What you all have been waiting for...

Finally I have some house pics. Still working on things, but it looks much better than before. Mom is making more window coverings this week, so hopefully I can get better pics then. Photography and lighting is terrible, I know, but I was tired and it was dark. There are lists upon lists of little things still to be done I could record with each pic, but I don't have time and I just wanted to humor you guys for now!

This is the kitchen before... And after... (new fridge soon I hope!)



Dining room before...And after... Window coverings in the works...


Living room before and after...





Hall--doesn't look much different. We just painted, but will be putting down wood flooring in here too.



Hall Bath! Can we say WHOA! This project was the one that I thought would never end. One thing kept leading to another, but I am so happy with the way it turned out!








My craft room!






Guest Bedroom... Blinds should be installed this week.





My room still looks about the same. I'm trying to get everything else done and then work on my room. I would have at least taken pics, but it was a MESS--laundry all over the place! Maybe during Christmas break I'll get to it!

Hope everyone is doing well! Have a great week!

=P

Be joyful always, pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

So, what's up with you?

So, I’ve been thinking about writing a blog for ever so long. I even started one a couple of weeks ago. Needless to say, it never got finished. I can’t think of any earth shaking events or even any clever topics to write about, so I’ll just make a list of the things I’ve been doing to keep me busy since the last blog.

1. Trying to teach. New job is still great, but it is definitely hard work.

2. (drum roll, please…) Moving in to my house! Still making it look presentable, but will take pics asap!
3. Working on my house. It’s livable, but nowhere near done. We are trying to finish up the current projects on the inside, then start on the outside. The lovely cool weather makes the outdoor projects MUCH more bearable!

4. Enjoying the sunrise on my drive to school each morning. When I see things like that, I KNOW there is an AWESOME GOD. Who else could make something so beautiful and perfect?

5. Trying not to fall asleep on my drive home… LOL! It’s not really that bad, but I do get tired sometimes. A friend told me she read something about apples giving you more energy than the caffeine in a cup of coffee. Maybe it’s a coincidence, but I deliberately ate apples several days and didn’t get tired out on the way home. Give it a try… It’s worth a shot.

6. Working at Ballyhoo. I was scheduled every other Saturday, but somehow I can’t remember the last Saturday I was off. It’s fun and I get a discount though, so I really don’t mind.

7. Buying new furniture. I bit the bullet and bought a new sofa and chair. It wasn’t my first choice, but it’s the first choice I could afford without having to sell any of my vital organs. I do like it a lot.

8. Attending jury duty (on my fall break…Boo!). I got out of this civic service last time by playing the teacher card, but I felt obligated to go this time since I didn’t have school. After hearing the case, I was SO glad not to get selected. I had to go back another day and the attorney forgot to show up… Maybe he skipped the course on attendance. Anyway… I didn’t have to stay long that day either, so all was well and I did my civic duty.

9. Spending entirely too much time checking my friends status updates on Facebook mobile… It is not fun not having internet. Ughhhh.

10. Trying to think of things to write a blog about. Obviously, this is a stretch since I am pulling at straws to come up with a list of things I’ve done lately.

I promise, once I get “settled in” (if that ever happens), I hope to write more. I really miss it. I hope all my loyal readers are doing well. Maybe I won’t be a letdown too much longer!

=P

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Hebrews 11:1

Just some pics...

I don't have time to write, but I'll be writing soon and hopefully posting pics from the house! Yay! I have been so busy, but made time for the beach this weekend. AWESOME. As I walked the beach at night I really wondered how people can NOT believe there is a God. Stuff like that doesn't just happen. Anyway... Maybe that will be in the next blog.

Here are a couple pics from the weekend and some paintings I did recently.



I'll post some pics with people later!

Just a short one...

Well, sorry guys! I haven't written in a while. It has been crazy busy for me since I left McComb and there is no sign of a slow down in sight! I am soon going to post pics of the house I've been working on. I know you guys think I'm making it all up, but I will have pics for proof shortly. Obviously I have the before pics, but I am still waiting on the afters (you would think I was outside my mind for tackling the project if I posted the before shots... I'm beginning to believe it myself at this point). Thankfully, we only have to put the flooring in two rooms down now and I'll be able to move in, God willing. I could take some pics and show you what is done as of now, but you wouldn't be able to see much because all my things are piled up in the two rooms that are finished. I now wonder how I had so much stuff in a one bedroom apartment... I mean, I've completely furnished a three bedroom, two bath home. I can't wait to get it all fixed up and settled. I love my family, but I also love having my own place... Since the house is just down the road from mom and dad, I've got the best of both worlds.

The new job is going well, but is also challenging. I love the course and I have some really great students. The facilities are awesome and the teachers I know are really nice. Unfortunately I only know a very small percentage of the teachers here. There are nearly 100! I think I know about fifteen. That is quite an adjustment, but I keep reminding myself that I didn't get to know everyone at my other schools very quickly either.

I am so thankful for all the great things that are going on in my life and in the lives of those around me. I have SO many friends who have new, healthy babies and several with healthy pregnancies and hopefully healthy babies to come. I have friends with beautiful healthy families. People who have been laid off are finding employment. Unfortunately, I know several people going through struggles as well, but the beauty is that even through those struggles, they see a positive side. It is simply amazing. I am most certainly thankful for all the great things going on in my life right now--a list too long to detail. I say all that to say this--there are a lot of bad things going on in our world and it is very possible these things affect us in a big way, but when we step back and really look at things, blessings abound. We have to have perspective. It's hard sometimes, but necessary. We are blessed beyond measure even when we are undeserving. And that, above all, is something to be thankful for.

I think I've lost my diplomas... my mind isn't far behind!

So, anyone who knows anything about education knows Harry Wong. Since I was starting a new school and wanted to make a good impression, I thought it might be good to brush up on my beginning of school dog and pony show. So, as any good teacher would do, I dusted off the old Harry book, The First Days of School. I listed all my rules and procedures, made my classroom appealing, fixed a nice bulletin board and even threw up a couple silk plants to make my atmosphere more welcoming (he actually said real ones, but I figured green silk ones were better than brown real ones). Harry also suggested putting up a bulletin board describing yourself. I had the best of intentions, I really did, but that board just didn't get done. Instead I grabbed a couple pictures out of my boxes of stuff that haven't been unpacked, through down a table cloth (that I made) and set up a display... That's much better than a stinking bulletin board (and easier). Harry also suggests displaying your diplomas to establish credibility with the students (and to let them know that even though they may be pretty smart, none of them paid as much as you did for education... You know, remind the little angels to be grateful.) Anyway, in an effort to fulfull Harry's commands so that I can have a perfect year, I thought I could hang my diplomas on the wall. Well, as all of you know, for me, finding things is a task easier said than done right now. My life is in boxes in a house that is not currently livable. I am happy to report, however, that I do have a pot to pee in now though. Dad got one toilet in place and working last night! Yay! So anyway... I was trying to find my diplomas so that I could hang them in my class room. I could not find them anywhere! I looked through all my boxes and saw no sign of them! Who does that? Things have been so crazy lately and this is the icing on the cake. I have lost my diplomas... pittiful!

I am happy to report that I think I'm seeing the light at the end of the tunnel with my licensure dilemma. Finally I was able to speak with someone Thursday who said it was "very likely" I will get a license for this year. THANK GOODNESS! Sub pay for the year would have been t-e-r-r-i-b-l-e! (I'm sorry if you don't know what I'm talking about. Just trust me when I say it's a long story that has kept me so occupied I haven't had time to blog lately.)

And finally, I am SO thankful for this new job! The kids are so different from what I was accustomed to. The facilities are amazing and, of course, I just love Hattiesburg. I know that a good year is awaiting me and I thank God for giving me the courage to wait for this job. I am still amazed by His work and what He will do if you just ask.

The God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.
1 Peter 5:10

*sidenote* God never ceases to amaze me. Usually, I just search for a "verse of the day" to put at the end of my blog. Nine times out of ten the first one I find seems to be so fitting to what I'm going through or what I've written about... Gotta love the awesome irony there! God is the best author of all time!

Catching up...

This is going to be a fun (not really) couple of days ahead for me... I will be packing my apartment and moving. Usually moving is okay. I hate packing and unpacking, but the excitement of being in a new home is kinda fun. I don't even have a home this time though. I'm moving back in with mom and dad until the house I'm going to live in is finished. So far we (I) have painted the living room, kitchen and dining area, one bedroom, and I've started the foyer and hall. Madelyn has helped and my cousin Rebecca came down one day and helped too. My dad has done so much work! We ripped up all the carpet, and let me tell you it was NASTY! Under that nasty carpet were several rotten floor boards. He has replaced many of the them. He had to take both toilets out to replace the floor boards there. So now, I don't have a pot to pee in... LITERALLY! I should be getting floor covering Monday--carpet in the two bedrooms and linoleum in the bathrooms. I'll have to post the before pics soon--the house was a MESS! It's getting better little by little, much slower than I had hoped, but hopefully it will be worth all the wait in a month or two.

When I haven't been working on the house, or working at work, I have been doing some more painting... Here are some of the latest.

This pic isn't that great... It looks SO much better in person.


This one really isn't crooked... It's just the angle at which the picture was taken.


I was making a canvas for Mary Morgan (Amy's bundle of love, arriving in 3-4 weeks)... I just didn't like this one, so I might try to sell it on ebay or something.


This pic isn't so great, but the acutual painting turned out better.


So now I am in McComb, packing my apartment (and writing blogs). I never cease to amaze myself with all the "stuff" I have. I am not sure how some made it through the last move. I have found things that were of no significance at all. Why on earth have I kept them for so long? And furthermore, why did I make the effort to move them last year when I moved here? I mean, really, how many bottles of scented lotion and body splash (that I don't even use) does one person need? And why do I still have notebooks from college? I haven't looked at the things in at least four years. What makes me think I'll one day get the urge to revisit Dr. Browning's lecture on Piaget's Developmental Stages? I can be such a pack rat... And don't even let me get started on my closet. I have clothes I haven't worn in years, but every year I think, "I'm gonna wear this sometime this year." I have got to minimize my wardrobe, and by minimize I don't mean wear skimpier or smaller clothes. I don't have room for clutter in my life and that includes my closet. In all of my clutter though, I must admit, I find some good "stuff." I found my notebook of essays from comp I. Rereading some of them is HILARIOUS. And some of them are really good. I might just have to post one (since my four readers have complained of my lack of blogging). I'll get all caught up this weekend. One (that will never get posted, or even described in detail to anyone) was actually about me and the guy I had been dating. WHAT WAS I THINKING? I'm embarassed for me back then. Who writes a paper to turn in for a grade about a relationship that lasted a month? It was really pathetic and I see how much I have changed. But other ones make realize I'm still the me I've always been. Hopefully, the changes have been for the better... Anyway, I said all that to get to this point... I hope I keep this blog up for a while. Ten years from now I'll probably read this archive and laugh... or wonder what that essay was or who I was dating. I never faithfully kept a journal, but I surely have gotten a kick out of the random entries I did write (I think I actully shredded most of them after laughing). We forget so much and take so many little things for granted. I hope this helps me keep up with what was going on and who was doing what. And maybe now that I'm getting back in a routine with school quickly approaching, I'll make more time for keeping up with my blogging!

=P

Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.
Hebrews 13:2

pics of my latest paintings...

So, here are my paintings as promised…

This is the first one I did a while back… It was supposed to be a birthday gift for Vallery, but another friend wanted to buy it… So, maybe it was wrong, but I sold it to her. Note to self: get Vallery another present.


We went to another painting class for mom’s birthday and this is what we did. I loved it! You should check out www.easelyamused.blogspot.com... Super cute stuff and fun too!



I really LOVE the Brushfire Crosses and have been working on that technique… Here are my first feeble attempts at that look. The first one is really messy, but I like the second one. It turned out much better.

I'm in the land of no internet... Sorry...

Whoah! I have a LOT of catching up to do… Let me see if I can condense this. (Sorry in advance if it doesn’t make sense.) I’ll back up a few weeks. I quit my job at McComb and had no leads on any other jobs. I moved back in with my parents and began working at the bank… I’m the old faithful fill in there. Since I had no clues about a “real” job, I picked up another part time job at Ballyhoo—a very cute gift shop in between Magee and Mendenhall. Mom and Dad recently bought a house up to road and the original plan was for me to fix it up and buy it. Having no job, however, put a kink in those plans… After much calculating, I figured out that if I got a room mate, I could move out of my parents house and still support myself working a lower paying job.

When school got out I frantically began filling out job applications for anything and everything. I have never taken such a leap of faith… But, I’ve never felt more at peace about a decision than I did when I left McComb. It was looking pretty dismal and I was beginning to think I was going to be really broke for the next year. I proceeded with life as usual. I began working in the house in the evenings and working my other jobs during the day. Let me tell you, IT IS HOT ALREADY! The air wasn’t working in the house. Of course, the side with the most windows is the west side of the house, so when I was there working in the evenings, the setting sun was beaming through. I really think it was 110 degrees in there on several occasions.

One night I was up there working and a friend from McComb called and told me of an opening for Fashion and Interior Design in Lamar County. I was so excited I could hardly stand it! I wanted to go down to the Superintendent’s office and wait for him to get there so that I could beg for the job immediately. Knowing that option probably wouldn’t aid my credibility, I waited patiently to call the principal the next day. I called and he seemed interested. We swapped a few emails and he called me to set up an interview. I went down there for the interview and I thought I would be really nervous, but I wasn’t. I have a whole blog for that story though. Anyway… the interview went well and he told me he would let me know something in a few weeks. I was so surprised when he called me three days later and offered me the job! What a blessing! So now I have a job! YAY!

I’m still working at the bank and Ballyhoo. I work at the bank to get free checks and at Ballyhoo to get the employee discount! You always have to look for those “unseen benefits” when selecting your jobs. The extra money doesn’t hurt either though… Mom and Dad are relieved that I found a job. I think they thought I was going into reverse mode and would move back in and make them support me forever. For now, I’m still planning on living in the house and driving to Hattiesburg each day. I know it a long drive, but I really don’t feel like looking for an apartment or anything else right now. We’ll see how this goes for a while and reassess the situation later if necessary.

Oh… Most exciting thing of the summer… besides the new job. I have been doing some painting. I have pics of my stuff. Unfortunately right now I am using dial up internet and I will be forever uploading pics if I try to do it from here. I shall post some of those later as well as my blog about this new job…

Later! Come see me at Ballyhoo! I work Tuesdays and Saturdays

HOW ON EARTH COULD I FORGET THIS? The benefit for Travis was AWESOME! We sold 1400 steak plates and collected numerous donations. Thanks to everyone who contributed. That should really help them out!

Be still and know that I am God
Psalm 46:10
(in other words, sit down, shut up, and listen!)

What is wrong with this world?

So, this morning I was watching the Today Show and the biggest headlines were these: Susan Boyle is having a breakdown, Jon and Kate (as of plus 8)are having another crisis, and the woman who faked a kidnapping and is accused of embezzling money has posted a $100,000 bond. NEWSFLASH! Anyone thrown into the spotlight being discussed in the way Susan Boyle was is very likely to have anxiety about it all. Airing your marital problems for all of America to see and discuss isn't going to help anything. AND HELLO! If I had embezzled lots of money, I could probably post $100,000 for bail too! What on earth is going on in this world? If that's the earth shattering news that makes national headlines, I or someone I know should make the news pretty soon. Which of the following stories might be most newsworthy?

Last Friday I resigned from my job. I know, I know... People resign every day. However, most people have a replacement job or some other plan in place. I don't have a job or a great plan. I do have a plan, but like I said, it's not great. If all else fails, I'll move back in with mom and dad and work somewhere where I can make enough to get by.

I have been diligently searching for a new job to no avail. Unfortunately, many schools cannot hire new teachers because they don't have a finalized budget for next year thanks to the legislature. Here's a news story. Most people who are given a specific amount of time to complete a job MUST get the work done in the allotted time. If they fail to meet deadlines, they are penalized. I find it quite amusing that the government is now operating is a completely opposite way. They did not get all of their work done during regular sessions so they just get extensions of time with no penalty. Not only do the get no penalty, they get paid extra! I would love to not meet deadlines and get paid extra to go work additional hours. Maybe the next story will be "FRUSTRATED TEACHER GOES POSTAL AND STORMS EMERGENCY SESSION." I think I am ready for my fifteen minutes of fame... And hopefully I won't buckle like ole Susie girl... Or maybe I should. I think it would add some spice to the story.

Here's another story. This lady should be nominated for Employee of the Year. I called one school district to talk to the person in charge of recruiting teachers. I tried for a solid week to speak to this lady. I left messages which were not answered. I spoke with the secretary who was very friendly and helpful in telling me the openings. I began to think I could possibly get certified to teach one of the positions so I called back to see exactly what I needed to do. Well finally I was able to speak to the recruiter. She in no less words told me that it was a little late for me to be calling and anyone who had the least interest in the school district had already come to a job fair and applied. She told me I could still apply, but I would be put at the bottom of the list! Ok, it's not like I was talking to someone in an elite district. This place is average at best... No wonder... Teachers make the district and if she speaks to all the candidates the way she spoke to me, many probably run in the other direction. It's ridiculous and sad that she is the voice of the district. There's a news story--MYSTERY UNVEILED! School district can't find good teachers because the recruiter is not good at her job!

And finally... Here is the most touching story of all... Seriously. It's newsworthy to me, but unfortunately happens to many every day, so chances of getting publicity from this are nil. My cousin and friend, Travis Stringer is suffering from a rare form of cancer called Ewing Sarcoma. It is a cancer that is in the soft tissues of the body and can show up anywhere in the body. He is a husband and father of two small children. He is a hard worker. Everyday that he isn't in the hospital or really sick, he goes to work. He would do anything to help anyone and would never ask for anything in return. He travels frequently to MD Anderson in Houston for treatments. He is incurring many medical and travel expenses. Some friends wanted to do something to help so we are planning a plate sale. Saturday, June 20, from 11am to 2pm at the five way stop in Magee we will be selling thin sliced ribeye steak plates. It will include an 8 ounce ribeye, baked beans, potato salad, roll, and dessert for $10. All proceeds will go to Travis and his family to help with those travel and medical expenses. If you would like a ticket, please call me or leave a comment. I'll get it to you... Also, a donation account has been set up for them at People's Bank if you or anyone you know is interested in making a donation. I know everyone can't help monetarily, but your prayers would also be greatly appreciated. Please continue to remember Travis and his family, as well as the ones providing him with treatment and care.

Now I wish I was famous... If I were Kate or Susan Boyle, don't you think we would have a better turnout? But then again, it's times like these, when there are so many things you want that you don't know what to want first. Ultimately, I want Travis to be all better regardless of the finances and fame. But I can do nothing more than pray for that, so I guess helping in this way is the next best thing. And most likely, I'm never gonna make the national news for anything. I'm just a small town girl trying to get by and help people when I can. The fliers I put up, the emails I send, and the announcement on my blog will have to take the place of national publicity. I think it will suffice though because there is nothing like the support of a small town. It is the best and I know this will be a success because of that...

=P

Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Galatians 6:2

feeling creative lately...

So, I started writing a blog about my trip to the beach with the family mother's day weekend, but I've been so busy I haven't had time to finish it. To sum it all up, I LOVE the beach and had a GREAT time. Whew, glad I can check that off my list of things to do.

Prior to going to the beach, mom, Madelyn, and I went to a painting class in Ridgeland. It was so much fun and inspired me to paint more. I am still waiting on mom to email me the pic of our art from that day, but here are some of the things I have done since then... They were baby shower gifts. I'm thinking about doing some to sell. If you or anyone you know are interested, send me a message or leave a comment.




And these are some wreaths I made for baby presents also... Over the top for some, but that's just my style! :)

Just a quick note...

Well, life has been relatively quiet this week... THANK GOODNESS. I have only had a couple of nervous breakdowns lately, so that's good. School is winding down and that has me singing the Hallelujah Chorus! I had a weekend of rest (and nasty weather) last weekend to prepare me for the next four weekends with all kinds of activities... This weekend mom, Madelyn, and I are going to a mother's day painting class at Easely Amused in Ridgeland. (Check out their website www.easelyamused.com and let me know when you want to go with me.) Then we are leaving from there to go to DESTIN (be very jealous!). I can't wait. I'm still a bit white and pastey though, so I'll either only be able to stay in the sun for short periods of time or will come back looking like a lobster. Either way it should be really fun!

I hope all is well for you guys! I LOVE MY READERS! Miss you!

=P

I have good news and bad news...

I have good news and bad news to report.

So, this weekend was going to be the weekend I began taking pictures again. For some reason, I haven’t taken any pictures all year long. That makes me really sad because I really love taking pictures and I really really love looking at them over and over again. This weekend I went to Nashville to see the Dave Mathews Band concert. I was dreading the ride because last week was the longest and most tiring week of my life. However, it turned out to be a great trip—that’s the good news. Unfortunately I didn’t get to take any pictures because the weekend was pretty blurry or hazy—that’s the bad news. Continue reading for more details (no, this isn’t a good article… it doesn’t answer the five w’s in the first paragraph, sorry).

We began the weekend one short. We bought four tickets to the concert. Vallery, Joseph, Shane and I had planned on going. Monday brought forth a slight change of plans for us all though as Shane nearly cut his toe off with a chainsaw. He was in the hospital for a large part of the week and had just been released Thursday. Needless to say, he wasn’t quite up to par for our weekend trip. We were down to three for the concert and two for the ride to Nashville.

I was so tired driving to Madison to meet Joseph. I wasn’t sure if I could stay awake to drive to TN, so I asked Joseph to drive. I thought that was a pretty good plan and thought maybe I could take some pictures along the way. Good plan, yes; pictures, no. Joseph is a great driver, but I think he was trying to act like we were driving at Talladega rather than rural Mississippi and Tennessee. I didn’t have to worry about falling asleep and missing any of the scenery. We got to Nashville (safely, thank goodness) before I could even think about going to sleep. Unfortunately every time I wanted to snap a picture, the scenery was gone by the time I got my camera ready. Then I thought back to an episode of Friends (which I reference almost daily). Pheobe said part of her oath as a masseuse was to always be prepared. Taking great wisdom from Phebes, I kept my camera out and ready so I wouldn’t miss another shot. That plan really didn’t work so well either though because we were going so fast everything was blurry. So, I put my camera away and vowed to take pics once I got there.

We arrived, ate, and then crashed—well, that’s what Joseph and I did. Vallery was spinning like the Tasmanian devil all weekend. She spent the entire weekend cooking and cleaning and then cooking some more. I really think she spent more time cooking than sleeping this weekend—exactly the kind of host I prefer! The food was great. She had already prepared lasagna for supper Friday night and breakfast casserole for brunch Saturday. She says she’s been taking cooking classes, but over the course of the weekend I began to question that. I don’t think she would ever just lie about it, but I wonder if she really meant that she’s been paying someone to come cook for her and the cook shows her how to do some stuff every once in a while. That could be a “cooking class” right?

I would have never doubted her, but a few pieces of the story just don’t add up. First, the two meals we had were flawless. But, they were prepared ahead of time—I think the person from the “cooking class” could have done those. I might possibly overlook that but this second thing sealed the deal. Vallery began to cook us lunch Saturday afternoon. I thought that would be a great time to take some pics of us chilling out and her perfecting her Cajun cuisine (that she learned about in this “cooking class”). Wouldn’t you know, just as I got my camera out, the smoke detectors started sounding. I didn’t know what to do. I was about to stop, drop, and roll. I looked in the kitchen and there she was trying to fan down the smoke that has filled the entire room. I had my camera out and ready, but couldn’t get any pics through that smoke filled room. I knew two things then: Vallery needed a personal tutor at all times in her “cooking class” and I had to take pictures at the concert.

After 30 minutes of airing out, we were finally able to go back in the apartment without Cajun pork flavored smoke filling our lungs. We ate (and it was actually good) and left for the concert, camera in my hand. We got to our seats and the concert began. We watched Jason Mraz and then waited for Dave Mathews. The stadium began filling up—there must have been 45,000 people there. The sun went down and the lights went off. YAY! Dave Mathews! Then I remembered my camera. They started doing some really cool lighting effects and I decided I wanted to take some pictures then. As I reached for my camera I smelled a strange smell… Not quite like a cigarette or cigar. I looked around and saw the people a couple rows down passing a joint around. Needless to say, those pictures were quite hazy with marijuana smoke floating all around… I put my camera up and enjoyed the amazing show. The musical talent was AWESOME!

We went home, crashed again and I was bound and determined to do two things—keep Vallery out of the kitchen Sunday morning and take some pictures before I left. I got up and went to get strawberries and juice for breakfast. I had planned to make everyone some pancakes. I warned them that my pancakes weren’t the prettiest, but they tasted alright. Vallery then came to try and show me how to make pretty pancakes. Of course, I knew she hadn’t been to a pancake “cooking class” so I told her not to worry about it; I would be ok. I made all the pancakes and had just a bit more batter left. I was so proud of myself because they weren’t even that ugly. I poured the last batter in the pan, smiling because I made pretty pancakes. Sadly, that didn’t last long. I looked around and noticed things looked hazy. I thought it might have been déjà vu or flashbacks. But then I smelled my pancakes burning. What a let down! Who smokes up the kitchen making pancakes? I quickly dumped those pancakes in the trash can. Thankfully, I didn’t set the smoke alarm off, but my last photo op was effectively ruined. Once again, the beautiful and fun weekend was filled with clouds. Maybe I need some "cooking classes" too.

Even though I didn’t get any great pictures, I had a great time. I’ll find some links to Nashville, Jason Mraz, and Dave Mathews band sites to keep my memories alive. If you would like to see them, I’ll send them to you too.

I hope you have a good week…



=P

:Humor is by far the most significant activity of the human brain."
Edward De Bono

*While some parts of the story may be exaggerated, it is all based on a true story and inspired by actual events. Contrary to what it may sound like, Vallery was an awesome hostess and she really can cook (some things).

25 Random Things... for my READERS!

Ok, so I just found out that I have a loyal band of readers... I must admit though you guys have given me some writers block. I had all kinds of ideas for a blog, but I can't remember them now... But, being the dependable person that I am, I have found something entertaining to post. This was a note from facebook that I think everyone on facebook did a couple months ago. It was fun to do and even more fun to read everyone elses random facts... So here ya go! Thanks for reading!



1. I recently left a place that I love and people that I love to take a job I thought I would love... Unfortunately, I do not love my job.

2. I was once questioned by the police because they thought I stole someone's identity.

3. My sister is one of my best friends but we only when we aren't living together.

4. When I saw the trailer for 27 Dresses I seriously thought someone had made a movie about my life.

5. I have a system of organization even though my stuff often looks messy.

6. I believe there is a direct relationship between a person's creativity and a her need for (or lack there of) tidyness.

7. I love to sew. My grandmother was a great seamstress as is my mom, but the skill wasn't passed on to me from them. I had to take a class in college to learn.

8. I am a procrastinator, but I see it as being able to work well under pressure.

9. My all time favorite job is being a teller.

10. Sometimes I completely and unintentionally block out memories of things in my life that didn't go well.

11. My favorite pen to write with is a Pilot P-700. Don't even think about borrowing it.

12. I still like to color. I think it is relaxing.

13. I love the smell of new books, crayons, and fresh cut grass... but not all at the same time.

14. Growing up, we went on a family vacation every year that I can remember but I travelled more in 2005 than I have all the other years of my life combined.

15. When I was in grad school I stressed more when I was taking two easy classes than I did when I took three more difficult classes.

16. I was in marching and concert band for nine years and loved it. I secretly miss it sometimes.

17. I made so many good friends in band.

18. I hate dating. The beginning days of uncertainty are the worst. I would much rather be single or in a relationship.

19. My first major in college was sports medicine.

20. I learned the hard way that in many parts of Asia they don't use toilet paper and the toilets don't flush.

21. I went on a cruise once and vowed to never go on one again. Nothing bad happened and I didn't get sick or anything, I just didn't like it.

22. I love getting flowers for no reason at all and would rather have a cheap, thoughtful and creative gift than some ellaborate or expensive gift that means nothing and shows no thought.

23. I spend at least fourty dollars every time i go into a book store but I have many books on my bookshelf that I have never read.

24. I can't stand to have the volume, temperature, or anything else with visible numbers set on any odd number except multiples of five. It has to be even numbers or something that ends with five.

25. I got a fortune cookie today that I really believe. It made me smile.

Is it really just Tuesday?

It really feels like it should be at least Thursday. I'm not sure why, but this has been the longest week already. I'm so tired. And now I'm complaining. I'll quit now. On a brighter note, progress reports come out this week. Normally I don't get too excited about that, but this means we are halfway through this nine weeks. That doesn't excite me either, but this is the last nine weeks. So, what excites me is that we only have about four and a half weeks left of school. I CAN'T WAIT! This might be the most highly anticipated summer in my teaching career.

I haven't had much going on lately and therefore lack entertainment value for you guys. Hopefully I can come up with something good to write about soon. I'm going to Nashville this weekend to go see Dave Matthews and Jason Mraz. I can't wait... But quite honestly, if I don't get some energy before then I might just sleep through the concert. Maybe I should go get some vitamins.

Well, I suppose I'll quit my little rambling session. I'll write again when I have some noteworthy topics...

=P
"A heart is judged not by how much you love, but by how much you are loved by others."
The Wizard of Oz

So, I don't have much time, but I just have to share a pic of my latest project. My friend Amy just found out she was having a girl. I was so excited because all my friends that had babies recently had boys. While I like little boys too, girls are so much more fun to make stuff for. Anyway... As soon as Amy text me and told me it was a girl I had my trip to the fabric store planned. Got the stuff Saturday, began to work Sunday, finished it Monday! Here are the pics!





Will post more (for all of my faithful readers) later!

Tales of a trip home

So, I went to Magee this weekend. It was the first time I went there since the day I visited after the tornado. What a disaster site! I can't believe it. It's so sad to me to see those places of total destruction. But everyone is coping very well. Corinth had sunrise services Sunday morning on the slab of their church just like that was what happened every day. It's amazing to see peoples' resilience. People are trying to return to normalcy as best they can.

I love being able to spend time with family and loved ones. Its such a great feeling. Being so far away, I feel like I miss out on a lot. I know, I know. I have friends here and I'm only 90-100 miles from my closest friends and family back home, but it's more than I've ever done before and I'm adjusting. Anyway... It was a nice trip home and spending time with friends and family makes me realize I have so much to be thankful for. They are the best!

Next subject... Yesterday began week four of boot camp! I thought it would get easier as the weeks went on... Oh no. Coach Gayden knows our thoughts and bodies. She knows we can do more now than three weeks ago and she is definately taking advantage of it. It was the hardest work out thus far. It was great but I'm sore and still tired. I hope to run some on my own this afternoon. I am determined to make myself a runner one day!

I hope everyone had a great weekend and Easter! Let's remember the meaning of easter and celebrate it every day... What an awesome gift!

=P

"Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end."

Tales of Springtime!

Wow... It's been a while since I posted something so I thought I'd write about some random stuff today! This week has been super busy. I have been going to a "boot camp" exercise program that the school district is providing for us. It has been so much fun. We have it three times a week, but for various reasons each week I have only been able to make it twice. This week doesn't look like its going to be any exception. My legs are hurting and I know I'm being a wimp, but I feel like I need to give them another day before I start killing those muscles again. Plus I have a lot of stuff I need to do this afternoon. But, it does seem that going to boot camp or doing any kind of exercise makes me more productive in the evening. It's a bit strange that exhausting myself like that actually makes me feel better and gives me more energy. But whatever... I guess it's a greatly appreciated mystery to me.

This weekend I decided to go to Baton Rouge since I had never been there. I wanted to go to the outlet mall in Gonzales first so I printed out directions. Of course I left the directions at home, but I had looked at them so I thought I could find it... How wrong I was! After calling Vallery to get directions, I still rode around lost for over an hour. Apparently she said go left and for some reason, I thought she meant go right. Who would have thought that she did in fact mean for me to go left? Anyway... Thank goodness for mapquest and cell phones... Otherwise I would probably still be riding around south Louisiana. I found the mall, shopped a while, and then went to the famous Strawberry festival in Ponchatoula. There are no words to describe that... Well, no nice words. Let me just say this--people who speak so lowly of Mississippi obviously have never ever been to Louisiana.

As this week comes to a close we are one week closer to summer! YAY! I haven't started the official countdown yet, but it's coming soon! I can't wait. I hope all (two) of you are doing well and have a safe and happy Easter!

=P

"He is not here. For He has risen..."
Matthew 28:6

Praising God in the Storm

It's amazing how awesome God's power is and the ways that He shows that power to His people.

This morning I woke up because the weather was so bad. The fact that I woke up in the middle of the night shows His enormous power in and of itself considering the fact that I sleep like a rock. Anyway... I turned on the television to see if we had any bad weather going through Pike County (because I needed a meteorologist to tell me that thunder and lightening so loud and bright to wake me up was in fact bad weather) but all I saw was updates about Simpson County and Magee. From what I could tell the spotted tornado was on a direct path for my parents' home. Worried that I might wake them up, I contemplated calling. Then I decided it was me or the tornado and they probably would rather hear it from me. So I called and mom told me the power had gone out in the last minute or two. I still didn't really think anything of it because they seemed fine. They didn't say anything about the "freight train" sound all the rednecks from the trailor park talk about when the news reporters interview the small town's finest tornado survivors. The cell phones were working... I mean, as long as that's working, what other problems could there be? I called a few more friends and continued to watch the news. Everyone seemed to be ok and I called mom and dad back after the weather man said the tornado was out of Simpson County. They were fine, as were my other friends. No big deal.

This morning after I got up and tried to begin getting dressed I was swamped with phone calls from friends and family. I hadn't even turned on the television, so I had no clue how wrong I was about this tornado. My aunt called to see if I had heard from mom and dad. She said she heard a church building had been flattened. I looked online to see what I could find about that. There is a huge church with a very nice, seemingly sturdy brick building right down the road, but I thought surely it couldn't be that one. I found an article from the Clarion Ledger said the tornado touched down at the intersection of Riley Road and Highway 28--one half mile from my parents house—another half-mile from that church. I didn't want to believe it, but knew it was probably true. It was just so scary to think such severe damage was done a mile from their home.

Knowing it was a bad situation, I tried calling them several times. I could never get anyone. That is one of the scariest feelings ever experienced. Helplessness. Uncertainty. Fear. I knew I would be good for nothing at work until I knew everyone was ok back home. So I decided to Magee. In my head, I thought things were probably ok since I had talked to them after the tornado had passed, but that was no relief to my heart. I wanted to talk to them and hear it again just to be certain. I threw on some clothes, ran by the school to get some stuff ready for my kids and tell my principal, and I was on my way. While I was driving my mom did call and that was such a relief. I just kept going though since I was already on my way. I wanted to see my daddy.

No one can ever be the least bit prepared to see such damage. The church was flattened. Roofs were ripped off houses. Garages were ripped off houses. Walls were ripped off houses. Houses were ripped from the foundations. Cars were upside down. Cars were gone completely. Mobile homes were unidentifiable. It was worse than I could have ever imagined.

The crazy thing about this tornado was how long it did damage. I've been around for several tornados in my lifetime, but nothing of this magnitude. Usually they hit an isolated area and dissipate. This one stormed from one side of Magee to the other. And Magee isn't a huge town, but I think the news said the path of destruction was around 17 miles. And every mile of that was catastrophic.

The amazing thing about this situation is that there have been no fatalities. Thirty six homes were completely destroyed. Twenty nine homes had severe damage. Around forty had moderate damage. Yet no one was killed or even had critical injuries.

The outpouring of support and concern is amazing. I talked to friends and family all day long--some of whom I hadn't spoken with in months. You never realize how comforting something as simple as hearing an old friend's voice or getting texts that say "thinking of and praying for you" can be. Support from inside the community is awesome. Volunteers already had a shelter open for victims. Crews were already working to get tarps on homes. The phone lines were overloaded with concerned friends and family. These people are doing what they can to help one another out of the kindness and goodness of their hearts. Support from surrounding communities is also arriving. Seeing all the volunteers is inspiring. In a world so focused on negative things--the war, the economy, crime and violence--we are so blessed to be able to see the positive things and good people. I'm thankful for that.

I hate that anyone of these families have experienced such tragedy and I would never wish it upon anyone, but everyone learns from these experiences. We learn never to take anything for granted--you never know when it might be taken from you. We learn to help others, not to get recognition, but because it’s the right thing to do. We learn that a church is not the building, it's the people that fill that building. We learn that God has infinite power and wisdom that completely supersedes our understanding. The hands that made a storm so strong and powerful to rip a home from its foundation, were the same hands that covered and protected those families inside. I can't say that I know why God chose such destruction, but I trust He has a plan far beyond my comprehension. Maybe some soul will come to Him as a result of this. Maybe He wanted to remind people to reach out and not take things for granted. Heck, maybe He saw that the construction business was in a slump in Magee and this was His stimulus plan. My point is, I don't know, and I never will, but I will trust Him and continue to praise him for this day and all the other blessings he has so generously given me.

Thanks to all of you who called, texted, emailed, and prayed. It made the process so much more bearable. Please continue to pray for the people of Magee. They have a long road to recovery.

=P

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. -- Psalm 118:24

tales of a road trip...

There is nothing greater than leaving all cares and worries behind to go on a road trip. For the last half of my spring break I went to Nashville to visit Vallery. Thursday morning I left Magee and began my trek. Fortunately the weather was great both days I was driving. I left Magee Thursday morning and tried to get to Nashville as quick as I could since Vallery had arranged to get off work early that day. As fate would have it, I didn't get there quickly and she didn't get off work early. I had several stops and detours that deterred my arrival. At one point I got so sleepy I had to pull over and take a power nap. That was the last stop thankfully. I made my way on into Franklin and finally Vallery was able to leave work long enough to get sushi with me. Can I just tell you that place had the best Philadelphia Roll I have ever put in my mouth. Anyway... Vallery had to go back to work so I went and crashed at her apartment.

The next day we had a late start after sleeping in... We ventured to downtown and went to the Frist Art Museum. It was our bit of culture for the day. Boring for the most part, but they had a few pieces that were very cool and made it worthwhile. That night we went to see Jersey Boys--the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. I have to admit before then I had heard of Frankie Valli, but couldn't tell you any of his songs and nothing about him personally. I was skeptical, but it turned out to be so great. I would highly recommend it to anyone.

Saturday was such a nice day. We rode to downtown Franklin and other places around Nashville. That night we went to the Grand Ole Opry. Kellie Pickler, Dierks Bentley, Marty Stuart, Vince Gill were there. It was great and oh so entertaining. As I was leaving I heard someone call my name and I was totally surprised to see Mrs. Angela, the secretary from Northeast Jones there. It turns out that the show choir was on a trip up there and had performed during spring break! It doesn't matter where I go, it seems I always run into someone I know! It's so great to see old friends though!

And then Sunday I got up and began my journey back into the real world. The drive was peaceful and beautiful. The flowers are beginning to bloom and the greens are getting brighter. Even so, I must admit, the thought of going back to work after a week off was a little bit depressing. But, even though it's not as desirable as the life of leisure, I am grateful I can work. And that I have a job. I know there are many who are out of work or physically unable to work. God has blessed me and I won't take that for granted!

"All I have seen teaches me to trust the Creator for all I have not seen." Ralph Waldo Emerson

tales of babies and great friends...

I am so thankful for the beautiful days we have had during this week off! The rain was nice and needed, but I'm glad it's gone for now. I hope the remainder of spring break is just as pleasant. It has been a great week--relaxing and full of blessings. As many of you know, many of my friends had babies recently (Tasha, Jennifer, Michelle, Ginger) or are currently pregnant (Amy, Deb, Audrey). This week I found out two more of my friends are expecting this year--Congrats Nicole and Christi! I am so happy for them. They are already great parents and I know they'll be equally as great with the next kiddo!

I also got to catch up with some old friends this weekend. Saturday I spent the evening and night with Keith and Dana. It's always fun visiting Laurel. I am so thankful that not only do I always have a place to stay at their home, I HAVE MY OWN ROOM! I have such great friends! I swore to myself after the summer of six weddings that I would never become friends with another single person. I broke that vow by befriending Dana. While I was super excited for her when she got married, I wasn't extrememly happy about being a bridesmaid for the 87th time. That move has however proven to be very beneficial and worthwhile in the long run! LOL! I do really love them and thier hospitality! They're like a brother and sister to me now! I went to my old church Sunday morning and got to see Michelle and Taylor--he's getting so big. I can hardly believe it. It seems like just yesterday I was mad at her because she waited for 13 weeks to tell me she was prego! It's crazy how time flies these days! Then, we saw Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Coat presented by Laurel Little Theater, starring my boos Lacy and Shane. That was amazing. LLT always does such a great job with their productions... And the talent, especially for such a small area, is phenomenal.

The weekdays have been pretty calm and uneventful... Bo "made" (by made I mean took out of the box and put in the oven) lasagna one night and we hung out and got all caught up on tv shows since I am quite possibly the only one in the modernized world without DVR. Tuesday night Mom, Madelyn, and I went to a MSU/USM baseball game at Trustmark Park in Jackson. We didn't bother with purchasing tickets in advance because we didn't really think it would be too crowded... Wrong. All the seats were sold out so we reluctantly paid our five dollars for the cheap seats--above the outfield... just under the scoreboard... in the grass... Thank goodness we don't have allegies. It actually turned out to be a nice night though. The dawgs unfortunately just couldn't get it going. We left in the sixth and they were down 10-1... Madelyn of course was more than happy to rub it in since she now considers herself an eagle. She won't admit it but she's still a bulldog at heart. I even caught her singing "Go State... Go State" a couple times.

And now I'm packing for my trip to Nashville to visit Vallery. I can't believe the week is half over, but I'm so looking forward to the trip. Friday we are going to the Frist Art Museum and Saturday to the Opry to see Kellie Pickler and the Charlie Daniels Band! And most importantly, Vallery likes sushi and I am SO deprived of that in southwest Mississippi! So sushi is a MUST for this trip.

I hope and pray that everyone is having a safe and happy spring break.


"Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun." Psalm 37:5-6

tales of college...

SPRING BREAK! In college it was all about the wildest vacation spot with parties going on from dusk 'til dawn, hanging out with friends, napping at the beach by day and staying out all night. Now, only five years later, the differences are astonishing. It's about a week to relax, stay in my pj's all day if I want, trips to the spa, taking relaxing walks, and reading a good book--something I would have never, ever done in college. Boy, how a few years can change things. Every now and then I think I can do all I did in college, and sometimes I try, yet the next day I'm quickly reminded what a bad idea that was. Then... I must reminisce about the good ole days.

In college I didn't party as much as some, but I had my taste of it. I miss a lot of things about the college life, but honestly, partying isn't one of them. I miss hanging out with my friends until 2 am, sitting around, talking about nothing and watching the same movies over and over. I miss mom and dad paying my bills. I miss going to the Sanderson Center to work out in between classes. I miss the atosphere of Starkvegas and the memories made there. I even occasionally miss that nasty trailor park where I lived. Don't get me wrong, I never want to go there again. I never want to live next to a prostitute or across from a man who drinks so much he passes out in the driveway at 11am, but that place had character! LOL! I miss going to football games at Davis-Wade Stadium, and basketball at the Hump. I miss meeting people my age. I miss being carefree.

Though it seems like college was the best time in my life, since then I have experienced great things and know even better things await me. Things are pretty good now. I like having a job and making money. Mom and dad don't send it anymore(that's a bit of a bummer), but my budget isn't quite as tight as it was back then. I can afford to do the things I want to do. I like not living in a trailor park. I like having a decent car. I actually like having to run outside because I don't have a state of the art gym at my fingertips. I like making new friends of all ages and seeing and accepting new perspectives... I like being challenged now in ways that college just couldn't offer. Finding jobs, making lifelong friends, working hard just because I should, studying things to better myself rather than studying to get a grade. I didn't always have time for all of those things in college. I know that even better things are to come, God willing... My wedding day, the birth of my first child, and my second, and maybe more... his/her first day of school... and graduation... Retirement! LOL!... The list of amazing things can go on and on. While these times are much more challenging than college, the reward has to be multitudes more!

So, college was great, and I do miss it. I worked hard in my classes and the reward was good grades. It was huge at the time, but who remembers what my GPA was now? Being young and carefree was fun, but it wasn't so rewarding. And in the end, isn't that what we long for? With that being said, I know I must wait patiently and work diligently, looking ahead, not behind, for what's in store. The most fun time of my life might be over, but the most rewarding is yet to come. And no matter what, I know it's gonna be great in the end!

"...Forgetting the things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Jesus Christ." Philippians 3:13-14

=P

tales of civic duties and exercise...

I am really LOVING having more daylight in the evening time. Yesterday I was actually able to go home, rest a few minutes, and then get in my walk/run. I'm convinced God inspired man to create daylight savings time for people like me who make excuses for not going out too much in the winter time. I love it! I'm so excited because I'm really hoping to get back into my running (jogging really, but running to me!) routine. I hope that I can run a 5k in May. And, I'm hoping to recruit some people to do it with me since my only friend that ever showed serious interest is now prego! For completely selfish reasons, I wish she could still run with me, but I couldn't think of a better excuse for her not to do so.

On a completely different note, I had to report to my very first jury duty this week. I went to my parents' house Friday night for a weekend visit and had a stack of mail. Imagine my suprise when I found a letter from the Simpson County Courthouse. In the few seconds it took me to open the envelope I racked my brain trying to remember if I had any unpaid taxes or tickets. Since I knew I hadn't gotten a ticket lately and had just purchased my tag in December, I'm not sure why those were the first thoughts. I finally got to the letter and saw that it was a jury summons... FOR MONDAY, MARCH 9! I had no sub plans at work and didn't bring any of that home with me. And, this week is nine weeks exams! After a few minutes of panic, I knew there was nothing I could do and I had to pull it together the best I could. I got some stuff together and reported to the courthouse at 8:45 (secretly happy that I got to sleep a little later). It was quite interesting... They did the roll call and seated us randomly. They called out a series of questions that would excuse us if anyone answered no... Can you read and write... Are you a resident of this county... Are you registered to vote in this county... There were several more. They then called row by row for the candidates to talk to the judge if there was a plausible reason they couldn't serve. Authority figures always make me so nervous, so I know I sounded like an idiot when I tried to plead my case. He either felt bad for me or thought I was sincere though, because after telling him that I was a teacher, scheduled to give exams this week in a district so hurt by budget cuts that it doesn't hire subs, he excused me. And I was out. I'll admit, I'm intrigued by court cases, and was a little disappointed that my first jury experience was so short. But, I know I did the right thing. There's no where I'd rather be than right here with my babies while they take their nine weeks test... Or maybe thats a stretch... There's no where I need to be more than here... And I don't mind.

=P

Final selections...

These were the faves...




=P

Birth Announcements...

I'm in the process of designing birth announcements for Ginger... Here's what I've come up with so far. What do you think?









The quality of the first one isn't as good as I was using a different program. I have got to work on it a bit.

=P