Gone Country

I've finally decided to embrace the fact that I will
never be a graceful, southern lady.

I am, and always will be, a good ol' country girl stuck in the middle of DFW.
For the record, I am totally ok with it.
Seriously.

Who would want to give up these kinds of roots?

Beautiful.

 I'm sure you're all wondering what the differences between a southern lady and a country girl are.  Well, I'll tell ya from my backwoods-Okie-turned-city-girl perspective. 

1.  We both have accents, ours are a little less refined.

2.  Manners are important to both groups but country folk really don't see the need for more than one fork per meal.  Seriously, you just lick it clean between salad and the main course.  Am I right?

3.  Country women have no problem going out without make-up on.  I spent all day yesterday without make-up and it was glorious.

There are more but all this medication I'm on is keeping me from any sort of rational or funny thoughts.
(i have a sinus infection)
(and i'm whiny)
(and i love sweet tea)

My turn!!!!

1. When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A horse trainer/barrel racer and marine biologist.

2. Who influenced you the most when you were a child?

My cousin Justin.

We always got in to all kinds of trouble.

3. Who influences you the most now?

She totally doesn't know this but my boss's wife.

I don't see her in person often but, following her status updates

and blog posts, she really inspires me to be sold out for Jesus, love my husband more and teach my son to be a godly and selfless young man.

4. Describe yourself in three words or less.

Outgoing, caring and easily distracted.

5. Have you ever met someone famous?

I met the guys from the bands BBmak and Eve6.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Check out these two songs.

They are amazing.

It amazes me that the God of the universe would care enough about little ol' Amanda and David to put two wonderful and fitting songs in my path as my husband and I walk together through a tough patch.

The One who created the universe and everything in it is so merciful and sensitive to our needs as lowly sinners!!!

This is one of my new favorites. I found it through my friend, Denae, she actually knows this couple - I'm so glad she shared it with me!

If I had an iTunes account and the money to spend I'd buy every song this lady has on there!

This song was posted on Karren's blog yesterday. It's such a great reminder of how love, even during the tough times, is a gift from the Almighty God.

What am I doing?!!

My prayer this morning was that the Lord would convict me of any sin that I haven't yet confessed and repented of so that I may fellowship with Him once again.

You see, I've been so busy and wrapped up in what I have going on that I have forsaken my time with the Lord and my relationship with Him has been suffering.

I'm such the prodigal child.

I've often run my own way and only looked back once shaken by something that's beyond my ability to handle or control.

Thankfully the Lord brought me to a place of worship today that wasn't brought on by some sort of personal disaster - I sat at His feet and prayed. I sat and read His Word.

And it was GOOD.

He convicted me of so much today.

1 John 3:18 was His weapon of choice:

"Little children, we must not love in word or speech, but in deed and truth..."

That verse stuck in me like a thorn in my side.

It was something I knew I needed to meditate on today.

After my Quiet Time was over I headed out the door to Chick-Fil-A for my usual cup of sweet tea and granola parfait, except today was a bit different, I felt the urge to listen to a preacher by the name of Paul Washer.

I saw him preach once and I found myself trying to sink into into the pew - his words are so convicting! The Lord is really using that man! {watch this for proof}

Anyway, in the sermon I listened to this morning (different from the one I linked to) Bro. Paul asked: "What are you doing [for God] with those hands of yours?!"

He was preaching on Romans 12:1-2 (my favorites) and focused on giving your body up as a holy and living sacrifice.

As soon as I heard the words, "What are you doing with those hands of yours?", I immediately knew that this was a part of what God wanted to communicate to me through 1 John 3:18.

I talk a good talk but am I really living it out?

As of now my hands do so many frivolous things: change channels on the tv, browsing the internet for random junk, typing blog posts that are practically pointless, eating when I'm not actually hungry, Facebook and so many other selfish things.

What my hands could should be doing: sharing the Gospel, helping others, keeping a neat and orderly home, teaching my son, serving and loving my husband, turning the pages in my Bible, lifted up in praise, and laying before me as I'm knelt in utter worship before a Holy God.

The question just keeps turning and turning in my mind...

Keeps convicting me.

I just have to ask...

What are YOU doing with those hands of yours?

Since everyone else is...

What color are your socks right now?

I only wear socks when I run. Other than that, never.

What are you listening to right now?

IT guy talking upstairs.

Co-worker getting a tent ready for a video shoot.

Typing. Airplanes.

What was the last thing you ate?

A banana.

Can you drive a stick?

Negative.

Last person you spoke to on the phone?

I don't know.

Probably some pastor.

I work for a Southern Baptist convention where pastors call in all the time.

How old are you today?

26

What is your favorite sport to watch on TV?

Baseball.

Texas Rangers baseball to be more specific.

What is your favorite drink?

Sweet tea!

Have you ever dyed your hair?

I got highlights once.

They looked great but just weren't for me.

Also, don't let Krissy give you highlights.

She will stab you in the head and make you cry.

Favorite food?

Pickles, egg rolls, pot roast, potato soup.

What is the last movie you watched?

I tried to watch Glory Road (one of my favorites) but my stupid dvd is broken.

Favorite day of the year?

Vacation.

How do you vent anger?

Crying and cleaning.

Sometimes yelling and throwing things.

Mostly crying and cleaning though.

What was your favorite toy as a child?

In my day we didn't have toys.

We played outside with rocks and sticks.

We also dug up baby moles and climbed

trees for baby birds to raise as pets.

(ok, we did have some toys. my favorites were always My Little Ponies!)

Favorite Season?

Spring and Fall.

Not winter.

Definitely not summer.

Cherries or Blueberries?

If I had to choose I'd say cherries but really blackberries are where it's at!

Living situation?

An apartment with my hubby and son.

We'd love to be in a home by the end of the year though.

When was the last time you cried?

Sunday.

What is on the floor of your closet right now?

A filing box, a pair of David's shoes and a couple of shirts.

What are you most afraid of?

Failure. Bees. Making people mad. Going to prison.

(i have no reason to be afraid of prison. i just am.)

Plain, cheese, or spicy hamburgers?

Plan with pickles and ketchup.

Favorite dog breed?

I like mutts, boxers and Irish Wolfhounds.

Favorite day of the week?

Friday.

How many states have you lived in?

Three: Oklahoma, Arkansas and Texas.

Diamonds or pearls?

You mean I have to choose?!

What is your favorite flower?

Hydrangeas, Peonies, Sunflowers.

Did you get an H1N1 vaccine?

Heck no!

Do You Know What I Need?

A bedroom this cute!

No but really...

I need to FOCUS!

I am like a chicken with my head cut off!

Do you ever lose sight of your priorities, vision and overall goals for things? Take this blog for instance: It has become more and more random...less about faith, Ethan and all of our goings on. and more about....well, random stuff.

That's what the rest of my life has been like lately. I feel like I've just woken up from running on auto pilot for a really long time and I'm just now trying to regain some sense of direction.

I know the first thing that I need to do...

Make Christ the center of my world! He is my Lord, my Savior, my Rock. How dare I feel like I can manage my life without Him. I think I need to read Living the Cross Centered Life again.

I'm going to try to start getting up 30 minutes earlier than I "have to" so that I can spend some intentional time with Him. I really REALLY really want to sit at his feet each day just to praise Him and know Him more!

Here's Your Chance!

My awesome blogfriend Amanda did this over at her blog and encouraged all her readers to do it on our own blogs.

Since I do pretty much everything I'm told to do...I thought I'd comply.

That and I've noticed that I've got quite a few (15-ish) anonymous followers and a few new ones (hi, and welcome to A Special Blend...like I always say, 'round here we treat you like family but come anyway.) at that.

Surely, you all have questions!

Well, here's your chance!

Ask me anything!

Well, almost anything...I do have a few subjects I will not comment on...but you guys are awesome and tactful so I won't have to worry about any of those.

(simply leave a comment or e-mail me your question and as soon as I get a good number of questions, I'll go ahead and post your questions and my answers on my next blog!)

Thought you should know...

Things I love

Babies

Ponies

Dreaming up names for our unborn children (or, perhaps, future adopted children): Olivia Grace, Piper Caroline.

Rainy days

My uncle's turkey tacos

Baptisms

Photography (though I have zero talent of my own)

Gold Bond Ultimate soothing Chamomile

Being crafty

The $7 quilt I just bought

Roasted corn on the cob

Making new blog friends

Things I strongly dislike

Spam (the e-mail kind and the "food" kind)

When school is cancelled for minor winter weather events (that's Texas for ya)

False doctrine

Roller coasters that go upside down

That Marge lives 4 hours away

The lack of Thursday night Girl's Night Out - gotta get this started again

The price of Tiffany diamond rings

Dentist appointments

Parasites (EW EW YUCK! Getting the heebie jeebies just typing out that word!)

When people say the word "preggers"

That there's a chance Conan will go away from Late Night. Isn't it time for Leno to retire?

Things that crack me up

When weather men say "Arctic Blast"

The way Ethan says he wants a "big brudder...not a wittle one" (no, I'm not pregnant)

Hedgehogs

When I over hear little boys having "serious conversations"

When I realize I'm wearing two different socks in public

When my hubs tells me not to smile when I'm trying to be mad at him

When the youth at church introduce themselves by their nicknames. No, I'm not going to call you "Drone"

The word "crap" (classy, I know)

When I realize that I've gone all day with a french fry stuck in my hair

Fave Four

I got this off of my friend's Facebook page. Since I've got a little smidgen of time I thought I would breeze through it. Hopefully next week I'll have some free time to tell you all about the fun stuff we've been up to!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Four places I go regularly: Church, work, CVS, Starbucks

Four favorite Smells: Scenty's Luxe Vanilla (which they've discontinued), clean babies, rain, my husband's cologne

Four people I think will respond: Surprise me!

Four TV shows I watch: Ghost Hunters (yeah, yeah, yeah), NCIS, The Office, America's Most Wanted

Four Books you have read or are reading: {all currently being read} Knowing God by J.I. Packer, A Pebble in the Pond by Julie Baker, Simple Changes for a Better Life by Elizabeth George, Living the Cross Centered Life by CJ Mahaney (reading this one with my hubby)

Four recent movies I have seen: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, Return to Me (one of my faves), After the Thin Man, Monsters vs. Aliens

Four places I would love to be right now: Bed, go have coffee with Kate, Eureka Springs (with endless funds, I might add!), my Dad and Step-Mom's home.

Four people I want to see right when I get to heaven: Granny, Grandpa, my cousin David and Grandma Rash

Four places I want to see before I die: The Grand Canyon....Italy....Ireland....The Center of the Universe (aka: Tulsa, Oklahoma)

FAQ

I have given into the requests of my hundreds of thousands, ok both of my adoring blog readers and decided to post a Frequently Asked Question page.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

1. You keep switching blogs on us...what's up?
First off, I'm indecisive. Seriously. Ask my RL friends (RL = Real Life). Second, I thought I'd get more fulfilment out of blogging if I had a set theme or structure - turns out that's not the case. Finally, I got home sick.

2. Do you speak Spanish?
Nope. Not a lick. I look like I would though.

I'm Cherokee, look very much Hispanic and live in Texas so I thought it would be wise to learn Spanish since so many people mistake me for Hispanic. I took four years of Spanish in high school: Spanish I twice and Spanish II twice and it never took.

3. You're Cherokee and from Oklahoma, how'd you get stuck in Texas?
Long story short: I moved to Texas in 9th grade after my mom got a job down here. I got stuck in Texas by gettin' hitched to a Texan before I could get out! (love you Hubs!)

4. How much weight are you trying to lose?
Oh about 100lbs. It's going to be tons o' fun to lose!


5. Why do you want to be Southern (blog post HERE)?
The way I see it Oklahoma is like the belly button of the USA. Don't get me wrong, I love Oklahoma but it doesn't really fit into any region (West, Southwest, East, Midwest, North...).

Also, I love the culture of Southern Women. There's a gracious and gentle way about these hard as nails women and I think it's really something to look up to.

6. When are you going to have more kids?
When the good Lord gives them to us, is what I like to say! We're hoping to either get pregnant or start the process to adopt within the next year. We'll see though.


7. I see that you're a Christian...what do you believe?
Well, I'm Southern Baptist and affirm the 2000 Baptist Faith and Message.

8. What is the style of your home?
We live in a tiny 2 bedroom apartment in the suburbs of DFW. I love the old farmhouse style and long for the day that Hubs and I can move into an old farmhouse in the country; until then, I'm happily decorating my home to look like one.

9. I heard that your son has special needs, if that's true, what are they?
While he hasn't been officially diagnosed, he is being treated for Bipolar Disorder. Since he's only 5, it's very unheard of and pretty much frowned upon to diagnose a child with BP as young as Ethan. The changes we've seen in him since starting BP treatment are truly REMARKABLE. We still cope with a few sensory issues and ADHD but he's doing SO well! Praise the Lord!

10. What on earth is this blog all about?
It's about everything happening in the life of me and my family. It's about weight loss, faith, antiques, decorating, life, random things, marriage, Ethan...you know: Life.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Do you have questions for me? If so, e-mail them to theamandajo@gmail.com.

As Southern As Possible

I've decided that I will, in addition to pursuing simplicity, be as southern as possible. I'm from Oklahoma, which isn't considered Southern, Midwestern or Southwestern. And since being an "Okie" isn't exactly something to brag about here in Texas I figured I'd just impose myself upon the South.

I am completely infatuated with the "Southern woman" lifestyle! I'm not sure what enchants me the most about southern women: the charm, the grace, the wit, the sweet tea or that accent.... My ear always perks when I hear Beth Moore, Paula Deen or my sweet boss Darla.

There's a sweet simplicity to the way of the South. Every southern woman I've ever met keeps her cool even when she's madder than a wet hen. Although, I wouldn't recommend messin' with her!

I did some research yesterday and found few books I may check out....

(the book at the top of the page, I'm going to put on my birthday list!)

Doesn't that book just look so sweet?

Dolly Parton endorsed this one - she's VERY Southern!

I don't know if this one is Southern or not but I like the idea of it!

This is another one I'm sure to buy/borrow soon!!!

Last but not least, The Grits Guide to Life!!!

Girls Raised in the South.

This could very well be my Southern Woman handbook.


Finally, this book HERE says exactly what I'd like to say to soooooo many parents...but I don't have the guts.

Currently...

• Studying Proverbs 31 - in detail - verse by verse. Future Bible study in the making? Hopefully!

• Thinking up ways to gussy-up the garage for Hub's Father's Day surprise.

• Praising God for His provision and peace!

• Getting back to South Beach. I took an 8 hour break yesterday and woke up SICK this morning! Apparently, my body hates carbs more than I do.

• Wondering where all my readers/commenters have gone.

• Trying to psych myself up for another day of Shred with Jillian.

• Thinking about planning a family camping trip.

• Lost 4 pounds this week!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Graceful

If there is one thing I would want to be it's more graceful and lady like.

I have always been a tom boy. I played softball, went rock climbing, jumped off cliffs into the lake, dug up worms, made rolly polly homes out of dirt and shoe boxes...well, they were actually more like a rolly polly valley of death, but anyway.

Growing up in sticks of eastern Oklahoma we didn't get a lot of opportunity to do girly stuff and most of my cousins were boys so I did what any girl would do: try to show them up. Thus, the death of any thought of me being a girly girl.

Even as I got into high school I was still very much a tom boy. So much so that one guy actually told me he didn't want to officially date me because he was "afraid I'd become too girly". Whatever the heck that's supposed to mean.

A couple of weeks ago I had a mini-reunion with one of my old groups of friends (see pic to the right) and they were all shocked that I showed up in a while frilly jacket (very cute from Kohl's only $16!!), a necklace and make up...of all things.

I guess that boy up there was right. I did become more girly after I got into a serious relationship. I wonder if that's the norm?

Now that I'm hanging around with classy ladies and seeing what true femininity is, my lack of grace and manners is becoming more evident.

Rarely do I make it through a meal without wearing some of it home on my clothes. My foot has a permanent place in my mouth. I don't write thank you notes very often (I'm sorry friends). I use the wrong fork at fancy dinners. I can't figure out how to wear eyeliner right. I wear flip flops everywhere - with everything.

Do you guys have any tips for being more lady like? As a women's ministry leader, I kinda need to polish my image a little!

Help!

Look what I just found that Jannell did over on her facebook! Let's see how girly I am!

How Girly Are You?

WHAT YOU HAVE:
[] You own over 10 bottles of nail polish
[] You own a designer purse
[] You own perfume that cost over $60
[x] You had/have fake nails
[] You have more body/hair products than you use
[] Your pet is a Chihuahua/Pomeranian/Yorkshire Terrier/Siamese/Shih Tzu/Dachshund
[x] You have clothes/shoes/accessories for your pet
[] You have enough clothes to cover an entire refugee camp.
[] You have enough pictures to create your own wallpaper.
=2

ADORE:
[] Makeup
[] Glitter
[] The Color Pink
[] Jewelry
[] Mirrors
[x] Chick flicks
[x] Shoes
[] Rainbows
[] Unicorns
[] Disney Movies
[] Candles
[X] Flowers
[] Stuffed Animals
[x] Purses
=3

DO YOU SHOP AT:
[] Coach
[] Forever 21
[] Victoria's Secret
[] Guess
[] Claires
[] Express
[] Delias
[] Hollister
[] American Eagle
[] Abercrombie & Fitch
[]Aeropostale
[] ROMY
[] 20 below
=0 (ahem, where are Target, Kohl's and Old Navy?)

DO YOU SAY:
[X] Whatever
[X] Oh my gosh/goodness
[] Hun
[] Like
[] That's hot
[] Dunzo
[] Darlin ( I don't but I'll start! I want a Southern Accent SO bad!)
[] Phtt
[x] Cutie
[] Hottie/Sexy man
[X] Totally
[] For Sure
[] Fabulous
[x] right...
=5

DO YOU READ:
[] Cosmopolitan
[] Glamour
[] Marie Claire
[] Elle Girl
[] Teen Vogue/Vogue
[] People
[] Us Weekly
[] Star
[x] Self
[] Fashion Mag
[] Dlisted.com
[] 17online.com
[] PerezHilton.com
[] usmagazine.com
[] popsugar.com
[] Pink Is The New Blog.com
=1


DO YOU LOVE THESE:
[x] Legally Blonde
[] Elizabethtown
[x] Mean Girls
[] The Notebook
[] A Walk to Remember
[x] Sweet Home Alabama
[] Where the Heart is
[] Just My Luck
[] John Tucker Must Die
[] Center stage
[] Bring it On
[x]How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
[] Mona Lisa Smile
[] My Girl
=4


DO YOU REALLY ENJOY...
[x] America's Next Top Model
[] Project Runway
[] Desperate Housewives
[] The Simple Life
[] 8th & Ocean
[] Sex & the City
[] Grey's Anatomy
[] The O.C.
[] Laguna Beach/The Hills
[] Nip/Tuck
[x] Gilmore Girls
[] Degrassi
= 2

Grand Total: 16

Now multiply the total by 2

16x2= 32%

I am 32% girly. For reference, Jannell scored a 58%.

black cats and bathrooms

As you all may remember from a previous, rather humbling post (here), my childhood was unlike any childhood most people born after 1940 ever dreamed of having.


I was raised in a little bitty tiny community called Burnt Cabin (see link above for map).


It's about 20 minutes to the east of Muskogee, Oklahoma and about two hours from the Arkansas line. It's in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains - so, unlike most of Oklahoma, this area has beautiful rolling hills, thick green forests and crisp blue lakes and rivers.


The first home I remember was a glorious, old metal mobile home. It looked a lot like this one, except that it was longer and had a brown stripe through the middle.


We lived on about 6 acres that my family shared. Granny had a six room home that my grandpa built himself about 100 yards from us. Uncle Jim and Linda lived in a mobile home like ours, except white, about 50 yards from us. Then my cousin Rhonda and her family lived in a home the Cherokee Nation built about 150 yards from the rest of us. We also had two barns, a chicken coop and an old pig pen.


I loved living "Down Home" as we all called it. Instead of hours in front of cartoons, we played outside in the woods that lined the east side of our land. There weren't too many kids for us all to play with, except the Hick's but we weren't allowed to play with them (they had head lice). BUT - there were plenty of animals for us to mess with. While the chicken coop and the pig pen sat empty, we had a band of old dogs, who formed their own pack, that hung around since Granny and Grandpa would feed them. We also had about 30ish cats that overtook the pig pen. (What? We were poor and couldn't afford to get them all fixed, besides, they controlled the mice that killed our plants). Anyway...


I remember one time my cousin Justin and I (we were both 7 at the time) found some old black cat fireworks. After lighting off one or two here or there we decided we needed more excitement. So, we found a REALLY long string and tied a whole row of black cats to one end and as we were climbing up to tie them into a tree my sister's cat Charlie walked by...


Justin jumped out of the tree and caught poor ol' Charlie. So, I held him down as Justin tied the other end of the long (and I emphasize long - it had to be at least 6 feet long). Then, he lit the fuse.


I can honestly say I've never seen a cat run so fast.


That was the day Justin and I were restricted from playing together...and we both got spankin's from dad's belt too. See, the cat ran under our trailer, which had a very classy siding. Red rocks stacked up underneath. Think something like this...but with red rocks.



Anyway...turns out dad was "using the facilities" when that cat ran right under the bathroom. He had no idea WHAT was going on except that he heard gunshots and a cat screeching.



When he came out he saw Justin and I doubled over laughing. As soon as we saw him though...all laughing stopped. And I confessed, which earned me an elbow to the ribs from Justin.



Anyway...that's just one out of MANY stories I have of my childhood.

And I'm sure you're all wondering:



Charlie was unharmed in this incident, although from that point on he would jump at any loud noise. He went on to live a full life of beating up local dogs and sleeping on the porch until he died of cancer back in '99.



Justin...well...things were never the same between us after that day. I was a "snitch" and he was a "bad influence" (according to my parent). Sadly, I don't know what happened to him. Hopefully, he's doing well.



That old trailer was replaced with a nice, shiny double-wide a few years later. I'll always remember her mirrored walls and fancy rock siding. I hope she's been recycled into something nice!



Daddy fully recovered from his traumatic bathroom experience and has gone on to marry the most AMAZING woman EVER who I am proud to call my stepmom. When he's not driving his semi, he walking a golf course or mowing his lawn - even if it doesn't need it.



And then there's me....and you guys know alllll about me.

And here's my favorite commercial...just for fun:

7 Things About Me

My newest blogfriend Heather tagged me (thanks Heather!)!!

Here are 7 things you may not know about me....

1. I have secretly enjoyed watching...of all things...The Speed Channel with my husband. We've been watching Pinks and Pass Time, which are shows about drag racing and a great perk is seeing all of the old vintage cars people race.


2. I have been "broken up with" (he wasn't an official boyfriend) with this line: "If we dated, I'm afraid that you wouldn't be as manly." Makes me wonder about him.



3. Bands I've seen live: Dave Matthews Band 4 times, John Mayer twice, Everclear, Eve 6, Matchbox 20, Dynamite Hack, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Foo Fighters, Dashboard Confessional, Lifehouse (booring), Weezer, Sugar Ray, Smash Mouth, 4Him, Colbie Caillet (sp), Brett Dennen (twice), Taj Majal, Wyclef and a few others I can't think of....

4. I have zero rhythm. But does that keep me from dancing....?


5. I worked an an activity director for an Alzheimer's home for 2 years (almost). It was the most touching job....it has effected me in so many ways. I praise the Lord for the time I had serving there.

6. I care waaaay too much about what other people think of me (and this blog), as if you couldn't tell.


7. I'm addicted to the Sci-Fi Channel's show Ghost Hunters. It's a reality show where this team of paranormal investigators goes into allegedly haunted buildings trying to prove that they are not, in fact, haunted. I like it because these guys don't just go in and think the place is haunted, it has to prove that it is.




Here are the guidelines for this meme:

1. You link back to the person who tagged you (me).


2. You get to “tag” 7 people (or less if you’d like) and link them on your blog, as I'm going to do further down.


3. Be sure to comment on the blogs of others who were tagged.


4. I think it would be a good idea to let them know they've been tagged.

Here's Who I'd Like to Hear From:

1. My bff (besides my hubby) in real life: Kate. Let's see if there's anything I don't know about you. Are you up for the challenge?

2. My sister in Christ and a true inspiration: Leigh. I have really enjoyed getting to know Leigh through her blog...she's so humble and, at the same time, zealous for the the Lord, it's awesome.

3. My accountability puddy, Crystal. Seriously...you guys will be blessed to know this AMAZING woman! She's a single Christian woman whose heart's desire is to glorify God.

4. Shhhhhhhayla! By far the most upbeat and cheery girl I know! I just love her! She's a new believer so run over to her blog and show her some love. She hasn't blogged in a while (and neither has Crystal) but I'll be sure and make them blog soon.........or else.......

5. My sweet blogfriend Amanda. I am so excited to know her! It's so nice to find other believers who are on the same page as you...it has been so refreshing to get to be her friend! That and she has the CUTEST little ones!!!

6. I am super excited about my newest real life friend, Mandy. I've worked with her husband for 2...maybe 3 years now and just recently started hanging out with his wife. I just love her spunk and she sure does throw a great New Years Eve party!!!! Girl, we've gotta do games again soon!!!!

Last but certainly not least....

7. Hilltopper! If the witty sense of humor and one cute little boy weren't enough, this mama sure can make a mixed cd! Seriously, it's been in my changer ever since I got it in the mail! Stop by there, she'll be sure to have to giggling!

What I Wanted To Be.

Yep.

I have always wanted to be a police officer. Not so much in the riot gear but still.

I even had a dream the other night that I was a motorcycle officer. I have not ridden on a motorcycle since I was about 7 and that was on the back of my uncle's Harley.

Needless to say, I'm not a police officer. I do satisfy my craving of justice and police work by watching insane amounts of COPS, America's Most Wanted, CSI and other crime shows.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Let The Randomness Begin (take 2)

**Had to edit: My grammer in this blog is HORRIBLE! So, I changed what I caught.

Anyway...please take a second to vote on this poll I've got posted over on the sidebar. I loved researching and debating with all of you and would like to know where we should go next!!!

Ok...on with the blog!

I've got lots of things to say today, so here we go!



1. The Five AM Club.

For the last two-ish months I've been getting up at 5am so that I will have time to spend in solitude with the Lord and serve my family before they wake up. The fun part is that I am not the only one who does this!! There's a whole group of us! If you've never read Feminine Appeal by Carolyn Mahaney, visited Girl Talk or read Sarah Mae's blog you probably think we're nuts. Stop by Sarah's blog if you want to join in the group!!



I have to tell you, I found it pretty easy to keep up with at first but after Ethan went into the hospital for 24 hours (read about that here) my sleep cycle has been thrown off. I've been getting up between 5:30 and 6:00am instead. Hopefully I'll be able to fully get on the bandwagon again on Monday.



5am Tip: Do not use your coffee grinder! It's way too loud and your family will wake up. Prepare your coffee the night before and set your coffee pot to delay brew. It's like happy little elves woke up at 4:45 and made me my own estra special pot of coffee - kind of makes me feel like a queen.



2. Another New Blog.

I feel like I'm starting a new blog every other month these days but Hilltopper had a great idea for me to start a blog for new believers. This thought had never even crossed my mind so when she mentioned it seemed like a perfectly natural thing for me to do since mentoring and doctrine are my passions - you know, aside from coffee and organizing.



So, Turning To Faith was born. Whether you're new to Christianity, have been around for a while or you're not a Christian this blog is for you! It serves to educate and encourage all believers to fight the good fight of faith and gives helpful information to non-believers. Stop by there, leave a comment and(or) shoot me an e-mail with a topic or doctrine question you'd like covered on this new blog! Link to it from your blog so more and more people can be helped. Also, if you're interested in helping out with this blog by writing an article please e-mail me and we'll chat!



3. Christmas Shopping Tomorrow!





I still can't believe it's almost Thanksgiving! This means I waited until the last minute to buy Christmas presents - AGAIN! So this weekend Kate, our friend Mandy, and I are heading out for some shopping. Yesterday we had a good idea where we were going but after finding out from a local that that town does NOT have good shopping, even at the antique malls, we decided to make other antiquing plans.


4. Ethan's New Bed!
Ethan went with his daddy to pick up his new bed yesterday!. When Ethan saw me this morning yelled "Momma! I got a new bench (bench, bed, whatever)! It's in the garage! From Uncle Danny!"

Uncle Danny? Ethan does not have an Uncle Danny. The STRANGER we met on Craigslist,who sold us the bed, was named Danny. Give him something and you're automatically family...that's how he rolls.


5. Why did Ashley Simpson and Pete Wentz name their son Bronx MOWGLI Wentz?

Ok, sorry for the celebrity gossip break....I know I shouldn't but I had to. Mowgli, really? Poor kid. People are going to be singing the Bear Necessities to him his entire life. Bronx is cute though!

100 Things About Me (Part 2)

More Randoms
51. I once went to a seminar and was instructed to no long ask "How are you doing?" when greeting somebody, instead I should ask "What has become more clear you to lately?" Yeah, I see that happening.

52. I think it's pretty sad that ABCNews posted a story about Joe the Plumber's tax debt. Seriously, he is just a man who asked a question. Why are his private tax matters any of our business? Shame on you ABCNews. Focus on what really matters: the election.

53. PDA grosses me out. Except holding hands, I think that's acceptable. And hugging, that's not so bad in moderation. Kissing though...

54. I am really excited about Thanksgiving and Christmas! I usually dread the holidays but not this year! Bring them on!

55. I love checking the mail. Usually all that's in there are bills and junk but the anticipation of maybe, possibly getting a surprise is worth it all.

56. I love documentaries.

57. I collect Fireking Jadeite, Hobnail milkglass and dust bunnies.

58. I think my blog is awkward and boring...but for some reason you read it.

59. I had a dream the other night that I got to meet and hang out with New Kids on the Block. I guess it's because I can't see them in concert on Saturday night. :( Another childhood dream, shattered.

60. I love to listen to preachers on the radio, but only certain ones: John MacArthur, Jack Graham, Al Mohler, Alistair Begg and Robert Jeffress

Faith and Doctrine
61. The prosperity gospel scares and sickens me.

62. The John MacArthur Commentary is the best one I've ever used.

63. I read the Holman Christian Standard Version of the Bible but I also like the NASB and ESV.

64. I steer clear of The Message and The Good News Bible.

65. I am currently studying the book of Ruth. I will, Lord willing, present it as the next Bible study for the women's ministry I "lead" at my church.

66. I teach 4th - 6th grade Sunday School and LOVE it. I love my kiddos!

67. I believe in God's sovereign grace...if you want to know what that means e-mail me!

68. I consider myself a Southern Baptist.

69. I would love to meet CJ Mahaney and his wife, Al Mohler, John MacArthur and John Piper.

70. We should all be praying for our Iraqi brothers and sisters in Christ, they are enduring heavy persecution right now!

Things I've Wanted To Be...
71. Horse Trainer

72. Marine Biologist (what little girl didn't want to be this at some point?)

73. Chef

74. Stage Manager for Saturday Night Live

75. Forest Ranger

76. Game Warden

77. Police Officer

78. Women's Minister

79. Christian Councilor

80. Chief of the Cherokee Nation (I'm not kidding)

Things That Make Me Laugh
81. Babies laughing

82. The Office and The Big Bang Theory

83. The word 'crap'

84. This music video...it's actually a really good re-do (clean re-do) of a Jay-Z song done by my friend's sister's friend. (Did you follow that?)

85. Demetri Martin (watch out for the language!)

86. My husband and his wacky sense of humor

87. When Ethan blows raspberries on my tummy

88. Weird Al (sorry, it's true)

89. Practical jokes

90. When my father-in-law wears "skater shoes"

More Randoms
91. I love red hair...I wish I had red hair

92. I'm going to participate in early voting - why wait if you can go early and avoid all the lines?

93. I could use a good foot rub...any volunteers?

94. I am currently reading Worldliness

95. While I'll miss our old youth minister, I am REALLY excited about being on the search committee to find the new one!

96. http://www.carm.org/

97. My elbows are double jointed

98. I am actually excited about Ethan being interested in playing hockey! Although, I still wish he'd show more interest in baseball.

99. I have a tan line from my flip flops year round

100. John 3:30

101. I love this song:

Ahhh...that's better.

Simple. I love things that are simple...even when it comes to blog layouts. I'm all about less fuss. How about you?

So here's what's going on in my life right now:

Ethan: He's still not doing very well in school when it comes to following rules, paying attention and getting along with other people. He does however love learning and is eager to do his classwork. He's doing pretty well in daycare but he's having a hard time napping. I know he's nearly 5 (on the 24th) but he really needs naps. He's such a bear in the evenings and even asks to take a nap when he gets home.

David: HE GOT A JOB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have a strong feeling that it's going to be a good one for him too! He's going to be working for my friend's husband at a moving company. David's really excited about it and actually started today. Which means we won't have to miss a single paycheck.

Guys, thank you so much for your prayers! The Lord heard you and made His will clear to David. And to answer a question I got regarding the drug test: it was a dry shave, no water or shaving cream.

Me: I am starting off my weight loss endeavor pretty strong. I'm getting pretty good at keeping my food journal but the way I can tell I'm making a real change is by the fact that I didn't make fun of or taunt a single runner I passed this morning in my car. I was actually supportive and could see myself doing that in the future.

I'm currently reading three books: Shepherding a Child's Heart (still), Feminine Appeal (which I'm going to do a study one with some friends) and Worldliness (which I want to do a study on with my women's ministry). Not to mention I am currently studying for our in depth look at the book of Ruth.

Check back here in a few hours, the Lord really spoke to me during my QT today and I feel like I should share it with you guys! Man, is the Lord good or what?!

Seven Wonders of the Amanda

So, Kate tagged me for this fun little quiz thing. I've told so much on the internet about myself, I'm not sure there's much left to tell but I'll give it a shot!!

1. I have never seen Braveheart, You've Got Mail, Kill Bill, The Green Mile, Steel Magnolias, Beaches, When Harry Met Sally, Themla and Louise, It's a Wonderful Life, The Lord of the Rings and many many more movies that everybody and their brother has seen.

Basically, I'm the saddest excuse for a former theatre/film student that you've ever met. We just don't watch movies very often.

2. The smell or taste of artificial grape gives me a migraine. I just can't handle it! Seriously, it's anything from grape flavored suckers, Capri Sun to the smell of Aussie shampoo (which has a grape smell to me) and some car air fresheners.

3. I really love to help other people drive. The truth is: I'm just a bad passenger. I was reading Clever Girl Goes Blog the other day and she was talking about how she also likes to "help" other drive...well, here's a snippet of her blog that really describes me (who knew there were two of us?!):

"I'm a backseat driver. I'll admit it. I am firmly convinced that I am saving us
every time with my shrieking, pedestrian-watching, and eye-covering. Hubs
actually thinks that my hysterics will distract him to the point where it will cause an accident, but I don't think so. I'm helping." -Tia @ Clever Girl Goes Blog

Yeah, she totally describes me! Whether I'm in the car with Kate (my messy nest), my mom or my husband I am a total mess!! I'm not even kidding - and they are all excellent drivers - you should see me when I'm in a car with a person I consider a bad driver, sheesh. I'm surprised I haven't been banned from vehicles.

4. When I am really tired and start rubbing my right eye it makes a very loud squeaking sound. I can actually make it squeak anytime but I really only do it when I'm tired or showing off. David hates it but my boys in Sunday School thought it was "Awesome" and "Sick", which I think is a good thing. I couldn't really tell. Either way, I'm cooler in their eyes for it - and that's what matters.

5. I love playing pranks and jokes on people but, since I am a bad liar, I prefer watching other people's pranks unfold. I really wish I could pull off some good pranks, I have tons of ideas, I just can't seem to keep a straight face!

6. This one is a secret and shouldn't be told to anybody I know in real life. (Kate, Krissy and Shayla, don't read anymore of #6, go ahead and skip down to #7): I'm not as tough as I make people think I am.

I'll give you a minute to let that sink in.

I don't like being scared so you won't catch me watching a horror movie, in a haunted house or in a dark alley in the middle of the night.

I cry at most tv shows, movies, commercials and good sportsmanship, but we've already covered that.

I'm actually a wimp...well, with the exception of my legs, they are crazy strong. Even though I played softball for 9 years and was in weight lifting for 3 years I am not as strong as I make you all think I am. Kate even has to open my A&W twist-off bottle tops for me.

Oh, and I will kill a roach in front of the girls but, if it's just me and my hubs, I'm on the chair screaming till he obliterates it. and I mean obliterates it.

7. I love Fun Dip. Do you remember that candy from when you were a kid? Basically it's a long package that has two hardened sugar sticks with three attached packets of flavored sugar and man do I love it. What you do is take the sugar sticks, lick one and put it in the flavored sugar (cherry is best) and then you lick it off and repeat. It's my favorite. If you don't know what it is, google it and then buy some...you won't regret it, at least, until you crash from the sugar high. Then you might regret it.

So there you have it. I hope you enjoyed this list! I know I'm supposed to tag other people but I don't know who to pick...so, if you read this and want to join in on the fun, please do!!!

Update on David's Job
David is going to an interview today at 1pm - I hope and pray that it goes well!!!

He got a call from the company where he was going to interview with on Friday and they need to reschedule their appointment so...that interview is now on Monday.

David was offered a part-time job to help us out financially until he could get a permanent full time job, so I think he's going to start there here in a couple of weeks.

This Blog

What do I want this blog to be about?

I know it may seem silly to be covering this on post #137ish but I feel like it's necessary to see where we've been and determine where we're going:

If you want to know more about me read HERE.

For the sad truth about my hillbilly upbringing go HERE.

For an idea of my "style" take a look HERE and HERE.

For proof of my dorkiness (like you all need it) look HERE, HERE and, ugh, HERE.

To see where my heart is read HERE and, most importantly HERE.

It's been a long and wild ride. But I feel a change brewin'. I really want this blog to honor God, so I commit to posting a blog once a week (at least) to help my bloggy readers to grow a little or think a little more deeply about the things of the Lord.

I want this blog to help you all live more simple and sincere lives in the Lord so from this point out I will commit to sharing my ideas for having a more godly household whether it be in warm and welcoming decor, relationships among family members and neighbors, great recipes or whatever. Hopefully, we'll get a home computer and a new digital camera so I can show you all my flat. (Ok, ok, apartment.)

I also want this to be a personal blog. I want to share with you all my joy, my pain, my accomplishments, my struggles. I want you all to know the funny things my son is saying. The sweet things my husband does. Or even the wacky things the girls and I do.

I am very tired of living spontaneously. Ethan has structure and routine (otherwise our home would be absolute chaos) but I am not very intentional with how I manage time, my thoughts or even my blabberings on here. I need to honor the Lord by having a more controlled tongue and not writing about things just for the sake of writing about things.

My friend Krissy told me a quote, I don't know if it's from a book she's reading or otherwise: "If you cannot improve on the silence, don't speak." So. Don't be surprised if there's a day or two where you don't hear from me. It's because I don't want to spew all of my ungodly complaining, gossip, slander or other verbal yuck all over the internet.

Whew. I feel so much better getting all of this off of my chest.

THE CHALLENGE

Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable - if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise - dwell on these things. Philippians 4:8

Stop for 5 minutes today and examine the way to talk (or type). Look at the things you say, not just what you say, but the intention of your heart when you say them. Pray to the Lord about the way you use your tongue and ask Him for help to control it in a God-honoring way.