my side of the story

Single's Day

2012-02-03T01:41:00.000-06:00

I'm Cyndi.

I live in Tupelo, MS.

I'm 27 years old.

I love Jesus. He is the Savior and Lord of my life.

I work at night in Labor and Delivery.

I'm also a Nanny to two great kids, and yes they are silly at times.

I love to travel.

I have a Bucket List full of things I look forward to doing.

I have two Godchildren. Trey is 4 and Ella is 2 wks.

I enjoy watching movies, reading, and going to concerts.

I may have a *slight* addiction to Twitter, Pinterest, and Facebook.

I am a huge MSU fan. GO DAWGS!

I don't know a whole lot about football, but I'm learning. I'm more of a basketball girl.

I really love children. (If you couldn't tell.)

I have so much fun spending time with my friends.

I love the beach, but I also love the mountains in the fall.

I love to laugh.

If there is anything else you would like to know, please leave a comment or email me at crautrey@gmail.com

Thanks so much for stopping by.

Winners!

2012-01-31T02:44:00.000-06:00

I noticed that Lysa TerKeurst retweeted my post about the giveaway, so I left it opened a few more days. I am happy to announce that Kelli Wommack and Shanon Best will be receiving the books and cds. Ladies, please email me at crautrey@gmail.com with your addresses, I will mail these out this week. Thanks to all who entered the giveaway. Hope that you have an amazing week.

It's My Birthday

2012-01-29T10:45:00.000-06:00

I know, I know, most people don't get all excited about their birthdays much after 21 or 25. But this past year has been an awakening for me. And I plan on embracing every moment in 2012. So yes, today I turn the big 2-7! And I'm so thankful that God has blessed me with family, friends, and twitter to help celebrate.
When most people asked me what I was doing for my birthday. I would tell them my plan was to sleep past 5am. And that I did. I didn't wake up until 8. I woke up to the phone ringing. The birthday wishes began early. I ended up going back to sleep and didn't get out of bed until 11. A great start to a birthday. I went to the post office and returned phone calls. I went and got Trey and Ella to go to my parent's house for lunch. My grandparents, aunts, brother, and sister-n-law were all there. It was a great time. I took the kiddos back home and went home to rest. I met my sister-n-law at BWW around 10:30 that night for one last birthday hoorah. I ended up joining the cupid shuffle dance line. It was a lot of fun! I loved spending my day with my Godchildren, my family, and friends. I feel so blessed and grateful.

Amanda feeding Ella

Trey wanted to ride his new bigger bike

he is so protective of her

so precious

sweet sweet baby

isn't she precious?

Mimi and PawPaw T with the "grandkids"

playing football

steeling snuggles

seriously couldn't love this baby more

my grandfather with Ella

birthday cake

me with my Aunt Dina

Aunt Patrice and I

Nanny

Terry

Timothy

my Poppy

my PawPaw

Aunt Lynn

Tina

Trey

Amanda

Trey and my grandmother fighting with the punch balloons

doubled up

sisters that dressed alike

Amanda and I at BWW

Thank you to all who called, texted, Twitterd, Facebooked, or left a message. I am so thankful to you.

Birthday Celebration Part 1

2012-01-28T11:40:00.000-06:00

I planned on celebrating my birthday all weekend long, and I did! When I got to the Hill's that morning, they gave me a birthday gift. I got a Barnes and Noble gift card, two Pandora charms, and a book to make lists in. They (Dr. Hill) knows me so well. Anns helped pick out the charms. Tay and I did school work that morning and then we went to a couple of stores and ate lunch. We finally ate Mexican because he had been wanting it all week. Poor child. He has been telling me all week that he is going to buy me a present and wrap it himself. I ask what kind of present and he tells me a girl present. I ask what is a girl present, he says a Barbie. We picked Anns up that afternoon. Their Nana came into town to spend the night with them and she got there right as Tay was waking up from his nap. So I left them in her hands. Since, I had a little while before meeting friends for dinner, I went to let my friend/hair stylist work her magic on my hair for the night. So glad I did. It looked really good. I met with 7 friends for dinner. We had a great time. We then went to Walmart really quickly. We watched the late showing of One for the Money. It was a good movie. Side note- I was trying to mix several candies in a zip lock bag before the movie started. I "thought" I had closed the bag well enough. Well apparently, I hadn't and when I went to shake it, Hot Tamales and Milk Duds went flying! Next time, I will make sure the bag is closed. But we had a great time. I absolutely loved every minute of the night. Thanks to all my wonderful friends for making my birthday celebration so fun.

gifts from the Hills'

hand picked charms

eating Mexican

Hannah and a few of her friends came into Chili's after we did

Hannah and I

Sydney and Sade'

Holly and Jametra

Sade' and Holly

Holly, me, Jametra

Sydney, me, Sade'

Hannah, Casey, and I

Casey showing off her baby bump

trying to decide which one to get

posing in Wally world

Jametra and I

Hannah and Holly at the theater

Casey and I

Back again

2012-01-27T10:48:00.002-06:00

Well, it's Friday and I haven't blogged all week. BUT, did anyone notice that I blogged EVERYDAY last week? I did. And that is one thing off my bucket list- to blog everyday for an entire week. And to be honest, it was fun. I was able to schedule a couple of the post, so it wasn't completely overwhelming. But now for the catch up of this week. Since I have plans tonight for my birthday, I will only update for Monday through Thursday.

January 23- A morning of homeschooling with Tay. Tay and I met Jametra to buy a gift for a friend that is in the hospital and ate Chili's for lunch. We took a longer nap than usual before going to Anns from gymnastics. She did her homework while Tay played.

writing

good job

when he saw this chicken he said "We can cook this chicken golden and eat it for lunch."

counting

he wanted to take some pictures of me

it's sad that this is the best one he captured

crane operator

homework time

trying to get a picture of all three of us-it's hard

January 24- It was pajama day at Tay's school. He wanted to wear the same pajamas he wore to bed. He said they were still fresh. I didn't let him. But he still looked so cute! I did a few errands and took a small nap while he was at school. That afternoon, their mom picked up Anns from school. She had a doctor appointment. Tay and I stopped at Creative Cakes for some cupcakes for snack later. We took naps. And then it was off to work for me.

this is a cupcake I got- just starting my birthday celebration a little early

January 25- I took Tay to school and went home for a about an hour. Then I took Marquita, Trey, and Ella to the doctor for an appointment with the Pediatrician. After dropping them off, I went and picked up Anns from school. She had a 60% day and got out early. We went back to the dr office and waited for them to come out. Ella is doing great and now weighs 8lbs. I took them home. Since the kids were out and it was close it time to pick up Tay, we stayed for a little while. The kids loved being able to play outside since the weather was great. And I loved getting the chance to hold Ella. We picked up Tay and headed home for naps. We hadn't been down very long when their dad came home early and I went home to nap before going back to work. That night at work, my secret pal left me a birthday present. I got a necklace, bracelet, and Barnes and Noble gift card. So perfect!

my grandparents sent me a card

sign at the dr office that I LOVE

Ella

my precious Godchildren

pretty girl

so peaceful

the girls

all Trey wanted to do was play his DS

silly boy

my gift

love my gifts- and yes, I put the bow in my hair

January 26- Tay got of to school. I took a much needed nap. We picked up Anns. Another afternoon of homework and naps. When I left, I headed straight to the nail shop to get a pedicure. It was much needed! Then I tried to go to BWW, but the wait was over an hour, so I went to Longhorn's instead.

sleepy boy

he was upset because I took away the ipad because they wouldn't share

dig deep

result!- and yes, I have weird feet.

Grand Opening!

2012-01-22T16:51:00.000-06:00

Today is a big day for my town. It's the opening of Buffalo Wild Wings. Now I don't have to look it up every time I go out of town. I can simply go right down the road. If you know me, you know how much I LOVE Buffalo Wild Wings. I love the food. I even love the loud and craziness of it. So I see myself visiting the new restaurant a lot in my future. Yummy goodness. I'm even posting this post from here. Now, to enjoy the wings!

A trip to the ER

2012-01-21T21:51:00.003-06:00

I have been having some back pain for a few weeks. Taking over the counter pain medicine has been helping until this week. It had really gotten worse over the past two days. Last night at work, I was having trouble getting up from the chair and walking. I even had tears in my eyes at one point. So my coworkers told me to go to the ER. So after I got off at 3, I headed on over. Everyone was really nice. I was able to get a muscle relaxer and some pain medication. I got several tests and Xrays. The verdict is that I have early stage of disc disease and have sprained something on my left side. I got some prescriptions and headed home. I'm so thankful that it seems that the sprain should get better and I can do some things to help the disc disease. I am beyond grateful for the medication. I went and saw Ella again. She is still the sweetest baby.

I just love this girl so much!

Baby Love

2012-01-20T18:15:00.001-06:00

January 20th- Tay and I did some schoolwork in the morning. Then we came to the hospital to see Ella (and her mama). I took some pictures while we were there. Trey is very protective of her. He wanted to hold her all the time. He tried to tell everybody how to hold her or how to feed her. It was really funny actually. He is very proud to be her big brother. We picked up Anns and headed home for naptime. I came to the hospital earlier than I needed to for work. I took some more pictures of Ella. She is so so sweet. I love to look at her little hands and feet. She is a content baby. She hasn't cried a lot. She sleeps through the loud noises in the room. She's healthy and gorgeous. Some pictures from today:

A sweet, sweet surprise

2012-01-19T23:45:00.000-06:00

Thursday, January 19th, began as a regular day. I took Tay to school and headed back to the house to wait on the men with Tay's new bedroom furniture. Around 12:15, I got a phone call from Dr. Hill asking me to come and get Trey from the doctor office. He was there with his mom for her weekly checkup. She was being sent to the hospital to be monitored. We picked up Tay and Anns from school. We waited around the house for an hour. Then I got another phone call- Ella would be making her debut around 5:00 that evening. We were not excepting to have a baby until Monday. So now that she was coming four days early, all the last minute details were not done. Oh well, Ella was coming and that's all that matters. We headed to the hospital. My mom met us there and sat with the kids while I went into the operating room. Everything went really well. Ella and her mom both did great. So thankful that I had the privilege of being there when Trey and Ella made their grand entrance into this world. It was a very special moment for me. I had to clock into work shortly after Ella was born. But I got to give her her first bath. And got to see her in the nursery. She's breathtakingly beautiful. So sweet.

him in his big brother shirt

the last picture of us before there's another baby

Trey and his mom-Marquita

first look at his baby sister

not sure what to thank

so protective

my Goddaughter and I

Ellaleese Samontee- 7lbs 13oz 19 1/2in

checking on Ella

lots of hair

Anns and I

Tay and I

January 16-18

2012-01-18T19:00:00.000-06:00

January 16- I didn't have to keep kiddos. I went home for a couple of hours and then went to a doctor appointment. I was prepared to wait a little while, since I had to the last time I went. I got a big gift from God. I was done and out of there BEFORE my scheduled appointment time. So thankful. I headed home to sleep before going back to work. Needless to say, I didn't take a picture this day either.

January 17- Back to another regular day. After Tay to school, I waited on a delivery. I took a nap before getting kiddos. The afternoon was spent with homework with Anns and a certain 3 yr old that didn't want to take a nap. After going home, I put in Beauty and the Beast and went to bed.

After I brushed his hair, Tay said "my hair is beautiful. It looks like a rockstar." I laughed so hard. I don't know where he gets things like that from.

Ate Newks for dinner

made a stop at Gigi's too

love this movie- and I can't wait to see it in theater

January 18- Breakfast, get Tay dressed, schoolwork, take Tay to school. Just a typical morning in my day. After dropping Tay off, I ran a few errands before meeting some friends for lunch. Tay must have been tired because he fell asleep in the car on the way to get Anns. And they both slept on the way home. Tay did take a nap that afternoon. After Anns finished her homework, we played until their mom got home. Then I went to eat mexican and to see Joyful Noise again. I still loved it and I still wanted to clap and sing along.

a big brother shirt that I bought for Trey

so sleepy

looks like she's getting some good sleep

playing Guess Who?

Women's Confrences

2012-01-18T08:00:00.001-06:00

I saw LifeWay for Women ask on Twitter the other day "How many Women's conferences do you attend a year?" Well, I have several that are on my calendar for this year. And in reality, I go to as many as I can. I love hearing different speakers bring a Word from God. And I am so in love with the worship. So I would have to say that I probably attend 7-10 events a year. And I'm not counting the Chonda Pierce shows I go to. 2012 is looking to be another busy year for conferences. What conferences have you attended? What are some that you be looking into for 2012? Some on my list are:

Birthday Giveaway

2012-01-17T07:00:00.001-06:00

Last year on my birthday, I gave away two copies of Candace Cameron Bure's book Reshaping It All. This year I want to do another giveaway on my birthday. When trying to decide what to giveaway, I would always come back to the same thing. A book and a cd. So that's what I'm doing. I am giving away two copies of Lysa Terkeurst's Made to Crave along with Mandisa's What if We Were Real. Both of these items have helped me so much over the past year. And I'm reading the book again now. I always have Mandisa's cd playing at some point throughout every week. And it's on every playlist that I take to the gym. So enter the giveaway and enjoy a present on my birthday. I will be selecting two winners- each winner will get a copy of the book as well as a copy of the cd. Ways to enter: comment on this post, tweet about the giveaway on Twitter (make sure to include my username @cyndiautrey), and for another entry follow this blog. I will pick winners on the 27th and announce on my birthday- the 28th.

This is Mandisa and I last June.

Dream Big

2012-01-16T15:00:00.001-06:00

January 16- It's Martin Luther King day. A holiday that means kids are out of school, banks are closed, the post office shuts down. And growing up those are things about MLK day that I remember. Yes, we studied his speech and his life. And now that I am older and tend to look at things somewhat different, I'm very honored that we celebrate his life today. One man had a dream and acted on it. He pursued his passion. He fought for what he believed in. As I have read more things about him recently, I am influenced by his remarkable life. I have dreams, I have passions. I am embracing those in order for them to come true. What are some of your dreams? I would love to know about some of your passions/dreams. Happy Martin Luther King Day!

I am happy to join with you today in what will go down in history as the greatest demonstration for freedom in the history of our nation.

Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came as a joyous daybreak to end the long night of their captivity.

But one hundred years later, the Negro still is not free. One hundred years later, the life of the Negro is still sadly crippled by the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination. One hundred years later, the Negro lives on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity. One hundred years later, the Negro is still languished in the corners of American society and finds himself an exile in his own land. And so we've come here today to dramatize a shameful condition.

In a sense we've come to our nation's capital to cash a check. When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men, yes, black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the "unalienable Rights" of "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note, insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked "insufficient funds."

But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation. And so, we've come to cash this check, a check that will give us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice.

We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of Now. This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism. Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quicksands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God's children.

It would be fatal for the nation to overlook the urgency of the moment. This sweltering summer of the Negro's legitimate discontent will not pass until there is an invigorating autumn of freedom and equality. Nineteen sixty-three is not an end, but a beginning. And those who hope that the Negro needed to blow off steam and will now be content will have a rude awakening if the nation returns to business as usual. And there will be neither rest nor tranquility in America until the Negro is granted his citizenship rights. The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.

But there is something that I must say to my people, who stand on the warm threshold which leads into the palace of justice: In the process of gaining our rightful place, we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred. We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence. Again and again, we must rise to the majestic heights of meeting physical force with soul force.

The marvelous new militancy which has engulfed the Negro community must not lead us to a distrust of all white people, for many of our white brothers, as evidenced by their presence here today, have come to realize that their destiny is tied up with our destiny. And they have come to realize that their freedom is inextricably bound to our freedom.

We cannot walk alone.

And as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead.

We cannot turn back.

There are those who are asking the devotees of civil rights, "When will you be satisfied?" We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of police brutality. We can never be satisfied as long as our bodies, heavy with the fatigue of travel, cannot gain lodging in the motels of the highways and the hotels of the cities. We cannot be satisfied as long as the negro's basic mobility is from a smaller ghetto to a larger one. We can never be satisfied as long as our children are stripped of their self-hood and robbed of their dignity by signs stating: "For Whites Only." We cannot be satisfied as long as a Negro in Mississippi cannot vote and a Negro in New York believes he has nothing for which to vote. No, no, we are not satisfied, and we will not be satisfied until "justice rolls down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream."¹

I am not unmindful that some of you have come here out of great trials and tribulations. Some of you have come fresh from narrow jail cells. And some of you have come from areas where your quest -- quest for freedom left you battered by the storms of persecution and staggered by the winds of police brutality. You have been the veterans of creative suffering. Continue to work with the faith that unearned suffering is redemptive. Go back to Mississippi, go back to Alabama, go back to South Carolina, go back to Georgia, go back to Louisiana, go back to the slums and ghettos of our northern cities, knowing that somehow this situation can and will be changed.

Let us not wallow in the valley of despair, I say to you today, my friends.

And so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal."

I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.

I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

I have a dream today!

I have a dream that one day, down in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of "interposition" and "nullification" -- one day right there in Alabama little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.

I have a dream today!

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, and every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight; "and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all flesh shall see it together."

This is our hope, and this is the faith that I go back to the South with.

With this faith, we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith, we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith, we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.

And this will be the day -- this will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with new meaning:

My country 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing.

Land where my fathers died, land of the Pilgrim's pride,

From every mountainside, let freedom ring!

And if America is to be a great nation, this must become true.

And so let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire.

Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York.

Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania.

Let freedom ring from the snow-capped Rockies of Colorado.

Let freedom ring from the curvaceous slopes of California.

But not only that:

Let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia.

Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee.

Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi.

From every mountainside, let freedom ring.

And when this happens, when we allow freedom ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual.

Free at last! Free at last!

Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!

speech is from http://www.americanrhetoric.com/speeches/mlkihaveadream.htm

January 10-15

2012-01-15T17:30:00.000-06:00

Well, it's two weeks into the new year and already I'm not staying on target with some things. But it's ok. So here is what's been going on in my world:

January 10- One more day without a picture. It was another regular day in my world. Schoolwork, carpool lines, homework, naps, and work at night for me.

January 11- I did schoolwork with Tay while the cinnamon rolls were cooking. Yummy breakfast. Then he went to school and I took a nap. When we got back home, their grandmother was there. So they showed Nana all the things that got for Christmas. Soon after she left, their dad came home. So I headed home for another small nap before work that night.

putting on shoes

such a big boy

"Spot" and the letter I

counting with M&Ms

goodness

January 12- Another morning of getting Tay off to school. However, their mom had the afternoon free and picked up the kiddos. So I went home and went to bed. I slept for 14 hours, watched a couple of movies, and read a little bit. Not a bad Thursday.

his facial expressions make me laugh so much!! but this is a typical morning shot while we wait in the line

January 13- Since I slept so much on Thursday, I was wide awake about 3AM. So I got a shower and dressed for the day. Then Jametra and I went to IHOP and Walmart. I headed to the Hills'. Tay and I did schoolwork, ran errands, and met Hannah for lunch. A new cupcake shop opened that day. Gigi's Cupcakes! YAY! So we went after lunch and walked the red carpet and ordered cupcakes. I got one for Anns, Tay and I. They had several as samples and we got one to eat then. I saved the big cupcakes for after supper. I can hardly believe that I forgot my camera at the house. So I took some pictures with my phone. Not the best quality. After their dad came home, I met some friends from work to see the movie Joyful Noise. I loved it! And I will be seeing it again. It made me want to stand up and clap at times. I went to eat and headed home.

schoolwork

counting

writing

waiting on our table

I love this picture.

the red carpet

too many choices

his small cupcake

Hannah trying out the wedding cupcake

this is the one that I saved for later

chocolate happiness

Peanut Butter cup, Miss Princess, and Texas Chocolate

January 14- I got up and headed to Memphis. I had the intentions of seeing my Aunt Carol and going to Target. Simple mission, huh. I stopped at my aunt's house and 7 hrs later, I left. Just a little background on my relationship with my aunt. I honestly didn't have one. She has lived in Memphis my entire life. She's my grandmother's sister. I haven't seen her a whole lot throughout my life. I only know things about her that other people have told me. Last year at my cousin's wedding, we say beside each other and just chatted away. We have been talking more. She's asked me to come up to Memphis several times. I knew that on Saturday, I wanted to go to Target before Ella arrives and I called and told her I was coming into town. She said great! So I arrived at her house and we just began to talk. We went to lunch and still talked away. We came back to her house and yet still, just talked and talked. I didn't have my phone, ipod, computer, or camera. (I wish now that I had at least taken a picture of us.) There are no words to express how much that day has meant to me. I loved getting to know her for her. Not other people's opinions or thoughts. Her just being herself and me being mine. I get a little teary eyed when I think of how good God is. I am so thankful that He has opened this door for me to have a relationship with my Aunt. So grateful. I realized that she and I are much more alike than I could have ever imagined. And I love it!!! Her husband took us out for dinner. After that, I left and did make that run to Target. It was a great day on more than one level!

the only picture I took all day

January 15- I went to church, had lunch at my grandmothers, came home for a nap, and went to work. Seems pretty routine.

my dad in my brother's hat

my sister-n-law in my brother's hat

my grandmother broke out her singing machine

my cousin Brittany and I

First day of homeschooling

2012-01-09T16:09:00.000-06:00

Last week, Dr. Hill told me about ordering A Beka for Tay to start doing at home with me. I have done A Beka with another family, and knew what to expect. I do love their homeschool resources. It's very detailed and I feel as though kids and I both can learn from it. (And he will still go to his preschool weekly as well.)
Today when I got to their house, the box had arrived. So I took some time to look at what the first day entitles. I must say our first morning of homeschooling went a lot smoother than even I anticipated. I think that Tay's school has covered some of the material that we looked at today. I'm excited to embark on this new adventure. Just call me the homeschooling nanny. Ha!

Tay found a singing Christmas card

He loved it! And was dancing in his cute pjs

he was trying to play with Mittens, but she scratched his lip instead

learning numbers 1-3

counting

learning the letter I i

It really was a fun morning and all day, I've been asking him about what we talked about. He seems to be getting it. YAY!

January 1-7

2012-01-07T23:30:00.002-06:00

January is already flying by to me. How on earth is it already the 7th? I know that many people are sticking to their NY resolutions and are working out nonstop at the gym. At least everyone on my twitter feed is. Ha. And this is the first year that this hasn't been on my top priority list. I am happy that I'm focusing more on other things this month. Don't worry, the workout girl in my will return soon. But I have felt that this month is more about me being in the Word more and focusing on things that God has for me. I have gone back to my reality of everyday life. Keeping kiddos and working. So far I've even done well with my 365 project. I'm hoping to scrapbook it at least monthly. But the pictures are there at least. Some days (most days) there is only ONE picture for the day. I hope that y'all are getting off to a great start for 2012. I sure feel like I am.

January 1- I was completely lazy! All day. I watched Army Wives and layed around. Later in the afternoon, I did begin my Stepping Up Beth Moore Bible Study. WOW! I was one of the women she talked about that was crying already in the intro week. So there I was in my room with tears just running down my face. I have a feeling that many more tears will be coming with this study. And they will be worth it.
And then I got ready and headed into work.

Beth Moore (with flash)

January 2- When looking for pictures for today, there aren't any. That maybe because I came home from work, went to bed, slept all day, got dressed, and went back to work. And that's all I did all day. I was kinda upset about it, but this is Leap year. So I am still on for the 365 project. Ha!

January 3- Back to the kiddos!!! I was ready to see them. I tell myself that they were ready to see me as well. We opened gifts before their mom went to work. Glad that they liked their gifts. I got a Pampered Chef Deep Covered Baker Dish, purse, and a ring. Really cute. Love them. The kids and I hung out at home all day. In fact, when their dad came home, they were both still in their pjs. We had a great day.

a cat wondered up and they have kept her- her name is Mittens

Anns got a new desk and school room in the playroom

cute phone on her desk

Answering some math questions

Tay got an "Eyes" tent

playing with Tay's new firehouse

Anns and I played this Wii game- so much fun!

Anns was pink and I was green

Playing the Wii

All three of us played the Mario cart game

Concentrating

driving

playing with Tay's crane that I got him

January 4- Back to school for everyone. Tay did really great at school. Anns had a good day. We spent a little while doing some homework while Tay napped. After their dad came home, I went to Charming Charlie before heading home.

this was his first reaction to going back to school

then he got excited about seeing his friends

January 5- After taking Tay to school, I went home for a nap. After picking up kiddos, we did the afternoon ritual. Homework and naps. I went to get dinner before work. It was yummy. Then it was off to work for the night.

Anns with Mittens

watching the popcorn pop

snack time

yummy dinner

January 6- Tay and I played for a while that morning at home. Then we went to run some errands. Tay ended up falling asleep in the car. I did something that I have never done. Since Tay was asleep, I decided that instead of going home and him waking up, we went to the school and got in the carpool line. Early. Really early. We both took naps in the car while we waited for Anns. Then we met their mom at the mall. She was getting new glasses and wanted my opinion. The kids stayed with her and i headed home. Got a small nap before heading into work.

at lunch

taking a nap- it's so funny how he is sleeping

January 7- My day was spent all day in the bed sleeping. Then it was back to work (again).

I had forgotten that it was Elvis's birthday tomorrow. And I live in the city where he was born. Ha!

Please join us to pray

2012-01-06T00:42:00.003-06:00

As many of you know, I have a special place in my heart and life for a phenomenal woman named Chonda Pierce. She's a Christian comedian. Over the holiday weekend, her husband was admitted to the hospital with complete renal failure. They have done several tests and a biopsy. They haven't found the cause of this sudden onset as of yet. Her mother had surgery and was in ICU at a different hospital when David became sick. Needless to say, her family needs us to stand in the gap and pray. Branches, a ministry she and her brother Mike founded, is having a prayer at 11:00 today. Several others from other states have also pledged to join in prayer at 11:00 today. Please join us and say a prayer today for Chonda and her family.

Matthew 18:20
"For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

Philippians 4:6
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."

Thank you to all that join in prayer today. Also, her mom is doing better and is out of ICU now.

And please keep this family in your prayers beyond today. I know that they appreciate all prayers.

Music flashbacks

2012-01-04T05:00:00.000-06:00

I love music. It's not a secret. I love to sing (alone) in the car. I love to sing (alone) at home. I love to worship (alone and together). I always have. When I was in junior and high school, it's how I survived days that were so long. And in college, it brought me together with people I'm still friends with today. I love that when I worship, things come into clarity. I love that when I sing praises to God, somehow I'm free. Free to love better. Free to live better. Simply free. Breakthrough happens in my life when I worship. And worshipping God is so important to me.
I began thinking about the music that I "grew up" listening to. Songs that made such an impact on my young life. I'm so thankful that even though things were not perfect at home, I was always in a church. So thankful that I was involved in youth group. So I've done some youtube research and have listened to some "old" music lately. And thanks to iTunes I've been able to download some albums and have a blast getting reacquainted with some of my favorite music. So here are some links to some of my favorite songs/artists from "back in my day." Enjoy. And please leave comments on some music that you listen to for worship/fun. I would love to find more music to add to my collection.

These are only a few of the many songs that I have brought back into my life.

Didn't want to overload the blog.

Stepping Up

2012-01-03T08:00:00.002-06:00

So I have loved all things Beth Moore for as long as I can remember. But, I've never done a Bible study of hers. I've read some books, gone to some conferences, yet haven't done a study. I tried once. I was given Breaking Free when I was in high school. I was not in a place where I could complete it. I did maybe the first few days worth of study and stopped. Emotionally, I wasn't ready. I simply put it away. And I have never been able to join a group for a study because of the way I work. But, a woman I work with had the dvd set of Beth's Stepping Up. And I've borrowed it and bought a book. I popped in the dvd on the 1st and sat down for a session. Well, let me tell you, it's incredible already. I am looking so forward to getting more into this study. I'm loving it so far. I know that it's only day one, but I'm committed to the next 30 days of Stepping Up. So if you think about me at all, please pray for me. I know that while I am heading in the right direction, that Satan is going to do his best to distract me. Have any of you done Stepping Up? Thoughts?

Ringing in the new year

2012-01-02T04:56:00.000-06:00

I didn't have any plans for New Year's Eve night. I ended up doing some things around my house. Jametra and I went to dinner. One the way home, we passed a firework stand. On a impulse, we stopped. I can't remember ever lighting fireworks myself. So it was time to start my Bucket List a day early. And so we went home and shot fireworks to bring in the new year. It was really fun and then I went to bed. Such a great way to end my year and ring in the new year.

got these to start my new year off right! new Bible study, One Year Bible, a new journal

Jametra at dinner

the loot

Jametra lighting roman candles

me lighting a rooster

it worked!

me popping snappers

so cool

sparklers

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Happy New Year!!!!

2012-01-01T00:05:00.001-06:00

It's that time again. Time to think about the past year. Time to dream of things to come in the next year. So many times, I've found myself making a list of new year resolutions. And so many times that list goes by the wayside on Jan 2nd. I have thought about some things over the past year and I am looking forward to the new year. So I will be sharing some of those things. One thing that has really been sticking with me for the past few months is something that I've been applying to my life since reading Priscilla Shirer's book Resolution for Women. In one part of the book, she talks about giving your best NOW. And not waiting for what you want to happen before you start to live. So many times, I've said "that I can't wait to have a husband or children so that I can ____________." Or "I need to lose a lot of weight so that I can __________." Priscilla focused on the point of why wait. And that has become a new motto for me. I'm not wanting to wait to live. So that's one thing I'm wanting to embrace in the upcoming year. To live life NOW. Not to wait on things that may never happen. I'm honestly, I'm beyond THRILLED with this opportunity. Can't wait to see all the things that 2012 brings. The other part is about giving your all to what you are doing now. I can love my future husband now. By loving myself and giving my all to those around me will one day lead to me being able to love my husband and children fully. And to love fully now is something that I want to do on a daily basis. This probably makes zero sense, but to me it's perfect. And so with a year behind me and a life ahead of me- I'm going to love with all I have and embrace every moment! Some things that I would like to do next year:
some may get done, some may not- and I'm not focusing on that at all, I'm just excited about getting the chance to do some of these things.

I wanting to complete a project 365.

to attend this conference

to do better at being healthy and happy

yes, yes, and YES!!!

a big priority this year

would like to attend this conference

See Chonda at as many shows as I can

own a pair of cowboy boots

There are lots more things on my "Bucket List" for 2012. Mostly, I just want to be open to all the adventures God has in store for me. I'm ready for the year of my life! Welcome to 2012!

Last catch up of the year

2011-12-31T16:47:00.000-06:00

December 27- I didn't have anything planned for the day. So I slept in and went shopping in the afternoon. I had to go back to work that night. So, not to much to report for this lazy day.

got 5 Charming Charlie gift cards for Christmas- and I had a coupon. Bring on the jewelry!

December 28- Since I had to work the night before and again that night, I slept all day. I didn't really sleep all day, but at least I rested all day.

some people ordered pizza at work and I ate their peppers! Yummy.

December 29- I ended up staying over to help day shift at work for a few hours. I ended up staying for 8 more plus the 12 I had already worked. So needless to say after 20 hours of work, I was ready for bed when I got home. So I slept most of the rest of the day and night.

I did look online and found Chonda's new schedule for the spring! So happy that she's coming to areas around me. Road trip planning has begun!

December 30- I got up early and Jametra and I went to IHOP at 5:30 in the morning. Then we went to Walmart. By the time we got home, I was ready for bed again. So I took a nap and got up later and went to a late lunch and movie. Alone. I saw We Bought A Zoo. Really cute. Then I made a stop at ToysRUs and headed back home for the night. I popped some popcorn. Had some Hot Tamales, M&Ms, peanuts to go along with it. Movie and my favorite snack. Not bad for a Friday night, right?

December 31- Happy New Year's Eve! I had all intentions to be productive today. Since, I didn't get out of bed until 1:00, guess that went down the drain. But I still have all night to do a few things. I went to lunch and made a stop at Starbucks. And I may or may not do anything tonight. Who knows. As of yet, I don't have plans to do anything. I may just turn up the music and clean my house. Then again, I may pop in a movie and be lazy. But, I do hope that everyone has a blast doing whatever they are doing tonight. May the upcoming year be wonderful and full of blessings!

I did take the time to organize my jewelry on this hanger I got for Christmas!

This is one of my favorite pictures from 2011. I happen to love this kid, and next year Ella will be here. I'm very excited about the things that I've yet to do and hope to embrace 2012 with an open heart!

Christmas with Trey

2011-12-31T16:20:00.000-06:00

December 26- I got off work and took a small nap. I went to get Trey and head to do more Christmas activities with family. We went to Ken and Amanda's first. I loved seeing the girls and hanging out for a while. Trey had fun as well. I'm hoping to see them more in the upcoming year. Hannah and Hollie are teenagers that are busy! I'm glad that they were both home when I went over. After that, we went to my parent's house so they could have Christmas with Trey. It was so good. I love seeing how they are with him. God truly does restore relationships and trust. And I'm beyond grateful. Trey got lots of presents. He got lots of camo clothing from my parents. He, my dad, and my brother went hunting for a little while that evening. Trey didn't like it too much. He said "We didn't catch anything!" So funny. Trey got punch balloons in his stocking and before the night was over, we all had one and were fighting with them. A memory I will always treasure. A great day for sure!

Ken and Trey putting together a puzzle

Amanda and I

completed the puzzle

helping Hollie put together a lego set

Trey and I

He came to me wearing his new football uniform- he wore it most of the day

he got a pistol dart gun

opening gifts

Veggie Tale book

big present

a remote control helicopter

some whoopie coushins

a bigger bike

it took all three of them to put the dart gun together

decked out in camo

target shooting

yep- playing football inside

tackling my dad

getting tackled by my brother- he looks so happy though

ready to go hunting

the kids and the punching balloons

delighted

such a joy

Trey with my dad

Trey with my mom

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-29T01:01:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas from Trey and I. I love this year's card. Hillary's friend Tricia designed it for me.

Christmas means so much more to me than the presents, pretty lights, and all the shopping. I think about a time long ago when in a simple, stinky barn The Messiah was born. A Savior for all mankind that was wrapped in cloth and layed in a manger. The very Son of God. My Jesus. My Savior. To think of His humble beginning and know that God loved me so much that He gave His Son for me, is almost to overwhelming. When I think of how Mary must have felt not having a proper room for a birth. What Joseph must have said to Mary when there was no where else to go. How Mary felt when The King of Kings was layed in her arms. When the Wisemen came with gifts. When the Shepard's followed a star. I'm amazed at how much God truly loves me.
This year I have been so into Christmas music. Any and all. But this year I'm loving one song so much. I have it on repeat in the car and at home. It has brought me to tears several times. I've tweeted and facebooked some lines of the song. It's "I Believe" by Natalie Grant. Simple breathtaking.

This is such a powerful song!!!

December 25- I got to sleep all night. When Jametra got home from work, we opened our gifts to each other. After that, I went to my parents house to open gifts with them and my brother and SIL. I went to our church service. It was very good. We had a candlelight service, a devotion, and some songs. Very quick yet so touching. I went straight to my grandparents house for dinner with her whole family. I took a quick nap while waiting on people to get there. We ate lunch and just visited for a while. I left there and went up to my great-grandmother's to see her for a few minutes. Then I headed home to get ready for work.

a new journal for the upcoming year

cake pop maker

a Charming Charlie gift card

Alabama bottoms

crystal picture frame

same trimmer

gift card

movie time

Pampered Chef dot pattern dinnerware

Madea!

Charming Charlie gift cards

Paula Deen cookware

all his garb

family pictures

Brittany and Amanda

how many people does it take to figure out Word Twist?

Nanny and I

me and Aunt Dina

me and my mom

naptime for Brit

typical

us with Granny

my great-grandmother and I

Hope that everyone has had a very Merry Christmas!

Christmas Eve

2011-12-29T01:01:00.000-06:00

December 24- I got off at 3am and took a nap before all the festivities began. I went to Denise's house to see her kids open their Christmas presents and have breakfast. I went to my parent's house to have lunch with my mom's side of the family. It was nice to see all of them and get to hang out for a while. Then I went to my dad's parent's house. After I found out that my cousin wasn't coming until much later, I went and took a nap in the bed. I woke up to open gifts and spend time with them. I haven't been able to stay for the whole night in a few years because I've been at work every year. So I was happy to stay longer this year. Let me just say, those people are crazy!!! And fun. And I love them.

Kimberly and Keston

the girls with their new cars- BMW no less

opening my gift to them

Keston in the shirt I got him. It came with an amp and it plays music

new bikes

Anniston in her high heels

me with Kadence

my cousin's daughter Madeline

my grandmother with her first great grandchild

bright eyes

my grandfather with Madeline

Madeline wasn't interested in opening presents

new coat

new jacket

a picture of all of my family

new sweater

me with my Pawpaw and MamaDean

my Nanny with her Peppers gift cards

Amanda

Timothy

my Poppy with his new drill

opening their picture of our family

being crazy

Pampered Chef dot pattern glasses

he got a MSU cup and I got the glasses

I got the Paula Deen cookware set

me and my cousin Brittany

Amanda, Brittany, and I

the grandkids

Amanda, Timothy, me, Brittany, Arron

Amanda, Timothy, and I

Brittany and Arron

growing up with these two was rough!

Timothy, Amanda, me, Tina, Terry

my Aunt Patrice, Brittany, Arron

my grandparents- Guy and Nellie

Amanda and Timothy

Amanda and I

Amanda and Brittany

Brittany and Timothy acting crazy as usual.

December 22-23

2011-12-28T05:11:00.000-06:00

December 22- I took a nap in the morning and got up to meet my grandparents at my aunt's house. My Aunt Carol came from Memphis for the day. So I went over to see her and some family. It was fun to hear old stories about their childhood that I've never heard before. Learned lots about my grandmother, that's for sure. They also sang some crazy songs. It was nice to spend some time with them. I am hoping to go to Memphis soon to visit my aunt. I had to leave in order to get ready and go to work. But it was worth it.

Aunt Dina, Nellie (my grandmother), Aunt Carol

Aunt Dina

laughing

good times

I've seen this look so many times

Aunt Dina and I

Carol, Dina, Nellie

Michael (Aunt Carol's oldest son)

Aunt Carol

singing

Don't know what this look is for

December 23- I came home from work and went to bed. I slept most of the day before going back to work that night. Not a whole lot to report for this day. Didn't even take a picture. It's almost time for Christmas and I can hardly believe that it's so close.

December 21

2011-12-28T03:57:00.001-06:00

Since everyone is on Christmas break, it means that I am as well. At least where the kiddos are concerned. So I spent the morning being lazy and getting the rest of some gifts together. I had another appointment right after lunch. Afterwards, I went to O'Charley's to set up for our secret pal Christmas party. We had to have it at a restaurant before some people went to work. It wasn't ideal, but it worked out. This is our big reveal night. I always know who everyone has by this point. It was fun to see the ones who have never done this before. I love having secret pals at work.

gifts on the table-ready for everyone to show up

Jametra and I

Holly and Jametra

Sean and I

he's so cute

Pam and Holly

Sade'

me with Abby

Wanda

Hannah loved her blanket

and her doggie pjs

Cindy

Abby opening gifts

Any guess as who bought those dvds?

we had to start opening two at a time

Pam is very excited

about her luggage

Wanda with her new coffee pot

Cindy's ornament

Hannah made this scarf

Sade' is overjoyed with her painting

and her makeup kit

got the movie on my list

bundle up

cute eyeshadows

a body pillow

the group

Holly and I

Pam and I

Cindy and Holly

We had a good time. Next year we are aiming to have it at someone's house again.

December 17-20

2011-12-28T03:57:00.000-06:00

December 17- I was up early. Not that I planned to be. I mean I set no alarm, was comfy in the hotel room, and could hear Trey snoring in the bed next to me. No reason to get up. Yet, I was wide awake at 5:30 AM! I did go back to sleep for a little while. When Trey woke up after 9 we got breakfast downstairs. Then I took him to my parent's house for a visit. He and my dad had the best time sword fighting. Then we went to see Alvin and the Chipmunks. Trey loves these movies. I took Trey home and went home as well.

This is Trey sleeping.

Playing on the computer with Mimi

Sword fighting with Pawpaw T

some ninja move

wearing deer antlers

at the movies

December 18- We had our Christmas program at church. It was really good. They did an interview with several of the little kids about the Christmas story. Hearing it through their words gave it a whole new meaning. When asking what gifts were brought to Jesus, some answers were very funny. Frankinsomething, Murf, and one little boy said he would have brought Jesus cookies. Out of the mouths of babes. After church, Sade' and her family, Sidney and her daughter, Jametra, and I went to eat. I love hanging out with friends outside of work. So thankful for these friendships. I came home to rest before going to work that night.

wore my favorite shoes to church

baby Mackenna

December 19- The kiddos and I stayed home all day. We had a day of playtime, laundry, lunch, and naptime. And I went back to work that night.

silly boy

running hard

playing in the tree house

toothless grin

soup and grilled cheese for a picnic outside

December 20- I had an appointment scheduled for the morning part of the day. Then I went over to stay with the kiddos. We had to do a couple of errands for their mom. We stopped for lunch at Chick-Fil-A. Their dad came home soon after we layed down for naps. I left and went shopping for a few things. I went home to wrap some gifts. I feel very blessed to be able to give presents this year.

part of a test I had to take at my appointment

Anns and I wrapped up some cookies for their great-grandmother

gifts under our tree

truly blessed!

Out of the box idea

2011-12-26T05:00:00.000-06:00

December 16- I knew the kids were out of school for Christmas break and wanted to do something different. It's hard around here in the winter to come up with new things for kids to do indoors. So I went a new hotel in our town and rented a room so that we could spend the day at the indoor pool. Cool, huh? All three kids (Anns, Tay and Trey) LOVED it. They swam for four and a half hours. I bathed them and got them and myself dressed for dinner. We met their mom at Longhorn, but the wait was horrible. So we went to Mt. Fugi. We sat at the hibachi table and the kids had a great time. Trey and I ran to Walmart for some snacks and went back to the hotel for the night. We ate cookies. We drank Root Beer. We watched a movie. And I went to sleep. It was so worth it for me to have had so much fun.

they worked on a gift for their mom

being creative

they could see the mall from our room

all ready to get in

silly boy

We had so much fun! I suggest if you can do it sometime, it's a perfect thing to do with kids in the winter.

Busy, busy day

2011-12-23T05:00:00.001-06:00

December 15- I dropped Tay off at school. I rushed home to shower and dress before having to pick Anns up at school for her 60% day. We had lunch at one of my favorite places- Mt. Fugi. We headed over to Tay's school for his class Christmas party. Their mom was meeting us as well. It was a cute party for the last day of school for the year. After the party, their mom went back to work and I headed home for naptime with the kiddos. I was staying later than usual with the kiddos so that their parent's could attend a Christmas party. I was so blessed to find out that she had bought tickets to Disney on Ice for me and the kids. And she even got one for Trey! How awesome was that? So I picked up Trey and we all headed to Disney. We got some food and into our seats. The kids were all very excited to be there. And if I'm honest, I was THRILLED to be there. The show was really good and the kids all behaved. I now want to own and watch all the Disney movies. Time to add to my collection.

sweetness at lunch

reading while waiting for Tay's class

mommy and daughter

Anns and I

I was told this is a typical face for me- it scares me

helping Tay open his book

snack time

a Rudolph nose that lights up

Tay and his best friend D

rubbing noses

his little class

Now for some serious picture overload from Disney on Ice:

I was a lot of fun. The boys with their swords.

Anns with her Belle necklace.

December 12-14

2011-12-23T02:54:00.000-06:00

December 12- Tay and I started the day off by meeting my grandmother to do a little shopping. He was really good. Sometimes I worry about shopping in the mall with a 3yr old, but usually he is no trouble at all. We shopped and ate lunch. My grandmother told Tay that she would be his "Nanny" too. He told her he already had a "Nana". So I guess I get to keep my grandmother. It was really funny. We came home and he did a "Christmas surprise". He really just cut out and glued paper. Then it was naptime. We picked Anns up from gymnastics. Another day in the neighborhood.

Tay and Nanny

we ran into Santa on his break in a store. He was nice to stop for a picture.

Tay got this at Hobby Lobby- it was worth the $1.50 to keep him entertained.

The "Christmas secret" project:

December 13- I took Tay to school. On my way home, I got a tweet from Hannah wanting to have lunch with me. So instead of napping like I should have been, I met Hannah for lunch. It was fun and I love getting to hang out with her. I made the rounds for afternoon pick ups. We had naptime. Then the kids and I went to eat at Peppers for supper. They were coming to the hospital to hang out for a little while until their dad could come pick them up. Anns has been wiggling two teeth for a while now. Well, tonight she pulled her front tooth all by herself. It's really funny to me that her mom (who is a Doctor) doesn't do well with the pulling of the teeth. So I got her all cleaned up and put her tooth in a bag. After she got home later, she pulled the other one. Big night for the Tooth Fairy.

Hannah and I

kiddos at supper

Tay coloring

Anns trying to work the puzzle

Big girl pulling her tooth

All I want for Christmas is my front tooth

her tooth

December 14- As soon as I got to the Hill's, Anns had to show me the empty space where there used to be a tooth. After picking up kiddos and beginning naptime, their dad came home a little early. I got a text from Marquita saying that she had been contracting some and was hurting. So I talked her into meeting me at the hospital to get it checked out. So I spent my couple of hours before going into work waiting with her. Everything seemed to be ok and she was sent home. I'm glad that Ella has a few more weeks to "cook".

Toothless grin

She's going to kill me for this...

December 5-11

2011-12-22T17:44:00.000-06:00

Once again I am behind on the blog posting. And once again I am going to play catch up in hopes that I can keep it up.

December 5- I have been looking for some earrings and a bracelet that my cousin wants for Christmas. It's been harder than I thought without going broke. So I found a few pictures online and sent them to a woman at my work and she was able to make something that I think will work. Tay and I spent most of the day at home. We picked Anns up from gymnastics. I headed to work later. Very much another Monday around here.

the earrings my cousin wants

watching tv

play time

I make a mean grilled cheese

December 6- I took Tay to school. And before I knew it, it was time to start the carpool rounds. Anns had an appointment for a haircut right after school. We had a shorter naptime and I did a few things around the house and ironed Tay's pants before they took family pictures that night. (They turned out really cute!)

being a nanny is a tough job ;)

Anns and I played this while waiting on parents to get home

December 7- SNOW! It began snowing this morning. It's finally feeling more like Christmas time. Taylor thought that he should catch a snowflake before going to school. And he tried. And he did it, so he said. After getting home, Jametra and I begin to work on a gift project that she has seen on Pintrest. She found a simpler recipe from the Woman's World. So I agreed to help. (The jars came from Hobby Lobby). It turned out really cute I must say.

Chocolate Martini Body Scrub:

1 cup Raw Sugar (the coloring may vary on the sugar)

1 cup Epsom Salt

1/2 canola oil

2 tsp cocoa powder

Simply add all ingredients and mix together. Then pour into a glass jar. Add a cute ribbon and ta da!

Lemon Drop Bath Salts

3 cup Epsom Salt

1/2 tsp Lemon Extract

1 tsp sugar

yellow food coloring

Again, simply mix all the ingredients together and put into a jar.

I also did a strawberry margarita bath salt with the recipe above. Just add strawberry extract and red food coloring

I put a label on the top of what's inside.

December- Nana was here to keep the kiddos for a few days, so I had a couple of days off. I did a little Christmas shopping that morning. I headed to Lifeway with a coupon. I was glad to get a few things crossed off my list. After a nap in the afternoon, it was off to work I go.

picked these up at Lifeway

December 9- I got to go home after work and go straight to bed. Problem with this is that I never sleep all day. Even when I can. But I got up and dressed to go hear Patrick House, Biggest Loser Winner Season 10, speak at our Wellness Center. It was great to get to hear his story and meet him.

Patrick and I

he hosted a mini boot camp at the Wellness Center

sharing his story

December 10- I slept most of the day and tried to rest as long as I could before work. I'm on this kick of trying to take a picture everyday and at 11:55 I realized that I didn't have a picture for that day and I got out my camera and took some pictures of us in front of us our Christmas tree. And the date on the camera says the 11th, but the time is set wrong, so I have to fix it. I'm so glad I work with people who understand and comply to my quirkiness.

Our tree

Hannah and I

Casey K

December 11- Since I already had my camera out, I might as well take a few of us as well. After work, I went home to take a nap before heading to Memphis. Priscilla Shirer was preaching that morning at Life Church. It's one of my favorite churches ever. If I lived closer and could be more involved, I know that I would attend church there. I had a wonderful time at church and stayed for two services. She always hits the nail on the head for me. Love hearing her preach/speak. Phenomenal. I went to eat at Buffalo Wild Wings and stopped in Southaven to see a movie. Nothing like a day to yourself.

Hannah and I

Sade' and Casey K

love this ornament

and this one

Waiting for the second service to begin

Priscilla

December 21st

2011-12-21T16:30:00.000-06:00

December 21- I was in Toys R US and what I wanted wasn't there. So I went over to the Babies R US deptartment. I was looking at the prices on a play mat for my cousin's little girl. I passed by a onesie that read "My Aunt loves me berry much." And I began to tear up. Three years ago today, my brother and SIL delivered my neice Harley stillborn at 29 wks. To say it was a rough time is an understatment. Our lives haven't been the same. And thinking about how fun and exciting Christmas and her birthday would be like this year is also hard. I'm so thankful for the things that God has brought into my life because of Harley. So thankful. And I'm reminded that God's mercy and love is everlasting. Happy Birthday sweet Harley.

Hello December

2011-12-06T01:25:00.000-06:00

I haven't always been the biggest fan of Christmas time. Putting up a tree, hanging lights, decorating the house just seemed like a lot of unnecessary work to me. I think it's pretty when other people do it, I just don't like doing it. However, the year something has changed. I keep telling myself I'm getting softer in with my age. I've ENJOYED putting up the tree and getting different things to decorate with outside and inside the house. Now, it's nothing like most of the other bloggers I follow homes. Or the homes/pictures I see on Pintrest, but I'm just starting out in this field. I'm hoping to score on several holiday items once Christmas is over and things go on sale. But for now, I will continue to collect one thing at a time.

December 1- Today is field trip day at Tay's school. His class is going to see Santa at the mall. And I'm going along for the ride. What a ride that was. Nothing like 30 3yr old at the mall to see Santa to make your day so bright. It went really well. Tay was worn out by the time we left. He was asleep in the car before we could get far down the road. We all took a nap that afternoon.

his class

trying to kiss the Santa mail

looking at the decorations waiting in line for Santa

you better be nice

while other kids were still taking pictures this group played ring around the rosie

singing very loudly on the carousel

all smiles

climbing like a monkey

at story time at Barnes and Noble

passed out in the carpool line

December 2- Tay and I set off to do some Christmas shopping before meeting some friends for lunch. We ate at Mt. Fuji- a Japanese restaurant in town. They have a hibachi table. I'd never eaten at the hibachi table before, so we did for lunch. It's like a dinner and a show. Very cool. I took Tay back to his house to meet his grandmother who was picking them up today. I ran a couple of more errands and headed home. I put on some Christmas music and worked on a few projects. Jametra came home and we ended up staying home all night. We cooked supper, turned on the tree lights, and wrapped presents. We were in the bed by 9:00. Some fun we are. But it was a good night.

helping put the candy canes in my trunk

someone didn't want to take his picture with me

but I talked him into it

Hannah and Jametra

hibachi grill

egg roll

the cook tried to through egg into Tay's mouth-he missed

he missed Jametra's as well

smiley face

I love this picture of Trey. It looks better in person in the frame. But simply, breathtaking.

For supper that night we cooked a really easy and yummy chicken dinner:

put 2 cans cream of chicken in crockpot

add 2 blocks of cream cheese

add 2 pks dry Italian seasoning

cook on low for 30 min

then add chicken (we added 6 chicken tenders-thawed)

cook on high for 4 hours and serve over rice

This is SO GOOD!!!! We even ate it for breakfast the next day.

using my Christmas cup

my wrapping paper for this year

our finished tree

a blue peacock- who else has that on their tree?

wrapping gifts

December 3- I had agreed to take some photos for a friend and her family. She hasn't had any family pictures made in a while and I wanted to give it a try. After that was over, I went to Lifeway and did some Christmas shopping. I got a few new cds for myself! I had lunch and then headed home. I cleaned my house and did some laundry. I met Jametra for dinner and then went to finally decide on the family pictures I am doing for Christmas. A very full and happy Saturday.

Aren't they precious?

I'm loving these cds!

December 4- I went to church in Houston at New Wine. This is one of my old churches and they are still my family. Some of my greatest friends go to this church. My friend Berea was having her little boy's first birthday party after church. It's hard to believe that Zeke is almost one. Since he was born on Christmas Eve, she had his party early. I loved getting to see my friends, enjoyed a great service at church, and had a blast at Zeke's party. I came home to nap a little bit before heading into work for the night.

I got to hold this precious baby boy most of the day.

his outfit is so cute

Zeke's party was farm themed

the birthday boy

Bella- Zeke's cousin

Bella and her mama Beka

Berea and Zeke

Dusty, Berea, and Zeke

so cute

wild hair

me and the birthday boy!

Last of November

2011-12-05T03:12:00.000-06:00

November 27- Sunday was a very lazy day for me. I just hung out at home and stayed up long enough to watch Chonda Pierce in 12 Wishes for Christmas. She plays the guardian angel. I loved the movie (of course). If you want to catch it in Dec, check your local channels for the ION network.

yes- I took a picture of the tv. Lots of them actually.

November 28- It's been raining and yucky for the past couple of days. With no end in sight. So Tay and I stayed home ALL DAY LONG. In his words "I'm going to hang out with you today." And that's what we did. I actually enjoy the days where we don't have anywhere to be. After lunch he told me he was really tired. And he went to sleep. For 3 1/2 hours. That's the longest nap I think he's had all year. Their dad came home early and I went to get Anns from gymnastics. I dropped her off at home. I decided to go see a movie. Alone. And have dinner. Alone. Kelly wrote a post on loneliness and I told her that it was very fitting for my life right now. I'm usually not really bothered about doing things alone. Often times, I just want to be alone. After being with kids all day and with adults all night, sometimes I just want to do something by myself. But lately, I've had this yearning for something more. And it's a feeling that comes and goes at times in my life. And I'm holding onto the fact that God truly is all I need. In His timing I will meet the one I'm to share the rest of my life with. I know that being single is hard right now. I surely thought that by now I would be married and have kids. It's just not right for now. I have friends and family that do things with me. I go places. I don't sit still really. But even in all the chaos, at times I'm just lonely. So I'm more than thankful and grateful for others like Kelly who choose to stand in the gap for people like me. To be pray warriors when at times I don't feel as though I can pray for myself. And if you are that type of person, thank you.

Tay thought Sarah's new bed was perfect for him

I was washing some clothes, and he wanted to clean the windows. So I let him.

concentrating very hard

November 29- Tay was ready to go back to school. He wanted to see his friends again. So another day of drop off, carpool, homework, and work for all of us around here.

waiting to get out at school

playing skip bo- the kid's version

a roaring fire

November 30- It's the last day of November and I can't believe it. Time sure does fly. After taking Tay to school, I took a nap. It wasn't long enough though. We came home to find the men there putting in a new fence. I didn't really think anything of it. Until they were in the backyard with their noisy machines taking out the old fence to put in the new one. During our naptime. Needless to say, there wasn't a lot of naping that afternoon. Then it was back to work for me that night.

it's going to be gorgeous once it's finished

Anns reading

Now, onto December and the holiday season!

Thanksgiving Weekend

2011-11-27T00:47:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I woke up really early. After a little while, I heard Jametra wake up and go outside for the paper. I opened the door and asked if we could look at the Black Friday ads. She laughed and said yea. So we were up at 5:45 looking at the ads in our pjs. My dad called about 6:25 and asked if I could come unlock his truck because he locked his keys in it. So Jametra and I went up there and unlocked the door. We headed back home and begin the process of putting up the tree. I got a shower and got dressed. My grandparents came by and picked me up and I went to my parent's house for Thanksgiving lunch. I haven't always done that and honestly I am glad that I went. If my car was working, I would have went to Ken and Amanda's as well. I know that I missed them and would have loved hanging out with them. My grandparents took me home in enough time for a quick nap before work. I have worked for the fast four Thanksgiving nights and have missed out on the black Friday madness. I'm one of those people that likes to go shopping on black Friday. I really wanted to go. But I didn't. And it's ok. I really didn't need anything, so I wasn't too tore up about it. I did make a trip to Walmart in the morning and Trey's mom was working. She said it was crazy. Fights had to broken up. I loved hearing about all the madness that happened. I went home and took a nap. I had my granddad listen to my car and he thought it was just the battery, so my dad came over Friday morning and charged it so I could go to the shop and get a new one. Now its working fine again. Sometimes, its the smallest things. I came back home and got back into the bed. I love days when I can do that. Then, it was time to go back to work. Saturday has been filled with sleep, watching movies, reading, and sorting through the family pictures I got back. I have had a great week and weekend. I'm so thankful and blessed to have incredible family and friends. And the love of a Savior that know no bounds. HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

starting the process of putting together the tree

one layer up

at least it's up

my mom holding my cousin's 8wk old baby-Madeline

my dad's parents

Aunt Patrice and cousin Brittany

Nanny and I

me, Brittany, Nanny, Poppy, Timothy, Arron

Brittany and I

MamaDean (my mom's mom) and I

me with Madeline

4 generations- my grandmother, Aunt Lynn, cousin Octavia, and baby Madeline

so sweet

"Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever." 1 Chronicles 16:34

November 20-23

2011-11-26T22:29:00.000-06:00

November 20- I got up and went to church at my old church. I wanted to visit and had been meaning to for a while. So when Toya texted me to come to church, I told her I would. I loved seeing old friends that I don't see often and the service was great as well. After lunch, I headed home to wash laundry before going into work that night.

she is so beautiful

Toya and I

Destiny and I

London and I

London showing off

Miss Priss

November 21- I went home after work to get ready for an appointment I had that morning. It seemed to take forever (2hrs). But, once it was all done, I was excited and pleased with the way everything went. Then I came home to sleep before going back to work.

before leaving

November 22- It's release day for Karen Kingsbury's new book Longing. I have been reading her books for years and I look forward to each one. I love having my Nook, because now I can download the book at midnight and it's ready to read instantly. Love that. After an extremely busy night at work, I got off that morning and headed to the Hills' for the day. I took the kids to see Happy Feet 2. It was really cute and I will probably see it again with Trey. The movie finished just in time for naptime. Their dad came home and I headed home as well. I read for a little while and was asleep before too long.

do a little singing

he had to sing as well

my "breakfast" that the kids cooked

rock stars

playing "DR"

heart check up

giving a shot

she thought this was so funny

a little light reading

loving her dip n dots

he wanted popcorn

even I had to get some dip n dots

we all wore MSU shirts/jacket

trying to get a good picture

silly kids

yep, really silly kids

November 23- I was off from both the hospital and the Hills' and I had plans to sleep in. After sleeping for 11hrs, I was wide awake at 5:00 am. The same time that my alarm always goes off. Go figure. So I stayed in bed and finished reading Longing. Such a good book. If you've never read any of Karen Kingsbury's book I suggest you start with the Redemption Series. It starts with Redemption. Absolutely life changing. Makes me want to start the series over from the beginning again. After getting up and dressed, I went out to go into town for a few things. Well, my car wouldn't start. I called a couple of places and nobody could get to it until Friday. I was thankful that at least Jametra and I work at the same place and would be going in together. She got dressed and we went shopping for a few hours. Or maybe more like 6. We bought a Christmas tree and some things to make a wreath. We picked up Hannah's dogs from the vet and took them to her house for her. Then we headed home. We both were sleepy, so we went to bed early.

Gunner

Jules

I tried the carmel brulee latte at Starbucks- my new favorite

A very busy Saturday

2011-11-26T02:35:00.000-06:00

November 19 was such a busy day for me. Trey came over really early so his mom could go to work. We had made plans to take pictures that day with my family. I went and got my hair done before the salon even opened. So thankful that my friend Shannon was able to do my hair that day. After getting my hair done, we went home to finish getting dressed. We met everyone at the location and spent the next two hours taking pictures. I had promised Trey that I would take him to ChuckE Cheese afterwards if he smiled and behaved. I'm hoping to get at least a couple of cute pictures for our Christmas card. After I took Trey back to his mom, I went home for a quick nap. Then I got ready for the Reba concert. I happen to love Reba. I just do. Jametra and I went. Amanda (my SIL) and her mom also came. After the concert, I found out that a lot of people I knew went. I took a LOT of pictures as usual, so I hope to not overload on pictures for this post. We had an absolute blast!!! I loved every minute of the concert. At the end, Reba even changed outfits to sing Fancy. Loved being able to see her in concert again. So much fun!

playing skee ball

driving the Nascar game

very excited to be at the concert

Amanda, her mom, and I

9th row from the stage

Up first was Eden's Edge:

Next up was Steel Magnolia with guest James Otto:

THE BAND PERRY:

and then REBA!!!!

LOVED the concert so much!

Nov. 11-18

2011-11-26T01:47:00.001-06:00

November 11- Happy Veteran's Day! I'm so thankful for all of those who fight for my freedom and their families. This morning, there was FROST on my car when I got off. Tay and I ran a few errands and got Anns from school. It was just another regular day around here. I met Hannah at the flea market for a quick look before work. So many cute Christmas things. I got some craft ideas! Now, if only I can find time to make some things. And another night at work for me.

frost

really cute "dot" items at Hobby Lobby- and look at Tay's face

Tay at lunch

I know what each of your days will contain, and I will empower you accordingly.-Jesus Calling

November 12- I slept in! I had to go to the bank before they closed. I had lunch at a sushi place in town that I had never ate at before. Several friends have suggested that I go there, so I thought I would try it out. It was good, but still not my favorite. Then it was back home for a nap before going back to work. I made a quick run into Walmart right before work. I was frustrated about not finding what I needed and really wasn't paying attention to what was going on around me. A man spoke to me and I spoke back, and I kept walking. Well, he stopped me and began talking to me. Now, I'm aware that God's timing is not our timing. And He can use the strangest places to chance your life. And who knows how this will turn out. I'm trying to be open and not be the aggressive one. I'm usually the take charge type of person and I don't want to push to hard to soon. I'm sure other women know what I'm talking about. So let's toast to me being laid back and taking it one step at a time.

the line at the bank was out the door- I waited for a long time

My kingdom is not about earning and deserving; it's about believing and receiving. -Jesus Calling

November 13- After church, I met my grandparents to eat lunch. I haven't done that in a while and it was great to catch up with them. At one point, I was watching the way they interacted. My PawPaw knew just how she wanted her cup and was helping her. It was so sweet. My grandmother is not in the best of health, and his actions made me long for a love that knows no bounds. Something so precious. One day, I have faith and believed that God has a husband with love abound for me. After lunch, I went to a friend's to watch some football. Yes- some football. I'm not sure of what to make of the "I love football now" stage I am in. But, for now I'm going to go with the flow. So Sunday afternoon football it was. Then I came home to go to bed.

cute little candle on my friend's table

I AM CHRIST in you, thee hope of glory.-Jesus Calling

November 14- When I got to the Hill's, Tay was eating some cereal. I told him to put up the container and I noticed it was taking him longer than usual. I asked him to come out. Well, I was not ready for what I saw. He had climbed on the stool and had eaten three oreos. I guess he wanted dessert with his breakfast. It was so funny! I love that kid. We did some "school work" and had a morning at home. He even helped make lunch. We picked Anns up a little early from gymnastics. Their great-grandfather had passed away and they were going to the visitation with their dad. So I got them dressed and ready to go. Then I headed home.

love this face

writing his name and numbers

concentrating

dressing up as a horse

just doing some painting

watching the potatoes heat up

Dare to see yourself as i see you: radiant in My righteousness, cleaned by My blood.-Jesus Calling

November 15- Another day in the neighborhood. I took Tay to school and tried to nap while I could. :) Then it was time to get kiddos from school. Everyone was really tired and we all took a great nap. I headed off to work that night.

Tay was hiding when I got there- but I found him

When we got home this is how I found Anns

And Tay was knocked out as well

When your mind moves toward a problem area, you tend to focus on that situation so intensely that you lose sight of Me.-Jesus Calling

November 16- Rain, rain, go away. When I left work, it was raining. Tay slept later than usual this morning, so I made chocolate chip muffins for breakfast. Just call me Martha Stewart. Ha, I used the mix that you simply add milk. He wanted to wear his raincoat and rainboots. Who was I to argue with? After dropping him off, I ran a couple of errands and went to pick up Anns from her 60% day. We had lunch and stopped by her mom's office for a few minutes. We went home to clean up some before heading to get Tay. Then, it was back to work that night for me.

yummy, yummy mini muffins

ready to face the rain

hiding from me after naptime- he had built this "cage" with the pillows

such a sweet girl

Although I inhabit all of space and time, you can communicate with Me only here and now.-Jesus Calling

November 17- After dropping Tay off at school, I ran a few errands for myself and Dr. Hill. It's also her mom's birthday, so Happy Birthday to Nana. I met my friend Bethany and baby Grey for lunch while she was in town. We sat at the restaurant for three hours just catching up. Normally, I would have taken a nap during that time; but must admit holding Grey was totally worth it. I love that I got to spend those moments with Bethany and loved seeing her and Grey. Then, it was back to carpool lines for me. And that night I went to bed very early.

ran into Hobby Lobby for this cake pan

sweet baby

he is smiling

a big boy already

Not many Christians know how to live in this radical freedom, which is their birthright.-Jesus Calling

November 18- Jametra, Tay, and I went to a nearby town and looked at some couch/loveseats that we are thinking about getting. We then went to lunch. Tay and I got Anns from school. Once, their dad came home, I ran home to get dressed to go to dinner with Jametra in Memphis. We ate at Texas de Brazil downtown. It's where she wanted to eat for her birthday dinner. We had a great time.

we saw my grandparents at a store and I had to stop and say hi

Tay and I at lunch

The birthday girl and I

Stay in touch with me, even during your busiest moments.-Jesus Calling

November 6-10

2011-11-18T15:32:00.000-06:00

November 6- It was a great service at church. After church, Jametra and Sade' (and her two boys) went to lunch together. Now, I happen to love the fellowship of Sunday lunch. Especially with great company. After lunch I picked up Hannah for an afternoon movie. Just the two of us. After taking her home, I came home for a nap before going to work. Then it was off to work.

the boys

beautiful

Many people's decisions are a combination of their habitual responses and their desire to please themselves or others.-Jesus Calling

November 7- As I was leaving work, I saw a gorgeous tree. I am loving the fall colors and weather right now. Tay and I had another day at home. We went to lunch and then to pick up Anns. She still isn't feeling so great and wasn't going to gymnastics that day. Then later it was off to work for me.

we tried out the new frozen yogurt place. I happen to like Tutti Frutti better though

Worship Me in the beauty of holiness. All true beauty reflects some of who I AM. -Jesus Calling

November 8- I took Tay man to school and took a nap. I picked up Trey, Tay, and Anns from school. On the way home, we stopped at the city hall so that I could vote. The kids were very well behaved. A woman said that they were the best kids that had been in there today. I said thanks. After naptime, we got ready for Anns's soccer game. After the game, I took Trey to meet his mom and went home to bed.

made a run through here- it's so good!

trying to take a picture of kids outside of city hall

with three kids- I am fighting a losing battle

soccer time

her favorite place to be- in the goal

the boys brought their own entertainment

Although you and your circumstances may change dramatically, I remain the same throughout time and eternity. -Jesus Calling

November 9- It was post call day for Dr. Hill. She asked me if I would help clean out the pantry and kitchen. She knows I love organizing things. So after I took Tay to school, I came back and helped her. She did a great job with parting of things that she doesn't use. I was very proud. We put away the new things she got from her Pampered Chef party. So much fun. And the great thing about is was that I got some things out of this deal as well. So thankful! To me it was a really good day. I don't often get to spend time with just her and I happen to love her as a boss and a friend. So glad that God joined our paths almost 3 yrs ago. She and her family have been such a blessing in my life.

cleaning out

I love organization

new pots and pans

these are so pretty and shiny- Now time to cook in them

When a future-oriented worry assails you, capture it and disarm it by suffusing the Light of My Presence into that mental image.- Jesus Calling

November 10- After taking Tay to school, I met Marquita and Trey at the doctor office for her checkup. Everything looks great. Ella's heartbeat was loud and strong. I'm getting ready for her to make her arrival. After that appointment, I had a meeting to attend. Then it was off to get kiddos from school. And then work that night.

"my" baby bump

waiting for the dr to come in

got her glucose drink

we had to wait for an hour for the drink to process and then have her labs taken- so Trey decided to play musical chairs in the waiting room

of course, we made him put them up

got to work and saw this in the newspaper- I'm very sad that I will be missing that concert

Any day can be a good day, because My Presence permeates all the time. -Jesus Calling