Holy Day!

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T'was the Night Before Christmas...

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Been Tagged Awhile

Welcome to the Christmas edition of getting to know your friends. Okay, here's what you're supposed to do, and try not to be a SCROOGE!!! Just copy this entire post and paste it into your own post. Change all the answers so that they apply to you. Then tag someone else!

I tag Nico, Michelle, and anyone else that actually reads me and hasn't been tagged yet!

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Both, but those bags are oh so easy!

2. Real or artificial tree? With the whole pre-lit thing going on I have to say artificial, plus it pains me when I think of all the trees that we cut down every year to sell and then dispose of. Just doesn't seem right to me.

3. When do you put up the tree? weekend after thanksgiving. Like to start the season of Christmas as soon as possible

4. When do you take the tree down? I'd keep it up through the season of epiphany if hubs would let me, but it usually comes down a weekend around the first of the year.

5. Do you like eggnog? I used to LOVE it, but this year I'm pregnant and it just sounds repulsive.

6. Favorite gift received as a child? I have trouble remembering my favorite (this should tell us about something about what we are stressing ourselves out to buy for our kids). I honestly remember just loving the festivities surrounding Christmas! But I do remember to particular gifts. I got a Cabbage patch premie, and mine was of a different ethnicity I think cause maybe that's all they had left, but I thought that made it even more special...even more mine. And I remember the year I discovered that santa wasn't real I got a purple scooter. Saw the box in the parents room and then remember hearing them trying to put it together Christmas eve at my grandmother's house while we were supposed to be sleeping. (none of us were).

7. Do you have a nativity scene? 2 actually, thanks to my SIL! we have a ceramic one that we bought years ago (at least two heads have been glued back on), and now Shelby gave us an adorable small one made of wood that M loves and we will most likely put it on Jesus' b-day cake this year. P.S. when I was in college I had one entirely out of paper (just like paper dolls with the little stands and everything) that I got at the Dollar Tree for $1. That thing was awesome!

8. Hardest person to buy for? In-laws on all parts. We don't really do lists so we know that in general gift cards are the way to go, but we have a tight budget, so I always feel like it's not enough. I can make an actual gift seem more valuable in many ways cause of the time and effort put into them, can't do that with a gift card.

10. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? generally any type of underwear would have fallen into this category, only now that I'm older, I will buy underwear with my Christmas gift cards.

11. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail, if I actually send any. I rarely find time to do this.

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? I have snuggled up and watched two recently. My utmost fave, "The Family Man" with Nicholas Cage and Tea Leoni! What a movie! Makes you remember the things that really matter.

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? All year! seriously, but I didn't do enough of it this year cause I was still scroungin this last week even.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? heck yeah! Especially if it's a really good one that you happen to have two of.

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Mom's dressing and chocolate pie

16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? Clear/white

17. Favorite Christmas song? Love Christmas Songs! Carols are Silent Night and Away in a Manger. Still cry when I hear O Holy Night on the radio! What a worshipful song about Jesus' birth! Then I love any Christmas songs in New Orleans Style something about it. Love Harry Connick Jr's Frosty and Lois Armstrong's Christmas Time in New Orleans.

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? used to travel alot. Now we try to stay home and enjoy it as our own family.

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

20. What's on the tree top? A rusty star that has lights in it.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or Christmas morning? One on Christmas Eve. The rest on Christmas morning AFTER we sing Happy Birthday to Jesus and blow out the candles on the cake (and while we are eating cake for breakfast of course)

22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? I have a list: People refusing to be jolly about Christmas-- It is the best time of year ever; TRAFFIC and trying to shop; People being rude

23. Do you decorate your tree in any specific theme or color? No, though eventually I'd love to have more than one tree so some could have themes. We pick up similar ornaments whenever we travel to different places. We have lots of those on our tree.

24. What do/did you leave for Santa? Cookies and milk.

25. What were any traditions you had growing up? Any that you do as an adult now? I always loved the Carols by Candlelight service growing up, but it was tricky to work any family time in at Christmas as Dad was usually involved with the music. So, Mom started the tradition of fondue. And that is Christmas eve dinner! It is fun and takes awhile, so it forced us all to interact for more than 30 min. at a time. I love that tradition so much I have carried it on. This is the first year we have done it. J, M, and I all sat down to fondue tonight. Steak, Chicken, bread and apples for the cheese fondue, fresh strawberries and pineapples, graham crackers, apples, and marshmallows for the chocolate fondue. My intention was to also serve baked potatoes, but completely forgot those in the prep of all that and the Birthday Cake for Jesus. Oh well. It was great. M didn't enjoy it like J and I did, but then she is an impatient 2 year old. Still she had a great time.





The only other is to actually through a birthday party for Jesus on Christmas morning and have cake with breakfast. Wait till you see it! It was at least as fun making it as it's going to be eating it tomorrow. We were going to do streamers everywhere, but I'm too tired at this point. Oh well. Maybe before we do the blowing out the candles on the cake and singing we'll read the Christmas story! Yep. I think so.

A Wise Quote

This is a quote I borrow from a gal who also borrowed it...AND YET I find it stunningly appropriate for life right now. I am not battling terminal cancer like my friend, but none the less am battling something else (aren't we all). I would have liked to remind myself of this quote almost daily during Katrina, but I never knew. Now, at a time when I watch my family go through what I can only describe as a far more painful, "man-made", personally inflicted by people that were supposed to love, disaster...I find these words comforting. In this season of joy and celebration, please remember to see those around you. Not everyone is in a season of celebration in their lives. Some people may need more than a $4 gift wrapped in a bag with sparkles and tissue paper. If nothing else give Christ this year. Be the reminder yourself. Be Christ for others.

Octavius Winslow… “During the process that God is providentially dealing with His people, there is often much that seems to ruffle the surface of the soul, disturbing its repose with a wave here, a billow there, a swelling yonder. His providential dealings are sometimes so inexplicable, painful, and dark, that for a moment the child of God is, as it were, unbalanced. He begins to think that all these circumstances and events are about to militate against his best interests, while that is transpiring, the feeling of perfect satisfaction. But let him calmly wait and trustfully hope until God Himself interprets…gives him light on what is now so shaded, perfects the thing concerning him, and then,…he will say, ‘Lord, it is enough; I am perfectly satisfied with all your dealings with me. I thought the stroke severe, I felt that burden crushing; I trembled as I entered into that cloud; my unbelieving heart murmured; but now, my God, my Father, in clearer light I…exclaim, ‘It is enough; I shall be satisfied when I awake in thy likeness.’ The full, the perfect satisfaction is reserved when we enter glory, and look back on all the past and see how wise, how loving, how holy, was the whole arrangement of God’s gracious and providential dealings with us.”

6 years!

Happy Anniversary Baby...I got you on my mind! Well, it hasn't been the most enchanting anniversary ever, but I'm more glad than ever to be married to my man! It's hard to believe when I look at these pictures how long it seems that we've been married and yet in the scheme of life it's been no time at all. I hope it is sooooo much longer. I can't imagine life with out him. I love living it with him and I'm thankful to God for placing us together for this journey.

Savvy Surprise!

Today was girls day out. Me, Mom, and M are out and about and have no agenda. We think we might like to stop by lots of the Goodwill's in the area and we know we have to stop by a Wal-mart. When we come to the first Goodwill, M doesn't want to go in, till she discovers she will most likely get something out of the deal. And what is the first thing she went for might you ask? A lovely pair of pink and colorful rainboots in her size! Stride Rite no less! A mere $2 (which Nani foot the bill for). I ventured to the maternity section cause if you are avid readers you'll remember that in our last yard sale my hubs mistakenly sold the entire tub of maternity clothes that I had set aside for a friend. And he only sold the whole tub for $2! Not 2 weeks later we heard the surprising news that we were pregnant again and unexpected!

A very giving friend over at itsamomthing let me borrow two tubs full of maternity clothes which will be fantastic come summer! A good bit of them are for summer time and they are in XL which will be a while till I can wear them. I'm still wearing my regular clothes sort of. Truthfully, I may have gained 2-3 pounds at the most (even though I'm starving and eat all the time), but most of the pants I still wear are low rise and that help. However, I noticed that the waist on at least one or two pair are seeming a little more restraining these days and thus I realize it won't be long now till I'll need another option.

My fave thing last pregnancy was my fave jeans and this red shirt. I went to Goodwill looking for a fave pair of jeans. Lo and behold I found 2 pair and a khaki pair in L which will be perfect as I get even bigger! I also found several shirts that I really liked and they were longsleeves. I'm picky about styles, so I was thrilled to find quality and style. Thank you lovely post preggers lady who gave your clothes to Goodwill! On top of that many of them were 1/2 price today!

Then...we tried the Goodwill on Haywood down by Laurens Rd. As we rounded the corner we saw that the sign said Goodwill Clearance Center! This should be good I say to my mom. Then we open the doors and our eyes got as big as the bins that were filled with items all over the store for the one price of 99 cents a pound! Mom and I only looked in the toys and books bins! And we were there for 2 hours AND M was perfectly happy! There were toys coming out of her ears to keep her thoroughly entertained! I found up to day NICE brand name toys of all kinds. Leap Start, Vtech, Li'l people, Fisher Price...So many NICE toys, but I couldn't take them all! Still.

Here is a pic and list of what I did come away with: Many will be gifts for others. Some are toys we've wanted for a while, but refuse to pay even close to full price for. Some are for potty training rewards. AND all of them cost $14 total. (That was the pounds remember). Except books. Books are 10 cents per pound, which I spent 20 cents.

6--Children's books (one dora, peter rabbit, The Going to Bed Book by Sandra Boynton, Pat the Bunny...)

1 Dipsy Teletubbie (he talks when you squeeze him- 6 different things)
1 La-La Teletubbie fingerpuppet still in package (stocking stuffer)
2 sand scrapers (realized I didn't have any this week as it was 80 degrees)
3 pink mega blocks (M always asks for the pink ones)
6 1/2 cups of play doh (a new fave of M's)
1 parents magazine ball pounder and hammer
1 Playskool Airtivity Ball popper w/2 balls
2 small and 1 lg play doh molder thing(s)
1 blue/white push on nite lite
1 blue/white light up wand
pedicure set (flip flops, brush, cuticle press, file)
electric nail dryer
silver sparkles nail polish (gift)
crystal drop necklace
dress up purple tiara
dress up aqua irridescent purse
dress up perfume sprayer
dress up necklace
dress up compact (magical sounds)
dress up mirror
Little People's Eddie (and Freddie)
1 Sprinkler sprayer for summer fun
1 old school Care Bear (even if this doesn't come out well after washing...it only cost like 10 cents)
1 American Idol noise maker clapper
6 Ponies
1 My Li'l Pony lunch box
1 Talking Dora swimming pool and Dora figurine
1 leather coin purse
1 Homer Simpson doll (which I actually had a dream about last night that I bought one at Sears for J's stocking stuffer!)

Ever Feel Like This!

M has been like this in recent days past...Thankfully we are at least temporarily out of this stage! Couldn't help but pass it along for those who are there.

Decorations Complete!

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We're Back

Been gone a long time...or so it seems. It was one of those vacations where you end up needing a vacation from your vacation. Too many hours in the car over too many days having slept in too many beds. seriously, there is nothing like your own bed! I slept last night like I haven't slept in a long time! I'm pregnant right...but I don't even think I woke to go to the bathroom. Ahhh!

Still, it was good to see family and relatives we haven't seen in a long time. In Jackson, we saw some cousins that have never seen M. I think M had a good time, but I sensed she was long past ready to come home too. Funny how important that sense of home is. That place to come back to that is yours. That is quiet and peaceful and safe. Makes me wonder how many people search for that "home" their whole lives.

Our tree is up. Our house is still a general disaster (all the unpacking just make that worse). I'm still sick, though a good bit better. Actually ended up with an ear infection and the worst cold ever. Been having headaches just about daily which can't be good. And God has been good in the midst of all the struggles my family has been through this year. Even today He is showing himself present and at work.

I'll post pics soon. Hopefully this week, though my priority list has that near the bottom (and is quite full I might add). I'm thinking maid service for a year would be a terrific Christmas present! Ha! Till Later...

Things are Looking Up

I've been feeling significantly better! Hallelujah! Seriously, I was still not feeling well. I discovered that my prenatals were the culprit. So I've been doing the flinstone vitamin thing for the last 3 days and feel 10 times better! I'm still feeling pregnant. A little "ookie" when morning comes or my stomach is getting too empty. I feel tired alot and am not at all interested in cooking or cleaning.

I hugged a friends neck today. That was nice.

I got some good news about this baby and money today. That was great!

I'm at witt's end with M's poo issues, but I think we've decided to cut out dairy entirely...maybe try goat or soy milk. she already can't do cheese. Something's gotta give on this issue. Seriously doing a number on our family time.

My house is a disaster and I told my hubs that I have lost all handle on this household and he laughed as did I, and said that he hasn't said anything cause he's been of absolutely no help! Ha. Funny moment but great communication. So maybe we'll do some cleaning before we skip out of town for thanksgiving extravaganza.

AND I think we're putting up the tree today! M can hardly wait and neither can her mother!

On birthing center...I went to my appt. at blessed births and loved it. It was a good fit, so for now I suppose that is the route I'm taking.

Been Sick

I've been out sick. Not pregnant sick (though that is a small portion of it), managed to get the stomach virus extended version. I started feeling bad last saturday and didn't feel significantly better till Thursday. Wore myself out Friday trying to make up for all the lost days. Went to bed at 9pm. last night.

Today was a good deal better. Still feeling pregnant...nothing sounds good, slight headache, lots of exhaustion, but significantly better. Would've helped if I had gotten out of the house today. M and I did have a dance party on the porch while hubs took our stuff to Goodwill. It was fun...M clearly thought so also. I had a mediocre night with M seeing as it was traumatic poop day! Had to do the suppository thing tonight after reading 5 stories to her while she sat on the potty. She hates the "posi" but what do you do when you kid won't poo. It all kicked in eventually and she ended up going on the potty about 3 days worth! She ought to feel significantly better! AND she did it on the potty so she got a special prize. I think in the end she was proud of herself. Now if I can just keep that all going somehow...

Spent an hour on the phone chatting with a friend. It's nice to have someone I can do that with. Us ladies need eachother. That was like a blessed break for us both! I'm looking into making some pj's for m and her cuz for their Christmas picture. We'll see... Off to bed.

Never Shop for Groceries when Pregnant

So, here is my post. I'M PREGNANT! I've been waiting to post about this till all my family knew. No, I wasn't expecting this, but I'm trying to get used to it. I think it might actually be setting in today. I've been exploring birthing options.

I took M with me to grocery shop. Now my avid readers know that I'm very careful and stick to my strict budget of $50 a week. Well, I found that shopping while pregnant is a different story. I didn't go in there buying up all the twinkies and ding dongs I could find. In fact, the chips to go with the salsa was about the worst of it...except maybe the bag of frozen curly fries (which was truly more for my hubs). Still, I got more variety than usual. more fruit, more meat, more dairy...AND when my cart was so full (which it never is) I ended up only going $10 over budget! Now, I was disappointed that I went over at all, but I was thrilled that it was only $10 considering all that I took home. We may actually be good for the entire month on just about half the budget.

On pregnancy...I've been irritable and moody and tired. DUH. I don't like feeling this way but it's hard to shake. Well, today was a better day for my mood. I felt productive and not as tired as usual and that really helped. Now I don't really get sick...I don't feel what I would describe as nauseous, but I do feel not hungry or anti a particular food...or any food. Then there's the acne! I did not have this issue with M, which is pushing everyone to say that this one must be a boy. Either way I don't care, but I hate the acne issues! so annoying. don't want to take any pics! This too shall pass.

BIRTHING ALTERNATIVES
So what do we think about water births? birthing centers? home birth? I'm just curious. In fact I've always been curious. When I had M my birthing experience was not that great. I loved one of my nurses and my dr. at least during delivery, but my relationship with doc left something to be desired throughout. AND I couldn't stand all the hook-ups and the nurses coming in and out every 30 minutes all through the night. The facility was extremely disappointing. My hubs couldn't sleep at all and the shower head wouldn't stay in it's place (not to mention no water pressure at all), making showering very difficult. I'm currently researching alternatives. I'm not just going to go with whatever is suggested unless I feel equally comfortable with it. I'm doing more research this time. AND I'm paying much more attention to cost since this birth is unexpected and only 2500 dollars of it will be covered by our insurance! This will be interesting and hopefully very fun!

The First Frost

Well, October is nearly over and we finally got our first frost. I'm looking forward to really seeing the changing leaves now! M has been talking all about the leaves and colors of fall! In fact, she's been learning and practicing her spanish colors that way. She amazes me with her little spongy brain!

So much has happened since I posted last and I feel as though I owe some type of explanation for why I've been silent, but I know that technically I don't owe any explanation, so I'm not giving one! Ha! Is that mean or what! No, seriously. I haven't posted cause I haven't wanted to take the time, because I have far more to say than I can, and cause I've been in and out of a funk. So there it is.

Trying to figure out the upcoming holidays! This is still hard after 6 years of marriage. We know we like to reserve Christmas for our little special family! It's our coveted time for making memories and such. But Thanksgiving is hard this year cause my FOO and extended family (FOO is family of origin) are all getting together to celebrate a bunch of uncles turning 60 and cousins that I haven't seen since before M was even a thought are going to be there with all their children (and when I say ALL I mean they all have soooo many). I really want to be in the middle of all that and I love seeing my Grandmother, Mamaw, but it's a pretty long trip for a 2 year old not to mention the massive amount of gas (aka money). Then we have the issue that to get to Jackson from here we'll have to pass through B'ham, so that is good and difficult. That is where my whole in-law family lives which is great cause we would get to see them too. But we'd have to keep getting back in the car to keep going further! Who knows...we are going back and forth. Either way we are definitely getting to B'ham for Thanksgiving. We rarely get "enough" time there when we go though...you know how it is.

Do others still struggle with this? I know you have to. I think I put this question into the Mom-to-mom round table discussion box. Speaking of that...IT'S TOMORROW! I'm thrilled. Seriously. Mom to Mom this past week was the highlight of the entire week (just about). It was like that moment in Steel Magnolias where Truvy says that laughter through tears is her favorite emotion! What a blessing! We cried with one gal in her struggles and we laughed with everybody trying to talk about S-to the -E-to the -X in church with our Titus women! It was a riot! Precious times of being real and vulnerable. I'm glad God worked things out the way He did. Oh, He knows...every little thing that we need or even will need eventually. So tomorrow is round table where the Titus ladies (the older wiser ones) try to answer our generally anonymous questions that have been collecting in a box since September. Love it. Can't wait.

So much more to say and tell, but I've said enough for now. Time to go sew. working on decor for my friends home. so fun. A little indigo girls, a little heat (finally), a lot of concentration, and hopefully lots of prayerful thoughts, as I work to get to the end of several projects which will be so satisfying to see those end products. bedskirt and duvet and curtain.

The Post About the Post

Today was monday...I say was because for me it is basically over. Mondays are generally tough for me maybe because I'm generally confined to my home. Maybe because I generally have no useful thing to do. I seriously don't know. But the redeeming part of Mondays is bible study!

Can I just say, "We made it through week 6!" Hopefully, maybe we are on the up and up now.

Bible study was great! Of course everydays' entry was remarkably precise for me right now. I talked about the "church" as the Bride of Christ last week in blog and sure enough we talked about that in this weeks study.

On that note, that particular blog came into question privately. Some were disconcerted that they may have been the receptors for some unnecessary falsehood or fingerpointing. I assure you that though it was a specific event that got my mind rolling in that direction, none of the comments were directed at anyone or any collective whole except maybe the American Church (and denominations). I hope that no one felt personally wronged by the words, but the point was to ruffle the feathers of those who find themselves satisfied with the way things are.

Please keep in mind that things expressed in this blog certainly are not the end all be all. I don't pretend to be much of an expert on anything, so if something strikes a chord, be a skeptic, search your scriptures and find the truth. I hope to always speak it, but I am human and I too make mistakes.

Back to the study, SIL and I were able to connect with some other gals and were reminded that we are accepted and ought to feel safe. There is a trust issue at hand here which is healthy for group interaction, and the truth of the matter is that we too, have what is best for the group as a whole as our main goal. God has brought us all together for a reason, and I for one, am glad that He did.

Thank you Lord for bringing those together in your perfect way even tonight. May you be glorified.

Big Saturday

Today has been a BIG day in so many ways. Me, my SIL family, my parents had a huge yard sale. We always use my house cause it's on a main road and gets a lot of traffic. I couldn't sleep cause I had the yard sale jitters that someone was up early sifting through my stuff while I was sleeping. I woke at 3:30, 4:30, and then just stayed awake in bed till 5:30 when I finally drug myself up and out the door to set up.

It was soooo cold this morning too! Good thing my SIL brought me some yummy breakfast and HOT coffee. My parents overslept, so I had to call them (not like they don't deserve to sleep in after the month they've had!). Still I needed organizational help.

AND I didn't get to go to my $6 box sale which I was really hoping to slip away too. That helps so much with the budget usually. Oh well. I'll have to play sweep the pantry till the next one in 2 weeks.

Altogether we made a hair over $450! How bout that for a yard sale where in we didn't put up signs or post it in the paper (we did do craigslist though). In fact we didn't even try to sell a good deal of furniture cause we knew we would get a better deal on craigslist. So that's our next project. AND I got something I've been looking for to organize M's purses and hats (free from the pile). I also got a Christmas gift for hubs from my BIL's pile and a scarecrow to go on my porch as I have been heavy into the project of bring fall to my house. One annoying thing happened...I had set aside (at the end of the sale) a slew of maternity clothes and baby girl things for my friend who is pregnant, and while I was putting M to nap, Hubs sold the entire tub full to some old ladies for $2.00! I was ill. At least if he was going to sell it he could have asked a good price! Oh well. I tried.

We made a family trip to ALDI and I ran into BiLo for the few things we can't get at ALDI. I'm starting to like shopping together. We are trying the cash system again and it really helps having Hubs there tallying as we go. We use our list and I even menu plan. This helps cut down on unnecessary spending. M was delightful too. She was so happy she was singing songs aloud! It was fun.

To top it off, we stopped at my friend Sarah's house cause she so kindly scoured around for an old phone I could use. See, I don't remember if I posted this or not, but I laid my phone on the hood of someone's car at the party last saturday and never saw it again. Totally my fault, but you know...if I could help not having to spend money on a new phone, that's great! So Sarah got her FIL's old phone and charger. It's nice too. I'm thrilled and can hardly wait to activate it. I'm sure the text box is full if not the voice mail. So, if you think I don't like you cause I haven't called you back, it's not true...it's just that I have no idea you called! Ha! I hope to remedy that soon. And M kept saying "Mommy, you got a present?!" To which I replied "Oh yes! I got a new phone!"

And She Does It Again...

So I thought my sister's post about self control was great! And it was...but she jumped on one of my all time favorite soap boxes in her next post so I have to link again! This is a must read if you are interested on her thoughts about True Christianity! She is far more eloquent than I and/thus all I can say to this is Right On Sis! Wish I could put those same thoughts and feelings into words in the same way that you do!

Love my Sis!

I'm not sure if I've ever linked to her blog before as my own post...but that is my post for today. Please read this post I found over there. I was so impressed with it in so many ways! Especially if you struggle with self control and eating...check this out! I know I needed to hear it!

Lip Service

I have been mulling over a recent event that just about ruined one of my favorite times. In this mulling process I have pinpointed the righteousness that comes in the midst of the anger (which is kind of odd generally). I'm tired of the Christian Crap. Let's just call it like it is. In the book I'm reading the author calls it "Chicken poop for the soul." I'm struggling with our humanness in the midst of our Christianity. Do we truly want to live as Christ calls us to live or do we settle for second best so that we can protect our little world.

I got news people!!! God is not out to protect our little world! He is there to shatter the boxes that we try to place him in! He is here to ruffle our feathers and make us so uncomfortable that we can't deny him any longer! He is the great revolutionary of all time and I'm ready to join the revolution!

Rock the boat! Get out of the bubble! You are missing it if you don't. God did not intend for so-called Christians to be the very reason that the lost and even other believers turn away from Him. And unfortunately this is the case more often than not.

I can assure you that if I were not secure in my God that I would have kissed this craziness goodbye long ago. But Christ calls the church his bride! Can you imagine?! Sometimes I think it is a lot more like Bridezilla!

Get this...that building...that business...that organization that calls itself the church, it isn't. The church is the body of Christ. A collection of believers that work and interact so closely together that they become as one entity, unable to function properly without all of its member being in working order.

I was recently made to feel as if I were the appendix. My presence was practically useless and possibly hazardous! THis just isn't the case. God has called me to fight to the death for His bride. And I will regardless of the feathers that are ruffled.

Please if you consider yourself a Christian and especially a member of a church, don't just give God lipservice. REGARDLESS OF THE COST, seek the truth, love justice, and walk humbly with God. LOVE (in word AND DEED) your neighbor as yourself.

Who is your neighbor? Christ was also asked this to which he responded with the parable of the Good Samaritan. Read if you will Luke 10. Where do you find yourself in this story and be honest. Consider for a moment if the injured person were afflicted with something else. We'd all like to think that if someone were physically injured that we would stop and help, but what if he/she were shunned by those around you for one reason or another? Would you be the one to tell your friends to get a grip and then in deed reach out to help carry that persons burden? Or would you shy away cause you have reputation to uphold, a job you'd like to keep safe, a family to "protect"?

God is speaking to me constantly through his word right now which is unbelievable and oh so comforting! I wish I could pass it all on, but this post is long enough. Please be in prayer for me and my family as we fight diligently for the Lord through an unexpected and unwanted trial. Pray that God ALONE will be glorified!

Halloween Hoopla

My bloggin friend Jamie, posted on halloween. It was an opinionated post (not necessarily a bad thing), but it got me thinking. It jist of it was that she doesn't do halloween. At least not yet cause her kids are young and don't really care or know about it. She says that people spend too much money on it and that it's foolishness anyway.

I definitely understand your point of view, but the same could be said for most holidays! And what's so bad about a little "foolishness" in moderation. They are kids! M has had a costume every year. I too did the first time mom thing and ridiculously bought her a pea pod costume that first year. Uh...we wore it to Ruby Tuesdays. I admit that was dumb. At least that first and/or second year you can get by with wearing a halloween themed tee. I would definitely suggest that. But after that kids know about it. They don't get it really (neither do I really) but it is a memory made none the less.

For kids its more like imagining and playing dress up. It is hard to find the balance between make believe and reality. To practice imagining and make believe is not avoiding reality, it is growing cognitive thinkers...more creative minds. Minds with less man-made boundaries. Do I think it is important to tap into reality with kids. On a certain scale sure...depending on their age even more so.

Do I think we shouldn't waste money? Absolutely! Do I think there are tons of better things we could do with our money, always! But we need to remember that it's all in what we make of it. Maybe part of your halloween tradition could be spending a whole day as one of your favorite people doing something for someone else. You could dress up and bring goody bags to the hospital to cheer those children who would love to but don't get to participate.

All these things are teaching opportunities for you and your children. There is no need to spend crazy money on candy and/costumes. Thrift stores baby! They have all kinds of costumes that were only worn one time! And they are cheap! Wear the same one twice if it's the kind you can grow into. I did this for as many years as I could be pink panther. Then I fell off someones front porch into a prickly bush and my plastic costume was severed beyond repair! Ha!

Get creative and make a costume out of things you already have! Borrow one from a friend whose kids is bigger than yours! We could wear Grace's Dora costume from last year! We are just going to have our own though cause it is a pink shirt, orange shorts, yellow socks, and a purple backpack! All useful items individually.

This subject is tricky and as a Christian there's the whole supporting evil things issue. Again...it's a teaching time for you and your family. It's a building memories time for you and your family. Make it what you need it to be so as to promote your beliefs. But don't forget that it doesn't hurt to have fun!

The Poopin Place

M has a poopin problem. She is always constipated. It's a battle to figure out just what or a combination of the things that actually cause it. Regardless, our friends David and Suzette are to whom we run during the crisis. Not because they have all knowledge and wisdom on such things. Not because they have been through them or know someone who has had a similar experience. No. It's because no matter what M always poops at their house!

Tonight was no exception. After a very unsuccessful week with all that, She actually pooped on her own Saturday a.m. but she still needed to do some more. She's been strainin off and on since then but with no success. We hadn't been at their house more then 7 minutes when she took the biggest poo...And that's as far as I'll go! I was actually excited about this!

I hope she feels like a million bucks now. I hope that the doctor actually calles us back on Monday about this. I hope that her teacher lady does bring us some of the all natural stuff she was telling me about last Wednesday. I'm ready to nip this in the bud so that we don't have to be so poop-centric! And so we can finish up the potty training thing!

In case ya'll didn't know, we took down the crib this Saturday and she's doing the big girl bed thing. Course, she initiated and the beds been in her room since she was an infant. She's done really well. In fact, we put her to bed in Nani's big girl bed at her house so that we could sneak out for some long overdue adult time. Believe it or not we snuck to Starbucks and both of us had drinks for a total of less than $4. Thanks Shayna for the coupon!

Things I Wish Everyone Already Knew

• Things aren't always what they seem
• Don't believe everything you hear, read, etc.
• Your sins really will find you out
• God's vengeance is always better.
• God's way is always better
• Just because a person claims to be Christian doesn't mean they are always Christ like (unfortunately)
• In general, the culture doesn't accept people who are different (even if it's different good)
• Ignorance isn't really bliss...it's ignorance
• Most things are not better left unsaid
• The truth really does set you free
• Money really is the root of most things evil
• Unfortunately people aren't always as they seem
• A true friend ought to love at all times (if he/she doesn't then maybe he/she isn't a true friend)
• The American church as we find it today is not exactly what God designed.
• Just because something is good doesn't mean it's best.
• Just because something is good doesn't mean it is of God
• 
  

Keepin Busy

Sometimes I like to be busy. Don't get me wrong I ought to live for the uneventful days in my life cause they seem to be so few and far between! Ha! But seriously, I suppose one of my defenses against heavy anxiety is business. I don't necessarily think it's a good thing, but it works for a while. So here's what I've been up to.

• I made M a fleece jacket (had a pattern that I got for 25 cents and had saved) Had the fleece left over from my cloth diaper making days, had ribbons to finish the edges from a project I'm working on with my girl Sara. Did this Monday.
• Aided Sara in cleaning out her garage...more like organizing, but will you believe that we actually got it done in a matter of 4 hours or so?! I wasn't sure it could be done. Today.
  
• Consigned bunch of M's toys and equipment on Thursday.
• Organized my mom's garage Thursday as well.
• Clean swept and organized stuff for yard sale.
• Help Sara do the same
• Prepping for Sara's b-day party (Thurs.)
• Went to My Child's Closet for Grace's b-day present
• Took M to the big party (Saturday)
• Went to the big baptism (Sara and Grace)
• been cutting, pinning and prepping S's duvet.
• Tea dyed an old sheet for Grace's bed side table
• reading Irresistible Revolution
  

That's all I can think of...EXCEPT improving my marriage which has been fabulous! So on that note I'll go spend some more time with hubs.

See Post Below

My Truth Shall Set You Free post was delayed so don't miss it! You'll have to scroll down past the $6 box post to see it. Please read though. It will help you better understand "where I've been" the last 3 weeks. I don't have all the answers to what's been going on, but I can provide the basic information. If you need more info, please contact Dad's previous employer.

$6 Box Sale

I did it. I finally went back to the $6 a box sale. It was insane! Word of mouth can really draw a crowd. Wherein we were able to go to and fro the aisles a good 3 times on our last visit, this time there were so many people that we barely made it down 3 aisles before there were slim pickins. I will definitely have to take pics before it starts next time. There is no way to take a pic once it has started unless you are uninterested in filling your box with things you need.

BTW this is not shopping for the tenderhearted. It's push and shove to get to the juice before the next gal gets it. I really didn't get to some of the things I really needed, but I still filled my box with useful things. And here is my list...REMEMBER all of these combined only cost $6!

1 glass jar of Lime juice (lemon juice was on my grocery list, so this is great!)
1 large jug of Gatorade
1 medium jug of strawberry banana juice
Hogsen Mill Soy flour (I use this all the time for egg substitute in baking)
1 baking soda
4 balance mix protein bars (my fave believe it or not!)
1 pack of quaker granola bars
2 liter ginger ales
1 ensure
1 pack bud's best animal crackers
1 pack sugar free animal crackers
18pk. pampers diapers
1 box of swiss miss hot cocoa w/ marshmallows
buttermilk pancake and waffle mix
1 pack of rice cakes
2 jif to go peanut butters
2 spaghettios
3 green beans
1 family size green beans
1 carnation evaporated milk
2 campbells chicken noodle soup
1 kraft mac n cheese
1 easy mac
1 ranch style beans
1 oatmeal squares cereal
1 fiber one type cereal
1 vanilla sandwich creams
2 bars of dial soap

So fun! Love a good shopping experience.

The Truth Shall Set You Free

So I've been asking you to pray for my family for a while as they have been going through a difficult time. In general, it's over and done, but the after quakes are in full swing.

My dad was asked to resign. He did not feel that God was leading him in that way. There were some reasons, three to be exact, but small in my opinion and certainly not requiring resignation, maybe just guidance. If you need to know more specifics, I suppose you'll need to ask dad or the others involved. In no small way did I chose to post in order to make sure those that have heard understand that according to his employer THERE IS NO MORAL ISSUE HERE. Dad's godliness and integrity were not in question. Simply put, certain accusers had lost confidence in his leadership.

He did not turn in his resignation. His only request was that the situation be handled in standing with the bible and in truth. Since there was no assurance given for this, he refused to hand in his resignation and thus was terminated.

That's it. There's the story. Now you know better how to pray. Please continue to do so for my family.

____________________

Now those of you that know me...well need to know that I am not necessarily O.K. with all that has occurred. I am handling my emotions day by day and only with God's help. Scripture helps the most. Please continue to encourage me to keep things real, to check my attitude, mood, actions, etc. with scripture. Even and especially in the midst of trials I want to identify with Him.

God's Word to whom it may concern...

Joshua 5:13 +

Now when Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, "Are you for us or for our enemies?"

"Neither," he replied, "but as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come." Then Joshua fell facedown to the ground in reverence, and asked him, "What message does my Lord have for his servant?"

The commander of the Lord's army replied, "Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy. " And Joshua did so.

Now Jericho was tightly shut up because of the Israelites. No one went out and no one came in.

Then the Lord said to Joshua, "See, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king and its fighting men. March around the city once with all the armed men. Do this for six days...

(Joshua obeyed)

But Joshua had commended the people, "Do not give a war cry, do not raise your voices, do not say a word until the day I tell you to shout. Then shout!" ...

On the seventh day, they got up at daybreak and marched around the city seven times in teh same manner, except that on that day they circled the city seven times. The seventh time around, when the priests sounded the trumpet blast, Joshua commanded the people, "Shout! For the Lord has given you the city! The city and all that is in it are to be devoted to the Lord. Only Rahab the prostitute and all who are with her in her house shall be spare, because she hid the spies we sent. But keep away from the devoted things, so that you will not bring about your own destruction by taking any of them. Otherwise you will make the camp of Israel liable to destruction and bring trouble upon it..."

(And so it was done just as God had promised)...

So the Lord was with Joshua and his fame spread throughout the land.

_______________________

Sometimes in a battle, to be silent is wisdom (as it says in the proverbs). Sometimes God requires that we take a stand...for Him, for what is pure, true, holy, righteous. It's ared to tell when to do what, but now God is telling me to rise up! I'm scared. Not so much for me or what God requires of me, but I'm scared for those on whom God's judgement rests. As we pray for revival on our personal level, God is drawing us to call out for revival on a much begger level. If I have to die to be a catalyst for this then so be it. I'm yours God. Use me as you see fit!

Catchin' Up

This post is a catch up post. Thank goodness those "hot" dog days of summer are on their way out (even though it was 91 degrees today and yesterday). Even so, here are some pics from a really hot, stay-in-your-pajamas-all-day, picnic that Cuz and M had indoors! It was Nickelodeon, french fries, corn dogs, corn, and who even remembers what else. It was an abandon most of the rules day and just have fun! They had a little dance party too with Yo Gabba Gabba (even mom can get into this). These Are the Days...to Remember!

It's a desk too!

Remember this?! Well, my 2.00 purchase is not only a high chair and rocking horse, but a desk as well. I may have mentioned that one of my readers commented that she has the same one and tipped me off to the desk portion, or I may never have put it to good use. It makes a very useful tv dinner position (on the occasions that we actually do that). Good for containing crayon and craft messes too.

Picture Post

I finally got the pics off of my phone. It's so convenient since I don't always have a camera when I need one the most. Enjoy!

Good Idea Mommy

We are playing clean the pantry and/or clean the freezer. So we broke out the popsicles that were almost forgotten.

M has a thing about not liking cold foods too much, but she has recently figured out that ice cream is really good once you get past the fact that it's cold. So, out came the popsicles.
I let her pick the color (pink of course!) I took yellow since there seemed to be an overabundance of them. I fished her gloves out of the sock bin and she was a happy girl! The gloves helped alot.

My Latest Shpiel

O.K. Since this is a "family friendly, " G rated posting, I have to be care what words and such I use so as to not attract unwanted visitors. Hubs and I have been visiting a new church start where it just so happens that they started a new series called Undercover the first week we visited.

It was so great that first week that I told J that I needed to go back and hear more. Now the S to the E to the X is something that all married couples ought to be dealing with on a regular basis and it is extremely important, but in most Christian circles it is still swept under the covers (hence the series name). I'm not saying that this guy is the best preacher that I've ever heard...actually he is raw and real and human, and that actually makes me like him more. The way he biblically and humorously addresses such an important and everpresent topic speaks right to me.

Hey, I'm just being honest, but after nearly 6 years of marriage, one child and two enormous life changes (Katrina and the unspeakable one I'm currently in the middle of), the "S" word is barely in my vocabulary much less marriage...And that's just sad. The enemy comes to steal kill and destroy, but Christ came so that we could have life! And get this...even more ABUNDANT life. I'd say "being married" (catch me on that one) is part of that abundant life. He gave us so many blessings, why this....ABUNDANCE!

So, if you have been around me lately and you are of the female persuasion, you've already heard my reminders and such about being there fro your man...If not, or even still, go to the website and click on the two most recent "sermons" in the new series Undercover.

(Anyone else notice I'm terrible at using quotation marks? Yeah. O.K. Anyone else notice I've given you ample opportunity to link to these "sermons")

Seriously, as a married person I can not stress to you how important being reminded about this "stuff" is. I said to Hubs that people pay good money to go to counseling for this stuff and he is just telling it like it is.

Go Here. And revive your marriage.

M Antics!

What can I say?! I love my family! And M keeps us rolling! What personality! I wonder where she gets it? Today there were many funnies, but the ones I'm posting are these.

First, when I picked her up from "school" her teachers asked me what it was that she was saying all day about her best friend? "Nigua?" "Negro?" (to these I'm think 'good heavens!' and get a little anxious). No you preschool teachers, It's Uniqua the backyardigan!


This animal? monstrosity was adopted near the end of August. M is pretty good about playing with things in the store and then saying her goodbyes and leaving the toy on the shelf. Uniqua was a different story. She spotted this creature as big as she and the excitement was expressed in whisper tones of great awe and wonderment. So Uniqua was invited to ride along in the shopping cart as we did our further shopping. As the trip progressed, it was obvious to Hubs and me that Uniqua was here to stay. M was holding long, meaningful conversations with her. She called her by name and said that she was her best friend. So we put things back on the shelf, so that "Niqua," M's nickname for Uniqua, could come home with us. To our pleasant surprise Uniqua was half price that day as well.

Now, M rarely sleeps without her and misses her when they are separated during school. I do think it is a tad sad for a little girl to claim a mere stuffed toy as her BFF, but since she doesn't actually grasp the BFF concept, I'll relax about it for now.

I will say that when M pronounces her name in that sweet little voice it does sound like a slightly offensive term. What can I do? That is her name and to see the child's love and excitement for her erases any awkwardness.


Next I guess M got cold, cause she figured out this little get up and continually recreated it all afternoon. She used one blankie as her "hat" and one to "wrap me up." Gotta get a pic of that!

Mom to Mom

Whew! Thank God for Mom to Mom. I mean that in it's literal sense. Us women need eachother. Us Christians need eachother. That's the way that God designed us. Today was our 1st real gathering since last week was sort of just introductory. Man, I've missed it. And the girls! Even more than the revival bible study I'm doing I have begun to be convicted by God through this study.

Today we talked about parenting expectations and myths. God hit me between the eyes with the reminder not to overschedule my family...me and/or M. Now how can you over schedule a 2 year old?! Oh, I don't know...maybe Monday is play with Cuz day, Tuesday is school, Wednesday is Mom to Mom, eating out, play with Cuz, eat at church, choir, Thursday is school, Friday is school! And to think that I was jealous that M wasn't going to be able to be in ballet class!

I don't know if I like her being in school 3 days a week, but I have to admit that she really thrives in school. I'm contemplating taking her out of one of the days. I've also contemplating changing my bible study commitments. I love them all, definitely, but monday night is bible study with the gals from Sunday School, wednesday is mom to mom, choir, sunday is church, sunday school, small group. whew! I can't stand being churched to death...but it is a choice. So, I'm having to choose. What is best for my family is priority.

So, please pray for me as I try to reorganize and reschedule this family to God's glory. Believe it or not, I doubt if God is oh so pleased when we give ourselves away to bible study and church.

Revival

So, I'm in this bible study...Seeking Him. It's a bunch of gals about my age and such and we are praying for individual revival. This is really scary and I knew it was, but I had no idea. The wiles are already at work. A gal who had done this study before said to get ready cause in order for us to be ready to receive the revival work that God is obviously working all around us, we have to ready our hearts....like preparing the soil for a harvest. 6 weeks of toiling, and tilling and breaking up the fallow ground! This is painful! It's terribly uncomfortable! I wanna go back to bed and wake up when God is finished, but it doesn't work like that. Unfortunately.

After all that went on in Katrina and the experience that it was, the last thing I need or want is to lose a sense of stability and footing, and yet that is where I am...stepping away from what's comfortable and has gotten me through a very rough time in my life. I accepted the challenge from God this a.m. with great reluctance, looking forward to what will be more of an end result (thought there's never really an end with this growing in Christ stuff), and dreading the process!

He is not holding back. This has been one of the worst days I've had in nearly a year! For reasons I can not say, and many unknown to me, things are kind of turned on their side and I'm in a place of waiting, kind of stuckness. I'd rather be moving forward, but things in life are on hold again. Ugh. So I wait. And I pray. And I ask you to pray too...for me and my family and our emotional and spiritual health. I'm still clinging to God's truth's in his word, but I want to be angry and I want to rebel. Keep praying please.

Blog Funk

So I guess either I'm just too busy or to say it in a more positive way, my life is too full right now to find time for blogging OR I'm just in a blogging funk right now. At any rate, I have found a blog (or two) far more worth your time at this point. PLEASE look into my dear friends Jamie and Aaron Ivey and their blogs as they are beginning their first international adoption. My heart goes out to them as do my prayers and money! In so many ways I'd love to be in their shoes, but I do know that God has His time and His plan. Join so many of us as we act as the community that surrounds them and aids them in raising and creating their family. As it should be with and in the body of Christ! See latest pics of their future son, Dowensky from Haiti.

2nd Anniversary Katrina

For those of you who don't know, I'm a "Katrina" survivor. If you search my blog and find my long story from last year's anniversary, you will see how far I've come AND how much we went through. This year I'm not sad. I had a few people ask me if I was o.k. and how it must be hard to think back. But I discovered that though I do miss the simplicity of the life we had there in New Orleans--AND--the people we had fallen in love with! When I look back, I now think happy thoughts. Gratitude for having enjoyed that time, those people, that life.



God was so good to allow my family to have that experience and though I find myself missing the idea of it as a whole, I do not wish to go back. I wish to continue forward. God has continued my path in this direction for whatever reason and I can't wait to have it revealed one turn at a time. I prefer to think happy thoughts on the 29th of August and happy birthday on the 31st!

My Find!

Look what I found!

It's a Rocking Horse!

No, It's a High Chair!

No, It's both AND only $2!

Nani's Beauty Parlor

M spent the night at Nani's a week or two ago and she came back with pink nails...

And some AMAZING bed head! Hah!

Break Mommy's Heart!

One little monkey jumping on the bed...She got overly excited and rammed her face into our headboard!

A sad lesson learned the hard way.

Mommy's heart is still heavy about it. I know I have caught a glimpse of the heart break of standing back and watching your loved ones make poor choices. Hopefully, she's learned to trust and obey Mommy and Daddy...and in turn, one day she can trust and obey Jesus in the same manner.

Back to High School

I'm writing in response to my bloggy friend's recent post. Head over to Jamie's site. You will not be disappointed.

1. Who was your best friend?
Depended on the year...I moved senior year! Previously, my BFF in A.T.L was Meggie Lowe. We were two peas in a pod at church even thought she was a year younger than me and we went to two totally different schools. Two other BFF's at school were Clara Kim and Joanna Vaughters. They dissected the art of creating the perfect packable sandwich!

In B'ham, my BFF was Robin Taylor. A little crazy, or maybe alot, but I couldn't help but be drawn to that personality!

2. Did you play any sports?
I did cheerleading in 10th grade till I found out it really is like they say.

3. What kind of car did you drive?
When I finally was allowed to drive, it was the majorly handed down blue Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera don't remember what year, but OLD

4. It’s Friday night. Where were you?
likely on a date with some musician type

5. Were you a party animal?
Not in the respect that you likely think of immediately, but know that there was rarely a dull moment with me around

6. Were you considered a flirt?
definitely

7. Were you in the band, orchestra or choir?
both band and choir

8. Were you a nerd?
nah.

9. Were you ever suspended or expelled?
no

10. Can you sing the fight song?
No.

11. Who was your favorite teacher?
Have a horrid memory! I know I loved my AP history teacher in 11th grade. I can see her in my mind's eye.

12. What was your school mascot?
Dunwoody Wildcats and Vestavia Hills Rebels

13. Did you go to the Prom?
Did I go to the prom??? Uh yeah THREE times! Ha ha!

14. If you could go back, would you?
You could NOT pay me enough money to go back to high school!

15. What do you remember most about graduation?
Remember the organizer she was like the graduation Nazi! Geez!

16. Where were you on Senior Skip Day?
At school. I didn't have much of an option. My mom found out about it and made sure I knew there was no skipping

17. Did you have a job your senior year?
Express (clothing store)

18. Where did you go most often for lunch?
Senior Patio

19. Have you gained weight since then?
Yes, but who hasn’t since high school?!

20. What did you do after graduation?
Went to Samford University!

21. What year did you graduate?
1997

22. Who was your Senior Prom Date?
Alex Winston (still have fond memories...of the guy...not the night thank you!)

23. Are you going/did you go to your 10 year reunion?
I'll be so close, but I still can't go! made a commitment to go to my niece's first b-day! I do wish I could go. It's a great place to do vacation!

24. What is your biggest regret in high school?
Not figuring out who I was until summer between 10th and 11th grade! Still, not too many regrets.

Okay … now you jump in and tell me about you in high school!!

I smell a meme! You're it: Beth, Miriam, Kendra, Shelby, Minnah

Works for Me Wednesday!

So they say necessity is the mother of invention. I would definitely agree! I forgot my bib when at a nice restaurant for an after church lunch. Seeing as M was wearing white and her back-up outfit was also white...AND we had ordered spaghetti! She just turned two, so I stripped her dress off and took two cloth napkins, tied them together at two points making a hole for her head and just slipped it on! It was an ingenious moment.

I'm sure you don't have to get you child clothing-less in order for this to be effective!

Also, you could take one of those sticky table topper place mat things and finagle it into a bib. Course if you can remember one of those, you should be able to remember a bib! ha!

I forget bibs all the time!

WINNERS!

Well, as cliche as it sounds...everyone that gave me a suggestion is a winner, cause I have greatly depleted my chicken finger supply! Only half a bag left!

I had trouble choosing! As far as ease goes and yum factor, I loved the salad way. There are so many ways you can go with that as far as various toppings and dressings! It's just so good. Now, as far as taste! BiG Taste...that was the chicken fried chicken suggestion! THat was a big hit across the board! It took more work, but was so yummy!

So, since there is a tie, then there are two winners! Horray for Kendra at Tres Alejandros and Nico at NicoWorld!

I will be mailing out a goody pack on Thursday to Nico provided I get your contact information. Also for your sewing center order...

Kendra I will contact you personally since I know you. feel free to contact me if you like. You too get a custom something from my sewing center.

Yeah! Winners!

Cha-Ching!

Hallelujah. #2 has made it in the potty. Clearly this is a small step because M is still "scared" of the whole #2 in the potty concept. But her being so bright and verbal has made for interesting new conversation! She told the man at the cash register today that she made a brown poo-poo in the potty today! Alright! Well, at least it was brown. How much more interesting would it have made things had she given it another color?!

A humongous step in the right direction, but a long way to go in this arena. Still I'm very proud of my little one. She even went on the "big potty" in nursery last night. She's go step #1 down. She still has accidents, but that's pretty normal. One uncontrollable one today. She tried, she really did. She just waited too late.

This adds a whole new dimension to doing things out though. In some ways I can see how convenient the diaper is! Today at ALDI, she told me she needed to go on the potty. I didn't even know if they had a restroom. Thank goodness for pull-ups, cause they had one, but I didn't find it quickly. We sat on it anyway. It's a memory training thing.

Just sharing the good news!

Chicken Fried Chicken

Last night we tried the "Chicken Fried Chicken" recipe suggested by Kendra at Tres Alejandros. My husband ate it up! I'm actually amazed! It was actually quite good. I made sweet tea (a treat cause I always just forget to make it), rice and white breakfast type gravy, and green beans. I wanted to make biscuits or rolls, but ran out of town as we had choir last night. Big spread of rice with the chicken nugget/fingers on top, and pour the white gravy over it all. Pretty darn good!

Yes, Miriam, I added your b'fast burrito to the list! gonna make in on Saturday morn while hubs is here to enjoy it. I wanna make Kendra's suggestion tomorrow or Sunday am with the sister schubert rolls. I saved some gravy for that very recipe. Gotta get the sister schuberts today at the store.

So the contest is winding down. We've done the Chicken parmesian thing before, but we may try it again just for refreshing. I'm going to sort through the recipes and make sure that we've tried them all and then post my decision! Look for it Monday! Hopefully I will be through with all those breaded nuggets! Ugh. At least this month there weren't any listed on the Angel Food order form. Hallelujah!

Been out with the Flu

Lovely beginning to my week...I go the flu. Stomach flu that I acquired from working in the nursery, or just food poisoning from the Mexi restaurant I ate at Sunday night. Not sure, but I'm glad that's over. My mom was generous enough to take me to her house and "nurse" me back to health.

Yesterday, feeling significantly better and it being my day off from keeping Cuz, I tried to take care of a few overdue things on my list. I went to the store and got a new microwave. Ours has been smoking. (There are some things worth buying new.) I got M some "big girl panties" and training pants! And me some long overdue undergarments as well--what a special treat! (And like I said, LONG OVERDUE!)

August is no eating out month. Now we aren't being too stringent, but it is a principle that we are trying to reset in our brains. July we ate out way too often. In fact, to celebrate the end of our eating our rampage we went out to eat last night! Ha! I was still trying to recuperate from my flu, so Hubs, M, and I went to Panera and used our coupons to have something light (and for the Chicken Noodle soup!)

After eating out we went to Target! I haven't been just for fun in a long time! I used quite a bit of self control and only managed to buy M one pair of shoes and myself one pair of shoes...on clearance of course! BUT...it was then and there that I decided that this is the store I want my b-day giftcard from. What fun! So I told Jason of course.

And on that note, we have reached the beginning of my birthday month! Yippee! Only 30 more days.

Contest Ends

The "What to do with all these Chicken Fingers" Contest is officially closed. I have tried numerous recipes. I still have a few to try, so I will finish that up this week and announce the winner on Monday! Can't wait! I have quite a package put together...And for your personal sewing options...I'll have to get the winner's "order!" My camera is really acting up, so if I post anymore pics (food or otherwise) it'll be via camera phone!

Potty Time

We're potty training over here in our little neck of the woods. In fact, we really haven't hit it hard cause of the chaos that has turned out to be summer! But, typically M is interested in trying or "practicing" at least once every evening! We're discovering the trick for her is being naked. I know that concept is not the most acclaimed way to patty train you child, but it works rather well around here. Of course that's during the day while we are at home...what'd you think? I drag my kid out in public without clothes?!

Yesterday we had 4 potty successes! Each time there were 2 fairly back to back! The biggest success I would say was when M (making the I need to tee tee face) said "no tee tee ing in the bath!" So I asked if she wanted to get out and go on the potty. She actually said yes...and then went! I was pretty impressed! I know that the next logical step is potty training "panties" which will be just as effective as being naked. I must admit that I fear the #2 part of this training. M is already quite cognizant of the fact that she will be getting a My Lovely Pony the first several times she goes #2 on the potty. (That's the $1 version of My Little Pony--of which she knows no difference).

Still yesterday she pulled her diaper off without my knowing so she could practice going potty, but at some point had to go a little #2! Ooops! A smudge on the floor! Luckily she tried to hold it...so the mess was minimal, but oh I dread it!

We'll hit this harder when there are less distractions in the house. Cuz may be vacationing at the end of the summer, so that would be perfect. He tends to get really mad when she's in the potty and he can't come in. Not to mention when we are all out and about together, he tries to flush the potty while she's still trying to go! That is a little unnerving I can imagine.

Ahhh. The fun times of potty training! More to report on that I'm sure!