From The Cocoon...

{Nicaragua 2011 ~ Day 1}

2012-01-12T06:28:00.007-06:00

Finally, the day I had been waiting for came. Almost a year of preparations....many of you have prayed for this mission trip and some of you gave financially...all to make this possible. There is so much to share, but I'm going to try and start from the beginning and not get ahead of myself!

The trip actually started on Thursday at the church...weighing our luggage. We were allowed 50 pounds each. I was so nervous, but miraculously I was under by 15 pounds! Hallelujah!! I can add my hairdryer :) I went home and had dinner with my family and tried to soak up every moment, knowing it would be a long week without them. Quentin got up with me and drove me to the church at 2am. It was a foggy morning and once loaded on the bus and headed to Memphis, we realized that the bus defroster doesn't work very well...or at all. Charles was the human defroster, constantly wiping the glass so Billy could see the road. Made for a very long trip to the airport. Billy did a marvelous job...and we only had one scare when he missed the turn and we had to back up so we wouldn't end up in a ditch. We arrived at the airport around 4am...got checked in and waited for our flight. I'm a nervous wreck.

Me & Lizabeth Robinson (my boss) at Atlanta Airport
We landed in Atlanta around 8am and had enough time to kill to grab a little airport breakfast. I survived the flight and my nerves were starting to settle a little. Atlanta International is a huge airport with a tram to take you from gate to gate....when the little speaker comes on and says this train is leaving and you should hold on...they mean it!

I seen several soldiers at Atlanta...catching flights home...and it brought back a flood of memories. I stopped to shake several of their hands and just to thank them for their sacrifice. I don't think you can thank them enough and I know for some of them, they were seeing their families for the first time in months...others were leaving their families to finish tours. I know how that feels and it is always humbling for me to see soldiers & their families in airports.

JR & Brittany Lawrence and Erin Gammill...grabbing some airport breakfast...yum...yum!

Inside view of our hotel, The Best Western, in Managua, Nicaragua (*note this is NOT where we stayed for our mission trip...just the first night while waiting on the rest of our team to arrive)

I got a little nervous when we started flying into Managua...ok...I got ALOT nervous! I was thinking where in the world are they going to land this plane? I couldn't see anything that resembled an airport...all I see was water and buildings. Well, there just happened to be a little...and I do mean little...stretch of a field in the midst of those buildings and that would be where the landing strip was. Wow! As soon as we touched down the pilot immediately applied the breaks...that's how short the runway was. We went through customs & immigration, paid our $10.00, found our luggage and headed to the hotel across the street. If the landing of the plane didn't scare ya, the crossing the street definitely would! Just picture a real live human form of Frogger...these cars weren't stopping for nothing and there was no end in sight, so the best course of action?? RUN!!! (and now I know why you don't want more than 50 pounds of luggage). We checked in and got our room assignments...I would be rooming with Lizabeth and Brandi Parkinson. The rooms were small with 3 twin size beds, but clean...I'll take it.

Me & Brandi Parkinson sporting our Mission Team tees :)

We walked around taking pictures of all the gorgeous vegetation around the hotel. Everything is so green and alive! They had banana trees, palm trees, and even a mango tree!

One example of the beautiful vegetation surrounding the hotel...and just happened to be a "ginger plant". Of course I had to have a picture. You will notice my backpack...it became a permanent fixture to my back during this week.

Me & Kristin Summers at dinner.

After scoping out the hotel, we all decided we were starving...it had been a long day of flights with not much time for eating. We didn't have a translator this first day and the hotel staff could speak some English, but not much, so ordering our food was challenging to say the least. Lizabeth tried using Google Translator on her iPhone, but that proved to be not such a great idea....LOL..She tried to ask "do you have dessert" and ended up translating "are you dessert?"....apparently Google needs to go back to school. The food was wonderful, but we never did get that dessert!

This was my receipt for my meal....the US dollar total is circled with the Cordova total above it...so glad they're doing the exchange for me. I stink at math without a calculator!

JR & Brittany enjoying the music of a party that was going on right outside our rooms. The music was entertaining at first, but around midnight, we were just ready for them to shut it down, so we could get some shut eye.

Passing the time with a 2-deck game of Spades.
The rest of our group (the ones that flew out of Little Rock) weren't due to arrive till 8pm, so we had to stay up for a team meeting. Luckily, I had brought a couple decks of cards in case we had some long layovers at the airports.

The Little Rock group finally arrived (they had a very eventful day of flying including arguing about the extra baggage that had ALL OF OUR SUPPLIES IN IT...and one of the little girls having to carry her little suitcase as a carry on.) They were tired and wore out. We had a quick meeting before bed. Day One complete.

I can't wait to share with you the rest of our week!!

{A New Year}

2012-01-10T20:23:00.002-06:00

I have so much to blog about....and so little time to do it in....(and blogger won't upload my pictures).

I took a little bloggy break in December to get ready for the holidays and for my first ever mission trip to Nicaragua. I have so much to share & show about that trip....I wrote in my journal every day until my hand cramped and took over 800 pictures while I was gone for those 8 days. I'm hoping over the next few weeks to share with you what God is doing in Nicaragua, how He used me to be a small part of that, and how what I experienced changed my life. I don't know if I'm going to blog every day about the trip until I get the story told or maybe devote a post a week to it, but one way or another....I'm telling the story :)

Christmas came and went. It was a much different experience for me this year after just coming home from a 3rd world country and definitely deserves its own post.

In other news....we are T-5 weeks from Little Miss Olivia making her grand entrance into the world. We are all getting anxious...but none of us are as ready as Mallorye. She's had a couple of wonderful showers and has her last one this Sunday.

So....I have plenty to blog about and if blogger will cooperate, then I think I'm ready to tell some stories! Stay tuned.

{30 Days of Thanksgiving-Day 29-30}

2011-12-02T15:57:00.003-06:00

Well...we've reached the end of November. I've loved the intentional reminder of thanksgiving and pray that this attitude remains in my heart...and not just one month out of the year....

...now...the final two...

Day 29: I am thankful for Blake and his attitude on the basketball court.

So many athletes become filled with ego or let their tempers get the better of them, but Blake has learned to keep both of these things in check (for the most part). He wants to be a team player. He wants to see his team succeed. He takes it pretty seriously and tends to get a little frustrated when people want to goof off in the locker room or not practice like its game time.

Day 30: I am thankful for Mallorye reaching her 30th week of pregnancy.

I can't believe she is getting so close to bringing Miss Olivia into the world, and for the most part, Mal has had a really good pregnancy. She's had a few bumps and bruises, mainly her thyroid levels being unstable. She had her first shower last week on Matt's side of the family and got some things she needed, a bouncy seat, a darling little white dress, and enough money to get a crib mattress! Tomorrow is her shower on our side of the family, including friends. Just 10 more weeks!!

{30 Days of Thanksgiving...Day 25-28}

2011-11-29T16:19:00.002-06:00

Whew...almost there! What an eye opening challenge....

Day 25: I am thankful for Olive Garden; a welcome reprieve from hospital food.

After being in the hospital with Quentin's mom for several days, going to lunch with Matt & Mallorye was just what the doctor ordered up for the caretakers :) Just getting away for a few hours renewed our strength so that we could continue on...and the food was yummy!!

Day 26: I am thankful for sleep.

Ok, last night I got zero hours of sleep....ZERO! I was so tired and cranky, but Quentin let me sleep today while he got up and down with his mom. So ready for my own bed, but blessed beyond measure that I get to be here in this moment with Frances & Quentin.

Day 27: I am thankful for going home!!

After 5 days in the hospital at UAMS, Frances was released and we are headed back to Northeast Arkansas. She is doing great and I know once home, her recovery will just be that much quicker.

Day 28: I am thankful for the first snowfall.

Unusual for this area, but we got our first snowfall of the season. Typically, we don't see the white stuff until January or February, but God sent down a little delight for the senses today.

{30 Days of Thanksgiving ... Day 22-24}

2011-11-24T10:02:00.002-06:00

Day 22: I am thankful for my ability to adapt.

Life continually throws curveballs my way, but God has blessed me with an ability to just "roll with the punches." I don't always initially respond well, but it doesn't take me long to get my bearings and figure out what I need to do and do it. I recognize that not all people adapt to challenges in that way, which is why I choose to be thankful for it.

Day 23: I am extremely thankful that my mother-in-law, Frances, made it through surgery with the best possible outcome.

Dr. Laryea did a fabulous job and although he said that he believes that we are dealing with cancer, after removing the colon mass, he was able to reattach and Frances did not have to have a colostomy...or a feeding tube. Both great outcomes! Let the healing begin :)

Day 24: I am thankful for a caring hospital staff at UAMS.

They have been wonderful to us and everyone has wished us a happy thanksgiving and are trying to make the fact that we're in the hospital over the holidays a little less gloomy.

{30 Days of Thanksgiving Day 16-21}

2011-11-21T21:06:00.003-06:00

Trying my best to stay caught up with my daily list of thanks....

Day 16: I am thankful for worship rehearsal.

I'm a part of a really fun team of lead worshippers and although, we're veteran vocalists/musicians....a little practice is always in order AND we have a blast doing it.

Day 17: I am thankful for traveling mercies.

Frances had an appointment in Little Rock at the UAMS Cancer Research Center. It was just me and her today and we left Paragould at 6am....not to return until almost 8pm. It was a long day, but we made all of her appointments and left with a surgery date for next week.

Day 18: I am thankful for my mom.

I call my mom every morning on my way to work and usually 2 or 3 times during the day. Most of the time, I don't have anything to really talk to her about, but she never makes me feel like I'm bothering her. I can't imagine not talking to my mom...she's a great sounding board and without a doubt, my biggest fan in whatever endeavor I tackle.

Day 19: I am thankful for cleaning day.

Not exactly my favorite task, however, this week I enjoyed the time at home to just be domestic.

Day 20: I am thankful for my pastor.

Charles always preaches God's word with boldness and isn't afraid to step on toes. He definitely is annointed by God. He's also just a really down to earth guy and a great friend.

Day 21: I am thankful for distant relatives.

Frances' sisters from Tennessee traveled 12 hours today to be with her and with us during this next week, as she undergoes surgery. It's been 5 years since we've seen them and it really does my heart good to be able to spend some time with them and have them here to help support us during this difficult time. Family is everything.

Can you believe we're only 9 days away until December???

{Baby Aria Beth}

2011-11-16T18:33:00.003-06:00

Whew...after a rough couple of weeks due to Laura's blood pressure being elevated, she was finally admitted Friday morning, November 11th for a C-Section to welcome Little Miss Aria.

Colby waiting to go back to the OR where they were getting Laura ready. I think he was a little anxious to meet his little girl.

Colby bringing Aria to meet the rest of the family. Laura did wonderful and delivered a healthy baby girl with her hubby by her side.

Grammy Liz and Nonna Paula seeing Aria for the first time...this is Liz's first grandbaby and emotions were on overload (I'm sure I'll be the same way in a few months)

YES! All these people are waiting to see Aria!

I adore this picture of Colby taking pictures of his baby girl with his mom, Liz, looking on.

Aria trying out her lungs....I don't think she was very happy about laying naked for the whole world to see....don't you just love all that hair!!!

Welcome to the World....
Aria Beth Henson
November 11, 2011 at 11:51am
8 pounds 4 ounces
20.4 inches long
Loved Beyond Measure!!!

{please note: Laura really was there...lol...I only got one picture of her, as she was heading to the OR, before I had to go back to work...and I'm pretty sure she'll be glad I didn't post it..lol}

{30 Days of Thanksgiving...Day 9-15}

2011-11-16T11:13:00.002-06:00

Yes, I realize I am a week behind. I've been procrastinating, hoping to find time to upload pictures to go along with my blog posts, but I've given up on that idea in an effort to just get caught up. So...here it goes.....

Day 9: I am thankful for friends.

I have to say, I am very blessed to have so many friends and even a few very dear and best friends. Some, I have knows for over 20 years, some just a few short months. I have friends that I can call anytime of day or night and I know they will be there in a heartbeat to help me...friends I can laugh my socks off with...friends that I can be honest with...friends I don't have to name here, because they know who they are. Love you friend!!

Day 10: I am thankful for freedom.

It's so easy to take for granted the freedoms that we enjoy each day, but having a husband who has fought in two wars for that freedom, I have a deeper appreciation and understanding of how precious that gift is. I am blessed to live in a free country called America.

Day 11: I am thankful for a new baby to love.

Aria Beth Henson made her debut today weighing in at 8 pounds and 4 ounces. She looks just like her daddy, my cousin, Colby. Colby & Laura are going to be extraordinary parents and I can't wait until my granddaughter, Olivia joins the fun in February.

Day 12: I am thankful for one-on-one time with my daughter.

Mallorye and I don't get much time just the two of us, but this weekend is different. We are going to Hot Springs to help with the Mrs. Arkansas America Pageant and just hang out...catch up on all the girly talk we sometimes miss in the busyness of our lives.

Day 13: I am thankful for my small group.

Sometimes they frustrate me, but I love each of them so much and want only good things for them. Many of them are young and newly married and I so much want to help them not to make the mistakes that Quentin and I have made along the way. Many of them are wise above their years and the discussions we have are so encouraging...and thought provoking. Love these guys!

Day 14: I am thankful for conversation over dessert.

Tonight, I had a little girl time with my cousins wife, Pam. We haven't seen each other in probably close to 2 years and it was nice to catch up over a decadent dessert at Longhorn Steakhouse....just us...no kids...no husbands. Life is too short and rekindling this relationship felt right. I'm excited to continue what promises to be a great friendship.

Day 15: I am thankful for rain.

I don't particularly like rainy days, but it's necessary for cleansing and growth. It has rained for over 24 hours in NE Arkansas and I would love to complain about that...but I won't. Instead, I will thank God for cooler temperatures brought by the rain, the ducks that will soon have sufficient habitat to migrate to the south, and for my van being washed without me having to do it. All in the perspective.

{11/11/11 11:11am}

2011-11-11T18:11:00.003-06:00

What was I doing at 11:11am today, 11/11/11???

Waiting for my cousin to welcome his baby girl into the world!

Colby waiting to join Laura in the OR to welcome their baby girl into the world.

Aria Beth was born at 11:51am and you'll have to wait until my next post to see pictures of her.....see how I roll...leave ya hangin'!

{Thirty Days of Thanksgiving...Day 7 & 8}

2011-11-09T09:30:00.002-06:00

Day 7: I am thankful for basketball season.

I love this time of year! Even though Blake is the one on the court, it is definitely a family sport. We all enjoy going to his games and cheering him on. Tonight was the Red/Blue game and Blake shined, scoring 4 points in a 6 minute quarter...which included sinking both free throws. Bring on the season.....Go Rams! Go #24!

Day 8: I am thankful for the generosity of others.

Today, my Nicaragua trip is officially PAID IN FULL!! Praise the Lord!!!!! I was just about to send out support letters, but someone saw the need before I was able to mail them and finished off the little dab that I owed. All I have left now is some clothing needs for the trip and my spending money. God's got this!

I am loving voicing my thanksgiving over the blog....have you stopped to thank God for the blessings in your life?? Today is a great day to start.

{Thirty Days of Thanksgiving...Day 4-6}

2011-11-07T10:17:00.002-06:00

Day 4: I am thankful for a flexible, godly place to work.

In today's economic times, just having a job is reason enough to give thanks, but I also work in an environment where K-Love is always playing, everyone has their Bible close at hand, there's a spirit of love, and they're flexible with things that come up with my family.

Day 5: I am thankful for modern medicine.

I have been in pain most of the day, but thankfully, God has provided wisdom for doctors to know how to treat various ailments and I get the benefit of that. One hundred years ago, I would have just had to tough it out and pray I didn't die from the pain...lol.

Day 6: I am thankful for my church.

It's not perfect, which is a good thing, because neither am I! We have a team of pastors that love the Lord and love the people entrusted to them. We don't always see eye-to-eye on everything, but I know they preach and teach God's word and they aren't afraid to step on toes.

{30 Days of Thanksgiving....Days 1-3)

2011-11-03T08:37:00.002-05:00

....because I'm sometimes a procrastinator, and

....because sometimes I just like to enjoy being lazy in the afternoons, and

.....because sometimes my life is crazy hectic

......you're getting my first three thanksgiving days all at once,

...because that's how I roll :)

I love the idea of being thankful and like to believe that I seek to be intentionally full of gratitude on a daily basis, but there's something about November and the winter holidays that make us pause and really think about our lives and the things we have to be truly grateful for. So...I'm going to try to share one thing each day that I'm thankful for (and hopefully, I'll get good enough to actually put pictures with my posts!).

Day 1: I am thankful for God's unending mercy!

I'm not sure where I would be without it....a mess I'm sure. He loves me no matter what I've done, or what I've become...He patiently beckons me back to His arms and lovingly embraces me. Sure, there is discipline and growing pains, but not without love & mercy in the mix.

Day 2: I am thankful for my hubby!

Tonight he cooked dinner, which he does way more than I do. He doesn't complain (too much) when I let the laundry pile up or the house come undone. He loves me unconditionally. He works hard at his civilian job and serves our country sacrificially when duty calls. He sits by me on the 3rd row at church, even though he much prefers the back. We've had plenty of bumps along the way and we still have plenty to learn and areas to grow, but one thing is for sure, our love for one another is rock solid.

Day 3: I am thankful for the opportunity to be a mom!

My children, Mallorye and Blake, and my son-in-law, Matt, are my absolute delight. I can't imagine my life without them. They have made me laugh, made me cry, made me want to bang my head against the wall....they definitely have made life more exciting to live. Never a dull moment. Never! There are so many women who never get to experience motherhood and the joys & struggles that each day brings, but God chose to entrust me (of all people) to care for two, now three, other human beings. I'm not sure anyone has ever trusted me so much!

Stay tuned! Tomorrow brings Day 4 of Thanksgiving.

What are you thankful for today?

{Ronnie}

2011-09-23T08:59:00.003-05:00

This has been an incredibly hard week for our family. Just 2 weeks ago, Quentin's dad went in for a CT Scan to rule out a kidney stone and within a week, we were planning his funeral. I have never seen cancer claim a life so quickly!

We learned on Monday, September 12, that Ronnie had lung cancer that was in the advanced stages. His doctor made us an appointment with the oncologist for September 20th. On Wednesday evening, Ronnie was taken by ambulance to the hospital because he was in so much pain and having a difficult time breathing. They were able to get his pain under control with morphine, which made his breathing a little less labored. We were told that the CT we had the previous week showed that the cancer had spread to the liver and bone. I knew we were on borrowed time. We went home only to find ourselves back in ER the following afternoon. This time, they kept him. After finally finding a regimen of pain meds that worked, he settled in....ate an excellent dinner and had a good nights rest. Friday afternoon though...he took a hard turn for the worse. He was put on a ventilator temporarily while the family was called together to make some very difficult decisions. We decided that he would not want to suffer and be kept alive by machines, so we decided to take the vent off. The ICU staff and Dr. Hines were so wonderful...they allowed us all to stay in there with Ronnie...as did they...and at 6:42pm Ronnie slipped peacefully from this life to eternity, surrounded by his family whom he loved so much and who loved him.

Ronald Vance Bales, Sr. ---May 28, 1040 - September 16, 2011

I have learned so much about Ronnie over the past week while helping Frances sort through the many legalities that had to be tended to. He was so organized...loved his family so much...I have just been in awe at the man I was really just beginning to get to know.

He will be greatly missed.

{Impromptu Sabbatical}

2011-09-04T20:54:00.002-05:00

This is where I've been......

Last week was rough....extremely rough. I was physically worn out, emotionally spent, and spiritually drained. God knew I needed a breather. And soon.

So....Lizabeth happened to have a timeshare condo already rented for the weekend...and not being used...so at 9am Friday...we decided to head to Fairfield Bay. No husbands. No children. No agendas. I took my Bible, a journal, a book, a couple pair of shorts and tees and some flip-flops. My soul desperately needed this time to refresh, relax, and renewal. And that's exactly what I did. I'll share more later....but suffice it to say, this was a very soul opening weekend.

{Back to School 2011}

2011-08-21T13:10:00.005-05:00

We survived the first week of school!!

I always look forward to this time of year...being able to get back to a more structured routine....new pencils...fresh notebooks.....ball season is just around the corner....I just love it! I'm pretty sure that Blake does not share my enthusiasm as noted by the lovely smile he sports for our traditional "back to school" photo. I keep trying to tell him, that someday, he'll thank me for the photo documentation :)

If ever there was a doubt regarding Blake's rapid growth....see above pictures! He has grown about 6 inches and is a towering 6'5" now. This is awesome for playing basketball and I'm sure the coaches would like to see him grow even more, but give a momma a break! It's hard to keep up with jeans, shoes, and the amount of food he puts away!!

Blake is all about punctuality. He had two different friends, Sydney & Michael, offer him rides for the first day....his dad and I both offered to take him....but none of us were leaving early enough for him. He leaves the house every morning around 7:25am to walk the two blocks to school, so he can be there early.

It's already been a challenging year. Blake isn't really used to having to do very much homework. Most of the time, he's able to finish it at school and he has an incredible memory....but this year he is finding homework a necessity. He's taking AP World History and spent 3 hours one night doing homework for that class. Hopefully, he'll find his rhythm soon and it won't be quite such a daunting task.

Check out other Back To School traditions over at Kelly's Blog...a fellow Arkansan :)

{Saturday Road Trip}

2011-08-14T21:48:00.000-05:00

With summer coming to an end, and given the fact that we haven't gone anywhere, we decided Saturday was a great day for a road trip. Destination? Kentucky! This was a new venture for us and we were pretty excited to explore The Land Between The Lakes. I brought along my camera (of course) to work on some techniques and capture the day....so...get ready for picture overload :)

First stop was the Nature Station and while we were driving through the gate, we came upon this herd of fallow deer. These deer could care less that we were there and we were able to get within about 30 feet. Beautiful!

The Nature Station was a little small, but had plenty of eye candy. I caught this butterfly flittering around gathering pollen. There were several gorgeous butterflies and I tried to capture the hummingbirds....oh my...there were too many to count...and they were a little fast for my camera skills. One of the Nature Guides told us they were in a feeding frenzy, getting ready for their migration across the Gulf of Mexico.

This little feller (turkey) was taking advantage of some thirst quenching water.

Practicing my depth of field....

Pretty pleased with these results....

This was a great setting to capture some pictures of Blake....he just recently celebrated his 16th birthday and I've yet to get the official pictures...and since he absolutely loves nature...this was the perfect setting. These pictures were actually taken just outside the Red Wolf den...which was the main thing Blake wanted to see. They are endangered with less than 300 still living.

Handsome Fellow!

We left the Nature Station in search of some good food and seen all these sailboats on the lake (Kentucky Lake) and of course I had to stop and grab some photos. I mean seriously...how often do you see a lake full of sailboats??

Shooting past some grass....

Using depth of field to focus on grass and blur sailboat...

After stopping to eat at Miss Scarlet's, where I ate one of the best burgers I've ever had (akin to a Roys Burger for those that know), we stopped at the Lighthouse Landing.

We met this delightful lady, Joan, from Alabama. She was just enjoying the nice breeze by the dock and reading, while her husband of 56 years participated in the sailboat races. Alas! We know why there's so many sailboats out on the lake!!

Sailboats...sailboats...and more sailboats!

Quentin and Blake enjoying the view...

My little man...that has somehow become a young man...do you see that hair on his face?? Where did my little boy go?

This just looks so incredibly peaceful....

A small storm blew in while we were at the Landing and this picture captured it perfectly!

On to our next stop...The Bison & Elk Prairie...once we finally figured out how to work the pay gate, we were in...and this is the first thing we seen. Bison! Up close and personal.

I've only seen bison on television, so this was pretty cool and super cheap...$5 per car. We also were lucky enough to see a herd of momma elk, but they were too far in the distance to get a really good picture.

Last stop of the day was at The Hitching Post....it was like stepping back in time. Blake and I enjoyed a game of tic-tac-toe on the front porch of the store and then Blake tried the original "Teeter" game...much harder than it looks and as you can tell...he was in deep concentration!

We had so much fun just exploring The Land Between The Lakes from one end to the other and I'm sure we'll be making this trip again :)

{Faith}

2011-08-08T09:12:00.002-05:00

Decision is made.

I AM GOING TO NICARAGUA!

This was tough for me, but I truly believe that God has called me to go on this missionary journey and if I believe that, then I must believe that He will take care of all of the details. The money will be there when I need it. Mallorye will be fine & our precious grandbaby will wait for me to make his/her grand entrance into this world. Quentin & Blake will survive without me for a week.

I'm nervous.

But...I know God has a plan in all of this and my nerves are overcome by my excitement.

I'm claiming the promises found in Mark 11:23-24 and Luke 17:6 and asking God to bless my socks off not only during this trip, but during the preparation.

{Baby's First Picture}

2011-08-05T19:25:00.000-05:00

Mallorye & Matt went for her first ultrasound today! There is only ONE Baby Wesley, much to everyone's relief...especially Matt...and everything looks wonderful.

Mallorye is OFFICIALLY 14 weeks and is due January 31st.

She's still been getting sick throughout the day, so Dr. Hasik prescribed some Zofran to help combat that problem. She's also been pretty tired, which is attributed to her thyroid levels fluctuating due to the pregnancy and the fact that she's a little bit anemic. Dr. Hasik is keeping a close eye on her labs, so no worries.

With an official due date comes the big decision. Do I go to Nicaragua as planned with Mal only having 5 weeks to delivery day? Or do I forgo my plans and potentially lose the money that has been put toward my trip?? I'm so torn! I've really been excited to go on my first mission trip, but I'm equally excited to see my first grandbaby be born and not sure I want to risk missing that. Well....any wisdom would be appreciated....especially since I have to make a final decision by Sunday morning.

....and while we're talking babies.....Mallorye is the one of three expectant mommies in our family. Laura, my cousin Colby's wife, is expecting a little girl in November....Aria Beth. And his younger brother Cord & his soon-to-be wife, Morgan, are expecting a baby shortly after Mallorye in February. We have babies running out of our ears!! Next Christmas will be an adventure for sure.

{August Goals}

2011-08-02T16:39:00.002-05:00

With so much to do and accomplish, I decided it was time for a little short-term goal setting. I have a list a mile long of things I need to get done, projects to complete, on an on...so without overwhelming myself too much, here are my 6 goals for the month of August. I'll update at the end of the month as to how well I did.

1. Not spend any additional money (outside of normal grocery bill) for breakfast or lunch during the work week.

2. Keep grocery budget under $250 for the month (this is for a family of 3 that includes a teenage boy)

3. Get my home office functional.

4. Walk 24 miles this month. I know that doesn't seem like much, but I've broke it down to walking 2 miles 3 times a week. I think that's plenty for starters.

5. Keep up with my Project Life picture taking in August.

6. Be sleeping in my own bed nightly by the end of the month.

What are your goals?

{Nicaragua Update}

2011-07-25T16:31:00.002-05:00

It's been a while since I've talked about the upcoming mission trip to Nicaragua, so I thought a little update was in order :)

As of right now, there are 38 people on our team, which is just mind blowing. We have a sense of urgency given all the signs around the world that our Lord's return is very near, and this could be the last opportunity that we have to share with the people of Nicaragua.

Its a bittersweet pill to swallow that Matt & Mallorye have had to withdraw from the trip due to her pregnancy. She'll be too close to her due date to travel such a distance & Matt is going to stay stateside...just in case. Fortunately, another couple have taken their spot so they will be reimbursed most of what they've put out there (they had their entire trip paid for). I'm a little nervous now that I'm the only one from our family going, but I'm sure God knew that way before I did ;)

I'm still planning on going...unless Mallorye's ultrasound puts her due date in January or sooner. I'm on target with how much I've paid in and I have my passport. I will probably borrow luggage from Mallorye and I'm going to see if mom will make me a few skirts when it gets closer to time.

The total cost of the trip is: $1,700.00

Total paid to date: $1,103.67

Balance due: $596.33

I need to have the trip paid for by the end of November which puts it at $149.08 each month. Completely doable! I would like to also take some spending money, but I'll make do if I have to. There are few things I need for the trip, but I'm just praying God provides, as He has done so far.

Ways you can partner with me;

1. Pray for me (that God prepares my heart, for finances, for my family)

2. Pray for our team

3. Pray for my family

4. Financial Support

If you're partnering with me in any of the ways listed, would you leave me a comment, or email me at gingerbales@sbcglobal.net ? Also, if you would like more information about Nicaragua 2011 Mission Trip...just ask! :)

{Things I Must Do}

2011-07-24T23:25:00.002-05:00

Lately my "to do" list has just not been getting done...ha...who am I kidding...I haven't even been writing it down! This week things have GOT to change, so in an effort for accountability--here's things I must get done THIS WEEK!

*finish all the filing in the home office

*CLEAN the home office

*rough edits of Qualls Wedding

*inventory pantry/freezer/regrigerator

*clean refrigerator

*menu planning for next 2 weeks

*create chore chart for Daniel & Caleb

*Flylady notebook for Tiff

*start house lists of things needing done around house

*clean carport & patio

Ok...so who's going to hold me to the fire? I really need to get things done. Wish me luck!

{Sweet 16}

2011-07-23T16:45:00.005-05:00

Blake turned 16 on Monday and we (Blake, Quentin, Me, Matt, & Mallorye) went to TaMolly's for a little birthday celebration and some good food. It also happened to be the night that the "balloon man" was there and he made Blake this awesome birthday hat to wear! I don't know how many balloons he used, but this is just AWESOME! and was a great subsitute for a party until we could do that a few days later.....

Friday we finally were able to really celebrate at a small party held on the church grounds....

Boys are so much different than girls....all he wanted was a bunch of his guy friends to hang out and play laser tag and a cookie cake. No fuss. No decorations. I have to admit, it felt weird for me to give a party for one of my kids with so little preparation, but the clean up was much MUCH better! Quentin grilled burgers and dogs for the guys and I just set the food out :)

{Noah, Jake, Blake, Andy, Brady, Drake, & Chase}

It was also strange to have an all guy party. These guys are crazy, but really good kids. We couldn't ask for a better bunch for him to befriend.

{Josh, affectionately known as JJ by the youth and Blake}

Blake is very blessed to have a youth pastor that truly invests in the lives of his youth. He came by for a bit and had a burger and showed the boys he still has what it takes in a game of laser tag.

{Blake & Noah}
All geared up for a few games of laser tag. Which basically looked like the video game "Modern Warfare" in live action...without the blood of course (unless you count what they lost to the mosquitoes)

I think the guys had a great time....now the fun begins....Blake is an official driver...old enough to date...to get a job....

I wonder if he'll keep his room clean ;)

{12 Weeks}

2011-07-19T21:47:00.003-05:00

The end of the first trimester! And a little bit of a baby bump :)

Mallorye is doing well and is having less and less "sick" days. Her thyroid levels are fluctuating a bit, but I'm sure that's due to the baby taking her medicine. She's been tired some, but just the normal first trimester tired. Her & Matt seem to be way ahead of the ballgame and have started moving furniture to prepare the extra bedroom to become a nursery. She goes back to the doctor in August and will have her first ultrasound which we hope will pin the due date down a little more accurately, although I'm sad that it will be too early to determine a gender. They're on top of that too....and already have names determined.

Olivia Brooke for a girl....

Robert Caden for a boy....

I'm going to do my best to document Mal's pregnancy with at least a monthly picture and you know I'm going to be spoiling this grandbaby ;)

{Walgreens}

2011-06-24T18:31:00.002-05:00

I'm still learning the couponing way of life and today was my first successful Walgreens trip...while I didn't buy a cart full of merchandise (I prefer to start slow and small), I did manage to rack up some pretty good savings;

Transaction #1
(1) Gilette Fusion Power ProGlide Razor sale price $9.89
mfg coupon - $4.00

Out Of Pocket Expense for Transaction #1 = $5.89
Register Rebate - $5.00

Transaction #2
(1) Gilette Fusion Power ProGlide Razor sale price $9.89
mfg coupon - $4.00

Out Of Pocket Expense for Transaction #2 = $5.89
Register Rebate - $5.00

Transaction #3
(1) Gilette Fusion Power ProGlide Razor sale price $9.89
mfg coupon - $4.00

Out Of Pocket Expense for Transaction #3 = $5.89
Register Rebate - $5.00

Transaction #4
(1) Huggies Diaper $8.99
mfg coupon -$2.00

(2) Colgate Sensitive Toothpaste $4.99 each x 2 = $9.98
Walgreens BOGO deal -$4.99
(2) mfg coupon $1.00 each x 2 = -$2.00

(2) Gilette Antiperspirant & Deodorant $4.99 each x 2 = $9.98
Walgreens BOGO 50% off -$2.50
(2) mfg coupon $1.00 each x 2 = -$2.00

(3) Yellow Highlighters on clearance $0.50 each = $1.50 (for filler)

REGISTER REBATES FROM PREVIOUS TRANSACTIONS -$15.00

Out of Pocket Expense for Transaction #4 = $1.96

Total spent out of pocket for all transactions = $19.63
Total savings = $52.79 (by stacking sales, mfg coupons, and RR)

I'm pleased with that :) I know it's not the best, but that's a pretty good deal if ya ask me!

{Nana G}

2011-06-21T16:57:00.002-05:00

....has a nice ring to it, don't ya think?

I certainly hope you like the sound of it because....

I'm going to be a grandmother!!!

Completely unexpected, but very welcome. Matt & Mallorye are awaiting their first little miracle. She has been to her family practice doctor and now, we're just awaiting her OB appointment to find out exactly when this little bundle will arrive. She thinks late January or early February...I'm leaning more toward December. Her HcG levels were very high, which we understand is indicative of either a multiple pregnancy or she's further along than we think.

So...that's the big news. You can follow Mallorye's "mommy diaries" here.

{Coupon Virgin}

2011-05-28T22:36:00.002-05:00

After attending a Basic Couponing class a few months ago, reading multiple couponing blogs, and watching Extreme Couponing on TLC...today I bit the bullet and went on my first coupon excursion. Mallorye went with me and I think we did ok.

I spent the week clipping coupons and scouring the ads to see what the best deals were...

....then in true OCD fashion...I organized my coupon binder :)

I was nervous....I thought I had my ducks in a row...but I didn't count on stores being sold out. Walgreens was out of pretty much everything on my transactions list...so this was all I got and it wasn't just a tremendous savings.

...but I persevered. Fred's was a success!

Overall, I spent roughly $40 today for $80 worth of product. Not quite as good as the people on TV with their 98% savings...but I'm thinking 50% savings on my first trip is pretty good and I'm sure I'll just get better as I learn the ropes.

I'm excited to see what new sales the week brings :)

{Your Opinion Matters}

2011-05-20T13:11:00.003-05:00

Finally...someone has recognized that among National Guard/Reserve deployments, that the spouses are also struggling to readjust. Having been through two deployments, I definitely feel that often times, the spouses are falling through the cracks. There are programs to support the soldier, the children, and family in general...but nothing for the spouses specifically. The programs that are in place aren't cutting it.

Well...insert Cynthia. She's a doctoral candidate in clinical psychology at the University of Hawaii's Department of Psychology and the principle investigator for a new study that focuses on post-deployment experiences of National Guard and Army Reserve spouses. She acknowledges that research is lacking for spouses of National Guard/Reserve soldiers and how post deployment marital distress and behavioral health is affecting the spouses. I'm excited! This study could be extremely beneficial in making our lawmakers and military officials aware that there is a gap in support. I believe that if you want a strong soldier, healthy in body & mind, then he needs a strong family and that starts with the spouse.

Please...please...please...take the time to take Cynthia's survey. It's completely anonymous and she needs your honesty. Check it out here.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-09T19:16:00.002-05:00

One of the greatest joys of my life is definitely my children....it took me a while to find my wings as a mother, but once I did, I embraced it wholeheartedly.

Mothering takes creativity...each child is different and requires a completely different approach.

Mallorye, now married, has always been my compassionate one...more concerned about everyone around her than her own self. As an adult, she's become one of my best friends and is quick to pick up on when things are off with her momma...lol. She is such an encourager and often surprises me with a card on a little "happy" to cheer me up.

Blake is definitely my "lover of life." He likes to be busy and often states that he's "bored." Unfortunately, cleaning his room is not his idea of a cure for boredom...lol. I'm enjoying watching Blake develop into his own person and to see how his integrity is really starting to develop.

I was so blessed to have both of my children with me at church on Mother's Day, along with my son-in-law. I love that we serve at the same church and that my daughter & son-in-law choose to be a part of the small group that my husband and I teach. How awesome is that?!

Happy Mother's Day everyone!

{Where Has The Time Gone?}

2011-05-01T14:44:00.005-05:00

Wow....two months have passed since I've written a blog. There is no way I can completely recap the past few months, but I'll try to hit a few highlights.

First, the last time I wrote on the blog I was facing some big things;

(1) My mom had her PET scan come back irregular and had to have some follow up testing done. Mom is 4 years in remission from colorectal cancer and we really don't want any relapses (who does?) I don't have to tell you, that I was fearful, but praise God! her follow up tests came back all clear and we are still cancer free :)

(2) My best friend from high school and I were toying with the idea of starting our own photography business...that was 2 months ago....since then, we've shot a wedding, booked 3 additional weddings, & have 5 other family/children bookings. We also have a website and we're awaiting the arrival of our business cards. We're having a blast offering cutting edge photography and capturing the personality of our clents. Check us out at BRAG Photography! Just don't be too hard on us...we're still learning :)

I also left my job of 12 years to begin a new adventure. This was such an agonizing decision for me. I loved the people I worked for and with, but knew that God was calling me to move. He opened a door for me in the same line of work, but with an added bonus...I would also have an opportunity to work with Camp Hope, a treatment facility for women struggling with addictions. What an amazing privilege! I'm loving the new job and my stress level has decreased dramatically. I miss the people I worked with, but I'm making new friends..new relationships...and being obedient to God.

Blake finished up track season as 10th in District in the High Jump and 3rd in the Mile Relay.

{Blake competing in the High Jump at PHS}

We celebrated Easter in the rain...and little Daniel was saved on Easter morning. Praise the Lord!

{Caleb hunting Easter eggs in the rain...don't ya love his umbrella set up?}

And speaking of rain...it has rained her for the past week and more is on its way. My mom lives in the neighboring town of Pocahontas, which has been completely isolated by the floods. The waters are over the doors of the local WalMart and stretches 5 miles outside of the river (Black River). The Black River is considered flood stage at 19' and today it reached 29'...it just blows my mind. I have never seen anything like it. Please pray for our area....Arkansas was also hit with devastating tornadoes just before the floods began. It's devastating...absolutely devastating.

{Elnora Free Will Baptist Church...this is my grandma's church)}

So...that's the quick update...now to see if I can stay up to date ;)

Being Still....

2011-03-08T09:48:00.001-06:00

That pretty much sums it up.

The end of February and first of March have proved to be challenging, but I'm waiting...believing...being quiet...and still...before my God.

{Project Life...Week 6}

2011-02-17T20:45:00.004-06:00

It's that time again...Project Life Tuesday...on Thursday..because I'm so not with it this week. AND..I don't have any pictures of my layouts because...well...I don't have them done..yet...but I do have the pictures, so that's a start!

Sunday 02-06
Celebrating the Super Bowl with our Small Group....the guys yelled at the television while the girls played cards...These are the newlywed/engaged girls...Brittany, Mallorye, & Melissa. We love our small group and are enjoying just doing life with these people.

Monday 02-07
Freshman night at Doc Paynter's Court. Blake's girlfriend, Taylor, is a Jr. High Cheerleader...these girls did a great job cheering our boys on this year to a Conference Championship.

Tuesday 02-08
I voted "YES" today for the millage increase for the Paragould School District...money that will help build a new school and improve some of the older facilities.

Wednesday 02-09
Snow Day #3...Mallorye enjoyed catching snow flakes, while Blake tried to fake a snow angel with a broom (lol)...Matt, Mal, & Luke came down later and pegged our windows with snowballs. All in all....a great snow day!

Thursday 02-10
A crock-pot full of homemade stew is just what the doctor ordered for the sickness going around in our house.

Friday 02-11
No Picture Today....

Quentin took Blake to the Arkansas Sportshow and I'm using this as a backdrop for their tickets.

Saturday 02-12
View from The Austin Hotel in Hot Springs, AR

Me, Quentin, Matt, & Mallorye went to Hot Springs to watch the Mrs. Arkansas Pageant...Mal is considering competing next year and we thought Matt should see what he was getting into...lol.

So, hopefully I will get back on track next week and be on time!

As always, there is some creative people out there...so go check them out on Jessica's blog...right here!

{Project Life...Week 5}

2011-02-10T09:25:00.002-06:00

I'm a few days late posting, but I've been busy with life this week and for that I won't apologize :) Anywho...better late than never...Week 5 of Project Life!

Left side of my layout...

....and the right side.
Exciting, I know. Now for the good stuff. The daily pictures...that's really what you want to see anyway. (insert drum roll)

Sunday 01-30
I've mentioned that we host small group (Life Group) in our home every Sunday night...the children go to Mallorye & Matt's house with one adult and I try to have an activity for them to do that goes along with the devotional that they will be going over. The kids seem to really enjoy it and it makes it pretty easy on the adult leader. I love that we're ministering to both the adults in our group...and their children.

Monday 01-31
Blake had a ballgame tonight...not just any ballgame....but a game against crosstown rival Greene County Tech. These games are always intense, but this time our boys had something to prove...GCT triumphed in an earlier game in the season, but not tonight! PJHS won this round 44-26 maintaining bragging rights!

Tuesday 02-01
I was scheduled to work late today, so Mal skipped class to come and work on our Project Life albums before I went to work. I normally wouldn't encourage skipping class, but she wasn't going to miss anything this particular day and I kinda like hanging out with my daughter :)

Wednesday 02-02
I receive a text reminder every month to perform my monthly breast self-exam...they are always so light-hearted and funny and this one was soooo cute!

Thursday 02-03
My desk at work. This is where I spend most of my time it seems. You'll notice my phone and water bottle are in easy reach and beside my phone is my scripture memory cards.

Friday 02-04
...and this is where I live. An aerial view of my neighborhood courtesy of Google.
We really enjoy our neighborhood...it's quiet (for the most part), a great neighborhood to take evening walks, it's close to pretty much everything, and we live just a few houses down from Matt & Mallorye (which I think is pretty wonderful).

Saturday 02-05
I spent the day with a kindred spirit...my friend Kellie. We met back in 2002 through an online group and have been friends ever since...we share a love for scrapbooking, singing, and most importantly God. I always leave Kellie's refreshed and wondering why we don't get together more often. Her and her husband, Terry, are the real deal and I love them :)

So, 5 weeks of documenting my daily life...I think it's almost a habit!

If you enjoy checking out my pictures, I bet you'd like others too...so go to Jessica's blog and check out other Project Lifers.

{2011 Project Life...Week 4}

2011-02-01T10:40:00.007-06:00

Week 4 of Project Life and I'm still lovin' it....and still caught up! It's challenging to come up with a new picture every day, but I'm enjoying it. This week, I had a day that was exceptionally picture heavy...so, what to do...add an insert :) And once again I'm linking up with Jessica for Project LIfe Tuesday...check it out by clicking the button above and see all the creative people out there...there's a bunch!!

This is the left side of my layout...

...and the right side...

the first side of my insert.....

....and the flip side...

Now for the POTD's....

Sunday 1-23
Lunch at TaMolly's with friends from church...The Grahams, The Qualls, and the Wesleys

Monday 1-24
Blake had a ballgame against Batesville at home...he had quite a fan club tonight with about 13 people coming to watch him play...we won :)

Tuesday 1-25
I finally finished editing some wedding pictures I had taken back in the fall...it's a good thing the bride and groom were patient! This is the first wedding I've photographed in a LONG time and it was definitely a learning experience.

Wednesday 1-26
Bethany, my coworkers daughter, came to visit the office today. She was in a great mood and those pigtails...is there anything sweeter?! I think not!

Thursday 1-27
Now that Mal has moved out, I've started the process of turning her bedroom into my craft room...starting with paint (I cannot handle the pink)...This was the 2nd sample Quentin had painted and I still haven't found the color I want. Thank goodness for Valspar's $3.00 samples!

Friday 1-28
Game night with Mallorye & Matt...I whipped everyones tails at a game of GOLF.

Saturday 1-29
We spent the day at mom & Jack's where Blake enjoyed riding the 4-wheeler...

So, how was your week? Did you capture any memories?

{All About Basketball}

2011-01-29T00:20:00.003-06:00

I'm sitting here after midnight, wide awake, and thinking about all the projects that I have looming....but this is basketball season...and life is mainly consumed by practice schedules, traveling across NE Arkansas, ballgames, and more...but I wouldn't have it any other way.

Blake has really shined this year and has been the leading scorer on many games. At 6'4" he's proving to be a force to be reckoned with. He's an incredible defensive player with arms that seem to reach for miles and pick off passes easily. It has just been amazing to watch him this year...and every game he gets a little bit better.

He's also had quite the fan base this year and most games he has at least 5 or 6 people that have come to watch him and at times as many as 15. I know that has to make him feel good to see all these people in the stands cheering him on.

The fan club.....mostly family...or those that might as well be :)

Blake getting the ball in bounds....

Blake (24), Chase (34), and Dylan (22)...going for the defensive trap. These boys do a phenomenal job of pressing the other team and trapping them.

Love his intensity.....

...it's about teamwork

Blake gets to go to the free throw line quite a bit...and has a decent percentage. I tell him all the time...these are the gimme shots...always the same distance...always undefended...and always should result in points on the board...{he laughs at me}

one of my favorite pictures.....

The season is quickly coming to an end....only 4 more games! I can't believe it's almost over. Right now the boys are sitting 1st in conference with an 8-1 conference record and an overall record of 17-4. Monday they face they're rival and toughest competition....and we're hoping for great things :) It will be an intense game...but I think we're ready.

So...for a few more weeks....it's all about basketball!

{Project Life 2011...Week 3}

2011-01-25T06:30:00.005-06:00

Ahhhh...week 3 of Project Life.

I'm not as happy with my photos this week...they lack creativity...but..I'm pleased that I'm still caught up and haven't given up :)

I'm also really enjoying seeing others Project Life albums and being inspired by them...so far this experience has been very rewarding and inspirational...Check out more Project Life inspiration at Jessica's blog.

Sunday January 16: We started a small group in our home & have been overwhelmed at the response. We thought we would start with just a few people...but God had other plans and we started with 10. These are the newlyweds of the group...The Wesleys & The Lawrences.

Monday January 17: Ugh...late for work! I'm supposed to be there at 7am, but just couldn't get motivated this morning...

Tuesday January 18: I took Bessie to the "doctor"...my dash instruments had quit working (again), I needed new headlight assemblies, and the driver side window decided it didn't want to roll down anymore...I am ready for a new car!

Wednesday January 19: Quentin carrying in our provisions for the "big snow storm" that is coming later that night. Blake was home sick, so we stayed in from church.

Thursday January 20: "The Big Snow Storm"...lol...we got maybe 3" of snow, but that was enough to close school for 2 days. This was taken at Reynolds Park Lake late afternoon.

Friday January 21: Blake & Josh (our youth pastor) enjoying a hockey game in Memphis. This was Quentin & Blake's first time to go see a hockey game and they loved it! They sat 3rd row from the glass and were super excited when a fight broke out right in front of them. Men!

Saturday January 22: Misty & London came by to visit for a little while tonight. Isn't London just the cheesiest?! I love this family and have missed getting to hang out with them the past few months, so this was a very welcome treat.

Another exciting week in the life of the Bales' family....I have a couple posts I'm working on for later this week...so stay tuned :)

{2011 Project Life...Week 2}

2011-01-15T03:59:00.008-06:00

Week 2 of Project Life and so far I'm up to date with my pictures, journaling, scrapbook, and blog...woo hoo!! I'm linking up again over at Mom Creative, as a way of staying motivated and accountable to see this through to the end of the year. So, enjoy my week in pictures and go check out some of the other creativeness here at Project Life Tuesday.

January 8: I have a thing...ok, it's an OCD thing...about having an even number of glasses. I cannot stand for thier to be a mismatch. The glasses I had were very thin and kept breaking, thus driving me crazy. For Christmas I asked for glasses. My husband bought me a set. My daughter bought me a set. My sister bought me a set. They all thought this was hilarious and that there was no way I would fit them all into my cabinet. SURPRISE! I spent this morning rearranging until I got them all in the cabinet..neat...organized..just the way I like it.

January 9: Blake & I attended an informational meeting about the 2011 Nicaragua Mission Trip. We both really want to go, but it will take huge sacrifice on our budget and family. The trip is December 15-22, so we would most likely miss out on some holiday happenings, but I'm certain God has something bigger in store for us.

January 10: SNOW DAY! Living in Arkansas, we don't see many of these, and this was only 3 inches, but enough to close school for the day. I wasn't feeling very well, so I didn't play in it (just went out to take some pictures) and we didn't have our Annual Bales' Blizzard Run...maybe we'll be blessed with another snow before the winter is over.

January 11: My wonderful husband made me go to the doctor today. I'm a big baby and hate taking meds and going to the doctor. They did some bloodwork and have me on steroids for 20 days until they determine the cause of my muscle/joint pain....I think I liked it better when I was ignoring the symptoms...lol.

January 12: Lunch date with my daughter, Mallorye, at Simpkins Family Buffet. Mal has a really hectic and crazy schedule this semester, so I treasure any time I get to spend with her. I'm really loving this stage of life....seeing my daughter become my best friend and watching her as a college student and wife.

January 13: We travelled to Wynne to watch Blake's basketball game and witnessed this breathtaking sunset. I never want to take God's masterpieces for granted.

January 14: Blake took his free skip day today and hung out with dad...they also went and took the driving portion of his driver's test. He passed! Look out world...here comes Blake.

January 15: As we do every year, me and Mallorye curled up on the couch to watch the annual Miss America Pageant....with score sheets and pens in hand, we compete to see who can come up with the winners and how close we are. We were pleased to see our home state of Arkansas come up with 1st Runner Up and was surprised that Hawaii didn't take home the crown, but what an incredible honor for Nebraska....crowned the 90th Miss America and at age 17...yes, I said 17 (she hasn't even graduated high school), she is the youngest EVER Miss America.

And there you have it....Week 2 of a life in the Bales'.

{Snow Day}

2011-01-10T18:48:00.005-06:00

Well...I had planned to go to the doctor today (I have some unexplained edema & hip pain), however, the doctor's office was closed due to the unexpected Snow Day! It wasn't alot of snow, but when you live in the South...every inch is precious...so I took advantage of being home and snapped some pictures of my family playing in the snow...even if I couldn't play too, it was a joy to see them laughing and enjoying themselves.

1924 Hillcrest

Our home ....the vehicles stayed right there most of the day (Quentin did have to go to Wal-Mart for groceries, since I never made it over the weekend...he's a great husband)

Almost 3 inches...measured by my homemade Snow Meter I received from mom at Christmas...who knew we'd get a chance to use it this year??

The temperature never reached above freezing today and was 27 degrees when I woke up...the forecast for the week doesn't look much better and will actually dip down into the teens later this week...have I ever mentioned that I prefer temps around 70??

Luke didn't know quite what to make of the snow...he was high stepping it and running around trying to lick it all up. It was hilarious to watch and made for great entertainment.

Matt caught Mallorye off guard.....

...and threw her down to the snow, while Luke investigated ....

...then Luke decided this looked like fun and he & Matt rolled Mal around in the frigid snow...

....finally the onslaught subsided...after Mal was completely covered with snow...

....ahhh, but love covers a multitude of sins.

Matt & Mallorye and their first Snow Day as The Wesleys.

Mallorye thinking about pegging someone with a snow ball I'm sure...she had a rough night and I was so glad that she felt better this afternoon, so she could enjoy the snow before it all disappeared.

Blake peeking in the window...

....and being all boy

Me & Quentin (yes, I realize I look horrible) pausing for a brief photo op...

...and to end a wonderful afternoon...Hot Chocolate complete with marshmallows.

I couldn't think of a better afternoon. Spending time with my family is definitely the highlight of any day...especially a Snow Day!

{It's A Faith Thing}

2011-01-09T15:03:00.002-06:00

Our church has partnered with the Voice of Hope Ministries over the past two years in spreading the gospel to the Nicaraguan people. Both of my children, Mallorye & Blake, had the privilege to go on the initial missionary trip in 2009 and now our church is preparing for the 3rd missionary trip to this region in December 2011.

I have had a desire to participate in a foreign mission for several years, but the door has never really opened for me to be able to go. I'm earnestly praying that God open this door for the 2011 trip. I'm not so sure that it is as much about what I can bring to Nicaragua, as it is that I feel God has something to show me through this trip and the preparations of going.

It will have to be a God thing.

For one, I'm terrified of sharing the gospel. I'm always afraid that I will botch the plan of salvation somehow and leave the person with more questions than answers.

Also, I really wanted to do this as a family, but Quentin doesn't share the same desire and passion...which is fine...but I need him to be on board with me going...and Blake...because this will take HUGE sacrifices for our family.

Then there's the cost.

It's $1700 per person...that's $3400 for me & Blake to be able to go...or $300 a month. We have 3 weeks to decide...for God to reveal with complete certainty, His will regarding this trip. 3 weeks to come up with the initial deposit of $150 each. I want to follow God and not get caught up in all the things that seem impossible....

so...I'm praying...

for peace...for God's will...for faith.

That's really where it's at...

do I have the faith to be obedient...even when it doesn't make sense to me...or to those around me...when I know the only way it will happen is if God takes care of it.

It's a faith thing!

Will you pray with me?

{Self Control}

2011-01-08T20:43:00.002-06:00

.....I haven't had a soda in 6 days :)

...........I've limited my sugar, although I haven't eliminated it

...today, I allowed myself one soda with dinner

........and tonight...I was craving a Blizzard

...hubby went to Dairy Queen and bought me a small

..........& guess what??

...I only ate 1/2 of it...I was able to stop and put the rest in the freezer

.....people, this is HUGE for me

...a small step in the direction of self control

{2011 Project Life...Week 1} & a winner :)

2011-01-08T08:45:00.005-06:00

First things first...we have a winner for the giveaway!! Woo Hoo!! Going about it the old-fashioned way, names were written on a piece of paper, folded, and placed in a basket, the lucky winner that was randomly drawn is......Erika! Congratulations...message me your info and I will get the book headed your way. Enjoy!

I failed miserably at my attempt at a Picture A Day last year...I really think it had to do with me trying to start on our Anniversary in August. My brain just doesn't work that way. So...I'm trying again and this time, beginning on January 1. I'm also only going to recap on here once a week instead of trying to do that daily and my daughter is joining in on the fun and we're meeting once a week to put our layouts together for the week. Fun!!

The cabins at the Lake Norfork River Resort....we spent the weekend here for a Military Marriage Retreat sponsored by our church, Southside Community.

Quentin, Pat, Josh, Me, Joann (holding Pixie) & Karla

This was our last morning of the retreat. We had a wonderful time worshipping via YouTube...can't say I've ever done that, but it worked and it was amazing. Such an incredible weekend of fellowship & reconnecting as a couple.

We traveled to Blytheville for Blake's basketball game...the boys started slow, but ended up winning 43-21. Blake had 8 points and a bunch of assists, steals, & rebounds.

Sugar Bowl....We stayed home and watched Arkansas play Ohio in the Sugar Bowl at New Orleans. We had a few missed opportunities and couldn't quite come up with a win, but I'm still cheering on my Hogs.

Ashamedly, this was the first Wednesday night service I've attended in a while.
The church is reading through the book of Acts and on Wednesday's they're digging deeper into each chapter, each verse.

Quentin traveled with his brother, Warren, to Union City to look at guns today. He left me the sweetest note (leave the dishes and I will do them). I write him letters weekly, but getting a note from him is very rare, so I treasure everyone I get.

Date Night! I really meant to get a picture of me and Q at Olive Garden, but I brought the camera without an SD card...ugh! We had a wonderful dinner courtesy of a gift card from my Aunt Liz and then went to Barnes & Noble (our fave pastime) where I purchased The Chronicles of Narnia (I've never read these books!). Simple pleasures that I don't take for granted having been through two deployments.

There ya have it....the first week of 2011 in the life of the Bales' Pretty exciting, huh?! Seriously, I'm looking forward to capturing the everyday moments this year for my Project Life album. If you have no idea what I'm talking about...click the link on my sidebar :)

{Update on Giveaway}

2011-01-06T15:39:00.002-06:00

I will be drawing tomorrow (from those who have messaged me on Facebook and those that have commented here) ...if you want a FREE copy of Tour of Duty, you need to comment tonight :) and I will announce a winner tomorrow....

....don't miss your chance to win :)

{Military Marriage Retreat}

2011-01-05T22:22:00.005-06:00

This past weekend, we had the opportunity to go to a marriage retreat for military families in our church, sponsored by our church, paid for by our church....I couldn't imagine passing up this chance for a weekend away. We left on New Years Eve at lunch...I have to tell you, that was tough...to know that I would be away from my children for the first time on the 1st day of the new year, but I also knew that Quentin and I would come back a better couple and parents for having went...so I packed our bags and we arrived at the Norfork River Trout Resort Friday afternoon and settled into our 3 bedroom cabin (with our own bathroom in each bedroom).

Our cabin overlooked the river and was just the quaintest thing! Seriously, I did not want to leave this place!

The view from our balcony...

We had the absolute best time....studying God's word and hearing what He has to say about communication, expectations, and even how to handle our anger. There was only two other couples, so our group sessions were very intimate, which enabled us to be transparent. We also had communication building exercises that we did on our own...Quentin and I learned alot about each other in these two days...lol.

Of course no church retreat is complete without some great food...and man, did we ever eat some great food. We ate like Kings & Queens and I'm pretty sure I gained a few more pounds..Pat was the Grillmaster :)

Doesn't that make you hungry??

There was also plenty of games...we played WII, Apples to Apples, and a new card game (new to us anyway) called Golf. We were quite the competitive bunch and sadly I did not win any games...ok, I take that back...I beat Karla at WII Tennis...lol,

Me and Quentin on the last day....

Josh & Karla.....Josh served with Quentin in Iraq in 2006-07 and in this last deployment to Afghanistan in 2009-10

Our wonderful hosts...Pat & Joann...and of course Pixie. This couple really know how to make you feel like you're the only person that matters and they have a heart for God that I rarely see. They flesh out their faith every day and infuse God in every aspect of their life.

A weekend much needed...more than I realized.

A final group shot...

Quentin, Pat, Josh

Ginger, Joann (holding Pixie), Karla

Friends, Fellowship, Food, Faith....I really can't think of a better way to bring in the New Year.

{Book Review & Giveaway}

2010-12-29T20:50:00.003-06:00

The past few weeks I've had the privilege to work through a new Bible study geared toward military wives. Sara Horn hits the nail on the head with her new book, "Tour of Duty...Preparing Our Hearts For Deployment."

One of the things that I loved about this study was the real-life excerpts from her life that she shared at the beginning of each chapter. Seeing her life mirror aspects of mine, made me want to read more because I knew that she was speaking from experience and a place that made us kindred spirits. She wasn't afraid to tackle some of the emotions and hidden thoughts that torment military wives during deployments....but she didn't stop there. In 7 weeks, she armed me with God's truths and scripture to combat these emotions and walked me through what she calls the "7 Emotional and Spiritual Stages of Deployment."

I definitely feel more prepared to handle the next deployment that comes our way and only wish I had this in my hand a year ago. I'm grateful to add this to my arsenal to combat Satan's lies and to come through the next deployment stronger and healthier.

If you're a military wife....you need this study. If you know a military wife....get this book for her. As a matter of fact, if you'd like this book for yourself or perhaps someone you know that fights the home front war, then leave me a comment. I will randomly select someone to receive this book FREE :) So, leave a comment. Gather up your girlfriends. Start a Bible study group...and get ready to have your socks blessed off.

Be sure to check out Sara on her personal website and at the website she founded for military wives, Wives of Faith.

{Merry Christmas 2010}

2010-12-22T14:56:00.003-06:00

As everyone knows who reads this blog...it has been one heck of a year around here...thus I haven't even bought a Christmas card, so this shall be it :) Consider it a Christmas letter and card all rolled into one....

Quentin's unit was mobilized in 2009 and left for Afghanistan in January 2010. They did a phenomenal job clearing the roads and had the best det-to-find ratio of any unit past or present and ZERO fatalities. They ALL returned in November with a very low number of injuries. Since being home, Quentin has went deer hunting a few times, duck hunting, and numerous basketball games....he even danced his baby girl down the aisle as he gave her away on her wedding day. We took a couple's trip to Kansas City the weekend before the wedding where he got to watch his team the Denver Broncos take on the Kansas City Chiefs.

Mallorye has been a busy beaver!! She competed in the Miss Teen USA Arkansas pageant in January, graduated high school in May, started college on a full tuition scholarship in August, bought a house in September, started a new job somewhere in there, and got married (to Matt...a pretty awesome addition to the family) in December!! I've been so proud of how well she has juggled all the new roles that she has and I'm excited to see her blossom in this new chapter of life.

Blake killed yet another deer this season, keeping our freezer stocked. He's decided to focus only on basketball and has really excelled the past few games, averaging around 13 points a game. School is going well for him with all A's (with the exception of a B in Geometry) and for the first time....zero absences! and....he has a girlfriend...surprise..surprise. Actually, she's a very sweet girl and was brave enough to come hang out at our house last Friday.

I've stayed busy this year planning a wedding and sending letters to Afghanistan and running Blake here and there and everywhere. I'm still singing in the Praise Team at church and lovin' it....still writing for Army Wife Magazine and lovin' it.....still burning the candle at both ends and....oh never mind....

One things for sure....we have been very blessed this year and are looking forward to an incredible 2011....so from the Bales' Family.....

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Family Picture taken in January the day Quentin deployed

{Goal Setting}

2010-12-17T09:01:00.003-06:00

With January right around the corner, I've been thinking about the areas in my life that I really want to work on. One of these is in the area of spiritual discipline. I consider myself a good person and I'm a Christian...no doubt about that...however, I falter with some of the basics of spiritual discipline. This year I really desire to draw closer to God and create the habit of some of these basics...not as a way to check things off of a list...but because I know these disciplines draw me closer to God...disciplines such as; reading my Bible EVERY day, tithing, daily prayer (the real, conversation kind), and scripture memory.

Well, what do you know? One of my spiritual mentors from afar is offering a neat tool to help in scripture memory, along with accountability via her blog. I'm all about a crafty tool, that's cute and useful, so you can bet I jumped on this opportunity!! Beth Moore is an incredible godly woman that has a heart for women. Her blog is full of encouragement, challenges, and accountability...check it out here. While you're there, check out the Siesta Spiral to help memorize scripture in 2011.

{Real Me...Inside My Purse}

2010-12-16T19:33:00.002-06:00

I mean, really...who doesn't want to know what's inside my purse?? Ok, so actually this question was posed to someone else and I just borrowed it because I didn't have much to blog about today....so...for those inquiring minds (or those who have nothing better to read)...here is what is inside my purse;

*my wallet
*thank you tag from Mallorye's wedding cookies
*rhinestone barrettes that I purchased for Mallorye's wedding...but didn't wear
*orange highlighter x2
*yellow highlighter
*pens x7 (in red, blue, & black)
*bobby pins
*ponytail holder....a girl never knows
*cell phone charger
*Victoria Secrets Beauty Rush Juiced Berry lotion (ok...so I borrowed this from Mal)
*paper clip
*kleenex
*insurance receipt of payment
*deposit receipts x3
*Bath & Body Warm Vanilla Sugar lotion
*antibacterial hand gel x2 (I'm really not a germ freak, so not sure why I have 2)
*Victoria Secrets Beauty Rush lip gloss (ok...I absolutely LOVE this stuff)
*carmex (it's winter...enough said)
*Pizza Inn coupons
*calculator
*Advil

I really carry a small purse, so I was amazed that all this stuff was in there!! So, what random things are in your purse??

{10 Days}

2010-12-15T15:10:00.002-06:00

Oh my!! Has anyone else realized that it's only 10 days until Christmas morning?!

I am sooooooo behind...I have two presents bought...count 'em...two. One for Mallorye and one for Blake. Every year I vow to be finished by November 1st and every year it gets later and later before I'm finished...and this year, before I even began.

I would love to say that I have a plan.

But...I don't.

I have no idea what I'm getting anyone. Heck, I don't even really know who I'm buying for this year. All I know is that I'm paring down significantly this year.

I haven't sent a single Christmas card and at this point, I'm thinking that it's pointless. And...too much stress. I thought about a New Year letter, but decided that I'm just going to let it go.

I do have a tree up...thanks to my kiddos. They put the tree up the weekend Quentin & I were at Kansas City for the Chiefs vs. Bronco's game. It is literally the only hint of Christmas in my entire house. For those that know me, you know this is an oddity. This is my favorite season, but with the end of the deployment and the wedding and all the things in between...I just have not had time.

I do, however, feel very blessed and the spirit of Christmas has not been lost in the chaos.

So...there is less presents...less decorations...less stress...

but...

there is more Christ...and that's what it's all about!

{Meet The Wesleys}

2010-12-14T09:25:00.004-06:00

This past Saturday was a bittersweet day for me....I thought I was ready, but I bawled like a big baby as I watched my baby girl emerge in a gown of white and transform into a beautiful woman...a bride...a wife. In spite of the freezing temps outside and the rain falling from the clouds, the day was beautiful as this amazing young couple vowed their love and commitment to one another and began their life journey...together.

One of my favorite bridal pictures of Mallorye...stunning!

I love this picture....so sweet and pure.

Introducing.... Mr. & Mrs. Matt Wesley

Mallorye had the absolute best bridesmaids...these girls always had a smile on their face...even through some pretty tough circumstances at times...and they made everyone feel special. This is one of the ring bearers, my nephew, Caleb...being kissed by Hailey and Adrienne, while Chelsea and Kathryn look on.

Chelsea and Kathryn's turn to kiss a ring bearer...Brendan...wonder if they think it will bring them good luck?? Hmmmm....

Mallorye dancing with her daddy for the last time as Mallorye Bales....yes, I totally lost it at this point, but it was definitely worth the tears. A rare tender moment shared by those two.

Cutting of the cake with a portion of their Dr. Suess vows inscribed on a layer...this was definitely not your typical wedding. The exchange of rings was probably the only traditional element. Thier vows were Dr. Suess and hilarious...much needed after that daddy/daughter dance and Mallorye came in to Butterfly Kisses. It was a unique wedding infused with their personality...the way it should be.

So...now we begin a new chapter of our lives. Mallorye as a wife. A son-in-law. Two families intertwined with a lifetime of love.

{December 1st}

2010-12-01T09:44:00.002-06:00

Wow...there are so many thoughts swirling around in my head.

Thoughts of ....

...my daughter is getting married in 10 days. I need to finish the wedding programs. I need to finish paying for the cake and flowers. For Heaven's sake...I need shoes and Blake needs pants!

...my husband has been home for almost a month! In some ways it feels like he never left and we've settled into our pattern...in others, it feels like we'll never bridge the gap of time elapsed.

...Christmas is in 24 days!! I have two presents bought. TWO. AND...my tree isn't up, nor is it even out of storage. Oh my....

...although I have a ton going on and my stress level is pretty much peaked out...my husband and I are going out of town this weekend....lol. Yes. You can laugh. We're going to Kansas City to watch the Broncos vs. Chiefs game :) {Yes, Meredith..I'm cheering on the Broncos} We're going with another couple from our church and I'm sure it will be just the thing I need to relax before the last week before the wedding.

Ok...enough blogging. Time to get back to my ever growing "to do" list!

10 on the 10th

2010-11-10T09:04:00.003-06:00

I haven't done this in a while, but seeing as it's the last one for a while hosted by Meredith...I thought I'd join in :)

10 Things I Really Must Do This Week

Declutter my blogroll (this has been bugging me for a while)
Finish writing my AWM article (it's due Friday)
Mail some Thank You's that are way overdue!
Finish reading "God Strong" (we're supposed to wrap up this week)
Wrap Mallorye's Christmas Shower gifts (the shower is Saturday)
Make Christmas Letter list (I'm scaling down this year...way down)
Write our Christmas Letter
Update my Dayplanner
Update Matt & Mal's scrapbook (really need this done by the shower)
Catch up Project Life (who knew taking a photo a day would be so complicated)

Ok...looking at my list, I realize I'm a little ambitious, but it's good to have a goal...right?

All Is Right In The World Again

2010-11-07T09:17:00.000-06:00

Saturday, November 6th. The day I have been holding my breath for...the day I have been anticipating for the past year. My soldier finally came home!

Me, Blake, & Mallorye braving the very cold temps while we patiently wait for the buses to roll in. They brought four buses carrying our soldiers to the Arkansas State University Football Stadium where a crowd of nearly 500 people awaited them. The streets were lined with people waving flags and banners and yellow ribbons were tied to street signs, light poles, and doors.

Me, Melissa Brown, & Jamie Clark...a few of the Army wives that made the past year a little more fun and a whole lot more bearable. I couldn't have made it through without my support system.

Matt & Mallorye....this was Matt's first experience with deployment and I'm so glad that Mal has had him to lean on this past year.

At this point, the guys have been on Caraway for over 10 minutes...I can hear the sirens of the police that are escorting them, but I still can't see the buses. I'm holding back tears, which everyone finds amusing and getting more anxious by the second.

The First Kiss

There is nothing that can describe that feeling of having your soldiers arms around you and embracing for that long awaited first kiss. This man completes me...is a part of me...and when he's not here a huge part of me is missing. ...and yea...at this point the tears are flowing and I don't care. My soldier is home and all is right in my world.

Thank you! To everyone who prayed for my husband and my family over the past year!!

{breathing}

2010-11-02T09:03:00.003-05:00

...finally

......I can breathe a huge sigh of relief

..I can quit sleeping with my cell phone under my pillow

.....or racing to the phone every time it rings

My soldier is back on US soil and it does this heart good!

{1037th RCC Welcome Home Ceremony at Camp Shelby, MS}

...just a few more days until the REAL Welcome Home in Arkansas with family & friends & huge hugs & sloppy kisses & of course laughter followed by crocodile tears.

{and yes, my soldier is in that sea of ACU's somewhere}

Someone's A Year Older....

2010-10-05T09:15:00.002-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY AMAZING HUSBAND!

You are an amazing husband and father. I love that we have this word all to ourselves, well besides the people that invented it and shared it with us :) SHMILY.

I love that you're always asking about the kids and your parents and the church...everyone...we're supposed to be worrying about you, not the other way around.

You have the most incredible smile. It's probably the thing I first fell in love with and it can instantly make me feel better.

I absolutely love the way that I fit right in that nook in your arm...like it was made just for
me...I miss that spot.

I giggle when I think about you talking to yourself...quizzing me on the latest movie...& even your snoring...because they are all things that make you..you.

I love that in just a few weeks, I will get to see you and celebrate you...we don't need a birthday for that...it's been way too long since I've seen your face and heard your voice and just got to snuggle up on the couch with you.

I love you!

And I hope that even though you're in the middle of Afghanistan that you'll still find a way to celebrate and know that I'm thinking of you today....

and always!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

I LOVE YOU!

SHMILY :)

10 on the 10th

2010-09-10T08:40:00.005-05:00

I thought I would finally jump back in with Meredith's challenge to post 10 things on the 10th of the month.

In remembrance of 9/11, I thought I would post 10 things I remember about that day;

1. I was at work when the announcement came over the radio. We all went upstairs to watch the horror on the television. It was unbelievable.

2. Shortly after the 2nd tower fell, I went to my children's school and picked them up. We went home where we watched the news coverage and sobbed in each others arms. We stayed there for 3 days while I tried to explain to our children as best I could what was going on, while we watched Quentin get his military gear together for possible mobilization as every unit was on alert.

3. I remember knowing that this event would forever change America.

4. I also remember thinking..."my husband is going to have to go to war." This was a profound thought considering he is National Guard and up to this point, they mainly took care of natural disasters, but somehow I knew. I had that feeling in the pit of my stomach.

5. I remember the eery silence of the skies as all air traffic was halted across the world.

6. Cell phones were jammed and it was hard to get through to family, but I kept trying, because I wanted them to know I loved them.

7. My Uncle Rudy was at the Pentagon & it took him 4 days to get out of DC and home to us. 4 agonizing days of worry.

8. Prayer vigils quickly popped up all over the world and our church was no different. I remember praying like I never had before for our nation that was apparently under attack. Praying for the safety of all of us, for our military, our President, for those that lost loved ones in this attack....praying desperately and fervently.

9. I remember the images from NYC that kept flashing across the television...forever seared in my mind as a reminder that America is not invincible.

10. I was forever changed that day. I have a much larger sense of patriotism and love for my country. I don't take things for granted as much. My husband is on his 2nd overseas tour because of that day & I've learned that life really does change in the blink of an eye.

What do you remember?

From The Ground Up Challenge

2010-09-09T14:45:00.002-05:00

Becky Higgins has been offering up photo challenges this week and this one was to shoot from the ground. The perfect opportunity presented itself when we got our first rain in what seems like FOREVER! I'm sure my neighbors thought I was crazy...oh, who are we kidding...they know I'm crazy. Anyway, I had Mallorye hold an umbrella over me (& my camera) while I got down on the ground to shoot this shot in the rain.

{Rodney & Angie}

2010-09-05T17:26:00.003-05:00

Just a few of my favorite pics from the wedding .....my friend Amy & I, shot this wedding last night...our first joint effort...these are just a few of my favorites so far....

{the dress}

{Angie....the beautiful bride}

(Angie & her dad, Jack....looking into the sunset}

{the bridesmaids}

I'm pleased. The pictures aren't perfect, and there are a ton that no one will ever see, but I learned something with every snap of the shutter and that's what it's about...learning & improving.

Stay tuned...Project Life to resume soon :)

Photography 101

2010-09-01T09:30:00.003-05:00

How about a real post? Sort of...lol.

I'm taking a Digital Photography Class at our local university and I'm so excited!! Nervous. But excited. Last night was our first class and I literally can't wait to get started on homework assignments. I'm a little nervous about being critiqued in a group setting, but it's worth it to see my photography skills improve. I love the challenge of finding a unique way to photograph something, not just the same thing that's been done and overdone. Most of the assignments seem simple enough (except I'm not allowed to use the Auto setting...lol), but there's one that's going to take some major thought and creativity. {take a picture of a "what is it?" aka as abstract or you can take a picture of something that represents Seven to you} That is going to be a challenging assignment to say the least.

Last nights lecture was on Aperture, Shutter Speed, ISO...and all that technical mind boggling stuff! I took 6 pages of notes, so I'm hoping something sunk in...at least a little bit.

This weekend I'll get to practice some of what I learned last night as I photograph my step-sister's wedding at their house. It's an outdoor wedding and I can imagine that it's going to be fabulous! I have a friend going with me as a second set of eyes and she'll be shooting as well...we both love photography and I think we're both pretty creative....so, we'll see...

I'll probably be posting my assignment pictures along the way and welcome your comments!

{25/365} Project Life

2010-09-01T09:27:00.001-05:00

{ Me at work...where I spend more time than any other place}

24/365 Project Life

2010-08-31T22:40:00.003-05:00

Finally! After several weeks of waiting and building patience, Matt was able to close on his & Mallorye's house. They are now official homeowners...how exciting!

{Ms. Philhours, Matt, & Mallorye....transferring the dream}

23/365 Project Life

2010-08-30T22:36:00.000-05:00

With Quentin overseas, sometimes I just need a little help in the handy man area....a couple from our church came over tonight and trimmed my shrubs and repaired my dryer. It's incredible to see God's love fleshed out in such a tangible way.

{The Love Of Christ}

22/365 Project Life

2010-08-29T22:33:00.000-05:00

After a mild panic....we found ourselves at David's Bridal getting alterations to Mal's wedding dress that doesn't fit. Luckily, they assured us that all would be fine! And yes, those are the shoes she'll be wearing....her Tom's for the wedding day.

{Just A Glimpse}

21/365 Project Life

2010-08-28T22:30:00.000-05:00

Every Saturday will find me staring at these knobs...it is my normal....my life.

{Normal Is A Setting On The Dryer}

20/365 Project Life

2010-08-27T22:27:00.000-05:00

I don't wear a pony tail often, but this was one of those days....which was great because it showed off my new "I Love My Soldier" t-shirt :)

{Pony Tails & Tees}

19/365 Project Life

2010-08-26T22:23:00.000-05:00

I work late on Mondays & Thursdays so the boss' grandchildren are usually there...what better way to spend break than pushing this adorable little girl on her swing?!

{Break Time with Bethany}

Project Life 18/365

2010-08-25T21:23:00.003-05:00

Well..this was my attempt at getting a picture of a very pretty full moon...obviously I need some work on this type of photo...lol

{Full Moon}

Project Life....caught up :)

2010-08-24T21:51:00.003-05:00

I'm all caught up with my Project Life blogs....you'll have to look on the appropriate date for the pictures since I backdated all the posts.

....and since that took a while...you'll have to wait a few more days for the devotional God wrote in my head....

Project Life 17/365

2010-08-24T21:49:00.003-05:00

Lucky for me, Matt has a Netflix membership...so I get to watch a ton of movies with him and Mallorye...tonight selection? The Book of Eli...which was really good...but ya gotta hang all the way to the end (& overlook a ton of foul language)

{The Book Of Eli}

A Wee Bit Behind....

2010-08-24T09:16:00.004-05:00

So...I'm a few days behind on posting my Project Life photos...but I have them...just need time to upload them. It has been a crazy few days....

I had an amazing weekend....Saturday was spent helping Mallorye & Matt with packing in preparation for their new house that he'll be moving into soon (she'll join him Dec. 11th) and of course Sunday was an amazing, fabulous, day in the Lord. I felt God's presence stronger than I ever have and couldn't stand for it to stop...so after church, I went to the park where I snapped a bajillion pix of God's handiwork...all while He wrote a devotional in my head to match those pictures (I'm working on typing that to share with all of you). I also shared my faith witha complete stranger...this was a first for me. I've shared Christ with people I know...family, friends, etc....but never just with a random person I come in contact with. Exhilirating! God strengthened and renewed me Sunday....

...because He knew that I would need it Sunday night.

I got a call from my sister after I got home from Small Group that we needed to take my dad to the ER for what we initially thought was a stroke. It turns out we were wrong and his former addiction had took hold of his life yet once again. My dad needs prayers. He needs Jesus to be real to him. He needs me to love him unconditionally....so this week I've been busy caring for dad and listening to him tell me the same story for the 100th time...busy showing him Jesus' love....but I promise to upload photos soon and a devotional...

....in the meantime...say a prayer for my little family and especially my dad :)

Project Life 16/365

2010-08-23T21:43:00.000-05:00

This is Mallorye's last first day of school picture....which is very sad. Today she started college at ASU...a new chapter in her life. I'm sure she thought I was insane at taking a picture of her...since she is in college...but hey, I'm a mom and I gotta capture the moment...lol.

I'm happy to report that her first day of school was a success. She got out of both of her classes in 10 minutes, which she thought was super (I told her not to get used to that).

{Mallorye's first day of college}

Project Life 15/365

2010-08-22T21:41:00.000-05:00

Oh my goodness....this day will require another post. All I can say is God is good. All the time. I felt His presence today stronger than I have in a long time, which prompted me to take this (plus a gazillion more) picture to capture the majesty of God's creation.

{God's Handiwork}

Project Life 14/365

2010-08-21T21:36:00.000-05:00

You can find this site after every swim party....Blake's shorts laid across the porch railing to dry. I don't mind though...I know too soon these days will be gone. Today, he celebrated the end of summer and beginning of school with our church youth group at a Pool Bash....gotta love Summer! {After The Swim}

Project Life 13/365

2010-08-20T21:32:00.000-05:00

The wedding day is getting closer and Misty and I went to the Paragould Community Center to try to get a layout for the reception....ideas were plentiful....

{Paragould Community Center...aka ...Reception Site}

Project Life 12/365....and a brief post

2010-08-19T07:53:00.004-05:00

We'll start with a Picture Of The Day......

{Blake...1st Day of High School....9th Grade here we come}

This was a different kind of 1st Day for us....

Obviously, Quentin isn't here to share the morning with us and that makes it bittersweet, but I know he's thinking of Blake as he starts high school today. He would probably roll his eyes along with Blake and tell me I make too big of a fuss over the first day and ask me why I have to take a million pictures...lol.

Second, for the 1st time, I only had one child to get up and ready for school. Mallorye doesn't start college until next week, so this morning was all about Blake. (I did make her get up and take a picture for me and snapped one of her and Blake...I was nice and didn't post it...lol)

It was different kind of morning, but I'm so excited for Blake (and let's be honest...I love school routine) He's growing into a wonderful young man and I know that he's going to have an incredible year. My prayer is that he will impact his school this year for God as he grows closer and more mature in his faith.

So....bring on the school year!

{I think this is his "quit-taking-pictures-mom-I'm-not-a-little-kid-anymore" look}

{Yes, my freshman is taller than me...he's taller than everyone!}

{On his way....we live just a few blocks from the high school}

Project Life 11/365

2010-08-18T23:59:00.000-05:00

{Matt "teaching" Chyna to play guitar}

Project Life 10/365

2010-08-17T21:58:00.004-05:00

Just call me Mother Of The Year....yes, I procrastinated yet once again, and went tonight for a marathon school supply shopping trip....

{School Supplies}

Project LIfe 9/365

2010-08-16T21:44:00.002-05:00

Matt finding a light-hearted moment while helping Mal pack up her room...sadness.

{Matt...need I say more}

Project Life 8/365

2010-08-15T21:38:00.001-05:00

Sundays are one of my favorite days of the week...a day we spend with our church family...and we always go out to eat after church. This Sunday we went to Ta Molly's with the whole gang....Me, Blake, Mallorye, Matt, Matt's parent's Bryan & Leisa, Jr & Brittany, Randy & Theresa, and Brian & Cindy....tons of laughs!!

{Mallorye & Brittany sharing some laughs}

Project Life 7/365

2010-08-14T21:30:00.000-05:00

Blake and I spent the day at my Aunt Liz's house helping her clean up from her ceiling falling in due to the intense heat. Cord was busy sewing some curtains for his horse trailor and then took Blake driving....taught him to drive a standard....but not to sew...LOL.

{Cord showing his domestic side}

Project Life 6/365

2010-08-13T23:58:00.000-05:00

I've been driving 2 hours to Collierville on a routine basis for almost a year so that the kids could be seen by an Orthopedic Surgeon at the Campbell Clinic....first with Mallorye when she broke her ankle and had to have surgery and then with Blake for fractures in his feet caused by rapid growth ....Today...we graduated! Both kids are officially released!

{Blake passing the time on his cell phone, while he waits for Dr. Ishikawa to check the progress of his feet}

Project Life 5/365

2010-08-12T16:56:00.002-05:00

I began writing for Army Wife Magazine last October (2009), and most 12th days of the month find me here...at my laptop...finishing up my articles by the 12th deadline. I'm normally NOT a procrastinator, but I write better under pressure...LOL!

{Army Wife Magazine deadline...Interview with a fellow Army National Guard wife}

Project Life 4/365

2010-08-11T08:09:00.000-05:00

Inspired by a book I read a few years ago, The Wednesday Letters by Jason F. Wright, I began writing my own Wednesday Letters to Quentin. Sometimes I have much to say and sometimes very little, but I always write them on Wednesday. There are some days that I don't feel like it, but it has become a part of my routine and an expression of my love.....even on the days I don't feel it....Now that he's in Afghanistan, these letters have become even more relevant, more special, more transparent, more necessary, more heartfelt.

{The Wednesday Letter.....aka Deployment Letter #22}

Project Life 3/365

2010-08-10T21:37:00.001-05:00

Raising money for our local Mission Outreach, the Weiner Mobile was at a local grocery store today...and of course we had to go see it....and take pictures!

{The Weiner Mobile....and I know you're totally singing the song now}

Branson 2010

2010-08-09T20:35:00.002-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, I had the privilege to take my sister Tiffany and her oldest son, Daniel on vacation with me and Blake. It was such a crazy week leading up to vacation. Mallorye and Matt were supposed to go with us, but he had a business trip to Jordan that ended up delayed and prevented them from being able to join us. I think God works in mysterious ways and it was a great weekend for me and my sister to bond with our sons and each other.

The ride to Branson was filled with tons of laughs....we played the ABC game, stopped for a photo op in Cotter, and surprisingly, it was the adults that needed potty breaks!

{bridge at Cotter, AR}

{Daniel & Blake at the Lookout Point in Cotter}

{Daniel & Tiffany...yes, the sun was in our eyes, but at least it was pretty weather}

{Me & Tiffany....after years of just tolerating each other...we now have an incredible bond as sisters and friends}

Friday night we went to an amazing show....The Kirby Van Birch Show. I was absolutely amazed at his illusions and kept trying to figure out the tricks of the trade...to no avail. Daniel got a landing light and helped land the helicopter. I think one of my favorite parts was the sawing the girls in half...I mean really...how do they do that???!

Saturday we spent the ENTIRE day at Silver Dollar City. Tiff hadn't been since we were little kids and Daniel had never been, so this was an experience. I'm happy to report that we rode EVERY SINGLE RIDE...at least once.

{Blake's airbrush tattoo}

{Daniel & Tiffany in front of Wildfire...his 1st upside down roller coaster...we actually got a video of us riding this which was super cool}

{Me & Blake on the Lost River....I look like a drowned rat...which was the look of the day for me...oh well...I had a blast anyway}

{Daniel & Tiff on the Lost River...I don't think they got as drenched as I did}

We ordered pizza that night and enjoyed the pool and hot tub at the hotel.

Sunday we had breakfast at the Baldknobbers and then headed to the Titanic Museum. Tiffany & Blake were able to hold their hand in the frigid water for over 7 minutes! It was very educational and very emotional....just thinking about what those people went through. After that, we headed to Springfield to the Bass Pro Shop where we looked at the aquarium and dreamed of the things we'd love to buy....we met Tiff's cousin for dinner and then headed home. We went through an Amish community which was pretty neat to see them headed to church in their horse & buggy.

Unfortunately, vacation came to an abrupt halt with food poisoning! Which hit me & Tiff on the way home. The things we do for fun! All in all, it was a great weekend and I LOVED hanging out with my sister.

Project Life 2/365

2010-08-09T20:26:00.003-05:00

Mallorye picked up her Senior yearbook today and of course we spent the afternoon recalling memories of the last school year.

Project Life 1/365

2010-08-08T16:15:00.001-05:00

After 12 years of not having a ring...my husband let me purchase myself a wedding ring. I got this at Kay's and absolutely love it.

Happy Anniversary...18 Years :)

2010-08-08T00:01:00.000-05:00

August 8th.....a day to celebrate 18 years of marriage, and once again we're separated by 8,000 miles and a couple of oceans, but I know you're thinking of me....just like I'm thinking of you.

I remember our wedding like it was yesterday. You were so handsome in your white tuxedo and I was so nervous, but seeing you at the end of that aisle, smiling at me, gave me courage. Courage to become Mrs. Quentin Bales and I have never regretted that.

We've had our share of ups and downs, trials and triumphs, but the one constant has been our love for one another ...unconditional, unending. Even during our most trying times, our love has been the glue that holds us together. I'm so thankful that you've been patient with me, have loved me, and have encouraged me.

I love you with every breath within me and can't wait for us to be together again.
HAPPY 18TH ANNIVERSARY

TO AN AMAZING HUSBAND...FRIEND...HERO

Ram Pride

2010-08-07T08:36:00.002-05:00

It's no secret that I'm an organizing freak, so when the new digital sign at the school went up, you can imagine my excitement. Now it won't quite matter as much when Blake forgets to bring home a note telling me of upcoming conferences...because I can see it on the sign! I love this!!

My boss, being a PHS graduate, is a huge supporter of our Paragould Rams and each year purchases an ad for the sports program. The last couple of years he's used the children of employees in the ad and here's this year's crew...Blake's the tall, skinny, boy on the end :)

The future of Paragould

Adrienne

2010-07-21T06:12:00.003-05:00

An impromptu photo shoot with Adrienne

Her mom said, she looked cute & we should take some pictures...

so we did!

My favorite!

a little overexposed, but still a cute picture...

I like the angle of this one...just a slight tilt of the camera...

Another great angle....

I enjoyed just playing with the camera...professional I am not, but I'm learning. I can't wait till August gets here and I start my digital photography class at our local university. I'll be a crazy picture snapping fool when I learn what all these buttons do! So for now...enjoy my impropmptu photo shoots....

July Birthdays

2010-07-21T05:51:00.002-05:00

Two of my favorite people had birthdays this month.
You guessed it....Mallorye & Blake.

Mallorye turned 18 on July 2

She stands tall at 5'10"....is growing her hair out long.....learning to cook...heading to college...preparing to be a wife....buying her first house with her fiance'...

She is coming into her own person...doesn't mind debating with you...is torn between that place of youth & adulthood...still has an incredible heart for others....is tenderhearted....forgiving....and is learning love in its purest form

Blake turned 15 on July 18

and at 6'3", he towers over his older sister...he loves his shaggy hair...shaves on a regular basis....and is starting to get some muscle definition (at least in his arms)...and he's driving now...

He is a worker...never backs down from good hard work....an outdoorsman in every sense of the word....a little bit of an adventure junkie....hates it when he lets people down....caring...kind...compassionate...yet still trying to find out who he is in this world

Adrienne & Alicia...
two of our best friends who came to Chili's to celebrate Blake's birthday...they also came to Brick Oven to celebrate Mal's ...but guess who forgot her camera!

Aunt Liz & Blake...she's like a sister to me and loves my kids as if they were her own.

Blake & Alicia...don't you just love how he towers over EVERYBODY...even the adults!

We had a great time celebrating Blake's birthday at Chili's and Mallorye's at Brick Oven earlier in the month. These kids are so loved by everyone around them and I know they have an amazing year ahead of them :)

What Brings You Joy?

2010-07-16T14:06:00.003-05:00

I was asked a tough question this past week....what brings me true joy? It saddened me that I had to think about the answer and couldn't just spout of a million things. It made me realize that somewhere in the middle of this thing called life, amidst deployments, teenagers, and life changes, I've lost sight of that spark. I've allowed myself to be beat down by the negativity and have forgotten to embrace the smell of the roses.

So....I've been thinking of that question and here are a few of my answers;

My family brings me true joy.

I'm happiest when surrounded by my children, my husband, my sister, my mom, my aunt...you get the picture...my family. I love just hanging out in our living room laughing with each other, sharing our days adventures, cuddling, and just being us.

Singing brings me true joy.

I don't just sing the songs....I feel the songs. Since I was a little girl, I've loved the art of losing myself in song. It's like I get to feel all these emotions that I've buried and no one looks at me like I'm crazy. Sometimes I sing well...other times not so much...but it doesn't matter when you sing with passion.

Scrapbooking brings me true joy.

Creating something that captures the memories is very satisfying for me. Searching for the perfect placement of pictures and elements to complement the pictures....well, let's just say its somewhat of an obsession...lol. And while we're at it....

Photography brings me true joy.

Whether it's me snapping the pictures or admiring the artistry of other great photographers, there is something about capturing that one moment, frozen in time forever, in a simple photograph. I'm actually signed up for a photography class in August and can't wait to learn some actual skills and play with the camera.

My friends bring me true joy.

I'm so blessed by some of the most amazing friends! When I don't get to spend time soaking up their laughter...I miss it...my heart misses it.

Neat & organized pantries bring me true joy.

I know...that's weird...a little OCD...and not very typical, but I get a sense of peace, calm, and satisfaction when I look into my pantry and see everything neat and tidy in perfect rows. Even typing that seems a little sick...but, hey...that's who I am.

Long drives on Saturday to nowhere in particular brings me true joy.

I love taking a drive...windows open....radio on or off (doesn't matter)..and just driving around in the country taking in the sights of the freshly planted fields or rows of trees or even rows of houses. I do some of my best thinking in the car and often can find clarity to some deep burning issue by just taking a drive.

These are just a few of the things that bring me joy. I'm making a conscience effort to notice what brings me that sense of peace & happiness and embrace those moments.

What brings you joy? True joy?

Super Skinny on the Month of June

2010-06-23T09:10:00.002-05:00

So, it's been a month...a ton has happened.

(1) Mallorye graduated from High School with Honors and 11th in her class....we were so excited that Quentin was able to come home on leave for this.

Me, Mallorye, & Daddy

(2) Mallorye was in her friend Katie's wedding at the Manley Chapel in Walnut Ridge

(3) We had to take Quentin back to the airport so he can finish his tour in Afghanistan...we're over the half way mark now & starting to prepare for the Homecoming. I personally...can't wait!

Q's airplane that will take him away....

Q's flight was early, so the kids slept on the way back home....I snapped this picture because it was absolutely priceless...

(4) Mallorye started babysitting to earn extra money.

(5) Blake started helping the McCullars some on their farm to earn himself some extra money.

(6) Matt & Mallorye moved their wedding date up to December...so we've kicked it in high gear on planning!

(7) We went to Memphis to have thier engagment pictures made....

Matt & Mallorye at the zoo....I snapped this one on my phone.

(8) I spent some time with the FRG girls in Memphis letting our hair down and trying to relax a little amidst the stress of the deployment.

(9) My hours at work have changed & I'm working late 2 days a week, BUT I get to come in at noon on those days, which I LOVE!!!!

(10) We celebrated yet another holiday without Q home...this one Father's Day, which stung just a tad....Mal & Matt were gone camping, so it was just me & Blake.

Blake & His Father's Day greeting to his dad that we uploaded to Facebook.

So, that's the super skinny on the past month. I'll try to do a better job, but we all know that I'm not the best blogger lately :(

Till next time....adios!

R&R...St. Louis

2010-05-23T20:16:00.004-05:00

Quentin and I took a much needed trip...ALONE...to St. Louis during his R&R. I honestly can't remember the last trip we have taken without the kids being with us. The only thing that we actually had planned was of course, a Cardinals baseball game, lol. The rest of the week was wide open and carefree.

We left on Sunday and just took our time driving down the interstate...enjoying the music on the radio, and the open road before us. We checked into our hotel, The Drury Plaza at The Arch, at about 3:30pm and just spent the evening relaxing in our room.

Day 2 brought shopping at Union Station, The Galleria, and Bass Pro Shop.....wandering through the Union Station Museum....and The Cardinals game. They won. And it was extremely cold...and rainy! Still can't believe I sat through 9 innings in the rain!

Albert Pujols batting at Busch Stadium...we had awesome seats by the way and sat by a couple from Benton, Arkansas...small world

Lunch at Hard Rock Cafe at Union Station...we had an incredible waiter and awesome food!

Day 3 we started out at The Arch and I'm very pleased to say, that in spite of my extreme fear of tight places and heights, I went all the way to the top! 630 Feet....and an incredibly small tram to the top. The view was breathtaking! We also spent time at The Arch Museum and The Science Center & Planetarium. Lunch was at this charming little restaurant in Forest Park...The Boathouse....we skipped the paddle boats, but did enjoy the HUGE salad and dessert :) We ended our night trying our hand at the casino...Q played his first game of Craps on an actual casino table (instead of online) and I threw some money in the slots. Definitely was for entertainment purposes only and not something we do on a routine basis...matter of fact...haven't been in 15 years or more!

Me & Q at The Top Of The Arch.....630' in the air...whew!

View from the top of The Arch....that's Busch Stadium

My awesome picture of The Arch :)

Day 4 meant heading home, but we took advantage of the 11 o'clock check out and slept in one last time. We took an alternate route home and just took our time and enjoyed the easy, relaxed drive...knowing when we got home life would return to warp speed yet once again, and we would be that much closer to the day he has to leave and go back to Afghanistan.

{note: that day to head back has arrived and of course brings with it anxiety, fear, and sadness...prayers are always welcome}

In Between Time

2010-05-22T08:14:00.000-05:00

So.....I'm blogging HERE today :)

Another Milestone....Senior Prom

2010-04-26T00:13:00.003-05:00

Another milestone passed. Mallorye attended her last high school prom Friday night and boy was it ever memorable! It started out with her hair appointment...the lady that we had booked never showed!! The salon was booked solid, but luckily was able to get us into another salon and Mallorye looked gorgeous...as always.

Then, there was the torrential rains...these pictures were taken about an hour before the storm hit...the storm that also produced tornadoes!!

We lucked into this dress on Monday...yes, 4 days before Prom!

I love this girl....can't believe that this is her senior prom!

....and a perfect corsage! Her favorite flower in the perfect colors...very unique.

Mallorye went to Prom with some friends....Matt was at a Men's Retreat with our church....and after going to the dance for an hour, decided she'd rather be at home and was home by 10:30pm . I'm pretty proud of her. I know there were other places she could've went, but she chose to come home.

The next big milestone....Graduation...only a few more weeks away.

Worship Team

2010-04-22T15:06:00.002-05:00

I had an absolute blast at Worship rehearsal last night! Isn't that the way worship should be? I'm so glad that I serve a God that desires to see his children in delight...having a blast for Jesus...whether its at rehearsal, on Sunday morning, or just in my everyday life..My God wants me to have fun worshipping Him...He that created this life I live.

I serve with an incredible team of talented worshippers and rehearsals are a time where we can laugh and have fun while we prepare to bring the body of Christ into an atmosphere of Worship. We record our rehearsals and I literally laughed out loud listening to it today when I heard us cutting up with each other. These guys are crazy! And I wouldn't have it any other way!!

Southside Worship Team....I love you guys :)

Change of Direction?

2010-04-13T11:37:00.002-05:00

More than a month has passed since I've blogged. I seem to be at a point of huge writer's block...or at least ...the things I want to say are too personal, too intimate, to be shared on such a public forum.

That's really unlike me. I'm normally a transparent, lay it all out there, kinda gal...but not lately. I've found myself burrowing tightly into my cocoon, waiting for this season of life to be finished.

God is dealing with me in so many areas right now and with the deployment, my emotions are already on overdrive. So many changes have taken place in such a short amount of time, that catching my breath is a challenge.

I want to write. I need to write. It's therapy for me....and so...I'm asking you to pray for me and the direction I need to take with my blog. I don't want to be surface. If I can't be real, then I don't want to write....so I covet your prayers in this area.

{in other news....my hubby will be home for a 15 day leave VERY SOON}

A Weekend At Kellie's

2010-03-07T15:32:00.005-06:00

Last weekend I had a rare chance to scrapbook with my buddies. We usually go to the Little Red River Retreat and scrapbook together, but the past 2 years I've not been able to go with them...and I've missed it! So, last weekend was our chance to hang out and scrapbook.

I mainly worked on Mallorye & Matt's album telling the story of their relationship from beginning to now...I'm hoping to keep it up and be able to present them a current scrapbook on their wedding day :)

The essential mess....cell phone, Dr. Pepper, tons of paper & glue...and in the background you can see the other project I was working on...I'm making my 2nd set of wedding invitations (150). The 1st set was for Brittany & JR and was more of a vintage look...these are for her sister Katie & fiance Jon and is more modern look with a splash of funk. And yes, these sisters are marrying in just a few months of each other...Brittany's is Friday, March 12th and Katie's is May 22nd.

My friend Kellie, who was kind enough to open her home to us and offer up a bed! This lady is super fun, incredibly talented, creative, godly, and just one of the best friends you could ask for. She's working on her calendars that she gives as gifts at Christmas....they are amazing!...and she pours a ton of love into them..

This is Michelle {who will probably kill me that I put this on here} who came to scrap, but ended up not feeling so hot...so this was her position most of the weekend.

Kelli's main squeeze, Terry. He tried to tune us out...I think tried being the key word here. I give him kudos for allowing us to invade his home and weekend.

And no weekend at Kel's is complete without Maggie. Isn't she just the most adorable thing?! She's getting a bit older {notice her gray whiskers} and was having a rough weekend, but she's still as feisty as ever.

It was nice to just relax and be creative. I'm looking forward to our next scrapbooking date :)

Complete Nothingness

2010-03-06T05:41:00.002-06:00

Because I am still surrounded by mounds of used tissues and a ton of meds {I did go back to the doctor yesterday and get a shot and more antibiotics and the lovely steroids} I am going to bore you with this random meme of useless information about myself....

1. What is your name spelled backwards? Regnig {I think its kind of catchy}

2. What did you do last night? layed in supine position on my couch, coughing, sneezing, eating yummy homemade Chicken Noodle Soup, visiting with friends that came to offer some TLC, and watched the Singing Bee..oh...and read.. {you can do alot when you're sick and in bed}

3. What was the last thing you downloaded onto your computer? Pictures of the kiddos

4. Have you ever licked a 9 volt battery? ummm...can't say that I have and I'm pretty sure that's a good thing

5. When is the last time you swam in a pool? I honestly can't remember...sometime last year...I had a membership to the pool, but yea...good intentions

6. What are you wearing right now? blue pajama bottoms & Hard Rock Kuwait tee, hair in a towel

7. How many cars have you owned? I think hubby and I have owned 5 each for a grand total of 10...11 if you count our daughters

8. What is the type of music you detest most? Rap

9. Are you registered to vote? Yeppers. I don't always, but I'm registered and have the option

10. Do you have cable? Yes, but just the basic package...no frills here

11. What kind of computer do you use? I just invested in a laptop for the first time...an Asus with Windows7...nothing fancy...again...no frills...just whats necessary {maybe I'm more practical than I realized}

12. Have you ever made a prank phone call? yep

13. Would you go bungee jumping or sky diving? I'd like to think I would..and its actually on my bucket list...however, I'm terrified of heights, but get an odd adrenaline rush from it at the same time...so I'm weird...

14. What is the farthest you've ever traveled? I really haven't done much traveling...I think Orlando is the farthest...followed by Chicago

15. What is your favorite comic strip? I love "Zits"....reminds me of my life with my own teens

16. Do you know all the words to the National Anthem? technically? no...I know all the words to the first stanza (what everyone else knows) but it has a whole bunch more to it...look it up!

17. What is your favorite pizza topping? Chicken

18. Chips or Popcorn? I prefer chips unless I'm at the theatre...then I want popcorn with EXTRA EXTRA butter

19. Who is your cell phone provider? Cingular..AT&T...whatever they're called now

20. Do you shower in the morning or night? always morning...I need the boost

21. Have you ever smoked peanut shells? I've never even heard of it and thinking you have to be pretty desperate for that...I've never smoked anything....but I can blow smoke up your rear with the best of 'em :)

22. Have you ever been in a beauty pageant? Several....my last two were as a married woman in the Mrs. Arkansas America Pageant in 1999 (runner up) and in 2001

23. Orange Juice or Apple Juice? I prefer Orange..it does not prefer me

24. Who were the last people you ate lunch with? probably my Aunt Liz...who is more like a sister to me...we eat lunch on a regular basis

25. Favorite Chocolate Bar? Hershey's of course

26. Who is your oldest friend and how long have you known each other? Amy, we've been best friends since 8th grade...which was a long time ago...roughly 24 years or so...definitely the kind of friends that can not talk for months and then pick up as if we seen each other yesterday

27. When was the last time you ate a homegrown tomato? last summer

28. Have you ever won a trophy? Yep...mostly for beauty pageants, but a few in basketball

29. Favorite arcade game? Mrs. PacMan

30. Ever ordered from an infomercial? sadly, yes.

31. Sprite or 7UP? I detest both...only for when your sick

32. Have you ever had to wear a uniform to work/school? Yep, I was a nurse.

33. The last thing you bought at Walgreens? my antibiotic & steroid prescriptions

34. Ever thrown up in public? not that I can recall, and I'm sure that's a memory I wouldn't forget

35. Would you prefer being a millionaire or finding true love? Definitely true love. Money can't buy everything...but true love can get you through pretty much anything.

36. Do you believe in love at first sight? I do. I've seen it up close and personal, although I do believe that love grows over time into a love that you didn't even know existed.

37. Spongebob or Jimmy Neutron? neither, I'm not a cartoon fan at all.

38. Did you have long hair as a kid? most of the time I did...I had a friend that cut it for me when we were 4...so I had a few periods of short hair which were horrid {makes you wonder why I tried it as an adult...if its not cute on a kid...just sayin'}

39. What message is on your Voicemail machine? "Hey this is Ginger. I can't get to my phone right now, so leave a name & number & I'll call ya back." {how's that for original?}

40. Where would you like to go right now? Happyville :)

41. What's the name of your pet? do kids count?

42. What kind of backpack do you have and what's in it? no backpack...just a cute black purse with my wallet, notebook, carmex, & gum....I travel light

43. What kind of tennis shoes do you have? I splurged here...bought myself some Merrels and I love them...but I'm in need of a new pair

44. Who was the last person you talked to on the phone? my Aunt Liz...checking on me

45. Mickey Mouse or Bugs Bunny? Bugs Bunny...hands down

Ok...now wasn't that just fun and enlightening?! You can thank Amber and Meredith for giving me the idea ;)

Sickness....

2010-03-04T17:19:00.002-06:00

Feeling like poo! Would love to actually make it a full week at work, but I seem to have this nasty sinus infection turned ugly! So.......

....I've had some of this ....

....a little of this....

...and ALOT of this!

Here's to hoping tomorrow is a day without a box of tissues and nasty meds :)

Long Awaited Christmas Pictures....

2010-02-23T16:38:00.005-06:00

So I finally figured out that Blogger was fine...I was just not being very patient...imagine that! Anyway...here are a few Christmas pictures. Yes, I know it's February (we've went over this already)

So the best part of Christmas was having Q home...Santa brought him a Nikon Coolpix camera to take to Afghanistan with him. He's excited really...I know it's hard to tell from this picture...lol...

Mallorye & Blake opening their cash from Grandma & Pa...you can never go wrong with the green stuff...

Blake & his new basketball goal....which was the huge package under the tree. I'm sure if someone had gotten a video of me trying to wrap that...by myself...we would have won some green stuff on "America's Funniest Home Videos"

Blake, Papa Teddy Joe (my dad), and Mallorye...I think dad kinda looks like Santa Clause...what do you think?

Mallorye, Memaw Vines (my grandma), & Blake

Caleb begging to open presents....that face was hard to resist!

My adorable nephews...Daniel & Caleb

My sister Tiffany & her husband, Daniel....this year has been one of building relationships with my sister & brother-in-law...we are fast becoming best friends...and I love it! I'm sure no one would have thought that 15 years ago!

Matt & Mallorye...she doesn't have a stitch of make up on....so you know it's really love! This was the first Christmas we've ever had a boyfriend "home for the holidays."

Tiffany, Mallorye, & Me

See no evil. Hear no evil. Speak no evil.

Hope you enjoyed the pictures...there were 100's more, but it is February, and I'm just trying to catch up...lol.