Fun Fact Friday: My claim to fame......sort of?

I read Beth Moore's (of Living Proof Ministries) blog a good bit. And by a good bit, I mean, I check it every day. I've always loved her studies and the way she writes, so it was a natural choice for my "link list." A couple of months ago, she did a post offering to facilitate a bible study, that we, all the blog readers could participate in. The concept was sort of experimental, as she said that she had never facilitated a study for her blog readers. Plus, it is not a Beth Moore study, it is No Other Gods by Kelly Minter. But, it was presented as a slower pace, (read not as much homework as a Beth Moore) lighter study; and Beth herself had done the study and thought it had merit.



Anyway, kind of on a whim, I sent an email out to my Sunday school class mates to see if there was any interest. So,when the sign up post went up, the Living Proof blog received 1634 comments from folks that had formed groups and wanted to participate; and mine was one of them. Much to my surprise, we originally had 17 ladies from our sunday school class signed up.



That is when I began to panic. I never dreamed that that many of us would want to participate, and I suddenly began to feel a lot of pressure. What if they don't like the study? What if I end up having to talk, you know, IN FRONT OF PEOPLE? Etc. etc.



I had no idea how Beth was going to facilitate the study, and that didn't dawn on me until after I had a group of girls signed up. So, I anxiously awaited the post from Beth about what our first assignment was and when I read it, I promptly passed out (just kidding, but I sure wanted to.) I literally thought , after reading the assignment to our group of gathered girls, that they were all going to stare at me as if I had grown a third leg......out of my head.



What was the assignment, you ask? Well, here it is:

Spend most of your gathering time thinking of ways as a small group to memorize it (Jude 1:24-25). Get creative! You can make up hand motions or actions to go with it - anything fun, clever, or meaningful to make it easier to memorize. If you think you did a really great or funny job with it, here’s what you do! Fine tune it over the next four or five days then video tape it with all your siestas in mind



She went on to say that a winner would be chosen from all of the submitted videos.



To make a long story short, I had no reason to worry (haven't I learned yet). The girls jumped on board without a moment's hesitation. We laughed our heads off trying to come up with something to enter......and somehow we ended up doing a rap. That in an of itself is quite hilarious, and it makes me giggle every time I think about it.......especially considering that there are only a couple of us that are blessed with the gift of rhythm. (And I am not one of them) But, we honestly had so much fun with it.

My brother, Scott, hooked us up with a beat and he kindly created an actually good video out of the footage that we taped.....even though he thought we were crazy.



Well, we didn't win the contest, but we did get honorable mention. As a matter of fact, it is posted on her blog right now as I type. So head on over there and check out our rendition of Jude 1:24-25. Go ahead, have a laugh on us, and learn some scripture too.



On a more serious note, the actual study is very good and very thought provoking. I would recommend it.

Fun Fact Friday: Hard work pays off

So, this week my kids have been at their Aunt Sissy's (my sister, Shelley). This extra free time allowed for some long overdue work on the house. Since we moved in last year, we've been wanting to paint the small half bath and our master bathroom. Both were just the "contractor cream" color or the standard off-white. But when we first moved in we painted both the kid's bedrooms, the office, and the dining room; and quite frankly, the thought of opening another can of paint around that time made me all twitchy.




Anyway, right before the kid's left I had found this cool little box to put in my half bath; and purchasing that box was the inspiration I needed to finally get the paint. So, while I was at it, I went ahead and got the paint for our bathroom too. I had also found a few accent pieces last week when I was in Atlanta, so I've had fun this week decorating.




The fact is I hate painting and I'm really not that good at it. But, the fun fact is: hard work pays off, and the sense of accomplishment you get with a little elbow grease is a nice little feeling, not to mention the great looking rooms (if I do say so myself.)




This is the box that started it all. I just really liked it, and thought it was pretty. I also found a great rug to match, and some hand towels that matched a flower on the outside of the box. (SCORE) The hand towels are actually rolled up inside the box, but the picture doesn't reflect that.



I am actually priviliged to have my own decorating consultants (named Tammy & Tamara ) who suggested that I hang the lid of the box on the wall........doesn't that look good?




It dawned on me that I should have taken before and after pictures, but I thought about it too late, so an "in process" shot will have to do. Did I mention I hate painting?





Here is the finished color with some new accents on the wall. I super love this iron shelf. It was a steal at my favorite places for home decor (Ross', TJ Maxx, and Marshalls). I'm not keeping the things that are on the shelf now, I just put them up there for the picture because I haven't gotten anything to put up there yet. I think I'm going to get glass jars with the chrome colored lids to hold cotton balls, etc. Or, maybe some pretty glass bottles that would have bath salts, etc. What do y'all think?

I had been wanting a large clock to put on the wall above my bathtub. It is a large wall, so it needed something big. Plus, we didn't have any time keeping device in the bathroom. I'm sure the new addition will aid in actually having us on time for church, but I think I've mentioned before that I need to develop a love for my alarm clock. So far, it hasn't happened. Anyway, the large clocks like that are kind of expensive; and if you know me very well, you know I'm cheap. So, I've been waiting to find one on clearance forever. Well, Saturday was my lucky day. Thanks to Michael's, I'm the proud owner of this clock at a whopping 60% off. Thankyouverymuch!! And, gosh y'all, I think it looks good. And yes, it was 5 'til 11 when I took the picture.

And, lastly, I just had to share this picture. This is our beloved Gigi. You've no doubt heard me mention her before. But, here is what she did the whole time I was slaving away. Every time I would emerge from a half painted bathroom, there she'd be, snoozing away. It was just comical. So, I thought another fact worth mentioning is that DOGS HAVE IT MADE.

Fun Fact Friday: Family fun in the sun

People, the fact is: IT IS SUMMER. Just like most families, our definition of summer is fun, fun, fun......especially when Maci & Bayley are in town. Just see for yourself:

Fun Fact Friday: A Fresh New Wind

I love blogs. I really do. In fact, I'm addicted. But, they can pose a problem, and actually, I'm referring to more than the fact that my dishes and laundry piles seem to stay bigger, longer now that the blog has entered my life. No, it's more than that. It's the fact that sometimes you can start comparing yourself to others. If you live with my brain and heart, comparisons usually spells disaster. And, usually it's not a fair comparison. A lot of people only put their best face forward, and only write about the good stuff........when it looks like they could win "mom of the year" for the next 10 years straight.

Don't get me wrong, that stuff is fun to read. But, just recently I read a post that was so real it was breathtaking. And, it was NOT all roses and perfection. It was raw, but beautiful. Since reading it, I have been 'slapped in the face' with how God can use something simple like a blog, to minister and speak to many; if we can find it within ourselves to be real and transparent from time to time. Obviously, I'd want the fun stuff to stay and probably even dominate; but I think there is truth to the fact that God can get glory from our struggles and our honesty. Not to mention the fact that we just really never know who will read it, and who just might need to hear it.

With that being said, I'm going to go out on a limb here and share one of mine. Thankfully, it does have a happy ending, but that's just because I waited too long to post the initial concern. Here is fair warning: If you don't know me already, "short and to the point" is not in my vocabulary. But, here is where God has had me lately. It wasn't fun at first, but the Fun Fact is: A fresh new wind is a welcome change. Here goes:

Ok, I was in a rut, a rough spot, a desert, a dry spell. Call it what you will, but it was me. I had been struggling with discontent and an uneasiness for a while. I felt like my quiet times were flat and that my prayers were hitting the ceiling. I knew what I needed to do, but couldn't ever make it happen; or, I knew what I needed to 'not' do and I wasn't willing to make that happen either.


It wasn't just one thing, but an unhappiness with almost everything "me" not my family or my marriage or stuff like that, more my personal personality flaws and my mothering; and I couldn't shake it. And, not only was it unhappiness it was tons and tons of guilt (which just happens to be my middle name). I came "this close" [picture me with my thumb and pointer finger very close together] to doing a post about it to just kind of lay it out there as a prayer request. I even had the title and everything. You wanna hear it? Ok, it was going to be "Just like Paul, only worse" and I was going to include the well known scripture where Paul is wrestling with himself about what he does and does not do (Romans 7:15-16). But, for whatever reason, I didn't. I don't think I was too embarrassed or anything as I'm fairly transparent, but, I think I was too busy--which, when you think of it, isn't that one of Satan's greatest tools.

Anyway, I finally had had enough. I sat down to spend some time with my Saviour. I told him (in true Shana fashion: I wrote them down in a list) all the areas that I hated, the things that I knew I needed to change. I went down the list of and asked him to help me with. each. and. every. single. one. I kept going....I asked for God to help me to recognize when Satan was at work trying to get me to believe his lies about me; some of which, may have even been lies I was telling myself. I asked God to give me a deeper relationship with him. And, I asked that as a result of that deeper relationship, my kids would sense my passion for Christ and want it for themselves.

This was not even 2 weeks ago. Yet, I have felt like I was breathing in, deep in my lungs, a fresh new wind from him. It was noticeable. Palpable. And, there were (and are) areas where I have noticed legitimate improvement, like I was operating under someone Else's (HIS) ability.

And this is my favorite part: There have been a few times, when I've blown it in certain areas. Where I immediately recognized, "yep, that's exactly what you shouldn't do" yet, for the first time, the guilt wasn't there. I quickly said to myself, "No, that's not what you're shooting for, so just aim higher next time." It was like God was saying to me, "I know you're trying Shana, cut yourself some slack." Sometimes, even most of the time, I'm my own worst enemy. But, I think that is slowly starting to change.

It makes me cry just thinking about it. Breathing in the deep grace of Christ. I've known about it all my life, it's just clicking better these days; maybe that's what pit dwelling does for you. This is it, this is what he came for.......for my sin, for me, because he loves me. There truly is no condemnation. It's a fresh new wind to my soul and spirit. It's a fragrant, pleasant, strong wind that I can take in, deep. I'm so thankful for it. Hopefully, it will be a contagious joy. Hopefully, I'll be able to breath it out, and shine for HIM. Maybe, this was my first step.

Fun Fact Friday: Princesses & Power Rangers

Hey folks~

We are home and we are WORN OUT! Disney is a great and wonderful experience, and going with young kids does make for a very magical time; but just so you are fully informed, it is also exhausting. We walked our fool selves all over those parks, up and down, from one end to the other in search of pirates, princesses, power rangers, or whoever. We are weary, but you know what? I'd do it again. Luckily, I won't have to for another 7 years or so........but, I would do it again, and I will do it again, as soon as Malley gets old enough. By that time, Bryce and Sara Kate will have long since lost interest in pirates and princesses and they'll be off to do Splash Mountain and the RockinRollercoaster and the water parks with their daddy, and I'll get the pleasure of hunting down princesses one more time with my Malley-girl. I look forward to it already, but I'm also relieved that I have a few more years before it's time. So, the Fact Is: Disney is a blast. It is a truly magical place for the kids, and it's worth every exhausting minute. Enjoy our shots of the princesses & power rangers. Hopefully, more posts and pictures(without princesses & power rangers) will follow.

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Fun Fact Friday: it's fun just to let them win

I've been told many times regarding parenting, that you should 'pick your battles'. And, over the years I'd say that I have to agree. Sometimes, it's just not worth it. Does it really matter that your daughter shows up to your son's T-Ball practice with her daddy and she's wearing a dress AND pants with some Minnie Mouse sandals that don't match and are too big...........apparently not, because that is a battle that Brad chose not to engage in. Obviously, sometimes you get some funny stuff when you 'let them win'; which, by the way, is what I call it when I choose not to engage in battle. I could pull the "because I'm the mommy" card, but sometimes, I choose not too - when that happens, I'm LETTING them win.


That was the case today. I'm totally letting them win. They have morphed into chefs at a fabulous restaurant, and they are cooking something GREAT. Never mind that they completely stole the strawberries that I was slicing off of the counter. And the grapes? Yep, they're gone too. But it has been hilarious to hear them. I'm over here at the computer pretending to be engrossed in something, and I'm laughing on the inside. Bryce just said, "Sara Kate, why did you pour water in there.......you've ruined the recipe." And, they just scolded Gigi (our dog) for swiping some of their masterpiece....... I guess they're learning that you shouldn't cook in the floor. They have several of my pots and pans out, and lots and lots of cooking utensils, and my kitchen now looks like a disaster area. But, they are having a blast. They are getting along and cooking all kinds of things (luckily, they haven't thought to ask me to taste it). Their little imaginations are running wild.



So, the fact is: sometimes it's fun just to let them win. Sometimes the mess is worth it. Enjoy a few shots from The Farmer Culinary Institute.

Here they are cleaning up their mess, like all good chefs do, right? Let's not tell..........

Have a good weekend everybody!!

Fun Fact Friday: Silence is Golden

Here it is, almost 7:00 PM and I have not posted a Fun Fact today. I almost brushed it off entirely, and let the day (and the post) go by completely because I had NOTHING for the post. My creative juices had officially run dry, but then the last 24 hours played back through my mind, and like a lightning bolt, I was struck with the obvious. Silence is golden!!

Now, somewhere about 30 miles from here, my brother has just passed out. In his mind, I would be the last person in the world to enjoy a little silence. Apparently, in my younger years, I drove him some kind of crazy with some sort of constant vocalizations.....be it talking, yelling, crying, screaming, or singing, or all of the above all at the same time. It's been rumored that Scott would pitifully ask of our mother, "Mom, can't you please make her shut up?" To add insult to injury, I had an older sister who loved the talking and the yelling and the singing as much as I did.......especially if we were in the car.

Fast forward about 20 years. Now, here I am with 2 children.........2 children, I might add that are A LOT LIKE ME. The tables have officially been turned and now Scott can't wipe that grin off his face......you know the one that's saying, "Paybacks are ......" Oh, yes indeed readers, the addage is true.....paybacks are. And, I'd have to whole-heatedly agree that the absolute worst form of the constant chatter/singing/yelling torture is when you're in the car. Oh, heaven help me, there is nothing worse. Usually, one is singing and the other is saying "mom" every other word. Then, they'll go in to some sort of nonstop nonsense.......something akin to la la la la la la or some other sing-song rhythmical, repetitive insanity. Top all of that off, with the fact that Bryce usually has some sort of toy that he is banging or beating or drumming or whathaveyou......Oh yes ma'am it makes for a pleasant ride.

Just recently....like this morning, I had the opportunity to have myself some silence. It was grand. It was wonderful. It was....... a MIRACLE. Brad was not home, the kids were not home, total silence. (Not that Brad ever says much....it's just the kids I'm talking about). But, speaking of Brad, he has this supernatural, God given ability to TUNE THEM OUT!! Oh, how I've longed for that gift. But, nope, I don't have it....probably never will. Oh well, at least I'll savor silence every chance I get.

The Fact is: Silence is golden

Fun Fact Friday: Bryce's Baptism

I'm sure you all remember my post about Bryce asking Jesus into his heart. Since he did, back in December, we've been happily anticipating his baptism. Our church usually does baptisms on or around Christmas and Easter holidays. So, last Sunday Bryce was baptized. We explained beforehand, that this is something you do after you ask Jesus in your heart. He was not the least bit apprehensive, probably due in part, by witnessing his best friends baptism last December. There were four children baptized that Sunday, all of whom, became Christians at home under the direction and guidance of their parents.

It was a very special day. One which, I hope he never forgets. My brother, and several friends, helped with all the pictures and videos (thanks guys).

Entering the baptismal pool.

In the pool, before immersion....don't you love that smile!!!

Just after.....

My absolute favorite picture. Look how proud he looks and look at proud Daddy!!

This is my favorite part of the baptism. Our pastor, anoints them with oil, speaks their full name, and declares to them that they have been sealed for life. I love it because it is such a definitive statement of his salvation.

While we were changing his clothes, I again told him that when we ask Jesus in our heart, he washes away all of our sins, and the baptism is to help us remember that Jesus has washed away our sins and forgiven us, and made us clean.

On a side note, this was extra special for us because Bryce's baptism was performed by our beloved pastor. He is taking a new position within our denomination, and this will likely be his last baptism ever. He is so special to us..... he performed our wedding, has dedicated both of our children, has generally been there for us through thick and thin, and also got to baptize my eldest. Sweet special blessings, that I'm so thankful for. We sure do love you Dewey!!

Fun Fact Friday: Fun Devotions with the Kiddos

Hey y'all. I had this idea to share the love on some good ideas and tips that I've recently found for family devotions. If you know me, you already know that I'm probably not the sharpest knife in the drawer and I'm not creative in the 'coming up with my own ideas' sense of the word (or probably any other sense of the word). But, I am smart enough to know a good thing when I see or hear it.

Just recently, our church's children's minister Jennifer has been facilitating a class on parenting. It is precisely this kind of thing that I'm smart enough to recognize as a good thing. I wholly admit that I can use all the help I can get on the parenting front. The class was called, "Parenting the Early Years" by Drs. Les & Leslie Parrot. There were two things that I took away from the class that we implemented in our family devotion time. And, they have been a real hit. Both of our kids enjoy them, and ask to do devotions each night.

Again, these ideas are genius, so I thought I would pass them along. The first thing we do is read a small little bible story from their "Memory Bible Verse" book. It is fairly short, but includes a bible verse and a practical application. Then, (taken from the class) we play the MAD, SAD, GLAD game. It is a game where each family member goes around the table and tells what made them mad, sad, and glad that day. You'll be surprised what you hear, or at least I was. This just gives them a way to open up about what's going on in their mind. It also provides Brad & I with the opportunity to explain that certain of their behaviors disappointed us, without being "in the heat" of the moment. It would sound something like, "you know, mommy was sad today when you did this..." or, "mommy was really glad when I saw you doing this" We found we could use it as reinforcement. But, we don't always do that, sometimes we just share something generic about our day that truly made us mad, sad, or glad. The kids super love this, and I think it's brilliant. Kudos to the Parrots.

The other thing we took away from the class was a method for family prayer. Before I learned about this, we just took turns letting each child pray. Obviously, there was/is nothing wrong with that. But, the new technique just helps guide them in being a little more specific. I don't really know if the video said how they implemented it, but what we do, (to make it seem more like a prayer) is have us all hold hands around the table. Then, each person completes the first sentence, then you go around the table with the second sentence, then the third and then the fourth. Here they are:

1. God, I love you because....
2. Jesus, I'm thankful for.....
3. God, I'm sorry for.....
4. Jesus, could I have _______ please?

The reason I love it so much is that it incorporates all elements of prayer (praise, thanksgiving, repentance, and petition). I don't know about y'all, but my kids would only ask forgiveness of the person whom they offended. I don't know that I ever heard them or had them ask for forgiveness from God (I'm telling you, parent of the year, right here). My kids prayed just fine, but I would like them to get in the habit early of showing praise and thankfulness, and expressing apologies when needed, and voicing their needs too. And, the cool thing about it is, that eventually their prayer of petition (#4) will be answered and can be turned in to a prayer of thankfulness (#2). Can you see why this is a stroke of genius. Oh, and when everyone has answered all four statements of prayer.....we all say "AMEN" together (the kids especially like that).

And, since this post is already longer than the constitution. Let me just share something else. At first, when we came to the sentence of petition (#4) Bryce would always ask for material things...a new transformer or whatever. But, as Brad & I took our turns we would ask for spiritual things, like wisdom or whatever we happened to need that day. And, we would also explain to Bryce that sometimes we should ask Jesus for things that would help us be more like him. So, yesterday Bryce had a little episode and lost his temper. When he got to number 3, he said that he was sorry for disobeying, and I asked him what he thought he did that was disobedient and I reminded him of his fit. Well, everybody else took their turn for number 3. Then we got to number 4, and Brad asked for wisdom. When it was Bryce's turn, he asked Jesus to help him control his temper. Y'all, I nearly bawled right then and there (but, I didn't). I think the light bulb went off and it clicked with him. Now, I'm sure he'll still be asking for transformers or whatever, too; but I'm glad to know that he realizes there are other things that Jesus wants to give us.

The FACT is, family devotions are a really FUN way to teach our kids about Jesus. If you have something you do in your family that is brilliant, or works especially well, I'd sure love to hear it. I think I mentioned that I need all the help I can get.

And, thanks Jennifer, for hosting the parenting class! We're so thankful for all that you're doing for our kids and our families!!

Fun Fact Friday: I'm a maniac

Well, it happened. I have turned in to that crazy mother. We all know the one. The mom sitting in the stands, um scratch that, the mom standing in the stands, screaming her head off, and waving her arms like crazy. Yep, that was me. I really don't know what happens. One minute I'm this normal person sitting in the stands and the next, I'm a cheerleader on steroids. Believe me, this is no pretty picture, but it's unstoppable.


Last night was the start of a Pre-Season Double Elimination T-Ball Tournament. Did you hear that people? A pre-season tournament....for T-Ball? Quite frankly, I thought the concept was a bit over the top.....especially since the parents (or any visitor) had to pay $1 to watch!! Are you kidding me, people? Anyway, all that changed when the game started.

Bryce has played T-Ball for the last two years. Technically, I think his first year he played he was really too young. But, what I'm saying is that he has two years on most of his team mates, although there are a few others who have played before as well. This particular association if very serious about their sports, and they play the better players up front unlike the last two years when every kid took a turn in every position. I did not know all this going in to it. When I signed up, I was not banking on a pre-season, double elimination tournament. But, with all that being said, Bryce was the lead off batter and he was up front when fielding, so that he could get the ball and get runners out.

The first inning, we took a beating. Our opponents scored 7 runs to our 1 (which was Bryce). But the second inning, they only scored two runs and we came back and scored 8. So, we were tied. My heart was absolutely racing. Coach put a runner on second and put Bryce up to bat. (apparently, that is the international rulebook way of handling a tie.....who knew there was an international rulebook) I had a quick word of prayer and he got a hit. Then, the team mate after Bryce got a hit, and our runner scored and so did Bryce. Whew.....sigh of relief. But, just let me describe the chaos that was the front row of the bleachers when Bryce was turing 3rd and heading for home. I think every last one of us was on our feet. GDaddy, Aunt Shelley, my mom, Bayley, me & Brad. I was holding Sara Kate (who was asleep) and waving my hands and hollering....it was truly hilarious. But, it wasn't just me. Oh, no ma'am, my mama was every bit as bad as I was. She was standing up, and had gotten right up to the fence to hoop & holler. We're real classy!!

And, if you thought that was bad. You should have seen us when our oppenents were out there having there last chance. The coach put Bryce right out front and instructed him, that if the batter hit the ball, to get it and run to 1st. According to the international rule book, there is an automatic two outs, so all we needed was one out. Well, sure enough the batter hit the ball......right to Bryce. He got it, and hustled all the way to first base, and got the runner out. Our coach was so excited that he ran over to Bryce and hoisted him in the air. By this time, my nerves were shot!!

The fact is, I turn in to a maniac when it comes to cheering for my kids. Now, I'm not one of these crazy T-ball folks that argues with the ref or is ugly or rude. That would not be fun at all. No, I'm just an over zealous cheerleader. And, really its not just for my kids. Unfortuantely, I'm like that with all of them. I'm telling you, it's the in-grained cheerleader coming out in me.

But, you know, I make no apologies. Our kids need a little cheering every so often. And, almost without fail, I think about how God must cheer for us when we do something great for His glory. It makes me want to be pleasing to Him when I see how much joy I get out of seeing my kids work hard and do something good. I want to give God a reason to cheer!!

That's it for Fun Fact Friday. I'm loud & I'm proud. What can I say?? We play game 2 of the tournament Saturday.....heaven help me. If you hear something around 1:00 or so, it's probably me. I'm leaving you with a few pictures from the game. Enjoy!

Bryce warming up before the game. He's the one about to throw. Check out his wind up.

Bryce at one of his at-bats. Sorry it's fuzzy, there's just no good way to take a picture from the stands. I think he was getting ready to swing here.

Bryce after getting the game winning out. He was totally pumped!!

Fun Fact Friday

In my heart and mind, there is absolutely nothing fun about today's fact. Today is the day that we remember our sweet Saviour's sacrifice for us. Today is the day, many years ago, that he was beaten, scorned, spat on, tortured, and finally crucified....for us. Today is the day that he had to watch his earthly mother agonize over his death. Today is the day that our God & King had to watch his only son be killed....for us. Today is the day, it was finished and Satan thought he had the victory.

No, there is nothing fun about today's fact. Nothing at all.....but it is something else. It is freeing. It is full of hope. It is full of promise. It is full of Love like no other. And, it really is FACT. Christ died today to make us new, to cleanse us, and to save us. Christ died today so that we could spend eternity with him in Heaven.

Let's all walk in HIS victory today. Let's all remember and be grateful for the hope and promise that is ours. Don't let Satan convince you this weekend that you are defeated, NO MATTER WHAT THE CIRCUMSTANCE. He was wrong many years ago, and he still is. The Victory is ours, thanks to the cross.

Bask in and enjoy your Resurrection Morning.

Fun Fact Friday

The Fun Fact for the day is that Brad & I are going to the Steven Curtis Chapman concert tonight. It was completely unplanned and last minute, and I am so excited. It has been several years since we've even been to a concert at all....something I used to do very frequently in my younger days.

The funny part of the story is that this all came about because my best friend Tammy made a deal with Sara Kate. Sara Kate was promised last Saturday that she could spend the night with them tonight if she had no 'potty accidents' this week. Trust me, Sara Kate reminded me this morning of her success. And the rest is history. So, a big THANK YOU goes out to Eric & Tammy for giving us a kid-free evening on just the right night. Brad got on line and secured tickets this morning, and we're off to the show.

That my friends, is a fact that's fun. Oh, yes ma'am, fun indeed.

Fun Fact Friday

Hey out there!!

I've been waiting for a full week to bring my little fact to you today. It was all I could do not to post it sooner, because, by my estimation I have us some information that is both factual and fun. In fact, if we were to compare the two, we would be hard pressed to decide which attribute or requirement were more true. It is very factual, but holy cow, I could have myself a lot of fun with this one.

I stumbled on this tid-bit last week while reading Big Mama's Fashion Friday post; which, by the way, I think is very fun. Anyhow, she introduced me to a company that has darling jewelry (and other things) at fabulous prices. And, when I say fabulous, I truly mean fabulous. It seems to me, that these prices are better than the prices at Jewelry and Handbag Warehouse. The only thing that would make me think otherwise would be that we'll have to pay shipping on our orders, but even that's not bad considering the J & H Warehouse is a good 45 minutes from where I live and gas and taxes would probably be comparable to shipping anyhow.

So, check out Sam Moon. I mean look at this, and this, and this. Is that fabulous or what?

Now, most of ya'll who know me, know that I'm not a huge accessory person. I've always wanted to be, and I like the way accessories really finish off an outfit. But, I've either been to cheap to buy the stuff, or in too much of a hurry while dressing to find everything and put it on. But, with prices like Sam Moon offers, I could eliminate at least one deterrent. I'll just have to find a new love for my alarm clock to remedy the other.

I haven't ordered anything yet, but I've got my eyes on some things, and I want to kind of look at the stuff in my closet to order the fewest things to match the most clothes (I'm cheap, cheap, cheap). And, can I also mention that I think some of these pieces would make great, inexpensive gifts. I know, I would have a smile on my face if someone were to give me something from there. (Brad are you listening? -- ) Oh, how I kid!!

Hope you have fun with it! Happy Friday everybody!

It just can't wait.....

OK Folks, I am so excited; and after you read this post, the old addage, "it's just the small things" will never ring more true. But, I am so excited that I'm doing my Fun Fact early this week, because I have myself a fact that is too important to follow the normal rules and 'day of the week' stipulations. This fact, my friend, truly follows the almanac definition of useful; because I know who my friends are, and better yet, I know who my friend's children are.....and I'd be willing to bet, you just might find this little fact handy!!!

The Fact Is: Your handy-dandy fingernail polish remover (good 'ole acetone) WILL, in fact, remove ink from a silver SHARPIE off of your (relatively new) FLAT SCREEN computer monitor. That's right folks, the Sharpie, she ain't so permanent after all.

This Fun Fact was brought to you today direct from Sara Kate, the menace to all that is good and orderly. Despite, repeated instructions to the contrary....did I mention REPEATED instructions to the contrary, she decided to 'color' on the computer monitor with a SILVER Sharpie. Never mind, that because of her 'artistic flair' we bought her an art easle for her birthday that has a chalkboard, dry erase board, and the ability to clip paper to either side. Did you hear that people? She has 3 different possibilities with which to express herself to her obedient delight, not to mention that she has paint, crayons, colored pencils and markers at her disposal. But, no, she chooses to get the silver sharpie off of mommy's desk and go to town on the monitor. The only thing to say about that is, "Bless her heart!"

Anyway, special thanks must be made to my new friends at Wikipedia for being thorough in their information about what will remove the permanent ink. And, many shout-outs go to the makers of Finger Nail Polish Remover world wide. With out you, I'd have to read every email through......a silver lining.

But, since I mentioned it, there actually is a silver lining to this post. It is that I now know what might actually take the Blue Sharpie stains off of my kitchen table that were put there by the same culprit many months ago. Yes, folks, this was not her first attempt with the Sharpie medium. Apparently, my stern discussion about what can and can not be drawn on were not taken to heart. Anyway, I must go now, and test my theory.

It's a good thing she's cute!!!


I posted this picture to remind myself, that just because she looks like an angel, doesn't mean she acts like one!!!

So Many Things....

I kind of have another hodge podge on my hands; and while that makes my heart just a little giddy I can almost hear the collective moans, because even a few topics of conversation can keep me talking way too long, but the prospect of 'many things' may just keep you here for eternity.....or until you get bored and decide it's finally time to unload the dishwasher. Anyway.....

First up, I have some saint-hood nominations to pass along. So, hear ye, hear ye I now declare that my parents are indeed Saints. Now, anyone who knows me, knows that I am a family girl. My family and I are very close....all of us, my parents, my brother, and my sister and her family.....and I've stated more than once that, I'm a momma's & a daddy's girl. Always have been, always will be.

But ya'll, my parents really are saints.....for SO many reasons. I wouldn't have the time to list all of the reasons, but the reason I'm writing today is that they are wholly devoted to and supportive of their children and grandchildren (probably more so to the grandchildren, but that's their right isn't it?) Anytime, I (or any of us) have some endeavor, mom & dad always help out. No matter what it is.

I remember back a few years ago, when I wanted to make my own purse. I had purchased one from a seamstress that made them, and it was kind of expensive, and I knew mom & dad could make them. So, that year, Brad got me a sewing machine for Christmas...and the entire weekend after Christmas, my sister, Mom & Dad made pocketbooks. Dad had taken apart (literally) the purse that I bought, and had made a template or pattern and he even figured out how to line it with a very thin plastic. Mom helped us with the cutting out, and actual sewing. And Shelley and I ended up with some beautiful home-made pocketbooks of our own. It has just never occured to my parents that they couldn't do something. They are amazing!

More recently, I needed to make A LOT of prailine popcorn. Naturally, I went to mom and dads, and they helped me crank it out in an assembly line manner. Now, don't get me wrong, it still took the better part of 5 hours, but we got it done....all 18 gallons.

And, I can't even begin to scratch the surface with their devotion to the kids. GDaddy & Granda have hand-made special beds and all kinds of things. But, it's not just the things, it's the time. And they spend lots of time with them. Lots.

So, thanks mom & dad, for all you do and for loving us with every ounce that is in you. I wish I could do so much more than a phony nomination on a blog that is read by you and 3 other people. But, I love you and I appreciate you and I wanted to be sure you knew that!!



Next up, My Fun Fact of the day (I know you thought I forgot didn't you...) is about Tres Dias. The FACT is, Tres Dias really is a "must" experience. It is an entire weekend where you can focus totally and completely on your relationship with Christ. How many times in your life can you honestly say, "I spent the weekend, the entire weekend with my savior?" If you're like me, not so many. But, I have spent a full weekend with my King and I am the better for it. Each Tres Dias weekend is different. Different in many ways in fact, but one thing remains the same: God absolutely convinces you that He LOVES you UNCONDITIONALY. If you are remotely interested, please comment or email me. Brad & I would love to sponsor you. Tres Dias: The fact is, it's fun!! And, more than fun, your spiritual walk will strengthen to boot!!

Well, there was/is so much more to say. But, alas, it is 11:42 p.m., and if I actually want to get my Fun Fact in on a Friday this time, it has to be now or never. So, I'll save my other ramblings for other days. But, just to quickly (if that's possible) give you a preview, I'll be posting soon on my Love/Hate relationship to Lowe's and our new fence that we (dad & Brad) are building. That should be for some entertainment......or at least it's better than doing the dishes.

Until then.....

Fun Fact Friday

Ya'll, what in the world was I thinking??? I can't come up with a new Fun Fact every week. Oh the stress and pressure I've placed willingly on my shoulders. Since I pretty much 'got' nothing,....... because really ya'll I'm not that much fun afterall, I thought I would share with you the fun blogs I read when I get a chance. So here goes.

There are three blogs that I came across from the comments on Beth Moore's blog, that I try to read weekly. All three of them are regular moms, but they've kind of made a name for themselves in the blogging world. Probably because they're funny, or at least I think so, but a few of them do fun giveaways and idea sharing posts from time to time; and I always think it is fun to read the ideas (about anything and everything) that work for other moms. So, if you find yourself with a few minutes of down time, head on over too:

RocksInMyDryer

Boomama

Bigmama

The Rocksinmydryer site hosts Works for me Wednesdays which is an interesting read. I never have the time or patience to sit and read each link, but there are some neat ideas out there from other moms. And it's easy to pick and choose what you want to read. She also does a lot of giveaways, which is designed to bring traffic to other blogs used for business.

I like the boomama site because she just has a fun sense of humor. Its kind of like a blog about nothing......it has a strange resemblance to a Seinfeld episode.

The bigmama site is just a fun read also. She is a stay at home mom, and blogs about family life.

So there you go folks......thats all I have. Maybe next week I'll have some Fabulous Fact that will make up for the lack luster one you just read.

Until next time

Fun Fact Friday

It's Friday, so it's time for our Fun Fact. I know ya'll have been anticipating this moment for a whole week now, so without further ado, here it is. And, just because ya'll have been waiting so long, I'm going to throw in a bonus for you. I know, I know, what a happy day!! (I do hope you're reading this with the appropriate amount of sarcasm)

#1- Ya'll probably know that I participate in a children's consignment sale twice a year. Well, it's that time of year again, so its coming up. If you want the information, you can find it here . One word (scratch that...one paragraph) of disclaimer: sometimes the sale is really good, sometimes not so much. It's kind of like shopping for antiques, you just have to go and see whats there. And, here are a few tips I've learned along the way. First, if you consign you get to shop before it opens to the public, this has proven to be helpful because the first day is CRAZY. I haven't decided if I'm consigning this year or not. But, to give you an idea I would usually make around $100 (I only sale Bryce's because I'm saving Sara Kate's for Malley) which would just be used to offset my purchases. Second, whenever you go, its best to take a laundry basket or something to help carry your selections. Third, it seems that the selection and quality is better the smaller size needed. I've found that it doesn't seem like there is as good of a selection for older kids sizes. That is especially true for BOYS. In fact, the older my kids get the more likely I will stop shopping at the sale. Fourth, you really need to inspect the clothes. Lets face it, they are used. I've found some great deals and good clothes, but I've also gotten home and found some flaws too. It usually is still worth it because I pay so little for the clothes, that even if I use them for play clothes it pays off. You don't need brand new clothes to go out, play in, and get dirty. Also, if its play clothes you need/want, you might want to consider waiting until the last day when almost everything goes half price. Sometimes, I go back on the last day just to get play clothes. So there it is, I'm not sure how much Fun this Fact was, but maybe this time it will serve as practical or useful.

#2- Again, maybe not so fun, but some would consider it a lifesaver. Here goes: A friend of mine, who shall remain nameless, told me about this wonderful product. This wonderful, life saving product. It is for all of the "Sweaters" in the world.....and I don't mean the fashionable knit or wool article of clothing.....I mean those of us who sweat like, well, like.....um A LOT! If you're like me, it's an issue of the most unfortunate kind. Anyway, for your persnickity pits, I present to you......drumroll please.......Secret Clinical Strength. It is a wonder deodorant if I've ever seen one. As well it should be, 'cause one tube is almost $8, yes I said, $8. I only use it the days that I'm going somewhere due to said exorbitant price. But it does work. This ain't your momma's deodorant, you put it on at night.....don't ask me why, consult the directions....it's something about body temperature. But, anyway, it says it will remain even if you shower the next morning. I'll let you be the guinea pig there, 'cause I always apply in the morning. So, if you have the same delicate problem, heres the answer for you.......try it out, and let me know.



Until next time.....

Hodge-Podge

My pastor uses this term a lot in his sermons when he wants to talk/teach/preach about several different things in the same sermon. It's funny, he all but apologizes when he tells us that he has a hodge podge (which means jumble) for us; but I must admit, I love it. He'll finish up his first point and then he'll say, "Now, we're going to put a period right there, and move on." Something about that appeals to my little (huge) bent towards organization. Not to mention, that when you have several different things to say, you have to choose your words carefully....there's no time to beat around the bush, and there's no time to sugar coat. So, Dewey, if you're reading this (which I know you're not) I happen to love the hodge podge and I feel it's definitely time for another one; but maybe you should clear that with God first. By the way, in the off chance that you are reading this, let me recommend some good reading material to you. :)


Anyway, in true Dewey style I have one heck of a hodge podge for you!! This post is just going to have a little bit of everything, so brace yourself.


First order of business: Most of you know (all 3 of you) that we are in the process of adopting a little girl from China. We have been in "the process" for 3 years now. I had planned to set up a blog when we got closer to travelling to bring her home so that everyone could see pictures and read of our travels (you know, 'cause we're so interesting and the writers strike may just be still going on then). Well, the wait time has grown and grown and we've just been waiting and waiting and there really isn't a whole lot of news to share, but I've been reading a lot of adoption blogs in my spare time {read while I'm neglecting the laundry and dishes} and I just thought I might go ahead and set it up. Then, one day, when we have our little Malley home she can go back and read just how much we longed for her and waited for her.....and it will give me an outlet as well. So, our adoption blog is malaganssong.blogspot.com; I will post to it as things happen. When we finally have her home, I'll just have it as a reference (like Sara Kate's E coli. blog) and we'll have all the other family business on this one. And, yes, it was the extreme need for organization(mine) and understanding(yours) that I felt like I had to share that last bit with you.


Moving on (notice the period).


Order number two: Fun Fact Friday. If you remember, in my very first post I stated that I was going to try to keep with the tradition of a real almanac by giving 'useful and practical' facts. Now, I use those terms very loosely because while some of them may have been useful and practical, others have been anything but. Others...maybe even most, were just down right silly. Hello? I didn't name it "FUN" Fact for nothing. Anyway, I digress. I confess that I have done a grave injustice to my faithful readers, because most of the time I just down right forget to include one. So, in the spirit of Works for Me Wednesday from rocksinmydryer.net (which, by the way, if you haven't checked out you should) I am going to do Fun Fact Friday. I know I know, so corny, yet so fun. But, it actually serves two purposes. Believe it or not, there are times when I just don't have a lot to say to you folks. This will give me something to post every Friday. Now, I'm not saying you're going to get life changing facts here. I'm just saying, you'll (hopefully) have something to read.


Order number three: Then and Now. This is just another idea to give us amateur bloggers something to post. I came up with this in the wee hours of the morning when I couldn't turn my brain off long enough to sleep. The sad part about that is, I wasn't worried about anything (mom, I'm serious, you can pick yourself up off the floor; I hope you didn't throw your back out). I really wasn't, I just had all these thoughts about nothing roaming around in my head. That, coupled with the fact that Brad snores like a freight train makes for one sleepless night. Anyway, one of those random thoughts was that it might be fun to post "then and now" pictures of the kids.....and maybe even of us (or maybe not). We all have them on our computer and they are just sitting there. So, we might as well post them and enjoy them together. It will be fun to watch them age digitally, don't you think? But, here's the catch. I can't be alone here. Because, I can compare pics of my kids anytime I want to; but I can't see yours. So, when you find yourself at a loss for words, post pictures. In closing, I would like to know why my "wee morning hour" Epiphanies couldn't be something a little more original and significant......like an invention or something.

So, behold my first THEN and NOW:

THEN: BRYCE on 8.28.02 at 9 lbs. 14 oz

THEN: SARA KATE on 11.22.04 at 8 lbs.

NOW: BRYCE (5) and SARA KATE (3)

December 2007