Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Offering Hope in the Midst of Chaos

If you haven't been living under a rock the past week or two, you know our country is in some mass chaos financially. You may be worried about it and wondering what will happen to you. You may be worried about something else going on in your life.

I came across this verse today and wanted to share it in hope that it would bring someone comfort:

"Hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has?"
Romans 8:24 NIV


I LOVE this verse! It is so encouraging. Keep hoping. Keep trusting God.

Blessings!

There are those who look at things the way they are, and ask why...
I dream of things that never were, and ask
why not?
-Robert F Kennedy

Monday, September 29, 2008

"Mine!"

Yep! Asher said that today for the first time. He didn't want Tristan to have either of the footballs, so he blurted out, "MINE!" Don't you know I was proud of that?! How do all kids manage to learn that word?

All I know is that it has begun. Life will never be the same...
On another note, check out his hair. Can you tell he just got out of bed??? I love this kid!

Finally...Beach Pictures

Ok, so I only got two. I was bad about taking pictures until Saturday night, and then the batteries on my camera died. MAJOR bummer! Another bummer is that I don't have a picture with Michelle in it (because she was shopping when we had someone take the group shot), and Beth isn't in it because she couldn't make it Saturday night. Very sad! They are two beautiful ladies (you wouldn't even believe) who made the beach weekend special. I wish I had a shot of them.

Anyway, we had a blast at the beach a couple of weeks ago. A weekend at the beach, with the girls, was just what I needed. Illy (and her sweet hubby, Josh) so graciously offered their condo (BEAUTIFUL) to us for the weekend. It was the perfect place to stay with an amazing view of the ocean. I SO wish I had a shot of the view!

It was so much fun catching up with all the girls, reminiscing about the old days back at Troy State. There are many things we remember that we all probably wish we could forget, but there are so many more wonderful memories of fun times together. These girls mean the world to me. It doesn't matter how much time passes between phone calls, visits, or trips, our relationships never skip a beat. It truly is a blessing.
Here's a shot of Jenn. Can you even tell she's pregnant in this picture? Totally unfair! She's due for induction in like two or three weeks. Seriously...not fair! :)Becky, I am so glad we were able to room together at the beach. Catching up with you was something I really looked forward to. In my life, you will always count as one of my very best friends. I know that I can always be totally real with you, without judgment. We've been through a lot together, and I am so thankful for you and your friendship. You are a blessing!!!

Ellen, what a joy to be able to ride down with you. I think it's the longest we've ever been able to talk one-on-one (minus the kids). You are such a sweet, kind, and giving person. I know that God has so much planned for you and Daniel, and I can't wait to see it unfold! I am thankful for our time together and to future lunches in the Ham!

Illy, my sweet sweet Illy. What can I say about you? I just love you so! You are such a humble, funny, and caring girl. Hearing your laugh always makes me smile. Seeing you with Reagan (sp? SO sorry if I got it wrong) and hearing your stories about her brings joy to my heart. You are a fantastic mother, and I am so proud of/for you!!! Thank you for being so generous and for offering your condo to us.

Jenn, you have and will always be so dear to me. On the way down, I was thinking of all the fun we used to have in Troy and with your parents in Montgomery. I thought back to your dad's "paychecks for being your friend". I thought about your mom and how selfless she was...how she would drive all the way to the beach just to check us into our hotels during spring break.
I miss all our times together. I wish we lived closer.
I loved hearing your stories about Ryleigh and about baby Addison.
You have overcome so much. I admire your drive with your job, your passion for your children, and your ability to overcome. You are an amazing girl. I hope we'll be able to see and talk to each other more than we have lately.

Michelle, wow! You look AMAZING! I need to get on your fitness and beauty regime. You truly look like a baseball player's wife. :) It was great catching up with you and seeing how God has transformed your heart and your life. What a testament to His power! I admire you and am so proud of you!!! I hope it won't be another 7 or so years before I see you again!

Beth, what an adorable pregnant momma you are! I've missed you so! I am so glad that you have found such an amazing husband and all that God is doing in your life. I can't wait to meet that sweet baby!!!

Holly and Stace, we sure missed ya'll!!! Next trip, you'll definitely have to be there!!!

I love you all, ladies. I know some of you don't read my blog (I just can't imagine why not), but I'll give you shout-outs anyway. I feel so blessed that God led you into my life. I am SO blessed...blessed beyond measure. You're in my thoughts and in my prayers. May God bless you all!!!

Oh, and you're welcome! I didn't post a swimsuit picture of myself just to spare you. Again, you're welcome!

Something's Wrong With This Picture

Saturday was a big day for our family. We had bunches going on...
The day started with a soccer game, followed by lunch at Chick-fil-A, a trip to the Whistle Stop Festival where Channing was working, and then of course, SEC COLLEGE FOOTBALL!
While at the festival, I was able to listen to some of the Auburn/Tennessee game, but once it was over, I actually got to go home and watch the end.

Then...the BIG game...the Alabama/Georgia game. It was HUGE at our house because Channing is a big Georgia fan, and I, as you probably already know, am a big Bama fan. The house was sure to be filled with tension. You already know how the game turned out , so I'll just tell you more about the festival and Chick-fil-A.

While we were at Chick-fil-A, Tristan was sporting his Bama t-shirt and Georgia hat (we try to be fair and balanced...like Fox News). A lady eating saw him and made the comment, "Something's wrong with this picture." I explained to her our situation, and she said, "Someone's not going to be happy at your house tonight." Prophetic statement, perhaps? Nah, just stating the obvious.

Here's my cute little confused fan (oh, and he pulled for Bama, if you're wondering. It's only a matter of time, though, before he makes the switch):
The back view:
Asher was a straight up Bama fan. Roll Tide! I love to hear him say it. Although he may say "Roll Tide!", he says "football" whenever he hears the word "Georgia" or sees a Georgia "G" or a bulldog. It's the funniest thing. We didn't train him to do that. He just knows that usually when we're talking about Georgia, we're talking football.
He had so much fun in the jumping bean at the festival.
One more shot of my sweet Georgia/Alabama fan:
I'm probably a terrible mom for posting this, but it's just the funniest picture. Check out Asher's feet...pre-fall!
Saturday was a super great day!!!

Sunday, September 28, 2008

Sad News

I was so sad to hear the news of Paul Newman's passing. I had no idea he was battling cancer. I pray that God will comfort his family and those who mourn him.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T...

...find out what it means to me!

ROLL TIDE!!! We did it! Bama beat Georgia...on their turf...during their big blackout!!! How cool was that game?! I have never seen a half like that first half. I was speechless.

Yesterday afternoon, before the game, I took the boys to the Whistle Stop Festival in Irondale. Channing was working, we had just finished soccer, and I thought they would have a lot of fun out there. While out there, I talked to a man working at the church behind our booth. He was wearing a Bama t-shirt, so we started talking SEC football (my current favorite subject). He told me there was going to be an upset in Athens. I told him I sure hoped so but that I was nervous. This guy didn't waiver. He was convinced there was going to be an upset. That's when he told me the news of Florida's fate...they'd lost 31-30...to OLE MISS. What?! NO WAY!!! That's what I told him. I thought he was surely trying to punk me. NOPE. They really lost to Ole Miss. Florida. The team I predicted would win it all this year. I was stunned. I was encouraged too. This guy almost seemed to speak prophetically about the Alabama/Georgia game. It was going to happen.

Then the game came on. It happened. Alabama looked AMAZING (until the third quarter anyway. That was a bad quarter). I won't go into specifics. I'm sure you watched it. If not, you should be ashamed! It was quite the game. One major highlight for me was seeing the aerial view of the stadium. It was so cool seeing all the black with the white shirts standing out. It immediately brought this verse to mind: "No one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he puts it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light" Luke 8:16. I don't know why. I wasn't "trying to make the game spiritual" as my friend John said. The verse just came to mind when I saw all the white among the sea of black. It just looked really cool.

I won't go into how everyone picked Alabama to lose, "They're good, but this just isn't there year. They're not ready." I won't go into Mark Richt's comments that Alabama hadn't been tested yet this season. That they had played pretty terrible teams. I won't go into the fact that people think all the Bammers are crazy and unrealistic. We all know that happened.

We went to Athens, Georgia. We played a #3 team; a great team. We played between the hedges, and we led the whole game. I am so proud of my team! I am proud to be a Crimson Tide fan. I am happy to see that they are getting the respect they deserve. I know there's a whole lot of season left, and who knows what will happen? For now, though, I'm going to bask in a season of being 5-0 and being ranked second in the nation. This is a pretty great feeling.

ROLL TIDE!!! OH, and props to Georgia. Now that we've played them, I hope they make a massive comeback. GO DAWGS!

Saturday, September 27, 2008

Gameday

I'm watching ESPN Gameday and wondering if there are any Alabama fans there? Seriously. I haven't seen one! Brandi and Shane are going. They may be representing all our fans. :)

I have to share my favorite Gameday sign:

"Nick, we need gas money!"

HILARIOUS!!! I wish I were that creative!

ROLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL TIDE ROLL!!!

Friday, September 26, 2008

My Insecurities are Showing

Ok, I've had lots of time to think about the game. I can't stop thinking about it. I wish I could say I whole-heartedly believe that Alabama's going to win this one. I mean, I want to have faith. I love my team. I really really do.

Realistically, I just don't think we've got this one. Reason being...we're coming back from a road game, heading to another road game. Georgia has the home field advantage. They're playing our strength and conditioning coach's comments about their team "heading to a *#!* funeral" over and over and over again. They have Knowshon Moreno. I mean, realistically, it just looks like they've got this one.

We have some key players too, it's just that our defense is what's strongest. I just don't know if JPW and our offensive line can stand up to Georgia's defense. That would mean that we would have to depend completely on our defense, and I don't know if our defense will be able to conquer Georgia's offense. I just don't believe that Matthew Stafford and Knowshon Moreno will let that happen. Sure, Bama's seen Knowshon. They'll try to cover him. How long will it last, though? I mean, the guy jumps over people!

Georgia's looked a little questionable, like in the South Carolina game. However, I just don't think they were pumped up about that one. They believed the hype about them and went in and didn't give it their all. This game is different. Everyone's watching (except the Saturday shoppers, of course. But even they'll know what's going on for this game). Everyone, and I mean everyone (except Alabama fans) is picking Georgia to win.

In order to win, these things need to happen:

  • Corso needs to pick Georgia...VERY important.
  • JPW is going to have to step it up. He can't get scared like he did last year.
  • The line is going to have to protect JPW. He needs all the time he can get.
  • Georgia needs to channel their insecurities. I mean, Troy showed up against them last year between the hedges. Georgia still managed to win, but they didn't look hot. We need that Georgia team to show up (or the one that played South Carolina a couple of weeks ago).
  • Glenn Coffee is going to have to be on his A game. This is his chance to shine. Knowshon who?
  • Javier Arenas needs to have access to the ball. Arkansas tried to keep it from him. I'm hoping this week, he'll shine.
  • Alabama's going to have to come out strong, from the beginning. We need to take an early lead. We all know Mark Richt is good at turning things around at half-time. We need to get as much of a head start as possible.
We need not get intimidated by the whole blackout thing. Honestly, the blackout is the least of my worries. I mean, it was cool last year, but this year, I just think it's silly. Of course, that is totally my opinion.

This weekend, nobody's picking us. I take that back, if you listen to the Finebaum show, lots of people are picking us. Those people just all happen to be super country (to put it most kindly) Bammer fans who have already booked their tickets to the National Championship. I, however, have not booked mine. I think next year is going to be our year. Of course, we'll be dealing with a new quarterback. That's never fun. We may not win it all this year, we may not win it all next year, but it's coming. Our day is coming. We've been down, but don't count us out. Next year is going to be a good year. I still believe this year is going to be a good year. I just hope that they don't lose confidence in themselves if they lose this weekend. I've seen it happen (uh, hello, last year), and it's not pretty. I don't think the Sabinator wants that either.

Bama, here's to you. I hope you prove my insecurities wrong. Maybe Georgia's not as good as they, and everyone else, thinks they are. I, honestly, don't think they're as good as people say. I think they'll lose a couple this season (big upsets to watch for...Florida, LSU, and Auburn. I think they'll lose two of those, even though Auburn's been looking pretty bad. They always play UGA tough). Maybe you'll be the one to upset their National Championship hopes, Bama. I sure hope so!

The bottom line is this, this is SEC football. Anything can happen. On that line, how about that USC/Oregon State game last night. What in the world?!? USC looked pitiful. Another one bites the dust!

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Thursday's Random Thoughts

Good day, all! Time for another weekly installment of my random thoughts. So here goes:

David Blaine completely freaks me out. I mean, he really really does; not because of his whole hanging upside down thing. It's all his other stuff. He gives me the creeps.

What happens to your (my) spelling as you get older? I used to be a fantastic speller. I mean, I wasn't like a national spelling b winner or anything, but I could spell normal words pretty well. These days, I'm struggling. I totally forget how to spell everyday words. What is the deal with that?

This past weekend, on the way to and from the beach, I noticed numerous political bumper stickers stuck on cars. They drive me CRAZY! Why are these people sticking political stickers to their bumpers?! How they going to get them off without scratching up their paint? If you have to have a bumper sticker, people, stick it on your back windshield, not your bumper. I mean, if your candidate loses, you're stuck with a big fat McCain sticker on your bumper (or Obama...I hope it's Obama that loses). Bumper stickers (NOT magnets) drive me crazy. They're too permanent. Please, opt for a magnet. I mean, how must the people who have John Kerry bumper stickers feel today? I think they feel embarrassed. Yep, I do. If they don't feel that way, they probably should. Use a magnet...please...

I have a patient that constantly tells Asher he's going to be a garbage man when he grows up. I find that kind of strange. I know she says it because he always digs in the garbage, but I find it strange all the same. It's not that I have something against garbage men. I mean, I am super thankful that they relieve me of my trash each week. It's just that in our household, college isn't an option. It's a must-go. So if he goes to college and decides to be a garbage man, I guess he won't necessarily be using his higher education. Then I'll have to say to him what my mom always says to me, "You got that teaching degree for nothing. Why did you even go?" Yeah, so I'm probably not going to encourage the whole "garbage man" thing.

Facebook updates kind of crack me up. I mean, people like sneeze and rush over to the computer to update their facebook... "Sally is wondering how I could sneeze so many times." Then two minutes later, "Sally is getting ready to think about leaving the computer." Two minutes later, "Sally is contemplating global warming." Seriously, people are WAY obsessed with Facebook updates.

Speaking of Facebook, I know some people who are ALWAYS on. Every time I pull it up for two seconds, the same people are online. STRANGE. That always makes me think, maybe they're on it as infrequently as I am, and they just happen to be on at the same time, every time, that I am. Maybe they think I am an obsessed Facebooker. Hmmmm...I wonder.

I am so thankful for the relationships God has brought into my life. He really is so faithful. Spending this past weekend at the beach with some of my dearest and oldest friends reminded me of that. Going to college and entering rush, I never realized just how close my pledge sisters would be to me. We can go days, weeks, months without talking, yet we can always pick right up where we left off, just as if we just saw each other. That is a true blessing. Seeing how lives have been changed, what a blessing and gift from God! I love you girls!!!

Why is it that when I think I'm using my best and funniest material, I get the most blank stares? Seriously. I have a knack for sticking my foot not only in my mouth but way down my throat. It's a problem.

The Alabama/Georgia game is TWO DAYS AWAY! I am so nervous. I SO want to win, but if we lose, I'll be ok (DON'T LOSE, THOUGH, BAMA. I'm not giving my permission to lose or anything~I know the team really values my opinion). Thing is, if we lose to Georgia, they HAVE GOT to beat Auburn. Then I'll be totally fine. I mean, I would much rather lose to a #3 team than a #22 team. And I can stomach losing if that means Auburn does too. Sad, but true.

V8 Fusion is some good juice. It really is delish!

Asher has been a screaming mimi this week (don't ask me what it means. I don't know. I've heard it said, though). He has screamed and cried three days straight, mostly in the afternoons. This is day four. I'm hoping and praying that today is better. My patience is wearing thin. THAT'S why four children ages five and under would never work for me. I admire those of you who swing it, though. :)

Today is MiMi's birthday (Channing's mom). I am so proud of Tristan. He remembered. It was among his first words this morning, "Mommy, today's Thursday {They're working on days of the week big time at school right now. He's really caught on. He totally gets it}). It's MiMi's birthday." So we called her and wished her a happy happy day. I hope it's great for her. I'll be honest, when I first got married, adjusting to in-laws was tough for me. It wasn't so much that they were the problem. I think it's just that any time you have to adjust to a new family and their ways, which are often very different from your own and your family's, it's tough. The cure for me? My two boys. Seeing how much they love my boys and how much my boys love them...it totally makes my day. We are SO blessed to have such great family. I am super thankful for MiMi and PaPa. She doesn't read my blog, but I'l give her a shout-out anyway. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MIMI!

FAll weather is so glorious! I am LOVIN' it!

Has anyone else seen the new NKOTB (for those who didn't grow up in the 80's, that's New Kids on the Block) video? It's incredibly embarrassing. I really feel sorry for them. I mean, they're like 30's and 40's, and they're called "New Kids". That's just wrong. They're video with their shirts off and trying to be sexy, it's just wrong. It's all wrong. I saw it on E News one night. I wish I hadn't.

ROLL TIDE!!! I sure hope they show up to play. JPW, you can do it. Don't be scared.

Recycled toilet paper...bad, really really bad. My not-so-wise CVS deal from last week. I've learned my lesson.

That's all I got for now, folks. You got any random thoughts? I would love to see them. You can leave me a couple in my comments, or even better, you can do your own list. If you do, let me know. Peace out!


Wednesday, September 24, 2008

A Little Smack Talk From My Mom

My mom's at it again. She's doing her pre-game trash-talking. She sent me this smack talk this morning. Check it out. It's pretty funny:

I hear the reason GA is wearing black Sat is that they're preparing for their funeral, and AL fans going to the game are encouraged to drive with their headlights on in observance of the GA funeral procession.


3 Days until the TIDE and DAWGS play!!! ROLL TIDE!!!

A Morning in the Life of a Scatter-Brained Mom

Ok, so this morning I roll over to look at the clock, and it's 8:15. Yes, 8:15!!! Tristan has to be at school at 9, so I immediately jump up and jump in the shower. I rush around getting ready, getting the kids clothes ready, and preparing breakfast. I get the kids to the table, give them their food and dash off to get dressed. The whole time Tristan's eating, I'm nagging, "Hurry up, Tristan. You have to get dressed. Hurry."

Ok, so he finishes eating, gets on his orange monkey shirt (very important fact) and plaid shorts. I get Asher out of his chair, he's got milk all over his shirt, but I have no time to change him. I've got to get Tristan to school.

I rush the boys out to the car, pull into the car line (at almost THE very last minute). That's when I see it...a little boy in a red shirt. It hit me like a ton of bricks...

TRISTAN WAS SUPPOSED TO WEAR A RED SHIRT TODAY! AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!!!

At this point, I feel like a horrible mom for forgetting and for knowing that my sweet little boy is going to walk into his class wearing an orange shirt while all his friends are wearing red...NOT GOOD. So as we pull up, I tell him, "Tristan, Mommy was supposed to put you in red. I'm going to run home and get you a red shirt, then I'll run back and give it to you. I'm SO sorry! I'll be right back...".

I call Channing and tell him I'm going to be extra late, I rush home, run upstairs and search for a red shirt. Of course, the first thing I find is one of his red Georgia jerseys...during ALABAMA/GEORGIA week. What to do, what to do, what to do? I mean, I want my kid to pull for the Tide and the Tide only this week (ok, not just the Tide...the Vols too).
I ended up having to look past myself and my wishes, grab the jersey and a pair of black shorts (I mean, how bad would a red jersey look with tan, orange, and brown plaid shorts?).

I fly back up to the school. I get Asher out of his seat and notice a super foul smell. Greaaaat! I run in, and as I'm passing chapel, I see his class. Since I don't want to barge in there yelling, "Tristan! Tristan, I have your red shirt!", I give his clothes to the secretary, who is pretty amused that I am so worried about him having a red shirt (it's traumatic for a four year old, though). As I'm leaving, I try not to cry. I mean, I totally screwed up. But nevertheless, it was over, he had his clothes, and I could head to work. Now I had Asher's dirty diaper to tackle.


So I pull up to the office and head straight back to the bathroom. I pull his pants down, and much to my surprise, he has a mammoth, disgusting #2. I mean, it was BAD! It was all over his little body and clothes. Oh yeah. Gross. And guess what?! I didn't have a change of clothes.
So AGAIN, I had to head back home to get him changed. How frustrating! This time, I did it right, though. I got him a Bama t-shirt. I mean, the boys needed some balance. If one school is represented, the other must be too.

Ok, so this all happened by 10:00 this morning. How's your morning going?

Monday, September 22, 2008

Are They Scared?

Last night, as I was getting ready to catch up on some much needed sleep, my hubby ran into the room to tell me his exciting news...

"Georgia's doing a blackout next week!"

To which my response was...

"They're scared."

I mean, why else the blackout? They're scared. Fess up, Dawgs. The Tide has you a little nervous, as well they should. They've has been looking pretty good so far this year.

If you don't know much about college football, specifically SEC football, even more specifically Georgia college football, a blackout is when the Georgia team, coaches, and fans wear black. You may be wondering why this is a big deal. Well, it's because they always wear red (or white if it's an away game). They pulled this stunt for the first time last year (as far as I'm aware) against Auburn. Guess what? It worked. Check out a picture from last year's blackout against the Burn:
Now it's time for me to fess up...

I'm a little scared too.

I'm not scared of the black jersey gimmick. I'm a little scared because I know Georgia is going to preprare well for this game. I'm a little scared because this is week two for us on the road. I'm a little scared because...I just am. But that's ok. I'm banking on this being a great game. This will be the biggest game the Bama and Georgia teams have played thus far this season. I really hope they both come with their A game. If they do, you won't want to miss this game. Saturday, ESPN will be there for College Gameday (Bama's second this season). I can't wait to watch!!!

5 DAYS UNTIL GAME DAY!!!

ROLL TIDE!!!

Happy Fall Ya'll!

My absolute favorite time of year!

Friday, September 19, 2008

Don't Mind Me...

...I'm just heading to the beach!I hope you have a great weekend!!!

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Thursday's Random Thoughts

Hello again! I'm back for my weekly installment of random thoughts. Take a peek inside my brain. Let me warn you...it's pretty deep. ;) :

Was the SNL spoof sexist? Who cares?! It was funny. It wasn't meant to be a debate or an endorsement. It was just meant to bring some humor to the presidential race, the biggest thing going in the country right now. I mean, seriously. Who cares? Let's move on and talk about the issues. Let SNL be what it was...funny.

I think Sarah Palin is the only one in the presidential race who really seems to have an idea of how to really reform Washinton. I'll take just about whoever is running with her in the White House, even John McCain. Many ask if it's ok to vote for the lesser of two evils...in my opinion...YES, absolutely. I wish it didn't have to be that way, but unfortunately it is.

CANNOT wait to see Auburn and LSU play this weekend. Don't know or really care who wins. I just know that one of those teams is goin' down. Who will it be?! I'm giddy with excitement. My pick...The Burn's goin' down.

Two weeks until Bama and Georgia play. I hope it's a good game. It usually is. CAN'T wait to tune in. Did Channing and I make the right choice by deciding not to go? Only time will tell.

Do people really order all that junk you see you infomercials? I mean, does someone really want that huge cross-over-the-chest purse/satchel that will fit a small country in it...for $19.99? Really?

Oooooooo...gotta call Bare Minerals and delay my next order. The make-up is lasting longer than I thought. What's that phone number again??? I guess I'll have to stay up late and watch for the infomercial.

When should I go back to teaching? I definitely know now that it is something I feel called to do again. But when? When should I get back into it? Hmmm.... I'll keep praying for the answer.

What is it with the competitive moms? "Sally counted to thirty today and recited Psalm 23 verbatim." "Man! Norman can only count to 20. I gotta get on that. I'm practicing that with him tomorrow!" Come on. Give it a rest. Don't pressure your kid just because he isn't doing what your best friend's kid is doing.

Barbara Walters...not a fan. Do you think people really believe you, Barbara, when you tell them you won't share which candidate you're pulling for? Do you really think we can't figure it out? I mean, you didn't even give John McCain the opportunity to answer the questions you asked him. Come on! Let's be fair. If you ask a question, wait and listen for the answer.

Why would ANYONE think it's ok to abort a baby in the seventh month of pregnancy? Why? And if you do, how could any doctor allow the baby to die if it comes out of the womb alive? SO many people desperately want babies. I just don't get it. You've carried the baby for seven months! Why back out now? Have the baby, give it away. Fine. Bless someone else. I just don't get it. Women's rights? Give me a break!

Why are so many people protesting Oprah? I am a republican, and still I don't get it. What is with you people? She's told you from the beginning that she is an avid supporter of Barack Obama. Why would she have Sarah Palin on her show? Why would you want her to? It makes absolutely no sense to me. I'm not a huge Oprah fan anymore (NOT because of the presidential election), but give her a break. You guys are being unfair and ridiculous.

Two days until some BIG games!!! ROLL TIDE!

Two days until I go to the beach!! YEA! I get to spend the weekend with some of my dearest friends. How fun will that be?! It's been far too long since I've gotten to hang out with these girls...kid-free, distraction free (well, except for football). FABULOUS!

If this zit on my face gets any bigger or stay any longer, I'll have to give it a name and start charging it rent. I mean, seriously!

Why do random people feel the need to tell my boys that they're going to hate their curly hair one day? It happens all the time. Is it really necessary to plant that seed in their brains? I think not. I immediately have to tell them that they have beautiful hair and that they are blessed to have their curls. They will not hate their curls. I hope not, anyway. Their daddy doesn't. I love their curls!

Tristan likes to play "Satan and Jesus". I'm usually Satan (as per his wishes). We fight. He pulls out his sword of the Spirit. Jesus always wins (sometimes I have to remind him of that when he wants to let me win). Is that weird? Do other people play "Satan and Jesus"?

What about you? Any random thoughts? If so, leave some for me in my comments or do your own post of random comments on your blog and leave me a comment to let me know. I LOVE knowing the strange things other people think about. It makes me feel slightly normal.


Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Daddy's Boy

Asher definitely is. It is amazing to me just how much of a daddy's boy he is. Tristan is and has always been a momma's boy. Don't get me wrong. He loves his daddy; however, I have a special soft spot with him. Asher, on the other hand, goes to daddy for most things...comfort for boo boos, to tattle on injustices brought on by his mommy and brother, and to coax outside.

Yesterday, I was feeding him lunch and he was being incredibly defiant. He wouldn't listen to correction and continued to tug and fight for his way. At that point, I disciplined him. Oh my goodness! Talk about wanting his daddy. He started yelling, "Daddy! DAAAAAAAAAADDEEEEEEEEEEE!" That's usually how it goes. The same happens when he falls down and gets a boo boo. I reach for him, and he reaches for his daddy.
This has been a shock for me. It was always the other way around with Tristan. I just kind of always thought boys would always pick their mommies. What a rude awakening! :)

I'm proud for Channing, though.

Really, I am. I am.

Yep, sure am.

Hmph!

PLEASE PRAY!

I just got a phone call from a patient's grandmother. She was calling for her daughter. She said her grandson (three years old) would miss several appointments because his dad was killed in a car accident yesterday.

My heart shattered! I just can't believe it. This sweet little boy has lost his father. His sweet mother lost her husband. She just had a baby a week and a half ago. So now she's left with a newborn and her three year old son to raise without her husband. I cannot imagine what she must be going through. PLEASE pray for this dear sweet family. Honestly, I cannot even begin to imagine the agony she must be feeling.

I only met W's dad once. He and D came to the x-ray report to see their son's x-rays. He was willing to do whatever it took to make sure his son got better. You could tell just how much his family meant to him. He will definitely be missed.

Thank you for your prayers for this sweet family. The viewing is tonight at 6 and the funeral tomorrow at 10.

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

One-Issue Voter?

I'm not, but even if I were, this would be enough.
My friend, Donna, shared her insight into the up-coming presidential election. She asks the question, as Christians, is it ok to be a one-issue voter in this election? Check it out:

Is it narrow-minded to be a one-issue voter?

For Women Only

A couple of weeks ago, I started a new women's Bible study (new to me, anyway). It's called, "For Women Only~what you need to know about the inner lives of men". You can see the cover of the book to the left.
Can I just say, I highly recommend this study. I, personally, am doing the video/workbook study with a group of women at a church here in town. However, if you're interested in the material and don't know if you have this study going on near you, you can buy her book by the same name. It is really great!

The study focuses on the woman's role in understanding and supporting her husband (or significant other) in becoming all that God intends him to be. In this study, Shaunti gives practical tips, drawn from biblical principles and extensive research with men, to be put into practice with your day-to-day relationship with your husband. I have found her insights to be incredibly surprising at times (he really thinks that?), convicting (is that the signal I was sending when I said/did that?), encouraging (that's how I can respond more appropriately.) and enlightening (that's what God expects of me?).

I'll share an example or two. One lightbulb that went off in my head was when Shaunti shared the verse from Ephesians 5:33: "To sum up, each one of you is to love his wife as himself, and the wife is to respect her husband." She pointed out that in today's society, we are taught that respect is something that must be earned. Respect isn't something that we just go around handing out. I mean, none of us wants to be a doormat, right? However, that's not what God says when it comes to being a wife. It is a direct command. She said that many women love their husbands and think that that is enough; however, the verse never says, "Women love your husbands." God already knew we would do that. It's in our nature. Men are told to love us. We are told to respect them.

She shares how many men feel more respected at work than in their own homes. In my reading today, Shaunti shared that "if a man is not convinced that his woman thinks he is the greatest, he will tend to seek affirmation elsewhere." That may come in many different forms: spending more time at work, chatting up an admiring female, watching or playing sports, or even pornography (according to many experts).

She shares the story of Job and how he went from widely respected and honored to mocked and ridiculed. She also showed how it affected him. It has been eye-opening for me. This is a study I wish I'd had earlier. I've learned ways I've shown disrespect without meaning to. I recognize it in my marriage in other marriages I see, and it can have devastating effects.

1 Peter 3:1-2 says, "In the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any of them are disobedient to the Word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives, as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior."

LOVE that!

I have so much more I want to share about this study...like the quiz she has for women about how we feel about things our husband do and say. And she has a quiz for husbands (I was way surprised by some of the answers). However, for now I'll just leave it at highly recommending this book or study. Know that it will cause you to look at things from a one-sided point of view. It absolutely doesn't mean that your husband doesn't have work to do himself; rather, it shows you what you can do to make things better in your marriage or relationship.

I'll share one more of Shaunti's quotes and a verse:

"On the home front, men judge themselves and feel that others also judge them based on the happiness and respect of their wives. Even the simples words of appreciation will translate into a sense of security for your man."

And the verse:

Love must be without hypocricy. Detest evil; cling to what is good. Show family affection to one another with brotherly love. Outdo one another in showing honor." Romans 12:9-10

Abortion Survivor

A friend sent me this video this morning, and it is a DEFINITE MUST SEE. It will take five minutes and 12 seconds of your life, but I guarantee you, it's worth it. Check it out:



Just in case the video stops working, here's the link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tgd6tvLub9E

Monday, September 15, 2008

Marvelous Monday

Today was a great day, a really great day. First off, the weather was glorious! Nice, cool fall weather...next to rainy days, my absolute favorite weather. Channing and I started our small group, The Bait of Satan, tonight with some really neat people. It's an awesome curriculum, and we're looking forward to a fun semester with new friends. AND today I was able to confirm that I'm going to the beach for a girls' weekend. Woo hoo! I am looking SO forward to it!!! I'm going to be hanging out at the beach with some of my dearest and most beloved friends. These ladies not only are my sorority sisters, but they are best friends that, no matter how much time goes by between phone calls and visits, we always manage to pick up right where we left off. A weekend with them is just what I need!!!
So anyway, today has been a wonderful wonderful day. I hope your Monday was just as great. If not, I hope and pray that tomorrow is better!
Blessings!

Sunday, September 14, 2008

Walk the Line

Today's Church of the Highlands service was one of the best services I have ever attended. I don't know if it's because the sermon centered around one of my all time favorite movies, Walk the Line, or if it was because it had some focus on the life of Johnny Cash (who is on my list of people I look forward to meeting in heaven), but it was a fantastic service. It was incredibly inspiring. During the message, I feel like I got some confirmations from the Lord on some things He's leading me to do. I LOVE when that happens!

If you live in the Birmingham area, I strongly encourage you to attend tonight's 6:00 service. Even if you have a home church of your own, this is one service you don't want to miss. You won't be able to watch or listen to it online because of copyright laws and use of the movie clips, so if you want to see what I'm talking about, you must go tonight. You'll be glad you did! Oh! AND they'll have FREE popcorn, drinks, and candy at tonight's service. You can't beat that!

Seriously, one of my favorite messages and services EVER!

She Absolutely NAILED it!

I had to watch. I heard the rumors all week, and I had to see if it was really going to happen. It DID, and she NAILED it! Tina Fey went on SNL last night to play Sarah Palin. The resemblance was dead on. The voice was dead on. It was HILARIOUS and amazing all at the same time. If you missed it, here it is. Be warned, the jokes are a little crude, but the impersonation is amazing. Amy Poehler is a hilarious Hillary Clinton, as usual!

One of my many favorite quotes from the skit, "NOOOOOOOOOO MINE!" SO FUNNY!!!

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Thursday's Random Thoughts

Back for another weekly installment of this week's random thoughts.

Today is September 11, 2008. It's been seven years since that devastating attack on U.S. soil. Lives were lost and families were affected forever. My prayers go out to all those who lost loved ones. My prayers go out to those who are serving and protecting our country from future attacks.

Today is September 11, 2008. It's been seven years since the attack. SEVEN years. Where was I when it happened? I was teaching my precious third graders. I had the greatest group of kids ever that year. It just hit me today that they are now 10th graders. 10th graders! My sweet little babies are in high school!!! Wow! I am sad
about that. I'm sad that I live so far from Acworth, Georgia, and most likely, I'll never see any of them again. My prayers go out to those sweet kiddos and their futures. They were such special kids.

God really and truly is amazing. He is revealing so much to me right now. So much that I've looked past. I am thankful that He cares enough to show me the right way.


I wonder if Ash is going to stop all this fussing. It's funny how he can turn it off and on so quickly. Yep...just stopped. Amazing!

I am super thankful for Tristan's teacher and school this year. He is learning so much and loves going. What a blessing! All years haven't been as great as this one.


I've seen two people fall lately and didn't fall all over myself laughing. I'm making progress.

I realized yesterday that we made plans to go out to eat with friends on Saturday night. Saturday night...that's football. What was I thinking? Oh well. Good thing they're great friends, otherwise, I would have to reschedule. ;) Birmingham needs an ESPN Zone!

Speaking of football, my Bama team looked pretty awful last weekend. Glad I haven't been trash talking. Mom, I'm talking to you!


A pumpkin spice frappuccino sure sounds good right now. Why does Starbucks have to charge you the cost of a small country for one cup of joe?


It looks like rain today. YEA, YEA, YEA! I just love the rain. It's the most glorious weather!


I have a really great husband. I really really do. I often take him for granted. Thanks to my new Bible study, I'm realizing just how blessed I am. I hope I will take the time to appreciate him every day. He deserves it.


I guess scrunchies aren't back. I haven't seen anyone sport one since the Olympics. Drats!


What about you? Any random thoughts you want to share? Surely I'm not the only one that has weird random thoughts on a daily basis. Hmmm...maybe I am...

"Eat, Eat"

This morning, like most, I went into Asher's room to get him out of bed and was greeted with some very familiar words..."Eat, eat". That's right, folks. The first thing on my little man's brain every morning is food! Gotta give a boy what he wants...
If you'll notice in this picture, there is no food in Mickey's ears. He was quick to point that out. Back to the counter I went......"That's more like it, Mom."