ANGEL NOEL

Our newest arrival making me an aunt again. Sad thing is, the hospital staff thought I was grandma...that was so not funny! We welcomed Angel Noel on October 4th at 2:44pm. He weighed in at 8lbs and 4ozs and he was 21 inches long. He truly is a miracle! His mom was diagnosed with Leukemia about 2 weeks before she learned she was pregnant with him. I prayed over them everyday, and I can think of a more fitting name for him. Both mom and baby are doing well! Praise the Lord!

free free free

October is here and I am loving the fall weather! I am a feeling generous, so I have decided that anyone placing an order from my site scarlettscrapper.myctmh.com by 12:oo am Midnight on Oct. 3rd will be entered into a drawing for a free Lvl 2 paper pack of your choice. For every $25 you spend before tax and shipping, you will get one ticket in the drawing. There are some great discounted deals available online only. Take a minute or two and check them out. Once you've place the order, come back here and leave a comment with the paper pack of your choice.

REMINDER: CAMP'N CROP

Hi again ladies, it's me again, your friendly Close to my Heart Creative Advisor! I wanted to remind everyone about the upcoming Camp'n Crop on Oct. 16-17. Don't forget your registration is due on Oct. 1st. If you haven't gotten your payment to me yet, don't 'stew' on this to long....seats are disappearing quickly! Remember, I'm providing meals, snacks, and tea....and what camp out is complete without S'mores?...You'll have a chance to 'fish' for ideas and catch up with the latest buzz over the chirping cricut! We'll have give-aways that you're sure to love! There will be challenges and games to help you finish those pages....with no pesky mosquitos and no humidity to bother us....get busy packing your napsack and your tools...and don't forget to bring your pj's so you can settle in for an adventure filled cropping good time!

Close to my Heart

A group of us consultants got together today for a team meeting. We shared ideas and did a little creating. The top sellers were recognized. We welcomed new recruits and went over things we hope to accomplish soon. I am super excited that I am hosting my first home gathering next month....I feel like it's going to be the first of many to come! After the meeting today, the girls and I cropped for a few hours. They really enjoy creating pages...and I'm going to have to restock their inventory really soon. Next spring, I hope to plan a junior crop, but for now I am currently planning for the gathering, another technique class and the upcoming camp'n crop. The camp'n crop is going to be a mini-retreat of sorts. Games, prizes, decoration, ideas, and lots of fun, fun, fun...and energy too!

a Blazing Trail

With my recent promotion to Creative Advisor for Close to my Heart I became a supervisor as well. I signed a new recruit on Friday and I am so thrilled that she has already signed her first recruit. What this means for me is that I am going to be scrapbooking and cropping more often now. Not only do I teach others how to scrapbook and stamp, but I also sell the best scrapbooking and stamping products on the market. You'll have to see it to believe it, and when you're ready to check it out...drop me a line!

Altered Workshops

Yesterday was my first scrapbooking technique class. It was a big success. We have 6 ladies in

our group that have committed to learning a new technique every month. We learned how to heat emboss as well as how to use a baby wipe in our stamping. I wish I had thought to take pictures of some of their creations...maybe next time. After the class was finished, we hung out and cropped the day away. It was such a blast, but also very exhausting.

Next month, I am hosting a camping themed crop. We will enjoy 36 hours of creativity. Currently I am planning a clock making workshop and an acrylic frame workshop. Both of these items are great for gift giving. I'll post more information as soon as I get the date set. I will also try to post more pictures of the projects that I have planned.

Ph.D. Certified

I received my Ph.D. certificate and pin in the mail today. Now I have to paper to back me. I finished my Close to my Heart degree program a little over a month ago. I am now a certified Creative Advisor for Close to my Heart. The fleshly part of me says, " It's about time somebody recogonizes my abilities." Honestly, I am humbled. It's my creativity that I use most to work for the Lord. He blessed me with my talents and He can certainly take them away. I hope that I may always use my gifts to honor and glorify Him. Heavenly Father, thank you for the blessings you have bestowed upon me thru sharing my creativity.

My first technique class starts this Saturday. Words can hardly contain how excited I am to finally be fulfilling my passion of teaching others how to be creative. This group will meet monthly to learn new techniques to help enhance their scrapbooking. Contact me to learn how you can learn these techniques too!

Scrapbooking & Homecoming

Today I attended a crop. I met two new wonderful ladies and advised them creatively. Thanks to them both for allowing me to share my passion for scrapbooking with them. I hope that we will get together again soon to scrapbook. My technique class starts next weekend and I am very excited about that. Next month I'll be hosting the Camp'n Crop....we'll enjoy 36 hours of pure scrapping fun!!! Tomorrow is homecoming at church. I am looking forward to hearing our guest preacher and his family of singers. After service, we will celebrate in true Baptist form while we have dinner on the grounds. If you've never enjoyed a meal like that of a Baptist potluck, you're missing a real treat. I strongly suggest you may your way to one just as fast as humanly possible...it's almost like an all you can eat buffet on steroids...only better....there are enough desserts to feed an entire village in Africa.

Quilt of Holes

As I faced my Maker at the last judgment, I knelt before the Lord along with all the other souls... Before each of us laid our lives like the squares of a quilt in many piles; an angel sat before each of us sewing our quilt squares together into a tapestry that is our life... But as my angel took each piece of cloth off the pile, I noticed how ragged and empty each of my squares was. They were filled with giant holes. Each square was labeled with a part of my life that had been difficult, the challenges and temptations I was faced with in every day life. I saw hardships that I endured, which were the largest holes of all.

 

I glanced around me. Nobody else had such squares. Other than a tiny hole here and there, the other tapestries were filled with rich color and the bright hues of worldly fortune. I gazed upon my own life and was disheartened. My angel was sewing the ragged pieces of cloth together, threadbare and empty, like binding air.

Finally the time came when each life was to be displayed, held up to the light, the scrutiny of truth. The others rose, each in turn holding up their tapestries. So filled their lives had been. My angel looked upon me and nodded for me to rise.

 

My gaze dropped to the ground in shame... I hadn't had all the earthly fortunes. I had love in my life, and laughter. But there had also been trials of illness, and wealth, and false accusations that took from me my world, as I knew it. I had to start over many times. I often struggled with the temptation to quit, only to somehow mustering up the strength to pick up and begin again. I spent many nights on my knees in prayer, asking for help and guidance in my life. I had often been held up to ridicule, which I endured painfully, each time  offering it up to the Father in hopes that I would not melt within my skin beneath the judgmental gaze of those who unfairly judged me.  And now, I had to face the truth. My life was what it was, and I had to accept it for what it was.

 I rose and slowly lifted the combined squares of my life to the light.  An awe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around at the others who stared at me with wide eyes. Then, I looked upon the tapestry before me. Light flooded the many holes, creating an image, the face of Christ. Then our Lord stood before me, with warmth and love in His eyes. He said, 'Every time you gave over your life to Me, it became My life, My hardships, and My struggles. Each point of light in your life is when you stepped aside and let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you.'

 

May all our quilts be threadbare and worn, allowing Christ to shine through! God determines who walks into your life ...it's up to you to decide whom you let walk away, whom you let stay, and whom you refuse to let go.'

 

When there is nothing left but God; that is when you find out that God is all you need.

 

CTMH-versatility

Kelly Purkey from 2 peas in a bucket created this layout using our newly released card kit! What a awesome creation Kelly....thanks for sharing!

Lost Lagoon

We recently took a trip to SeaWorld just to play in the Lost Lagoon. If you've ever been there, you know why it was worthy of dedicating a whole day too and if you haven't been, well...get there as fast as you can! It's the only time you'll ever see me in a swimsuit....and that's only because I had too. I managed to dodge the camera most of the day, but I did end up with one picture of me....not terribly bad, but I certainly ain't ready to share it with the rest of cyber space (sorry folks...just not happening). Instead, I will share a photo of the kids as they came down of the sky tubin'. Gary and I went down first, ahead of them, so that we could watch them as they hit the bottom....I just love how excited they were.....it made the whole swimsuit issue worth it! I used an inexpensive disposable waterproof camera to take the pictures....it sure does make me appreciate the fact that I have a good camera that takes excellent quality photos.

Free stuff

Win a free cardmaking set....everything you need to complete 16 all occasion cards including a stamp set and 2 inks.....one new winner everyday in honor of national stamping month.....click here and enter to win today.....

a gift for you

In honor of the fact that my website is now operable, I am giving away a free gift to the first 10 people to place an order. I will either deliver in person or mail it to the address that you choose to ship to. The first person to place an order will get an extra something special from me just for being the first. On your mark....get set....ready......GO

spark some creativity

I am so thrilled to have my Close to my Heart website up and running again. I need to get busy posting some of my artwork. I just finished updating the calendar. Now you can view our new catalog and idea book online straight from my site. I've already placed an order and can hardly stand the wait for it to arrive. I promise, I'm not stalking the UPS lady anymore! Also, you can view some great creative webisodes on the CTMH TV....so instead of vegging out to the normal programs, switch it up a little and see if one of the Art & Soul episodes can't spark a little inspiration of creativity. Don't forget, you can shop online now too and get those hot new products into your creative hands easier than ever!

Over the past few days, I have been catching up with old classmates from high school on facebook! It's somewhat surprising how you can pick up with people like you've never been apart. After many years, you see how things change and how they never really change all at the same time. One of my newly found friends and I go back to grade school together. We met up at the end of last week and had a great time reminiscing old memories of each other and planning to make new ones. It all links back to scrapbooking. I have developed some of the best relationships with people because of scrapbooking and now I am finding and rekindling old friendships because of scrapbooking. Some people might say that I am obsessed with scrapbooking; that might actually be true, but it has only brought good things as a result.

Technique Class

I am preparing supplies for the technique class and I need to confirm those of you who are participating. If indeed you are, I need you to email or call me and let me know for sure. Remember it's a 6 month commitment to spend $25 (before tax/shipping) each month of the 6 months. In return, you will learn 1 or 2 techniques each month and you will receive $25 free product during 1 of those months. Our first Technique class is scheduled for 8am Sept. 19th at New Hope Church. If you are considering the class, but haven't signed up because you are unable to attend the technique class in person, I will make you a sample and get it to you with instructions.

The free monthly crop for Sept. will be held on the 19th beginning at 11am. Because this is a free crop, you will need to bring your own food and snacks. I will provide tea and water and we will have access to kitchen facilities. If you are planning on attending the crop I need for you to RSVP so I can insure that I have a table set up for you.

Paper cake template

I found this template on Big Foot and Pickle website. Scroll down for examples of the finished product. In order for all the pieces to fit together, you need to make sure that you stretch the pattern to a full 8.5x11 sheet of paper. You will need 12 pieces total. Good luck! Contact me when you've completed one and I will add it here for others to see!

More Paper Cake

After sharing the idea with others, this is the grand design of Diane Buzzell, a sister consultant with Close to my Heart. These are her words:

I used Colonial White cardstock and a couple stamp sets to stamp vines and flowers on it. I had some vellum confetti flowers I don't know where I got. They were in my stash and I used liguid glass to adhere them randomly. I used Just Blooms and White Daisy paper flowers for the centerpiece with some curling ribbon. And some white daisies with sparkles on the sides. My open house theme was the Idea Book "Unveiling" so I decided on a kind of a wedding theme. I was impressed that it didn't take too awfully long to make. Deciding on the stamps and the design took the most time.

Thank you Diane for letting us see your take on the awesome idea!

Sea World and Sunburn

Yesterday we went to Sea World and played in the Lost Lagoon! When we first arrived, I begrudgingly changed into my swimsuit. I was so self conscience about wearing it. Inside I was screaming, "I don't want to do this!" I prayed for the courage to let my fears go. I knew that in order to have a good time, I couldn't dwell on my insecurites. I made it my goal to enjoy the time I was spending with my family. I'm still not comfortable wearing a swimsuit, but I had the best time. We laughed and splashed all day! It wasn't until I woke up this morning that I realized just how much fun we'd had. My muscles are so sore and I literally am as red as a lobster! Yes, I put on the sunblock, but obviously, it didn't do the job. I shivered most of the night and I think that's part of the reason I am so sore. I wouldn't hesitate to do it all over again!

Homeshooling

Some days are better spent doing nothing, and that's exactly what I found myself doing today. It's my Friday at work, and I'm glad. The only thing I did accomplish was to add to the endless bank of creative ideas floating around in my head by visiting other CTMH blogs. It's amazing to see how many different ways that one product can be used. It's like homeschooling; no two families do it the same way, but somehow the end product is beautiful. That doesn't mean that sometimes the process doesn't get messy. I am excited about school starting back again. This will be the first time for the kids to start the school year at homeschool. I am wanting to continue with some of our traditions, like our back to school picture and such. We have decided that we will begin on Tuesday after Labor Day! That means we only have a few more days to go. I will be placing the order for the additional needed curriculum today. I can hear the $'s going cha-ching as I type. It's money well spent and an investment with far better returns than one will ever know! I have some really great ideas about ways to make the lessons more interactive. One example I have is to use a scrabble game for spelling time. Honestly, who likes to write their spelling words 3x each and in a sentence and alphabetize them every week, over and over. If they can have fun and learn them, then why not? Not everything can be fun, but things that can, should be!

Words of Wisdom

Life isn't about waiting for the storms to pass; it's about learning to dance in the rain!

Camp'n Crop

Have you ever wanted to attend a scrapbook retreat but didn't because of the cost. Well, worry no more. Now you can attend one without breaking the bank.

Join us as we share campfire stories over the sound of the chirping cricuts. We'll roast marshmallows (heat embossing + liquid applique) and count the stars (finished projects). We have the tent, lots of lanterns (good lighting) and plenty of vittles (food). Bring your creativity and your bed roll (sleeping bag or camp style bed...sorry, no beds available at the church). This will be the best camping (cropping) experience you'll ever have....no mosquitos to pester you!

If you are interested in attending you will need to RSVP with payment by October 1st Don't delay, hurry today, seats are limited and you won't want to miss this once in a lifetime experience. Please contact me to sign up at mrsfancyface@yahoo.com.

October 16-17, 2009
check-in 10am or later
check-out before 10pm Saturday

New Hope Baptist Church
3400 FM 2693 loop
New Waverly, TX 77358
936-767-4742 (church #)

5 meals include:
Fri.- lunch & dinner
Sat.- breakfast, lunch, & dinner
light snacks and milk/tea/water/juice provided
(refrigerator available if needed) - in case you want to bring your own sodas or snacks

Let me know if I can answer any questions for you and thanks again for allowing me the priviledge to be your Close To My Heart Creative Advisor.

Scrapbooking, What Else?

I hosted a scrapbooking crop last Friday evening and I was pleased with the results. My sister came and I taught her how to put together pages. I was able to visit with friends I haven't seen in a long time and others that I see often. My life is so blessed by scrapbooking. Being a Close to my Heart Creative Advisor has brought so many wonderful Christian women into my path. I find encouragement in the relationships I am building. I look forward to many more creative and crafting opportunities.

Paper Cake...

Now you can have your cake, and eat it too! My daughter attended her first piano lesson today. I don't know who was more excited, me or her. In order to keep the other kids busy while we waited for her, I decided to take a craft project that the kids could help me with. I sought after a kids pattern and quickly realized it wasn't as easy as I thought it would be (to find something). I stumbled across this website http://bigfootandpickleface.blogspot.com/2009/05/cake-slice-project.html The name alone tickled me...but here I found a pattern and a photo of the finsihed project. With my birthday right around the corner (I'll be 29 again for the 3rd time) I knew this was the perfect craft to keep our little eyes, hands, and minds occupied. I printed the pattern on the back side of 8 1/2 by 11 patterned paper and the kids cut it out while I stamped and glittered the flowers and circles. Time ran out on us, so I brought them all home and put them together. This is one cake that the kids helped make. It yielded minimal mess, and no injuries. I'll serve up the slices at the crop on Friday night.

God's Orchestra

When I was a young child, I played the clarinet. For the greatest portion of that time, I was first chair. But no matter how good I might have been, I could not have effectively played it if the instrument was not working properly. In psalms, we are told to make a joyful noise unto the Lord. Imagine you are an instrument...who's playing you? Is it God or someone else? How much sweeter a sound you would make if you are played by the master. Grow weary out of use. Don't waste away from apathy. Play in harmony. Are you in working order? Life has a way of bumping us around knock us out of tune, but that doesn't mean that we can never be in one accord. Sometimes we need an adjustment. We can be repaired through forgiveness. Are you producing a joyful noise unto the Lord or is God having to assign your task to someone else because you refuse to be an instrument for Him?

September Workshop on the Go

Close to my Heart has improved the Workshops on the Go program. These workshops not only have paper, but they now include a stamp set and a unique layout recipes and embellishments. For only a few dollars more you can get the 'best' deal upgrade that includes even more. These will be available September 1, 2009. Every month a new one will be featured! Make plans today to create these beautiful pages.

Learn New Technique -long distance

I am starting a long distance technique class. This is the perfect way to satisfy that dying curiosity and answer that burning question "How did you do that?" I need 6 ladies to commit to spending $25 each month for 6 months. The $25 (before tax and shipping) is for product of your choice. In return, you will learn 1 or 2 techniques each month and for 1 of the 6 months you will receive the $25 hostess rewards. If you are interested, please contact me.

Scrapbooking Technique Class

Many ladies I know have expressed an interest in establishing a scrapbooking group. Some of you were part of one in the past and are ready to get back up and running and I am here to help you do that. Before I set any dates, I would like to get a little feedback from you all. I would like to know if a Friday night from 6p-12a or if a Saturday 9a-? is better for you?

I would also like to know if you are interested in a technique class. Among many techniques, we will learn how to use a baby wipe to embellish a scrapbook layout or card. This class is the perfect opportunity to satisfy that curiosity about "How did they do that?" We will get together once a month (likely a weeknight) for 2-3 hours to learn 2 techniques. There is no charge for the techniques. However, We do need at least 6 ladies to commit for 6 months to monthly purchase $25 in product (before shipping and handling) of your choice. We will rotate the $25 hostess credits to insure that each of the ladies in the group will be rewarded. If we have more than 6 ladies, we will continue the number of months for the number of ladies in the group, for example 7 ladies = 7 months, 9 ladies = 9 months...you get the idea, or we can create a second group to meet at another time. You will need to bring paper, adhesive, trimmer, scissors, and a 6x6 album (available through CTMH).

I've attached the specials for this month. Close to my Heart has decided to do something special for you. This Thanks-a-bration only lasts until August 17, so act now before it's too late! See the attachment for more details.

3,976.7 miles later

Nothing says welcome to Texas like 3-digit weather. After spending nearly 2 weeks at more that 5,000 feet above sea level, I find myself having to get acclimated to our weather again. The temperature wasn't as cool as we had expected in Colorado, but it felt so much better than this TX heat. As is always the case though, all good things must come to an end, and so here we find ourselves back home, thankfully safe and sound. All in all we had a great time. We arrive home at 5:00 am this morning just under 4,000 miles in 14 days. I think we have become road-trip warriors.

serenity

Last night, we drove back to Chasm Falls. The first time we visited, we didn't go all the way to the top of the waterfall; so last night, we went back, when there were less people and I go to some awesome shots. We saw similar images in town for sale by a local photographer for as much as $85 for a 5x7 print. I doubt I will sell mine, but I wanted it for my own collection.

Today, we drove to Wild Basin to look at Copeland Falls. It was an easy trail to climb, so Pop was able to come with us. He usually sits out because of his knees, but when we can find one, we look for trails that he can particpate in. We picnicked in the area and as we began to leave we got pulled over by a park ranger. He stopped us because Gary wasn't wearing his seatbelt, but he let us go with only a warning. We are very thankful.

Back at our campsite, the chipmunks and squirrels have been working overtime. I accidentally left a chocolate bar on the table part of my chair and when I looked for it again, it was gone. My first thought of course was my own 2 legged animals, but alas, they were innocent. It really was a squirrely critter. One thing that I noticed for the first time this year is how beautiful the flowers are around here. I have been photographing some of them and I have impressed myself. Here is a few of the ones I thought were pretty.

This evening, we are planning on returning to Bear Lake to watch the sunset. If I can get some good shots, I will share those.

Vacation Journaling

It's Friday morning and we just finished breakfast. We had pigs in a blanket and oatmeal. I'm not sure what we will find ourselves doing today, but I'm sure we will have fun. Wednesday, we took a stroll around Sprague Lake. We also went to the Moraine Park Museum. The kids also earned their Junior Ranger Badges. In order to obtain one, they had to complete a program book and attend a Ranger led program. On Tuesday evening they participated in a program about mountain lions. The ranger asked for volunteers to help complete an illustration. Macy was a deer and Mason was a mountain lion on the prowl.

On Thursday, we drove completely through the park and had a picnic on the banks of Grand Lake. We saw hundreds of elk. On our way back, we saw several mountain goats. We stopped at a little snowfield and used our sleds. We all learned that seeing it done on television was much easier that doing it in person. The sled sank down in the snow and wouldn't hardly budge. We concluded that the snow was too soft, but made the most of our experience anyway. I shot more video that I did pictures, but I did promise that I would upload some.After we got back to our campsite, we realized we had new neighbors. Some of the other kids camping here came over and all the kids played ball. I think there were about 7 or 8 kids here at one time. One of our new friends are visiting from Switzerland and she is learning English still, but I think all the kids realized that playing ball was something they all had fun doing. Later in the evening we attended another ranger program about wildflowers. We learned more than we could possibly want to know about flowers, but it was an entertaining program to say the least. Dakota is looking forward to tonights program, which is all about rocks.

We made it!

Today is Wednesday, July 8th, and we have been here in Rocky Mountain National Park since Monday evening. After setting up camp, we didn't have much time to do anything so we just hung around the campsite. Yesterday, we started up Old Fall River Rd. It's a nine mile long, one way, dirt road here in the park that is only open for about 2 months out of the year. It's the only way to get to Chasm Falls, which is the parks biggest waterfall. While viewing such beauty, I lost all track of time. We loaded back up to return to the campsite and 3 hours had passed. When we got back to the campsite, we ate lunch and then we went into Estes Park (local town) to do laundry.



We went through so much rain on our journey here that a lot of our stuff was wet when we arrived. When we got back to the campsite again, we unpacked the laundry and then loaded up and went to see the other campgrounds here in the park. We normally stay in Glacier Basin campground, which hosts a beautiful view of the snow-capped mountains and has an open field where the kids can run and play. That campground was closed this year for tree removal and should be open again next year. We went to see just how different it looked with all the trees down. We also check out another campsite called Morane Park. We had never stayed in that campground, but we have heard that there are lots of park animals spotted there. We are currently staying in Aspen Glen campground which is barely inside the park boundries. There are more people around us than we hoped would be. There is nothing wrong with this campground, but we prefer Glacier Basin. Last year when we were here at the park, there was tons of snow everywhere; this year, most of it has melted away. We did locate a spot that we might be able to use our sleds for though. If we do, you can be sure I will be taking and posting photos.

God's promise

We left Cody, Wyoming yesterday after a worship time complete with music at our hotel and went into Yellowstone National Park. We arrived at the East park entrance around noon and left the South entrance and went right into the Grand Tetons. As usual, I took many, many photos. While in Yellowstone, we saw one of God's most unique creations. As neat as it was, it was equally disgusting. It was a mud volcano. It amazed me that of all the stories I have heard or read, nothing ever mentions how awful it smells. If you have ever smelled sulfur, then you understand.

We also saw some amazing waterfalls, one over 300 feet tall. I'll never comprehend how anyone can look at such beautiful scenery and not see the hand of God. If ever anyone had a doubt, that alone could seal the deal. As I looked out over the top of Upper Falls, I felt as if God smiled down at me as he graced me with the presence of a rainbow.

We made our way slowly through the park, and it seemed to catch up to us in the end. We stopped to view Old Faithful and we didn't have time to wait for the next eruption. Our plan was to be in Laramie, Wy by last night, but the best laid plans of mice and men often come to no good end. We covered about 250 miles in the dark through territory that would we the appetite of any game hunter. We made it in to Rawlins, Wy at 2:30 am Tx time. We decided it would be best to stop for the night and not tempt fate. God blessed us with watchful eyes as we saw one deer or antelope after another.

We are going to check in to Rocky Mountain National Park sometime today. Our reservation lasts until July 13th. Unless we make a trip into town, I won't be able to update you on our vacation. In the event that I am not able to stay in touch, please continue to pray for our safety.

Cody, Wyoming

Yesterday we left Gillette, Wyoming (if you look on the map, it is north of Casper, Wyoming). Our drive took us through Powder River Pass where there was still snow on the ground. It was 41 degrees at 2:30 Texas time. We saw two moose with antlers. We saw lots of antelope along the way as well. We made it to Cody, Wyoming somewhere around 5ish Texas time. It looked like they had had a parade earlier in the day and that there was some kind of fair on the square equivalent going on here, but we missed most of that. We decided to hang around here in Cody and watch the fireworks show...it just wouldn't seem like Independence day if we didn't get to see fireworks right? Once I finally found the right setting on my camera, I took tons of pictures of the fireworks.

What we found out after we decided to stick around was that there were very few vacancies for hotels, but we landed in a beautiful room that had space enough for the kids to move around in. Here is a picture of it:

Our plans today are to go into Yellowstone, see some bears and bison, and take lots more pictures. We are planning on being in Laramie, Wyoming by this evening and then traveling on to the Rockies tomorrow.

the silver lining

Well, we were rained out at Mt. Rushmore. The fireworks show was cancelled due to inclement weather and we managed to get out ahead of most of the traffic, all of the 20,000 people that came to see it. It didn’t take long for us to find the silver lining in our gloomy day. As we drove through the rain, lightning sprayed the sky and thunder clapped. Dakota sitting in the front between Gary and me, began twisting in the seat. She had that smile on her face that I’ve seen almost every time she poses for a photo. I asked her, “Baby, why are you wiggling so?” Her reply was straight from the voice of God. She said, “I’m posing for God, He’s taking my picture!” It’s moments like these that erase the many miles of “she hit me” and “he pooted again” or the two questions that if I’ve heard them once, I’ve heard them a million times….”have we been here before?” and “are we there yet?” All in all we are doing well. I write this as we are crossing the border between South Dakota and Wyoming. It’s about 12:30am Texas time and the ride is quiet, admittedly another answered prayer.

One thing we did was drive all through Mt. Rushmore area, so I was able to get a few good pictures of the mountain itself and we drove into the town of Keystone. It was a traffic nightmare, but we weren’t in any hurry, so we muddled along and eventually found a parking spot. We dined at a family restaurant, a little on the pricy side, but it did the trick. We stopped in a place called Professor Samuel’s and had our annual family portrait made. Any of you who know me very well, you know that I am always looking for something different and this was just the thing that called my name. Papa decided he didn’t want to go through all the costume change so he sat this one out, just taking in the scenery. (no we didn’t leave him unattended, lol, although I’m sure he don’t mind the break once in a while). For our photo, we stepped back in time. Gary became Marshal Dillon and I was Ms. Kitty. I think we can all safely guess who Festus was. As for the girls, well they filled their part as supporting actresses. Now, before any of you have a conniption fit, the bottles were already empty. This not only made for a fun family picture, but it also gave us the chance to explain the character of such individuals as well as giving them an edited lecture about alcohol. As a homeschool family it is important that we teach and learn lessons when the opportunity allows. After looking back at the picture, I giggled as I thought about what a conversation piece this would be on the wall of a future parsonage….one must enjoy the irony in it.

A little creativity on a long journey

I did a little digital scrapbooking when I wasn't navigating and this is what I came up with. Just a little something to hold on to my sanity while crossing the 1,200 miles we've been so far.

It's Friday morning and we are in Alliance, Nebraska. We stayed in a quaint little motel here, nice but the A/C went out 1/2 way thru the night. Thankfully the weather is cooler here, so we were able to tolerate it. We stopped last night in the town of Ogallala, Nebraska and ate dinner. Let's just say, we won't eat at that place again. We stayed in Wichita, Kansas on Wednesday night. We really haven't done much but ride so far.

Today, we will continue on into South Dakota and stay the day and night there. We will look around for things to do. On our list so far is to stop at Bear Country and watch the fireworks over Mount Rushmore tonight. I will post picures when I can.

Tomorrow, we will head to Yellowstone National Park. We plan to visit Old Faithful and Canyon Valley. Next we will head south through the Grand Tetons and then on to Laramie, Whyoming. Wherever we are on Sunday morning, we will be stopping to take time for worship.

On one of our restroom stops in Kansas, we took time to strecth out and walk around a little. We stopped at a nice rest area and I found the perfect photo opportunity! So this is a photo from our journey so far.

Can I borrow your specs?

After looking, it hasn't been as long as I thought it had since I last posted. At this point, I am finished with this semester as college, although I didn't do as well as I had hoped, I have a 3.5 GPA overall. Considering that a good friend of mine passed away, I started homeschooling the kids again, I did a few photo shoots, and I was going to school full time myself, it's a wonder I haven't pulled out all my hair yet. By the last day of class, I was like a pressure cooker, I had to let off the steam somewhere, and it just so happened that it took place during one of my final exams. All my hard work this semester went down the drain with that bad test grade.
Because of all this stress, I have been seriously thinking about wether or not I should continue my own education. I am struggling to find the balance I need and it seems to be the one thing that doesn't fit into my life right now. I am studying to become a sign language interpreter, and the further I go in the program, the more I find myself asking when will things get any easier, or when will they smooth out a little. I drive 50 miles to class and then 50 miles back home. Living outside of the big city has its many advantages, but after I finish school, I will then be seeking employment, which will also be in the big city. Even with financial aid, there is a hardship on my family when I am going back and forth to school. I know that once I get a job, the fiscal burden will change a little, but will it really make that much of a difference? And then, what about the kids. Even though it is a labor of love, homeschooling is our best option. I find myself then asking, "if I am struggling with balance now with college and a somewhat regular schedule, how will I ever manage a full time job and homeschooling." Some people say, "Just put them in public school." They have been in the past, and it is just not a sacrafice that our family is willing to make. They are only small for a short time. Before long, they will be grown up and they will leave the nest, but until that time, I want to enjoy them. Mom used to say to me, "you can't have your cake and eat it too!" I understand that all to well now.
Maybe I am just having a pity party, but I feel like I am capable of so much more; but nothing ever seems to turn out as good as I had hoped. Maybe my expectations are set to high, thus I am doomed to fail. I don't feel like the things I want in life are so unobtainable. I think part of the lesson I need to learn is that it's ok not to be perfect. I know that I am not perfect by any means. I do think that I am an intelligent individual, and I feel like I am a failure when I am not the best. I don't like the I am overweight, but I don't have the drive or ambition to change it. I know that there are many beautiful people in this world and that God created us all different. The talents and assest he has given me did not include worldly beauty, and for the most part I am ok with that. He also didn't bless me with an abundance of money, and becuase of that, I have developed my creativity and can use it for him. How then can I view my life through His eyes so that I can appreciate what he has given me.
Many people have told me in the past that I am very blessed, and that I am so talented. I just wish I could see my life from their perspective sometimes. It's like that old saying 'You are your worst critic.' I'm sure I am, but I don't know how to see it from another point of view. Its like my lenses are scratched or damaged some how because I don't see the same picture of me that others see. Can I borrow you specs?

I'm so Dizzy

Ever felt like you were in quicksand trying to figure out how you were going to make it out unscathed? It's already the middle of April and I haven't figured out where the New Year went yet! I sometimes feel like I am caught in a revolving door, waiting for it to stop spinning so I can get out. That's where I find myself this semester. I need to blog more often, but it's going to have to be later. I am still to busy to slow down much.

Good-bye 2008, Hello 2009

Seriously, where has the time gone. It's already 2009 and I look back and see what a blur 2008 was. It all happened so fast. I noticed my last post was in August. So much has happened since my last post. I completed a full college semester of 17 credit hours with a 3.9gpa. I worked so incredibly hard at my studies, I am so glad it paid off. I'll be going back next week to start another 17 hour semester. Somewhere toward the end of October, we began visiting Pleasant Grove Baptist Church and participated in thier holiday festivities including the Christmas play. For now, we are back at New Hope, waiting direction from God. Sometimes waiting is so hard. For Dakota's birthday, we went to the Monster Truck Show. I learned that my sister has cancer just a few days before Christmas. She has chronic myeloid luekemia. The Dr. says she is in the early stages and with treatment, she should be fine. She just had a baby at the end of October as well, and I know she is anxious about being a new mother, and now it's increasingly difficult because of the cancer. She is stronger than she knows though. Another big deal for me was getting my van paid off. Finally, being out from under the burden of that debt is such a blessing. As far as scrapbooking goes, I haven't really done much, but I have been taking lots of pictures still. I handmade calendars this year for all the grandparents for Christmas. I even included all the birthdays and anniversaries. I did at least 4 family photo shoots for others. I decided to do a photo card for our Christmas cards this year. I loved the response I received when people opened it. "I saw mommy kissing santa claus" was a big hit around here. It was so easy to put together. I didn't have to do all the hair and makeup and outfits for a change. It was pj's for everyone but santa.

As for New Year's resolutions, I don't really make any. I would like to enjoy more time with my family, serve our Lord, and do well in my classes this year. Another thing that I would like is to have a bigger abode. I don't know if it will happen this year, but it would be nice if somehow we could get it started.

God on the mountain

Who hath measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, and meted out heaven with the span, and comprehended the dust of the earth in a measure, and weighed the mountains in scales, and the hills in a balance?

To everything there is a season:

If there is one thing life has taught me, it's that to everything there is a season. Although hard at times, if I hang on to that thought, it reminds me that this (whatever this is) to, shall pass. The change of seasons can be a good thing and that's just the case this time for me. After 10 years, I am finally going back to school. I can't say that I've ever really seen myself here, but it's happening. In 4 short days, I start classes to become a sign language interpreter. If you would have told me that as little as two months ago, I doubt I would have believed it. I tried once about 8 years ago to go back to school, but baby number 2 was born on the first day of school, so that didn't happen. Since that time, I have been busy running the rat race of life just trying to survive. One night about 5 weeks ago, I stumbled across a website that got me to thinking about going back to school. So in a fluke, I applied for financial aid, and registered for my classes. The whole time I had this sense of hesitation, like I really shouldn't get my hopes up, but I just went on through the process anyway. Figuring that I wasn't going to get enough grant money to cover my classes, let alone my books or fuel (how ridiculously high they both are). Then one afternoon, everything seem to fall into place. My financial aid went through. That was the first sign that this might actually happen. Then reality set in and dh began to ask me how I planned on making it back and forth. We already live from paycheck to paycheck. In that moment a calmness came over me that can only be described as God himself. I explained to my husband that I didn't know, that I honestly didn't have a clue; but that I felt that God would provide. And if He didn't, then perhaps it wasn't time yet. My husband left it at that. The next day, I received a notice in the mail stating that I had unemployment income available for a certain number of weeks. Now you have to understand, I haven't been receiving unemployment since last year sometime and the amount that I will be getting will exactly cover my fuel expenses until my vehicle note is paid in full. But it gets better. A dear friend learned that my printer was not working anymore and she gave me one to replace mine with. She said she had just bought a new one and she no longer needed them both. I am not a cryer, but I wept with joy.

FALL KICK-OFF SCRAPBOOKING CROP

It's the time of year again for football. While I am not big on all the hype about Pro football, I love to watch a hearty high school game in person. For ten years now, our family has hardly missed a game. I don't expect any less from this season. So, as I am so in the spirit of this season, I decided I would host a football themed crop. A crop where you can tackle those photos and score a touchdown as you cross the goal line with finished pages.

We had a blast on our vacation, my only regret is that it was over way to soon. We were gone nine days in all, but when you are blessed with the goodness of God's hand, you just don't want to leave it.
As soon as we returned I began working on VBS stuff. I'll save that for another entry. For now I want to share a little from my travel journal with you.

We made it to the park about 5:30 pm CST. We stopped at Wal-mart in Broomfield on our way to the park to buy food and other things that we needed for our stay. We got the tent and the canopy set up shortly after arrival. Upon entrance to the campsites, we saw 2 bull elk drinking from the brook. While the tent and canopy were being set up, an elk was close enough to our campsite that the kids and I walked up to it within 20 feet. It was the first of many elk and other animals that we saw while here at the park. While driving down the road, we had to stop to allow 3 mountain goats to clear the roadway, and another time we just missed some elk that had crossed the road ahead of us. We have seen mule deer, and been close enough to feed a chipmunk. We have enjoyed seeing the various wildlife that are indigenous to this area.
I think my favorite part though has been the view. It is amazing and breathtaking. I try to capture it's beauty with my camera, but I just don't think a picture can really do justice to what the eye can see in this case. I love the sound of the nearby rushing water. While in the tent at night, it is especially soothing to fall asleep by.
On the first full day we were here, we went for a drive around the park. Last time, we only drove to the hiking trail heads. But this year, we decided we would see what else was around here. As you drive along the road, you gradually increase in elevation. You get to a point where you are atop the mountains and you can look down into the valleys. It can be a scary drive if you let it. There are no room for driving mistakes. Most of the roads are on the edges of the mountains, yielding a wonderful view, but dangerous drive. There are several areas along the roads that you can pull off, park, and just take it all in. We stopped on the side of the road in one place where the snow was higher than the van on one side of the road and the terrain was green on the other side.
Continuing on a little further, we pulled off at Forest Canyon and we were able to play in the snow. The kids built a tiny snowman. They had snowball fights, and we all enjoyed a little laugh at papa's expense. He stepped out into the snow, lost his balance, and went down face first up to his shoulders into the snow. It was only funny because he wasn't hurt, and his reaction would have even made a humorless person laugh.
After enjoying some of the scenery, we came back to the campsite and ate. The kids were out playing in the empty field area next to the campsite when the Park Rangers asked them if they wanted to be Junior Rangers. They gave the kids an information booklet that includes the instructions for obtaining a Junior Ranger badge. I went over the park rules and some of the things they had to do in order to earn their badge.
Needing to do a little laundry and to take a shower, we decided to drive down into Estes Park to a laundromat. We washed clothes and took showers (at the same place). Then we went into Loveland, to Wal-mart, for some things that we had forgotten. We made it back to the campsite at nearly dark. The kids had just enough time to write about the events of the day in there trip journals.
On Wednesday, we had pigs in a blanket for breakfast. A little charred on the bottom, but still edible. As soon as breakfast was over, Gary put on a stew in the dutch oven. Papa sat with it while Gary, the kids and I played. We tried to teach them to jump rope. They lack a good bit of coordination. I'm still not sure that they ever figured it out really. Then we got the flyer (fancy frisbee) out and tossed it back and forth to each other. At one point, I took the kite out and put it together and then flew it for a little while. I guess the kids are still a little to young to grasp just how to fly a kite. It was the first time I had ever flown one, and I really didn't know how to teach them to fly it. One of the kids went and got the ball so that we could play kick ball, but it started raining. That's when I decided to take this moment and record some of the memories from the trip so far. Currently, I have taken 420 photographs since we crossed the Colorado border.
This is only a portion of our trip. There was no internet connection there, so I just saved it into a file and added to it as I could. I ended up with over 1,000 photos in all for the whole trip. Some of them are very similar to each other. I have decided that I am going to have to create a book for this trip alone, and just take a few of the highlights and add them to our annual scrapbook album. I may post a photo here periodically from our vacation, so check back often.

I don't believe we are in Kansas anymore Toto!

My goodness, what a looooong drive it was across Kansas. At over 415 miles of small valleys and lots and lots of flat land, we finally crossed the border into Colorado sometime after midnight CST (even though we crossed time zones about 20 miles or so from the CO border).

We stopped at a church just North of Springfield, MO yesterday on our way out of town. Since we are from the Lone Star State, we went to the Lone Star Baptist Church. It was a bigger church than our home church, but the people were very welcoming. I felt as comfortable there as I would on the pew at New Hope. The preacher brought a message from Genesis 3 about Adam and Eve and the Garden. It was titled the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.

We were back on the road headed for Colorado at about 12:45 (after church). We stopped at a cheese store where there were free samples. Dakota had a blast, I think she thought it was an all you could eat cheese buffet. Back on the road again, we eventually made it to Kansas. I wasn't able to get a picture of the welcome sign because it was at the side of a major highway interchange in Kansas City. So I got a picture of the exit sign instead. We stopped in Wamego, KS and went to the Wizard of OZ museum. I didn't realize, but the kids didn't really understand what they were seeing. I didn't know that they hadn't already seen the movie. So I guess that is something I will see if we can do this summer.

We stayed in an old model motel in Limon, CO. It had a normal door knob with a key instead of a magnetic card entry. It was a nice large room and it had a small refrigerator. We paid less for this one than any of the others we stayed in.

I'm off for now, hopefully to post again not to long from now.

On the road again!

Originally we planned on leaving this afternoon to head to Colorado by way of New Mexico for our vacation. But sometimes you never know what to expect with us. Wednesday afternoon we decided to go to Colorado by way of Graceland. Yep, the one in Memphis, TN. So we started out Friday morning from home (in TX) and headed toward Memphis, stopping often along the way.

Let me just ask you, have you ever traveled any distance with 3 very energetic children. There is only so much sitting that a body and mind can take, and it's even less in kids. They say some of the funniest things. They notice things on the roadside that only a child would see. They perceive things so much differently than us adults. And I must add the inevitable question, "ARE WE THERE YET?" or the way they rephrase it when threatened of uttering those words again. My favorite, "How much farther?" like they have any real sense of distance at this age.

So, back to our itenerary. We really planned just to take it easy and have a good time. We can't check in to our campsite in Rocky Mountain National Park until Monday afternoon. That gives us the weekend to leisurely drive (and stop) across part of this great country. We stopped in Hot Springs, AR on Friday and visited the mountain tower. The kids were excited, but it was short lived. "Ok, we've seen it, can we go now!" We stayed in West Memphis, AR that night, and then Saturday we set out for Graceland. Now Gary and I had made this trip on our honeymoon 10 years ago, but things and places change, and I think we enjoyed it as much this time if not more because the kids were here with us. After seeing everything at Graceland, we turned back and headed toward Colorado. We stopped on the Mammoth Springs, on the border of Arkansas and Missouri, at a little park and took pictures in front of a very forceful and beautiful waterfall. It was amazing at the temperature difference. On the bank of the water source, it must have been 15 degrees cooler than it was 10 feet away from the edge. It was breath-takingly beautiful, and the sound of the rushing water is something I could listen to for hours.

Here it is, Sunday morning. I sit here in the motel, in Springfield, MO, journaling our trip on my blog. Everyone is still sleeping. I guess this is a vacation in and of itself. I don't normally get up before day-break, but I saw the sunrise this morning (ok, even if it was only through the curtain). It feels funny not being at home for church today, but we will stop somewhere along the way to worship. I was searching for a church to visit, but felt like maybe we should let God lead us where he wants us this morning.

Our plans are to continue toward Independece, MO. and then across Kansas into Colorado. I don't know how many more sights we will see, but I think the scenery has been great so far.

Mission Accomplished

I set out to enter the Scrapbooker of the Year contest through Creating Keepsakes Magazine. With everything that has been going on lately, I pushed it to the back burner. I had it in my mind that I had until May 29 to postmark my entry. After reading the contest requirements again, I suddenly realized it had to be in their hands by the 29th. I went into panic mode. How was I possibly going to finish everything and get it there in time. I faced one issue after another. First, I didn't have enough projects for entry. Once I completed that, I had to list all the products and techniques listed in each individual project. That became an increasinly difficult task because I don't keep a running list. So on the projects that I already had completed, I had to figure out what supplies were used. After compiling a detailed list, I had to get all the information onto the computer so that I could put my portfolio together. This is where I began to try to figure out how I was going to get my 12x12 pages into digital format without loosing the quality of my work. Following much deliberation, a few tantrums, and a little ranting and raving, I realized my only option was to photograph them. Let me just add, the lighting indoors is horrible, the heat and mosquitos outside were even worse. Finally, with all my projects photographed, it was time to combine the supply lists and the projects. I can't begin to tell you how many times I nearly gave up. I think my computer was suffering from overload as much as I was. It became very sluggish and I had to reboot a few times. Perservering through it, I continued until I had everything ready to print. I wanted high-quality prints to insure that the extreme effort that has been put into this whole entry wasn't diminished by the look of a home printer. With only hours left, I phoned Office depot to find out how late they were open. Sigh, finally some good news. I had time to make it there and get the prints I needed before they closed and they were on sale. Not realizing that one Office Depot was different from another, I ran to Hunstville instead of Conroe only to learn that they closed at 6 pm. Two and a half hours before I arrived and now there was not enough time to make it to Conroe before they closed. In a panic, I didn't know what else to do. I put all this effort into this, meeting opposition from every angle it seemed. Sick at my stomach by this time because I felt like I was out of options, Gary decided to call Conroe and see if Kinkos was still open. By a miracle, they stayed open until 10pm. So, we head to Conroe, arriving at Kinkos at 9:30 or so. Simply greatful that they are still open, I approached the clerk for assistance. She informs me that the files are in the wrong format, and that she will have to charge me $2.50 per file to open them plus $.49 a print. I've had about as much as one person can stand. How much more am I expected to take. I have worked so hard, but I just couldn't waste the money. How could I justify spending that for the click of a mouse. I suppose at this point the clerk sees my frustration and lets me in on the fact that I can use the self serve computer for $12 an hour and print them myself for $1 a print. I take that option, but with so much emotional turmoil going on inside, I printed the first set in black and white, so I wasted that money and time. I couldn't take it anymore. The tears dripped out. With one last effort, I tried to get it right this time. Finally, there I had it, almost $30 later. I went to the post office first thing this morning and sent it out overnight mail for an additional $20. So, the lesson here is, don't procrastinate, IT COSTS!!!!!!

Where does the time go?

I can't believe it has been 2 months since I have even been around to update my blog. I have been busy with close to my heart and scrapbooking. I had my greatest month so far in April. I would so love to earn the trip to New Zealand. Who knows, it just might happen. I started scrapping with the senior citizens, but we've had to postpone until the fall. I've also started listing some of my work on etsy to sell. Check it out at www.mrsfancyface.etsy.com I only have 3 items listed so far, but I am sure I will have more in the near future. I have also spent the last month or so working on our ladies night out for church. Our theme was sparkle for Jesus and our verse was Isaiah 43:4. I will have to come back and post the devotional I brought. I couldn't have done it without the wonderful help and support of other certain ladies. They know who they are. I was able to use alot of my paper crafting talents for the event. In other news, I have been asked to consider taking the position of Historian for our district WMA chapter and to become an adult leader for our local 4-H chapter. I am in prayer about these things. I love to be involved and feel important, but I don't want to be to b.u.s.y. With summer fast approaching, I think the kids would really enjoy 4-H. I have been wanting to get piano lessons for the kids for some time now, and I am praying for God to open a door and make that happen. Next month, we embark on our family vacation. Originally, we were heading for Tennessee, but somewhere along the line, things changed, and we are going back to Colorado. I didn't really think I would be excited to go back to the same places we've already been, but I really think I am. I think we may have cheated ourselves last time. We didn't stay as long as we had planned, and there wasn't really any snow. This time, there should still be snow on the ground, and we are planning a 7-day stay. We purchased a larger tent, and have been getting things in order for this time. In the way of birthdays this month, we simply went out to Incredible Pizza, watched movies and played in the arcade for Mason's bday and we had a small family fish-fry for Gary. Gary had ACO school this week, and he wanted me to go with him. So, I stayed in the hotel and scrapbooked and played on the computer while he was in class, and we just enjoyed each others company without the interruption of children. The stayed with Papa, and experienced life without mom and dad for a week. They did well, but by today, we were all ready to be reunited again. We made it back, safe and sound, without incidents. I guess that catches things up. Hopefully, it won't be 2 months before I get back on here.

She's growing up!

She lost her first tooth today. Can I just say that this makes me a little sad. I am not ready for her to grow up yet. Losing her tooth is just one more thing that confirms she is growing up. It all seems to have happened so fast. Where did my tiny little "Coda" go? Where is the little girl who was so small that people were amazed when she began walking, thinking she was to young to walk because of her size. It's official, my baby isn't a baby anymore....but you know what, she came to me and said "Even when I'm a teenager mommy, I'll still be your baby!" She still has a way of melting my heart even if she is growing up.

Help me tell their story!

For some time now I have been seeking God's guidance and direction in regards to how I could honor and glorify Him using my talents. After the recent passing of my niece, I was asked to create a scrapbook for her mom. Until that time, I really hadn't realized just how important a legacy I was involved in. I have been scrapbooking for 9 years now. With the pieces being revealed to me a little at a time, the picture is starting to form. I see how I can use my talents now. I am starting a Nursing Home Ministry. The plans are to seek out the stories of the elders before they leave this world. It's common knowledge that most people in a nursing home are on a limited budget and are most likely there because they can no longer care for themselves. I am seeking donations or contributions for scrapbook supplies for this ministry. I have been in touch with several major scrapbook manufacturers, and of the ones that have replied, none are able or willing to donate. But I am not going to let that stop me. I have posted a thread on www.Tallyscrapper.com and on www.twopeasinabucket.com and a few of the ladies there have been so kind and gracious as to donate from there personal supplies. May God bless them for there efforts. With plans to visit at least monthly, those supplies won't last forever. I know that God will supply according to His riches in His time, even if that means I am only able to sit down with a spiral notebook and write their stories as the tell me.

If you want to assist with this ministry, contact me and I will send you the necessary information, and if you aren't sure how you can contribute, simply PRAY for this ministry.

Hand-picked for the Master's bouquet!

This is a photo of my niece that passed today. She is 2 in the photo, but her features haven't changed since. She went home to be with the Lord. It is bittersweet. I am sad that I won't see her anymore, and I can only imagine what her mother must be feeling at this time of great loss, but I take comfort in knowing that she is in heaven, frolicking like little girls do as she crawls up in God's lap and says "It's beautiful here, I am so glad to be here." I picture here asking God to take away mommy's sadness.

At about 3 weeks old, she was diagnosed with myoclonicendocephalopothy, basically a seziure disorder. The doctors told us that she would not live beyond 2 years and that she would always be in a vegetative state. We have been blessed with her for 4 1/2 years in all.

After her diagnosis, I wrote a poem that I would read when this day came. Even though she was disabled, and we knew this day would come, you just can't prepare yourself for what you have to face.

The poem reads: A MEETING WAS HELD QUITE FAR FROM EARTH: IT'S TIME AGAIN FOR ANOTHER BIRTH. SAID THE ANGEL TO THE LORD ABOVE; A SPECIAL CHILD NEEDS MUCH LOVE, HER PROGRESS MAY BE VERY SLOW; ACCOMLISHMENTS SHE MAY NOT EVER SHOW. SHE'LL REQUIRE EXTRA CARE FROM ALL THE FOLKS SHE'LL MEET DOWN THERE. SHE MAY NOT RUN OR LAUGH OR PLAY; HER THOUGHTS MIGHT SEEM QUITE FAR AWAY. IN MANY WAYS SHE WON'T ADAPT AND SHE'LL ME KNOWN AS HANDICAPPED. SO LET'S BE CAREFUL WHERE SHE'S SENT FOR WE WANT HER LIFE TO BE CONTENT. PLEASE LORD, FIND THE FAMILY WHO WILL DO THIS SPECIAL JOB FOR YOU. THEY MAY NOT REALIZE RIGHT AWAY; THE LEADING ROLE THEY ARE ASKED TO PLAY. BUT WITH THIS CHILD SENT FROM ABOVE, COMES STRONGER FAITH AND RICHER LOVE. AND SOON THEY'LL KNOW THE PRIVILEDGE GIVEN IN CARING FOR THEIR GIFT FROM HEAVEN. FOR THIER PRECIOUS CHARGE SO MEEK AND MILD IS HEAVENS OWN......VERY SPECIAL CHILD

Not so Redneck after all

I did this bridal photo shoot today. I loaded the photos and then began looking through them, and I was surprised at myself. I am shocked that I actually took the pictures. I mean, they look like some expensive professional photographer took them. I have been professionally taking pictures now for about 3.5 years, but I mostly do families, kids, and seniors...I haven't really ever done much in the way of glamour.
More than feeling good about my work, I am just so pleased to have had such a wonderfully pleasing shoot. I mean, lots of times, folks want things so perfect that they stress over every little detail. and that stress, stresses me out. This bride was perfect. She was sweet, and easy-going, very down to earth. If all photo shoots were that easy, I might be inclined to do them more often. Truth is, I am nervous every time I have a new client. I worry if they will be pleased, or will I be able to accommodate their needs or wants. I so did not have that worry today. Look at the results:

the Lighthouse

Wednesday night, we attended a gospel concert performed by the FAITHFUL QUARTET at Pine Grove Baptist Church. They sang beautifully, but the greatest victory was the one soul that came to know JESUS. How glorious an occasion for this man to turn his life of to Jesus. Afterwards, we enjoyed good old-fashioned Christian fellowship. Of course there was food. Thursday night we went to Mimms Baptist Church in Conroe for their annual bible conference. This was the 2nd year we have been able to go, and I tell you...the music and the messages are so wonderful and God-filled, that you can't help but to be on fire for the Lord. Like a lighthouse, you want to be a shining light for others that they might see Jesus in you. Brother Herb Reavis was one of the two preachers tonight, and he delivered a message so powerful, and so honest. You can see Jesus oozing out of his poors. I pray that all christians would be like that. I want to reek of Jesus. I want to be like a lighthouse, so that others can see Jesus in me.

One Word

I was on Tallyscrapper looking at all the art journals and this months prompt for the journal entry is one word. What one word are you? What one word do you aspire to be? Give us you in one word. Someones one word was confidence, and anothers was willpower. Someone else's was free and yet another person's is strength. This got me to thinking...what would my one word be. After careful consideration, I decided my one word would be JESUS. I want to be like Jesus. I want Jesus to be what others see in me. But more than that, I want Jesus to be the center or my life. I want Jesus to be the controlling force in my life. I want to let go of the little things and hand them over to Jesus. I trust Jesus with the big things, now I need to let Jesus have the little things. The little things are what chip away at my heart and soul a piece at a time. How come I haven't already surrendered those things to Jesus. How come I feel like Jesus has so much to do that He wouldn't have time for my little things. Jesus has to be Lord of all or He can't be Lord at all. The fact is, Jesus is Lord of all, wether or not we know or believe it. Beliving it or not doesn't change the facts.

BINGO

Most people celebrate New Year by partying the new year in and then party on New Year's Day. Cabbage, black eye peas and cornbread is the holiday meal tradition. The old wives tale is that those foods will bring you good fortune for the year.

Well, I have never been one to go with the flow. I am always creating my own mold. Sometimes that is not so good, but most of the time its great. Last night, my family and I went to church and listened to a few messages and then fellowshipped with each other until 10:30 or so. I had plans of scrapping the new year in after we got back home, but the kids were still up. We decided to teach them how to play "UNO". A game that they should be able to understand and keep up with now that they all know thier colors and numbers. It was the funniest thing, at the end of our example round, Dakota was the first one to get down to one card. Before we started, we had explained that they would have to say "uno" when they got down to the one card or they would have to draw extra cards. She remembered that she was supposed to say it, but instead of uno she proudly proclaimed "bingo". We all laughed. I can begin to tell you how excited the kids were to make Gary and I draw cards or skip by us.

Today, we are preparing a feast. Although it is not the traditional one. Instead we are Bar-b-quing. The brisket and sausage are on the pit now, and the potatoes are being prepared for the potato salad. What bar-b-que meal would be complete without a glass of sweet iced tea.

Oh, I almost forgot. Resolutions are a common part of the new year celebration for most as well. I have really never been one to make resolutions. I don't really know why, I just haven't. I always hear people talk about how they make resolutions that are broken just about as fast as they are made. In a rebellious manner, I decided to gain 10 pounds. I figure that if the opposite of your resolution usually happens, then I was a shoe in to actually lose some weight this year.

scrappers block

So, I have been over at tallyscrapper.com during the cybercrop, and I have been smacked down with the scrapper's block...not because there isn't any inspiration....it's quite the contrary....you see, I see all of the great talent and I am just overwhelmed.....it kinda feels like stage fright...and the ladies there are so great...very encouraging too actually,....trying desparetly to help me lift this scrappers block.....I think its finally nudging....either that or we have chipped away at it enough until I was finally able to create something.....my new blog header......what do you think....do you hear the block cracking.....Thanks tallyscrappers for you help......check out the creativity of tallyworld for youself

creative genius

Today was a rather good day. We had our Christmas play at church this evening. I wrote and directed the play this year. I am glad that others are finally noticing my talents and giving me the opportunity to use them. The idea of the creative genius actually comes from the tallyscrapper website. It is the subtitle under my username. It feels kinda nice, even if everyone else has the same subtitle. This has really been a great crafty year for me...I have completed over 200 scrapbook layouts, over 50 cards, more than a dozen altered items, including 4 paint cans. I have had lots of fun planning parties. We had movie night at the church and I used the decorations from Dakota's Movie theme birthday for it. We had a candy cane Christmas ladies party and I even brought the devotional and we exchanged homemade gifts as a result of a suggestion I made. I really enjoy that we went caroling for the first time ever. Words cannot express the joy that brings for both those participating and those receiving. Earlier this year, I hosted an Elvis concert live in our backyard for Mason's birthday. Alot of the decorations and the invitations and the food is all carefully planned and thought out to match the theme.

round and round

Round and round we go, where we stop, nobody knows....Life is flying by...with so much going on, I barely have time to get online anymore. Between working at the school and now working at the picture studio, and with church activities and football season, and with my Close to my Heart business, and my creative extras that I am making (cards and altered paint cans..I have 2 orders pending right now) and planning the photography for a wedding in about 2.5 months...and the holidays quickly approaching....are you dizzy yet? I am, my head is spinning, barely within control. I hope it doesn't sound like I am complaining, because I really do enjoy the blissful chaos. It's a sign that life is in full swing, and that I am involved in making it all happen, that I am not just sitting back and letting it pass me by. This photo is from the fair and rodeo, but I think it is a very good indication of how my life is going on right now. Have you ever been there? (busy, I mean)