The Elms eXtra

2009-08-31T01:32:00.002-05:00

Boy am I glad the computer can remember what the name of my Blog is..I just started typing in the first few words and then it remembered the rest..Thank you Toshiba!!! LOL

I just have a couple of funny things to tell you that my little Ashlyn has done in the last few days

-We were in a public restroom the other day and she was waiting her turn..after Alayna was all done I was trying to replace the paper lining the seat with fresh paper for her. In the mean time she held her baby doll over the toilet and exclaimed that her baby had gone potty...not getting much response from me and Alayna, she quickly said "Thank you Jesus my baby went potty" as she pumped her left hand in the air to worship for added emphasis!!! LOL

-A few days ago we were riding in the car and from the backseat she spoke up to let me know "Mom I need chocolate, In my mouth, Right now!!!!"

-This morning as we were getting ready for church she had already brushed her teeth and I had jut finished up on Alayna's hair and told Alayna that she also needed to brush her teeth. Alayna was asking Ashlyn if she looked pretty or not and Ashlyn said "You teeth aren't pretty!!!"

-The other day when she went to potty she slipped a little which her feel like she was falling in and she said "Mom don't fall me in there!!!"

Ashlyn is so much fun and supplies us with plenty entertainment! I love her little personality and I can't wait to watch it develop even more! I only pray we can properly train into a young lady without taking out any of her funny qualities!!! Pray for us!!! LOL

Alayna is in the first grade now and Friday I had to pick her up from school a little early. I was waiting in the class for her to get her stuff together and one of her little classmates came up to me and he said "By the way, she is a nice girl!!!" Wow what a compliment from a peer and not just any peer a boy!!!! Oh and by the way She IS a NICE girl!!!!!

On a bit more serious note, I don't know if God had been dealing with you and your church family the way He's been dealing with ours, but for some reason I am getting the feeling that He's been really working on all of us! Whatever it is that He's prompting you to do, DO IT! I am wanting more than ever before to accept the challenge of the hour, roll my sleeves up and dig in and be willing to get my hands dirty like never before!!! He's coming soon, I want to have a whole bunch more people going with me when the trumpet sounds!!! Let's work for Him this week as if it were the last one we had!!!

Love you all sorry for the jumping around in all this writing, but it's been a while and I think I've lost my knack for blogging that FB is messing me up!!!

Overcoming Guilt..........

2009-06-18T15:05:00.011-05:00

Wow here I am sitting and typing again. It's like a slippery slope once you let it go it just seems so hard to come back write about all that you have you neglected to share. There's no way to really catch you up but I'll just try to hit the high points. So facing all my guilt and failure head on here goes...LOL

Let me just first say that we have been having right at 90 people every service. This is quite exciting especially when you think about the fact that we had 41 or 42 voting members when we came!!!! God's so good!

We had a wonderful Easter and although I didn't sew for the girls this year I did manage to find them some really cute outfits.

Because it's been so long since my last post all of these things may not be in the order in which they happened but at least they have been recorded!

We had an awesome service one night and we were all sort of exhausted to say the least. After church was over a lady that was there visiting asked my husband to pray for her little boy who would be going to Children's Hospital for some testing in a day or so . We prayed and then in talking to her she let us know that she had come to receive the Holy Ghost that night. Although we shouldn't have been we were a little taken aback. Isn't it funny how when God answers our prayers we are sometime a little surprised. We talked to her for a little bit and figured she would come back another service and then we would pray. One of the ladies continued talking to her and she really did want the Holy Ghost tonight. So we all went to the prayer room and in about 15 minutes or so she had the most beautiful smile come over her face and she was speaking in that heavenly language.

We have been redecorating for a few months now and in my opinion it looks really good!!! Everyone is so positive and supportive of everything we have wanted to do, God really blessed us when He sent us to this church full of wonderful people.

Alayna had too much decorating!

The young people went to Holiday Youth Convention and had a wonderful experience. We had a lot of fun and they also received a great touch from God in all of the services. We are now gearing up to go to North American Youth Congress!!! The kids have been selling Sno-Cones and standing on the curbs for donations. Say a prayer that God will bless their efforts and they will be able to raise all the money they need and have extra to do some fun stuff with!

We had our Mother-Daughter-Friend Tea and it was wonderful! We were able to go to a tea room and have it there and then the wonderful part was being able to get up and walk away and it all be taken care of. Sis LaJoyce Martin came in and spoke and it was wonderful! I had a wonderful time with Alayna and I know all the other guests did as well.

Alayna had all her end of year festivities at school. We had Track and Field Day and her awards ceremony and finally the last day of School!!! She did great in everything. She won 4 first place ribbons for all the things she competed in. The Softball Throw, the 100 Yard dash, 50 Yard Dash, and the Long Jump. She received an award for Citizenship and All "A Honor Roll". We are so proud of her and all she has accomplished already. Her favorite subject at school is P E she loves to run her laps and be in first place! One of the other little girls had been beating Alayna until Alayna started to wear tights to school and then she started winning. So we had to wear tights everyday..LOL

Camp meeting was awesome, We enjoyed all the speakers but Bro. Davis was just awesome!!!! We enjoyed being with friends and family and this year we really enjoyed having our own church family there! We had a few families come down for Camp meeting and they really enjoyed it as well!

Monkey See Monkey Do!!!

I am sure I have left out many things that I'd like to share with you but that's the price we all have to pay for my negligence! LOL I'll try to do a little better from now on.

I hope you enjoy the brief update and all the pictures!!!

Love you all and thank you for your prayers... I know it's all of our prayers that are making the difference.

Quick Update

2009-04-07T14:10:00.007-05:00

101.....New Record
Last Sunday we had a fellowship Sunday, which means we had Sunday AM service at 12:00 instead of 10:00. After the service we all stayed and ate Hamburgers and hot dogs and play for a long long long time!!! =) It was a blast and when the dust settled we had a new record of 101 in church with us! God is good and we are looking forward to more in the future! I am really hoping that we will again have a new record after Easter Sunday next week!

Thank you all for rejoicing with us as we enjoy the goodness of our God!

God is Good

2009-03-31T12:25:00.002-05:00

I am so excited about what God is doing everywhere! We have been having wonderful services in our local church, and it really seems that everyone I talk to or read about is experiencing the same thing.
I need to catch up a little and tell you that as of today we have had 9 receive the Holy Ghost in six months! (I think... LOL... I may have missed someone.)

As most of you know Texas Women's Conference took place this past weekend and we had a total of 14 ladies attend. A few had to drop out at the very last minute due to serious illnesses. We wished they could have gone but we understood. I believe the ladies told me that most of them hadn't attended an event on the Camp Grounds in at least 20 years. I was sooooo excited for them to go. I have gone to ladies Conference the past several years and always enjoyed them and received a lot but his year on the drive down to Lufkin I experienced a complete new set of emotions and feelings. We had stopped at a convenient store on our drive down and as I washed my hand and looked at my reflection in the mirror I took a moment to have a conversation and just reflect on my life over the past few months. I thought of how if someone had told my of what God had in store and that I would be in this very place taking these precious ladies who now call me pastor's wife to a conference, I don't think I would have believed it. I felt all sorts of jitters and just pure excitement.

Once we reached Lufkin some of us went to grab a quick bite to eat and I couldn't eat very much of my food because I was that excited. The ladies asked me if I was nervous about singing, but I had to say it really wasn't that it was that THEY were HERE and GOD was going to be HERE and that's just about the PERFECT FORMULA for excitement I can think of.

Thursday night was wonderful. God spoke to our hearts through Sis Grandquist about going the 2nd Mile. Friday Sis Miller was awesome and Sis Cooley was wonderful as well after what she talked about I believe I have a new perspective on the worship part of a service. Then Friday night God just sort of took over and we rejoiced and received. I believe that spiritual healings, emotional healings and physical healings were performed for many but I know that God did each of these things for us specifically. I can't wait for all that God did to be revealed and I know that with time as the proof we will see how great our God is. Saturday morning was really icing on the cake. We witnessed a miracle in Sis Miller's life come to pass. She had a financial need and God did more than meet it. No one knew of what had happened in her and her husbands life only a little while before her leaving to come to the conference a great need had arisen and it wasn't of their own making. She told us after all of this happened that she had just put it in God's hands and went own about His business. God spoke to Sis Gandy who was MC of the Saturday morning service and used her to allow us to be a part of this great miracle. In about 10 minutes or so an offering of over $17,000 was given. I have to pause and share a story here of how God works. Sis Julie testified Sunday night here at home and said that she always gets her cash from the bank and a roll of quarters to pay the tolls with. A few weeks ago she had lost her roll of quarters and couldn't find them so she just manage another way. On the drive to Lufkin they found the missing quarters. In that service she felt God leading her to give them to the need for Sis Miller, she then realized how great God was and how much he cares for us. Julie felt like God was telling her she hadn't just misplaced that money but that she had been part of the answer to someone else's prayer. WOW! I'll resume with the Saturday morning service now, My mom wrote a new song and it says,
He put dancing in my feet,
Worship in my heart,
Praise on my lips, and that's just the start,
Joy in my soul,
Peace in my mind,
Life everlasting in Him I find,
I can't thank Him enough,
I can't tell Him enough,
I love you from the bottom of my heart......
There's more to it but that's the chorus and it is such a wonderful song. I feel like it just sort of summed up all of the conference in one song.....well as best as anyone could anyway.

When we got home it was time for Saturday night prayer. We had an awesome time in prayer, and we were ready for Sunday! Sunday morning Bro. Moore ministered in the Holy Ghost, He told us to remember the grapes...or the promises that God has already given to us. He really encouraged us and prepared our hearts for what God had in store for us.
Sunday night my husband had asked all the ladies who attended ladies conference to testify. Let me just say that they did awesome!!!!! They told of what they had heard and what God had done for them personally and what He was going to do! After we all finished He asked us to pray for the congregation that they would be able to get a hold of this same spirit through what they had heard from us. We began to pray and then we began to walk among the people and pray for them. God started moving and awesome things began to happen. We prayed for a while and and then Bro Rick and the newly forming band began to play "Deliverance" as best we can figure, since no one was even thinking of their watch at the time, it was about 1 hour and 45 minutes later that we finally stopped. I think everyone in the church that was able danced before the Lord. I think that some hadn't done that in many many years. It was beautiful. I can't see how heaven will be a lot different than how we felt Sunday night only I suppose we won't have sore bodies come Monday morning...and Tuesday...and Wednesday..LOL During all the worship Sunday night 2 people received the Holy Ghost. I am expecting great things to come! I hope we have just as big a group of men go to Men's Conference, although if they come home even more supercharged I don't know how we'll be able to ....well we all better diet between now and then..LOL

I do have some pictures and I will share them as soon as I can get my camera into my husband's computer. ( I haven't just not blogged I have had some technically difficulty as well.) Hopefully we'll get it together soon!!!

Valentines.....Bunny

2009-02-26T12:39:00.002-06:00

Valentines for me this year was somewhat like the energizer bunny it just kept going and going and going!!! My husband explained that my gift wouldn't be available on Valentines and that I would have to wait until the following weekend. BROTHER, Wait a whole week for something....well I made it. On Thursday evening he told me to get the girls clothes together because they were spending the night at Sis. Joy's. Wow was I surprised. I was then told we would be leaving at 12:30 Friday for my Valentines gift. I'll spare you all the details but it did include a day at the spa and a really nice date with my forever boyfriend. I love this man God has blessed me with. I am soo thankful that after almost 10 years of marriage I can say that I am still just as in love with him as I was that day in August and maybe even a little more so. True love is beautiful and will never die if it's daily maintained. I hope that you keep the love alive in your life not just on holidays but everyday.

I was too busy enjoying everything to remember to snap even one picture...I really hate that we didn't get one picture. Oh. well I guess we'll just have to do it again soon!

The Wiggles...

2009-02-14T00:42:00.002-06:00

Let me explain... I still get the wiggles inside when I have a special date with my husband. Tonight as we walked into the Restaurant there was a nip in the air and my teeth chattered a bit, he looked at me and asked if I was cold. I did feel a little chill but it was the little nervous wiggle on the inside that caused the chatter. He got tickled at me being nervous and excited but it did put an extra twinkle in his eye. I love this man that God has blessed me with. I plan to spend many many more Valentines Days with him and I still hope I get the wiggles and He never loses that twinkle.

I hope you all have a wonderful day with the people you love. Happy Valentines Day to all and to all a Good Night.

2009-02-11T13:13:00.006-06:00

Well I fussed this afternoon on Mom Elms' blog about the absent pictures so I suppose I need to do something about the lack thereof on my page.

I suppose I'll take a moment and catch up as is my style in blogging of late!

-My Man- Let me just say that I am soooooo proud that HE IS MY MAN!!! In the few short months that he has been my pastor I have grown to love and respect him in a new way that I hadn't known before. Seeing his heart grow to make room for all the new people he cares for so deeply is a beautiful thing. I complimented him just recently on how beautifully I thought he had handled a situation. He has God given wisdom that amazes me. He has been teaching and preaching masterfully. His Sunday School lessons have been awesome. However he has been quite long winded...I told him if he's teaching for an hour and ten minutes at 31 then I will probably have to find a new church when he's 70...LOL I am only teasing. The lessons have been such that you really don't realize he's been teaching for over an hour. He's getting ready for our first church business meeting. I can tell it weighs on his mind and he takes it very seriously, but I love to see this side of him, putting his hand to plow and making things happen for the people of God and for the Kingdom of God. All I can say is that from where I stand Greater Apostolic Tabernacle is a blessed people to have such a man to call Pastor.

-Me- I seem to have a lot going but then when I try to start talking about it...mmmm...I am working on Praise group stuff and a Valentines party for Alayna's class at school. We have our second batch of Sunday School literature in the mail on it's way. We have reorganized the church cleaning teams. We are sitting on go waiting for Ladies Conference, I have about 18 to 20 ladies planning to go, so I am quite excited. I know these ladies are going to be blessed in a way they can't imagine and in turn our local church will be blessed upon their return. They are looking forward to the "girl time" too. We had our first Saturday night practice for the praise group and it was a good practice. Sunday night the praise group sounded sooooo good I could hear all the parts and they were confident and they just did a great job!!!! I was soo proud of them all. I am looking forward to the next practice. Below is a a picture of me with our second new baby born since we have been in Balch Springs, His name is Edmond and he is adorable.-Alayna has been sick, but is doing better. She still tires easily and her appetite isn't back to normal yet. Other than that and a little cough I think she's got this bug whipped. She had a field trip last Friday and another tomorrow, then the class Valentines Party Friday at school and an evening with friends since the parents are all getting together in honor of the holiday, so she's really excited.-Ashlyn- Oh boy what's going on in Ashlyn's little world right now. Just a few minutes ago she escaped into the sanctuary looking for her dad. She let me know that she had her shoes on and her purse so she thought it was okay to head on out in her curious George pajama entourage. I will say she took the back exit away from mom this lets me know she DID know better. We are really working on the potty training, some days are great and others it's like potty training what foreign language are you speaking mom. She has learned a new song "Tinkle Tinkle whittle star!" It's really cute.

Okay so that pretty much vaguely sums up the last 30 minutes in our lives...LOL!!! I pray all of you are doing well and that God is blessing in all your endeavors.

Hello!

2009-02-05T22:41:00.002-06:00

I haven't abandoned my blog. There so you can all quit worrying! LOL I just haven't taken the time to post about the things that have been going on so here's the short of it!!

We had two young men get the Holy Ghost a couple of weeks ago! It was really exciting. Then we went to KY and back and now we've been home enjoying our wonderful church. I will say that the Sunday we were away we had 75 in Sunday School. Of course we weren't there and there were 16 others that we were able to count who are faithful that were either out of town or sick. This means if we'd have all been here we would have had 95 in Sunday School!!!! I know we will break 100 really soon. I'll keep you all posted and let you know when it happens!!!

Much love to all you bloggers out there. I must say that I have been enjoying all that you've had to say I have only commented a few times but I've been reading it all!!

We made it!!!

2009-01-20T02:02:00.002-06:00

Thanks to all of our wonderful church family in Balch Springs for you prayers as we travelled today! We had a wonderfully uneventful road trip, and we are now atGrandmama's. We are staying at a State Park as there aren't many other hotel options available. It's really nice and peaceful out here and I am so happy that they have high speed Internet. We actually joked about them having it since our cell phones aren't even working, and what do you know they do!!! Tomorrow we have some things to get done for the big Party coming up on Saturday. My grandparent were always a big part of the city and all it's goings on. Just a bit of trivia knowledge, my grandfather was the mayor of the city for several years. So the city has been invited. My mom and her sister had an invitation put in the paper to invite everyone. I hope all of her friends can stop by for at least a few minutes. She is a wonderful lady with a really big heart, and I am thrilled that have her around to celebrate 80 years of life!!! Well as is usually the case with my family we must arise early in the morning for a home cooked breakfast, this means I need to retire quickly so I can make it.

Whew that was a lot of babbling!!! Sorry! However I do feel closer to sleep than when Istarted. Thank you for listening/reading!

Ashlyn's 2nd Birthday

2009-01-12T22:57:00.002-06:00

Happy Birthday to You...Happy Birthday Dear Ashlyn...to you.

What a wonderful little lady and what a wonderful day. Ashlyn in really two years old I can't hardly believe it. She is so much fun and a true joy to be around. Most of you who know me very well know that Birthday a re a really big deal to me. My mother always made my birthdays extra special and I loved it, so in turn I love to have wonderful birthdays for my girls. My philosophy when it comes to birthday parties are the bigger the better. Thank the Lord for a husband who helps to temper this. LOL Well he really does try to anyway. He had said on more than one occasion do we really need that, to which I quickly reply YES!!! LOL
Ashlyn's birthday falling so close to Christmas makes me want to be sure and make her birthday special. It's so easy when you have a child so close to such a big holiday to not do so much for them. They just recieved there wish list for Christmas and pretty much we are tired of partying by the time Christmas is over. So once again I tried really hard to put all that out of my mind and make sure she had a party as if her birthday was in June!
We had a such a great party with all of our wonderful friends and family. We were so happy to have both of our parents here for all the fun. With the way our lives all are I really wasn't expecting it but I was soooooo happy they were here. Ashlyn didn't really know how to act when all the attention came to her and we all sang Happy Birthday, but with a little coaxing she blew her candles out like a pro. Since Christmas is so close she did great tearing through the gifts. I actually had to re-tape one of them she found a day too early, lol she really like opening them.
Ashlyn recieved all kinds of presents and wonderful wishes for her birthday. Thank you all who shared in the occasion. Today we opened all the boxes and played with all the toys for quite sometime, she really enjoyed everything. She got a magnet set for the fridge that she puts animals into and they sing and talk, we played this for a few minutes and then I was going to show her how it went on the refridgerator, she had a melt down. "Mine, mine" she said over and over as shee pulled at to get it from the door. I suppose the whole sharing thing really comes into to play at this age.
Now it's on to potty training. She's doing really well. If we could stay at home for longer intervals I think she'd be done in a few days. Oh, well she will be potty trained and life will go on.
I have some pictures for you all to enjoy of the day.

Once again and for the last time until next year...Happy Birthday to you...Happy Birthday dear Ashlyn...to you

Happy Birthday Ashlyn!

2009-01-10T01:20:00.003-06:00

I just want to wish my sweet little 2 year old a Happy Birthday! It seems only yesterday you were born. Tomorrow will be all the festivities and pictures, but I didn't want to let today get away without saying it (although since it is 1:20am I guess it did get away from me). Oh well I'm still up so it's still today! Happy Birthday and I hope your party is wonderful tomorrow. You are such a sweet and funny little girl. You bring lots of joy and laughter into our home! I feel so blessed that God trusted me and your daddy with such a precious girl! We love you and wish you many many many more happy years!

Numbers, Numbers, Numbers!!!

2009-01-08T12:54:00.004-06:00

A couple of nights ago my husband ans Alayna were playing a boxing game together and as they would knock someone down the "10" count would start. Ashlyn and I were in the other room and she began to count to 10 with the referee. It caught me so off guard. I had been working with her but we had only gotten to 4 and that was leaving out 3 quite often. We couldn't believe it when she got all the way to 10 all by herself. I grabbed my camera real quick and got a video of it. I hope you enjoy seeing our almost 2 year old count to 10.

This is a 5th grade math problem. This is not a trick question. This is a real math problem so don't say that a bus has no legs. There is no bus driver either so don't worry about counting those legs! That's all the help you get.

There are 7 girls in a bus.

Each girl has 7 backpacks.

In each backpack, there are 7 big cats.

For every big cat there are 7 little cats.

Question: How many legs are there in the bus?

It took me a little while to get the answer But I finally got it. Give it a try! Post your answers and I'll do the big reveal in a day or so!

Oops!!!

2009-01-06T07:48:00.004-06:00

Yesterday was Alayna's first day back to school, and you guessed it overslept... I don't know if I turned off the alarm or if it never went off or what happened. None the less, we didn't wake up in time. So when I did wake up at 8:05 (5 minutes after school has already started) I was really in a panic. I rushed Alayna through the dressing process, tried to cram some food down her and hurriedly put her and her dad out the door. When the door shut I breathed a sigh of relief and walked back into my room to lay down. In about 15 minutes I heard my husband come back in, and then I heard little giggles. I thought this a little odd of my husband, but then just realized that the morning does weird things to people. LOL! It was Alayna laughing her little head off as quietly as possible as not to wake up baby sis. We had sent her back from Christmas break one day early!!! She thought this was the funniest thing ever. She said "Mom, only the teachers were there". Anyway she just headed out the door again, and now dad has returned without her so I suppose that we got it right today! It was fun having one more day it was like our last big surprise for the holidays!

These are just a couple of random pictures I found on my husbands computer. We were at a youth event in Wichita Falls, and Bro Eddie was there doing the lawn one night. So someone decided to let him use the blower on their face and see what it would look like. Here are just a couple of the results. It was hilarious!!!! These two are bother and sister you can really see the family resemblance in the gum-line...LOL

"Firsts"

2009-01-05T13:26:00.007-06:00

Welcome to the New Sunday School Department at Greater Apostolic Tabernacle, Balch Springs Texas. We are Open for Business!!!!!
Sunday was the day of many firsts. First it was the first Sunday of the new year, and the first Sunday of the month, the first Sunday of our NEW SUNDAY SCHOOL!!!!!! It was our first Sunday to take an official role, and the first Sunday for many of our children to ever attend a Sunday School class.

Let me just say...It was wonderful on all accounts. Our church has worked all week to get Sunday School going. With the time of year we are just coming out of being so busy for everyone, we didn't actually get started decorating the rooms until last Monday night. Wow it was a blur of action. All of the rooms look wonderful The Teachers and all their help worked so hard to make it happen on this Sunday. More than one night this past week there were people here until 3am or 4am in the morning working. I will say that the rooms couldn't have looked any better had they had a lifetime to work on them!! They did an awesome job!!!! May I pause to say, I mean SHOUT, "GOOD JOB EVERYBODY!!!!"We had 75 in Sunday School, then we counted 8 - 10 regulars who were out due to sickness or out of town, etc. All of the children were excited and totally loved their Sunday School class. I got some pictures but I didn't take as many as I would have like out of fear of disturbing them all. I am soooooo excited about all the things that are happening. I know God is directing us and will help to meet any challenges that arrive. Here are some of the pictures from our first Sunday!

I must say that we had another first as well but I forgot to snap a picture...Bro Joseph Ouellette from Wichita Falls was in service with us. We really enjoyed having him. It's wonderful to be with old friends and talk about all the great memories that we've made!!!

The Sun is Rising on a New Year

2009-01-01T05:00:00.005-06:00

Well as you can see if you check the post time it's late or early however you'd like to put it. I just came in with the girls from the gym, and we had a blast! Don't worry Ashlyn was asleep a little before we came home. Anyway I wanted to take just a minute and tell you all that we had an awesome service! It was the first Watch night service for our church in a few years so it was extra special. God moved in a mighty way. My husband spoke a little about communion and the sanctity of it before we all partook and then afterwards he cast a vision of what God had given him for this new year! He summed it all up in one Big word, Restoration. He felt that God had put that in his heart for this church and for this year! Talk about getting excited.....WE DID! After this we watch the past three months in slides and it was great! I am so happy for what has happened in just the few short months we have been here but I can't hardly contain what I feel when I think about what is going to happen in the next few months!!!! I hope and pray that all of you had a blessed and safe New Year! I love you all and I expect great things in 2009.

Sisters are a wonderful thing!!!

2008-12-31T14:00:00.006-06:00

For those of you who aren't aware of the fact already, I don't have any natural born sisters. God has blessed with 3 wonderful sister-n-laws, but I never got to experience those girlie girl things that sisters do. When Brenda and I were first getting acquainted it took me little while to get in the swing of being a "sister". She unlike me grew up with 2 other girls one of which is a twin to her. I hear the twin things just makes the connection between sisters even stronger. So I had to get used to showing all my new clothes and "stuff" each time we would get together, i must say it didn't take me long to adjust. I guess that sister thing is in there just need the coaxing to bring it out.
Anyway the reason for my post is, this morning my two little girls amazed me this morning. Alayna likes to go and get dressed and pick out her own clothes from time to time and today was one of those days, only she didn't just take care of herself this time.....She dressed Ashlyn and fixed both of their hair. You should have seen the water bottle in action. Not only did she fix their hair she also combed eyebrows and misted their faces with water. Talk about the royal treatment.
I think thing that really spotlighted that sisterly bond today was the fact that Ashlyn was all about everything Alayna was doing to her. She would stand so patiently and let Alayna comb and spray the water as much as she liked. Ashlyn's new thing with me fixing her hair has been to say "Hurt me" as I comb and brush it. I didn't hear those words one time this morning.
I quickly snapped some pictures of the proud little duo for all of you to enjoy! I am blessed by God to have this little joys as a part of my life everyday. I also feel grateful to be experiencing the best of both worlds...I had two wonderful brothers and thoroughly enjoyed that relationship and now I am watching a beautiful sister relationship unfold in my very own home!

A Brief Hello...

2008-12-31T02:05:00.005-06:00

I am just sitting here for a few minutes thinking of the things I have read on other blogs tonight and reflecting on my own adventures of late, and the things to come in the next few days. As for the past, the newly appointed teachers here at Greater Apostolic have been hard at work making our vision a reality. We had a goal of beginning Sunday School on the first Sunday of the year and guess what....It's going to happen. The room are looking so wonderful! We are excited about everything they have planned and seeing it all come to pass. I can't wait to see the faces of the children who have never experienced Sunday School. I plan to have my camera ever ready for Sunday. The future hold a watch night service for us. I am looking forward to this as well. We plan to start our service at 10:30pm and go until after midnight at least. Then those who are feeling young will stay after for some volleyball and basketball in the gym. Sis. Misty has been taking some pictures since we have moved here and is preparing a year end slide show for this special service as well. So our future is bright, and I can't wait to live in it. God has been so good to us in more ways than you can imagine. The people here tell us often how privileged they feel that we are here, but what they don't know is how we feel the very same way. Sometimes I get overwhelmed when I think of how God picked us to be with these precious people. I often pray that I never lose the joy of the calling! I love all of you and I pray that you are getting ready for the greatest year ever!!!!

I have had a few post without pictures, and since I love to see other peoples pictures I decided to post a few new ones for all of you!!!

Help!!!

2008-12-26T02:13:00.003-06:00

I have a special gift to give tomorrow! I have created a blog for my mother. The first reason is because she has many wonderful thoughts and happenings to share. The second is that her sister and I would really enjoy seeing some pictures of people, places and things in a far distant land! Please visit her blog and help me welcome her with all your wonderful comments. Her blog address is: An Orange Slice of Life.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a Good Night!

Yet Again

2008-12-20T01:37:00.018-06:00

Well the title says it all! Yet again I find myself behind. Life is moving entirely too fast with no signs of slowing anytime soon. How I long for the days when I was a child filled with boredom begging my mom for something to do. You know you once said it too, "I don't have anything to do". Now there are days that I choose to allow myself to "do nothing" but even on those days I feel the constant nagging of all the "THINGS" I should be doing!
So in keeping with the theme of the post I will just lay it all out here quick and to the point as best I can so I can "check" another thing from my To Do list!

We had a wonderful Ladies Christmas Party! It was quaint, fun, elegant, and yet simple. I hope that all of the ladies enjoyed it as much as I did. We decided to have it in the foyer of our church because it was the perfect size, not too big not too small, (well it was a little cozy) it was perfect! I was absolutely thrilled with the participation from our ladies, we had 31 to attend. I am sharing a few pictures from our evening. I don't think there were many if any at all but to those who couldn't make it they really missed out on a great time!

Last Sunday night we had our first Christmas for Christ service! It was beautiful! This service happens to be one of my favorites during this time of year and it was even more special to share it with people who had never been a part of this before! It it amazing and wonderful to see the sparkle in the eyes of those enjoying something for the first time that perhaps has just become a "thing" we do to some of us. It is a blessing to see the wonder of it all alive and well in these beautiful people of God!!!

I must insert an old but quite funny story. A year or two ago when we had our annual C.F.C. service, I had been telling Alayna about how we were going to give a gift to Jesus at church this year. She helped me wrap it and get everything ready for the special service. The Sunday morning before the service as she blessed her breakfast this is what she said, "Jesus, I got you a present, but I can't tell you what it is. Amen! I love the realness that you get when you have children! Now for the big news, (DRUM ROLL) Our church proudly gave over $1800.00 to C.F.C. this year. We are sooooo excited about what God is doing not just in us, but THROUGH us!I think I know what's wrong with the sound system!!!!Section 7 Youth Christmas Banquet! This too was a first for all of us! What a wonderful time we had! Everyone really went all out and looked both handsome and beautiful! We enjoyed the van ride over and all the wonderful food, fun, and fellowship!!!

Family Time!!! We took a little while out to go and visit Santa's Village! It was a really neat time! They have all different little buildings set up with different characters and activities to accompany each! The girls loved it and mom and dad had a nice time ourselves! I love taking time out and doing fun things with the people I love the most!!!!
Lions and Tigers and Bears Oh my!!! Where else but the Dallas Zoo on our first field trip with school! We had such a great time, and I think the kids enjoyed it too. We were able to take Ashlyn along and just relax, follow along and enjoy the day. As you will see in the pictures many of the animals were quite curious about the kids. They came right up to the glass and watched the children for quite some time! Thanks for a wonderful Day!!!

As most of you know my husband is a very serious man (well he is on occasion). Well he may not be serious all the time but one thing he is serious about is the safety and well being of our two little girls. So the other day while out shopping he took opportunity to instruct the girls in a little self defence! What a man, amidst the hustle and bustle of the season he took time to teach our girls! I was nearly in tears as I sifted through the toys on isle 3 of Big Lots, and dodged the young swordsmen or women however you would say that. Okay being serious now it was quite funny seeing a 6'5" man in a foam sword fight with two little girls. They raced through the isles and "cut" people off here and there having a blast with their Daddy. No handsome prince will ever see more love or admiration in a lady's eye than was present that day! Thank you babe for being you!!!!! Our Knight in Shining Armour!!!! I hope you made it to this point because the next few pictures are priceless! Get out and enjoy life with the people you love!!! Merry Christmas!!! Oh I almost forgot I must point out the fact that the giant man is also standing on a step ladder!!!-LOL-Get Him Girls!!!!!

God's Blessing Our Wonderful Church

2008-12-05T13:13:00.004-06:00

I can't believe it had taken me until now to post about this past Sunday. We had such an awesome day in so many different ways! First we had some visitors from Wichita Falls. It was great to see them all and we really enjoyed the lunch together courtesy of the Bryants, Thank you all. During the service that morning Pam received the Holy Ghost. I didn't realize this until later however. Then Sunday night the power of God was soooooo strong from the beginning, well I suppose it was even before that. While I was getting Ashlyn ready my eyes began to fill with tears and I could feel the unprovoked presence of God Almighty as He filled out bedroom. I later shared this with the Praise group and they could feel it too. Sunday night we had 2 more receive the Holy Ghost and I am pretty sure every was was renewed! It was awesome! This was the first service that the Holy Ghost took over and we just let it go!!!! I didn't get pictures of the services we were a little preoccupied but I did get some of our fellowship at lunch!

Thanksgiving FUN!!!

2008-11-28T16:42:00.002-06:00

As with all the Holidays we just relax let our hair down (literally) and have a blast! I have previously stated that I love family but I will say it again, there's not much better than just having fun with people you LOVE!!! This year started out with a bang! Poppy had a fire going out in the pasture when we arrived. I really didn't notice it too much until it got too dark for us to race in the scooters up the drive and attempt to ride the rip-sticks (those things are dangerous). Then as we all headed for the back porch to to get cleaned up WE SAW THE FIRE!!! Immediately we knew we had to roast some marshmallows, only Grammy didn't have any big ones so we settled for a hot dog roast! Me and Steph took the kids out and had a blast roasting and eating burnt hot dogs! One of the funniest things that happened was watching Lamarq run from the ants. He was wearing flip flops and he kept standing right in the middle of the ants. We got him out of them and then in a few minutes he hollers, Somebody just poured ants all over my feet! LOL He was standing right back in them! There have been countless games of softball and football and lots of castles built in the sand pile! The kids have all played so well together with only a minor disturbance, when the kids from up the street said that their poppy was grumpy they all got a little upset, it was funny how they each came to us and told of what they had said about poppy so protective of the man they all love!!! The meal was great as usual but the company was wonderful! There's nothing better than being with people you love!
I did take some pictures and I was looking forward to sharing them the problem is they are on my mother's computer and the CD drive that you burn a disk with will not work sooooo no pictures for now, sorry Aunt Kathy!

Fall Festival '08

2008-11-24T19:29:00.003-06:00

Well I have really been waiting to post about our fall festival until all of you posted about yours, so that all the hype would die down and my post would be extra special!!! LOL Actually I've been too busy doing other things so I wouldn't run out of things to post about! I am sort of making sure i have blog ideas for the future before I use the one I have! Okay that was an unnecessary opening paragraph I do apologize!

Anyway, for whatever reason I have or have not posted here it goes now! We left Wichita Fall way back then on Oct 30, to head to Balch Springs for a night of fun! We had our first annual Fall Festival and it was a huge success. Everyone had such a great time, and we had lot's of visitors! Sis Misty took lots of great pictures again, thanks! I also took some of Ashlyn and Alayna before we left Wichita Falls. We also want to say thanks to Aunt Sharon for the adorable Bumble Bee costume. I hope you enjoy the pictures.

Dear Journal

2008-11-20T23:50:00.002-06:00

I've stated in the recent past that I would like to Journal but I just don't take the time to sit and do it at the end of the day. However, if I were to journal one my entries would read something like this...

Dear Journal,

I have had an experience that has both been one of the most exciting and one of the most anxious ones of my life. Although I know this is just the first of many to come it still didn't lessen the impact it had. I'll just dig right in and share with you. In my new role I have had many different encounters already, one of which has involved me encouraging someone that God was going to come through on their behalf. Although I have had to trust God for myself on many different occasions all of which have resulted in different outcomes. I have seen God "come though" and make it "all right" and then I have had to just walk by faith. All of us who have lived for God for any length of time have experienced what I am talking about, can I get an Amen! However trusting God for another's desperate situation is a bit different. I kept assuring this precious child of God that He would come through while on my own time I was desperately seeking the Lord's intervention on their behalf. All through the day I would find myself lingering in prayers about this situation sometimes in my struggle I would say God, You have got to come through. I knew He would, but when He did...WOW! As I sat at lunch with my family my cell phone rang and it was "them". I must say each time I would speak to them I was a little on guard trying to say only the right things because I really didn't know what God was going to do. I just knew that His ways are perfect and that He would take care of it. So I said a cheery hello and what I was met with on the other end was a voice full of excitement just waiting to tell me how God had done it. I don't want to invade privacy with the details but just know that when what you receive is just what you need to the penny you KNOW that God is in control. I can't say that I've been any more happy than that moment to hear the voice of a blessed person and then to be able to just relax and smile and say "I TOLD YOU HE WOULD DO IT!!!"

Well since this is my first journal entry I am not sure how it should end so I'll just say goodnight!

Hip Hip Hooray

2008-11-19T16:13:00.002-06:00

I finally have Internet service!!! I am soooo thankful to be able to BLOG and get on EA again I used to think my Mom-n-law had the worst case of bloggers bug ever but it gets really bad when you have soooo much to say and tell people about and you can't!!! So get ready, cause it's coming! Maybe tonight after service I'll sit and write. Right now I have to go and finish cooking my first meal in our new home. So far so good but I haven't started on the veggies yet. I must admit it's a bit scary to think if I burn anything the WHOLE church will know. lol I have pictures and much to tell you of when I return. TA TA for Now!

Give Honor to Whom Honor is Due

2008-10-30T22:25:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to take a quick minute to let you know that all of these wonderful pictures from Balch Springs are the handiwork of Sis. Misty Strahan. She has agreed to be our resident photographer so these and any more like them are probably her doings! Thank you Sis. Misty! Keep up the good work!!!

Wonderful Weekend!!!

2008-10-28T20:45:00.008-05:00

I suppose I will begin at the beginning, which is Friday night. We attended our first sectional function as members of Section 7. It was wonderful because my husband was able to sit with me and enjoy the rally and not have to plan it or be up front! Some people may not understand this but it is wonderful to just go to something and not have to plan it! Anyway we were the new kids on the block, so to speak, but our church came out in force! For sure we had the largest representation according to our congregation size, but I really think we had the largest number of people there, period! We were soooo proud. We had elders and young people alike enjoying the rally, and afterwards the company of each other. We ALL went to eat at Posados and enjoyed a time of fellowship! Then bright and early Saturday morning, we began an awesome workday. We had around 47 people there to help do whatever!!! Someone told me that some of their family, who no longer attend our church, called them on Saturday morning to find out what was going on at the church. They are watching, and before too long, they'll be joining us! We cleaned out the Sunday School building, and by cleaned out, I mean everything! We filled up a 20 cu. ft. dumpster. It was wonderful to get it all cleaned out and ready for a good scrubbing and painting. Some of the men then went and cleaned out some of the storage rooms in the gym. We stopped and ate lunch, and then went back to work! I know work and fun don't usually go together, but Saturday they did! After all the work was over the men broke out in a good game of football, until someone got hurt! It was a minor injury and every one's okay now! The lady's all pitched in and helped out the current cleaning team to get their stuff done before that night! Can I just say there is nothing better than working for the kingdom of God with His wonderful people?!I think somewhere around 6:00 pm or so that most everyone left to grab a bite to eat before prayer. Then, at 7:30, we all came back for a time of prayer! I had told two or three different people that day that we were going to have an awesome weekend. I could just feel it! You can't be together with your brothers and sisters, and work in unity, without it effecting the move of God among you! I was right, the prayer Saturday night was beyond description. God met us in such a powerful way! Then in keeping with Greater Apostolic Tabernacle tradition we fellowshiped until somewhere around 10:30pm, it was wonderful! Arriving early for prayer on Sunday morning, you could just feel the undercurrent of the move of God! My husband preached one of the greatest messages I have ever heard. He has preached it before, and I feel it is one that every person trying to live for God should hear! He titles it "Overcoming...Me". He explains the difference between conviction and condemnation. One of the most powerful points in the message is when He explains how God can keep forgiving you when you seem to keep messing up in the same area. When God forgives you, He forgets your sin. His Word says He casts our sins into the Sea of Forgetfulness. Who are we to reach through the blood of Calvary and pull out those things that God has forgiven and forgotten? Conviction is from God and it brings repentance, but condemnation is self inflicted and causes us to shut down. We feel like we are failures even when we've been forgiven. My husband says it puts guilt on the forgiven and chains on the free. The difference between Peter and Judas was that Peter was convicted and Judas was condemned. People who are condemned in there own minds are never able to work in the kingdom of God. They always feel like they are a failure, or they dwell on their failure, rather than having faith in the blood of Jesus to forgive and cover their sins. After the service was over, one of the ladies who has been in church all of her life, and now has children of her own in their teens, told me that she had never really understood the difference between conviction and condemnation. She said, "While he was preaching, I realized why God can forgive me for the same sin over and over, because for Him it's the first time! He doesn't remember the times I've asked Him for forgiveness before!" Talk about liberating someone to walk in the victory of the forgiving blood of Jesus. All of this, of course, hinges on a person always striving to live for God and is in no way a license to sin. Sunday morning was a beautiful time in the presence of God, and we are growing together and becoming more like Him!
After a little afternoon siesta we came back for anther awesome service! The praise and worship was great and then the word went forth and it was .....I can't really think of the right words to do it justice. I have been so in awe of the way God has been using my husband. I know him like no one else does. I have heard every message he's preached in the last 9 years, and they have all been wonderful. However, the anointing that has come upon him as he is leading this great people is just causing my jaw to drop! God has given him different anointing for the different places and times of his ministry, and it is beautiful to see what He is doing now! He preached "The Hammer and the Sword." I can't tell you all about it but I will tease you with this little bit. When God called Nehemiah to rebuild the walls in Jerusalem, they were under attack of the enemy. Nehemiah instructed the builders to work with their hammer in one hand and their sword in the other. As a church trying to rebuild some walls that have been torn down, this is what we must do! We must build one another and use our sword to defeat the enemy when he comes against us. Another beautiful point that he made was we must have the wisdom to know when to pick up the sword, and when to put it down. Many young Christians have been hurt, and permanently damaged, by someone wielding the sword, when they should have been encouraging and building a brother with their hammer! Well, as I said, it's just a teaser because this post would be too long for anyone to read if I wrote it all. I suppose you could get a copy of the CD if you want it. After the message, we all went forward and joined with our families for a time of prayer. After some time, we were sort of moved out of the way for Angela to make her way to the altar. Angela is someone who has lived for God in the past and now has made her way back to God! She was sitting in the back of the church when she looked at her sister-n-law and said, "Will you go up front with me?" They had not much more than laid hands on her head when she began to speak in that heavenly language! She would stop for just a few seconds to utter through her tears, "Thank you God for giving me another chance, thank you God for another chance," and then she would once again speak in that heavenly language. I know all of heaven stopped, and the angels were rejoicing over Angela coming back to God. I know this is only the beginning, just a hint of what God has in store for us, but I am sooooo excited. I know our mission field is full of hungry people just like Angela looking for a second chance at God and life. Please continue to pray for us as we shine the glory of God in our city! I can't wait for Wednesday night. I know something just as powerful is in store for us! It is wonderful to have anticipation in your spirit about the things of God! I will do my best to keep you all informed, as it is encouraging to hear a good report!

A Wonderful Weekend!!!

2008-10-20T21:39:00.007-05:00

Pamela and Ashlyn matched Sunday and so we had to have a picture!

...and we're off and running! What an awesome God we serve! I am always amazed at how He does things. During our time of transition I often prayed and about where God would put us and about how we would feel when it was "right", but in all my prayers I never dreamed it could be so good! During this time of waiting we had another door open to us but I just felt yuck about it! I asked my mother if she had ever felt "NO" about a place that God had moved her and dad or had she always felt good about it and knew it was right! After thinking it through as she always does, she assured this was never the case for them! I continued to pray about things and I prayed God if it is your will for us to go there then you have to let me have joy and peace about it! Well that obviously never worked out and now I understand why I felt that way! God was preparing us and Greater Apostolic Tabernacle for each other! Thank you Lord! I can say that I am happy and I feel peace even amidst the changing in my life. I guess it's a woman thing that we kinda like everything to be settled, but I can truly say that in the middle of my current world (my home) being turned upside down I am happier than ever and I have a peace like never before! God is Good!

...back to the weekend. We had a wonderful service Sunday morning God really met us there and touched each of us in a special way. Then on Sunday night my husband started off by reading Palsm 150, we then went into a great worship service! During this part of the service a couple walked in and sat near the back of the church, a little while later they moved up to the second row. Come to find out the lady was a grand-daughter to Bro. Haney they really enjoyed the service and at the conclusion they said how friendly everyone was here and that they were looking for a church to attend regularly. We found out that they lived just across the street and would probably be back! That was exciting to everyone to have some candidates for the Holy Ghost in the building! Okay, back to the service. When my husband took the pulpit to minister he spoke a little about how our testimonies and a good report causes our bones to be fat. After a time of instruction on how to testify and BE POSITIVE!!! we had a good old-fashioned testimony service. It had a little twist to it that we used to do in Youth Services, we called it God bless. What this means is that after you finish you testimony you simply say God bless someone else and then they have to testify. A little while later our bones were sure fat and we had heard from everyone in the congregation! It was wonderful!

When I was blessed I shared a scripture that God had given to me and my husband during our time of seeking His will. It's found in Isaiah 41:10 I read it and talked about the strength that we had received from this passage and encouraged them to get a hold of this same scripture when they face a difficult time! I am sharing my testimony only because after church a couple of the ladies called me over and told me this: When the church in Balch Springs had been having one of there meetings concerning voting on us or not this lady had stood up and read that exact scripture to the body! Wow I am still amazed at how God works! Another of the testimonies was about how God sees us as pieces to a puzzle and He know exactly where to put each on to make the bigger picture! She said "God never gets a piece or person in His hand and questions where they're going to fit He already has the perfect place prepared". After service it felt like we had been sitting around at a family reunion hearing wonderful stories about our family! We felt so unified and such a spirit of love and camaraderie! I hope your weekend was half as good as ours, and I pray that next week is even better!

More about Balch Springs!

2008-10-14T01:21:00.006-05:00

We had a wonderful weekend! My husband and I kept commenting on our "Happy" we feel! It's not a surface happy but a deep contented happy. Andrew told me on the drive home Sunday night that he has never been this happy in his life! WOW when God does it right He does it right! We are meeting with a realtor tomorrow and hopong to get the process going! So if you know anyone who wants to buy a house let us know. lol Mom Elms sent me some pictures that she had taken of the inside of the church so I thought I would post them for all of you who probably won't be seeing the church for a while. I also have a few from our first Sunday, I hope you enjoy!

Visit www.moblyng.com to make your own!

Happy Birthday BABY!!!!

2008-10-10T01:06:00.007-05:00

I want to wish the most wonderful man alive the happiest birthday ever! You are the love of my life and the answer to every prayer I ever prayed when seeking a mate! I hope today brings you much joy as you embark upon a new phase in your life! I am enjoying watching you pick up this new burden and begin to shoulder it as many have done before you! I know God has great things for you to accomplish! I love you! Happy Birthday!!!
Love You,
ME

To Alayna our little Bundle of Joy who just won't stop growing up and having these silly birthdays, I love you and I am soooo proud of you! You are an obedient and very caring child even at your young age of "6". You are the cat that your sister never stops copying! I always tell you how important it is to always do the right thing because Ashlyn is coming right behind you doing everything you do! I know you will set a great example for her to follow! I love you and I wish you the best birthday ever! I know you'll have a great time with all your friends at you sleepover!!!!

I Love you,

Mom

We're Moving!!!!!!

2008-10-09T22:15:00.005-05:00

We just got word from the wonderful church in Balch Springs, Tx, GreaterApostolicTabernacle">(click link for a street view of the church...give it a second to load). They asked us to be their new Pastor and family! We are ecstatic to say the very least!

I want to share just a little of the story of how it happened for us, if I may. Well I guess it's my blog and I can do as I please, it's your choice wether or not to read it. LOL! Anyway....

As many of you know we have worked in Life Tabernacle in Wichita Falls for nearly the past 6 years. We have loved every minute of it. The people have been so wonderful, and we have friends that will be friends for life!!! After God moved the Elms and things happened in our lives, we knew God was preparing our hearts to move us. We just didn't know where we were going. During this time, we were at a bit of a low, and I remember saying to my husband, "God has people somewhere who need us." I really don't know where the words came from, but they sure comforted us during our time of waiting on and trusting in God. As we traveled home from Camp Meeting, we were talking about what God might be doing with us, and feeling a little frustrated because it felt like He didn't know where we were. I looked out the window of the car and read a church sign as we passed. It read, "Read Isaiah 41:10". We were in a conversation, so I reached down and got my bible and held it open to the scripture until we finished talking. This is what it says "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; Yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." We have held fast to this scripture during this time of waiting, knowing that He was our God and He did know where we were, and what He was doing in us.

We decided to take our little family vacation to Dallas this past Summer, and while we were there, we met up with the Elms to have a bite to eat. They had been in Balch Springs at the request of the church to help them during their time of transition. As we sat at dinner that evening, they began to share with us about this church they had gone to. I listened and we just enjoyed talking about what God was doing for them there. After we left the restraunt, Andrew told me that when Mom was talking about the church, he looked down at his hands to see if they were trembling. He said, "My insides were shaking so much, I thought my hands were shaking." As we drove that evening in a light shower, the most beautiful rainbow filled the sky. We just kind of said to each other, "It's a promise from God that He knows where we are!" A few days later we got a call from the spokesperson of the board in Balch Springs. He asked us to come and preach for them on a Wednesday night. We readily accepted. After being there on that night with the people, I have to say that we did fall in love with them. Love at first sight if you please! After being there that Wednesday, my husband woke up early and just had to go back to the church on Thursday morning. He sat in the parking lot and prayed. We left and came home, and began to pray and fast about what God would have us to do about what we felt! During this time we recieved another call about going to the Austin area, but we both felt a "NO" in our spirit immediatly. We still prayed about this door that had opened and honestly told God that we were willing to do whatever His will was. When the church in Balch Springs began to take resumes', my husband sent ours in and we just waited some more to see what God wanted. We were scheduled to go and preach in Balch Springs after two other men. The door in the Austin area closed and this made us feel even stronger about Balch Springs. When we went to "try out" it just felt so right, but we kept checking ourselves and saying whatever God's will is. Then, tonight to recieve the call and we were voted in by a large majority it just feels right!!! I feel humbled that God would choose us to serve in such a great way. If there is anything I have always wanted, it's to serve Him to the fullest of my abilities! We are honored more than words can ever express to have this priviledge. After having been on this journey with the Lord, He is even more dear to me than ever before! Now our house just needs to sell and we need to get there! I am not real sure how to end such a post, as I have never written one of this nature, lol. God is good, and He does know the right time and the right place for each and everyone of us!

Happy Birthday!!!

2008-10-06T22:59:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to say a Happy Belated Birthday to Aunt Kathy! I hope you had a wonderful day! I love you!!!

I'm Sooooo Excited!!

2008-09-24T13:06:00.004-05:00

I know to some this is no big deal, but this to me is the find of a lifetime! LOL Really since this new craze has come out with making your pictures black and white and then just having some things highlighted in color, I've wanted to be able to do it. My husband has worked some with a photoshop and I've tried to get him to do it but he hasn't figured it out yet. So last night while searching the Internet for some some scrapbook ideas, I happened upon this program. You could purchase it instantly and begin to create! My resident computer/Internet tech (Andrew) said it was legit and so I made the purchase and Bam I am making these pictures instantly! It is sooooooo easy! I love it so much so that I sat here for at least 2 hours changing pictures on my computer. Here are a few just for fun! What do you think?

Update

2008-09-18T11:59:00.008-05:00

I just spoke with my parents again, all is well. Dad has been released with a sprained neck/whip lash. Thniking about what could have happened so easily I am feeling blessed as are they! Thank you for your prayers!!!

Good News and Bad News!!!

2008-09-18T11:59:00.005-05:00

Thank you Jesus for protecting these two wonderful men!!!

I believe it was Tuesday night that my family received their power back. They were very thankful and quite excited about the possibility of getting some semblance of normality back into their lives! Since then they have focused on others and what they can do for their community and the surrounding areas. My mother and grandmother travelled to pick up some window units to give away and they've been in touch with the local radio station to help find people who need things the most! I told my husband the other day before all this started that I remember the feelings of unity that a crisis tends to bring and I wish in some way we were closer to be a part of the restoration! Things although not good are looking up and there spirits are are lifted as well! It is amazing how when we shift our focus to others how much better our situation immediately appears to be! Through all of this in speaking with my family Mom reassured me over and over they were fine and then she would say there are just so many who have it so much worse! My brother told me this morning that one of the nearby churches has at least 45 families that lost there homes! Please keep them all in your prayers and reach out at every opportunity you get!

That was the good news the bad news is that this morning on one of there generator runs my dad and brother were involved in an accident. A man didn't see them coming and just rolled out into the intersection and they couldn't get stopped. the airbags deployed and that's where my brothers injuries came from, dad is complaining about his neck. They are pretty sure it's just whip lash but his doctor wants to do a cat scan just to make sure! I haven't heard back from them yet as to what those injuries are for sure. I just wanted to make a quick post and ask you all to remember them in your prayers! Thank you!

Let's go Ride a Bike!!!

2008-09-14T14:51:00.003-05:00

Friday afternoon We removed the training wheels from the little bike and off she went! It did take her a few tries but she did really good in a really short amount of time! There were a few little scrapes and falls but nothing major!

Way to go Alayna! You are doing so good riding your little bike!!!

Alayna gets really brave as she plays with a Baby Lizard!!!

A Smahing Hit Say The Critics!!!

2008-09-11T22:30:00.007-05:00

Tonight was Alayna's first school program! What a delight to see your child perform! I was actually really amazed at the songs they had managed to learn so quickly! We did get video of the whole thing but all I got on my little camera were these couple of clips, so for all of you who just can't get enough...LOL...I apologize! I must tell you that the one song on the clip Alayna did get my permission to sing. She came home from school a few days ago and was a little concerned about what they were wanting her to sing, she wasn't sure if we'd like her to say the words. I was a little surprised at her asking this so I questioned her about the words and she reluctantly told me "A tootie ta a tootie ta a tootie ta ta" after a few giggles I assured her it was alright! It turned out to be our favorite song of the evening! Here it is for you to enjoy! I also wanted to say a big thank you to Aunt Sharon for coming, it sure made Alayna feel extra special!

Aunt Sharon and Alayna Ashlyn stops just long enough to strike a pose!

Happy Birthday to Me!!!!

2008-09-10T19:19:00.002-05:00

No it's not really my birthday! However I did celebrate it last night with a bunch of other birthday girls! We had our birthday party for all the Ladies of Life last night, it was so much fun! We ate and ate and ate until we were quite miserable and then we ran around and played games until we were really miserable. After all that we ate birthday cupcakes and each of us recieved a present! It just can't get any better! Here are a few pictures as promised Sis. Prince. The ladies on the committee brainstormed and we decorated each months table with a theme to go along with the month. Jan - New Years, Feb. - Valentine's Day, March - Easter, April - Showers (April showers bring May flowers) May - Flowers in bloom, June - Weddings, July - patriotic, Aug. - Back to school, Sept & Oct - Halloween (we combined these two due to the lack of births in Sept.) Nov. - Thanksgiving, Dec. - Christmas. As you will see we had a wonderful time!!!

Aunt Grandma!

2008-09-10T18:45:00.002-05:00

Monday was Grandparent's Day at Alayna's school. Since she didn't have any grandparents close enough to make it in time for lunch, she really wanted Aunt Karla to fill in for the day! With all the happenings over the past weekend I didn't find out about this until Monday morning so We called aunt Karla around 8:00am and she was able to make it happen! Thank you so much for being there Aunt Karla it was very special and she will never forget it! It was a little funny when people kept referring to Aunt Karla as Grandma...either ma and Andrew look really really young or...well we probably look really young!!!!lol

Treat Her Well

2008-08-25T14:00:00.002-05:00

Dear world,

I bequeath to you today one little girl in a crisp dress , two twinkling eyes and a happy laugh that ripples all day long and a flash of shiny hair that bounces in the sun when she runs. I trust you’ll treat her well. She’s slipping out of the back yard of my heart this morning and skipping off down the street to her first day of school and never again will she be completely mine. Frail and proud she’ll wave her young and independent hand this morning and say “Good Bye” and walk with little lady steps to the school house. Now she’ll learn to stand in lines and wait by the alphabet for her name to be called. She’ll learn to tune her ears for the sounds of school bells and deadlines and she’ll learn to giggle and gossip and look to the ceiling in a disinterested way when the little boy across the isle sticks out his tongue at her. And now she’ll learn to be jealous and now she’ll learn how it feels to be hurt inside now she’ll learn how not to cry. No longer will she have time to sit on the front porch steps on a summer day and watch an ant scurry across the crack in the side walk. Nor will she have time to pop out of the bed with the dawn and kiss the lilac blooms in the morning dew. No, now she’ll worry about those important things. Things like grades, and which dress to wear and whose best friend is whose. The books and learning will replace the blocks and dolls. Now she’ll find new heroes. For 5 full years now, I’ve been her sage and Santa clause and pal and playmate and mother and friend. Now she’ll learn to share her worship with her teachers which is only right but no longer will I be the smartest greatest lady in the whole world. Today when that school bell rings for the first time she’ll learn what it means to be a member of a group with all of its privileges and disadvantages too. She’ll learn in time that proper young ladies do not laugh out loud or kiss dogs or keep frogs in pickle jars in bedrooms or even watch ants scurry across cracks in sidewalks in the summer. Today she’ll learn for the first time that all who smile at her are not her friends and I’ll stand at the front porch and watch her start out on that long lonely journey to becoming a woman. So world I bequeath to you today one little girl in a crisp dress with two twinkling eyes and a flash of hair that bounces in the sunlight when she runs. I trust you’ll treat her well.

This is not original with me I heard this on the radio about two years ago, my husband printed it off and we kept it for just this day! It sort of helped us in the whole mourning process...LOL.

Last night at church we had a special Back to School service, this was a very special for all the students and teacher as well as parents! There are a few pictures of the service.

This morning we left for the school around 8:00 they don't start until 8:20 and though we were ready a little earlier we didn't want to seem over anxious. Alayna was quite excited and acted as though she'd been in school all her life. She had to turn her little card to let the teacher know she was present, then find a table with a box of toys on it and play! She had already made a couple of friends before we left. For all of you who were so concerned about the parents we did okay. I held it all together until I left the room then a few tears did escape down my cheeks. I must admit we were one of the first in the line to pick her up this afternoon! She told us of all her adventures and all the fun of school, and yes she can't wait until tomorrow!

I hope all of you had a great first day as well and a great year to come! Here are the pictures, I told my husband that I didn't feel like I got enough. It's such a momentous in there life and I just didn't think I took enough pictures, He assured me I did!

Alayna Meets Her Teacher - Mrs. Herron

2008-08-23T12:18:00.003-05:00

It's official, Alayna is going to school. Andrew and I went to the school on Wednesday evening to meet Alayna's Kindergarten teacher and find out all the parent stuff. Then on Thursday night it was Alayna's turn to go.
When we walked in the classroom for the first time Alayna was a little ahead of me and was just drinking it in. I excitedly said "Alayna don't you love it?!!!" No sooner had the words hit the air that I felt the tears. I didn't even know they were there, they just started to flow. Thankfully there were no other people in the room at the time except Mrs. Herron who quickly pointed me to the Kleenex and reassured me that I would still be doing this the day she went off to college. It is such big thing just knowing that she is old enough to go to school. I am not sad for her to go I feel she's plenty old enough and prepared for it, I think it's just accepting her age in such a big way that's getting me.
I took a few pictures in the room that night. Mrs. Herron had a checklist of things we had to do in the room such as; Find the bathroom, Place school supplies in her cubbie..... so on.
Lawst week Mrs. Herron sent a letter to Alayna with a picture of an apple tree, the instructions were to put an apple on the tree each day until they are all filled and then we'll know it's time for Alayna to go to school. Of course she loved to get the mail, and she has faithfully put the apples on the tree. Guess what there's only one left!!!! That means Monday is the big day!
I hope all of those who are starting school in the next few days have a great year and enjoy the time in life where they are. Growing up I heard the adults always say things like, Oh if I could just go back to the days of school how wonderful that would be, or I'd give anything to be back in school. I thought then they were crazy and I still do today, but I do understand a little more what they meant. I think as children in school we don't realize how wonderful life is for the most part, to be a complete dependant on others. Back then your biggest concern was if you forgot your homework or not, not if you had enough money to pay the bills this month. As you grow and gain privileges in life you also take on many more responsibilities. I think this is the part they were talking about they longed for the days of less responsibilities and the consequence of losing some privileges was well worth it.
As Andrew and I walked through the halls on Wednesday night We breathed in that certain smell and heard our feet echoing in the halls as only school halls can echo, I looked at him and said I am soooo glad I'm not starting school again. I hope you find yourself content in the place you are whatever that may be. You may be dwelling in this place sort of temporarily or living more permanently but whatever the case enjoy the time you have in the place you are.
HMMM how did I end up here? I think this is the point you sometimes push the back space and cut it back to what you were planning to write in the beginning, but this time I'm leaving it all. Here's some pictures of all the things I've talked about.
Oh and if you think of it on Monday say a little prayer for all of us mother's of brand new Kindergartners! Please! =)

Vacation '08

2008-08-11T23:57:00.005-05:00

Summer Vacation, You look forward to it almost all year and then it just seems to fly by. Thankfully you can relive the memories for many years to come!
We didn't have a whole lot planned which allowed us to relax and do just as we pleased! We went to see The Wiggles Live, to Six Flags a few times, to see the Ringling Bros. Circus, and to Medieval Times. Mom and Dad Elms came through for a day and we went to Incredible Pizza and spent the day together however my camera was dead and I didn't get any pictures so hopefully she'll post some of them that she took! There were many other things sprinkled in but those were the major events of the week. We went to America's Incredible Pizza, and Chuck E. Cheese. We played Sorry and Alayna got to take a few midnight dips in the pool after all the guest were asleep! I hope you all enjoy the pictures!
I also hope that if you weren't able to take a trip somewhere this summer that you will set aside a day or so and have a vacation at home. Go to the store and buy all that vacation junk food, and turn off the phones and computers and just do family things that you don't normally make the time for! Enjoy your loved one while you have the chance. You just never know when they might up and move away! LOL

This is a very long slide show it's not for the faint of heart! Just watch as much as you can and maybe come back later and finish! I hope you enjoy this Aunt Kathy!

Having Fun in "Big D"

2008-08-07T23:38:00.002-05:00

Well, I am still alive and well. I have been doing other things during the time I would usually blog! I have some pictures of the happenings over the last little while, but I have to do that on my computer and it doesn't have wireless connection. SOOO I am just saying Hi and I will post something a little more interesting soon!

I also want to say Happy Anniversary to my sweet husband! It has been a wonderful 9 years and I look forward to many more! At different times in our life when we have had to go through things I have always been so glad to know that no matter what I had this wonderful man to go through it with! I love you babe and I had a wonderful time playing video games with you on our anniversary!!! LOL Love ya!

Family...Love...Laughter...Jambalaya and a crawfish pie and file' gumbo ...

2008-06-08T14:13:00.006-05:00

Hello Everyone!!! I have wanted to post many things since Mother's Day but I just couldn't get me the computer and energy in the same place at the same time! Can I get a witness???

I guess being at home for a little over two weeks (the longest visit we've had since being married)really makes you appreciate your roots. I LOVE my family! I am prepared to list just a few reasons why.

1. You can be yourself 100%! No matter what mood you're in, or not in, you can just be you and not worry about what others are thinking, or how they are perceiving you! I guess the best way to say it is Safety! You feel so safe among those who "KNOW" you!

2. You have the right to your opinion! As children growing up we were allowed for the most part to have an opinion. I remember sitting around the table eating dinner and an idea or someones opinion would be discussed! There are many strong personalities in our family but we all learned how to be able to express the way you feel and perhaps attack an idea without touching the person who proposed it! I Love This! My dad at different times would hear our thoughts on many topics from the Bible to the cars and sometimes he would see it our way, but sometimes he said this is the way it is and it's because "I Said So". Believe me My parents had no problem with authority! But they were "Big" enough to listen to the way we saw it and help us understand differently or sometime change the way they saw it. Still to this day we will talk about things and disagree but not put each other down for differences of opinion!

3. Love! There are lots and lots of hugs and kisses!!!! I still kiss My parents and brothers and I hope that closeness never ever fades! I know that the love we share is something special! There is nothing I wouldn't do for them if it was within my power to help them! I feel just as strongly that they would do anything for me. I would feel completely comfortable asking them for any sort of help if I needed it and I am sure they feel the same. I am sooooo happy to know that I will have them to walk through life with! The bond of love is stronger than any other!

4. Laugh at yourself! One of the most beautiful things I've ever learned is to LAUGH at me! I have done some really funny things as have all of you! Laughter is like the bubble wrap that keeps the fragile things in our life from breaking! Through many difficult situations I've found peace and comfort by possessing the gift of laughter!!! Just during this trip I had a teaching moment with Alayna helping her to learn to laugh at herself. We were all sitting at the breakfast table and someone said something about itching and Alayna spoke up and said Lice itches. It caught all of us so off guard we all cracked up. She tucked her head and didn't know quite how to respond to such an outburst. I explained it to her and helped her laugh at her random comment. I think one of the funniest things is when someone stubs a toe, it's not funny but somehow I always manage to get tickled, even when it's my own toe. I get so mad and it hurts so bad but I just get tickled! Please if you haven't had anyone teach you to laugh at yourself start today learning and mastering the art!

5.Sharing memories, I love going back and reliving some wonderful things in life with my family! Just in the last few day we found ourselves all in the living room going back. Wow, all the days in the past hold some of the most dear treasures you possess and who better to enjoy them with than the ones who helped to make them! And if your like us some of the details get blurred and so there is usually at least 2 versions of each story. This makes for a lot more laughs as we try to sort it all out!

6. I love the "I'm for you and you're for me spirit" I find among family! I know they always have my best interest at heart, even when they don't agree with me or shed light in a different direction concerning things I may be facing! My family is not a place for wimps and I love that. Iron sharpens iron that what I feel like I gain from being a part of such strong people! They will not tickle your ears. If your wrong they will tell you and probably pretty forcefully and more than once and usually as many times as you need til you get it! I believe that's why all of us live for God and Want more than anything to do His will! We have always had parents that didn't take our "feelings" into consideration when it came to the things of God! I love them for that! I am a stronger person because of this!

7. As previously stated we love to laugh, however there was always a balance! Thanks in large part to Mom, I probably can't count the number of time she said that we were all "Full of Foolishness". This has become a joke in itself but I do know that Mom and Dad were and are the perfect match for each other providing the right balance of seriousness and laughter. Which is more laughter than seriousness ..JK There I go again!

8. Growing! A healthy family grows and continues all the wonderful things in the new generations. I love to watch the little ones picking up the the things I have already talked about and carrying them on. They love each other and stick up for one another and yes disagree, agreeably I must say! I watched many time as they made each other laugh and shared things and supported one another when trying new things! The beauty of growth is priceless. Many times I find myself searching my mind trying to remember how my parents taught me certain things. I know they did because I have such strong convictions in many areas of my life, but I can't remember when or how they put it in there. I am learning that the way you do or don't do things is huge to little ones! I pray often that God will help me to somehow impart all of the things that were given so carefully to me, to them!

I know this a long post and I suppose it was mostly just an opportunity for me to put all of this in writing while it was so fresh in my mind. I know you all feel alot the same about your families maybe in different ways but hopefully you will take some time and reflect on all the good things in your life! One of my favorite statements that I heard someone say is "You get two chances in life at a great family relationship. The one with the family you were born to and the one you make with your spouse and children." Maybe the first wasn't the best but you do have control over the second. Do everything in your power to make everyday a joy! Find a role model or read some good books, life is so short and family is one of the few things that really matter!!!

SlideShow Details

-We were able to go to Cameron's Track and Field day at School. He signed up in two races and won 1st and 2nd place! He's pretty fast!

-Andrew found a set of real golf clubs for little girls! He couldn't resist! I will have to get some better photos later. The are pink and purple. Really cute!

-It is sort of a tradition if we are at Dad and Mom's house for very long to make our way to Steamboat Bills to get some boiled crawfish. Since our visit was a bit long we did get the opportunity this time. Several of us get the crawfish and you just can't help have "FUN" eating them! I hope you enjoy the pictures.

-The morning we were leaving Dad wanted to fly a kite! He had bought 3 or 4 old-fashioned paper kites at an old store somewhere. I had never seen one, it really did fly good! Then there were the last four-wheeler rides. Ashlyn loves to ride with Uncle Michael! Cameron always give the smaller ones lots of ride! There's just something about country living. On their last lap they found a bird's nest hopefully free of birds I didn't ask, It was really neat.

-Heading home Goodbye's always come too soon no matter how long the visit!

- I did take more pictures but I took them with my Mom's camera so I'll get them from her at Camp Meeting, hopefully!

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-10T23:55:00.005-05:00

I wanted to take just a minute tonight to salute my the Mothers in my life! One of whom I was born to and the other was just so excited to receive me! I am thankful for the Godly ladies both of them have been all through the years! In the face of adversity they simply smile and keep going, through some of the most lonely valleys I have watched them walk ever so gracefully! I am truly thankful I have such wonderful ladies in my life! I admire them both! I hope I can embrace all of the wonderful characteristics they each possess. I love and deeply admire both of you!

Love, Mandy

Men's Conference

2008-05-03T12:32:00.004-05:00

We had a wonderful time at Men's Conference this year!!! My Mom and I took the girls to the zoo on Friday! We had a really good time. The zoo is small but it was actually perfect, it's tends to be warm here so it was just large enough to get to enjoy some animals and small enough to allow us to survive the heat! There largest population at the zoo goes hands down to the peahocks as Alayna refers to them! (Peacocks)We couldn't believe ow many of them had there feathers spread I think we saw 5 together at one time in full bloom! LOL Here's a few pictures enjoy!

Busy Busy Busy

2008-04-21T16:13:00.004-05:00

As has everyone else we have been a bit busy! I am not forsaking the blogging community just trying to keep up with life! I will hopefully be posting some of the happenings lately! We were able to do a little visiting at Grammy & Poppy's house before District Conference. We had a nice time just wasn't long enough. Alayna had several tea partys, learned how to play a new song on the piano, and rode her horse. I took some pictures but they were with my Mom's camera so I don't have them. Ashlyn enjoyed all the extra attention. I will try to post more later! Love to all!

2008-03-24T15:21:00.003-05:00

We had such a nice Easter! The girls braved the cold and were handsomely rewarded with sooooooo many eggs! We didn't get a really good picture of the girls Ashlyn tends to be a bit difficult for the camera. I will try to get some others later!

p.s. Yes I made the dresses.

Another Catch Up

2008-03-24T14:01:00.008-05:00

Well I have several things to blog about so here we go again.

-A couple of Saturdays ago Alayna and I went to the library for a Dr. Suess Birthday Party! It was a neat time. They had several different activities centered around Dr. Suess. Alayna made a hat like Cat in the hat's, she played a few games and won some prizes, got a free book and won a door prize. They gave you a ticket when you arrived and we were one of the last ones to get there so I really didn't think she'd win. They called several numbers of children who had left already and then they called hers. We were so shocked, she was very excited to get a stuffed Yurtle the Turtle.

Making her Cat in the Hat, hat

All done! Nice hat!

Playing the Green Eggs and Ham Game.

Spin the wheel and win a prize!

Door prize winner! Yurtle the Turtle.

Happy Birthday Dr. Suess

-I think Alayna wants to be a Botanist, someone who studies plants. She help Grandma and Grandpop plant some flowers last year, and really really enjoyed it. So as soon as she saw flowers on the yard she wanted to pick and plant them in her little pots. She told me the other day that when Dad got home she wanted to ask him if the back yard could be her garden. Who knows maybe we'll be eating fresh vegetables this year...LOL

Alayna the Botanist. She really did this all by herself.

And now for the water!

The purple one actually lived until the torrential rains came and blasted them from the little pot.

-For those of you who aren't privileged to parent daughters, here's a bit of information you might not know. They follow you everywhere and get into everything that you are doing or trying to do. Can I get a witness??? Mom Elms tells of a time she was taking care a Danelle for Aunt Ronda and she couldn't believe how much more of her time she consumed than the boys did. Case in point, I was attempting to clean my refrigerator the other day and Ashlyn insisted on being very involved. I couldn't help but get tickled and grab my camera and she made herself quite comfortable. With her sippie cup in hand she planted herself right in the door of the refrigerator. Now when you have the door open and she's near she tries to reclaim her space.

I was forced out of the way so she could sit.

Like a Queen on her Throne!!!

Did I accidentally get on Mom's way???

This is a picture of success!

-As most of you know Alayna went for a visit to see Uncle Gene and Aunt Karla. One of the funny things that happened took place during bedtime prayers, Sharon wrote this out for me so I'll just retype what she wrote. " It was Saturday night and she was a little nervous about going to bed. Anyway, we were in bed and we had already said out prayers when all of the sudden she said Oh God help me to have good dreams, then Aunt Sharon did you know that if you don't tell your good dreams, they come true? I said really. Then she said Oh, God help me to tell my bad dreams. I knew where we were going with this so I said Alayna, bad dreams don't come true, only the good ones. All of the sudden she said, Oh, God never mind, I didn't know that, Aunt Sharon just said that bad dreams don't come true. I nearly died. It was so funny and she was so sincere." For her homecoming celebration her daddy made her a welcome home sign and we blew up several balloons to put in her room. We were really glad to have her back.

Thank you Aunt Sharon and Alayna for the gifts from abroad!

Wow! that's a lot of balloons!

Welcome Home Alayna!!!

-Okay we are all caught up again except for Easter and because I have so many pictures I will do a separate post so ta ta for now!

Tagged...Favorite things about Spring

2008-03-22T13:42:00.003-05:00

Thank you Michelle. I know some of these have already been stated but there's only so much about spring...

1. I love the true spring weather. Nice. a little warm and yet still cool enough to be quite pleasant.

2. I love the fact that the cold is over. Don't get me wrong I enjoy winter, but there comes a point when it enough already.

3. I enjoy seeing everything come to life. The grass the flowers and trees. It just feels new. You now maybe the year should start in March instead of January. JK

4 I enjoy opening the windows and doors, I don't do it so much now because of my little one who tries to escape.

There all done now. I will tag Sis. Prince, Karla, and Mom. I don't know if you've been tagged or not but I didn't see that it said no tag-backs so your tagged. lol

We Miss You!

2008-03-16T11:48:00.002-05:00

Alayna is out of town visiting Uncle Gene and Aunt Karla, and boy do we miss her! The house is somewhat quiet, and I feel a little empty in the pit of my stomach. I missed her more yesterday than when we have left the girls and gone somewhere. I am sure it's because we're home in the normal routine of things and she's missing. Last night while cooking supper I had to stop myself from really crying, a few tears did manage to escape however. So if you all were wondering if Alayna could stay longer, the answer is NO! I have not allowed myself to call every time I wanted to, only when I felt I had a really good excuse. I know ya'll are having a good time and I am really happy she got to visit. I just miss her a little......a lot.

I am home again unable to go to church because Ashlyn is running fever again. She woke up this morning and I was about to start the Sunday morning routine of getting ready and I realized she had fever. So that stopped all that! I really hope she's better soon, I hate seeing her sick. Have a great Sunday, and a Happy St Patrick's Day tomorrow!

Happy Birthday!

2008-03-03T12:57:00.004-06:00

No, I didn't accidentally re-post the last one, today is a birthday for another very special man in my life! Wow it sounds a little weird thinking of him as a man, but I guess 34 qualifies for a man. It is amazing how as the years fly by you still think of your siblings and yourself as kids. On all other counts he is definitely a man! He has always been an incredible provider for his family making sure all their needs are met and then some! His walk with God is definitely that of a mature man! I must say this is the quality I most admire in my older brother! He has set the bar high in living for God! I remember somewhere around 15 or 16 that he made a commitment to God to pray daily, and not just for 5 or 10 minutes! He would head to the church during the day sometime and pray! At family gatherings when we are all together for the whole day I've noticed he'll still gather his family and they'll slip away somewhere for a time of prayer. The man just don't miss a day! I love you for this you are an inspiration to me! As for your preaching it just don't hardly get any better! I know this is a direct result of the previous. You are so much fun, I love being with you and laughing at the stupidest things. I know other people either pity or envy us, I guess I don't really care which. I love the relationship I have with you being able to speak freely and still have a deep unchanging love for each other! I do hope I can be all that I feel like you are in life! I love you and I am sooooo glad you are my "BIG" brother in all the ways you are! I am thankful to know I'll have you with me through the rest of life whatever it brings I know as a family we will be okay! Michael you are one of my heroes!

Love Always & Happy Birthday,

Mandy

Happy Birthday!!!

2008-03-02T15:33:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to give a huge Birthday shout out to Dad Elms!!! What a wonderful picture of a man after God's own heart! It has been a privilege of mine to be welcomed into the heart and Elms' Family. They are just as precious from the inside of the family as the out. Dad, I hope you have a nice day surrounded by the people who love and esteem you greatly (Life Tabernacle family). You have been a blessing in my life I thank you for the time and love you've invested! Happy Happy birthday from all of us to you!!!!

Change...

2008-02-29T19:30:00.004-06:00

Change is good or so they say! I am not the best to deal with it I must admit! Buying a new car for instance really bothers me! I wonder what will become of the old one, who will get it, will they take care of it as I have, and will I be as happy with the new one as I was with the old? New things un-nerve me just a bit. However these new things I wish to post about I am okay with.

Ashlyn has a new hair do and I LOVE IT!!! I always get so excited when their hair get long enough to put into pig tails! I think she looks adorable! I couldn't get a really good picture because she is not in one place very long at all.

Alayna has a new look as well! NO bottom front teeth! I can't believe she's lost another already! I hope the tooth fairy has another loss budgeted!!! I think I forgot to tell you all about the last time when the tooth fair;y had not made by about 5 am when Alayna awoke! She never gets up until after Andrew had gone to the church but this day "something" woke her. (The great anticipation of that 1st lost tooth and all the worry of what the Tooth Fairy might bring) Well the tooth fairy can't wait til Dad goes to the church in the morning this time we'll have to figure something else out!!!

I have also included some pictures of Alayna on the trampoline she had a blast outside today the hair and the dirty face are my proof!!! Hope you all have a nice weekend!

Disciplining your children!!!

2008-02-26T12:06:00.004-06:00

Tough love, vs. spanking Most of America's population thinks it's improper to spank children,So I tried other methods to control my kids, when they had one of 'those moments.' One that I found effective is for me to just take the child for a car ride, and talk. They usually calm down and stop misbehaving after our car ride together. I've included a photo below of one of my sessions with my son, in case you would like to use the technique. This probably will work with grandchildren, also.

Thanks Aunt Sharon for the parenting tips!!!

Catching up!!!

2008-02-19T12:07:00.010-06:00

I've had too many things going to keep up with my blog as well. So here is a post of all the things I wanted to post about and just haven't got around to yet.

-The Children's Revival was absolutely wonderful! Alayna and Ashlyn both enjoyed all the services. I know it really makes an impression on the hearts and memories of these kids to think that their church would stop everything else and have a Revival just for them! Thank you Pastor! Alayna was surprised when she got to church on Friday night and Sis. Carmen asked her help sing in the praise group. They had chosen these things when we were out of town the week before, but someone had gotten sick and so she was allowed to fill in. She really really enjoyed it! It's amazing how much like the "grown-ups" they did it. Bro. Joseph had some of the children taking up the offering and Alayna really wanted to help do that too, but I explained to her that there were so many children that everyone only got to do one thing. Then on Sunday she was asked to help with the offering. I told her that she had a good attitude about things and that God had blessed her allowing her to do both. She was really pleased about this and talked of it for several days. It really does something to a parent's heart to hear their children speaking of being blessed by God.

-We were out of town the first part of the week after the children's revival for Youth Committee meetings. We were able to spend some time with Stephanie and Landon while the men met. Alayna and Landon rode the Merry-Go-Round at Grapevine Mills Mall! They had a really nice time together. We missed you Cameron, but that's what you get for growing up and going to school. That's why Aunt Mandy tells you all to stop growing up!!!! As you will see we have some aspiring ballroom dancers on our hands. LOL.

-Next on the schedule was a Valentines Banquet. We had a wonderful time! I only have a few pictures because I was having too much fun to mess with a camera. We played the donut game, the newly wed game, and then we had an auction. It was sooooo much fun. Sis Christina bought some gag gifts and I went and asked the local businesses for donations and then we put each item in a brown paper sack. Bro Todd auctioned them off to the highest bidder. The currency was also provided each one got $480 play money with which to bid. Needless to say it was a blast, everyone loves an auction and how much more so when you aren't spending your own money. We had things rangeing from a meal for two at the Cotton Patch to Bubba teeth. Sis Christina also put more money in a few of the bags which meant whoever won that bid got to keep playing. Thank you to all who helped plan, cook, and clean at this event it was a great success!!!

-Happy Valentines day by the way! My Valentine was not feeling well this day so we just spent a nice day at home. Since we are on the Dave Ramsey budget we decided to buy cards for each other. We had a nice day and I do look forward to spending many more with the love of my life!!!! The girls had Valentines early with Grammy and Poppy when they were here, and they got a little something from us.

-Alayna had a solo in the kids choir so I've posted a video of that, and Ashlyn ate her spaghetti all by herself! There's a video and a few pics of that as well. It was a very funny site to see! Look at that now I'm all caught up! I don't know if anyone will actually make it to this point in my post but if you do please add "Dill Pickle" to the end of your comment. Don't explain just type it at the end it'll be our little joke! I hope all of you have a grand week and enjoy the time you have with the special people in your life!!!

Our Little Princess is Turning One!!!

2008-01-31T21:20:00.000-06:00

Well we all finally managed to get in one place and celebrate Ashlyn's 1st Birthday! We had a wonderful time enjoying another of life's milestones! I hope you enjoy the pictures only half as much as Ashlyn did eating her very own birthday cake!

I Lost My First Tooth!!!!

2008-01-25T13:23:00.000-06:00

Wednesday Night after church Alayna lost her first tooth! She was sooooooo excited! I have never seen anyone this excited about losing a tooth! She did tell us that she hopes her top teeth are next! LOL I was not expecting this because kids aren't supposed to lose their teeth until Kindergarten I was a little sad when we first found the loose tooth but I guess I'm okay now after all she will start school in the fall.

Financial Peace

2008-01-23T13:28:00.000-06:00

We are going the course Financial Peace University by Dave Ramsey! By the way we are really enjoying it. Well this is just the lead in to my story. Alayna and I were at the store last night before our class, I was just picking up some baby food and a couple of other things. As we made our way down one of the aisles she looked at me and said "I thought ya'll were saving money not spending it." I was taken aback I explained to her these were things we had to have and we still had to spend some money to live. Once we got to the register she looked and the cashier and said "Can you tell we're saving money?" I quickly got her out the door! Oh well we had a good laugh and a little reminder!!! Hope your day is going great and you save some money today!!!

Guess What???

2008-01-23T00:34:00.000-06:00

I have a new Joke -

What did one snowman say to the other snowman????

It smells like carrots!!!

Finally!!!

2008-01-18T12:46:00.000-06:00

We had Ashlyn's 1st Birthday pictures made as well as some of Alayna and them together! I hope you enjoy seeing them!

Happy Birthday "Baby"

2008-01-09T23:16:00.000-06:00

Wow, how time flies! Ashlyn I can't believe we've had you for a year already! You are a joy! I am so proud of all your little accomplishments, rolling over, crawling, walking, getting teeth, to mention just a few! I am looking forward to another fun filled year! We love you and wish you the Happiest Birthday!!!

Happy New Year!

2007-12-31T22:19:00.000-06:00

I pray that all of you will be blessed more than you can imagine in this year to come! Perhaps not monetarily but with many unsaved family and friends coming into the church this year! I believe the Lord is soon to come, and if we are to see the promises we've all been given come to pass it may very well have to happen in this year! I am looking forward to this year! God Bless and Happy New Year!!!!

No Pictures =(

2007-12-26T15:00:00.000-06:00

I forgot my cord at home that connects my camera to my computer, thus, NO Pictures. We have had a wonderful Christmas with lots of surprises! All of us kids had asked for money so Mom had many surprising ways to give it! She put some ones in wet wipe containers rolled up very very very tightly! Stuffed piggy banks full full full of one dollar bills! She wrapped sumo wrestlers in money and small storage containers lined with bills! We had so much fun laughing crying and enjoying time together! And the surprises continued with aunt Kathy arriving at 1:30 IN THE MORNING on Christmas, well technically the day after Christmas. Anyway Grandmom was very surprised to see her and we all did well keeping the secret! I love you all and pray you had just as wonderful a time with all your families!!!

Merry Christmas!!!!

2007-12-20T03:03:00.001-06:00

Well our Christmas celebration is almost underway! I have stayed up well past my bedtime..LOL to finish up a load of clothes. We are planning to leave in the morning to go to be with my family for the holidays! I wish all of you and yours a Merry Christmas! I really want to try and blog while I'm away, it seems if I don't keep up with it then I lose my momentum when I get home and try to play catch up! I just get too involved in all the festivities and forget to take time to blog! I hope you all have a wonderful time with your family and friends. Laugh a lot and make memories that you will enjoy for many years to come! We wait all year long for this special time with family so relax....slow down....and enjoy it!!! We all know it will over too soon anyway! So once again MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!
Here's a little trivia for you to enjoy over the Christmas Holidays!
Don't cheat, the answers are at the bottom!

Figure out the Christmas Carol title from the clue.

1. Not here in an animal’s dish
2. Smack the Passageways
3. Move and speak towards the elevated plains
4. Yahweh sleep you happy dudes
5. Hey! The #1 angelic beings belt it out.
6. It showed up on a cloudless 12 at night
7. Shaking Chimes
8. Happiness to the planet
9. 12-25 shrubbery song
10. Get here if you’re reliable
11. Like a strainer + time when the sun is down
12. Small city of Christ’s birth song (O’ Little Town of Bethlehem)
13. Quiet non-day
14. The premier not 12th letter of the alphabet
15. XII 24hrs. of 12-25
16. Not down on the roof of the home
17. Us Trio that’s royalty from China (exist)
18. Us dream not us a happy December 25th
19. Spill the 411 on the baby
20. Small percussionist lad
21. Tim Allen’s movie character will appear in a hood
22. Song about a hoofed animal with a crimson schnozola
23. Chilled the crystallized H20 male
24. Don’t stop the winter precipitation
25. Traversing in a 4th season amazing country

ANSWERS to Christmas Carol Quiz

1. Away in a Manger
2. Deck the Halls
3. Go Tell It on the Mountain
4. God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman
5. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
6. It Came Upon a Midnight Clear
7. Jingle Bells
8. Joy to the World
9. O’ Christmas Tree
10. O’ Come all Ye Faithful
11. O’ Holy Night
12. O’ Little Town of Bethlehem
13. Silent Night
14. The First Noel
15. The 12 Days of Christmas
16. Up on the Housetop
17. We 3 Kings of Orient (Are)
18. We Wish You a Merry Christmas
19. What Child is This?
20. Little Drummer Boy
21. Santa Claus is Coming to Town
22. Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer
23. Frosty the Snowman
24. Let it Snow
25. Walking in a Winter Wonderland

"Happy Birthday Jesus"

2007-12-10T16:59:00.001-06:00

Last night was the Christmas Concert at our church! It was a wonderful time of singing and worship. The highlight of the evening for me was to hear my little girl sing her first ever solo! I know I am a bit prejudice but she did awesome! She has worked really hard on it to get it just perfect, and I think it was just that...PERFECT!!! I hope you enjoy this video. The quality is not as good as I'd hoped it would be but you can get a really good idea of how it was.

Making a list and checking it twice......

2007-12-07T02:13:00.000-06:00

I am almost finished!!!! I have about 5 or 6 gifts left to buy and it will be all over but the giving!!! Which happens to be my favorite part! I need to find a couple of gifts with the "wow" factor I always love those ones you know they really really want or the really good deal or the one they would never in a million years guess!!! I love this time of year it brings me great joy to give to others, and it makes me ponder what great joy God must have in giving to us as He does!!! MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

What do you want for Christmas???

2007-12-05T21:37:00.000-06:00

This is an ever popular question to be asked and to ask during this season. Follow the traditions I asked Alayna what she wanted for Christmas. She looked thought for a minute or two and then said very sincerely, "Mom look in my room and see what I don't have enough of." Well what do you say to that?

Sorry I haven't blogged in a while I have had some technical difficulties and a whole lot of other things going on. Enjoy your holiday season!!!

2007-11-10T19:40:00.000-06:00

I am sitting here in the lobby of the hotel surrounded by a family of people I think. They must have all come in for a reunion or something. Anyway they are having a good time. I do keep getting a glance every now and then I think a tear or two has slipped from my eye, as I read Mom's blog. I really didn't intend to blog myself just look at hers but I feel somehow strangely connected to you all as I sit here. So thus the post. Andrew will preach both services tomorrow so keep him in your prayers. I will also have my Aunt and cousin in service with me tomorrow so I am praying that God will bless them extra special! Keep us in your prayers as well as Mom. I think the girls are sick she's not really telling me all of it I don't think but I do know they aren't well. (Thanks again Mom) I love you all and pray you have an awesome weekend!!!

Wonderful Weekend!!!

2007-11-04T23:02:00.000-06:00

Well Mom (Sis Elms) was away this weekend so I thought I would fill you all in on the weekend! IT WAS AWESOME!!! We had 27 visitors in Morning worship. My Husband did an awesome job bringing us the word both Sunday Morning and Sunday Night! I feel like I have something to feast on this week that will help be a better child of God! I hope all you had wonderful weekend as well! I know this isn't as thorough as Sis Elms get it but it's an attempt! =) Love to all!!

Lifesavers

2007-11-03T00:03:00.000-05:00

Alayna is now officially a part of Lifesavers (Kid's Church for those of you non-Life Tabernacle Folks). She was so excited to go Wednesday night. Before church we were talking about it and she said Mom, do you remember last time when Papa was preaching and he said what is that? (They can sometimes be overheard in the auditorium.) I said that I remembered and that was pretty much all there was to it til after Lifesavers then she wanted to know if we had heard them! It's funny the things that matter to children! Thank you to all who work so hard to make Church a wonderful place for our children!!!

Happy Halloween!!!

2007-11-01T01:04:00.000-05:00

Last night we had our annual "Kid's Fun Fest" at the church and it was a smashing success! I think we had the best turn out ever! Sis Linda and all her help did an incredible job! Thank you all for supplying our family with a wonderful evening! This year we had another addition to our Halloween Ashlyn made an adorable little "Punkin" if I must say so myself! Alayna was a cute clown as well! I hope you all had a great Halloween and enjoy these pictures! I added some from the two previous years since I wasn't a blogger at the time! Hope you don't mind!

2007-10-17T22:20:00.000-05:00

Day - 3

We went to Disney's MGM Studios. The previous day Alayna had started to collect pins. (Thank you Bro. Curtis and Sis. Julie) It really turned out to be a whole lot of fun for Alayna as well as her parents. That being said, when we entered the park on Tuesday Alayna found the first available person with which she could trade. She approached the lady and began to look over her pins. After the trade was made the lady asked us if we were there to enjoy the park or just to eat. We told her we were there for the day she opened a lane for us to go through and we thought that's all she was there for just coming to open another lane, Andrew, me and Alayna hurried on through the gate looking for more pins, my parents lingered behind and the lady informed them that we had been chosen as "Family of the Hour". When they finally caught us and told us we were so excited. We were entitled to pick any ride or show and just go in at the front of the line. Alayna chose "The Little Mermaid". This really started our day off right!
Alayna rode the Tower of Terror and didn't cry at all. She did inform us she didn't think she should do it again until she was 15 or 16 though. We had a great time in MGM, however in our ratings of the Disney parks it did come in last place. The show at night was great!!! Their parade was totally cool it was done on the water and all the characters were on boats. They also sprayed a wall of water up and had images projected on it. Only at Disney can you see such a production! Now we race home and sleep and Get ready for the Animal Kingdom!

Day 2 -The Magic Kingdom

2007-10-11T22:40:00.000-05:00

Well today is the big day!!! We have saved and planned and saved and planned and saved and planned...for this day for almost a year now! I can't believe it's finally here!!!! We had to ride the Monorail to get the park, as does everyone else, and when we could see the castle from the window you could feel our excitement in the air! This is the day I told you about earlier. In case someone reading this didn't see that post I'll repeat it. It's too cute for anyone to miss. As we walked down the main street, Mary Poppins and Bert were strolling along with some of the other characters and the castle is standing in the distance, I wish I could portray the feeling in words. Alayna looked up at me and said "Mom all my dreams did come true!" This is pricele$$. Only a parent knows the feeling of sheer joy in their child's face and it was all over her! We had scheduled a breakfast in the Crystal Palace due to a recommendation from Curtis and Julie. We ate a delicious meal while Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore and Piglet came around to our table and visited with us! It was a great way to start the trip! After breakfast we rode rides and watched shows and had an absolute blast!

Our Family Vacation 2007

2007-10-11T21:39:00.000-05:00

I don't know exaclty how to do this since I have sooooo many pictures. I think I have decided to do it by days so here goes...

Day 1 Arriving in Orlando and Playing Golf - We arrived in Orlando on Sunday, September 30. We rented a 3 bedroom house for the week. It had a private swimming pool and hot tub, it was wonderful. The guys had a golf game planned for that afternoon so we went to the house and unloaded the vehicles and they headed for Disney Magnolia Course. Mom and I went to Wal-mart to get what we would need for the week. Andrew and Dad had a great time, Andrew shot a 93, dad didn't keep his score. They said there were lots of deer, and the course was beautiful and challenging. We all ate snadwiches for supper and got in bed early after a short swim in the pool.

HAPPY HAPPY "belated" BIRTHDAY To some very special people!!!

2007-10-11T21:12:00.001-05:00

Well I hate that I have waited until today to wish these special people a Happy Birthday but it's better late than never!!!

-To my wonderful husband, You are the most incredible person I know. I am so happy to call you MY husband. I can't imagine my life without you in it. Many times I have thanked God for you! You are the PERFECT mate for me and I can never really express how wonderful you are, but I'll still keep trying. I can honestly say I look forward to a lifetime with you!!! I love you now and always, I hope you had a wonderful day and an even greater year to come! And by the way "30" sure does look good on you!!!

-To Alayna our little princess, Dad said today as we looked at you over lunch, "Can you believe we've had her for 5 years?" My reply was NO. You are a wonderful little girl. You have always been a very obedient, polite little girl. you make us so very proud. I know God smiled on us when he blessed our lives with you! I know God has very big plans for your life. We will so enjoy watching it all unfold. We wish you the very happiest birthday you've had yet! We Love You!!!

-To Aunt Kathy, My wonderful, far away, Aunt. I love you dearly. You are such a beautiful lady both inside and out. Life has dealt you some twist but you have always handled with grace. I love you and I have always admired you. My only regret in our relationship has been the many miles that have always been between us. Maybe in the future we will be allowed to be in closer proximity. Sorry this birthday wish is a few days late, I hope it only helps to extend the celebration of another wonderful year! We love you!

On our way home!

2007-10-07T19:29:00.000-05:00

We are on the way home. It will take us a few days to make the trip, but we are heading in the right direction. We have an absolutely wonderful trip and I can't wait to share it with you all. Alayna was enchanted with everything and Ashlyn loved everything and everyone!!! She would laugh, squeal and clap every time we saw a character! The first day as we walked up the main street in the Magic Kingdom Alayna looked up at me and said Mom all my dreams did come true!!! I have a million pictures I will share later when I can actually blog on a computer and not a phone. Love you all and we can't wait to get home!!!

Having Fun Pictures to follow!

2007-09-27T23:52:00.000-05:00

We are having fun. Today we went to the Elm's family luncheon. It started at 1:30 and I think we left around 5:30 It was some kind of lunch....Elm's style. LOL Mom you'll be glad to know that Dad kept his seat all the way to the end!! LOL I have pictures from today and some from the beach I will try to post them tomorrow! We miss all of those who didn't come this year. Love you all!!!

We are finally here!!!

2007-09-26T14:02:00.000-05:00

We are here! in Tampa,Fl. We got here last night around midnight. We are on our way to the beach right now, I am doing this on my
mom's iPhone, I really love this thing it makes me want one now!!!'

Laughter Doeth Good Like A Medicine!

2007-09-21T22:42:00.000-05:00

Did you hear about the blonde who got a camera for her birthday?
-She just picked up her first roll of developed film-twenty-four pictures of her right eye.

Here's one for all you dieters.
What did Hamlet say at the weight watchers meeting?
-Tubby or not Tubby?

Did you hear about the man who ate yeast and shoe polish every night before he went to bed?
-Every morning he would Rise and Shine!!!

How do you make anti-freeze?
-Take away her jacket.

What do you call a hippie's wife?
-Mississippi.

I hope you made it all the way to this point in my post because that means you read all my jokes. I thought they were funny and I hope you can tell one at least and make someone else laugh!!!

Ashlyn's Accomplishments & Alayna's Wit

2007-09-21T12:25:00.000-05:00

Ashlyn has cut tooth number three she got it last Sunday but we've been out of town so I couldn't share this yet. She also pulls up by herself and then she'll let go and stand for a few seconds. Alayna walked at 10 months and it doesn't look like Ashlyn is going to be very far behind her. I just can't believe how fast they grow she'll be walking and talking and having her birthday before we know what's happened! I am trying even more to enjoy every day because they do pass all too quickly!

Alayna, well I guess that kinda says a lot in itself. The other day I was kneeling in front of her with her little face cupped in my hands just kissing away. When I stopped she said something I can't remember for the life of me what it was but my response to her was "You're a Nerd!!!", She without hesitation looked at me and said "You like kissing nerds don't you!!!" What do you say well nothing because your laughing so hard! I usually have a come back but she got me!

Hope the rest of your week is great!!!

You've got to get up really early to get one over on this kid!

2007-09-15T23:13:00.000-05:00

Alayna was talking to Poppy on the phone on Grandparents Day. She wished him a Happy Grandparents Day, and his response was that she had made his day. She was a little confused at this statement, She said you mean I made the trees and the sky.....No he told her that she had made him very very happy. So a little later in the conversation she was teasing him with some jokes and he replied Oh that makes me so angry! To which Alayna quickly responded "Happy Grandparents Day!!!"

Happy Grandparent's Day! by Alayna & Ashlyn

2007-09-08T23:33:00.000-05:00

Papa and Mimi
Poppy and Grammy

We want to say Happy Grandparent's Day to the most Wonderful Grandparents in the world! We love Poppy because he ALWAYS has time to play with us! We love Grammy because she loves play-doh as much as all of us kids do. She also shares my love for the story of Beauty and the Beast! We love our Papa because he is so silly he always calls me Alayna Boy Elms. We love Mimi because she's very nice and we like her music at church! We have the best Grandparents in the whole wide world! We love them very very very very very much and wish them many more years to live and love!
P.S. Our Dad and Mom think they're pretty cool too!

Interesting Dinosaur Facts!!!

2007-09-08T01:35:00.000-05:00

Why don't Dinosaurs talk???

Because they're all dead!!! lol

Welcome!!!

2007-09-02T22:47:00.000-05:00

I just have to quickly share what Alayna did Saturday. She and I were playing with Ashlyn and somehow they ended up shaking hands which really shocked Alayna. After she realized what was going on she said, "Ashlyn Welcome to What a Tickle!" Then she looked at me and said "Mom what do we say at church?" "Welcome to Life Tabernacle" I said. "Oh yeah!" She said.

Ashlyn has learned to pull up she did so for the first time in Wednesday. I just can't believe how quickly they grow!!!

Giggling!!!

2007-08-29T14:32:00.000-05:00

Nothing is more contagious than a child's laughter!!!

Beautiful Baby

2007-08-17T17:52:00.000-05:00

These are Ashlyn's 6 month pictures. It's taken a little while to get them blogger friendly. A great big thank you to the wonderful photographer!

Huge Accomplishments

2007-08-16T00:53:00.000-05:00

Alayna had learned in Sunday School how to say the Ten Commandments! She has wonderful teachers who have totally taught her these wonderful laws of God. We havn't worked on these at home at all so the credit goes to dedicated teachers who love these children! Thank you all for all you do and the time you take to put the Word of God in the hearts of our kids!!!

Ashlyn has just learned to clap her hands! We are so proud of her and I guess she was proud of Alayna for saying those Ten Commandments and decided she better learn how to clap real quick to give her sister a hand! I didn't know she had done this at Mom and Dad Elms' house while we were out of town, so when Sis Holley clapped in church and Ashlyn copied her I was really shocked! Way to Go Ashlyn!

Row Row Row Your Boat

2007-08-11T09:27:00.000-05:00

Here are the wonderfully becoming pictures of all of us having the time of our lives White Water rafting!!!! You will no doubt be able to tell how much fun it was by the expressions on all the faces!

Having a blast!!!

2007-08-06T01:56:00.000-05:00

We left town Saturday and we made it to Jackson, TN. It was a long day,along the way we stopped by Graceland, though we weren't able to make the tour of his house before it closed we did get to see the Lisa Marie (His airplane)and see the house from a distance. We had a good time in the vans and made our destiny safe and sound! Today we traveled on to Pigeon Forge and went to the Comedy Barn! It was really funny I think everyone had a great time and laughed plenty!!! We did buy the video so we will share it later if possible??? After the show we went to Pizza Planet and played laser tag, rode go carts and yes played a few arcade games! I got high score on Mrs. PacMan. whew whew whew! Jessica, Shannon, Bro. Andrew, Kyle, Amber, Rachel, Jessie and Ian all rode a swing sort of thing that slung them up in the air really really high forward and backward in a huge circle. It was something to see!!! I got a few pics but its a little hard to at night when it's so far away! Most of them are of the scared participants before they got on the ride! Tomorrow we are going to the Wonder Works Museum, Alpine Slides and Dixie Stampede!!! I will try to share pictures and tales of that tomorrow night. Love you all and we are having a wonderful time thank you all for your support and helping us to finance this trip!!!

Got Teeth?

2007-07-31T12:10:00.000-05:00

I DO!!! Ashlyn cut her first tooth last night sometime between 9:00pm and 12:00am. I'm really not normally so particular about the time but I checked when I fed her 9:00 and NO TOOTH and then around 12:00am I felt again and there was a little break in the gum and I could feel a few little ridges scraping my finger! Well we are on our way only ?? How many more to go?

Water Day!!!

2007-07-28T00:58:00.000-05:00

Sadly enough Vacation Bible "SONFORCE KIDS" 2007 has come to an end. What a huge success this year has been! Thank you Bro Joseph and VBS Staff for all your hard work. I know the kids had a wonderful time! I have plenty of pictures to prove it! I can't imagine any better way to have ended the week than in a HUGE water fight! The pictures show how much fun the kids had. Thank you again Bro. Joseph for allowing them this opportunity! VBS 2007 was AWESOME!!!

Sonforce Kids

2007-07-28T00:15:00.000-05:00

These kids have been incredible all week! Today was Disguise Day and boy did they come in full disguise!

Vacation Bible is COOL!!!

2007-07-25T14:15:00.001-05:00

Today was Cool shades day. The kids were supposed to wear there coolest Sunshades! In the Craft class we mad Flubber, this was FUN FUN FUN! The kids really had a blast I tried to capture their expressions in these pictures but they really don't do it justice. The video is quite funny! I almost passed out while I was filming cause I got so tickled at Jonathon. Enjoy!

Every Move I Make!

2007-07-24T22:24:00.000-05:00

Alias

2007-07-24T21:27:00.000-05:00

Alayna strikes a pose!What a HAM!!!

Vacation Bible School goes Crazy!!!

2007-07-24T20:11:00.000-05:00

Today was crazy hair day! I think that pretty much explains it all! We are having a wonderful week. I really feel like the adults enjoy the time to fellowship and be with each other as much as the kids do. Well maybe that's just me...anyway I always enjoy working at the church with my wonderful family. I have grown closer to many of them because of the time we've spent together laughing and working (of course WORKING HARD Bro Joseph and only pausing for a second or two at most for a little chuckle). Enjoy these crazy pictures of OUR kids!

On the Lighter Side of Things

2007-07-22T23:59:00.000-05:00

What did one lady firefly say to the other lady firefly?
You Glow Girl, You Glow!

If you have 10 fish in an aquarium and 7 drown how many are left?

All of them, fish don't drown!

My Little Senoritas

2007-07-20T12:29:00.000-05:00

Just a quick little snapshot of the girls before church last Wednesday. I told Alayna she was my little Senorita. She was a little unsure about the "buns" on the side of her head but it ended up I had to wait to wait til right before bedtime before she'd let me take them down.

Alayna...

2007-07-16T10:07:00.000-05:00

This will be short and sweet no 100 picture slide shows or anything. lol Saturday evening Andrew was at the church preparing for Sunday and I was going to pray for a little bit. I had told Alayna of my plans and so she decided to pray with me. I was knelt at the chair and she was at the couch. As I began to pray I was saying "Lord, I thank you for the Holy Ghost, thank you for Calvary, for washing away all of my sins...." As soon as I got to this part I felt a little hand on my shoulder and she said "Come on Momma, Come on Momma!" she then bent her head over so she could see my face as I was praying. I got so tickled when I realized she was trying to pray me through to the Holy Ghost. It was sweet and a memory that will hopefully never fade in my mind.
I hope you all have a wonderful week and here's a lesson from Alayna stay FULL of the Holy Ghost!

Having Fun

2007-07-14T11:00:00.001-05:00

Here's some of the videos I took at Jump for Joy. I didn't have time to get them on the other post before we had to leave so here they are all by themselves.