The End Of An Era Came Today

My home away from home is moving locations. Today was the last day for my local library to be open. Have I told you how much I love this place?

I love this building because before it was the local library it was my church home. I learned to walk in these halls. I went to pre-school here where I met some sweet friends, some I still am in close contact. I wrote my senior thesis paper at one of the tables in the middle. Every other week, I visit my local library to get more books to read.

I love to read.

I love the library.

I know I am going to love the new library but the new location is not less than a mile away. The new location doesn't have the history and the new location isn't my home away from home. Yet...

My friendly librarian encouraged me last week to check out as many books as I wanted. She said they weren't due back until the new library was open...6 weeks from now. You would have thought I won the local lottery. "Are you serious?" She was... she is a librarian after all.

When I walked in the door with all my books, Jeff thought I had lost my mind.

You going to read all those books in two weeks?

No sweets, I am going to read them in 6 weeks. It is my gift from one book lover to another.

And then I explained that they were closing down and moving to the new place. Do you know what he said, "Don't loose it, we don't want to have a fine."

Oh ye of little faith! I usually have to track down his books not mine. And he only does one at a time, not two.

For those of you curious to see what I will be reading, here is my list of books to read.

Happy #6 Katy Bug!

Isn't she sweet!


My sweet niece Katelyn turns 6 today.




She and her family are enjoying a family vacation this week so I went over early to get a few pictures of my favorite SIX YEAR OLD!



Katy Bug, where has the time gone?


5 years ago at my wedding, you were almost a year old and you slept through the whole thing. On our honeymoon Jeff and I talked about how we couldn't believe you were turning one in a few days. The other night, 5 years later, we talked about how we couldn't believe that you were about to turn 6. We can't believe how fast you are growing.


This year we have loved watching you come out of your shell. Sometimes I wonder if your parents wish you were still in that shell! :)





We have loved seeing your personality come out in you. Your sense of humor has left us talking for days. You are one funny chick-a-dee!

We loved helping you learn to Rollerblade that night and teaching what it means to have confidence. You later proudly showed your parents how you could skate and you said, "It's because I have confidence!" Sweet Katelyn, confidence is a huge element to success so don't ever forget that with a bit of confidence you can try or do anything new.

Uncle Jeff and I pray often for each one of the nieces and nephew. And our prayer is always that you will grow up in wisdom and stature and follow God all the days of your life. We enjoy watching you learn new things at school. We enjoy hearing you tell us of the new friends you are making at school. God has great plans for you little Katy Bug. And for some reason I feel it necessary to remind you that it's cool to stay in school! :)



We love you sweet girl and can't wait to spend the day with you at IHOP and buying your birthday gift at the place of your choice.

have fun in Colorado, we will see you when you get back.

Love, Uncle Jeff and Aunt Sue Sue

God's Timing Is Perfect!

Yes, I have been more quiet than usual.

Here's why.

Imagine my disappointment when I came up not pregnant the night of our anniversary.

I hesitate to mention this because I don't want it to sound like once again I am complaining about not having a baby. I am in a good place and here is why.

I knew that if something didn't happen this month, I would go to the doctor.

I called in on Monday to get an appointment. Before I even dialed the phone, I prayed for God to show me if this was the direction that He wanted for us to go down. I waited while the nurse checked the calendar. She had something for Tuesday at 10:10 in the morning. Click here to read why 10:10 is a significant time for me.

So I head into the doctor on Tuesday. I was a little nervous and came very close to calling my mom to go to the doctor with me. But I figure since I am 30 I should act like an adult and go by myself. On the drive over, my all time favorite song, Walk By Faith by Jeremy Camp was playing on the radio. By the time I got to the doctor I was fully at peace.

The doctor did the usual stuff but the whole time she kept telling me, "The timing is perfect for you to come in today. It couldn't get more better than this." And I am thinking to myself, "Praise you Lord, Praise YOU!"

You see most of the tests that she has to run had to happen this week or I would have to wait another full month for the tests. That day, the day of the appointment was the last day I could do one of the tests. Praise God for His timing! I got it done and was able to schedule all the rest for the rest of the week.

Today I had another test to see if the inner workings were opened properly. I am happy to report that they are doing just fine.

Now my reasoning for sharing with you all is simple, I want to glorify God. Jeff and I are taking life one day at a time and are trying our best to enjoy the journey. I believe joy is a choice. I believe you can choose to be sad and bitter for what God is not doing or you can look at what He is doing and give Him a standing ovation. I believe that walking by faith also means that we have to die to our wills and trust God to work it all out for His glory.

I refuse to let Satan get the best of me. I refuse to bottle myself up and not tell people all that God is doing even when the big requests aren't happening. I believe that there is a reason for everything and God will use every facet of our lives to get our focus to Him.

For me this waiting period is proving to me, time and time again that I am not in control. I am using this time to draw near to God, to rest in His plan for my life. Even if His plan does not include children. I simply have to wait with total confidence that the Lord will answer all my requests in due time. And by golly, I am going to enjoy this journey. I will not hide out and be sad, mad or angry because it's not happening to me. I will rejoice with others and I will be happy, content, at peace and have full satisfaction with wherever God may lead us.

Friends, if you too are waiting-don't let Satan get the best of you!
Trust God to show you the way because His timing is perfect!!!

"He has made everything beautiful in It's time!"

Ecclesiastes 3:11

Positive Reinforcement from A Coffee Cup

There is nothing like a cup of coffee calling you a Bad A&& to kick start your day.

Or....

Driving by a deserted parking lot yesterday, I saw a lady in full Statue of Liberty attire walking in the parking lot. I wish I had my camera because she was decked out in Lady Liberty gear. I thought she may be one of those people businesses hire to stand out on the curb and wave you in but there were no businesses anywhere near where she was or where she was heading. Maybe she just couldn't find anything to wear. Or maybe she just felt like playing dress up and walking along a deserted parking lot. I give her props for being an individual.

Wedding Pictures

When Jeff and I got married we got a heck of a deal from a friend of ours to take our wedding pictures. Super sweet deal! But the catch was that she wanted to use our wedding pictures in her advertisments. We said, "Sure, why not!" I mean if you would have known the deal we got you would have jumped too. I found her website today to walk down memory lane, if you would like to look to, click here.

Oh and there is another bride in the mix who is from Puerto Rico she and I worked together back in the day. That girl was super full of life and taught me all I ever wanted to know about fashion and such. :) I was clueless before I met Sonya. She is the skinny one with her head thrown back laughing and has the rose petals thrown around her. Oh how I miss sweet Sonya!

Going Back to Where It All Started

Last night Jeff and I went out to dinner. I thought we were going to my favorite pizza joint but he had other plans.

When he turned in the wrong direction of the original location, I asked in a not so friendly tone, "Where are you going?" I don't know why I just don't go with it because 9 times out of 10 he is about to do something sweet.

Jeff says, "We are going back to the place it all started."

Knowing this route very well, after having worked there for 8 years, I smile and say, "You're sweet!" He smiled because he knew he was doing something good.

Friends, if you don't know already where it all started was at Chili's. I was waiting tables-he was a brother to one of my managers.

Sitting in that restaurant last night was very surreal for me. We were sitting at the same table (by accident of course) where I told my friend Scarecrow that I think I met the one. Since Scarecrow has known me since I was 8 years old and had heard those very same words many, many times from a few of the other boys I dated he probably wanted to laugh. But Scarecrow being the good friend that he has been to me for many years, started to quiz me about Jeff's character, job and his intentions. I told him about his character and his job but I didn't know what to say about Jeff's intentions. We were just having a good time getting to know each other. I am happy to report that I got the thumbs up from good ole Scarecrow. And I am happy to report that my conversation with him gave me the courage to talk to Jeff about where this relationship was heading.

I am sure you can guess the outcome of the story since we are celebrating 5 years of marriage today.

Last night was also a huge blessing for me to look back and see God was moving when I just knew that He had forgotten about me. I hated being home after being at college with all my friends. I was not happy with me and I was trying hard to get back on track with God. Time and time again, during those years post ACU, God brought just the right people at just the right time to help me on my journey. Meeting Jeff was a total fluke. Falling in love with Jeff was a total gift. And spending the past 7 years, 5 of those married, have been the best years of my life.

God blessed me at just the right time without me having to even look for it or manipulate the situation. Jeff fell into my lap like a gift from above. Our marriage, like all marriages has had it's ups and downs. In fact last night, we were fighting for the covers in the wee small hours of the morning and he said, "I don't know if we are going to make it to 5 years." To which I replied, "Yeah because I am going to knock you out before morning if you don't shut up!"
But I will take the good with the bad because both bring us closer to each other and God's will for our lives.

Life has been sweet with Jeff.

I am blessed.

God has blessed us.

Now I am off to scrub the joint while Jeff is off running errands.
I have learned over the past 5 years, his favorite thing of all time is to walk into a house that smells all clean and fresh. And what my baby wants, my baby gets.

I Have Good News With Great Joy!

My documents and pictures have been found.

They once were lost but now they are found, Amazing Grace all around

How you say?

Don't know

But I do know that my Father-In-Law is a GENIUS! He had a plan and his plan worked.

I think I will keep him.

I will also keep my husband who I have been married to for 5 years on Saturday.

I tell you this so when I am not around much in the next few days you can say, "Oh she is out with hubs."

He is off work this week and has declared it his week to cook. He is a great cook but he does not cook light food so I may gain a pound or two this week but that's okay. I am not having to cook so who am I to complain? Plus he makes the bed, did the grocery shopping, ran an errand for me for work, etc. etc. He is a huge help on his days off. Actually he is a huge help every day.

I would be stupid to get rid of him. :)

I see a bit of feet rubbing in my future for the sweet hubs.
I mean it is the least I can do, right?!?!

Have a great few days.

And...

Happy 5 years to Clay and Maurine who were married on the same day many years ago.

Time flies when you are having fun!

I Will Survive

The last few days have been a little hectic here.

My computer crashed. I lost everything. And I mean everything. All my daily devotionals from back in the day, all my pictures, all my spreadsheets for work and a bunch of other stuff that I am choosing to ignore at this point because I am sick of thinking about it all. Sick and tired of trying to remember it all.


So if you have not backed up your computer in awhile and not put your pictures on CD's than stop right there and get to work. From this point forward all pictures will automatically be downloaded to the computer then saved to a CD.

Oh well, you win some you lose some.

At least I have my health

ACU WHO-ACU YOU!

Anyone want to go back to college with me?

We got jipped!

A Must Listen To Series for Every Woman!

Ladies,

I have been convicted. It's not something I talk about here in blogland because I don't want to sound preachy but a radio series that every woman needs to listen to is playing here. if you are a woman, listen to this. There are about 5 different segements for you to listen to.

Trust me, every woman, single or married should listen to these.

And that is all I have for now.

I will be back later with birthday pictures.

Have a great Tuesday!

Susan

Happy Birthday To Me!

Can you believe that this is the face of a 30 year old?

Actually this was the face of a 29 year old.

Remember that night in January where I told you all that I was playing with my camera taking self portraits in the mirror...well here is what you didn't see.

I knew one day I would find a use for these silly things.

As I was driving home from 27 Dresses (must see movie, by the way) a song came on my CD player.

My Next 30 Years by Tim McGraw.

let's just say I took a moment to celebrate my age.

Rock on!

I'm Thirty, Flirty and Thriving!

(oh and rach, thanks for the card, I laughed out loud)

P.S. I manipulated the post date and time. Since my mom has a standing tradition of calling me at the time I was born I thought I would post on that time. But since I am going to be sitting with Tee-Nah at 10:10 tomorrow morning I figured what the heck, my blog, my birthday, my rules.

24 Hours Away

In less than 24 hours I will be 30 and I am super excited about it.

A new decade, a new era, a new beginning.

The twenties have been good to me. I met many wonderful people while at ACU, came home at the perfect time to meet and fall in love with Jeff, married the man of my dreams, let go of past hurts and dissappointments, met some wonderful people in my married life, kept in touch with most of my friends from childhood, started pursuing a few of my dreams and have learned the art of living in the moment.

Life is good.

Life should be celebrated.

I swear this is the last year that I will go all out on my birthday. Next year will just be cake and ice cream with my family and a night out with my sweetie. But this year...well I am moving into a new decade and so therefore I want to celebrate my journey.

Tonight sister friend and I are heading to the movies to see 27 dresses. (just a good excuse to go see a movie at night since I ususally only see matinees since it is so much cheaper)

Tomorrow, my birthday, I am getting up early to head to the local garden park for a few hours with my LORD, praising Him for all that He has done and all that He is going to do in my life. Then I will head over to see one of my favorite people named TEE-NAH (I am getting a mani/pedi) Later that evening I am dressing up and heading to the City Club for dinner with Sam and my mom (Jeff is working). And Sam swooped in to save the day since I was truly, truly bummed that Jeff wasn't able to get off work. Thank you Sam!

Friday night I am scrapbooking with a few of my favorite scrappy chicks at "The Pad". What's funny is I have a few friends coming who have known me since I was a teenager and a few friends I met in my twenties. It will be a sweet time together-celebrating friendships that span the years.

Saturday Jeff is taken me out on the town and taking me to pick out my birthday present. Let's just say I will be watching March Madness in style.

Sunday night we are having the traditional family dinner at Macaroni Grill.

And that, my friends is my birthday in a nutshell.

Yes it is over the top. And yes I am a bit embarrassed about all of it.

But next year, I am scaling it way, way down.

But one thing I truly believe in...everyone's birthday from young to old deserves to be celebrated. Because your life is special and deserves to be honored. And so that is why I choose to celebrate all my friends and family on their day. And choose to celebrate my day, my life, my journey in style.


Have a great few days, I am obviously going to lay low from blogland. But I promise a full wrap up when I return.

Reason 10,000,000 Why They Call Me Ding A Ling

I have been selling a few of my old scrapbook albums on EBAY.

I have a pair of stark white albums that Jeff once bought me at COSTCO in order to help me scrapbook on a budget. These albums never really found their way into my heart so out they went this week.

I was so excited when someone decided they wanted them.

The minute they paid the money I shipped these albums right on out of here.

I guess in my haste I forgot to check the albums before I shipped them off.

I don't even remember using them. But I guess I did because I got an email today from the buyer telling me that she had a few of my personal layouts and would like to send them back.

I am so embarassed by this because I have no clue what pages are in those albums.

No Clue.

I vaguely remember using the albums as a holding cell for a few layouts when I had no album but these two beasts to put them in.

I guess I will know by the end of this week because this sweet buyer already mailed them out to me.

Note to self: Check the merchandise you sell before you ship it out.

4 Days and Counting

The birthday celebrating has begun. The other night I was organizing some old memorabila from high school to start a scrapbook of my life story. I thought this would be a fun week to look through this stuff and get it ready to one day assemble it into an album. While I was looking through this box I came across this banner picture above. If you look close, you will notice it is a Strawberry Shortcake banner.

On each of my birthdays growing up my mom would hang it over our fireplace. This poor thing hasn't been hung since my eighteenth birthday. I figure 30 is a good year for it to make a reunion in our house.

While sorting out the past (i.e letters, pictures, old birthday cards) Bravo was playing Grease 2. If you know me at all, then you know that this was my and still is one of my all time favorite movies. I watched it over and over again when I was a small girl. What I thought was funny is that Bravo played it two times in a row. It was like they knew I me or something. I had a blast!

Saturday afternoon we celebrated my cousin Lauren's new baby on the way.

I am posting a few pictures for the cousins who couldn't make it.

The Hostesses with Lauren. Doesn't Lauren look cute?

The Sisters, both pregnant with little boys...

A current picture of Cousin Paige and Me...my mom did very good. I am proud of you mom for taking this picture!!!


Sweet baby lovin'...



This morning Jeff and I planned to go to RHCC to hear Cousin Andrew's group sing. Usually I never have to set the alarm because I wake up at 7 a.m with or without the alarm. When I woke up at 7 today I was going to shut my eyes for a few more minutes and sleep for a bit. I didn't wake up until 11:30! Yeah that's right, I slept way too late. Sorry Andrew, we really were going to come and see you.



Jeff and I had a wonderful day though doing nothing but hanging around the house. I don't remember the last time we just took time out for us. Hubby even made pancakes.



See...


And right now we are watching The Brave One. I am a little scared so I am blogging to keep me distracted from the scary plot line. This is why I lean towards TCM, those movies are not that scary.

(spell check where are yoU!? help a lazy writer and bad speller out will you?!?!)

A Romantic Dinner @ Home

Valentine's Day is a sweet day. It is one that I have enjoyed since I was old enough to realize that my birthday was coming a week later. I have always viewed Valentine's Day as the kick off to my birthday week. And if you have been reading since last year than you are aware that in our house you are allowed to celebrate your birthday for a full week if you choose.



We aren't big on going all out on Valentine's Day. Call me crazy, but if we are going to do anything romantic I would prefer it be on my birthday not a hallmark holiday as Jeff describes it. And you see one birthday not too long ago, Jeff proposed to me. Obviously now we have a special place in our hearts for my birthday rather than Valentine's.



But...



Jeff's work schedule changed for this week. He is home at night with me for the next 5 days. He asked me a few days ago if I would like to go out to eat. I said, "Nah! Let's stay home." (Having worked in the resturant industry for many years, eating out is the last thing I want to do on this day) So he said, "Are you going to cook then?" I said, "Nope not cooking but I will think of something."



Before Jeff came home yesterday, I went to Wal-Mart to enjoy watching the hussle and bustle of men buying junk for their sweeties. Make sure you mark that on your to-do list for next year, it was so much fun watching men trying to figure out if they should get a teddy bear, balloon or flowers? Some looked very nervous, some looked mad that they had to buy it and some had the sweetest look on thier face which made me want to follow them home to see what was up thier sleeve for sweetie. I spent a few minutes standing off to the side watching this and it was the best free entertainment of the year.



Then I hurried home to close down the office before Jeff came home. Office=living room. I cleaned the house, finished and hung a few loads of laundry and pulled out a few candleabra's that have never been used since we were first married...5 years ago.



Jeff called on his way home from work so I called in our dinner.



When Jeff came home, this is what he came home to



And later we watched "The Good Year" that we got in the mail from Netflix. Although we didn't finish is because the disc was too scratched up at the end. So we ended the evening watching Ace of Cakes, my all time favorite cooking show.

It was a sweet night without flowers, a 5 star dinner and dressy clothes. Who says you need all that junk to say Happy Valentine's Day to the one you love?

I Love This Man!

I love that he knows just what to say to get me rolling. My side hurts most days from laughing at something he said or did.

I love the fact that Elijiah started to cry this day when we told him Uncle Jeff had to leave for work. I love the fact that Jeff ran late to work that night to throw little man in the air a few more times.



I love the fact that he will play girly games with the chicks. He let them paint his nails and put make up on him this day. They love dressing up Uncle Jeff.



I love the fact that Hayley is so much like her Uncle Jeff. We call them two peas in a pod. They have the same way of methodically thinking through things. Be it the food they order at dinner, the latest gadget to buy or what to say in converstation- neither one will do anything without thinking it through. And they are buds, sweet friends these two are.

I thank God for bringing you into my world Jeff. Thank you for making me laugh. Thank you for making coffee for us on Sunday mornings and pancakes on Saturdays. Thank you for discussing the Bible with me. Thank you for giving me advice on how to deal with different situations. Thank you for getting up early every Sunday morning for praise team practice when you could sleep in so that we can ride together to church. Thank you for comforting me when life doesn't go the way we had planned. Thank you for encouraging me to keep my chin up and to wait on the Lord's timing. Thank you for making dinner last night. Thank you for calling to say hello this morning. Thank you for being my best friend, my soul mate. And most of all, thank you for leading our family. God has blessed us and I could not imagine life without you.

I love you!
S

Letting Go

I didn't know when I started this journal that God would use this time to change many of my stubborn ways. I didn't know starting into this time that He was going to show me that I am sooo not in control of my little world as I had hoped.

Please forgive me if my absence is noticed the next few days. I just need to take time out this week to get some clarity on a few things.

I do have a praise though that I think is worth dancing a jig. My father in law has his 3rd interview today at 2 with a wonderful company. To God be the glory with wherever He leads him.

Enjoy the next few days

Susan

It's A Simple Thing That Make Me Happy

My goal for today was quite simple.

Laundry and rest.

I finally shooed Jeff out the door so I could enjoy the solitude of cleaning my house without interupption. Don't get me wrong, I love Jeff but he likes to get in the way more than help. And the confindes of our little one bedroom apartment can become a bit unnerving at times.

Today I have done more than laundry and rest.

I have chatted with family members, dusted, vaccumed, cleaned out my closet, did our lesson for small group tomorrow and have relished every minute of my time to myself.

My closet brought me a wonderful surprise today too.

I have a shirt that I bought online from Harold's awhile back. When it arrived in the mail I couldn't zip it up on the side. I was so dissappointed and chastized myself for trying to buy clothes without trying it on. For the last few months, every once in a while I will see that darling little shirt hanging in my closet and just have to try it to see if it fits. Every time, I get closer and closer to closing up the trap so to speak. Today I decided I would try it on once again to see if I could get it to fit. Imagine my delight when I not only was able to zip it up but was able to breathe, move around and raise my arms without it being too tight on my arms. Jub-i-lation!

Couldn't life get more better than that for a woman? Not sure. Because today I am so happy I just my burst my shirt that I have spent many, many months trying to fit into.

When Jeff saw me wearing the shirt he asked me when I planned on wearing it? I said, I would wear it when he threw me the birthday party of the year to which he just shook his head and walked away muttering something along the lines of "Lord help me."

I tell you what loosing 30 pounds has been the best birthday present for this soon to be 30 year old. I just can't wait to see what gift is coming next.

I am off to clean and watch the Absent Minded Professor.


(spell check is down, forgive the mistakes yet again!)

Real Life Happens

A few weeks ago I spent the evening trying to capture real life moments of myself.

And with the help of the mirrors in the bedroom and my camera, I was able to capture what I look like while I am having quiet time.

During that week the Chronological Bible took us through the book of Job. I have never really grasped the meaning of Job so I spent lots of time reading my Bible commentaries. Never underestimate the significance of diving deeper to understand a book of the Bible. God will use that time to either touch your life or pass it on to someone else in thier time of need.



Over the last two weeks I have found myself sharing what I have learned with others.

Real Life Happens. And sometimes we don't understand why this or that is taking place but I believe all God desires of us is draw near to God and He will draw near to us. (James 4:8) And I have never been more encouraged than when God will use my time in the Word with Him in conversations with people in my daily life.

I pray that this post will encourage you to dive a little deeper this weekend into the Word. I am going to spend this weekend doing nothing and loving every minute of it.

This chick has hit her wall after going non-stop for many, many weeks. I am going to love every minute.

Have a great weekend!

(Spell check is down and I am too lazy to edit on my own, please forgive)

Do Not Disturb Granny!

My sweet Granny is a HUGE fan of Jeopardy.

I just called her to say hello and while the phone was ringing I saw the time.

11:00 A.M a.k.a Jeopardy Time!

When she said hello, I asked her if she wanted me to call her back in 30 minutes.

She said, "Of course I do!" And hung up.

Well...

The moral of the story: Do NOT Disturbe Granny during Jeopardy!

Good-Bye To You!

Good-bye 30 pounds.

So long farewell.

Thank you for finally realizing that you have overstayed your welcome.

What a surprise it was for me today when I realized that you are no longer a part of my life.

I appreciate the fact that after all this hard work of trying to get you out of here, you finally decided to fall right on out of here.

I didn't realize I had lost you because I haven't checked in with the scale in over two months.

But low and behold, you are gone.

And man, was I am happy to see you were gone! Gone! Gone! Gone!

I thought I was going to have to push real hard this last few days before I turned 30, to reach my goal, but you have already done all the work for me.

You left.

You're gone.

In fact you exceeded my expectations and took a few friends along. I never thought I would be only 5 pounds from what I was the year Jeff and I got married. Never in my wildest dreams.

So no more talk about weight, I will continue to eat right and enjoy the new slimmer me.

Happy 30th birthday to me (20 days early)

Now I am off to tone up my body!

Happy Birthday Paige

happy birthday to you couz, happy birthday to you! happy birthday to YOU! happy birthday to you.

I hope you have a day full of blessings and laughter.

What a blessing you have been in my life.

Especially college years and beyond.

Thank you for being my ACU sister and keeping an eye on me my freshman year.

I always loved to come back to my room after a long day of classes and see a note from you on my door. Or running into you in the student center before chapel and you checking in with your younger cousins like you were the Mother Hen for us. You were sweet and a huge blessing!

I loved spending that summer at Camp Deer Run with you and still could get you for not coming as a camper with all of us.

I love watching you scrapbook rapid fire style. I mean you put a whole new spin on slapping a picture on a page in style.

I love hearing your stories in blogland of the little cousins. They couldn't be more cute and full of character.

I love seeing how God is growing you and enriching your life daily.

May this year be full of many blessings for you as you continue to take life one day at a time.

Enjoy your journey couz!

I love you
Susan

So Much To Say But Not Enough Time

Lots has happened this week. Many ups & downs. Blessings and praises. Real Life happenings.

• FIL had 2 job interviews with a company this week. He is now waiting this week for a callback for a in person interview. I pray that the Lord provides. He has been without a job for over 365 days.


• My morning quiet times have been extra special this week. God has brought many verses that have literally jumped off the page for me. Some I have shared with other people, some I have journaled to show how God has been speaking to me the last few days. My favorite verse is Psalms 68:19. "Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burden, The God who is our salvation."


• My sister-in-law lost her baby this week. This has hit me very hard. As sad as I was that my time had not yet come I would never wish this on anyone. Never! I just pray that God continues to open doors for me to minister to her. We have cried many times this week together and I have spent many hours in prayer for her.


• Jeff and I praise God that we just finished reading the Book of Job. We realized two things while reading this, 1) God is soverign and He is fully in control 2) Sometimes the best thing we can do for those who are hurting is just walk alongside them with mouths closed and arms open.


• We had a wonderful women's retreat this weekend. God blessed us in so many ways and I am so thankful for the ladies who helped me get this thing together the last few months. Many read the blog so let me just take a moment to tell you ladies THANK YOU! You rock!


• And one last note, Jeff told me the other day that his first priority in the next few months is buying us a house. I have kept quiet and told him that I fully trust his wisdom. I was encouraged the other day when Pastor passed on a house flyer for me to give to Jeff when I was over hanging with Pastor's wife getting ready for the retreat. He said, "Jeff and I have been talking about this house." I said thank you while trying not to get my hopes up too much...I love the house, love the neighborhood. But one thing I am excited about is that God has Jeff and I right where we need to be. I am content. I also trust God and my husband to lead us.

The IPOD Game

I saw this on Wade's Blog and thought I would do it since I have no time to write this week. Plus I laughed out loud on many of Wade's choices and then did the same with my own answers.

fyi: Amy (my SIL) birthday post to come tomorrow. Happy Birthday Sister!

The Rules
1. Put your music player on shuffle.
2. Press forward for each question.
3. Use the song title as the answer to the question.
4. NO CHEATING.

Q: What does next year have in store for you?
A: Somebody's Crying-Chris Issac

Q: What does your love life look like next year?
A: Amazing Love-Bebo Norman

Q: What do you say when life gets hard?
A: To Know You-Nicole Nordeman

(Truth is, I do sing this song when life gets hard, click on the title to read the lyrics! It is my theme song for this waiting period)

Q: Song that reminds you of good times?
A: In Your Presence-Jeremy Camp

Q: What do you think when you get up in the morning?
A: The Sun is Shining-Third Day (I didn't cheat...promise!)

Q: What song will you dance to at your wedding?
Open Skies-David Crowder Band

Q: Song that reminds you of your first kiss?
A: Better is One Day-Matt Redman (that dosen't fit!)

Q: Your favorite saying?
A: I Could Be the One-Staci Orrico

Q: Favorite place?
A: Daydream Believer-The Monkees (that's kind of funny)

Q: Most Missed Memory?
A: Diamonds and Pearls-The Pardons
(I bought this song for my in-laws 40th reuninon celebration)

Q: What song describes your best friend?
A: Happy Together-The Turtles
(I cheated here, the first song made us sound like we were lovers, so I hit the next button)

Q: What song describes your ex?
A: On the Road Again-Willie Nelson
(He hated Willie but I knew Jeff was the one because he LOVES Willie Nelson)

Q: Where would you go on a first date?
A: Boulevard of Broken Dreams-Green Day

Q: Drug of choice?
A: I Still Believe-Jeremy Camp (HA!)

Q: What song describes yourself?
A: Somewhere Out There-Linda Rondstadt (sadly, it fits)

Q: What is the thing you like doing most?
It Takes Two-Marvin Gaye & Kim West

Q: The song that best describes the president?
A: Seperate Ways (Worlds Apart) Journey

Q: Where will you be in 10 years?
A: Greatest American Hero Theme Song (Oh how I have loved this song for most of my life!)

Q: Your love life right now?
A: When the Lights Go Down-Faith Hill

Q: What is your state of mind like at the moment?
A: Champagne Supernova-Oasis (Susan it's only 10 in the morning!!)

Q: How will you die?
A: Learning to Fly-Tom Petty

Good Things

1)Last night I had to tell Jeff to stop talking, he was talking way too much.

When did the roles reverse?



2)Yesterday while singing Awesome God with the children's church the boys started a gun show when we sang "power and might". We have a big screen TV in the room and the boys were all looking in the screen at their muscles. One says, "I've been working out." (He's 6) Later he proceeds to tell me that his shirt is feeling a bit tight today around his arms and starts rubbing his biceps.

Oh brother they start early, don't they?

3)Last night Uncle Jeff was talking to niece Hayley. Usually they will talk for 15-20 minutes about this and that but not tonight. She told Uncle Jeff that she needed to let him go she didn't want to miss McKenizie's phone call. I think it hurt his feelings.

She is growing up so fast!


4)Niece Hayley is selling Girl Scout cookies. She has sold 525 boxes. Her goal is to sell 1000 boxes. Yes, that's right a 1000. If she does, she wins a trip to Galveston for a Girl Scout convention. I told her I would help her with the last 500. She said, "You're going to buy them ALL?" Uh, no I will help you sell them to other people. To which she replies, "Well if comes down to the wire will you buy the rest?" And I told her to go ask her Uncle on that one. His reply, "No. We know you can sell the rest. Aunt Susan will put on her old uniform for a good cause!"

Mom do you know where my sash is? And friends, do you want to buy some cookies?

Blessed

In May I was blessed to attend a taping of Beth Moore's series she does with Life Today. I not only was blessed by Beth but was blessed by the fellowship with 3 of my favorite ladies, my mom, Cousin Paige and sister Missy. The one session that really hit home with me was titled the "Power of Your Words."

Last night as Jeff was getting ready for work I was laying in our bedroom channel surfing. And guess what!?!? Beth Moore was on and they were showing the "Power of Your Words."

So again I was blessed by re listening to this message.

Click on these links to watch for yourself, session one, session two, session three

Oh and a quick note: to wrap up my last 30 days in my twenties, I have been spending a few nights writing in my journal praises from the last 30 years. I am choosing to use my daily prayer time these last few days in my twenties praising God for all that He has done and all that He is going to do. One day I will share with you but for now, I am going to relish this season of praise.

Enjoy the videos! You may see some familiar faces in the audience. I have seen the back of Couz's head a couple of times and the last session you see couz's face. Yoo-Hoo!

I Just Had to Write Another Post

My face was creeping me out every time I logged in so I had to send it packing.

Here we are the other night watching Charger football. Usually Meredith and I are sitting on the floor in front of the television talking about the contrast of the jersey colors with the other team. We also talk about how we would not wear spandex cargo pants ever-yet men love to wear them during the BIG GAME. And one last conversation we had this week went something like this, "The reason they are loosing is because they are cold and tired. Poor boys need a bit of coffee and to put on long sleeves. That should do the trick."


And sweet, quiet mother in law yelled "Move your A$$!" I have never laughed so hard in my whole life. I swear that is not normal language from her. She is going to get me the next time she reads this blog for even mentioning it to blog land.




I thought this picture was sweet, Hayley sitting next to Uncle Jeff watching the game. You know the game is up and down when Hayley will look up from her DS. After I took this picture her Uncle Jeff says, "Are we done with the camera yet?" So I put my camera away, like a good wife. Sigh...

Who are you routing for in the Super Bowl?

I was hoping Green Bay would go but that isn't happening so I guess I am going for Giants-there is no way I would go for the Patriots after how they treated my boys last week! And if you were a true friend to me you wouldn't either! HA!

Just kidding, go for who ever you want, just see if I invite you to my birthday party.

Which reminds me only 28 days until I turn 30! THIRTY! Yoo-HOO!!!!

Two Our Better Than One

Sweet Friends,

I prayed for you this weekend. And thanks to some creative genius on my part, was able to take a picture of myself actually praying for you guys. I'm sorry but I am very proud of this picture and also choosing to ignore the start of the Cagle double chin. Oh well, it comes at some point in all of our lives.

Moving on...

This past week has taught me that Christain community is a blessing. A real honest to goodness blessing. I am blessed by all your encouragement, phone calls, emails and by just being my friend.

My prayer for each of my friends (real and blogging) is that you would not be afraid to admit when you need a friend. There is nothing and I mean nothing wrong with saying "Help Me!"

I did that this week and God brought many of my friends to my aid; for this I am thankful.

But more than that, I have been real with God. I have woke up almost every morning the past few days asking the Lord to make Himself known to me in a powerful way this week. And He is faithful, so very faithful.

I have poured my deepest desires at the Lord's feet and I have been blessed.

This tape series has been a huge blessing. I pray you take the time to listen to the whole series. If you have an IPOD, you can download and listen in the car or while you are cleaning your house, or while you are working out. I enjoy listening to these often and will turn it on at any given moment.

I have also been blessed by reading my Bible daily. Jeff and I have started reading the One Year Chronological Bible and later discuss over dinner. Jeff and I don't normally have discussions like this, we usually are glued to Fox News during the dinner meal. But this new year we are changing all of that. We read separately and then discuss together during the meal and boy it has been a blessing.

I just wanted to say thanks for being you, for walking beside me and not against me, for loving me where I am at and encouraging me every step of the way.

So sweet friends, let me finish by saying this, be a blessing to those in your daily lives. Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need. And don't be afraid to pick up the phone to check in with the friends in your life especially if God is laying them on your heart. They made need your encouragement and they may just need you to listen. Nothing wrong with just sitting and listening, truly listening, to friends in their time of need. I wonder why we always feel like we have to have all the answers? Human nature I guess. That is one I pray about constantly. To listen more than I speak.

I challenge you to go out make it a great week being a blessing to those in your daily life!

Smile You're On Candid Camera!

Much To Do About Nothing

I know, I know I said I wouldn't be back until Monday but it is not even 11 pm and hubby is sound asleep and I am doing nothing but surf the web. That's what I get when hubby picks up an unexpected shift on a Saturday afternoon. He comes home and crashes earlier than normal.

So this post if for those who also find themselves surfing the web on this Saturday night because the house is a bit too quiet.

1) My friend Wade had the greatest story happen to him in a long time. Go here to read all about it. And Wade you are my hero and since I said that, will you email me that picture? My hairdresser said she would love to see it. Yes my hairdresser and she says you are her hero too.

2) Stupid Kitty Tricks here

3) And I have been warming up my dance skills for tomorrow's big game Chargers VS Patriots.
Oh I am so nervous about that game, I have read the story of David and Goliath over and over.

For the halftime entertainment, we will have this, then we will have this, and possibly this and for the grand finale, how about this?

Okay it's official, I have no life.

Happy Saturday night.

And if you were a doll and actually went to all of these links please leave a comment because I would love to congratulate you too on having no life this lone Saturday night.

Discovering Me

1. Vintage Apron, 2. soho red door, 3. joe's" house, 4. the office, 5. 20051124 - First Snow of the Year - 1, 6. buttons, 7. Cure, 8. Hide and seek, 9. we could be friends vintage pin back button set, 10. Suitcases, 11. Gingerbreads., 12. Christmas inspiration ...

I discovered this idea on Ali Edwards website. And the last few days have found that I like vintage items and I love the color red.

After I realized that I love the color red I made a list of everything red in my life for the past 30 years.

1. I had a red little red riding hood coat made by my grandmother.
2. My grandmother made Annie's dress when I was little and I wore it often.
3. My first pair of glasses were bright red rimmed glasses.
4. My lunch box in Kindergarten was a red Strawberry Shortcake.
5. My school's colors growing up were red and white.
6. Our school mascot were the Red Cardinals.
7. My first car was a red (more maroon) Ford Taurus.
8. My favorite robe I wear around the house is red.
9. I have a red pashmina that I love.
10. I am the proud owner of a red leather jacket.

Truth is, I didn't realize how much I love red until I took this journey of self discovery through the Flick files. Fascinating, really.

Oh and one more red thing you can add to the list.

Jeff promised me that when we have a house, we will have a red door either the front door (if it looks right) or somewhere in our house probably leading to my office/craft room. Because Jeff also promised me (even if we purchase one of those portable buildings and stick me out back) that I will have a craft room and an office separate from my living room. But for now I am just happy discovering that my true, authentic favorite color is red.

That's all for me this week.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Score!!!

Yesterday I was doing the weekly grocery run at my local Wally World when over the loud speakers I heard, "All Christmas Items Only 50 Cents per item!"

I thought to myself "All of it!"

And the voice over the speaker says, "That's right, all Christmas is 50 cents each located in the Lawn and Garden area. So thank you for shopping at your local Wal-Mart and go make it a great day!"

Well, you don't have to tell me twice.

A full grocery cart swing and I was on my way...after I apologized to the poor guy I almost plowed over on my hot pursuit, of course.


So I started looking through the crap stuff still waiting for a home and found these stockings. I thought it was Divine Intervention since my colors are gold and red. And since they were just 50 cents a piece I bought 4. Yes 4, why the heck not. I mean we do plan on having 2 kids so how's that for walking by faith?

After I add a little red something something they will be perfect and not look like they are heading out disco dancing.

I mean come on for 50 cents a piece I think I can do something with them. I am thinking of sewing a pretty red and gold tassel to them to cuff. What do you think?


I am open for some creative inspiration if you have any suggestions.

Happy Birthday Emaline!

Retail Therapy

I need to send out a hearty thank you to you all.

Since most of my readers are close friends and family I have received some of the sweetest phone calls, emails and comments in the last few days. You do not know how much these have lifted me up. (feel free to keep them coming they are a blessing!) Monday night after Jeff went to work I went to the local christian bookstore. My favorite spot in that store is the wall of scripture pictures. I walked around looking at each one and praying those over silently for Jeff and I. I know that may sound funny to you but there is something about seeing the scriptures hanging on the wall that brought me so much peace.

And so I bought one. This verse has been my verse all my life. It was the first verse that grabbed Jeff's heart. It has been the verse that we have relied on a daily during our waiting period. I put it in our bathroom at my sink. This way I can have a reminder every time I brush my teeth, comb my hair and put on make up that God has a plan for me. I believe that!


Another thing I did that I wasn't going to share with you but since I am being authentic this year, I will. I have thrown away all the ovulation testing supplies. This was hard but it was something that I felt the Lord telling me to do. If I am truly going to trust the Lord's timing for a baby I had to let it go. This is that one area that I have refused to let go. REFUSED. But already I have seen a wonderful change in my relationship with God. Partly because I am so scared of not being in control that I have had to pick up my Bible every minute and refer back to this passage in Hebrews 12:1-2

1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.


So with that, I am fixing my eyes on Jesus, resting in His promises for me, for Jeff and for our baby (that is waiting in Heaven to come down to me.) And running that race designed especially for us.

P.S. Julie, I loved your comment and mental picture you gave me. I think the same way so it was not trite. Love you friend.

Tis So Sweet to Trust In Jesus

This is what I saw this morning on my table when I came to get my morning Cup O' Joe.

The left over remnants of Jeff's quiet time this morning.

I share this for the wives out there who struggle with waiting for you husband to grow in the Lord.

And may I be frank to you wives?

For the love of all things good, shut your mouth!

You can't change Him but God can.

Instead of nagging your husband encourage him.

When you start to get frustrated with the waiting, shut your mouth and pray for your sweet man.

Don't you dare speak down to him or to your friends and family about him. That's not right.

Just pray for him and love him right where he is at.

You will be amazed how God will change you and change your husband when you let go and trust God.

Now go pray for your husband and love your husband for the love of all things good and holy.

Oh and sit down and wait until your husband takes the lead.

I guarantee you that you will be blessed if you just wait a bit.

It Couldn't Get More Authentic Than This

Jeff and I discussed our word of the year Saturday. We usually will pick a word that we believe will define the next 365 days. Last years word: contentment. Yes, contentment. And well, you have followed our journey long enough to know that if there was one lesson learned last year it was the art of being content.



This year's word: Authentic



Webster describes it as not false or imitation; true to one's own spirit or character.


We have found that we typically answer the question, "How are you doing?" with the old standard, "I'm fine." or "I'm good." When the truth is we may not be good or fine. Even when we are doing great we stick to the "I'm fine, How are you" reply.

Why is it that we aren't able to open up to our mates, friends, family and church community during the good days and the bad. Have we, as a society in general, become too prideful to admit that we could really use a friend, mentor or a simple hug. We tend to put walls up or paint a rosy picture of how we feel or how we want our world to look from the outside looking in.


It's something that Jeff and I are going to try to change this year. We are going to try to work on removing our walls and letting others in however raw, however blessed-we choose to be authentic to each others and those around us. You see we believe that true ministry comes when we allow ourselves to get real with God, each other and the people that surround us daily.

And well, the point is, it doesn't get more authentic than yesterday.

Yesterday I started my period. Not a welcome addition when you are trying to get pregnant.
As we were leaving for church, I was a wreck. On the way to church, the song "Everlasting God" by Lincoln Brewster came on. If you have heard this you know what a wonderful song it is. But when the little girl started quoting Isaiah 40: 28-31 at the end, I lost it. That is my verse, I sing a song called Teach me Lord to Wait often that goes with that verse. Yesterday in the car, I sang it to Jeff. After singing, Jeff had a tear running down his cheek. He says God is strengthening us. He is working in me and you, we need to trust. I cried even more. We sang Blessed Be Your Name at church yesterday, I knew it was coming since I was on the praise team. I told the team before hand that I was going to loose it based on what my brother and sister in law's friends have been dealing with this past week. A two year old is not supposed to be taken away. Plus I never can sing that song without crying. We, as a team prayed for all of us who have real life issues going on right now. So what happens while standing on stage during that song? I cried. Not sweet tears, heart retching tears. Boo-hoo could have been heard through the speakers. My sweet friend next to me reached out and held me while we sang. I had to go compose myself after singing, 3 friends came with me to support me (thank you friends) I cried more. Then Jeff and I get home from church and he tells me more news. M & M our pregnant after only 5 weeks of marriage. they got pregnant on the honeymoon. I cried. I was horrible for a few minutes and sweet Jeff just sat on the bed and let me pace back and forth saying "Why God? Why!?" And then we prayed for our baby. This friends is only the second time that together we have prayed. Saturday being the first. (I know, I know we are learning to be real with each other.) Jeff and I are trusting the Lord for our timing. It has only been 90 days since we have been trying together. And I know that it will happen. God makes ever thing beautiful in His time. So yesterday, we drive over early to spend time with MIL/FIL before the big announcement. I cried in front of them. MIL held me tight. She knows how I feel, she has been there too. I held my SIL real tight yesterday and thankfully was past the crying and even had my face done up nice. No trace of the tears. She said,"I'm sorry! My heart is broken for you" And I said, "Why? I am happy for you." and I meant every word. I truly am happy for them. sad for me but happy for them. Yesterday ended with Jeff and I praising God. We truly are praising. I am being real and true when I tell you this. We are praising God.

So the word of the year is authentic. I can't hide behind the mask, I can't tell you I am okay when I am sad. Because that would be a lie. But what is truth is I have a God who has great plans for me, plans to give me a hope and a future. He has promised Sarah babies and she waited forever. I have only waited a short time. I had to wait for Jeff to take the lead. He has and is and for that I am grateful. He is a wonderful husband. A wonderful, wonderful man. I am thankful for the waiting. Truly, truly thankful.

It couldn't get more authentic than this.

Prayer Warriors Unite!

You know how in the old cartoons, I think it was Super Friends, they would unite together to fight the evil one? And say something like "Super Friends Unite!!" Well that is what I thought of when I wrote that title. And that is so not the point of this post but sometimes my mind works in crazy, crazy ways.

Missy and Gunnar and a sweet, sweet family need our prayers. Friends from their church- their two year old daughter drowned this past week and the funeral is today.

Please drop by Missy's blog and leave her a comment. I know she would really appreciate the encouragement.

Please also pray for the family in the next coming days. And please pray for G & M who will be traveling next week and the kids will be with Lynnie. Please pray for a spirit of peace to pour over Missy, not one of fear and anxiety. Please give Gunnar the right words to say tonight at the funeral.

Sometimes we just don't know why these things have to happen and it is so hard not to shake our fist at the Almighty and say "Why did you do this?!?" So when times like this come, I always pray that no matter what God be glorified.

Speechless Moments

In recent weeks, my sweet hubby has left me absolutely speechless. This has been a wonderful thing and one that I fully give God the glory.

1. While sitting in Olive Garden he tells me that he is now mentoring so and so. What?!?! You have taken on a men tee? And his reply was yes, it's time to pour into others. Well, alrighty then, pour away.

2. The other night, I was exhausted. I knew that if I talked too much I would either pick a fight or cry until I feel asleep. Neither one seemed appealing to me so I told Jeff I am going to turn off now so I don't cause a scene. He wrapped his arms around me and said, "I am so proud of you, my excellent wife." Jeff is not usually a lovey type person, so this sweet show of affection came out of the blue and left me speechless.

3. Yesterday afternoon, we were having our household "State of the Union" address. This time has been a real blessing to us and something that Jeff started a few months ago. It's 15 minutes of structured time where he shows me the #'s and where we set goals for our self spiritually and physically. By doing this, I am able to truly enjoy the the journey and trust Jeff fully to provide for our needs. I am also loving watching Jeff guide our family in such a sweet, caring way.

But in the course of our conversation, I asked Jeff what the ETA for moving is. His answer, which I choose to keep between the two of us, is not too far off in the future. It's just not right now and well, I would love for it to be NOW.

Jeff looked me straight on and said, "What changes if we have a house?"

So I started to list off a few things mostly relating to hospitality and having people into our home on a regular basis. He gently grabbed my hand and said, "Well aren't you doing that now?"

"Well yeah but it would be more."

And here is the part that left me speechless, "Susan you have a ministry right? (Yes) You and I are happy right? (Yes, of course) Then maybe what we need to be more focused on how we can serve now, today-rather than how we are going to when this comes or that comes."

Jeff then quoted our theme verse, "Whoever is faithful in very little is faithful also in much." Luke 16:1-13

You see, friends in blog land, it's moments like this that leave me totally speechless yet forever grateful for God bringing this man into my world.

And for those of you who may be tiring of stories about how much I love Jeff, well two things I must say to you.

1) Get over it.
2) And if you could only see where we have come you too would be giving God 3 snaps in a circle!

Just A Little Behind

This little pile sits in front of my fireplace waiting for boxes that I have to go retrieve from the storage unit. I am ready for my living room/home office to get back on track.

But unfortunately, there has been no time to get this done.

especially when the piles on my desk keep growing and growing.



Jeff is off work this week, I am hoping that I can sweet talk him today into going and pulling these boxes for me so I can spend tonight getting everything put away.

He's sweet like that, he may just help me out.

But I can hear him saying now, "If you rub my feet..."

Which I hate, despise, can't pay me a million dollars to do this, I hate feet.

Not as much as Jodi, but close.

I will keep you posted.

May the force be with me!

:)

Can You Tell He Makes Me Laugh?

A Family That Rocks Together...

Stays together!

Hayley received the game ROCK BAND for Christmas. It is the same as GUITAR HERO but with vocals, drums and two guitars.

I loved the drums but I got booed off the stage so I had to switch to the guitar.

Later that night, Hayley and I were cuddling together and she said, "I think I get my singing ability from Uncle Jeff."

She actually did very well singing, Jeff did not. He just did it with style. Bad style. But Hayley thought he was very good.

I guess it's true what they say, "Fake it 'till you make it"

I told Hayley that she was much better than Jeff but I could see where she gets her stage presence from him. I hope it is many years until she realizes how bad her Uncle sings.

Need A Good Laugh?!?!?

Click here if you need a laugh today.

On a whole other note...

I must say a big YIPEE today because my contract was renewed for a whole other year today.

Our whole team has been sweating it the last few weeks.

I hadn't even told Jeff that there was a possibility of me loosing my job.

I just sat, prayed and trusted the Lord to provide.

Praise God 365 more days of working in my pajama's!

Isn't life sweet?!?

i've been inspired

Picture From Becky Higgins Blog

It's no secret that I love to scrapbook. It is a simple thing that brings me much joy.

I have been trying to get all my pictures that I have had printed for sometime in an album.

So with that thought in mind, I am taking full advantage of Recollections going out of business sale. I took my box of pictures with me to pick out matching paper. I have gone every day this week (except today) to spend the last hours getting paper and embellishments galore. And if you haven't been yet, it's great but a little sad. The staff is not their bubbly self and that makes me want to reach out and hug them or write a letter to the powers that be and say, "Your stupid."



I am taking the next couple of nights to get my layouts organized and ready for my next big crop. Whenever that will be. But I was a Girl Scout and their motto is "Be Prepared."



I even made a spreadsheet today to write out all the pages that needed to be done.



one of my new favorite people is Becky Higgins. I have always liked her work but now it has gone from total obsession. I think it was a post recently where she said if she is not in the mood to scrapbook she is either reading or organizing some area of her house. HELLO! That is so me! Becky is my BFF! (Although she has no clue who I am)



But my new BFF Becky inspired me.



She does her albums chronologically instead of by big huge events. And as I was looking through some of my old albums tonight, I asked myself, "Why I am not doing this?" It totally makes sense and it seems like it would be so much more fun to have an album for each year.



so tomorrow, I am going to take pictures of my old albums and post them on EBAY some are in very good condition but they are just so uninspiring.



So for you fellow scrapbookers out there go check out Becky's Blog today.

I promise you will be inspired too.

Oh and here is a picture of the album that I bought at Recollections for chronological stuff. It is the Kiwi Color. And do you know that this Kiwi color has always been a favorite of mine.

It was the color of my bridesmaid dresses.

The color of our wedding album.

And the color that will one day be in our kitchen, when we have a house.

So this new album will fit it rather nicely, don't you think.

Hayley Yelled "Happy New Year!" To You