a FL radio station started playing all Christmas music all the time, I was a bit peeved. Too soon people!
But today, I have done it. I bought The Christmas Sessions by Mercy Me (on sale of course!) today at Lifeway and have been listening to it while cleaning. I have really enjoyed listening to it. They have an original song called "Joseph's Lullaby" that is just beautiful.
In my defense though, I went with my SIL and nephew to watch Santa's arrival at the mall last night (which seems soon too). And today I went with her and my niece and nephew to story time and Barnes and Noble to listen to a condensed version of The Nutcracker. The dancers from SEADAC also performed a few dances from their upcoming performance. They were so good! And not to mention the fact that Christmas decorations, clothes, books, etc. have been displayed for a few weeks now. So it's hard not to listen to the music, watch the movies, and decorate! (read Ann Marie's blog for more on decorating!)
I guess I just feel like that Thanksgiving gets the shaft sometimes. And I love Thanksgiving! I love being with my family, eating way too much food, watching the Macy's parade, and remembering that I really do have much to be thankful for.

So, ya'll know I love a good deal right?

I am pretty sure I have posted before on finding good deals. And I am pretty sure that I have also told ya'll that Jeremy says, "It's not a good deal if you don't need it." Typical male response. Anyway, I just wanted to share a few bargains I have come across recently. There are so many good sales right now and will be probably through the holidays. So please feel free to share with me your good finds.
First, I found on clearance at Target these adorable, flouncy skirts (I got the other in black. And I promise, it is not an obnoxious print in person like it is on the screen!) for $3.24 a piece! I was so excited. Of course they were regularly only $12.99, but still. You cannot beat three dollars and twenty four cents.
At Barnes and Noble, I found this The Polar Express gift set which contained the book (hardback might I add), the jingle bell from Santa's sleigh, a both a cassette and CD reading of the story all for $9.98! Again, I could not pass this up. (I also got the DVD at Target on sale for $12.99 for my niece and nephew. It is the 3-D version with 4 pair of glasses. It has the original theatrical version too.)
New York and Company always does a great sale. (Does anybody else still say Lerner? And have I asked this question before?) I got a cute sweater on clearance for $7.99 that was originally $36.95 I think. I probably didn't need it, but I bought it anyway.
And finally at The Limited, I bought a cami on sale for $9.99. I love to wear their camis under some of my shirts, but I refuse to pay $24.50 for one of them! So I get excited when they go on sale. But it's only certain colors and styles. So this time I got the red tank.
Well, I hope you all have enjoyed reading about my deals. And sorry I had nothing better to blog about! Actually, I have several topics in my head and have for months. But every time I sit down to blog, this kind of stuff is all I can manage to get out!

Bon Voyage!

If ya'll thought that the title of this blog was a sarcastic or witty comment about our nation then you are wrong! (although I have said my fair share and more of my opinion today). Anyway, this blog is actually going to be informative in nature and to share with you about my husband Jeremy's new business venture as a travel agent. I will definitely keep you updated with information as things progress (like when his website is up and running), but for now I am just going to copy and paste for you what he wrote this morning. So please consider Jeremy for your next vacation and spread the word! Thanks guys!

Just wanted to let everyone know that I am starting up a new travel agency later this month! I have to go to Ft Lauderdale for some training and take care of several things before I am full bore. Initially it will be run out of my home to keep costs down. I will have a web site and, obviously, phones. I will rely heavily on self promotion and word of mouth, so if you could help me spread the word to EVERYONE you know I would be ever grateful. It will be a full service agency to book cruises, Disney, flights, all-inclusives, you get the pic. If its travel I can take care of you! I have done alot of research over the last several weeks b/c I was worried that I would not be competitive with the large search engines(travelocity, expedia, priceline). This is not the case at all, I have purchased a franchise rated 1 by Entrepreneur magazine in this field. This means that I have purchasing power as large or larger than the guys listed above. Still not convinced, I had my company priced several different types of vacations and flights and compared them to the popular sites. I found out every time that we either beat their deal or was the same! That's when I knew this would work b/c most people would much rather do business with a familiar name and some one local they can call with questions and concerns. Thank you very much for all your support and if you know of anyone looking to travel in the next year either as a couple or group(senior trip, churches, reunions) please tell them to email me or call me later this month. I will post another bulletin with all company info hopefully before Thanksgiving!
Jeremy

Shout Out

So, I just wanted to give a shout out to my friend Lauren who made this adorably cute apron for my birthday! Isn't she talented? She is to me because I cannot make things such as this.

This was one of my birthday gifts from my mama and daddy.

Several little girls at school have asked where I got it. Isn't that cute and funny? I think so.

Btw, my birthday was in August. I'm just now posting this. So please do not feel that you have to tell me Happy Birthday.

Happy (early) Halloween!

So, the only time I've ever dressed up for Halloween (other than when I was a kid) was when I was a junior in college in Tuscaloosa. My roommates Johna and Amy and I decided to go as 80s Prom Queens. It was quite hilarious! We got our dresses at the consignment shop. I paid more for mine, but I just had to have it.
If you can't tell by the pictures, I would have had some jammin hair had I been a teenager/in college in the 80s.
There is a picture of Jeremy somewhere with his mullet wig and mustache, but I'm not sure where. And there is one with all girls smiling somewhere too. Also, pardon the quality of these pictures. I had to scan them onto the computer.




So, we didn't realize until we got back to the apt. that her dress was most likely a maternity dress!
Amy broke out the crimper for her hair.

We made banners too. And I'm not sure where my crown was. I think we were supposed to be looking sexy, but I'm not so sure any of us pulled that off!

Do You Read to Your Children?

Do you read to your child/children? Even though I don't have children, I have always known that I would read to them. I love reading and I want my children to love reading. I also know that reading to children is important. When I was in graduate school, one of my clinical internships was at the High Risk clinic. My supervisor would always tell the parents that the best thing they could do for their baby was was to read to him/her. She would tell them to start reading while they are still babies because it's bonding time and they can't get away from you like they could if you wait until they are a toddler! She would also tell them that research shows that children who are read to typically do better in school despite what their IQ might be. So based on all of that information, I knew that I would read to my children one day.
However, I just read "The Read Aloud Handbook" by Jim Trelease and I am now even more convinced of the importance of reading to your children. This is one of the best resource books I have ever read. It was so engaging and easy to read. I highly, strongly encourage every parent, parent to be, teacher or anybody who has in interest in children to read this book!!! I feel that if more parents would read this book and apply the principles that we would see a major difference in children. I recommended it to all my parents on conference day as well. I could go on for days about what Jim said in his book, but I promise he would do a better job, which is why you should read the book for yourself. You will not be disappointed! I also encourage you to check out his website for additional information not found in the book. Actually, I think these stats might be in his book. But I have found them to be so interesting that I am linking you to them as well.
I hope I have sold you all on the importance of reading to your children and for reading this book! And I hope you all aren't thinking I am the biggest dork; but if you do that's ok too!

The Boll Weevil Soap Company

Have you guys ever been to the Boll Weevil Soap Company? I had never been until a few weeks ago. My mother-in-law had given me some soap from there a couple of years ago for part of my Christmas present. I really liked it and had great intentions of going to buy some more products. But as with most things I intend to do, I did not. But since I was in Enterprise recently, I told Jeremy I wanted to stop by. It is the cutest little store. They have a variety of products and more scents it seems than Bath and Body Works! I bought some lotion and a bar of soap in Butterfly Kisses. When I got to the register I saw some "Fall" scented soaps. I really wanted them too, but I only got the other. Almost everything I picked up smelled wonderful. However, going into the store is a bit overwhelming because of all the different scents. But I think you get used to after awhile.
I am a fan of buying and using products that contain more natural ingredients. (as opposed to synthetic and chemicals) I use a lot of Burt's Bees and still like to. But I will now be using more of the Boll Weevil's products; especially since they are locally owned and operated and they make all of their products. I like to support local businesses when I can and I encourage you to do the same. So check out their website. Better yet, go to the store because they don't have all their products listed on the site. Treat yourself or buy some Christmas presents. That's what I'm going to do!

Recap

Back to the Women's Conference from last Saturday. I just wanted to give you all a brief recap on Janie's message. But before I talk about her, I want to say one more thing about Tammy. Tammy led us in a good mix of contemporary songs and hymns. It made me quite happy to get to sing some old songs like, "Come Thou Fount" (one of my faves), "In the Garden" and "I'd Rather Have Jesus". Don't get my wrong, I like praise and worship songs and I listen to contemporary Christian music. But on Sundays, I sure do miss getting to sing those wonderful, old hymns.
Anyway, like I said, Janie's big theme is joy. She told us that joy is different than happiness. You can be unhappy about something but still have joy. She made so many good points and as I am typing this I wish I had written more of them down! I thought I would remember, but who was I kidding?
Janie also talked about the If-Only Syndrome. As in, if only I had more money, my husband was nicer, I had a different job, etc. And the list could go on and on. We all laughed, but I'm sure everybody was thinking the same thing I was; I am so guilty of the if-onlies. Actually, I say "I wish" alot and Jeremy says I'm going to wish my life away.
Janie also talked about the importance of being in the Word daily and memorizing Scripture. This is something I fail miserably at. Last December, I bought Max Lucado's Grace for the Moment Daily Bible; you know where you read through the Bible in one year. I was quite determined that I was going to do this. Well, I made it to about March before that ended. If anybody has any suggestions on how to get disciplined to read the Bible everyday please let me know! Janie said that it is so important to have verses memorized so no matter what situation you are in or circumstance you are facing, the Word will immediately come to your mind. And she is right! There have been so many times that I wanted or needed a certain verse but couldn't think of any.
And Janie also gave us her definition of hope; confident expectations of God's goodness. I like that.

Ya'll Missed Out!

The Women's Conference was Saturday and if you weren't there you missed a blessing! The music was lead by Tammy Jensen. She is been a part of the praise and worship team at Beth Moore's conferences. She was a precious woman with a beautiful voice. And as someone at the conference said, There are many people with pretty voices but it is different with her because she has such a sincere heart and you can tell. The speaker was Janie Walters. She is an absolute hoot! I laughed more Saturday than I have in, well, I don't know when. Her theme is joy and that is something I needed to learn more about.
I will give you all a recap of her message later. I have to get my things together for work. But in closing (haha, that sounds like I'm preaching!), it was wonderful being together with so many women (over 300!) and fellowshiping together. It was a great day!

Reality Check #2

Yet something else that I struggle with. This is a blog that I have been following for a while now. She is a wonderful writer and seems to always post something that I need to hear! (she also has the cutest kids ever!) Anyway, if you struggle with an untamed tongue and a critical spirit, read what she has to say.

Buy A Cute Shirt....

Support a good cause. Please check out this website and look at this totally cute shirt. I have been going to buy one for the past two years (the designs are different every time) but always waited too late. They sell out quickly! But I am going to try and get one this time!

Reality Check (sermon notes from Johnny Fain, FBC Dothan)

This morning Dr. Fain had a wonderful message and one that I needed to hear. One that I needed to hear about 8 or 9 years ago, and for the last two years and probably many other times in my life. His sermon was on bitterness. I do not like to be bitter. I do not like to be around those who are bitter. They are quite unpleasant! Yet I have been that person so many times. I have also allowed others to affect me. And I hate to think that at times my bitterness has more than likely rubbed off on others. I don't want to be that kind of person. If this subject hits home with you too, please keep reading.
The sermon was taken from Acts 8:9-25 about Simon. Here are my sermon outline notes:

Notice how he was not right with God. There were two things that showed how serious his condition really was.
1. Simon was full of bitterness (v. 23)
What is bitterness?
An unpleasant taste, poison.
Bitterness is one of the post crushing problems that a person could ever deal with.
Several things about bitterness:
A. It shows itself in different ways:
jealousy, resentment, revenge, hatred, self pity, a critical spirit, vindictiveness, etc. (and the list goes on. I am adding unforgiveness to the list. All of these make me cringe because I know I have felt/done these things)
B. Bitterness always causes harm in relationships.
C. Bitterness goes much deeper than what you see.
Bitterness has a root.
2. Simon was in bondage to sin.
Bitterness is a stronghold.
Question Comes: How can one be delivered from this stronghold of bitterness or any other stronghold?
Here are some important steps that will help lead to deliverance:
1. Ask God to search out the roots of bitterness.
2. Acknowledge it when it is revealed.
3. Admit that you are captive and in bondage in this area.
4. Confess the area revealed as sin.
5. Ask God to forgive you and fill you with His Holy Spirit.

I Am Utterly Disgusted and Appalled

Ok, so I don't have kids but I do always have an opinion on parenting. I know all you moms are laughing out there and thinking just wait. But I feel certain that you will all agree with me on this one.
So, last night I am flipping through the channels and I stop on TLC because there is a show about pageants. I like pageants. Maybe not all aspects of them, but I do. Jeremy does not. He hates them in fact. However, I would never make my child enter one and probably wouldn't even encourage it. I would let her decide. Anyway, I didn't get to see the whole episode and Jeremy said I shouldn't have even been watching it because in doing so I was supporting something ridiculous.
The show was called "Toddlers and Tiaras" and this pageant was for babies up to teenagers I think. The pageant is Universal Royalty. Well, not only was I appalled at mothers who entered their babies who couldn't even walk into a pageant (boys too!), but I was utterly disgusted at the mothers who allowed their older girls (and by that I mean starting around age 3 and 4) to wear heavy, heavy makeup, false eyelashes, huge, dangling earrings, and hair pieces!!!! There was also a swimsuit category for all ages!! And there were mothers in the audience gyrating their hips for their little girls to mimic while on stage in their swimsuits!!! What is wrong with people?!
TLC talked to some of the girls and here are a couple of comments from them:
"I just want to win the money"-That came from a 6 or 7 year old. Well, we can see what she learns at home.
"I won the money back" (as she is crying)- That was from the same age group I believe. So she has heard her crazy mama talking about how much money it costs to be in these insane pageants and is just glad she won some money to help out! Basically, a first grader is now feeling the pressure to provide financially for her family.
Ok, I am getting angrier as I type and as you can tell, I could go one about this for a while. But I will stop now and let you all tell me your opinion. And if you want to waste some of your precious time, please watch this the next time it comes on TLC!

Roll Tide!!!

I love football season. I do not love that Alabama has not been winning so much, but I do love football. I miss the days of being in school at UA and gameday and tailgating with friends. Especially the days of having friends who lived near the stadium! There is nothing like the excitement of being in that stadium, in the student section, with people cheering and yelling, and the band playing. (Although I was the obnoxious person magnet. It seemed like almost every game, there was going to be at least one sitting behind me.) Even better were the games that we got to sing Rammer Jammer!

I haven't been to a game since 2006, so I hope Jeremy and I can make it to one this year. Although he would rather go see the other team play. Yes, we are a house divided. I'm not sure what will happen one day when we have kids! But I think I'll win the battle. ;)

I miss my Alma Mater, my friends and all the good times we had. But life moves on, all too quickly it seems.

I hope everybody has a great gameday and Roll Tide Roll!!!

I Love Weddings

I love going to weddings. I love to see what the bride, bridesmaids, mother of the bride and groom will be wearing. I love the flowers, the music, well just everything! Jeremy does not. But I think that is all men. Every time we get an invitation he asks if he has to go. And heaven forbid we stay until the reception is over to see the bride and groom leave!

Well, my cousin got married a few weeks ago. He didn't complain too much because she did used to work for him when we still had Roly Poly and he knew my brother would be there. Btw, I thought I was going to have to sit between them during the ceremony.

Anyway, the wedding was so sweet and her dress was absolutely gorgeous. But the unity ceremony was the best part. Notice I said unity ceremony and not unity candle. Here is what the insert in our program said:

"Our Unity Ceremony"

During our unity ceremony we want to not only symbolize our joining together as one, but also our joining together with Christ. We will pour white flower petals together, symbolizing our pure unity together with Christ. We will then pour them out onto the altar, symbolizing our thankfulness to God for bringing us together and symbolizing that we are surrendering our lives to His will and service. We will then stand on those petals, symbolizing that we will stand on the firm foundation on which a life dedicated and surrendered to God is built.

Is that not the sweetest, most touching thing you have ever heard? I loved that it was different and unique and special to them. And sidenote, he is going to seminary to be a preacher. :)

The reception was just as nice and lovely. It was at Alexander's which I had never been to. They had dancing which is always fun. My mama and I did The Electric Slide. I can't ever pass that opportunity up. My brother was just dying to go dance, but wouldn't go without me or my mother. Of course there were plenty of pretty, single girls all lined up on the edge of the dance floor just waiting for somebody to ask them to dance. But he wouldn't do it. Finally though, the DJ played the

Cupid Shuffle and my brother and mama went out on the dance floor! He apparently taught her the dance over the summer. They were quite good if I do say so myself!

The Olympics

I have never been an avid Olympic viewer. In fact, my friend Johna used to say I was un-American. It's not that I dislike the Olympics or America. Actually, I don't guess I have a very good reason as to why I have never really watched them. Well, Jeremy likes the Olympics because he just likes sports and competition. So I have decided that I am going to try to watch some of the events this year. I am most excited about gymnastics, diving and trampoline. I did not know that the trampoline was an Olympic event. But I watched a video from the 2004 games and I was very impressed.

However, after viewing the list of Olympic events,(http://www.nbcolympics.com/) I was surprised about some of the "sports" that were considered to be Olympic material. For example, badminton is an Olympic event. When I think about the Olympics and the athletes, a certain ideal and image comes to my mind. I'm not sure how to describe it to you all. But I can promise you, that badminton does not pop into my mind. I do hope this does not offend any of you reading this. If any of my friends or family were to play badminton in the Olympics one day, I would fully support them. And maybe laugh a little. (j/k!)

(Btw, does anybody else think that it is badmitton, because I did!)

Anyway, I do hope you all enjoy the events and let me hear what you like to watch. Happy Olympics everybody!

Really???

If you have not heard about the lawsuit against Victoria Osteen (Joel's wife) please read this article. Whether true or untrue, this is one of the most ridiculous things I have heard about lately. I'm not sure I have any words on this right now. Maybe later. But I would love to hear what you all think.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,398981,00.html

Grace Keepers Women's Conference

First Baptist Church Slocomb (the church I grew up in) is hosting their 6th Annual Women's Conference on September 27. The guest speaker is Janie Walters. I had the privilege of hearing her speak at a conference earlier this year. She is absolutely hilarious and I am so excited that I get to hear her again. (That is also where I discovered Gwen Smith.) The worship leader is going to be Tammy Jensen. I am not familiar with her, but she has traveled with Travis Cottrell's worship team at Beth Moore's LP events.
The tickets to this event are only $10!! Now you know you cannot beat that price. You will also be provided continental breakfast and lunch. To order a ticket you can call 886-2200 or mail your check and information to:
First Baptist Church
PO Box 428
Slocomb, AL 36375
I highly encourage you to consider going. I promise you will not be disappointed and you will be blessed.
If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask me!

Random Post for Today

My new favorite sandwich is a grilled cheese and egg. Yummy. I eat a lot of egg salad sandwiches. Well, a couple of weeks ago I was craving a grilled cheese and realized I had not eaten one in years. So I thought that would be a good switch from my usually egg salad. But then I thought I could make the grilled cheese even better by adding an egg. And it did. It's probably not the healthiest option considering I put two slices of cheese on it and cover the outside in butter. But it's so good.
Ok, I gotta run. I don't want my sandwich to get cold! (I told ya'll this was random.)

Mama Mia!

I went to see this yesterday with my friend Lauren. It was so good and now I need the soundtrack. And I want to go to Greece. If you do not like musicals, this movie is not for you. To me, every musical turned movie is different, but this one has lots of singing in it, which I particularly like. And who knew that ABBA had any other good songs besides "Dancing Queen"? Well, it so happens that they do. There was only one part at the end that I was not happy with how it resolved. I am wondering if it also happened in the Broadway version too. But overall it was really good and just a fun movie!

By Request

Here is a link to the Soffe shorts that I bought and their website. I bought the Mod Print ones. I still can't believe nobody knows what I'm talking about! I hope ya'll won't laugh at them like my husband did.

http://www.soffe.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=11102&storeId=10051&productId=44167&langId=-1&parent_category_rn=14297

I even found this video about Soffe shorts. You will notice that the "cool" thing to do is roll down the wasitband. I'm not sure why though. But all the college girls in Tuscaloosa did too.

Just for Denise

So, Denise asked me the other day why I never post pictures on my blog. I told her it's because that most of the time my pictures are of my nieces and nephew. And my SIL is weird about posting pics. of them on the internet. Well, Jeremy and I kept Mary Selwyn for Denise and Shay last week and I took some pictures of her. So I am posting these for Denise and because MSN is so cute!
My aunt was in the Mardi Gras parade in Panama City and Jeremy and I brought home a bunch of beads because we thought Jaylee and Tanner would like to play with them. Well they love them and it turns out, so did Mary Selwyn. Of the few toys we have at the house, who knew that beads would be the favorite?

Soffe Shorts

So I feel like I should be back in high school or college right now because I bought a pair of Soffe shorts today. Which is funny, because I never wore Soffe shorts in high school or college. Anyway, they are not the original short shorts. They are Bermuda length and have a cute print on them. They are so cute and comfortable and I believe I am going to need another pair. I got them at Dick's today. On sale of course! (Btw, if any of you need anything from Dick's they are having a pretty good sale. And they have several racks of clothes on clearance.) I am all about comfortable, lounging clothes like track suits and now I have discovered the wonder that is Soffe.

The Antichrist

I know. Pretty deep topic for a Monday morning. But Jeremy and I were talking about this yesterday. And it is not a subject I like discussing or anything from the book of Revelation for that matter. In fact, I try to steer clear of that area if at all possible! I know I shouldn't though. In fact we should all be more knowledgeable on this subject and aware of what is taking place in the world. Our Sunday School lessons for the month of July focus on Revelation so I really haven't had much of a choice to think about it.
Anyway, like I said, I don't read Revelation very often so the answer to my question might indeed be in the book. But Jeremy and I were talking on the way to lunch yesterday and I was pondering about the Antichrist. Is he somebody that has been or will be born and live a life on this earth just as Jesus did? Or will he just appear as if from nowhere? Or is the Antichrist a spirit that will inhabit someone?
If this person is already in the world, I have a few people I think it might could be! I write that and kind of laugh, but it really is a serious thing we shouldn't joke about. My SS book said that Martin Luther, JFK, Mikhail Gorbachev, Bill Gates and Saddam Hussein have all been referred to as the Antichrist at some point.
I also just read in my SS book that the word Antichrist isn't actually used in the book of Revelation. (who knew?) However, a beast coming out of the sea is symbolic of the Antichrist. Attributes of the beast are thought to symbolize or indicate strength, royalty, and political and military power.
Here is a link to more thoughts about the Antichrist from our SS literature. (I think I've linked another article from this site before. Good stuff.)
http://www.threadsmedia.com/index.php?/lifematters/blog_post/satans_pr_man/
I know this is a scary thing to talk and think about. But like I said, it needs to be something we are aware of. Me included. I would love to hear your thoughts on this subject.

My Words Won't Do It Justice

I'm sure by now that most of you have seen this video. But it's just so amazing and awesome that I wanted to post it. (especially now that I've learned how to upload a video. turns out it wasn't that hard) Actually I am going to post two videos about this father and son. Anyway, I think they speak for themselves.

I Love a Good Deal

I am a sucker for a sale, clearance, markdowns, etc. I just can't help myself. And I love to come home and show Jeremy all the great bargains I find. I always say, Well this shirt was originally $25 but I got it for $9.99. Of course his response is, If you didn't need it, it doesn't matter that it was on sale. He is a typical man. He also says that he is going to open a store one day called Half Off. He says he will make a killing because all women love to think they are getting a good deal! I guess that's probably true. And I know you ladies will appreciate my finds so I would like to share them with you.
Last Monday I went to Old Navy. I found a couple of things. Not great deals, but marked down enough that I bought the items. I got a t-shirt for $10 (it has cute puffy sleeves) and a little yellow purse for $5.99. I was pleased with my purchase.
Now for the good stuff. Jeremy and I went to Vanity Fair down in Graceville last Thursday. He desperately needed some new pants. He got 5 pairs of khaki pants and two pairs of khaki shorts for $75! You just cannot beat that. One pair of pants was not on sale though. They rang up for $18, but you still are not going to find clothes that cheap. What makes this story even better is that the night before Jeremy rolled the change in his change cup and came up with $72! So we definitely came out good on that shopping trip.
Saturday I went to the mall. My first stop was Lerner (New York and Company). Yes, I still say Lerner. Anyway, they are having an awesome sale and I got a really good deal. I got 3 shirts and a denim skirt for $30! Again, you just cannot beat that. They had several racks that were 70% off and several racks that were 70% off the clearance price! I was so excited about my good deal. Then I went to Victoria's Secret. They are also having a sale. I got 3 pair of Angels underwear for $9.78. And I think they are normally like $16 a piece or 3 for $30. Something like that. The tags actually said they were marked down to $5.99. So me being the cheapo that I am only took two to the register. Then they rang up for $2.99. I told the cashier to hang on because I wanted one more pair!
I hope I have not bored you all with my shopping stories. But I was so excited I just had to share!
Happy shopping ya'll!

Happy 4th of July!

I know that the state of our nation is not the best right now. The economy is bad and with the upcoming election, who knows where we will be headed? However, I still feel that we are blessed and privileged to live in America. I often wonder what my life would be like if I had been born in another country, specifically a third world country. And I am also thankful and grateful to have been born into a Christian family and in a country where we are free to worship the way we want. Because I was raised the was I was, it's hard for me to imagine not growing up that way. But sadly many people do. In America we are also blessed with many other rights, privileges, and luxuries that other's do not have as well. So in spite of how we all may feel about our country and our leaders right now, let's remember that we truly do have it pretty good. And don't forget to remember the ones who fought to gain and maintain your freedom.
Have a happy and safe 4th!

I Have Got to Start Exercising!

I feel yucky. I have no energy. A lot of my clothes are a little too tight and I cannot deny it any longer.
I have never been one to really enjoy working out or to ever exercise consistently for longer than about 3 months. I know that I need to though. I know all the health and mental benefits. And I know that the times in my life when I was exercising that I just felt better. I wasn't tired all the time like I am now. It's just so hard to get motivated. Is anybody with me on this one?
I could blame this all on Maile. She moved away and now I don't have anybody calling and telling me to go to aerobics. But I won't do that. :)
I should join the church gym because there is just not a cheaper price anywhere. And I do like exercise videos (well, sometimes). The best ones to me are by Denise Austin. Yes, she can be annoying. But once you learn the routine you can just mute her and play your own music. She actually has a degree in exercise physiology which makes me feel like she creates the best and most effective workouts. I found a DVD of hers that I think I may get. It's called Boot Camp and I think I might like it. Other workouts of hers that I have and that are good are Shrink Your Female Fat Zones, Pilates (the two 20 minute workouts one) and Power Kickboxing.
If I ever get off the couch and get moving, I'll let you all know!

Hormones

Is it normal to become more hormonal as you get older? I am just wondering because it seems as though I have. I am much more sensitive lately and will pretty much tear up or cry at the drop of a hat. And if you know me well, you know that I am not a crier. I'm pretty sure my best friend could probably count on one hand the times she has seen me cry!
Maybe it's because I have a lot on my mind right now. Or maybe our hormones do change as we age. I mean I know they do, I just didn't think it would happen at 25!

Blogroll

Ok, I have just added several blogs to my list. These are all people that I do not know in real life, but have found here in Blogland. I really enjoy reading their blogs and am tired of linking to them from somebody else so I decided to add them to my page. I believe there are a couple that I've never commented on; just "stalked" (haha), so perhaps I should comment now! Anyway, I hope you all will enjoy their blogs as I have. And I'm sure I'll be adding some more in the future!

Shopping for Swimsuits

I don't know anybody, not even the girl who is a size 0, who likes shopping for swimsuits. This is what I did yesterday. It was not fun.
I am quite aware that I have put on a few pounds because some of my clothes are a little tight. And I know that I have some cellulite (unfortunately). But overall, I normally feel ok about my body. Until yesterday that is.
I guess it's because I don't have dressing room mirrors at my house and don't get to see myself from the rear too often. Maybe that's a good thing because I definitely did not like what I saw. Actually, maybe I do need all those mirrors and I maybe I should look everyday. Because it might motivate me to exercise and lay off the chips.
The only positive thing about swimsuit shopping was that I purchased one for around $28. I am always excited about a good deal!

Not a lot going on...

Well, since I have pretty much just been sitting at home for the past two weeks, I have not had a whole lot to talk about. Even Jeremy has been begging me to talk more, which is pretty funny if you know how much I normally have to say! But when you are at home all day sleeping, watching TV, or reading, that doesn't give you much to chat about!
Anyway, I have been thinking a good bit about materialism, consumerism; you know, just how much "stuff" I want versus what I actually need. Last summer I read A Beautiful Offering by Angela Thomas and she talked some about this topic. (Great book by the way; she goes through the Beatitudes.) And I am currently reading Through Painted Deserts by Donald Miller who also talks about this topic a good bit. (Sidebar on this book. This is a fantastic read. It has really made me think about some things. Some of it is deep, more so than I'm used to reading. But I am so glad I am reading it.) I know it is just human nature to get caught up in bigger this and that, and more of this and that. But I have really been trying to stop and ask myself if having these things is really going to make me happy. And most of the time the answer is no. I of course would still like to have more clothes and shoes or a bigger house, etc. And so I try to remember that in reality I am very blessed and have a lot more than most. I know where true joy and happiness comes from; I just forget sometimes.
I feel like I have rambled and hope this makes sense. It's just something I struggle with. I am going to post a link for an article on this issue that I just found. The website is from our Sunday School literature through LifeWay. There's some pretty good articles on there. Ya'll should check them out!
http://www.threadsmedia.com/index.php?/live/thou_shalt_live_comfortably/

Memorial Day

There are many of you today who are either at the beach or the lake, or somewhere on vacation for this Memorial Day Holiday. And many of you are just at home like me enjoying your day off. Others will have cook-outs today or will take advantage of all the great sales! But let's not forget the reason we observe Memorial Day. Let us not forget the men and women who have given their lives for this country and for the ones who are still fighting as we speak. We should also take today to remember the One who made the ultimate sacrifice for our lives and freedom.

Happy Memorial Day!

Summer

School is officially over for me on Friday at 1:00. Yay! So that means my summer is almost here. I have lots that I want to do over the next couple of months so I thought I would list my tentative plans.

1. catch up on my reading
2. teach VBS
3. go to the beach, Shipwreck Island, or at least Water World! haha
4. babysit Jaylee and Tanner (Jeremy's sister is having her third baby in June)
5. find a job (probably should be the most important)
6. perhaps attempt a craft of some sort (we'll see how that goes)
7. do some type of organizing (yuck) like updating my address book, cleaning out closets, etc.
8. try new recipes for supper and/or bake my first cake! (again, we'll see how that goes; the cake baking thing that is)
9. maybe do some private speech therapy

10. actually do some of these things and not be totally lazy like in summers past

Summer always flies by so it looks like I better get busy! :)

Change

It's inevitable. Some change is good and needed. Sometimes it is hard and unwelcomed. The bottom line is that change is going to happen whether you like it or not!

I would say that my first big life change was moving to Tuscaloosa to finish my college career. I moved in August 2002 and had only been dating Jeremy since that February. It was also so very hard to leave my family. And the fact that I had grown up in such a small town and gone to a small high school (graduated with 43 people!) made the transition that much harder. I was in culture shock! I missed everybody more than you can know and even wanted to just move back home! But after several months I finally adjusted to my new life and loved being in T-town. Living with my best friend from birth probably helped make things a little better! ;) Looking back, the time really flew by and before I knew it I was getting ready to graduate, move back home, find a job and get married! Now that is a lot of change at one time.

That brings me to the next big phase of change in my life. Coming back home was a lot harder than I expected. Don't get me wrong; I was so happy to be near my family and of course Jeremy. But moving back meant leaving all of the wonderful friends I had made in Tuscaloosa. I felt so far removed from Slocomb and most of the people I had known my whole life. It was a strange feeling and sometimes still is.
About four weeks after graduating I got married. I could not wait to start this new chapter of life. I have loved being married since 6-10-06, but it was an adjustment too. Jeremy and I only lived in the same part of the state for about 6 months before I moved to Tuscaloosa if you will recall. So we had to just get used to seeing each other every day! Add to that the fact that he is a clean freak and I am not and there is another big adjustment. I was also very sad about not having any friends. (Again, happy to be near family and be married. But it's hard not having any girlfriends around.) When I moved to Tuscaloosa I lost touch with most of my friends from Slocomb. So when I returned to the area, my closest friends from college were spread out all over the state and some not even in Alabama! Luckily, this problem was resolved. But not as quickly as I would have liked.

After being married for a few months, Jeremy and I started to look for a church. We didn't feel that either of the churches we grew up in was where we should be. So we began church hunting. We only went to two before finding the right one. We are so blessed to have found FBC Dothan. We could not believe how genuinely nice everybody was! We started attending sometime in the fall of 2006 and became official members that December. Our church family is wonderful and we are so blessed. But again, it was a big change for both of us having grown up in small country churches. Jeremy more so than me. But we love it and I am so glad to be where we are.
My friend problem finally resolved in two ways. First (and obviously) through church. We have made some great friends in our Sunday School class. It did take a while to get know some of the people, but I am so glad that we were patient and for the friendships that we now have. (The second was through one of my best friends from almost birth moving home. And boy am I glad!) Well, of course this blog would not complete without adding some more change to this portion. One set of our friends moved back home a few months ago and now another couple is moving to Pensacola. Both of these couples are following God's plan for their lives. But again it seems like I just got to know them and become good friends and now they are leaving. This would be the unwelcomed kind of change! However, we do have our other friends from SS that I hope will be around for a long time! (hint hint)

Last but not least, the change of life through the avenue of a job. I just thought college was hard! I was blessed though to have the summer after graduating and getting married to rest, but I was blasted with the job world that August. It has been quite an interesting, hard, learning and at times good experience; to say the least. I won't and can't even begin to say all that has happened these past two years!
My next big change is here as I am looking for a new job. I'm not sure if I am supposed to stay in the school system or try something new like a hospital. I just want to make the right decision and knowing what that is is proving to be difficult. But I am trying to trust the Lord and be patient (which is something I'm not very good at) because I know He has a plan for me.

I think I will close this blog with a very fitting passage of scripture:

To everything there is a season,
A time for every purpose under heaven:

A time to be born,
And a time to die;
A time to plant,
And a time to pluck what is planted;
A time to kill,
And a time to heal;
A time to break down,
And a time to build up;
A time to weep,
And a time to laugh;
A time to mourn,
And a time to dance;
A time to cast away stones,
And a time to gather stones;
A time to embrace,
And a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to gain,
And a time to lose;
A time to keep,
And a time to throw away;
A time to tear,
And a time to sew;
A time to keep silence,
And a time to speak;
A time to love,
And a time to hate;
A time of war,
And a time of peace.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8