Lady Fox

A New Chapter

2010-05-10T15:10:00.000-07:00

After 12 years of home schooling, Chandler will be graduating on June 5. That's SO hard to believe. No! Really! Like a "weird" hard to believe. We started this journey when he was 6 years old. He will be 18 in 16 days. I'm actually holding up quiet well. Well, so far! I've loved having my children at home for their education. Has every single day been a piece of cake....PSHHHHH.... Yeah, right! But, I would not have changed it, not for one single day. Even the days of agony and tears. The days of..."I cant do this"....."I don't want to do this"...."I don't get this"....."how many more?"....do I have to read it all, today?"...."can I use the answer key?"....and on and on!!!!!

I truly count it an honor to have been able to help my children learn and watch them grow. It's all happening. The graduation announcements, the last soccer game as a senior, Senior pictures, meeting with the college and much more. I can do this.....I can do this....I can do this......

Did I do it "all" right?! Well....of course! NOT!!!!!!!!!!!! But, my hope and trust is that I did something with the help and guidance of the Lord that made a difference. I'm proud of Chandler. He's a good kid! He really is! He loves the Lord and wants to do what is right. What more can a mother ask for, right? He's not really sure what he wants to do with his life. But, that's ok. As long as he is seeking the Lord for direction, he will do fine. He's gonna start out here at the Community College. SHEW!!!!! So glad! He's not leaving me! He's staying at home, for now!

So, I ask for you, if anyone even reads this blog, since I'm not the best blogger anymore, to please pray for Chandler. Pray for his future. Pray that he will always keep himself centered in God's Perfect Will!!!!

pick your mouth up

2010-01-31T15:10:00.000-08:00

Yes....that's right! Close your mouth! I am blogging! I know, I know, it's been a really long time. I thought this would be a GREAT weekend to pick it back up. I want a new background and picture but Morgan does that for me and she's not home right now. I'll get her to hook me up later.

Of course, there is absolutley, positivly NO way to catch up from October but maybe I can start with Friday. One word to begin...SNOW!!!!!

So, the weather people began to prepare us probably a week in advance. And, I am one that USUALLY ALWAYS believe them as if they really, really know! HA! yeah, right! 9 times out of 10, they are wrong and I am disappointed to wake up to nothing white anywhere in sight. So, after being burned many times, this time, I did not let myself get "all caught up" in the "snow talk". My response this time was...."I'll believe it when I SEE it". No, I'm NOT a doubting Thomas, I just simply live in TN...haha! Well, sure enough, what do ya know....they were right!

Around 10am or so on Friday morning, it started. It snowed and snowed and snowed and snowed. By Friday night we had a beautiful winter wonderland. Now, you guys up north, don't laugh! For us Tenesseans, this is big stuff. We don't see 5-6in of snow in Middle TN! I was like a kid! I'm not kidding! I was just as excited as Christmas morning.

I decided I wanted some snow cream. I had never made it for myself before, so I got online to find an easy recipe. Milk, sugar, vanilla and of course SNOW! It was soooo good! I decided to add a little something extra so I added pecans and peanut butter. Very nice touch, I must say!

During the night, we got probably an inch of ice on top of the snow. Around lunch time, a group of young people decided to make a football field out of the area behind my house. They played and played. They came in to warm themselves by the fire and then head out again for round two. Oh to be young and not care how much pain you receive from falling on hard ice. Shew!!!! No thank you! So, I watched (from inside mind you....I have gained a small amount of wisdom with the years) ha! oh wait...I did run out there to take some pictures.

After a while, they made their way back inside and decided they wanted pizza. After pizza and some chill out time we had another plan. And this time, I wanted to "play". I wanted to go sledding. We may not see this snow and ice for another 10 years and I really wanted to sled. So, that's just what we did. I know, I'm completely contradicting myself with the whole "wisdom" with years and staying in but...i wanted to sled! HA!

We headed over to some church members house that have a really great hill in their neighborhood and this 41 year old, along with my 43 year old husband decided to be kids. OH WHAT FUN!!!!!!!!! I even got on my sons back and we laid down on our bellies and went down head first together!!!!! YEP!!!! you read that right! I did it!!!!!! And, had a BLAST!!!!

After about 1 1/2 hrs, and absolutley frozen solid toes, we decided we were finished. So, we headed back to the house and ate. I had beans in the crok pot, made some rice and then made smores!

Today, Sunday, due to the icy roads, church was cancelled. The sun has actually been shining today. The sun and the ice everywhere is beautiful. I have some trees in my yard that are so gorgeous! We did head out around 1:30 to meet some friends for lunch and some of the roads are still bad.

I have absolutley, postively loved this weekend! It's just been fun! The Lord let us southern folks enjoy the beauty of some snow. I so wish we would get this every winter but oh well! It truly has been one of those "good and perfect" gifts from the Lord! Thank you, Jesus for the snow!

OH MY.....

2009-10-28T15:11:00.001-07:00

......it's been a llllloooooonnnnnnggggg time!

Nay, not today either :)

re-decorating

2009-08-27T11:51:00.000-07:00

Actually, more like re-arranging. If you know anything about me, you know that I love doing things in my home. I love decorating and such! I also like change in my house after a period of time. I re-arranged my living room yesterday. l like doing that ever couple of months. Makes me feel like I've got a new room or at least a different look in that room. It also gives me a chance to clean behind furniture that I don't do every day.

I was watching a show this week and a interior decorator was saying how people really don't have extra money right now to buy new stuff for their house but that you could actually shop in your own home. He said walk into each room and decide how you can move furniture to a different room for a different look. Well, I did just that. I took a book shelf from my bonus room and brought it downstairs into the family room. I love it! I just think it's so fun to do stuff like that. Your probably thinking....."poor Tam, she just gets excited over the silliest things". ha! But, my home is actually a hobby of mine. I love taking care of my home. Ahhh!!!!!! just brings me comfort!

But now, my husband is gonna have to hang a picture for me in the dining room. The wall where I put the book shelf covered the picture that was hanging on that wall so I had to take it down. I think it will look really nice in my dining room. I would just do it myself but the picture is huge. Steve and I have a totally different way of hanging things on the wall. I "eyeball" it, hoping it's half straight. My husband gets the tape measure out to make sure it's exactly right. ha!

So, that's what I've been doing....among other things!

One of those "Mondays"

2009-08-25T06:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Monday, I woke up frustrated. O.K. let me forwarn you, this may be one of those posts that gets alot of comments or none whatsoever.....

I don't understand peoples choices and priorities! Can't we realize how serious the times are in which we live?????!!!!!

I DO NOT understand the lack of church attendance AND SUCH LIKE!!! How can we do everything else we want to do but not come back to church Sunday night? How can we make everything else THE priority and the Lord A priority. I don't get it!!! I really, really, really don't get it. What is it gonna take for us to get serious? Completely sold out to serving the Lord and EVERYTHING that includes.

I did ALOT of praying yesterday!!! Alot of soul searching! I reminded myself...."Tammy, stop looking at man"....Look to Jesus." I will stand before God one day very soon for MY choices!!! I must get it right according to God's Word!!!! I have to do what's right! Regardless of what I DO NOT UNDERSTAND....God holds the record. He sees ALL and knows ALL and HE will reveal what is not right! When he does his revealing and purging, I have to find myself pleasing and accepting in HIS sight.

I'm responsible for me and for rearing my children in the ways that are right! I want to be a blessing and to minister with the love of Jesus!!! I want to be real in HIS sight!

So, after much prayer and scripture reading, I feel better. I still don't understand choices that people make but it's not for me to "figure out". It's ALL in God's hands. I have to keep Tammy right! Pure, Holy, Blameless, before HIM in ALL matters.

God is keeping the record....HE's taking notes!!!!!
GOD HELP ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Only by His Grace and Mercy will I make it!!!!!

hmmmmm.....I wonder if I can count this on my report....hahahahahahaha!!!!!!!

Yard Sale Jack Pot

2009-08-22T15:36:00.001-07:00

I got a text yesterday that said...."Leslei and I are going yardsaling in the morning, if you want to go....Early!" So, I texted back..."I'm in". Kim texted me back and said..."Be at my house at 6:45"....I texted back..."I'm out". I was kidding. I even got there at 6:30. Morgan said she wanted to go but when she found out what time we were leaving, she decided that she really was "out". ha!(wimp)!

So, I got to Kim's and we headed out to pick up Les. Let me just say, Kim was serious about this. When we got in her car, she had two pages of addresses and directions of where she had found yard sales advertised on Craigslist. It was great! I had never yard-saled so organized and let me just say, it was well worth her effort. We had a plan!!!

All 3 of us racked up!!!!!!!!!! It was SO much fun! We were like kids at Christmas. Les and I have the same taste and we even got a little competitive over some items as to who "got" it. Fun! Fun! We had to help Kim control herself as far as her buying for her grandbaby, Olivia!:) The funniest thing happened. We came upon this house that had this huge, blow-up, jumpy thing in the front yard. As soon as we saw it, Les and I both said..."Kim, you are NOT getting that." She quickly said..."Oh, Yes, I AM"... We quickly realized it wasn't even a yard sale. They were setting up for a kids party. HA!!!!!!

I found Morgan the cutest shoes. They are wedges! I knew she would love them! They are Banana Republic and I got them for 2 dollars! Yes, Banana Republic is an expensive brand. (i think)! Anyway, I was right. She loved them.

I've been wanting some camo-gouchos for a while now. I found a pair, exactly what I wanted for .50 cents. Woohoo! I also got two really cute sweaters for .50 and $2. Love, love, love it!

About half way thru our journey, we stopped by the house and picked up Morgan. That child is just like me about deals. To be 14, she doesn't AT ALL mind yard sale clothes and Goodwill clothes. I'm very thankful. Les and I were talking today, it's ridiculous to pay outrageous amounts of money for clothes when you can get such good deals at theses places. Seriously, if you take the time, you can get some super good deals. I get so excited over such deals. :)

It's been a really good day!

Bad..... Bad.....Blogger!

2009-08-17T12:10:00.000-07:00

That's what I've become.

Nonetheless, here goes....

There's absolutely no way, with MY memory, to go all the way back to my last post. NO way! Wonder why some people have really good memories? They can remember everything! And, then there are those, such as myself, that cannot hardly remember yesterday. I'm bad, really, really bad. I wonder if that's something that can be helped? I wonder if that herb, Ginko (or whatever it's called), really works?! Hmmmmm, I should check into that....IF I don't forget....LOL!

Last Friday, that's where I'll start. Les and I hung out. We had Chick-fil-A for lunch (my fav). Then, we went to Goodwill. Not the one in Smyrna, but this really huge one in Nashville. I really am on cloud nine when I'm in Goodwill. I love it! I found some stuff. I usually always find some stuff there. She and I hit Starbucks after Goodwill. She treated me to a Cinnamon Spice Doulche (not sure of the spelling). Yum!

We parted ways after Starbucks and I had some time to kill so I hit the Goodwill in Smyrna. Again, score! I bought myself 3 more skirts. Cute ones too! I had time to kill because it was 4:00 and I had to pick Chandler up from work at 5:00. His car is sick so I've been taking him to and from work unless I didn't need my car and then he would just take it himself.

Saturday, Steve and I cleaned the church. And..........(the memory thing is kicking in)..........

Oh yeah, I had to hit Walmart to get the things I needed that I was making to take to band service Saturday night. Band service was a true blessing to me. We gathered at Rick and Les' house and Rick did a SUPER devotion on Faith. He's been kidded since then that his "message" was very good. He's not a preacher. So, it's kinda funny. I also enjoyed the good fellowship and of course, food!

Sunday, of course, church. Always a blessing! If it's not a blessing, it's our fault, not the Lords!!!!! Right? Sunday afternoon has become my "nap time". I even decided this past Sunday morning, not to make my bed. That is a huge thing with me. I always make my bed. But, as I started to, I quickly remembered..."it's Sunday"....I'll be napping today! So, I just kinda straightened it and left it unmade. And, sure enough, after lunch, I turned on the fan and climbed in. Within a very short time, I was snoozin! AH! Gotta love that! I slept for a good 1 1/2 hours. Lovely! Simply lovely!

Sunday night, church again, was a blessing. We had a testimony service and that is always so encouraging. I love hearing of the goodness of the Lord. He's just SO good to us!

Now, I'm up to today...Monday....

Morgan had a Dr. appt today. It was time for her physical and she needed to have a sports physical to play soccer. O.K. so we knew she had gotten really tall. Everywhere she goes, someone comments on her llllloooooonnnnnnggggg legs and how tall she has gotten. The child is almost 5ft 8in!!!! YIKES!!! Good grief, Charlie Brown!

that's all for now!

Great day but a busy one!

2009-08-07T21:52:00.000-07:00

I think I got up this morning around 8. I've had to take and pick Chandler up from work this week becasue his car has been in the shop. ****I don't want to talk about that*** I've gotten use to not having to drive him around since he's been driving himself. So, I've had to work around his schedule. It's not too bad, just have to plan accordingly.

I got my 3 mile run in. I've run for years but I always feel accomplished each time I do it. I'm glad that excercise is important to me. I feel better for it. It's not "the" priority, just "a" priority.

Let's see.....I had to make a Walmart run to get things to make dinner for the Sutton's. The church has been providing meals every other night since they have been home from the hospital with Braden. Tonight was my night, so I made them a Mexican casserole and a peanut butter pie. I hope they enjoyed it.

After delivering the meal to them, we headed over to my sister in laws house for dinner. My brother in law, Tim, had grilled some yummy steaks for us. Oh! they were good. I made a strawberry shortcake and I must say, it was yummy too. Very simple and easy but tasty. We had a very nice time visiting with them and my mother in law as well. We played the Wii. I claim that I'm a very good Tennis player on that thing but my son says I'm not. i just need a little practice, that's all. I kept swinging too soon and missing the ball all together. At one point, Chandler stood behind me, held my hand and swung for me. ha! Speaking of Chandler....how many 17 year old boys want to hang out with their family on a Friday night?! He never complains or says he doesn't want to go...ever! He such a good kid!

I don't know how many games of golf that Tim, Steve and Chandler played but at 10:30 I had to make them stop. My neice, Lexi, who is 4 needed to go to bed and as long as we were there, it was not happenin.

So, now, I'm home, it's midnight and I need to go to bed but here I sit with a big empty bowl of what use to be Strawberry shortcake sitting right in front of me. Denise, I polished off the rest of it. Oh good grief! Ha! I needed to leave it there with you, girl! Ha!

It's been a good day and I thank the Lord for it!

Trying to decide....

2009-08-02T20:31:00.000-07:00

......exactly when to start school.

My kids will be starting their tutorial classes on August 14. Morgan is taking two classes there this year, English and Science. Everything else we will do at home. Chandler only has one class to take at the tutorial this year. His last English class. He needs to finish his Geometry and History from last year. And, I think he needs a half semester of Health. Other than finishing his BTI courses, that's all he's got and he can graduate. I CAN NOT believe that. Really!!! I can't. We started home schooling when he was 6 years old. If I dwell on it for too long, I could cry my eyes out. His plan after graduation is to go to Motlow State Community College. That's the plan right now, anyway.

They have to start their tutorial classes on the 14th but I'm considering waiting until after the Assembly to start everything else. Cha has got to work on some ACT prep stuff though. He's taking the ACT in October. The original plan was to take it in September but we found out that we will be at the Assembly on that Saturday. No biggy. That will just give him more time to prepare.

Morgan will be a freshman in high school. That's weird too. My babies are just growing up so fast. I have a picture of both of them on our very first day of home schooling. Chandler was 6 and Morgan was 3. Boy, oh boy! I would not have traded all those days for anything. Some have been hard, some have been easy, some have been ugly, some have been pretty, some have been nothing but tears and some have been full of laughter. Some days I feel like I got nothing accomplished and others I feltl very accomplished because of what they learned. All in all, I'm very thankful for every single day.

I want this to be a great year. Especially with it being Chandler's last year. As strange as it seems, I want to cherish every single day. I want to make the most of it with him. Not that I don't with Morgan, but I'll still have 3 more years with her.

I still remember having a conversation with my husband sitting at the dinner table the summer after Chandler went to kindergarten. The summer that I really was considering home schooling. I remember Steve saying...."Tam, you didn't even like school yourself." And, he was right. School really wasn't my cup of tea. But, God has helped us. When I was struggling with Algebra 1, I remember calling a friend for prayer and not long after that God helped it to start clicking with me. It has worked for us. What a blessing it has been. Being able to say, with a grateful heart, that "I" (with the help of the Lord) taught both of my children to read. All the many times of being right in the middle of school, getting a call, and the 3 of us stopping that very moment to pray together. AH! Nothing like it!!!

God is so good!

Last Day

2009-07-24T12:27:00.000-07:00

I just told momma that this vacation has not flown by. Usually, vacations do but this one has not. Which is great! It's kinda like Christmas though. You plan, and look forward to it and then.....it's over! Kinda depressing, ya know?! Of course, we now have another memory, which I love!

I haven't posted since Monday night, I think ,so let me back up. Tuesday, (man, I should have done this everyday so I could remember:(

Tuesday....tuesday.....Oh yeah, kind of another laid back day. We have our own private pool so that's been nice. The kids have loved that. Tuesday afternoon Steve and Chandler played golf. Deb, Devan, Morgan and I went shopping. We found this HUGE outlet mall. Its SO big we didn't even hit half of it. I think we might go back this afternoon. After shopping, we got lost trying to find our way back to the house. Oh wait....we got lost GOING TO the mall. And, we REALLY got lost coming back. Deb and I are THE WORST in the family with directions so we could not help each other at all. By the time we got back to the house, we were starving and grouchy. ha! Momma had made a salad and chicken and rice so we inhaled that.

Wednesday.......DISNEY WORLD!!! It was wonderful but just a word of adivce..."Do not come to Disney World in July." This is my 6th time to Disney and I have NEVER seen it so crowded....NEVER!!!!!! People EVERYWHERE!!!!!!! Hot and People DO NOT MIX! haha! We made the best of it and did alot of laughing. We waited to ride Peter Pan for at least an hour....not kidding! We got hysterical laughter in the line because there was NO breeze whatsoever. It was too funny! My mom got that really loud cackle laugh going. Just being together, seriously, laughing ourselves SICK was priceless!

I think my favorite part of Disney was the Parade. It was that night. It was beautiful! I've got pictures that I will download on my facebook when I get home. So, check um out. Some of the Disney characters were in the parade. It was SO cute! They also had a really cool fireworks show after the parade to Disney music. It was really cool!

Thursday, we basically had to re-coop from the day before. We hung out at our private pool and mom & dad slept. HA! Every time we would walk thru the house, either momma or daddy was snoring on the couch. They SO needed this rest. It has been very restful for all of us.

Thursday night we really wanted to eat at Chef Mickey. It's a character dinner but they were completely booked up. Boo! So, we rode around trying to find something good to eat. We ended up at Outback. It was good and fun! Regardless of where we go or what we do, when our family is together we laugh SO hard and SO much! I love that!

Deb, Dev, Mo and me went to Walmart after eating to get some stuff. Okay, no matter where we go, we end up a Walmart. Does everyone do that or is it just our family?! I kid you not, someone in our family has been to Walmart every single day we've been here. Pitiful! haha!

Today/Friday - Deb, Tristan and I hung out by the pool. Momma slept on the couch. HA!!!!! Daddy, Tommy, Devan, Dylan, Steve, Chandler and Morgan went to Islands of Adventure. It's a theme park with huge rides. Rides that do not interest me, momma, and Deb at all. We decided it would be a waste of money for us to go, so we opted out. Tommy sent Deb a text that the park was great and they were having a good time. Daddy sent Momma a text that said .."couldn't be better".
They are having a really good time and I'm so glad. The older kids didn't really have alot of their kind of rides at Disney World so we really wanted them to be able to go to this theme park. It doesn't close until 9 tonight so I'm sure it will be late when they get back.

I'm thinking that outlet mall might be calling my name again.

So, that's been the "highlights" of our vacation. Let me sum it up......RELAXING, WONDERFUL, FUN, MEMORABLE, SPECIAL, PRICELESS, LAUGHTER.....wouldn't take nuttin for it!

We are heading back to "reality" tomorrow. ***tear*** I do miss my house and my dogs so it will be nice to see them.

Please pray for our safe travels. It' a long drive.

From Orlando, Florida

2009-07-20T19:51:00.001-07:00

Today has been our first day of family vacation. The 4 of us, my mom & dad and my brother, his wife and 3 kids. We arrived last night around 8pm. We came straight from the GA/FL Regional convention. It was wonderful! The presence of the Lord was wonderful. I truly enjoyed being there.

So, when we got to our vacation home, we were completely satisfied with it. It's HUGE! At least 4,000 square feet. There are 5 bedrooms so we all have our own room. Steve and I, Momma and Daddy, Tommy and Deb (and Tristain), Devan and Morgan have a room together and Chandler and Dylan have their own room. And, we even have extra beds. There are 2 pull-out couch's that we are not using.

It's so roomy. It's nice to not be on top of each other but at this very moment, we are all sitting basically on top of each other in one room. ha!

One of my favorite things about our family vacations is the laughter. My brother is a NUT! Seriously, he keeps us in stitches!!!! We laugh so hard it hurts!!!

Today, we had planned on a lazy day. Getting up when ever we wanted too, having coffee and just whatever. My mom fixed a big breakfast and we just took it slow. After lunch, we decided we would drive to Daytona to see the ocean. It was so nice. My nephew, Tristian loved the water running up on his toes. He would just laugh and laugh. He's only 3. It was precious!

After chilling out there for a while, we made our way back to the house. Momma fixed tacos for dinner. Oh yeah, in the garage of this place is a game room. There is pool and air hockey for the kids. It's just perfect!

So far, the first day has been GREAT! And, we still have all week long. I love it and I'm so thankful the Lord has allowed us this time together!!

I really should be......

2009-07-16T10:46:00.000-07:00

packing for vacation
taking Dakota to get her nails trimmed. i have to pay to have it done, NOONE in this house can hold her still
doing more laundry
going to the bank to get money for vacation
going to Kohls to buy a new purse (i know, that's a want, not a need)
doing more housework
working on ACT prep with Cha

but....no....I'm not! I'm just typing out what I should be doing, not actually doing it.

Happy Anniversary!

2009-07-14T18:07:00.000-07:00

Today is my parent's 42nd wedding anniversary. I just have the best parents on the planet earth. I know, you probably think YOU have the best parents on planet earth, and that's o.k. hehe! They didn't really do anything "extra" special becasue they are SO busy these days. The GA/FL regional convention is this weekend so they are working like crazy people to prepare for that. Although, they did go out to dinner tonight so at least they got to do something. Steve and the kids and I are leaving Friday afternoon to head down to GA for the convention. On Sunday, after it's over we are going to see Mickey Mouse. We are going to Disneyworld! Oh! What fun! A Campbell/Fox vacation is much needed. I'm SOOOOOOOO looking forward to next week. We aren't coming back home until the next Satruday sometime. I will be sure to take tons of pictures. Oh! I just can't wait. We have rented this entire house just for us! WooHoo! Coffee with my mom every morning! Gotta love it!

But, before Disneyworld, the convention. I just know the Lord is gonna bless. Pray for His perfect will in every session. He knows just what we need!

God Bless!

Must run in the family

2009-07-09T03:55:00.000-07:00

My title refers to traveling for the Lord. Going, going, going....from my mom & dad down to my kids......I love it!

I was up this morning at 4:45am to send my kids off to work in the VA/WV youth camp. They have about an 8 hour trip. Kim is the guest minister at the camp and she asked my kids along with Chelsei and Josh to go with her to help out. All of the kids are helping her with some skits for her messages and Chandler is helping Josh with a class for the teen boys. Morgan and Chelsei are teaching the music class for the Junior campers. I am so proud of my kiddos.

Morgan worked last night on her class. She had to buy a song off I-tunes and burn it to a CD and she had to write out the words on to a poster board. She loves that kind of stuff.

Speaking of traveling, my parents have been NON-STOP lately. I catch myself when I say..."I don't know how they do it", because I know it is the strength of the Lord that carries them. In my human thinking...."I don't know how they do it". They are not spring chickens anymore (Ha! sorry momma). But honestly, they love it! Working for the Lord is what they do best, in my opinion. We are going down for their regional convention next weekend. I'm excited about that. I've met some of the people from GA/FL and I'm excited to meet more. From the convention, we are all taking a much needed vacation. We are going to Disney World. I cannot wait!!!!

Living for the Lord, working for Him and His Church is the life I desire for my children. That's all I've ever known and it's all I want for my kids. Truly, if my kids are in His perfect will.......then I'm good!

This day is gonna seem really long. It's only 6:00am. Should I go back to bed? Should I stay up? Hmmmmmmmm......

I could probably get alot done if I stayed up. I'm tired though. But then again, I don't know if I could sleep. I'm rambling.......

Michael Jackson

2009-07-07T07:30:00.001-07:00

Every time I see coverage of his life, every single time....my heart breaks! It's obvious by looking at him, even just physically, although he seemed to "have it all" that he was a sad person. You don't change your appearance so drastically just because. There is no doubt that the man was talented, no doubt at all. But, it's all over.

I Timothy 6:7 - For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.

All of his fame and fortune......

I hope with everything in me that He made peace with God. I will not say "He did not make it" nor will I say "He made it". That rests in God's hands. God is merciful and it is not His will that ANY perish. Yes, I know that one must be saved by the blood of Jesus Christ to enter in, so I hope that Michael Jackson called out to God. Oh, how I hope this.

He was a soul! That's what it boils down too. A soul that faced eternity. I really hope to meet him in Heaven one day.

I miss my mommy!

2009-07-02T07:59:00.000-07:00

I'm 41 years old and I miss my mommy! It seems that our schedules have not met up in tooooooo long. We've both been working for the Lord, so that's the good thing. But, I still miss her. She called me this morning, they were somewhere in GA and so we got a chance to talk a little. I heard my dad sneeze in the background and it made me miss him too. HA! I told my mom, I wanted to come sleep in the bed with them. HA!!!!! When I lived at home and I would come home from a date with Steve, I would go jump right in between them in their bed and share with my mom all about my night.
They are hoping to be back home sometime tonight. I told her I would be there to sleep with them. We both laughed!!!

I can talk with my mom like no other. Except for my husband, of course, but Steve is NOT a talker. He's more of a listener. So, we balance each other out that way.

This weekend is our State Convention. Up until today, we still did not have a place to stay. I talked with Bro. Sutton last night about where they were staying and he told me. My plan was to call there today and get a room, but one of the things my mom called me about this morning was to tell me that she had talked to Sis. Smith and she had some rooms available at her house. My parents usually stay with the Smith's when they are in Cleveland for any time. I called Sis Smith this morning and she was more than willing to share her home with us. WOOHOO!!!!! What a blessing! Truly! We stayed at her home last year for Convention and it beats a hotel, ANYDAY!! Again, thank you SO much, Sis. Smith for allowing us to invade your home.

Today, I need to clean my house. Like, really clean it. And, I need to help Chandler work on the ACT prep book. He is taking the ACT in September and we are trying to prepare him for it.

So, I've sat around long enough this morning. I need to get productive.

No words......but I'll try

2009-06-27T13:29:00.000-07:00

Camp this year was AWESOME!!!!!!

O.K....I'm done........

just kidding!

Before we even left, Chelsei and I agreed to pray and fast at a particular time during camp for a particular thing. And, God did not disappoint. Does he ever?! NO!

Sis Cox from GA was our evangelist. She did an outstanding job. I had heard such wonderful things about her from my parents. And, she was true to their word. A great lady!

I don't even know how many experience's there were but there were many. Each night was special, but Wednesday night goes down in the history books (figure of speech). Our young people truly sought the Lord for hours!!! I'm so thankful that I got to experience with my eyes those that are quiet and usually sit back and "watch", get right in there and step out of their comfort zones to receive from the Lord. I saw a determination in them that was truly a blessing. If you are reading this and you were one of those seeking the Lord, DONT STOP!!!!!! I expect to hear and see you going to those "higher heights and deeper depths" with the Lord.

Oh, and the young ones. They were such a blessing as well. We had an 8 year old to receive the Holy Ghost! Simply amazing! God does not look at age.....just a pure willing heart! Thank you, Jesus!

Praise the Lord for all that was accomplished and for what He still has for our young people!!!!!

Later

2009-06-26T08:21:00.000-07:00

I'll post about camp......later!

Well Goodness!

2009-06-18T15:57:00.000-07:00

Nobody comments anymore...............

So much going on

2009-06-15T08:41:00.000-07:00

The week before camp. Yep, we leave this coming up Sunday. Well, me and the kids that is. Steve couldn't get off work because he's taking a week off in a couple of weeks to go to mom & dad's regional convention and then on to Disney World. We are taking a big family vacation and gonna go see Mickey and Minnie. The four of us. My mom and dad and my brother and his family. I can't wait!!!!!

So, I'm doing something at youth camp this year that I've never done before. Fun time and Fellowship time. Should be fun! I've done other things. I've been a counselor. I've taught numerous classes. And you know if you've ever worked in camp, when your there, you end up doing a little of everything. It's great!

Morgan is going as a camper and Chandler is going to do recreation for the Junior Campers. I'm excited to see how he does with those little ones. I just know it's gonna be a great camp. I want our young people to be blessed and receive just what they need from the Lord. Grant it, Lord Jesus!

I found out yesterday that I'm on the State Convention program to preach. WHAT?! WOW! Yeah.............AT THIS TIME IF EVERYONE WILL GET ON THEIR KNEES..... Haha! Just kidding, not really! The Lord has already begun to give inspiration. I truly want to be an empty vessel so He can pour in HIs Will....not mine!

Speaking of preaching, Sis. Easton had asked me months ago to come to Murfreesboro yesterday to minister. She and Bro. Eaton were gonna be out of town and she wanted Steve and I to help out with the service. So, of course, we did. We had a wonderful service. The Lord was truly present. I even got a really nice surprise. Just before service began, I look back and my mom and Chelsei come walking through the door. Then a few minutes later, after parking the truck, in walks my dad. It warmed my heart. Really! They came to be with us. Awwwwww! Aren't they just the greatest?! I love those people! When I grow up, I want to be just like my parents. I cherish them! It was great being with them. All three of them. I hadn't seen them in weeks. They were all at BTI so it just put the icing on the cake for them to be there.

After service, we all went to eat some good ole Mexican food. Rick and Les met up with us and we just had a grand time. Family......I've got the best!

have a great day yall.......This is the day that the Lord hath made!!!!

It doesn't take much.....

2009-06-09T09:13:00.000-07:00

My sister in law gave me this discount card to have my carpets professionally cleaned. I think she or my mother in law used this company. I also read on someone's facebook status that they had used this company and were very pleased. So, I gave them a call. They came out this morning to give me an estimate. After all the measuring, they gave me the total and said that they could do it today. Woohoo! I called Steve and he said, " if they need it...yes". Well, they definitely need it. I cannot believe I'm going to admit this especially because of my obsession with cleanliness but here goes.....

We have lived in this house for 5 years. I have cleaned my carpets once! YUCK! And, I did not have it done professionally. I used Lynn's carpet cleaner. So, to say the least, I'm so excited. The guy is here right now. YAH!

Every summer, my neighborhood has a huge yard sale. It's the best time to have one because I don't have to do the advertising. They do it. And, house after house is participating so it makes for a really good turn out. This Friday and Saturday is that time. Lynn and I are gonna participate. I hope to do well. I'm gonna go through closets and such and dig out everything I possibly can. Hope it goes well.

Bless the Lord!

June 3, 1989

2009-06-03T20:58:00.001-07:00

Exactly 20 years ago today, I became one with the one God chose for me. When Bro Dupre said....."I now pronounce to you, Mr & Mrs. Steve Fox".....I was one happy chick. And to this very day.....I am still, one happy chick. There are NO words to describe how grateful and thankful I am to the Lord for answering my parents prayer in the form of Steve Fox. They truly prayed him into my life. The last 20 years have been wonderful. Seriously, wonderful! You wanna know the secret?!

The LORD!

He is the center of my life. He is the center of Steve's life. He is the center of our marriage. Simple as that!

That's the key to any marriage, not just ours. We love HIM, which makes our love for each other that much sweeter. I adore Steve. He is an amazing man, husband and father.

God has truly smiled upon me!

Memorial Day

2009-05-25T06:09:00.001-07:00

May 25, 2009. I can't believe this month is almost coming to an end. I think this has been the fastest one this year. Unbelievable how fast the days go, huh?

This morning we are heading to the Pelham Valley church to eat some Bar-B-Q. They are having a cookout/singing to support Youth Camp. So, we are heading up there for a while. I think there are several from Antioch that are going to support. I just love how The Church of God rallies together to help each other out. It' the best!

This afternoon, well, I'm hoping to get a run in. If it doesn't rain, Steve and Rick will probably go to the golf course. Usually, just about every holiday, my family gets together but I haven't heard any talk about today.

Thursday, Steve and I fly out for our little mini-vacation. Just the two of us. Our 20th anniversary is June 3 so we thought we would just get away for few days and enjoy each others company and do nothing or whatever we want to do. I can't wait!

Tomorrow is my baby boy's 17th birthday. That's all I will say about that until then cause I want to dedicate an entire post just to him So, stay tuned until tomorrow......

Hope everyone enjoys their Memorial Day!

"I can't do that"

2009-05-21T17:20:00.002-07:00

Today, at 3pm, Chandler and I had a meeting at Motlow State Community College. He's thinking that's probably where he will start out when he graduates from high school next year.

So, Chandler and I are there with the advisor guy. He starts explaining things to us and says that there is a $10 registration fee with the application until July 09, then it goes up to $25. He told us that we didn't need to send the application in until February 2010. He said to me, you could just fill out the application now to get the $10 app fee and then just not show up. That way you don't have to pay the $25. From there our conversation was this:

me - I can't do that

dude - yes, you can

me - but that's at lie. I can't knowingly lie

dude - ***he says nothing***

me - i would rather pay the $25 and be honest about it

We finished with our meeting and Cha and I left.

When we got in the car, I said to Chandler....."can you believe how he just wanted me to lie, like it was no big deal.

Chandler said ...."yeah, like you're gonna go to hell over $15. LOL!

People don't think anything about stuff like that. Alot of people would think that is no big deal. But there is absolutely NO WAY I would or could do that. And, I 'm thankful that I couldn't.

Fearfully and Wonderfully made

2009-05-15T04:59:00.000-07:00

Today is my birthday. I'm 41. Well, as my mother says, not until 3:30 something this afternoon. That is when I was born. She told me last night that she wasn't going to call me until 3:30. ha!

As far as I'm concerned, today, ALL day is my birthday so I shall claim it. ha!

I'm not sure that everyone knows this story, but, ONLY by God's Grace and Mercy am I having this day. 41 years ago, my father was told by the Dr after my mother was in labor for 15 hours....."Your wife should be fine, but the baby will not make it." That baby was me.

My father made his way straight to the men's room and knelt down in the stall between the wall and the toliet (kinda gross to think about now, but at the time he was desperate....and boy, am I glad he did it)

He begged God to let his first born live. After conversing with the Lord, he made his way back to where my mother was. By the time he got back....tada.......ME!

God had answered his prayer and allowed me to live. THANK YOU, JESUS!

So, today, because of PRAYER, I am having my 41st birthday. God has blessed my life more than words can describe. I'm grateful and thankful to God.

I love the Lord more than breathe and desire to make my life count for HIM. Without Him, none of us would be here, but I feel especially blessed because of what my father was told. I have heard my daddy tell this story numerous times and every time it touches my heart and helps me to realize how powerful prayer really is.

I praise Him and thank Him for turning yet another year older. Just another reminder of God's hand on my life!!! How could I not live for Him!!!

Psalm 139: 13-14 - For thou has possessed my reins: thou has covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.

Busy next couple of days

2009-05-13T06:06:00.000-07:00

This time of the year there is always so much going on. School getting out for the summer, graduations and so on. Speaking of graduations, we have our first one to attend tomorrow night. Jordan Funderburk is graduating. I CAN NOT believe that. That kid should still be 5 years old. Man!

Starting tomorrow, Morgan has HSM rehearsal everyday until the actual production, which is Monday and Tuesday nights. Let's see, Friday is my birthday and I'm trying to decide where I want to go for my B-day dinner. I had decided on Cheddars (the new restaurant in Smyrna) but Les said we would wait at least an hour on Friday night. So, that's out. I'm thinking maybe Japanese Habatchi. Not sure yet. If you've got suggestions, I'll take them.

This time next year, Chandler will be graduating. I've really been praying lately about his future. College and all that stuff. It's a little overwhelming to me. All I have ever said is as long as my children's are in God's will, that is all that matters to me. And, I mean that. But, I still feel like we need some kind of a plan. We can't just sit and do nothing and expect God to zap us. We make plans, and God can change them whenever and however He wants. The mother in me feels like I need to "fix" everything for him. I literally had to quote the scripture to myself the other day......."Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not to thin own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and he shall direct thy path"

If we are doing what this scripture says....this is a promise of the Lord that He will direct our path.

Seriously, say a prayer that I will not be consumed with what Chandler needs to do, how he should do it, when he should do it, etc., ect., ect.....

I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God is in control. He has a plan for my son's future. I am much more concerned about this than Chandler himself. He is so laid back about it. He doesn't seem to be stressing at all. So, what's MY problem.

I want the best for my children, as most mothers do. The not knowing is what is killing me. That's why I have to keep bringing myself back to the above scripture. If I have to quote it to myself every single day, I know it will work.

prayers appreciated!

Mother's Day'S

2009-05-10T20:49:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day has been Mother's Day'S for us. Steve and I along with Tommy and Debbie went to IHOP for breakfast Saturday morning with my mom and dad. We left the kiddos at home, sleeping. We had a very nice time. There was alot of laughing going on. There always is when my brother is around. He's such a nut.

Saturday afternoon, we went and spent some time with Steve's mom. Again, we had a nice time. We are very blessed all the way around with the family that we have.

Today was "our" time together. Our, being the 4 of us. I decided the other day what I wanted for my Mother's Day. I wanted to just simply spend time with them. I wanted the 4 of us to have a movie night. No one on the computer or texting. Just watching movies together, hanging out. So, that 's exactly what we did. I got a couple of movies and we watched them back to back. One of them was "Facing the Giants." I had never seen it before and had heard that it was really good. It was. I cried.

I really enjoyed just being at home with my family. Blessed I tell ya, I'm just one blessed woman.

It was a very nice weekend.

GO ROYALS!!!

2009-05-09T10:09:00.000-07:00

So, last night Chandler's soccer team played for the championship. He was so nervous and excited about it. We all were.

In all my years of going to soccer games and watching my kids play, I have never been to a more exciting, intense game. The first half, 40 minutes.....no score. Very intense. The second half, 40 minutes.....no score. They all played SO hard. They gave it their all. Both teams did. Chandler played so hard, and had not had enough water that both of his calves cramped up and he had to sit out for a minute or two and stretch.

So, the game is over and still no score. We go into a 20 minute overtime. Still no score. We go into two 5 minute sudden death overtime periods and STILL no score.

By this time, we were all on or feet. Even my mom and dad. My mom has no clue about soccer except when you make a goal but she is screaming her head off. So funny! I can not tell you how intense this game was. It was neck and neck. We were all just ready to run onto the field and play with them.

Now, they pick 5 players from each team for penalty kicks. Each player of the 5 gets a chance at goal. Whoever gets the most points, of course, wins. This is when it is so hard for the goalies. It's hard to stop a ball coming right at you.

Chandler was first. HE SCORED!!!!!! Our first goal. The other team shoots and misses! YES! Our next player goes and misses. Oh man! Their player goes and misses. Pattrick (our team) scores and he breaks the school record for most goals in his high school carrerr....Go Patrick! Their team misses and then Justin shoots and scores.

WE WON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It was SO exciting! It was SO fun! The excitement when we won was just unbelievable. I was so proud of our team and of my baby boy.

Then the trophies were presented and we of course, got the championship trophy. And, they announced the players that made the all tournament team. Chandler was selected. He definitely got his dad's athletic abilities. Makes a momma proud!!!

Go Royals!

We won

2009-05-05T17:39:00.000-07:00

So, we won the first soccer game of the tournament today. Chandler scored the first two goals. One of them with his head....GO CHA! They played really well. We play again on Thursday. Hopefully, we will win that one as well.

Morgan and I went shopping today. That is something we love to do And, we love to do it together. We got some SUPER good deals. She got a really cute dress at Ross for only $7.99 and a pair of jeans at Kohls for $8.99. I got Steve and Chandler both an Adidas shirt for $12.99 and Steve a pair of dress pants on clearance for $13.50. I love deals. Oh yeah, I got myself a cute shirt at Target for 6 something. Not too bad, huh?

Tomorrow, I MUST go to the grocery store. When my house is out of peanut butter....it's time! I eat peanut butter everyday. I'm out of peanut butter.....can't happen....lol

Tomorrow, I'm also taking my grandfather to the doctor. He had this place come up on his shoulder that's been bothering him. I took him last week to get it checked out. It's some kind of a cyst. It's nothing serious but he's having it taken off. Please say a prayer that all goes well, especially at his age.

Morgan keeps asking me if i'm almost done. I'm using her lap top. I guess she wants it so .......

It's May

2009-05-04T18:49:00.001-07:00

Can you believe it? May is already here. Crazy fast times. I love the month of May. It's pretty. All the flowers are bright. The grass is really green. Everything just looks so beautiful. It's not really that hot yet in May. It's just right, for me anyway. I just love May.

My first born was born in May. Chandler will be 17 on May 26. Now, that's crazy. My mind cannot hardly comprehend that he is that old. It's sad.

My birthday is May 15. I will be 41. My oh my! That's all I have to say about that. LOL!

Nay, it really doesn't bother me at all. Age is just a number, right?

Steve and I will be married 20 years, come June 3. We are taking a long weekend in a couple of weeks. Just the two of us, getting away. I can't wait!!! What I really can't believe is that we've been married for 20 years. Man! Awesome! Thank you, Jesus!

***Changing books -

When my dad travels to the region, (which is pretty much every weekend) he brings us something back. For example, a couple of weeks ago, he brought back oranges from Florida. Tonight we were sitting here, and he comes walking in the door, with his tie still on carrying tangerines, onions, and fresh pecans. Of course, he sat down to share how awesome his visit was. God is really bringing those "other sheep" and dad just gets SO excited telling us about it all.

Tomorrow Morgan and I have plans to go shopping. Finally, she needs new summer clothes. For several years, she has been able to wear the same ones but this year she needs some new things. We need to get up and get out of here because Cha has a soccer game at 3:30. Actually, we are in a tournament. It's the end of the season, so we need to win tomorrow to keep going. We shall see.

I guess that enough for now.....
until next time

4:15am

2009-05-02T17:31:00.000-07:00

That's what time my alarm went off this morning. Les and Kim were here to pick me up at about 5:15. We headed to Peggy's to get her and Vic. Then, we all headed to Michie, Tennesseee for Ladies Day. It took us about 3 hours and 15 minutes to get there. Quite a ways, but well worth it. We had a great day in the Lord. The theme of the day was The Joy of the Lord. There were 4 speakers, well actually 5. But the 5th was actually a message.

Yvonne spoke on......hmmmmm..... I cant' remember her exact topic. ( it was about the joy of Lord through.....????)
Shanna spoke on The Joy of the Lord through trials
I spoke on The Joy of the Lord is visible
Darla spoke on The Joy of the Lord in the Word

And then S is Jackie spoke on "The Joy of the Lord"

It was a great day. The Lord met with us there and did not disappoint.

We, had a blast driving there and back home. Vic, of course, kept us in stitches, as always. I think it's her job to be our entertainment. lol

I told Steve last night that it was gonna be a long day. And, it was. We were gone for about 12 or 13 hours. I would do it again though. It was a true blessing.

I hear my bed calling my name early tonight. I'm SO tired. Ahhhhhh.....I love sleeping! I seriously love it.

good nite all

Perfect Weather.....Perfect Weekend

2009-04-26T13:23:00.000-07:00

Steve and I had plans to put our mulch out Saturday, and we did. We started about 9 and finished about 2. It was a perfect day to work in the yard. I think at one point in the day I saw one cloud. Other than that, the sky was crystal clear, bright, blue. My legs are SO sore. Steve did the wheel barreling. He would take the mulch from the trailer, put it in the wheel barrel, bring it to where we needed it and dump it out. Then, I would get on my hands and knees and spread it out. After doing this for 4 hours, I'm feeling the pain in the leg muscles. Oh MY! I suppose I worked muscles that I don't normally work. He got our lawn mowed and everything looks purty. Working in the yard is something we enjoy.

After all that work, we went to clean the church. On our way home, I got a text from Rick (my uncle) saying..."Ya'll got plans?" I knew exactly what he meant. So, I texted back...."Let's go eat". So, we met up with Rick and Les at Hickory Falls. YUM! One of my favorites. Les and I LOVE the carrot cake. It's huge, so we usually share it. It is the best. Good stuff.

Because I worked in the yard yesterday, I didn't do much in the house. So, today, I've been playing catch up. Trying to get caught up on laundry.......it's like that song, that never ending song. It' goes on and on and on and on.

that's about it for now

would rather be outside

2009-04-23T07:10:00.000-07:00

I wanna be outside. It's gonna be 80 degrees today. WHOOOOOOO!!! Now, that's more like it. I wanna work in my yard. Dig weeds, plant flowers, that kinda stuff. Steve and I are gonna put our mulch out this weekend. I can't wait. We love that kinda work.

Last night was our first "workshop" of Youth Emphasis Week. But, first let me back up one more day to Tuesday. We had Ladies Prayer Meeting at the church. Just came together to pray. LOVE IT! It was great. Our WMB leader (Les) has asked for us to come together the 3rd Tuesday of each month for prayer. I think that's great. Just what we need.

So, last night, LaDonna spoke. She did a great job. It was very informal and our young people really opened up. The focus of the night was about each of us being "treasurers". That we each have things about us that the Lord can use for HIs Glory and Honor. She passed out this worksheet that had questions such as:
1) What do you feel is your greatest strength?
2) What do you feel is your greatest weekness?
3)Describe yourself in 3 words.
4) If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

It really opened up for some great discussion. The young people shared from their heart. The Lord opened the door for them to share things about themselves that they probably wouldn't otherwise share. It was just really awesome and I really enjoyed it. I think it would be very beneficial for our young people to have more opportunities like this.

Tonight, my hubby is the speaker. His topic is Unity. I'm looking forward to it as well.

Friday night Kim is the speaker. I can't remember her topic. But, I know she will do great, she always does.

Saturday, the young people are going hiking. That sort of thing is right up their alley. We have such great youth leaders. Galen & Amy truly have the heart for this.

I'm gonna get off here so I can be productive. I'm gonna go flower shopping and play in my yard.

have a great one!

Sunday & Monday

2009-04-20T18:52:00.000-07:00

What a super great Sunday it was. Several of our youth sang the song "Just Because" and boy did the Spirit of the Lord move in. His sweet spirit overwhelemed me! I was just SO humbled in His presence. The entire service was worship and praise to the Lord. Like a breath of fresh air, you might say. SO uplifting!!!

Then Sunday night, Bro Sutton preached such a good message on "being real". With every fiber of my being that is what I want to be. Not real in my own eyes (that could be decieving) but real before the Lord. Bro. Sutton said being real means being real when noone else is around. More and more I'm desiring to set my affection on things above NOT on things on the earth. Eternal matters is what matters!!! Oh, I want to get it right!

After church Lynn, Katie and Momma came over to the house and we watched a sad movie. Mo went home with Katie and Momma and Lady crashed here at the house, which meant this morning was our usual "coffee and talk." We seem to do that so well when we are together. I've gotten use to her being here when Daddy travels without her. Most of the time she is with him. 99.9% of the time she is with him but this time 2 brothers went with him to the lower part of Flordia to organize The Church there. Praise the Lord for what He is doing in Flordia and all over for His Sheep!

Today has been a great day too. I have just felt the Lord in a special way through out this day. Talking with Him is one of my most favorite things to do. You just can't do it too much!

I did some house cleaning (never ending) and some laundry (never ending). Went to the grocery store. Fixed baked potatos (sweet potato for me), baked Salmon, green beans and rolls. It was oh so yummy.

I checked some of Chandler's work that I needed to check. (**note to self***I really should stay on top of that better) I got his Government & Economics checked and his BTI course checked. He's doing the BTI lessons for his Bible class.

So, now I'm tired. It's only 9:07 and yep, I'm tired.

I thank the Lord for another day. Daily He loadth me with benefits!!!!!

SO SO SO SO tired....did I say....SO tired?

2009-04-18T17:39:00.000-07:00

I told my husband tonight that I didn't know how it did it everyday. Get up at 5:30am....every morning. I guess it's what your body gets use too. My body is not use to it at all. Of course, it didn't help that I didn't go to bed until 11:30 last night. I was at Kim's for Vicky's birthday party and we sat around and talked until 11:00. Imagine that ....us talking? NO!....YES!!!!! It was fun!

But, today sitting at Ladies Day, after lunch, I was struggling. I was SO tired. That's not good. I know better. I knew I was gonna be at Ladies Day today, yet, I stayed up late anyway. Silly me. Although, I was tired, I really enjoyed Ladies Day. It was very encouraging and uplifting. I was blessed by everything but Sis. Jackie Zimmerman's message really spoke to me. Especially the part at the end.

Our theme today was about the Joy of the Lord. At the end of her message she spoke on "things" the enemy will use to try and rob our joy. One thing she mentioned was our time. When we get so busy doing stuff, even stuff for the Lord that we neglect what is most important, that being, our personal relationship with Him, we can loose our joy. Think about it, haven't you ever just been SO busy that you don't give Him the time you need to give Him? We let our priorities get all out of wack. Am I the only one that has done this?! When we have to schedule the Lord into our day, something needs to give. He should be first, even if other things go by the way side. She encouraged us that if something needs to be neglected, it should be the things that will not benefit us eternally. I agree!

I was really blessed by this. At the end of her message, we spent time at the alter. That's exactly where we can and will keep our priorities where they should be.

So, now I'm back home in the bed and it's only 7:51. I love that! I need a good night sleep. I'm one that needs at least 8 hours a night. Not want....NEED! I do not do well on little sleep.

that's all
good nite!

get er done!

2009-04-17T13:51:00.000-07:00

Today has been productive. I just love productive days!

First, I'm LOVIN this weather. Today is a true Spring day. So much so that right this very minute, the heat is off (of course) and my windows are raised and the celling fans are roaring. AH! gotta love that! I think it's about 73 today. And that sun is just a shining. Perfect! Thank you, Lord for this beautiful day.

The kids just left for Chandler's soccer game. I didn't make today's game because of Vic's 50th birthday party. It starts at 6 and if I had gone to the game, I would have had to leave early anyway. I'm excited for her party. Some friends from way back in the day will be there (i think). I'm super excited! Should be fun!

Backing up to my productive day. This morning, I got my hair cut or as my hubby says...."I got them ALL cut." He says that every single time he get his cut and someone says to him..."did you get your hair cut" and he says EVERY TIME...."No, I got them ALL cut".....goofball!

From the hair cut, I went to the Y and ran 3 miles. Let's see....from there I went to make the church deposit. From there, I went to Dollar General and then home.

I've been doing some house cleaning and laundry. Is it just me or does anyone else have laundry that seems to grow? It just seems to multiply. It's never ending.

I had to write a skit for Children's Church for this Sunday. The Fox's are teaching and we are having puppet skits all quarter for our Bible lessons. When I sat down at the computer, I simply prayed...."Lord, anoint me to write this". And, that He did. I had my general idea but the Lord gave it to me very quickly. I love when that happens. The title is "It's all about "ME".

So, now I'm sitting here with Morgan's laptop posting. I need to take a shower and get ready for the PPPAAARRRTTTAAA!
****I just heard my children's voices saying....."MOM...DO NOT SAY PPPPPAAAAARRRRRRRTTTTTAAAAA....You are way to old to talk like that.****LOL!!!!

But, they are not here so PPPPPPPPAAAAAAARRRRRRRRTTTTTTTTAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tomorrow I'm heading to Cleveland for Ladies Day. I have a car full. My mom, Chels, Morgan, and Chandler. Yep, Chandler! No, he's not a Lady but he has a friend in Cleveland that he's going to visit. It's gonna be a great day. I just know it. The Lord and the Ladies......can't beat it, right?

hope every one has a super duper weekend!

Home schooling (i titled this after I wrote the post)

2009-04-14T19:22:00.000-07:00

Let see.....

Yesterday and today we had soccer games. We froze both times. Yesterday was rainy and cold, not just cold. Today, no rain, but cold. I really hope this was the last game that I have to sit there wrapped up in a blanket. I hope this was the last of those...."blueberry, blackberry, whatever berry winters." Just bring on the warmth, please!

Tomorrow morning Morgan and I are headed to the dentist. Time, well actually past time for our cleaning. Chandler was suppose to be going with us but he has to work. I'll have to re-schedule his appointment. Steve is going from work to have his cleaned. It's past time for all of us. I'm pretty good, usually, about our every 6 month cleaning. This time I've kinda let it slip.

Lately, with such business, we haven't been able to get a good day of math in. It's been very hit and miss. We've home schooled for so long and now that the kids are older, they pretty much do their work on their own. Except for math. I usually do it with them. I was determined that today we would have a productive day. And, we did! For this, I'm happy!

When Cha and I were doing his Geometry today, we got to talking about all the years of home schooling and how time has flown with it. He graduates next year. Absolutely...UNBELIEVABLE!!! He said, remember when I use to do math on the board? He meant the dry/erase board. Oh those days! Boy could I share some stories. Stories of laughter and tears. Good days and bad days. Days of deciding to go to the park instead of doing school because it was so warm in January. (true story, we actually did that). Days of sounding out letters to form words and then sentences. I love the fact that I taught both of my children to read.

***O.K. so bear with me a minute here.....I'm having a Hallmark moment****

Days of taking turns helping the kids. Monday & Wednesday was Morgan's day to got first. Tuesday & Thursday was Chandler's day to go first. What I mean by "going first" is who I helped first. Days of flash cards to learn times tables. Days of going over spelling list again and again. Days of getting a phone call right in the middle of doing History (or whatever we might have been doing) because someone needed special prayer and us stopping right then and there to pray together. The Science experiments in the kitchen. The satisfaction on one of my kids face when they "get it". And, the pride (in a good way) that "I" had a small part in them "getting it." Sitting at the dinner table and sharing with the "principal" (aka..Steve) what we learned in school that day.

Boy, I could go on and on and on. Home schooling has been a true blessing in our home. I know it's not for every family but for the Fox family, it has worked. And, for this, I truly thank the Lord from the bottom of my heart! I wouldn't go back and trade it, not even for one day!

How in the world I got off on all of that, I don't know. It just started pouring out of me. HA!

I have LOVED this day!

2009-04-12T19:10:00.000-07:00

What a great day. I have loved it. Seriously LOVED it. We woke up this morning to bright blue sunny skies. Just so Eastery. Just happy, ya know!

Church was great. Such a wonderful spirit. Oh let me back up to yesterday. The cookout and Easter egg hunt went great. We had a great turn out. There was just a fun spirit there. Great fellowship, great day! ***I just realized that I used the word great, 5 times in this paragraph.***

Today...Easter!!!! We also had a good turn out for service. Bro. Sutton preached a great Easter message. Very encouraging! He's just so encouraging anyway. Even when he says something that could possibly "sound" discouraging or negative in any way, he quickly turns it around to the positive and encouraging. I love that!

After service, I left church pretty quick so that I could get home to get ready for my family. Round about 2 they got to the house. We had SUCH a good time. There is ALWAYS laughter when we get together. And, lots of pictures being taken. You can see those pics on my facebook page.

Our Easter menu was ham, baked beans, potato salad, corn on the cob, fruit salad, and german chocolate cake. Good eatin!

After visiting for a while, we decided to ride and see Tommy & Debbie's new house. They are building a new home about 3 miles from my house. It's beautiful.

Oh, I can't not say something about how cute and pregnant my pastor's wife looked this morning. I'm just so happy for them and this miracle God has blessed them with. She was glowing today!!!

I truly hope everyone had a great day. How could you not, right?!

Great Friday

2009-04-10T06:17:00.001-07:00

Today is Good Friday. To me, it's Great Friday. It's Great because of what Jesus did for me. I don't ever want to forget or take for granted how He suffered and died so that I could live. It's an honor and privilege to live a life for the Lord. It's a "GREAT" life. A life of peace! We were watching this documentary the other night on exactly what happens to a body when it is being crucified. They were talking about what all happen to Jesus. I made the comment to my family..."How could you NOT live for Him, after what He did for us?"

It's hard for me to comprehend a life without the Lord. Actually, I don't want to comprehend it. By His Grace and Mercy, I never will. I love the Lord! I love to live for Him! I desire to please Him!

So, Steve is off of work today for the Easter weekend. Our plan was to get our mulch out. But, don't think that's gonna happen. It's suppose to rain really hard today. I'm kinda bummed about that. It would have been a perfect day to work in the yard with him being home. Oh well.....

This is gonna be a good weekend. Tomorrow we are having a cookout and Easter egg hunt at the church. Just good ole fellowship. I love it. At six that night, I will be a t Chuck E Cheese. My nephew is turning 3 years old.

After church Sunday, the family is coming to our house. We are celebrating Easter and birthday's. My dad 's birthday was Wednesday. He turned 60. WOW! Thank the Lord! Rick's birthday is the 16th and Tommy's birthday is the 22nd. So, we are hitting them all at once. Also, my grandparents anniversary is this month. So, we are just having a hang out here at the house.

I'm looking forward to all the stuff going on this weekend. I think I might get out my Easter decorations today. I haven't done that and with everyone coming over, I think I want it to look Eastery. hehe!

I hope everyone truly enjoys this Easter. Remember what Jesus did for us! Le't s celebrate HIM!

4 hours

2009-04-07T18:45:00.001-07:00

For a while now, LaDonna and I have talked about having coffee together. Over the years, when we have been able to, we sit and have coffee and talk. You know, just catch up and stuff. She and I go wwwwwwaaaaaaayyyyyyy back. We have been friends, very good friend, best friends since we were younger than our kids. We've grown up together and now our kids are growing up together. I just love that!!!

Last week, we decided that we would get together today for that coffee date. Sunday at church, she asked if I wanted to not only have coffee but breakfast at IHop. Well....YEAH! Pancakes....of course!

We met there at 9 this morning and I got in my car to come home at 1. Yep, 4 straight hours. That's what we do. We both have busy lives. But, when we finally can get together we can talk and talk and talk. And, what I love about it is it's as if we talk every single day. That's true friendship. I love her dearly. Man, do we have some memories. It was great. We talked about old stuff, current stuff and future stuff. Well, the future of our kids. ha!

I SO enjoyed it. By the time we finally left, it was time for lunch. HA!

I love ya, LaDonna!

I AM getting old

2009-04-06T06:08:00.000-07:00

If you read my last post, you know that I forgot to pay our phone bill since February. Last night, after church, it was brought to my attention that my car tags were expired. Good Grief! What is my problem?! haha! So, today, that's one of the things I will be doing. Ah!

It was a great weekend. Friday night Steve and I went to dinner with his mother. Saturday, Steve went and mowed the lawn at the church. When he got home, we did some much needed yard work. We are going to be getting our mulch this week and working on that. I want to plant a few flowers but this weather is messing things up for me. It was beautiful this weekend. But, today the high is 43. That is crazy. If I plant flowers now, the frost at night might kill them. So, I will wait a bit longer.

Saturday night, Steve, Rick, Les, Kim, Olivia and I went to the Japanese Hibatci place. I LOVE THAT FOOD. I think it's one of my favorites. SO good! And, so filling!

Oh yeah, Saturday afternoon, Steve and I rode around looking at houses that we might like to "retire" in. HA! Isn't that funny? It was a beautiful afternoon and we just went riding and looking. When the kids are grown, we will move one last time, into a smaller house. We will not need the space that we have now with the kids gone so we just wanted to get an idea on what we both liked. We are not moving anytime soon, but just for the future, IF the Lord tarries.

Steve and I are fixing to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. That is just SO bizzare to me. TIME FLIES!!!! What I mean by bizzare is how quickly it has gone by. I have been with that man longer than I haven't. Cool, huh?

Morgan got home from the GA/FL youth convention last night around 8. She had a blast. From the moment that she walked in the door she started talking. I mean, non-sop talking. Have you ever heard those "fast talkers" on T.V.? I think she could give them a run for their money. She had to tell Steve and I every detail. I love it! I'm very thankful that my kids got to go.

Well, Monday is here. Time for a new week. I hope everyone has a great one. Make every day count for Jesus! That's really all that matters!!!

OH NO!

2009-04-03T16:03:00.000-07:00

I'll get to the title!

This weekend is just me and my sweetie. Well, until tomorrow night anyway. The kids have gone to the GA/FL youth convention. Momma recruited several of the youth to go and support. This morning one van left and then this afternoon the other car left. My mom and dad took Morgan, Kaite, Chelsei, Lindsei and Emilylynn with them. They left about 9ish. They are there safe and sound and ready for service tonight. This afternoon Chandler, Josh and Andrea headed out in my parents car. My mom & dad rented a van to take all those girls and left the car behind for the other 3.

This morning I was asked by my dad to take the car and get the oil changed and have it washed. So, I did, being the good daughter that I am. :) Chandler had class until 1:30 as did Andrea and Josh had something he was doing, that 's why they didn't get to leave until about 4. Please say a prayer for their safe travel if you read this before midnight. That's about the time they will get to Georgia. They will be coming home tomorrow afternoon. There is two sessions and then some of them are heading back. Morgan, Katie and Andrea are staying with my mom and dad and visiting one of the church's there in Georgia Sunday morning. Then, they will head back to TN. I'm glad my kiddos are getting to go. I want them to be involved as much as possible with things such as this.

Tonight, I am going to Hickory Falls for dinner with my hubby and mother-n-law. Yum! Tomorrow, Steve and I may be doing some yard work. Sunny and 73 degrees...can't beat it.

Now, back to my "OH NO" title. You will not believe what happen today. Although, I don't think it is altogether my fault. (hehe)

I sat down to pay bills. I pay several of them online. I get a notification thru email when it is ready to be paid and I pay it. Our cable bill was ready. Our cell phone bill was ready. And, our home phone bill was ready. When I clicked on the home phone bill, it said $286.00. WHAT?????? I did some checking and.....I HAD NOT PAID THE HOME PHONE BILL SINCE FEBRUARY. You have GOT to be kidding me. How in the world did that happen?! When I got to investigating it, there was a button on my page that said....."do you want a notification thru email when your bill is ready?" (or something to that effect). Well, it was not checked. Therefore, I was not getting the notifications. ***told you it wasn't all together my fault***

I guess the reason I got a notification today was because my bill was getting so high and they wanted their money. ha!

I have NO idea what happened. For a while, I was getting the notifications so I have no clue how it got unchecked. I'm surprised they didn't cut our phone off. Anyway, I paid the stinkin thang. And, I checked the circle to get notified again, so hopefully that won't happen again. Good grief!!!

Hope everyone has a super weekend!

3 years

2009-04-01T05:21:00.000-07:00

3 years ago today was a beautiful, sunny day! It's strange how I remember this because my memory is horrible most of the time. But this is a day I'll never forget. Even details! The guys.....Steve, Rick and Chandler left for Georgia to go to the Masters (in case your not sure what that it, it's a really uptido golf tournament.) Tiger Woods and those guys play in it. Anyway, it's not easy to get tickets but this year, Steve got them. They were super excited to be going. Backing up a bit, before they left we all went to McDonalds to eat lunch. The guys and us girls (me, Mo, and Les). When the guys left for Georgia, us girls decided to go to Opry Mills and do some shopping. After we shopped, we went to O'Charley's for dinner. ***I can't believe I remember such details, seriously, it's not usual for me). After eating, Les headed home and Morgan and me went to our house. Morgan slept in the bed with me that night because that's what she does when it's just us girls here.

The phone in my room wasn't working for some reason. So, that's why when it rang around 6am, I didn't hear it. Finally, after numerous tries, I barely heard it. I jumped out of bed, ran through the house into the family room and grabbed it. As I was picking it up, I realized the handset caller I.D said.....Rick Moncrief

"Why would Les be calling me this early?"

"Hello?"

"Tammy, Bradley has been in a car accident, he's being LIFE FLIGHTED to Vanderbilt."

"OH Jesus.....OH God......Les, what do I do?"

"I don't know, Tam"

we hang up

Praying the entire time.....I call my mom

"Momma, OH God....."

We are both in hysterics.

I asked her what I needed to do. She told me to call Lynn to come get Morgan.

I called Les back to come get me to head to the hospital.

I CLEARLY remember pacing in my living room saying over and over and over....."JESUS, PLEASE HAVE MERCY....JESUS, PLEASE HAVE MERCY"

That was the beginning of the hardest summer of my life!!!!!!!!!!! I wouldn't wish it on anyone. But, God brought us through. There were days, numerous days, that He carried us in His arms. He will NEVER leave nor forsake us.

We've come a long way. Bradley has come a long way. He's already a miracle because the Dr.'s told us he would be a vegetable the rest of his life. He's not a vegetable. Thank you, Jesus!

Are we where we want to be? Of course not. We are trusting God that He's not finished with Brad. God has a work for Bradley Ryan Moore. He spared his life for a reason. By every since of the word, we should be coming up on the anniversary of his death. But, God DID have mercy as I prayed in my living room that morning.

When I think about it, it's still so weird that this has happened and that his life changed so drastically but my hope and trust is in a God that knows exactly what He's doing. I believe the Word when it says that ALL things work together for our good.

So, please keep praying for him. Please believe with us that one day the work that God started, He will complete. We, as a family are believing just that. There is no room or no place to stop believing or stop praying. One of these prayers for his healing will be the last.

TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!!!!!!!!!

Great weekend

2009-03-29T13:08:00.000-07:00

The guys left for mens retreat Friday around 7:00pm. Josh rode with Steve and Cha. As soon as they left, I headed to meet momma, Rick, Les, Rachel, Rex and Bradley for dinner. I was late. I was suppose to be there at 6:30 but Steve wasn't home from work yet and I really wanted to tell him goodbye before he left for the weekend, so I did.

Momma came straight home from there to stay the weekend. Lady, her dog, too. Our 3 girl weekend turned into a 2 girl weekend for the first night. Morgan had ditched us. She spent the night at Emily's. My mom and I just hung out and talked. Not for long though, because neither one of us are night owls. So much for party animals. We are boring. haha!

Saturday morning, she got up before I did and already had the coffee made. We talked some more. Just about this and that and the other. I love talking with my mom. Oh wait......I forgot.....

Steve texted me about 11:30 Friday night from the retreat. I know most everyone knows this already but he texted me to let me know that Matt Zimmerman had received the Holy Ghost. I was SO excited. Thank you, Jesus!

Let's see, where was I?... oh yeah, after my mom & talked for quite sometime Saturday morning, she went to her house to get a few things done. I really didn't do a whole lot. It was rather nice. Around 4ish I went to clean the church. Thanks to Morgan and Crystal for their help.

When I left the church, I called my mom (she wanted me to let her know when I was finished cleaning) so she could come back to the house. She stopped at the store to get eggs and whole wheat flour. I made whole wheat banana/nut pancakes for us. They were SO good. I'm not kidding you. If you are a pancake eater and like bananas and nuts, make them. They were so good that my mom and I had 3 each. Morgan was at Emily's again. She didn't stay the night but she wasn't home to have the pancakes. Later, mom and I went and picked her up and brought her home. I was telling her about the pancakes and she said they sounded good. I had some of the batter left so she had one for breakfast this morning and loved them too. She said she liked them as much as the chocolate chip pancakes.

Last night at 10 pm, my mom gets this idea of breaking out old home video. So, we did. And, we watched them until 1:15am. Time flies and you realize it when you look at old videos of your kids. It breaks my heart to see them growing up so fast. We had the best time watching those. We could have kept watching them but we had to get up this morning for church. I was ministering in Columbia so we had to just stop. We could have watched them all night, I do believe. My babies were so precious. Of course, what mother doesn't think that, right?

We headed to Columbia for church this morning. We had service in the home of Bro. & Sis. Scroggins. It was wonderful. Being in someone's home worshipping the Lord is just so personal and special. Laura taught Sunday School. It was great. From our opening prayer, we could really feel such a sweet spirit. I ministered on the subject....Desire+Action=Victory!

The reason we were in their home is because Bro. Scroggins was in an accident on Thursday. He was hit by a car. He was banged up pretty good but the Lord was truly with him. It could have been much worse. Please say a special prayer for his recovery.

After church, Sis.Scroggins insisted that we stay for lunch. Laura had brought them dinner and I had made a pie. Her daughter was there helping out and had made a pot of chicken n dumplings. She would not hear of us leaving and going somewhere to eat. So we enjoyed a very nice lunch together.

Now, I'm back home, so tired, and my men just walked in the door from retreat. How come when the word "retreat" is involved you are exhausted?! ha! I thought retreat meant rest. Any ladies retreat I've ever been too, and I've been to a ton, I always come home needing rest. But, of course, the tiredness is always worth the blessings you receive.

Steve hasn't been home 10 minutes and he's now got to go cut my Nanny's yard. Bradley use to do it for her but since the accident, Steve has taken over the responsibility. And, since he 's been gone all weekend, this is the only opportunity. He's exhausted!

So, that's the rundown of the weekend for me. It's been nice! Being with my mom has been wonderful. We laugh like no other. Seriously, we have such laughter when we are together. I love it!

Finally

2009-03-26T17:30:00.000-07:00

I finally got to cleaning my laundry room today. Spic and Span, it is. Boy, there is some kind of junk behind the washer and dryer. Shew...nasty! It's done though, so I'm glad about that. The only other thing that I want to accomplish while on Spring break is cleaning out Chandler's closet and doing his base boards and blinds. Since tomorrow is the last official day of our break, not counting the weekend, I guess tomorrow will be the day for that. He's got tons of clothes that he doesn't wear. I'm ready to get them out of there.

Steve and Cha are leaving for men's retreat tomorrow afternoon. My dad is the guest minister so he is going also. I think my mom and Lady, her dog, are coming here for the weekend. We will be having a girls slumber party. Even all the dogs are girls. ha! I'm looking forward to it. We are gonna do.....well....whatever we want too. Drink lots of coffee, I'm sure!

I've been praying for the men's retreat. I hope every man there receives exactly what they need from the Lord. Speaking of the retreat, I made a peanut butter pie for the fellowship dinner we had at district convention. Bro. Chance, the retreat director ate some and requested that I make a few to send with Steve. So, tomorrow I will be making 4 peanut butter pies for the men for this weekend. I'm sure they will last, no longer than Friday night. haha!

have a good one!

The dog woke me

2009-03-25T06:13:00.000-07:00

At 7:30, Pancake, our dog growled at me. I was sleeping nicely but she needed to go potty. I've been taking advantage of Spring break with my sleeping. I think I stayed in bed until 9 on Monday. I was exhausted from the weekend. And, I think yesterday was around 8:30. But, when I got up this morning to let Pancake out at 7:30, I decided to just stay up.

I want to get some things accomplished today. Since men's retreat is this weekend, Jeff Yohe asked me to come to Columbia to fill in for him. I've gotten the inspiration and have my notes but I need to finalize it and type it out. I would love to be done with that today.

I want to clean out my laundry room. Chelsei asked me last night what I was gonna do on my Spring break and I hesitated to say, "clean." Everyone makes a big deal that I clean so much. They give me a hard time. I'm known as, Tammy, the cleaner. But, it doesn't bother me at all. I enjoy it and I love the result of clean so really and truly, I can be made fun of all day long and I'll just keep right on cleaning. Lindsei has been staying with us for the past couple of weeks. She said to me, "I bet you couldn't go one day without cleaning something". Well, I could, but I choose not too. I don't like clutter and dirt. Can't help it. It's just me. So, all you out there that give me a hard time, go right ahead. But at the end of the day, my house will be clean. HA!

Tonight we are starting a series of Bible study on "The Family". AH! I'm gonna love this. Bro. Sutton felt lead of the Lord, to do this over the next couple of months on the 4th Wednesday night. I'm super excited. Some of the topics are going to be about raising children, finances, marriage and such as that. That is SO my cup of tea. Anything to do with the Lord and the family is just my thing. Bro. Hall is ministering tonight. I can't wait!

O.K. so I'm gonna go get my second cup of coffee and finish up that message. Hope you all have a great day!

Needing a nap

2009-03-22T13:30:00.000-07:00

Shew! What a whirl wind of a weekend. A great weekend, but a tiring one.

Yesterday morning started at 5:15am. We (myself, Morgan & Lindsei) left the house and arrived to pick Les up at about 6:35 (or somewhere there bouts). And, off to Cleveland we headed. Chandler had gone down Friday night with Keith. It's not a bad drive at all, really. We got there just in time for the first session to begin. It was great. Antioch youth did an awesome skit. They were spread out all throughout the sanctuary. Chandler was "the runner". Each of the youth had a sign on them. Some of the words were "hatred", "lying" and such as that. Then there were some of them that had " Jesus" on their sign. The sign Chandler was wearing said, "determined". He had to run past each one and the "ugly" words were trying to hinder his progress. They would stand in front of him and try to block him. Then along the way, there were those that were encouraging him and and pushing him to continue running. Toward the end, he even got so tired that he almost fell but Morgan (one of the encouraging ones), helped him up and encouraged him to continue. At the end, Jesus was standing there with a crown for Chandler. It was really good. It blessed me.

Shanna Weeks brought the message. GREAT! Boy, she did a good job! The Lord really used her.

At lunch, a big group of us went to O'Charley's. It was nice fellowship. Sitting there at the table, I told Chels, "I love The Church of God." And, I really, really do! I'm SO humbled and grateful that my children are being raised right smack in the middle of the truth. Thank God for His Grace and Mercy in my life and my family.

The afternoon session was just as wonderful. The Zion Hill youth did their skit and it was great as well. Then, Kim preached. Her message blessed me too. I SO love how she is just open and honest. She shares from her heart and that is what people can relate too. A true blessing.

We had a camp staff meeting after the convention was over. It was a very productive meeting. I think my responsibility this year is gonna be something that in all my years of camp, I have never done. It should be tons of fun. I'm looking forward to it. Wondering what it is? Kim asked me to do "Funtime." If you guys out there that have been in camp before and remember Funtime, toss me some ideas. I'd love to read them.

We headed back home around 5:30. The kids, not just mine, all the youth wanted to stay around and play volleyball. So, us adults had to cram in my car so that we could leave Jeff and Laura's car for them to bring home. So......me, Jeff, Laura, Les and Lindsei packed in my car and came home. Lindsei didn't want to stay, she was tired and ready to be home. I can't say that I blame her. Then, a little while later.....Josh, Andrea, Chels, Chandler and Morgan made it back home. AH! To be young again, and never get tired. How DO they do it? ! After that kind of a weekend, they had to be at the church this morning at 7:30 to work the pancake breakfast. They did it. I'm oh so proud of them. And, now, right now, they are at the park playing volleyball again. My goodness....their energy is endless.

I, on the other hand, as my title says....NEED A NAP! That has become my Sunday afternoon ritual. I know for at least the past 2 Sundays, I have taken a nap. I'm talkin in the bed, under the covers with my fan roaring kinda nap. You gotta love it. It's such a beautiful day though. Should I waste it with a nap?.....YEP, I think so. haha!

We will be on Spring break all week. Yippee!

Nice quiet house

2009-03-19T08:05:00.000-07:00

That's because Morgan and Lindsei are not up yet. HaHa! Chandler had to be at work this morning at 8 and Chels has already left. She stayed the night last night but has a busy day so she's already gone So....I've had my morning devotion and now I'm checking out blogs, facebook and such.

The sun is not shining today but that's o.k. because it was really bright and warm yesterday. I worked in the yard. It was nice to get the old dead stuff up and cleared out. I think it's suppose to rain today. And, not quite as warm.

I think I'm still a little tired. My mom called this morning at 7:30 and woke me up. I was sleeping so good. Oh well....

Morgan has HSM practice today at noon. I need to go to the store for a few things. I need to go to the church bank for my hubby.

This post is rather scattered.

This weekend is the youth convention. Chandler is going down tomorrow night after his soccer game. Me, Les and the girls are leaving bright and early Saturday morning. I'm looking forward to it. I pray that the Lord really blesses our young people really good. Well, I should say.....I pray that our young people respond to the Lord because I know he wants to bless them. So, young people, be obedient and get what God's got for ya!!!

Sunday morning we are having a Pancake breakfast at church. It is going towards March World Missions. Yum-O. I love me some pancakes. Seriously, LOVE them. I love the ones from I-Hop that have nuts in them. Yes, nuts. They are too good. I think they are some kind of whole-grain with nuts. MMMMMMMM.....goood!

Man, it's gonna be a busy weekend! I guess if you're gonna be busy, it's best to be busy doing things for the Lord!

I guess I'll post

2009-03-16T17:56:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we were in revival. AWESOME! The preaching was awesome. Bro. Dupre (Poppa) was the minister. I love hearing his wisdom. I wish I had half that wisdom. I've known him a long, long, long time. He was my pastor all of my growing up years. He married Steve and me and he and Brenda are Chandler's godparents. Our families go wwwwaaaaayyyyy back. Great memories together. Some of the things that he said during his messages were simply, well, I don't really have the words. Just what we needed, to say the least. Thank the Lord!

One thing I remember him saying...."everything we do, from this point forward will determine where we end up". So simple, but yet so deep. Think about it...."everything we do". Makes me want to do everything right. How bout you?

Saturday we had TN/AL Music Day. That Janet Talley is just so talented. And, so funny. I love her. She did a great job, of course. We enjoyed great fellowship and some yummy spaghetti.

It was a very tiring weekend. By Sunday afternoon, I so needed a nap and I got one. After church, the family (the 4 of us, momma, daddy, Rick and Les)( and Lindsei...she's staying with us until next Thursday) went to eat Mexican. We started telling stories and got hysterical laughter. I love to laugh so hard that it hurts. The kind that you cannot control. It's the best. Well, its the best unless it's in church. Which has happened to me more times than I can count.

I got that Sunday afternoon nap then headed back to church. Good stuff, I tell ya.

Today has been a good day too. The weather is warming up. Tomorrow is suppose to be in the 70's. YES!!!! And, tomorrow is Chandler's first outdoor soccer game. Perfect weather for that.

Next week we are on spring break. Ah! nice!

I'm gonna go take a nice hot bath so bye for now!

From 80 to 30

2009-03-12T08:14:00.000-07:00

What in the world?! This weather is the craziest. I prefer the warm over the cold. I really, really, hope this is the last spell of the cold. Snow?! The weather people said possible snow. Nuts, I tell ya....nuts!

Revival starts tomorrow night. I'm expecting good stuff! No! No!... GREAT stuff. If you can come, you should. It's my weekend to clean the church. I think I'm gonna go today and get it over with. It needs to be cleanded for tomorrow night. That's when the revival starts.

Also, we are having a Music Workshop on Saturday. Janet will be coming to direct. I think it's for the states of Tennessee and Alabama. Should be fun. Then the revival again Saturday night and Sunday. Bro. Dupre,(Poppa) is the guest minister.

Not much else to report. I've gotta take Morgan to her HSM rehearsal today.

that's about it

Spring cleaning....Part Two

2009-03-10T15:33:00.000-07:00

Nope, I'm still not finished. But, I'm getting closer. Ah! i love it. I absolutley LOVE clean.

One of the things accomplished today was Morgan's closet. Shew!!!!! That child had some stuff. And, that's exactly all that it was ...STUFF! She helped me, with her closet. If I had my way, more stuff would have been thrown out but she insisted on keeping some of it. It does look much better, I must say. Off the subject of cleaning for a second. Morgan came to me about 2 hours ago and said she was bored. What could she do?! She came up with the idea of drawing. She loves to draw and is rather good at it. So, here's what she decided. She got a blanket, her colored pencils, paper, her phone (of course) and Dakota (her dog) and went to the front yard. She has been there ever since, at least 2 hours, drawing our house. Yep, looking at our house and drawing it. I'm really anxious to see it. If she will let me, I'll take a picture of it to post.

Back to my cleaning! I cleaned the bonus room. Morgan's bathroom and the hallway. When I say hallway, I mean scrubbing the baseboards and such. The only thing I really have left is the laundry room, the guest bedroom and Chandler's room. Now, that (Cha's) will be a job. His closet needs some serious help. After it's all done, I should celebrate. Hmmm,,,what should I do for myself. haha!

I want to have my carpets professionally cleaned. I'm thinking April for that.

After I get the inside of the house finished, it will be time to do the outside. But, after today, the weather is suppose to cool off again. Bummer! I'm not working in the yard when I have to wear a coat. No sir-ee! Gotta be warm for this sista to work outside. We need to seal our driveway and sidewalk this year.

Well, gotta go clean some more. Not much more for today!

Morgan said I could post her drawing!

Tired but Accomplished!!!

2009-03-06T18:39:00.000-08:00

Well, I did it. Today, I officially started my Spring cleaning. "Started" being the important word here. I worked ALL day. Not kidding you! I stopped long enough to eat lunch and when my car was ready to be picked up (yah, no crunch anymore), Chandler drove me to get it. I had a few errands to run while I was out. Then, back home. By this time it was about 5 and I was pretty much done with the cleaning for today. I'm not finished. Oh no! Didn't get to the upstairs at all.

I started in my closet. I had things in there that I haven't worn in years. So, I bit the bullet and gave them to Goodwill. Well, they are in a bag, ready to go to Goodwill. There was this one dress that I took off the hanger, folded it, looked at it again and almost kept. I even held it up to myself. But, I quickly reminded myself...."Tammy, get rid of it. You haven't had that on in way to long." So, it's in the bag. Good for me, right?!

Next, I tackled my bathroom. I cleaned all the baseboards. Man, it's amazing how much hair is in a bathroom. SICK!!! I vacuumed the drawers and wiped them out. And, threw things away from under the counter. It's so freeing to throw things away when you are Spring cleaning...I loved it! I got all the baseboards scrubbed in my bedroom, the living room, the foyer, the dining room, the hallways and our family room. Oh, and Chandler's bathroom. I cleaned/dusted all the blinds in those rooms as well. And, the celing fans. I wiped down the doors...front and back.

The kitchen was a job within itself. I scrubbed above all the kitchen cabnits and cleaned all the stuff that I have sitting up there as well. I cleaned the inside of the fridge. I had a scare while doing that. Because I had the door open for a while, the light on the inside of the fridge had gotten really, really hot. I accidentally touched the light bulb with the wet rag that I was using to clean with and .......POP!!!!! Very loudy, it busted. Scared the bujebees out of me. It sounded like a shot gun (not quite so loud, but you get the idea). But, that fridge sure is clean. Sparkling! I pulled the fridge out and cleaned behind it. I even mopped my kitchen floor and in the family room. That's not really spring cleaning, the mopping part, it's more like basic cleaning but it needed it, so I went ahead and did it.

Let's see....I still have my laundry room to tackle and the guest bedroom for downstairs. Then, I will hit the upstairs. I just love it when everything is really clean. Makes me feel good!

Unfortunatley, I will not get to continue my cleaning tomorrow. We will be leaving the house at 8am. Chandler has an indoor soccer tournament. He plays 5 games. I'm looking forward to it. It's kicking off our soccer season. Please pray for Cha. His throat is still hurting but he is bound and determined to play. He's already in bed. I'm hoping he sleeps really, really well.

I guess I will have to continue my Spring cleaning next week. Or maybe, I can do a little in between servcies on Sunday. We shall see.

until next time

"GET UP"

2009-03-05T16:46:00.000-08:00

My phone rang this morning.......

"hello?"

"get up.....I'm on my way for coffee"

It was my mom. She said...."did you get my text?" "Uh.....NO....I'm not even up yet."

"Oh...well.....be spontaneous.......start the coffee." "O.K"

She must have been only about 1/2 mile away from my house cause very shortly she comes walking thru my front door. She and my dad both have keys to my house.

She had her coffee cup in her hand. She filled her cup, I filled my cup, she sat on the chair, I sat on the loveseat and we were there for the next 2 hours. I loved it! Seriously, I cannot explain how grateful and thankful for the relationship she and I share. It goes beyond words. There is this bond that we have that I wouldn't trade for the world. And, the precious thing to me is that my daughter and I have that same bond.

I look to my mother for advice. And, the cool thing is, the really cool thing is.....she looks to me for advice as well. Ah!!!!

It was a super nice way to start my day. Before she left, she went upstairs, opened Chandler's bedroom door and literally jumped in the bed with him. She's crazy! haha! Then, she headed down the hall to Morgan's room. She started to go in and do the same thing and I said...."momma....kaite lynn is in there with her". Momma said....."oh".....I don't care, I'm goin in anyway. And she did! She can just be so fun. And at almost 60!....I want to be fun when I'm 60. I don't think my mom "acts" almost 60. It's a good thing cause I wouldn't let her. haha! Age is just a number and I refuse to "act" old.

Lets see.....

I had planned on taking Chandler to the doctor today. His throat has been really sore for several days now. I made the appointment for 2:20. That was the soonest they could see us. We wanted to rule out strep throat. Well, thank the Lord, he got to feeling much better so I cancelled the appointment and he even went ahead and went to soccer practice. He's not home yet so I'm curious to see how he's feeling now.

I talked about starting my Spring cleaning soon. I think tomorrow is gonna be that day. I can't really go anywhere until later in the day because I don't have my car. It's in the shop due to the nice crunch Cha gave it the other day. So, what better time to start that cleaning.

**Cha just got home.....let's see how he feels......

His exact words...."other than my throat being sore, I'm perfectly fine" On a scale from 1 to 10, the worst being 10, he said it was a 5 or 6. Please pray for the sore throat to be gone.

So, that's my post for today.....

Slowly creeping up

2009-03-04T07:09:00.000-08:00

I'm speaking of the temperature. Each day this week it gets a little warmer and a little warmer. By Friday, I think it's gonna be in the 70's. AH!!!! Love it!!!! I'm more than ready for Spring. I think it's about time to start my Spring cleaning. My carpets need cleaning bad. I need to do windows (yuck! my least favorite) and blinds and such. And, although it's work, I love the feeling when I'm all done. I should start that soon.

Chandler is not feeling well. He came home from soccer practice on Monday, looking rough, fell down on the couch and said..."I feel awful". When he got up yesterday, he said he still felt terrible but he did go on to work. He only had to work for 2 hours. He didn't make it to soccer practice yesterday. He just couldn't do it. Last night, I'm sure he had a temp and a sore throat. He just looked like he didn't feel good. I'm hoping when he gets up this morning that he will be feeling better. Please pray for him. He has a indoor soccer tournament Saturday at MTSU. He told me last night...."Momma, I'm not missing that tournament." He would be so bummed if he couldn't play.

My dogs need a bath today. Shew! Stinky!

I just heard birds singing. Man! Spring is on the way!!!!!!!! Can you tell I'm SO ready?! I want to work in my yard and purty it all up. Flowers...ah! flowers! Nice warm days and crispy nights. Flip Flops! I love my flip flops!

Hmmmm....what else?

nothing!

My PA Day

2009-03-01T19:33:00.001-08:00

If you read my previous post, you know that we went and visited with my grandparents today. My Pa's health has taken a turn downhill so we thought it to be a good idea to visit. We had such a nice time. As soon as I got there, I went straight to my Pa. He was sitting at the dining room table eating. I gave him a huge hug and he immediatley started crying. He said, "I don't want to leave you all, but ill get to see Rita." Rita is his daughter (my dad's sister) who was killed in a car accident when she was 17. When he said that, it was enough to break your heart.

He was very weapy today off and on. He kept going on and on about how wonderful his family is. How he had the best family of all. I heard him say, "I have felt more like myself today". It was just so sweet. It was very special to be there. I took tons of pictures that you can see on my facebook page. Pictures that I'm sure I will cherish forever.

He has been having mini strokes and has dementia. He's really forgetting alot. He's really just pitiful. This past week he's really gotten worse. My Granny has been caring for him. He doesn't want her to leave his side at all. She said she has to pray him to sleep or just pat him like you would a baby. I know she's so tired. So, please pray for her strength. My Granny has always been a very, very strong lady. VERY strong becasue of her faith in the Lord.

My dad anointed him before we left and the entire family prayed for him. As we were all leaving, he said...."well, I've seen my family now, I'm ready to go to Heaven."

I love my Pa. He's always been a wonderful man. A man that knows the Bible. A man full of much faith. He would do anything for his family. As I was walking out the door, I hugged him again and he said to me, "if you need me for anything, i'll try to get there or find someone who can".

As we were pulling out of the driveway today, leaving their house, I told Steve, "I sure do have tons of memories at this house." When I was younger, I stayed with them alot. Tons of memories that I wouldn't trade for the world.

We got it!

2009-03-01T06:19:00.000-08:00

Snow! We actually got snow. It's so pretty. It's nice but it's kinda hindered our plans a little.

I got a call from my aunt on Thursday. She told me that my Pa (my dad's father) is not doing well. His health is really going down hill. My uncle Danny, (my dad's brother) and his wife (the aunt that called me) live next door to my grandparents. She told me that it would probably be a good idea for us to visit if we could. So, we all made plans to go to the Portland church (where my grandparents attend) this morning. And, then we would spend the whole afternoon visiting with them.

I have been very, very blessed to have all 4 of my grandparents for this long. I'm almost 41 so that's pretty unheard of. I'm not sure how much longer that will be so we really feel like we need to spend time with him. I'm not saying that I feel like he' s gonna die soon. I have no idea. That is in the hands of the Lord. But, if he's as bad as my aunt says, we need to go.

Back to the snow. That is what has hindered us. Because of the ice and snow, it has delayed this trip. We are keeping an eye on it. Hopefully, we can head up there this afternoon and still get that visit in. We shall see. Please pray for him and for my Granny.

Yesterday was a nice Saturday. I got some house cleaning done. I had to go to a soccer meeting for Chandler. Oh and...........Chandler accidentally crashed my car. WHAT?! yep, that's right. His car was in the garage. He was backing it out to go to work and didn't see how close he had gotten to my car as he was pulling out. And, CRUNCH. The back side now has a really nice, HUGE cave in it. I hated it for him. I felt bad for him. It was SO an accident. It could have happened to anyone. But, thankfully, noone was hurt. It could have been worse. And, in the big picture of things.....it's just a car. It's just a car with a HUGE dent now, but it 's just a car. hahaha!!!! It can be fixed.

Last night we had band service at the Mayberry's home. Lynn did a great devotion on fear. There was alot of communication going on about the subject. It was nice. We had some yummy food and really good fellowship.

If you got this snow, enjoy it. I'm hoping this is the last of "winter". I'm now really ready for Spring. Sunny, warm days which means....Flip Flops!!!! YAH!!!!!

On the agenda

2009-02-26T06:17:00.000-08:00

Today is gonna be a productive day. I shall see to it. I do not work out on Thursday's becasue of M.A.D.D. so therefore, Thursday's are usually my day to get those other things done that I don't get done on the other days of the week (wow! what a run-on sentence.....and I homeschool my children....SCARY).

Anyhoo, backing up a bit. I SO enjoyed hearing my dad preach last night. I just love him!

Today, I must go to the grocery store. And, I'm gonna try to get all the deals that I can get....coupons and all.

Chandler needs another pair of tennis shoes. He has been wearing his somewhat new ones to soccer practice and they are beginning to tear up. So, I need to get him some that he can play around in and not mess up his good ones. I have to go to the church bank for my husband and make the deposit. I do this every Thursday. He usually does the deposits on Wednesday night after church.

I have to return a pair of pants that I got Cha last week at Kohls. To say the least, they were huge on him. Here's my issue. The boy is getting so tall but he is rather thin in the waist. So, if I find them to fit his waist they are too short. If I get them long enough, they are huge in the waist. ***sigh*** issues. I hate issues.

Hmmmm, I know I'm forgetting something. Oh yeah, I need to go to the bank, our personal bank. I need to look some information up on the computer about our family vacation. My husband and my mom have been driving me nuts about it. hehe! We are going to Disney World this summer....YAH!!!!! M-I-C.....K-E-Y.....M-O-U-S-E!!!!!!

Now, off to having my morning devotion and trying to pry my son out of bed. Morgan is not here.....well imagine that.....Morgan not home.....that's unusual....NOT!!!

green beans

2009-02-25T06:39:00.000-08:00

I love green beans. It's the only bean that I really like. So, when making dinner, they are usually something I make. And, I just make green beans from a can. Well, a friend was telling me how much she loved frozen green beans. That they are so good. Just steam them and eat them. She said they are much better for you than can ones. This week, Kroger has them on 10 for 10. So I bought about 5 bags. Last night I opended a bag and cooked them right up. When it came time for us to make our plates, someone, I cant remember who said something about the green beans looking different (it was probably Morgan). She said they looked flouresant. haha!

Chandler was still at soccer practice so it was just Steve, me and Mo. We sat down, began to eat and then it began. You all know that Morgan is a character anyway. "Momma, they're crunchy". "They are suppose to be crunchy, Morgan, they have more nutrients in them." "Why are they so fluresant"? "I don't know". "They taste like rubber". haha

I asked Steve if he liked them and he said what he always says if he doesn't like something. "They're not my favorite". Steve is not a picky eater whatsoever. And, he's always careful not to hurt my feelings whatsoever.

Well, Morgan got on a roll..................."these things are waxy"....(laughing her head off the entire time). (I must admit, it was kinda funny). She said, "shhh, be queit, listen"...and she made us listen to the crunch"...hahaha So, of course, Steve chimed in with her. "They feel like they are cleaning my teeth". Mo continued...."I'm not gonna have to floss my teeth tonight". It was really, really funny.

Chandler comes home. He fixes his plate. Mo and Steve "warn" him about the green beans. I think they scard him cause he didn't even put any on his plate. As I was cleaning the kitchen, I convinced him to try one. He did and he said they were not that bad at all. Chandler is so much like Steve that I don't know if he really liked them or if he was being careful not to hurt my feelings. Anyway, the whole thing was humorus, truly. Steve did say, " you know we are picking" and I was sure to tell him it didn't bother me at all.

I, pesonally, thought they were O.K. I will eat them again, after all I have 4 more bags in the freezer. haha!

Changing books here...I'm super excited to hear my dad preach tonight at Antioch. Bro. Sutton asked him to preach for the BTI service. This is the first time that he would have preached at Antioch since the appointment. And, I don't think I've heard my dad preach since he left Antioch. So, I'm super duper excited.

Hope everyone has a great day!

Monday

2009-02-23T17:56:00.000-08:00

Chelsei and Lindsei stayed at the house last night. Their plan was to leave around noonish and head back to South Carolina. Morgan asked if they could just stay one more night. I thought the idea was good because I wasn't a fan of them traveling at night, when it got dark. The mom in me, I guess. So, they are leaving in the morning by 9am. Morgan and Lindsei have enjoyed having another day together.

Today has been a good day. I talked with my mom on the phone this morning. We have the best talks. Yes, we are mother and daughter but truly we are such good friends. We have such a special bond. We know each other oh so well. We can "look" at each other and know what the other is thinking. It's very unique, really, and I love it. I'm very, very thankful!!!

I went to the store to get the stuff to make chicken salad tonight for dinner. Not chicken salad, but a salad with chicken. I baked the chicken and had put vinagarette dressing on it. Mmmmm, good! I made chocolate chip cookies for everyone else. I can't have them, of course, because of the chocolate but, oh well. I ate an apple.

Now, Chels and I are watching Jon & Kate plus 8. Morgan and Lindsei are upstairs doing something. Chandler is upstairs doing something, and Steve is trying to find the planet Saturn.

Why is Steve trying to find the planet Saturn, you asked?! Well, tonight on the news they said that a green comet is flying backwards at 9:43pm. And, that it will be in location of the planet Saturn. So, ever since then, Steve has been on the internet looking for the location of Saturn (weird, I know...haha) but, for some reason, this has interested him. Wonder if he will find it?

That's about it

real quick

2009-02-22T15:07:00.000-08:00

Last night a group of us girls got together and had a "girls night out." It was really fun. We met at Subway for those $5 footlongs. You can't beat that. Especially, if you share with someone and you eat 6 inches and they eat 6 inches and you split the cost. $2.50 for a Sub is pretty nice, I would say. There were about 13 of us altogether. From Subway, we went to see the play, Pride & Prejudice. There is this church here in Smyrna that hosts these really good plays. It's something really fun to do that's good and decent. We all really enjoyed it.

This morning Bro. Sutton preached another great message. I simply love listening to him preach. He is such blessing to me. He's such an encourager.

This afternoon has been very relaxing. We came home, had some lunch then I just laid on the couch and kinda dozzed. Ah! It felt so good. I don't do that much, so Sunday afternoon's are usually perfect for that. I've gotta get off here and get ready to go back for tonight's service. I'm expecting God to meet with us there and deliver just what we all need!

Chelsei and Lindsei are coming to stay the night with us. I love them younguns. You should be proud, LaDonna.

See ya...don't want to be late for church.

It's been a good day!

2009-02-20T20:16:00.000-08:00

Friday....Ah....the weekend again. Today has been a nice day. I started it with a sad heart. Watching the video of Brad made me sad. But, as the day continued, the Lord helped me. I do miss him, Brad, dearly. But, I will continue to do for him what I have done everyday for the past almost 3 years now. PRAY! God is faithful. And although life brings sadness at times, I can and will trust Him.

I ran today, 3 miles. I went to Walmart. I made cheddar potato soup for dinner. I was talking to Les on the phone today. Actually, we talked several times. One of those times, she asked what we were doing tonight. I told her I was making soup and asked if they wanted to come over. I texted Rick, he said sure, so they came. I also invited my mom. She said yes too but then changed her mind. She wanted to stay home and relax. Along with our potato soup, I made a homemade peanut butter pie. I can make a mean peanut butter pie. Seriously, they are SO good. I bought some chocolate syrup for Steve to drizzle over the top. I can't have the chocolate, but he can and Rick loved it.

We just hung out. I love them. Seriously, we are family but very best friends as well. The kids were at Em's apt. hanging out with the youth.

Cha and Mo just got home and Morgan went immediatley to the fridge to get some pie. She said she has been dying to get home to have some. She loves to eat. You wouldn't know it by looking at her but she seriously can eat. Oh, and she has broken 100 pounds. When I took her to the Dr. this week for her sinus infection, the scale said 103. Woohoo, Mo!

I'm super excited about tomorrow. A group of us are going to a play. We are going to see Pride and Prejudice. I love the movie so I'm hoping the play is as good.

good nite all

Heavy, heavy heart

2009-02-20T06:08:00.000-08:00

The video that Erika posted on her facebook and blog. My heart breaks!

I'm glad you shared it Erika, but oh how it rips my heart into pieces.

God knows the ending from the beginning. He works ALL things for the good of those that love Him. I know this. I trust Him.

But, I wish with every fiber of my being that, well, you know!

Let's see

2009-02-19T06:42:00.001-08:00

I haven't really had much to post about lately. Well, I guess I just haven't wanted to. Maybe, I can pull something together here. Warning.....might be boring.....

Morgan has been sick for at least 2 weeks. It started with a cold, she got better, then it came back worse. Sunday at church Les told me I really needed to take her to the Dr. She probably had a sinus infection. So, Monday, we went. They gave her an antibotic.

We had planned on going to the revival in Portland Tuesday night. We got all ready, was in the car and Mo got really car sick. I wonder if it had to do with all that snotty junk in her head?! Anyway, we ended up having to come back home and not make the revival. She and I were bummed. I was looking forward to be there with the Portland folks and hearing my dad preach. My dad was the minister for the revival. Oh well, life happens.

Hmmmm, (told ya, kinda boring)...

Today, I'm taking Chandler shopping. He needs new shin guards and kleets for soccer this year. And, he really needs some new church pants. His are becoming high waters. Poor kid.

It's cold again. I knew these 70 degree days in February were not gonna last. They were nice but it's alittle soon for Spring. Soon though, and I can't wait.

O.K. when you sit here and have to TRY to think of something to say, it's time to go.

have a great day!

Randomness

2009-02-13T18:39:00.000-08:00

Today has been a very good day! It's amazing how when the sun is really shining, how it makes a difference in how you feel. I've had just the best day. I started it as I usually do, with the Lord, in devotion. I ran 3 miles today and it felt really good. There are those days when I struggle to get through it but today it went really fast beacuse it felt really good.

I stopped in at the Shoe Dept on my way home from running to check things out. I felt I needed a new pair of shoes. Well....."need" might not be the correct word here. Wanted is more like it. I've not shopped in quite a while. Trying to watch the pennies lately, but I felt the need, the need for "shoes". I have a shoe issue. I LOVE them. I found some rather cute ones but didn't purchase any. I wanted to check out Off Broadway. They have a huge selection and possibly better prices.

I came home, showered, ate a bowl of cereal and headed to the church, after picking up Morgan from tutorial. It's my weekend to clean and I needed Morgan's help to speed things up a bit. I dropped her back off at tutorial. She had something she needed to take care of there. Then, I headed to Murfreesboro. Off Broadway, shoe heaven! I did find some really cute New Balance everyday shoes. They had the same pair at the Shoe Dept. but they were cheaper at Off Broadway. So, I got them. There cute.

I went to Target. I needed some things for Children's Church Sunday. I'm really excited about the craft/snack idea. I'm teaching on Moses and the Ten Commandments. O.K. so you know how God gave Moses the commandments on Mt. Sinia.(sp?) Well, we are gonna make eatable mountains. I got sugar/waffle cones. We are gonna turn them upside down, with the pointed part facing upward. I got icing to cover the cones and M&M's and Skittles to put all over the icing to represent rocks and such going up the mountain. Then the kids can eat them. Cute, huh?

I decided I wanted to hang out with Bradley tonight. So, I went to Subway and got us some $5 footlongs, then I headed to his house. We hung out, ate, talked, and played around on the computer.

Tomorrow will be a nice day. I'm heading to another town (can't say where just yet) for a surprise birthday party. Can't say who just yet, it's a surprise. But, I'm looking forward to it.

good nite all you bloggers and you lurkers!

Fixin to go

2009-02-12T16:12:00.000-08:00

on a date with my sweetheart for Valentine's Day. I know, I know, it's still 2 days away but tomorrow night he has this work thingy and I'm NOT going on Saturday. Do you know how many people will be going out to eat on Saturday, the actual day. So, we are hitting it early. Off to Legends. OH SO YUMMY! And, to spend time with my honey. Just the two of us. I love it.

He called me today and I asked if we were still going. He said, "are the kids going?". I said, "NO, it's not a date when you take your kids." So, I whipped up some pancake batter for them. Morgan is gonna make them chocolate chip pancakes.

I'm sure I will be having some kind of chicken and Steve some kind of pasta. That's our usual. I love that man! We will be celebrating our 20 year anniversary on June 3. That sounds so weird. 20 years! It makes us sound so old. But, we don't feel old. What a blessing to be able to say....I've been married to the SAME man for 20 years. It's unheard of in the world today.

I wish I had more of Steve's qualitties. He's an amazing person. Really, amazing! He has, as the Bible refers...."an excellent spirit." He's a true Godly man! And, he's MINE!!!!!!!! I'm abundantly blessed!

Well, he's home. I'm going to eat!!!!!

MAN...that wind is fierce!

2009-02-11T09:39:00.000-08:00

The wind today will blow you away. Seriously, it's SO strong. I wonder if a tornado is gonna come this way?! This weather has been crazy. 70 degree temps in February. Too weird.

I had to take Cha for a sports physical this morning for soccer. The boy is 5 feet 10 inches and weights 145 pounds. Tall and thin, just like his daddy.

We drove seperate cars because I needed to go to Walmart from there. He headed back home until he went to work at 11:30. I got a few new things at the store this week. Lynn had been telling me that she has been getting salmon. So, I thought we would try it this week. Steve loves salmon anyway. You guys have any ideas on how I should make it? I'm not much for fried so if you have any other ideas, I'm up for it. I also got the stuff to make chicken encilladas(sp?). When I was sick last week, Wendy made dinner for us. This is what she sent. It was so good, so, I thought I would try it. I hope mine are good. You know when you make something, it never seems as good as when someone makes it for you. Oh and btw Wendy, the Nilla wafers are already gone. haha!

Man, that wind is so strong right now, it feels like it's gonna lift my house off the ground or at least blow out some windows. Shew!

Morgan is at Spanish class right now so I guess I need to get some things done around here. When she gets home, we need to do her Algebra.

OUCH!!!!

2009-02-10T10:20:00.000-08:00

I'll explain in a few:

You guys know that Morgan is my social butterfly. I haven't seen her since Sunday. Last night, Chandler said...."where's Morgan?". I told him and he said, "does she even live here?" haha!

Guess what? We got our tax return back today. WOOHOO......Yes!!!!!!

Last night Chandler asked me if I would help him rearrange his room. So, today we did it. After moving his bed around, we started cleaning up alittle. (here comes the explanation of my title). He had some old I-tunes card sitting on his dresser that he had already used. I took some scissors and was gonna cut them up before I threw them out. I sliced a gash out of the skin that is between your thumb and pointer finger. It KILLED me! Chandler started laughing at me becasue I immediatley dropped the card and started praying...."OH GOD"....."I think I need stitches." As he was laughing though, he was helping me. He even went and got the neosporin and helped bandage it up. It hurts...bad! That is such an awkward place for a cut. It will probably take forever to heal.

O.K. so I've gotta get off here. Chandler just asked if he could have the computer to do his Geometry. So, gotta run!

lots on the plate today

2009-02-09T05:53:00.000-08:00

Backing up a bit. I SO enjoyed Bro. Sutton's message yeterday morning. It was right on! I think it really applied to all ages. Even Morgan told him...."I had like 3 pages of notes". She often times takes notes during church. She has a whole notebook full.

Church was cancelled last night due to the fact that visitation was going on for Carol's mother. We had visited on Saturday. And, today I'm singing at the funeral. I thought only one song, but yesterday, Jimmy asked me to sing 2. Ya'll pray!

My house is rather scattered. It needs some work. I need to do laundry. I need to sit down with Chandler and do some Geometry. After the funereal, I plan to go run. Because of being sick last week, that only happened once. So, I hope to make up for it this week. Speaking of being sick, I'm much better. Not 100%, but better.

Soccer practice begins today for Chandler. I cannot belive it's that time of the year again. He loves it though.....truly loves it. He's really good too. I love watching him play. It's alot of fun.

So, I 'm gonna have my devotion and get started with my day.

Great Day

2009-02-07T17:05:00.000-08:00

District Convention was wonderful today. Bro. Frizzell did an outstanding job for his very first convention as district overseer. I just love them Frizzells. We go wwwwwaaaaayyyyy back. Our families have a great history. I'm so sorry though for Carol loosing her mother. Please keep them in your prayers. They are a precious, precious family. And, please say a prayer for me. Bro. Jimmy asked me today if I would sing at the funeral. I told him I would be honored. The prayer request is for my voice. You know what a cold can do to your voice. But, I'm trusting the Lord will give me the strength in it to be a blessing.

I'm tired tonight and it's only 7:09pm. By this time each night, I feel pretty wiped out. Colds...stinkin colds.

Bro. Smith preached an outstanding message at the convention. I think that's the most I've ever seen him move around while preaching. Usually, like at the assembly, he just stays behind the pulpit. Today, he was all up and down the isles. It was a blessing. I absolutley loved his message on unity!

We had all different kinds of soups today. We had a district fellowship dinner after service. There was potato soup, veggie soup and chili. I went for the veggie soup. I think it was the best I've ever had. So tasty.

The weather around these parts today was unbelievable. 70 degrees. Can you believe that in February. I love it and it's suppose to be like this for the next several days. But, I do believe it's deceptive. I think we will get slammed again with frigid temps. Crazy weather. No wonder people have colds.

hope everyone enjoys the rest of your weekend

Hopefully on the upside

2009-02-06T19:33:00.000-08:00

My cold is getting somewhat better, I think. Well, it's not any worse. I've had it all week. Now, when I cough I can feel it breaking up. Sorry to be so graphic but you get the picture. I think when the junk in your head starts popping when you cough, it means it's breaking up, right?

Anyway, Steve's side of the family came over for a visit tonight. It was very nice to have them here. We just ordered pizza and hung out and talked. My mother in law brought a carrot cake, which happens to be one of my favorite desserts. I had two slices. And, it had nuts in it. That's really my favorite. After they left, Steve drove Morgan over to Andrea's to stay the night. She will come with the her to District Convention tomorrow. Ah, District Convention....I'm suppose to be singing but I'm not sure if my croopy voice will hold out. We shall see.

We are having a district fellowship lunch after the convention is over. Don't ya just love fellowshippin? I do!

I think that's about all I got for tonight. My bed is calling me.....

Like a truck ran over me

2009-02-05T06:00:00.001-08:00

That's pretty much how I feel. This cold is about to get the best of me. I guess I shouldn't complain, I've been very blessed not to be sick in a long time.

Monday is when I started feeling it coming on. Tuesday I actually felt better. So, I thought, maybe it's not gonna be so bad. WRONG! Yesterday, AWFUL. I woke up with a pounding headache. I'm not kidding! It felt like my head was gonna explode off my neck. I could not miss Sis.White's funeral though. I just couldn't. I didn't make it to the grave side. By that time, I had to get home. Morgan stayed with mom & dad. She was feeling better yesterday with her cold. I got home, changed clothes and headed straight for the couch. And that's where I stayed until I did manage to get some dinner cooked. When Steve got home, he knew I had been sick all day, he said, "honey, you shouldn't have worried about cooking".....ah! what a nice fella!

I did manage to eat. But about 6:30pm, I was laying across my bed. Not even under the covers, just sprawled out across it. Ah, miserable! Around 7, I pulled the covers back on the bed and crawled underneath them. I got up a little later and got an apple and some peanut butter. What is that saying?....."feed a cold, starve a fever"......or something like that. One thing this cold hasn't done is wipe my appetite.

This morning, my head is not quite as bad as it was yesterday. Thank the Lord for that. But, I do feel purty ruff. Hopefully, this will pass soon. We have district convention this weekend and I do not want to miss. Maybe if I lay around today, well, as much as possible, that will help. And, drink plenty of O.J. Any more suggestions?

Prayers are greatly appreciated!

Oh... and I want to say........

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to two of my most favorite people in this world. Laura and LaDonna! I love you both very, very much!!!!!!!!

Stinkin Cold

2009-02-03T06:02:00.000-08:00

Last week, Steve had a really, really bad cold. Actually, he still has it, but better. It's almost impossible for someone else in the house to not get it either. Those little boogers (haha...get it?)....I'm talking about the cold it'self people...LOL! Anyway, it's almost impossible for someone else not to get it. Morgan and me win! We both have colds or I would rather say stinkin colds. HA! There is nothing pleasant about them. Sore throat, runny or stopped up nose, itchy nose, sneezing.....well, you get the picture.

I woke up this morning early with Dakota (Morgan's dog) in my room. I woke up, jumped up becasue I felt like she needed to go potty. I grabbed the dog and started through the house and realized Morgan was in the kitchen making coffee at 6 something. As soon as she saw me she said, in a rather disgusted voice...."I CANNOT SLEEP......THIS COLD IS DRIVING ME NUTS". So, I went back to bed for about another hour while she stayed up.

Despite the fact that I have this oh so fun cold, I have got to go to the grocery store today. My kitchen is in need of food. As Chandler would say....."We have NOTHING in this house." The kids and I met Steve at his office yesterday and headed straight to the funeral home for Sis. White. By the time we got home it was almost 9 and my family was starving. O.K. remember I said I didn't have much in the kitchen. But, I had cooked some deer meat a couple of days ago that was in the fridge. So, I got it out, warmed it up and threw a can of Manwich (sloppy joe) in with it. I had some fries in the freezer that I stuck in the oven. It was really funny. Chandler saw me open the bag of fries and there was only just enough for maybe one person, possibly two. He said, "is that it?" Well, a few minutes later, Morgan asked if the fries were ready and Chandler said...."you mean fry?" It was too funny! Maybe you had to be there. So, off to Kroger I must go today.

Check it out

2009-02-02T08:50:00.001-08:00

vivian-campbell.blogspot.com

Super great weekend

2009-02-01T13:55:00.000-08:00

Friday!
Chelsei and I had a lunch date at Panera. It's "our" place. She treated me for lunch. I told her I was the adult and she was the child, it's wasn't right for her to pay. But, she insisted.....so, thanks again, Chels.

We made several other stops after that. The craft store, Walmart and I wanted to rent the movie "Fireproof". Which, by the way, is awesome, you all should watch it. It's a good clean movie. It's a christian movie. It's worth the watching.

When we made it back to the house, Chelsei and Morgan helped me work on the craft that I was doing at Super Bowl Saturday with the children.

Ah! that Chelsei..........I "secretly" have planned for her and Chandler to get married. It's a running joke with us. LaDonna said...."wouldn't they have some beautiful curly headed babies". Ha! After she got the Holy Ghost last Saturday night, on the way home from church, Steve said...."O.K. now I KNOW I want them to get married. HaHa! We give them a hard time about it. They are such best buds and have been there whole life. I have a picture of them together at Chandler's first birthday party. Seriously, I want the Lord's perfect will for both of them....I just hope His Will is for them to get married!!!! Even my Nanny will pick at Cha and say...."Chandler, that Chelsei Henderson is such a doll". It's funny!

Saturday!
Steve and I went first thing to get the church cleaned. Then at 2...Super Bowl Saturday. What a Super day it was. SO much fun!
The schedule was:
2:00 pm - tail gate party.....food and games
3:30 - the youth had 4 different 15 minute classes. The coaches (teachers) were: 1) offensive coordinater 2) defensive coordinater 3) special teams coordinator 4) quarterback coordinator

During this time was when I taught the children. I compared a football uniform to the Armour of God. I feel like it went well. The children really got involved and partcipated. Thank the Lord!

Next...time for the commercials. You know how the commercials are a huge deal in the Super Bowl. Well, each local church youth group had made up a commerical. They had some good ones. Then at 5:30 was the evangalist service. Wonderful again. I LOVE seeing our young people seeking God. Love it!

By the time it was over, this old woman was tired and ready for her P.J.'s. Of course, my kids went out with the youth to eat. Oh! how I remember those days! You know, the absolutley do not stop days. The ones where you could sleep for only a couple of hours just to be able to hang out longer with your church friends. I'm just old now! ha! I need my sleep. I'm so glad my children love it though. I want them to be with their church friends.

Sunday - Bro. Sutton had to preach a funeral today. So, Bro. Hall brought the morning message. AH! I SO enjoyed it. He has such a way with words. Interesting! Funny! Yet, heart moving! Very blessed, I was. After service, we went to eat Mexican food with LaDonna, Chelsei, Jacob, mom & dad. It was such a nice visit. LaDonna and I have been good friends since we were younger than Chelsei and Chandler. Many, many, many years! I love her dearly! Who knows, if Cha and Chels do get married, we might be family for real....hahahahahaha! just kidding!

So now, I've made a huge crock pot full of cheddar/potato soup to take to Tim and Ondra before church tonight. And then, back to church. Chelsei is doing the devotion. I'm looking forward to that. She always blesses me with her devotions.

I have tons of pictures from Super Bowl Saturday that I'm gonna put on my facebook. So, check um out.

That's been my weekend up to this point.

2009-01-31T08:56:00.001-08:00

I'm sure most of you have already heard, but Sis. Jewel White went to be with the Lord this morning.

Please keep the family in your prayers.

Can you imagine being with Jesus and the reunion between her and Bro. White.....Shew!

I'm SSSSSSSSSSSOOOOOOOO tired

2009-01-29T20:04:00.000-08:00

But, it's been a very productive day. I got up bright and early this morning because Chandler had to be at work at 9. No, I didn't have to take him....he has a car now. But, we had to be at the County Clerk's office before he went to work to get his car tag registered to his new car. We were there about 8:30. From there Cha went to work and I went to the church bank and then to our personal bank. I came home and did some housework. I also got the kids attendance reports filled out and sent in which was due Jan. 10.

I met my sister in law, Debbie, at her new house. She and my brother bought a new house and it's in the process of being built. She wanted me to see her new cabnits. They are beautiful.
The house is gorgeous.

Let's see.....oh yeah.....

I came back home and worked on my lesson for Saturday. I'm teaching the gleaners at Super Bowl Saturday, a youth function we are having. I have to get some supplies for that but I'm gonna do that tomorrow after Chelsei and I go to Panera for lunch....yes, Chels, your going with me..hehe!

I went and got some things to make Tim and Ondra a goody basket to take to the hospital. It's always good to have junk food when your sitting at the hospital, right? Those vending machines can get expensive.

I stopped by and visited with Bradley for a while.

Chandler and I did a lesson of Geometry. Morgan was at Katie's. I left the house about 4:00 to head downtown to Steve's office. He had taken my car this morning to get the oil changed. So, I took Chandler's car and headed out. I got Steve, we went to the oil change place, left Chandler's car there, got in my car and headed to Gallatin. We visited with Tim, Ondra and Gracee for a while. We didn't get to see Sis. White. She's in ICU and can only have visitors at certain times. We were not there during those times.

When we left the hospital, Steve and I were both starving. So, we decided to stop at Subway. I love Subway. I think I could eat it everyday. Chandler wanted us to pick something up for him at Game Stop, so we did. We went back to the oil change place and got Chandler's car.

Steve headed home and I headed to Lynn's to get Morgan. She texted me and said she wanted to do her math when we got home. WHAT?! Your kidding me. It's 9pm. But, that's Morgan, she would rather do it at 9pm and not have to do any tomorrow. So, we did.

It's now 10:38pm and I'm pooped. Can you tell why? It's been a busy day but very productive.
I'm sure there are other things I'm forgetting but my brain can't think right now....I'm going to bed!

only a week

2009-01-28T16:47:00.000-08:00

That's how long Cha went without a car. Only a week. I think we sold his Mazda last Wednesday and today we got him a Camry. He really likes it so that makes me happy. I wanted him to like it. He hasn't gripped or complained one time about not having a car. He's such a good kid. Thank the Lord.

So, since last Wednesday, we've been looking on Craigslist. We've been looking and Rick has been non-stop looking. We looked specifically at Toyotas and Hondas. Rick called on some and found this particular one yesterday. I had actually seen the very same one myself. The guy was ready to sell it. He didn't need it anymore so he came down $500 over the phone. Yes! Steve and Rick went today at lunch to check it out. After looking at it and driving it, Rick convinced the sellar to come down another $100. SOLD! We got a super good deal. Rick said it would sell at the auction for $700 more than we paid for it.

I'm happy, Steve is happy and Chandler is happy. Life is grand. Oh, and Morgan loves it. She said she likes it even better than the Mazda. So, all is well. I pray it's a very good car for him. I need to put the prayer cloth back in the glove box. I had one annointed at church when he got his first car and so now I want it to go in this one.

Needed

2009-01-28T09:10:00.001-08:00

I am teaching a class to the gleaners this Saturday at the Super Bowl Saturday youth function. I am in need of a football helmet. I just need it for a visual. I would not be keeping it so you would get it back. If anyone has one that I can borrow, I would greatly appreciate it.

Please let me know

thanks!

Should I or not?

2009-01-28T07:18:00.000-08:00

It's snowing and iceing. I love it! But, Chandler is suppose to be at work at 11:30. He doesn't have a car yet so therefore it's up to me to get him there. I love the snow and ice BUT I do not drive in it! Yep, chicken....that's me. What should I do? Should I brave it and go or just have him call in? I hate for him to have to do that. He gets off at 4. It will probably be worse by then because it's suppose to be below freezing all day.

Do I chance it or not? You guys better hurry up with the comments, it's 9:30 now.

It's early

2009-01-27T05:34:00.000-08:00

I don't think I mentioned but we sold Chandler's car. Steve just wasn't too sure about keeping it with the trouble it has given us. He wanted to know that Cha was in something, hopefully, more reliable. So, I'm up early this morning because Chandler has to be at work at 8 and I'm taking him. Steve wants him to have a Toyota or a Honda. He just likes them. He thinks they are good realiable cars. Just personal opinion but that's what he's looking to get him. Actually, we found a couple of Toyota's on Craigslist last night. We shall see. Rick is also looking for us. I hope we can find something soon. I have gotten spoiled to him having a car and me not having to haul kids everywhere. ha!

It definately looks like a dreary, winter day today. Makes me wanna drink coffee and.....oh wait.....I always wanna drink coffee, no matter what the weather does. hehe!

I've mentioned about not eating out so much. 3 weeks in a row, we ate at home, even weekends. We can definately tell a difference in our checkbook. You wouldn't really think that not eating out would make that big of a difference, but it really does. We decided to go to IHop with everyone from church on Friday night of the revival. That one time out was almost $50 for the four of us. THAT is why we have not been eating out. Shew! That's crazy. It was nice being with everyone though. It makes it even better when you don't go out for a while and then you do. That amount reminded me of why we have cut back.

later

WHAT A REVIVAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-01-26T07:17:00.001-08:00

The first two nights were good. Bro Hawkins.......AH! Bro. Hawkins, what an awesome man. I knew of him from seeing him at the assembly but had never personally met him (I don't think). What a man of God. He, as we might say....."has got the goods". Now, if you go to Antioch, you know that's it's very easy for me to get excited about the Lord, right? I beleive we should get excited about the Lord. Example time...........many can get excited over their favorite sports team winning a silly ole game. They will jump and hoop and holler when their team wins but when it comes to hoopin and hollerin over the Lord, they sit like a bump on a log. Hmmmmm, doesn't make sense to me...................anyway

Bro. Hawkins tickles me to death. He is not at all intimidated about getting loud for the Lord and I love it. A man after my own heart...hehe!! He preached some great messages. But, even though the first two night were great.........we needed something more. We needed a breakthrough..................BAD!

Saturday night......THE night..................there is no way to describe to you in a post how the Holy Ghost moved through that place. It was truly a Holy Ghost revival! His power was SO strong. It was exacatly what we needed. And, God did not disappoint. It takes some travailing on our part. It takes determination on our part but Oh how it's worth it. From that night on, the entire rest of the revival was like this. Many were in the alter seeking God for their needs. We didn't get out of service Saturday night until 11:00pm. On Sunday morning, we didn't get out until 2:30 and Sunday night we had one seeking the Holy Ghost until late.

To my knowledge we had 3 saved, 4 sanctified and 1 received the Holy Ghost. We also had deliverances. And I know I would be safe in saying.......everyone received a re-newing in their spirit. IT WAS AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm so thankful God let me be a part of this revival. I'm so thankful my kids experienced this revival. I want them to know the true power of God. It's real. It's real. It's real. It changes lives.

If we want more..............God's got it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

For Autumn

2009-01-23T22:41:00.000-08:00

The revival has been great! And, the best part....it's not over yet. Bro. Hawkins has been preaching some wonderful messages. The Spirit of the Lord has been among us. The first night he preached on God's Grace. Tonight his message was....Is there Hope for someone like me?

The Lord has been blessing but I know He wants to do more. We have 3 more scheduled revival services and I'm expecting great things. I just pray that everyone of us yield to His Will!!!!

I'm tired. I'ts 12:49 AM. Chandler just ask what I was doing still up and I have no idea. I guess it's the pancakes. A whole slew of us went to IHop tonight after service. We didn't even get there until 10pm. But, it was fun. I love the fellowship with God's people. There's nothing like it. There were about 10 to 15 young peoople there. I'm proud of our young people but I want to encourage each of you to get what you need from God in this revival. Don't worry about anything or anyone else. You...yes YOU might be the very one that leads the way. So, don't sit back on God. Please respond to His prompting!

Good nite!

SO much excitement!!!!!!!

2009-01-22T15:04:00.000-08:00

There is SO much excitement and anticipation for this revival. It starts tonight and runs through Sunday night. I can't wait to see what all God does. He is ready and I hope we are. Much praying and fasting have gone into preparing for this. God will never dissapoint us BUT, WE have to get from point A to point B....right Amy? You had to be in the youth service last night to understand that last comment. God is already there, waiting on us. It's up to us!!!

I'm expecting GREAT things. I want the Lord to do a work in all of us, but I especially want to see our young people in the alters, seeking God. I'm just so excited!!!

It's gonna be great.....simply great!!!

Yall come if you can!

MAN!

2009-01-22T07:48:00.000-08:00

After all that......trying to find the Hertz rental car place......I left our garage door opener in that stinkin car! So, today, I have to go to Murfreesboro to get it. Thankfully, they have it.

Only me........

An adventure with Chandler

2009-01-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a normal day except for the wild goose chase that Chandler and I went on.

Let me explain. The place that was fixing the hood of my car called yesterday. This was a big surprise because we were not expecting them to call for a couple of days. We had taken my car just the day before. They had fixed it in 24 hours. That could mean one of two things. They are really good, know there stuff and my car looks perfect or they don't have a clue what they are doing, they rushed through the work and my car looks like junk. Thankfully, after I saw the car, it was the first of the two. It looks great.

Anyway, Steve gave me directions to where my car was and where I needed to go to turn in the rental car. Chandler went with me becasue I needed him to drive my car and follow me to the Hertz rental place. We find the Auto Art shop with no problem. We get my car, like I said, it looks great. I'm very pleased. Chandler is driving my car. He can't drive the rental due to insurance purposes. So, he follows me and off we go to Hertz rental.

Here's where are adventure begins...........

I head toward the "area" where Steve told me Hertz was. The closer I get, I realize, I'm lost. I turn into "a" parking lot because there is a sign that says...."Enterprise" car rental. I roll down my window and ask Chandler...."Is Hertz and Enterprise the same place?" I don't think he really knows. So, I continue down the road to find nothing. I turn back around and head back toward the Enterprise place, convincing myself these two places must be the same place since there is no sign that says, Hertz. Everytime I turn around, Chandler just looks at me as if to say exactly what Steve would stay to me....."WHAT are you doing" ha!

Anyway, I pull into the Enterprise place, go in, hand the guy the rental keys and say, " I need to turn in a rental car". He takes the keys, looks at them and says, "I've never seen one like this". He trys to pull us up in the computer and has no luck. He asks when we got the car and I told him just yesterday. Hmmmm, he can't seem to find us in the system.

He looks at the keys again and says...."oh, this is Hertz, we are Enterprise, your at the wrong place". Oh good grief! I can't help but get tickeled at myself. Another guy in there says, "Hertz is down the road." So, I go back out, tickeled at myself and tell Chandler...."we are at the wrong place" hahaha! He looks at me again with a look of "only you, mom". lol

So, we head, AGAIN, toward the place the guy told us. I get closer and see this tiny little sign that says, "Hertz". I go toward the sign, pass the sign and see NOTHING! O.K. this is getting ridiculous! I roll my window down and ask a man walking through the parking lot..."Do you know where the Hertz place is?" He points to a building and says, "right in there".

I park the car, go in, and FINALLY I'm here. The guy says he needs to check the mileage. I wait. He comes back and says I was suppose to fill the car back up with gas. Your kidding me! I should have known that, but I didn't. He said he could just charge me for the gas. So, that's exactly what I did. I WAS NOT going back now after all that. hahaha!

What an adventure!

Productive Day

2009-01-19T18:30:00.000-08:00

I slept in this morning until 9, and it felt so good. I must have slept really hard becasue my eyes were all swollen and puffy looking. It looked like I had slept hard. Anyway, I wasn't up long until I went to clean. Steve actually took me (remember, he was off work today). He dropped me off and went to turn my car in to get the hood fixed and pick up the rental car.

He had to make a trip to Old Hickory to deliver something go Andy. He came back to get me and we headed downtown to pick out his new glasses. He gets his eye stuff done down there because it's really close to his work which makes it convenient. Anyway, we got some really....as Autumn would say...."hot" glasses. And, Autumn, they are that square look that you mentioned. I must say, he does look really "hot" in them.....lol!

By the time we got back to the house, it was almost time for Chandler, me and Morgan to go get our hair cut. I got a super short cut this time. I really like it. It's different, but I like it.

Tonight dinner consisted of left over chili from yesterday and grilled cheese sandwhiches.

A very cool thing happened tonight. I was praying about something in particular for someone very special to me. I felt like letting the person know that I had been praying, so I texted them and just simply said...."Just got out of my closet". I very quickly got a text back from this person. They had had a very hard day but about 30 minutes ago, felt better. That was exactly when I was in my closet praying!!!!! I love it! I'm reminded of the scripture that says He will answer before we even ask. God is faithful! If we will be faithful to seek Him for the answers......HE IS FAITHFUL!!!!!!!

So, it 's been a good day! A very good day!

Super Excited!

2009-01-18T20:38:00.000-08:00

I'm tired! But I'm oh so excited for the upcoming revival. It begins this Thursday and goes through Sunday night. I KNOW God is gonna bless. I just know it.

We had a prayer service tonight in preperations for the revival. Bro. Sutton had 5 different speakers. Each spoke on a different topic and after each one spoke we prayed for that. Example...Bro Hall spoke on lost souls, then we prayed for lost souls. Next, Galen spoke on broken homes and broken marriages, then we prayed. After Galen...Andy spoke on discouragement, then we prayed. Steve spoke on healing and we prayed for healing. And lastely, Sis. Maudie spoke on miracles and we prayed for miracles. We ended the service praying for God to completely have His way in the revival. The prayer turned into an all out "praise" time for what we KNOW God is gonna do.

Bro. Sutton encouraged us to continue this week seeking God in behalf of the revival. I really beleive God is gonna do some things. I can't wait!!!!!

Tomorrow is a holiday and my husband has the day off. I'm glad for him. We have things we need to take care of. Back several months ago, the kids and I were driving down the interstate and there was a truck in front of us. All of a sudden out from under the truck came this HUGE rock flying straight toward us. We didn't have time to do anything and the rock slammed onto the hood of my car leaving a really nice gash. We've turned it into the insurance company and tomorrow we are taking it to be fixed. It was a blessing that it didn't hit the windshield. It would have probably shattered the thing and could have really hurt us.

We are also going to get Steve some new glasses. He has had the same ones for years and his perscription has changed. He wants me to be with him when picking them out so I can say...."uh...nope....not them or "yep, those look nice".

We are gonna have 3 extra bodies at our house tonight. Andrea and Chelsei are staying over. And Chandler just asked if Josh could stay the night. Oh why not. I should start charging these kids for using my house as a hotel. I could really rack up. haha! Just kidding, I'm thankful that they all feel so comfortable to be here.

I started this post saying...."I'm tired" and I still am....so

good nite!

It's been a nice day

2009-01-17T15:53:00.001-08:00

Nothing really over the top, just nice.

I ran 4 and 1/2 miles today. My plan was for only 4, so ......go me! Lynn and I went to Hendersonville to Sloan's first basketball game. It was nice. He did well.

Steve and I went and got a few things from Kroger. I needed stuff to make chili for tomorrow. The family is going over to momma's after church. Tomorrow is Bob's (my grandfather) birthday. I'm making chili. Momma is making white chicken chili and Les is making potato soup. From Kroger, we went to Home Depot. Steve needed to replace something in the tank of the toliet in Chandler's bathroom. We also needed a new head to the faucet in our kitchen, and I needed light bulbs.

Tonight I made pancakes for dinner. Yummy....I love pancakes!

I'm already tired and it's only 7:18...whats up with that?

this is just a rambling post

2009-01-16T19:54:00.000-08:00

My dog woke me up this morning around 7ish to go potty. After I let her back in I laid back down and she woke me up at 8ish. I'm not sure why this time, I think she was hungry. I got my coffee and had my devotion. I'm doing the reading through the Bible in a year. I love The Word of God. Kim preached an awesome message Wednesday night on the power of The Word. It really blessed me.

I did some cleaning around the house. It seems like every single post I mention that I'm doing house cleaning. I guess because I do it alot. Right Autumn? haha

Went to the Y and did 35 minutes on the elliptical machine, then did some weights. Tomorrow Lynn and I are running 4 miles. Then our plan, our half marathon plan, is to add a half mile every Saturday until we get up to about 10 1/2 miles. When we did the 1/2 marathon year before last, our last long run before the marathon was 10 miles. In case you don't know, a half marathon is 13.1 miles. We shall see....

After leaving the Y, I had to go to Lynn's to get Morgan. She had stayed 2 night with Katie. Well, she came home, got a bath and I took her to Emily's for movie night. From there, she is going to Brennan's house until Sunday. My social butterfly, I tell ya.

Tonight, I cleaned the church. Amy and I share this responsibility. We alternate weekends. Steve met me there from work. He usually helps me. Morgan has helped a few times. It's much easier to have someone with me. It, of course, takes half the time.

We came home and I made us a good salad. Megan, you commented on one of my posts about a salad with pecans, Parmesan cheese with the sauteed mushrooms and tomato's. I'm hooked on it. I've made it several times including tonight. Thanks! yummy stuff!

Now, I'm sitting enjoying my nice, toasty fireplace while Steve watches some "guy" movie.

I'll end now, I guess....but I'll ask you to say a prayer about something unspoken. God knows all about it and I'm trusting Him!!!

good nite, friends

3 degrees tonight

2009-01-15T15:40:00.000-08:00

Man, now that 's what I call C-O-L-D.....bitter Cold! Except for you Autumn, that would probably be a warm front coming through, huh? I don't think I could survive in -30 something degree weather.

Well, no school tomorrow. WooHoo! Rutherford County schools have closed and when they do, the kids tutorial closes as well. So, we've decided to take the day off! Oh why not....

Morgan is definately feeling back to herself. How do I know? Well, this is the second night in a row that's she's not home. When she was sick, she was home for 5 straight days. That's a record for her. Now that she's not sick, I probably will see her long enough to get clean clothes, a kiss and hug and out the door she goes again. When that girl starts driving.....we will never see her.

Chandler went and worked out this afternoon with Jordan and Josh. Then they are going to play basketball. If you remember a couple of posts again, I talked about Jordan living at our house on weekends. Well, Cha called a while ago and said...."momma, connect the dots with me". I said, "what?" He said...."connect the dots with me?" I said...."O.K. what are you talking about?" He said...."I don't have school tomorrow...Jordan doesn't have school tomorrow....connect the dots".

Ah! I get it.....Jordan wants to come to his weekend home, right? So, he will be sleeping over tonight. And, knowing these boys, it won't be the last night.

I need to go check on my dinner.
Italian baked chicken
green beans
roasted garlic italiano rice

COFFEE

2009-01-15T07:40:00.000-08:00

What is wrong with me????

I can't believe that I forgot to put on my "things I love" list.....

COFFEE........ I LOVE COFFEE!

For the sake of something to post

2009-01-14T12:15:00.000-08:00

Things I love... (in no particular order)

peace of mind
the Lord
The church of God
my family
knowing the truth
laughing
cleaning
running
my house
shopping
decorating and re-decorating my house
the smell and feel of clean sheets
chit-chatting with my mom
talking with my dad when I need counsel
the presence of my husband
knowing God is in control of it all
that all 4 of my grandparents are still living
singing
taking a hot bath
going on vacation with my family
home schooling
trusting my children
that Bradley is still alive
prayer

Things I do not like....(in no particular order)

Sin
filth (things that are not clean...example....a house)
lieing
back biting
gossip
dis-organization
chaos
the monthly "girl" thing
annoying habits that I have
being tickeled
being cold
drama
having a headache
that Bradley is not completely healed yet
being put on the spot
Dakota pooping in the house (although it has been a while)
dogs that shed (again...Dakota)
when my children are mis-treated
when my children are hurting and I can't fix it
zits
nasty teeth and gums

there is probably more things on both lists...but I gotta go

hey, you guys make your own lists.....it's kinda fun! I wanna read yours.

Up early

2009-01-13T05:47:00.000-08:00

So, I woke up early this morning. Even before Steve left for work which is about 6 something. I think I climbed out of bed right at 7. The house is quiet, except for the T.V. playing. I'm "sorta" listening to the Today Show.

They just said something about this baby having a tumor in his brain. When they looked further into the tumor there was a completely developed FOOT. Isn't that crazy?!?! Weird! How in the world could that happen?! Strange.....very strange!

For a little while now, I have been waking up in the mornings with my lower back killing me. I don't mean just a little pain, I mean killing me. I'm not really sure what the cause is. I'm guessing it's a combo of age and running. And, maybe sleeping weird. I'm getting ready to increase my running mileage in preperation for the 1/2 marathon so I probably should go visit the chiropractor. I haven't been in probably over a year. There was a hiccup with our insurance and I got a pretty sizey bill from them. So, I stopped going. Now that Steve has the new job with new insurance I need to see how much is covered. Going to the chiropractor sure does help. It probably will really help with my long distance running. I'd like to go about once a week, depending on the insurance. Need to check into that.

Hope everyone has a good day....I plan too!

Is today Sunday?

2009-01-11T15:15:00.000-08:00

It has not seemed like Sunday at all today. Every Sunday (Lord willing), I am at church....morning and evening, but not today. The plan was for me to stay at home with Morgan this morning because Steve had to teach Sunday School. And then tonight, I would go to church and he would stay home with her. That way, we could both at least get to go once. Well, we rememberd this morning that Bro. Sutton called a conference for tonight. And, with Steve being the clerk and treasurer, he had to be there. So I got the bad end of the deal.

I've literally been in my P.J.'s all day. I took a bath about 4:30 and changed from one pair to another. I had a REALLY good prayer while in that bath. I needed something from the Lord, talked to Him about it and believe He has already fixed it for me!!! Thank you, Jesus!

Morgan....ah yes....Mo....she has been on the couch again ALL day. Well, half the day. She didn't get out of bed until noon. Her little body (and if you know Morgan, when I say little body, I mean it literally) has needed to catch up. She is already teeny tiny but, she's lost weight from all the barfing and now she looks extra teeny tiny. She said she felt better yesterday than today.
Please pray for her strength.

So far, the rest of us haven't gotten this junk. Last night, I felt a little queezy but I texted some to pray for me and it passed. Shew! Thank you again, Jesus!

I have sprayed Lysol in this house like it's going out of style. **learned that from my Nanny**ha! She believes Lysol is the "divine cleanser" of all germs. Haha!

Hope everyone is having great services (to which I'm not apart of....grrr)!!!

love to all

Just stuff.....

2009-01-10T15:39:00.001-08:00

Morgan is feeling better today. She slept through the night and woke up hungry so that's a good sign. She also took a bath but now she's back on the couch. She's VERY tired feeling. I'm sure it's gonna take several days to get her strength back as sick as she was. Poor thing! It was pitiful. She has a headache tonight.

It's been such a rainy day. I wish it were snow instead. Oh well....can't always get what you want.

Steve and Lynn and I went and ran today. I did 4 miles. I think Steve did about 4 1/2. I love to run, most of the time. There are those days I have to push myself. But, there are those days we have to push oursleves to do alot of things, huh?

After running, I came home, got a shower and headed to Kroger. By the end of the last aisle, I don't think I could fit another thing in the cart. Food overload. So, we are set for the week. Trying to do good about not eating out. This is our second weekend in a row that we have eaten every meal at home. Really saves on money.....really!

And now, we are watching the Titans play. The score at this point is 7 to 7. I really hope we win. It would be way cool for your home town team to go all the way to the Super Bowl. Go Titans!!!

When I say "we" are watching the Titans, I mean the 4 of us and Jordan. The thing is, Jordan is NOT for the Titans. Can you believe that? I told him to get out of my house. Ha (I was kidding, of course). He has unoffically made our home his home. He stays here alot. He and Chandler are buds. I would rather the boys be here at the house than out some where else, ya know? They are good kids.

I made myself a really good salad tonight. It's was kinda like one that you can get at O'Charley's. It had lettuce, red onion, tomatos, croutons, mandarine oranges, and pecans. The dressing was some kind of balsamic vinegarette. Actually it wasn't dressing, it was one of those spritzers. It was good. I think the pecans made it.

So, one more quarter to go in the game.....come on Titans!

3:45 AM

2009-01-09T05:51:00.000-08:00

***warning - this may gross you out.....read at your own risk*****

Morgan is VERY sick. She slept over at Katie's last night, well, until 4:00 this morning. Chandler woke me up at about 3:45 saying that Morgan had texted him and wanted me to call her, she was very sick. She didn't want to call the home phone. You know when you get a call in the middle of the night, it can scare you when you are in a deep sleep.

So, I called her and our conversation went as follows:

Morgan - "Momma, I'm SO sick at my stomach. I can't hardley move. It made me sick to get up and get my phone to call"

Me - "Honey, what's the matter?"

Mo - "I don't know, but it's bad. I think I'm gonna puke.....I need you".

Me - "Can you get to the bathroom?"

Mo - "No, I'm telling you, I can't move"

Me - "Lay on your side" (I don't know why or when, but I think I've heard it's better to lay on your side than your back.....)

Me - "Do you want to wake Lynn up?"

Mo - "Momma, I don't want to puke"

Me - "You might feel better, if you do. You need to get some sprite to drink"

(She wakes Katie up to go get her a sprite.)

Me - "Morgan, you need to get the trash can, in case you throw up".

Mo - "Oh momma, it's bad....I think I'm gonna puke"

Me - "Get the trash can, Morgan, get the trash can"

(Katie attempts to grab the trash can)

Mo - "Momma....oh no.....I'm gonna......Bwahhknflweina;theeowp!!!!

Me - " Are you puking in the trash can?"

Mo - (in a very shallow voice) - "No, the floor".......SPLAT!!!!!!!!

Me - "IM ON MY WAY"

I get to Lynn's a little after 4:00am. Morgan is sitting on the couch with a big bowl on the floor in front of her. We get her things and make it home with no issues. We both go to my room and try to get back to sleep. By this time it's about 4:45. One hour later, just when I drift back to sleep, she wakes me up, and puked again. Poor thing! We take care of business. Get back to bed. At 7:00, she taps me on the leg. "Momma, here it comes again", sure enough, she puked.

It's now 8:05 and she's laying on the couch with her puke bucket near by. She is pale as a ghost.

Please say a prayer for her and also that none of the rest of us get this junk.

***if you read this...I warned you to read at your own risk*** hehe!

NOTE - She just puked AGAIN!!!! Good grief!!!

Today

2009-01-08T10:26:00.000-08:00

Algebra I with Morgan
Geometry with Chandler
Some housework
Take Morgan to ortho....Dakota(her dog) chewed her retainer....UGH!!!!
Walmart
Meeting for HSM
Bank
Cook Chicken n Rice for dinner

Other stuff here and there and in between

What????.....I'm really 35!!!

2009-01-06T19:21:00.000-08:00

So, I took this "real age" test tonight online. I saw it on T.V. today and thought I would give it a try. You fill out this long questionaire based upon your lifestyle and it's suppose to calculate your "real age". This lady on T.V. today was 44 but her "real age" was 60 because of her lifestyle choices.

So, I thought......Oh...why not.....

After answering all the questions, turns out, my real age is 35......woohoo for me. That's 5 years younger than I am. If you want to try it out, go to www.realage.com. it's kinda fun. Although, I don't think it would have been too fun if it had told me I was really 60. haha!

Other than the normal things, not too much going on. Yesterday was a SUPER GREAT day. We got amazing news. Finding out that Sis. Annette is going to be a mommy and Keith receiving the Holy Ghost. It was just awesome!!! God is good ALL the time. He never ceases to amaze me. Just when you need it, He delivers. I'm expecting more great news and I know I will not be dissappointed.

I was telling Morgan today how out of nowhere, we get the news about Sis. Annette's miracle. Yes, Miracle! I told her I wanted the same thing to happen for Bradley. Out of nowhere, we get a call and he's been completely healed. If God did it for the Suttons, I KNOW He can do it for our family too. When we least expect it, when it seems like...."maybe not".....BAM (in best Morgan voice).....we get a call and it's Brad himself......SHEW! It can happen, I tell you, it can!

I'm encouraged.....VERY encouraged....God does still preform miralces... He does!!!!!!!

Back to the grind

2009-01-05T06:10:00.000-08:00

After a 3 week break, today is the day to try to get back to a normal routine. It's never easy. We start back with school today.

Morgan was really bummed about something last night. She had this ONE thing she was fussing about. I had to remind her of all the other good things that she was forgetting about beacuse she was focusing on that one thing that was bugging the daylights out of her.

I said that to say. I could fuss about school starting back today. I could complain that I wish we had another week, and how bad I really didn't want to have to do it. But, I'm gonna remind myself just like I reminded Morgan last night. I'm SO thankful that we home school. I'm so thankful that my kids are not starting back to public schools today. (I'm not at all downing those that go to public school, but for us, we choose home school).

So, rather than complaining about "getting back to the grind", I'm gonna thank the Lord that my kids are at home, in a safe, good influenced enviornment. Thank you, Jesus.

My dad has always been one to find the good in everything, and I do mean everything. He can find good when you think there is NO way good is there to be found. I pray to have this quality.
I think it pleases the Lord. I'm not talking about putting your head in the sand and ignoring bad things around you. But, even in the bad, you can find some good. Right?

I'm leaving here shortly to go clean my Monday morning house. That's another thing I'm thankful for. I thank the Lord for giving me this opportunity to bring in some extra cash. It's been helpful.

So, let me encourage you in whatever your "grind" may be. The Bible says to give thanks in everything for this is the will of the Lord. I want to please the Lord in everything, how bout you?!

Prayer

2009-01-03T07:32:00.000-08:00

I don't know if you have heard or not but John Travolta and Kelly Preston's 16 year old son Jett, died suddenly yesterday. He had a seizeur, fell and hit his head and was unable to be revived.

My heart breaks for them. I know they may be famous movie stars but when it's all said and done, they are just human like you and me and they need Jesus! Just becasue they are known around the world doesn't mean their pain is any less.

I can't imagine what they are going through. Chandler is 16 and the very thought of something like this is unthinkable!

Please keep them on your heart and pray for them.