Happy Days

Our First Anniversary!

2008-06-02T19:10:00.002-04:00

It's hard to believe Paul and I celebrated our first wedding anniversary today! It has been an absolutely wonderful year. I'm amazed by the man that God has given me as my husband. We've had such a fun first year! I truly did marry my best friend.

We spend the weekend in ATL. It was a blast. We went to the Zoo, the Aquarium, and the World of Coke. We also ate at some yummy spots, including Ruth's Chris steakhouse. Ahhh...a little taste of heaven.

I heart these

2008-05-21T18:57:00.002-04:00

These are 10 of My Favorite things right now:
1. Healthy food (even if it is expensive)
2. Learning the ropes at NewSpring for my new job!
3. The way God has been giving me opportunities to talk to family members about Him.
4. Running (it's about time I started enjoying it again!)
5. Looking forward to my anniversary trip with my hubby!
6. Reading lots and lots of fiction
7. My students that I teach
8. The warm weather
9. Reconnecting with old friends!
10. Twittering

26

2008-05-04T19:34:00.005-04:00

Today is Paul Wilson's birthday. He's the big 2-6. Catching up with me fast! ;) Thank you God for creating the perfect man for me 26 years ago today. I don't deserve him.

He's super cute too.

Changes

2008-05-01T14:28:00.003-04:00

So it's been awhile since I've posted. It's been a busy 12ish months...I've gotten married (to the hottest and most wonderful man in the world), moved, began leading a home group, started a new job, resigned from that job, and accepted a new job! Whew!
Oh, and I've also gained about 5 unwanted pounds that I'm working hard on getting rid of. :)
Anyway, life is good. God is good. I'm very happy. God has really done amazing things in my life and I'm so thankful to Him. I am currently teaching 3rd grade at a wonderful school in Simpsonville, but I won't be returning next year. I've felt the Lord leading me to ministry for the past year and a half, but the timing hasn't been right. Well, when I found out NewSpring was coming to Greenville and there were some job openings, I finally got the go! I will be the new Assistant to the Greenville Campus Pastor and I'm SO PUMPED! I cannot wait to see what God does in Greenville through our church. You can read about it here!

Hello Blog

2008-04-09T12:16:00.000-04:00

Ok. I may give you a try again. Maybe...

2007-12-27T19:18:00.000-05:00

update

2007-06-20T14:56:00.001-04:00

i'm married. i love it. more to come!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAUL!

2007-05-04T08:25:00.000-04:00

I LOVE YOU AND HOPE YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL BIRTHDAY!

Whirlwind

2007-05-02T14:43:00.000-04:00

describes my life perfectly right now. I have a new job for next year closer to my house so I'm packing up my classroom, and PACT testing begins next week. Not to mention all the last minute wedding plans. But I'm thankful for all of the activity going on. It will help this month go by quickly I hope! I get to marry the most wonderful man in the world one month from today-June 2! I can't believe it's almost here! Everything is really starting to come together. I can't wait!
I also get to see David Copperfield last night at the Peace Center. It was pretty awesome. I still can't figure out how he does all those tricks!

Pics

2007-04-17T14:33:00.000-04:00

So this past weekend Paul and I had the fun opportunity to get our engagement pics made! Lanna, one of the most talented photographers I know, took them in downtown Greenville, mainly the West End. It was fun. I felt like a model. A 5'1" model. Plus I got to cuddle up with Paul in the pics, and that's always good. ;) Can't wait to see them!
46 days till the wedding! Woo hoo!!!

2007-03-28T11:56:00.001-04:00

I met my husband-to-be one year ago today! A lot can happen in a year!
I love you Paul!!!

I'm weak

2007-03-13T12:56:00.000-04:00

Even though I vowed to never ever go back, I'm going to the tanning bed. Yes, I'm weak. But pasty white skin just doesn't look good in pictures or in a white dress. So hopefully this will be my last season of the fake-n-bake.
I'm also getting impatient. I'm ready to be married to Paul! Will June 2 ever get here?!?!?
Lastly, God is teaching me great things in 1 Corinthians. It's amazing how you can read something so many times, and then you read it again and get totally new things out of it.

92 days until...

2007-03-02T08:40:00.000-05:00

Paul and I are finally married! I'm sooo ready!!! The poor guy has been sick with the flu this week, and I have to say I've had SO much fun taking care of him! He's a very sweet patient, and I'm looking forward to sharing our lives together...even when we're sick and feeling horrible! I've been blessed with such a wonderful man. God is amazing.
It is also Dr. Seuss Day and I have a ridiculous red and white hat on in honor of The Cat in The Hat. I'm also about to cook green eggs and ham. But it's days like this I love being a teacher.

Great Weekend

2007-02-12T10:56:00.000-05:00

I'm finally getting all of my stuff settled into Paul's house. OUR house. That is so fun to say! Paul has been gracious enough to let me go ahead and move into our house, and he is going to move in with Kenyon until we get married. (In 110 days, but who's counting???) This will save me A LOT of money! I have the most kind and considerate fiance'! We got lots of stuff cleaned up/out this weekend. All this moving has been quite a task, but well worth it! The cats are moving in on Wednesday. (Happy Valentine's Day Paul! ;) ) I'm really excited about everything, and a little stressed with all of the changes. That's life! Just trying to focus on the end result-our marriage, our life together. Now, THAT is exciting!
Church was AMAZING this weekend. God has blessed us our church with an outstanding staff and volunteers. 250 salvations. Attendance of 9, 260 people. Wow is all I can say!

Registering, Dresses, Etc.

2007-01-29T12:44:00.000-05:00

Paul and I had our first pre-marital counseling session last Wednesday. It was really fun! I like getting to tell our story and why I love and want to marry Paul!
Paul and I finished (I think) registering this weekend! We're now registered at Dillard's, Bed Bath and Beyond, and Pottery Barn. I've had so much fun registering with my husband to be! We've had to compromise on a few items, but for the most part we have the same taste and easily agree on things.
And...I FOUND A DRESS! And bought it! It's definitely not what I had imagined. Much better. :) Also, found bridesmaids dresses. God has blessed me with the sweetest and most helpful bridesmaids! And they all looked beautiful trying on their dresses!
We had a shrimp boil for Jason Embler's birthday on Saturday night. Lots of fun.
Oh, and both of my roommates moved out yesterday! Anyone up for helping me pack/move?

2007-01-29T08:34:00.000-05:00

sign our guestbook!

June 2, 2007

2007-01-16T13:11:00.000-05:00

is when I become Mrs. Paul Anson Wilson. Oh yeah.

I'm engaged! part 2

2007-01-10T14:44:00.000-05:00

Sorry the details are so late coming! But here they are...
So as you know, Paul told me he had a surprise for me on Saturday. He picked me up around 10:30 and we headed towards Easley. By this time, I knew we were going on a picnic. But that was not all! We ended up in Dacusville at Eden Farms. I was so excited because I love horses (used to show and own them) and I had not ridden in such a long time! So now I knew we were going on a trail ride AND have a picnic lunch! It was just the two of us plus the guide on our ride. We rode around for about an hour and then we went to an area where we were met by two other riders with our lunch that Paul had packed. They all left, so it was just the two of us. At this point I started getting suspicious so I couldn't really eat much. :) Well, when we were finished eating Paul started to tell me all the reasons he wanted me to be his wife one day, and then he got on one knee and proposed! I of course said YES!!! It was such a beautiful day, in between two days where it POURED! All God. It's been all God throughout our whole relationship, which is so encouraging. My ring is absolutely stunning. I had the biggest smile for the rest of the ride after that! It keeps getting better...We went back to Greenville to Paul's parents' house and showered. Then we went to downtown Greenville for my birthday (and engagement celebration as it turns out :) ) dinner at Lemongrass. I was so amazed...there were like 30 people there! 30 of my closest friends and family. It was perfect. Perfect day, perfect fiance', perfect ring, perfect dinner...
This has really amplified all that God has done in my life over the past 2(almost) years. He has blessed me more than I will ever deserve.
All in all, I get to marry my best friend and spend the rest of my life with him, loving him and learning how to be a Godly wife. I can't wait!

I'm engaged!!!

2007-01-06T22:52:00.000-05:00

Paul asked me to marry him today and I'm indescribably happy. Details to come...

27

2007-01-04T10:33:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was my birthday...I turned 27. I have to say that it was an awesome birthday, even though it was my first real day back at work, and I am feeling pretty old. God has blessed me with the most amazing boyfriend, friends, co-workers, and family. I got so many calls, text messages, cards, and emails wishing me a happy birthday! Paul, best boyfriend ever btw, came and ate lunch with me at school (with beautiful FLOWERS)...he even brought me Zaxby's, complete with my favorite, fried mushrooms! Definitely made my first day back wonderful! We went out to eat that night at Sullivan's. Unfortunately, Paul IS being VERY cruel and making me wait until Saturday for my present! I'm dying! And I believe he's loving every second of my suspense!!! :)
Thanks for the great birthday everyone!

Happy New Year!

2007-01-03T08:54:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone has a wonderful 2007. I had a pretty awesome 2006, and I'm really looking forward to 2007! Today I turn 27, so I officially feel OLD. :) Old, but verrrry happy!

Christmas

2006-12-25T22:38:00.000-05:00

I just had the BEST Christmas ever. Really.
Paul took me to the Biltmore House on Friday. We got up early and beat the crowd (good thinking Paul). Even though it was pouring down rain, we had the best time! I've never been, and I was amazed by the house. We also toured the green houses and winery. That night, we went to Paul's cousin's house for a family get together.
Saturday, church at New Spring. Awesome as always. The sermon really helped put the importance of Christmas into perspective. It's a shame we (myself definitely included) get so caught up in shopping, rushing around, and spending money that we forget we're celebrating the birth of Jesus. After church, my family, Paul, and I went to eat and looked at Christmas lights. (I have to admit, I was a little disappointed in the Pelzer lights this year!) Fun times!
On Sunday, more church at New Spring...getting my greet on, as I like to say. :) Paul and I exchanged Christmas presents that evening. Then we went to his family's house, ate, and opened presents. Paul has an absolutely amazing family by the way.
Today, we went to my brother and sister-in-law's house for Christmas brunch with my family. We opened presents by the fire and watched Christmas Vacation (best movie ever). I was in a rush when we were heading to my brother's and I left my car on. You know, not running, but just enough for the radio to be on so that I could get a CD out. So when we got back to my house, my car was of course dead. So after a romantic Christmas dinner at Super China Buffet (no, really it was!) we headed to my brother's again for jumper cables. So the ol' Metro is up and running again! Hooray! We then went BACK to my brother's for some Trivial Pursuit, which Paul and I (okay really just Paul) kicked butt at. :) It was so nice just to spend some good ol' quality time with the most important people in my life.
So all of that said, Christmas was awesome. I've always associated this time of year with some not-so-happy memories. Not this year, thanks to some new additions to my life! ;) This really was the best Christmas ever.

Paul and Me in Little Switzerland

2006-12-19T15:25:00.000-05:00

shout out

2006-12-15T11:52:00.000-05:00

This is a shout out to Joyce and Karen, the two BEST librarians, and faithful readers. :) They make me update my blog! Enjoy your break ladies!

Christmas MEME

2006-12-14T10:27:00.000-05:00

Christmas MEME
1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Egg Nog (my brother makes an awesome batch)
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just set them under the tree? when I was little, no wrap, but it might have been more fun to have them wrapped
3. Colored Light on Tree/House or White? White, especially outside. Paul has a warped mind with his love for colored lights. How can I love someone who is so twisted?! :)
4. Do you hang mistletoe? No, but great idea
5. When do you put up your decorations? As soon as Thanksgiving is over
6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? sausage balls...they are heavenly
7. Favorite holiday memory as a child? My grandfather (pronounced "grindiddy") always came over early to watch us get our Santa Claus presents and we'd have a big breakfast
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? I heard the rumor at school, so I confronted my mom to learn the awful truth THREE DAYS BEFORE CHRISTMAS! tragic.
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? absolutely
10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree? white lights but an assortment of ornaments, especially old, sentimental ones
11. Snow. Love it or dread it? I absolutely love it! I love playing in it, and then coming in and warming up by a fire.
12. Can you ice skate? If it can be called that. The hard part is stopping, easy part is falling
13. Do you remember your favorite gift? definitely my horse Oreo that I got in 4th grade
14. What’s the most important thing about Christmas to you? Jesus of course. I also just love relaxing and getting to spend lots of time with family and friends.
15. What is your favorite holiday dessert? pecan pie
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? big breakfast on Christmas morning, driving around looking at Christmas lights
17. What tops your tree? a star
18. Which do you prefer, giving or receiving? giving, but I do love me some receiving too!
19. What is your favorite Christmas song? O Holy Night
20. Candy Canes. Yuck or Yum? Well, if they're around I'll eat them, but I don't really look forward to them

I'm tagging:
Lee
Andrea
Angela

I FINISHED!

2006-12-13T14:47:00.000-05:00

I made it! I finished the half marathon. And with only a slight pulled muscle in my right leg. My time was two hours nine minutes, and I ran a 9:51 pace. Definitely NOT fast, much slower than I used to be, but faster than the pace I was training at. Not too bad for less than a year after my surgery! It was lots of fun. Definitely helped having Kim to run with, and Paul waiting on me at the finish line. (Have I mentioned that I have THE BEST boyfriend in the world???) So, now I'm enjoying a week or two with NO RUNNING! :)

2006-12-07T09:16:00.000-05:00

I'm in desperate need of Christmas vacation. I'm totally exhausted, but trying to keep a good attiutde in the meantime. My life is great, and I'm having fun. God is good. He always gives me the energy I need to get through the day.
Last weekend was a BLAST! A group of us went up to Paul's mountain cabin in Tryon, NC. Seven girls, seven guys. Paul took some amazing pics, as always. It was busy, but relaxing and refreshing at the same time. We ate lots of delicious food (thanks to Paul and Kenyon), shot guns (well, not me), rode 4-wheelers, made smores and roasted marshmallows (and some grapes, gross by the way-don't try it) over bonfires, playes lots of "mafia", and did lots of other fun things. Good times had by all.
I FINALLY have my half marathon this weekend! I'm excited, but a little nervous too. Okay, very nervous. I'm definitely ready to get it over with. I'm thankful God has allowed my knee to hold up through all of the training. Thanks to everyone (especially a certain good looking guy named Paul, and my running partner Kim) for encouraging me! Couldn't have done it without you all!
On a final note, I had a good laugh at myself last week. Our science specialist makes vocabulary cards to post on the wall for each unit we teach. For the past 9 weeks I've been teaching sound and motion. I couldn't figure out what a certain word was-punos. I thought perhaps it was some Spanish word? Well, last week, I FINALLY figured it out. It happened when the word suddenly got turned "upside down". Yeah, it was sound. The sad thing is, I had been wondering why there was no "sound" card, so I'd made one myself. Luckily, I love to laugh at myself.

Thanksgiving

2006-11-29T19:17:00.000-05:00

Just have to say...best Thanksgiving weekend EVER. yep.

Gobble Gobble

2006-11-22T14:02:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I'm certainly looking forward to my favorite meal of the year...cranberry sauce, turkey, dressing...yum! I'm heading to Paul's family's tomorrow, and we're celebrating with my family on Saturday. Also looking forward to NO WORK FOR THREE DAYS! I really do have a lot to be thankful for. God has done amazing works in my life over the past two years since I became a Christian (btw best decision of my life). This past year has brought with it amazing and wonderful changes in my life. I'm very blessed. I hope everyone has a safe and fun Thanksgiving!

PS Pray for me...less than 3 weeks until my half marathon! December 9!

Longest Week.

2006-10-27T13:11:00.000-04:00

EVER. It has been a really long week. I think it's because my weekend was so awesome. On Friday, I went to the demolition derby at the Anderson fair with Paul, Taylor, Angela, and Richard. It was quite an experience and sooo much fun! Anyone up for a home group demolition derby next year? Saturday night, I celebrated with my wonderful and super-hot boyfriend. Our 6 month anniversary was on Sunday. Paul cooked me dinner and we had some awesome q.t. I'm such a lucky girl!!!
On Tuesday night, the sewage in our rental house backed up since we apparently have a tree root growing through our sewage line. Never fun. Never.
Made some family reconnections this week, and that is always fun. Interesting anyway.
This weekend is looking good, if it ever gets here. Costume par-tay on Sat night. And lots of running.
Later!

Long time, no blog...

2006-10-03T15:02:00.000-04:00

Yeah, life has been BUSY! Had a great weekend. Friday I had a wonderful time (as always) bumming out with my awesome boyfriend. Tried to catch up on some LOST. Saturday, went to a Braves game with Paul, Lindsay, and Jamie. Fun times! Ran 8 miles on Sunday morning. Felt like a 90 year old woman when I was done. Church was awesome! As always. 413 people baptized! Wow! God is truly working miracles up in that place! Dinner last night for my mom's birthday. Today, a field trip to the Clemson Botanical Gardens and Geology Museum with a bunch of 3rd graders. Result: I'm exhasted and feeling quite yucky. Tomorrow: First Wednesday service at New Spring! LOST party at my brother's afterwards. Don't miss it. Good times sure to be had by all. I'll try to post again before another month flies by... :)

WHAT?!?!?

2006-09-01T11:59:00.000-04:00

Kim and I signed up for the half marathon today! Hooray for two girls with bad knees sticking it out. But it was $69.73!!!! Shouldn't someone be paying ME to run that far? ;)

I Can't Wait!

2006-08-31T20:17:00.000-04:00

I'm so excited. I'm off to Asheville tomorrow after school for a short and much needed vacation with Paul, Lee, Jill, and Hunter. Woo hoo! Good times ahead...

Busy, Busy,

2006-08-22T16:44:00.000-04:00

busy seems to describe my life perfectly right now. School started on August 3rd and I felt like I'd barely had a break. I have a pretty good class and can't complain too much though. However I do find myself complaining a lot about getting up at 4:30 3 days a week to run BEFORE going to teach all day. But thankfully my knee is holding out wonderfully. Unfortunately my energy levels are not holding out so well. All in all, my life is going great though. In fact, I just have to brag that I have the BEST boyfriend of 4 months in the whole world. God has been VERY good to me! I also have a pretty decent brother, even if he used to tell me that I was born a tadpole http://www.leedial.com/?p=214 .

What's been going on...

2006-07-07T10:55:00.000-04:00

I haven't posted in a few days...busy busy busy. But a good kind of busy! :)
Last weekend: Friday, New Spring concert. Awesome, as expected. Good music, worship, and fireworks. It would've been perfect except someone was missing...Saturday, pool and a major sunburn. Andi and I went to Lemongrass, my favorite. Delicious as always! Sunday, church and some more pool, this time with sunscreen. Good weekend.
Monday, picked Paul up from the airport. Yay! Spent some GOOD, and I mean good, q.t. with him on Monday night. Tuesday, 4th of July festivities at Andi's parents' house. It was awesome, besides the fact that I was going on way too little sleep. ;)
Got new tires for the Metro yesterday. It drives like a dream now. You'd almost think it had MORE than 3 cylinders! Tonight, Andi's birthday festivities! Happy Birthday (yesterday) Andrea!

One more try...

2006-06-29T13:52:00.000-04:00

for the marathon. Half marathon actually. We'll see if it happens this year! I was training for it last year when my knee started bothering me, eventually leading to surgery. I did buy some new shoes for the training. So wish me luck and pray that my knee will hold up!
Anyone have fun plans for the 4th???

Good Times

2006-06-22T10:39:00.000-04:00

Got to go to the Dave Matthews concert on Tuesday night in Charlotte with Paul, Kenyon, Andi, Judith, Karla, Brent, and even Whitley got to come! The concert was awesome...I've never been to a DMB concert, so I was obviously impressed. I believe it also helps that I was with such a fun group of people. And we rocked out to Kanye West as we were leaving. That always helps. I love my friends! Thanks Kenyon for the tickets! Thanks Paul for driving yo' Suburban. Thanks Brent and Paul for the Liz sandwich. Good times for sure. Except that you apparently cannot find a public restroom in Charlotte after 12 a.m. ...

I miss the beach...

2006-06-13T13:37:00.000-04:00

Returned from a WONDERFUL trip to the beach on Sunday. After a battle with the stomach flu on Tuesday, I went to the beach on Wednesday with Paul and his family. Luckily, I did recover in time. Whew! I had such a great and relaxing time. I knew I would, but it was even better than I expected. However, it turns out I'm not as good at putt putt as bowling, but oh well. It was lots of fun. I miss the beach! Didn't want to come home, but we did come home to a great message at church! Just what I needed, seeing as I've been having the "spiritual blues" lately. And God has really been rocking my world the last few days. I'm reading an awesome book, Twelve Extraordinary Women by John MacArthur. I highly recommend it. Oh, and I have my first tomato on my tomato plants. These may be the first plants to ever survive under my care! Wish me luck (or better yet, wish them luck)!

I've gotta get out of this "I don't want to blog" mood...

2006-06-05T18:11:00.000-04:00

I went to Aaron and Meredith's wedding this weekend with Paul. It was soooo beautiful. I hope my future husband will say to me the kind of things Aaron said to Meredith. I was moved to tears. It was so awesome to see that Christ is truly the center of their relationship. That's what makes it work!
I also got to babysit Rawley some this weekend while Andrea was out of town...ok dogsit. We really bonded. He's an awesome dog. ;)
I leave for the beach on Wednesday. Yay! Will it ever get here???
My posts keep getting shorter and shorter....I'm so blog moody...

Sooo....

2006-05-30T17:58:00.000-04:00

I'm officially on summer vacation. No one hit me please, but I'm already bored. Why can't every other job have summer vacation too? (that is, a vacation that lasts a little over 2 months, not one of those one week vacations ) Hopefully I'll get a lot of reading in and get back in shape though. I'm sure I'll get used to the boredom and learn to love it. :)
We had our LOST party last Wednesday, and it was a par-tay for sure. Pics here and here. It was a great time. Nothing like watching a show projected onto the side of a house.
I had a GREAT weekend, as usual. I got to meet Paul's family on Friday night at his brother's high school graduation. And i don't just mean the immediate family, I'm talking extended too. Talk about nerves...it was great though! :) I had an awesome time.
Saturday, Andrea and I worked on our tans and GNC smoothies. Then back to her house that night to eat dinner and watch Cold Mountain...really bad ending by the way. We also got to battle a really large roach. Good times.
Sunday, church and then to Andrea's pool. A few cute guys joined us.
Monday, Memorial Day, started off at Target with Andrea. Then we went to her parent's pool where I proceeded to horrify her mom with high school stories. Sorry Lynn! ;) Kenyon and Paul joined the party. Then, we all went to Sandy's for some Memorial Day fun. You can check out Paul's pictures here. Just overlook the one where I look like I'm about to peck someone with my beak... being goofy as usual.
That's about it.

The End

2006-05-24T11:04:00.000-04:00

The end of the school year. Finally! Today was the students' last day. Still have to work tomorrow, but just the teachers. I need a vacation.
LOST party tonight at my brother's. Season finale. 2 hr. special! Come, even if you're lost about Lost. It'll be good times.
Later.

Yeeeehaw!

2006-05-20T17:30:00.000-04:00

Last night Andrea, Joel, Kenyon, Aaron, Paul, and I went to a rodeo in good 'ol Ware Shoals. It was a blast! We ate "bowled" peanuts, saw really tall cowboys and lots of confederate flags, saw a monkey barrel race on a dog, and I got bubble gum stuck to my rear end. Thanks Andrea and Kenyon for being such awesome commentators. It was a DERN good time. ;)

I have 4 more days left of school until summer break. Only 3 with students, and those are half days!

Read Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller. Awesome book.
Awesome is my favorite word. It's an awesome word.

Weekend

2006-05-08T19:18:00.000-04:00

It was an awesome weekend! On Friday, we had trivia night at church. Our team brought it, while others unfortunately did not. We came in third, 3pts ahead of another not so lucky team. :( sorry guys...okay not really. Anyway, it was lots of fun! Then to Chili's for some Cinco de Mayo action. I was out past curfew as usual.

On Saturday, I lied out in the sun at Andrea's (yes Lee, that's "Andrea with the long driveway") and got FRIED! But that's what tanning is for right? Good times. Had a chill night with some friends and a movie.

Sunday was amazing beyond words. One of the most touching services I've experienced. I am so thankful for what Jesus has done with my life. I can't even imagine where I would be today if it weren't for His grace. After the first service, I was thinking about how grateful I am that Lee and Jill never gave up on me and continued to pray for me even when I'm sure I seemed like a hopeless case. So I called up my mom (another seemingly hopeless case) and told her she needed to come to church. Well, apparently she had the same idea and she came. When Perry did the invitation, my mother actually stood up. I can't even put my feelings into words. It's a miracle. Praise God.
(oh and i hung out with a cute guy who broke my poor little metro's ashtray) ;)

Spicy Hot

2006-05-04T18:03:00.000-04:00

Work is pretty stressful right now. Testing is right around the corner...Monday! The kids are wired with the anticipation of summer break. I had 3 kids throwing up in my room on Friday, and I only have 1 bathroom, so you can imagine how that went. (Friday was our multiplication ice cream sundae party...too many helpings for some. ) So just when I'm wondering why I chose this profession, I get this picture on my desk from one of my students. All around the border it said "HOT SPICY HOT SPICY". There was a picture of me in the center wearing a shirt that says "spicy hot" and I'm saying "I am so hot and spicy!". It was hilarious! Funniest picture I've ever gotten from a student. True, in the picture I did NOT look hot and spicy, but hey-what a compliment! (even if it is from an 8 year old...)

On another note, church was awesome last night! I couldn't put it into words if I tried. Reminded me of how big and awesome our God is... why do I worry about anything when He is in control?!?! Awesome.

Watch Lost last night? Wow. I so called it with Michael...

Last weekend was great, week's been great, life is great... :)

How to Bowl

2006-04-22T13:35:00.000-04:00

So a bunch of us went bowling last night. It was SO fun! I had forgotten how much I loved to bowl. And I am a really, really, really AWFUL bowler. Except for last night-somehow I won the first game with a 157. I usually get an 80 at best. It was really weird...
My secret: walk up, drop the ball, and hope for the best. Oh, and eat lots of donuts for breakfast.

Wow!

2006-04-19T16:09:00.000-04:00

My brother got all the creative genes...just look at this masterpiece! Hollyman
No wonder Lee IS the golden child...

It's a Boy

2006-04-18T16:39:00.000-04:00

My classroom's luna moth hatched today! I was telling my class that ours must be dead, since everyone else's had already hatched. And about 30 minutes later I heard a little crunching noise. An hour later we had a bouncy (ok not so bouncy) baby boy. So cute! Pictures to be posted later.

Weekend

2006-04-16T14:39:00.000-04:00

It began with being off work on Friday...the start of a great weekend (and tan).

Friday: Elisabeth and I got pedicures/manicures, ate Chic-fil-A, and lied out in the sun. I love being a girl. Then to Greenville for a haircut (after getting lost even though Brent finally gave me great directions,it was my fault for talking on the cell...thanks Kenyon for getting me there)-thanks Melody for the new do! I do love getting my hair cut-brightens my whole week! Are guys like that? Probably not. After the haircut, out to eat with 2 cute and awesome guys. ;-)

Saturday: Greeting at Church, which is always fun! Short period of time spent in the sun. Then to Kenyon's for a cookout. We played Guesstures...great game (IF you change ALL the rules).

Sunday: EASTER at New Spring! Does it get any better? I think not. I'm so thankful that our church staff and volunteers are so creative and talented. My mom came and I think the message really shook her. Yay God! Afterwards, lunch at Lee and Jill's, while Hunter ran around sporting a GAMECOCK t-shirt (way to go Easter Bunny!!! :-< YUCK!)! Easter dinner at Sandy's=more fun.

Now I am super tired and going to sleep!

Peeps

2006-03-25T22:09:00.000-05:00

In honor of Easter, PLEASE visit this site that my brother showed me- http://www.peepresearch.org/index.html
I don't think DJ, Lee, or Jill found it quite as funny, but I laughed until I cried. I love random funny things.

AMAZED

2006-02-11T15:23:00.000-05:00

I have to say that I probably will not get any sleep tonight! I am so excited about moving into the new building! Who would have ever thought that I'd be so excited about church??? (By the way my anniversary is Feb. 13. No I don't have a mysterious boyfriend, however that would be nice too ;-). This is the anniversary of my relationship beginning with Jesus Christ! And some other unfortunate events as well...but definitely the best day of my life! ) I went to New Spring last night and I am AMAZED, as Perry said last week. I'm amazed with all that God is doing through us! My brother Lee put it as well as it can be put here. It IS about the people, not a building. I cannot wait to get in there in the morning and worhip my savior like there's no tomorrow!

Knee surgery update: going very well! Plica is all gone. It was rough for the first few days, and going back to work on Thursday after having surgery on Tuesday was a big mistake. But after about 5 days, it was so much better! I'm amazed at how quickly the body can bounce back. I was walking on the treadmill in 5 days! And hopefully I'll be back to running in a week or two. However, after seeing such rapid improvement, I seem to have hit a roadblock. I mean it's getting better, just not as quickly as I'd like. God has really been teaching me a lot about patience!!! Everytime I overdo it, my knee swells up and I have to give it a good rest. Just like in everyday life, when we don't wait on God's timing, we are usually faced with a setback.
Overall outcome: I'd take the surgery over a trip to the dentist anyday, I've gotten to spend more time with God, and He's taught me some important lessons in the meantime!

Best Gum

2006-01-13T14:27:00.000-05:00

I have a new favorite gum-Orbit. I love every flavor! I was only chewing the bubble mint, which is bubble gum flavor with a hint of mint, but I've discovered I love every flavor! They are all unique and tasty in a strange minty way. I'm chewing citrus mint right now...who would've ever thought to mix mint with bubble gum or citrus flavor??? Pure genius...
I'm off to Charleston this weekend...staying on my uncle's boat (aka yacht-lol)!
Knee surgery scheduled for Jan. 24...apparently I have a "plica" problem. Don't ask me what plica is , I had to look it up too!
Is it 2:45 yet????

It's About Time!

2006-01-11T15:12:00.000-05:00

I just had to quickly express my joy that LOST will be returning tonight for a TWO HOUR EPISODE!!! I know my brother is sharing in my excitement.
I am off to the doctor for the results of my MRI. Wish me luck that my knee can be fixed and I will be back running soon! God has been teaching me so much lately. More on that later! :-)

How could I forget????

2005-12-19T17:49:00.000-05:00

SOMEHOW I forgot to mention my trip to NEW YORK CITY in my last post! So of course I have to brag a little. ;-) My best bud Lauren and I went the first weekend in December and had a BLAST! We stayed at an awesome hotel right in Times Square, went to Rockefeller Plaza, the Empire State Building, Central Park, and shopped on 5th Avenue. (Well LAUREN did most of the shopping). We had a fabulous time...lots of wonderful memories. It even snowed as we were leaving on Sunday. Some not-so-wonderful memories...smells of NYC sewage at every corner, "fonky" smelling burnt pretzels, and crazy cab drivers!

Christmas Break...yippee!

2005-12-19T09:28:00.000-05:00

So it's the first official day of my Christmas break. We had Thursday and Friday off for the ice, so I got a few extra days (that will unfortunately be made up!). I'm bored already. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad for the break-I definitely need to catch up on some rest. Plus, I can't wait to spend some extra QT with the fam and God! But it's so shocking to actually slow down from my hectic life. I'm not exactly sure what to do with myself!
This weekend was lots of fun. We had a home group trivia night on Friday. I got to meet lots of new awesome people. Unfortunately, my home group was talking LOTS of smack and LOST our bet! So, sometime in the near future we will be cooking dinner for Andrew's home group rather than getting our cars washed. Oh well, it WAS fun even though we lost. On Saturday, my roomies and I had a small Christmas party that was a blast. The most fun was cooking/baking all day! I woke up in the worst mood on Saturday, after I had received some "disturbing" but not too unexpected news on Friday night. So, I'm in the kitchen mixing up some chocolate chip cookie dough from a recipe I got off of the internet. Well, let me just say for the few of you who don't know (in addition to my roommate Katie and me), self-rising and all-purpose flour are NOT the same thing!!! I used self-rising after discussing the matter with my roommate ( we both decided they were equals). It was hilarious! The cookies poofed up, ran all together, and burnt in like 2 minutes! I've never laughed so hard! My foul mood was out the door! Isn't it funny how God lets little things like that turn your whole day around?
Anyway, anyone who is reading this say a prayer for me that I will not let certain little circumstances get me down over the next few weeks. And that I will remain strong and true to my word and God's will.
Merry Christmas!

Another One Bites the Dust

2005-11-23T01:08:00.001-05:00

So my second hamster died today...well really my first, since she was the first one I got. Apparently, she had a tumor on her side, and after what happened to my other hamster about 2 months ago, I wasn't taking any chances. I took her to the vet and they euthanized her, for free since she was a classroom pet. (If you want the gory details of what happened to my last one you'll have to talk to me...way too gross to post. How can I say it nicely? I can't... she exploded over the weekend basically...sorry for those of you with weak stomachs..yuck I know. It wasn't a pretty sight) Anyway, I am really sad. I've had Cassie (short for Cassiopeia, the constellation) for 2 1/2 years...a long time in hamster years! They usually don't live more than a year and a half, 2 at most. She was a perfect classroom pet...she never bit anyone (even the most horrid students who squeezed her half to death!). I guess Cassie had a happy little hamster life...she was fed lots of good treats daily, got plenty of exercise on her wheel(even though she never really went anywhere...), got to explore the classroom in her ball...She will definitely be missed. I have to admit I cried...over a hamster. But that's ok right? I did love the little rodent. Ms. Dial's classroom definitely won't be the same...
Well I hope everyone has a happy Thanksgiving. I know mine is going to be awesome. It is my first since I was saved, so what a reason to celebrate and be thankful! My wonderful brother is cooking his first turkey, which I'm sure will be superb. By the way, did you all actually know what gibblets were in gibblet gravy? EW! Happy Turkey Day!

2005-11-15T00:48:00.000-05:00

I mean, GO PERRY! Check out his blog on 11/14...

By the way, I am a movie producer now...O.C.D. productions...oh yeah...:-)

AMEN!

2005-11-13T18:23:00.000-05:00

I am so thankful for the series "HITCH" right now. I keep feeling like i want to be one of those who yells out "AMEN!" after everything Perry says! I realize how important it is to wait for the right one to come along...the one who God truly wants you to be with. Even though it is frustrating waiting, wondering, "Will I ever find someone???". I like the way Perry put it today-God is working behind the scenes on something (someone) for us, that we may not even know about. He wants us to have an intimate relationship with Him, that will prepare us for our future relationship. I'm also reading the book Captivating right now (by John and Stasi Eldredge), which correlates so well with the series. In the chapter about Eve, it says, "The vast desire and capacity a woman has for intimate relationships tells us of God's vast desire and capacity for intimate relationships. In fact, this may be the most important thing we ever learn about Godpthat he years for relationship with us. " How could we ever have a successful dating relationship/marriage without an intimate relationship with Him? This book is awesome. For any of you girls who haven't read it, do. It says we (meaning women) are the "crown of creation". I want a man who makes me feel that way...who pursues me, respects me(and I respect him) , truly loves me as Christ does the church. I want to STOP settling for less. As Perry said, "The men need to step it up". Amen! I want a godly man who does just that! It's worth waiting for the right one.

This weekend was such an awesome experience. On Saturday, our church was involved in the Catalyst project, where we helped the community in various ways. About 20 of us went to the Calvary Home for Children. The home is such a blessing to so many children, and I felt very blessed to help out there. We painted (can't wait to see the pictures...thanks DJ!), planted flowers, cleaned, etc. I love helping others...I wish that I did it more often.

So, finally a week of Lost. Oh and what a good episode it was! Sad, but good. Can't wait till this Wednesday... :-)

Lost Without Lost

2005-10-27T01:46:00.000-04:00

This is so sad. I've never been addicted to a TV show until now. I have to say that Lost is by far the best show ever. I am so thankful to my wonderful brother Lee for introducing me to this addiction. (I do have THE BEST brother by the way:-) ) Anyway, for those of you who are Lost fans yourself know that there isn't a new episode for THREE WEEKS!!! Are they crazy!?!? I mean...Who is going to die? Where is Walt? What is going on with "the others" and that freaky teddy bear???? I have to say, my Wednesdays are ruined for the next two weeks. I am, sadly...lost without Lost...

Control Issues

2005-10-23T16:17:00.000-04:00

So I really felt like today's sermon was just what I needed to hear. It put a lot of what I've been going through lately into perspective. I guess I have control issues. Ok, I know I have control issues. I constantly have to remind myself that GOD is in control...not LIZ. For example, I've been really working at a certain situation lately until I'm blue in the face...trying to make it work out the way I want, even though it clearly isn't what HE wants. I've been praying about the situation, but not really following His will, because it wasn't working out MY way. Why do I do this when I know that God's will is what is the very best for me? I suppose that is just human nature. However, since I have put that situation in His hands, I'm feeling a lot more at peace.

Our Lord is so powerful and great. He says in Jeremiah 32:27-"I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?" It is such an awesome feeling to know that He hears our prayers no matter what, and that none of our problems are too great for him... He can handle anything we bring to him.

Speaking of prayers, THANKS to all of you who prayed for Oliver's safe return. We found him Thursday night after the Katrina benefit concert (which was awesome by the way!). Can you believe it? I think he had actually GAINED weight after being out 3 days!!!!! Well, he seems to be happy to be back home, and I am surely relieved!

Help!

2005-10-19T15:37:00.000-04:00

Okay, so this probably will seem like a silly prayer request to most of you. But for those of you who know how I feel about my cats, you will understand. I realized that my cat (of 6 wonderful years) Oliver was missing yesterday. He is an overweight housecat with virtually no survival skills needed for the outside world. I don't know how he got out or where he is. So please say a prayer that my kitty will make it home safe and sound. I believe that God puts pets on this earth to bring us happiness, and my cats definitely do! So, maybe this prayer request isn't so silly after all...
I'm off, armed with fliers...

What a Surprise!

2005-10-16T18:30:00.000-04:00

Last weekend was so much fun! My homegroupies (Lindsay, Lindsay, Elisabeth, Katie, Heather) and I went to the mountains for the weekend. We stayed in Cleveland, GA which is about 5 minutes from Helen, GA. We stayed in these awesome little cabins that Elisabeth's family ahs a time share with. Friday night was pretty entertaining. Katie wanted some "authentic mountain food that you can't get in Anderson". Well, we ended up at Ma Gooches. It was a good choice...best fried chicken I've ever had! Plus, we really liked the name of the place...
On Saturday, we got up early and went shopping around Helen. We ate at a restaurant on the river...lots of fun. We left and went back to our cabins, hoping to go on a trail ride. Unfortunately, it was too wet. So, Lindsay T, Elisabeth, and I went out on the lake in a john boat, complete with paddles and all! I was truly in awe of God's creations as we looked at the mountains-so beautiful. It was a terrific trip!

When I got to church on Sunday, I was met with quite a surprise. They showed my testimonial video. Apparently, it was a last-minute decision to show it that Sunday, which is why I was so shocked! Thanks to everyone who gave me words of encouragement after seeing the video. I even had a lot of people tell me "thank-you", and that really meant a lot. Of course the Lord gets the biggest THANK YOU of all. My life truly was saved when I asked Jesus into my heart. I am in awe everyday of what God has done for me in my life. We should boast more on the Lord everyday for the miracles He performs! It's hard to imagine the person I was before. Thankfully, that person is dead, and the person I am now in Christ is alive! It is a blessing that I got to share my story with others, and I hope it will impact lives for His kingdom.

Until next time... :-)

Feeling Lucky

2005-09-25T18:26:00.000-04:00

Wow! How awesome was Perry's sermon today?!?! It made me remember just how lucky we are that we have the gift of salvation. I am so imperfect and yet God sought me out because he wanted me in His kingdom. Sometimes I feel so unworthy as I struggle with sin , which is a lot because I AM human. I am so thankful that I have God's grace and eternal forgiveness. Thanks Perry for hitting home once again!
So I went to Asheville this weekend. My wonderful cousin Cille got married! The ceremony was perfect...the church sat on a little mountain side and the weather was perfect, and they are of course SO IN LOVE!!! Of course I cried. Why do weddings always do that to me??? I've never been to a reception as beautiful as this one. It was at the Crest Center in Asheville. The center sits atop the Blue Ridge Mountains, and we had a view of the most beautiful sunset over the mountains. We had lots of fun...good food, dancing...my brother Lee should have pics posted soon I hope.
Speaking of my brother Lee, he hosted a LOST party at his house last weekend. For those of you who don't watch the show...YOU SHOULD! Best show ever in my opinion. The party was great...he set up TV's outside which was really neat. For pics...http://www.flickr.com/photos/banana98. The season premiere was outstanding...a few questions answered, but left with even more! Can I make it until this Wednesday???? The suspense is killing me...

Back to school...and feeling frustrated!

2005-09-10T16:57:00.000-04:00

Hi all..sorry I've been so slack with my blog lately. Back to school time is always so hectic! I do have a wonderful class this year...blessed 2 years in a row! I'm loving teaching so much more this year...all because I have God in my life. What a difference that makes in EVERYTHING!
So I've been really frustrated lately. Dealing with distractions is not fun. I've had a lot going on in my life lately that has really had me worried and therefore distracted away from God. I feel like no matter how much I pray and speak to God, I'm just not hearing Him. I want to have peace and find answers, and those both seem so hard to find right now! Luckily I work with a wonderful wise lady by the name of Rhonda Arnold. (What would I do without her sometimes?!?!) She suggested that I fast, which I am. (YES I am still eating! A LOT as usual) So, I tried it for 4 days (giving up one of my distractions, and not an easy one I tell you!). It allowed me some peace and more quiet time with God, however still no clear answers, so I'm still at it till Monday. Wish me luck!
I am training for a half marathon right now so wish me luck on that too! I ran in a 10 K last weekend and came in 3rd for my division, so I was pretty pumped!
Well that's all for now..I'm about to go hang out with the cutest and sweetest guy in the entire world..my nephew Hunter :-) By the way, does anyone know how that weird comment got on my last blog and how to avoid those????

Cat Anyone?

2005-07-06T20:51:00.000-04:00

I have a pet in need of a home! It is a young black and white cat with medium length hair. It is so adorable. It has been living on the porch of my apartment since it was a kitten. I am moving in 2 weeks and he/she (not sure which) needs a home!!! I would be willing to help pay to have it spayed/neutered, and get its shots. It is really friendly to be a stray and would make a great pet for someone. If you know of anyone who would take it, PLEASE let me know.

I hope everyone had a great Fourth of July. Mine was really fun. I went to Charleston to see one of my best buds from college, Will. We went out on a boat ALL day. It was so much fun! And I am soooo burnt! I kind of forgot to reapply the sunscreen. Oops! We tied our boat up to a bunch of others near a beach. I really enjoyed it although it was kind of uncomfortable at times, since everyone was intoxicated but me ( since I no longer partake in that!) LOL. Then we went to Patriots Point and saw a great band that played beach music and I TRIED to shag. I also got to see my uncle's new sailboat (aka Yacht). It was awesome. Then I watched the most beautiful fireworks display I've ever seen off of the Yorktown. It was amazing. Lots of fun. Thanks Will for the good times! "Mid Dial" misses you already!

Off to dinner for Andrea's birthday!

Words Hurt

2005-06-29T21:00:00.000-04:00

James 3:5-6 "Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell."

Wow. Such powerful verses, and soooo true. It is amazing how hurtful words can be. I find myself remembering over and over hurtful things people have said or written to me. But it's hard to remember the nice things! I truly believe the saying "sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me" is garbage. I've been really trying lately to make sure I don't let my words (written or spoken) hurt or offend others. And then I find myself today at the library talking to a friend and later wondering if I offended them because I didn't think about what I was saying. I pray that God will work with me and help me to tame my tongue. Hurtful words last a long time...

Went to Six Flags last week...soo fun! Deja Vu is definitely the scariest ride I've ever been on! It was a great day...lots of quality time with my family. (By the way, found out quality time is my primary love language....phys. touch and affirming words a close second!) Well I'm off to work out...later!

Know When to Call it a Day

2005-06-10T11:38:00.000-04:00

I think I really overdid it yesterday. First of all, I went and helped my mom do yardwork. It was my first experience with a pushmower. I would DEFINITELY opt for a riding one. It was quite a workout! However, I had a great time. And it was good to help her out...I feel like I don't help others enough (I was feeling a bit guilty after reading "The Purpose Driven Life"!). Anyway, trying to improve in that area. :-) So, I was exhausted after all of that...mowing the lawn, trimming HUGE hedges, etc. Later on that day I went to the gym and had QUITE a workout! Ran on the treadmill, took a cross training class (by the way, not only is Renee a hardworking custodian, she's a killer instructor!!!! :-) ), and did some weights. So I was pretty pooped. I got home and it was still so pretty out that I decided to go run a few miles. Well about halfway through my run, I realized I'd probably made a mistake. I was dying! My legs felt like dead weight. Towards the end of my run...almost back to my apartment...I really did almost die. A motorcycle crashed on the road right beside me...I had to dodge debris and parts of the bike. Quite frightening..perhaps a "subtle" hint from a certain someone that I should have called it a day after the gym???? Anyway, thank goodness the driver was fine (and I did a good job of dodging)! And I can barely walk today due to my obsessive compulsive exercising yesterday! Oh well...

I'm off to ATL today-very excited! Going to visit my friend John and go to a Braves game. Should be lots of fun! By the way, if you haven't seen the movie Cinderella Man, go! It was awesome...went with Ben a few days ago. Very sad in parts though...to see the lives of people during the Great Depression. It made me realize how fortunate I am for all that God has blessed me with. Later.

A Child's View

2005-06-02T13:20:00.000-04:00

Isn't our God awesome? He has blessed me with such a sweet and intelligent nephew, Hunter. It amazes me how close Hunter is to God at such a young age. We were in the car a few days ago, and the song "Holy is the Lord" came on. Hunter went on to say how he loved the song, and I agreed with him...one of my favorites. Then he said, "Isn't it neat how the earth is filled with God's glory? Even though we can't really see him, we can see his glory everywhere.". He went on to say how we could see God's glory in the animals, trees, flowers, and even people. Wow, I was stunned to say the least! A five-year old understands what it took me about 25 years to get! I almost began to cry. To get a child's view on God's glory was amazing...so simplistic yet so true. Since our conversation, I've really started taking notice of the little things that God has created. It's amazing what you can learn from a child.

Balloons!

2005-05-30T20:26:00.000-04:00

Well, I had a balloon-filled weekend! I love Freedom Weekend Aloft. The balloons are sooo pretty. That's on my to-do list before I kick the bucket...ride in a hot air balloon. A very scary thought for someone very afraid of heights! On Friday, I went to a cookout with some Clemson friends...very fun and good food! On Saturday, I went to the Gavin deGraw concert with Lindsay O. , Lindsay T., and lots of others. It was so much fun! I was surprised-I really enjoyed Gavin. The others weren't so hot, but he was really awesome. Very talented. Sunday, church and MORE Freedom Weekend Aloft! Fun weekend!!!! Got company coming...gotta run!

Last Day!

2005-05-25T22:00:00.000-04:00

Today was the LAST day of school! Whoopeeeeee! We had fun...gave out awards, ate great food, etc. I did win the award for working out the most...lol. Well, I tied with Shelly. I was pumped! I got a $50 gift certificate to a spa, and a month free at Palmetto Fitness. Just in time for bathing suit season! Yesterday, we performed "Purple People Eater". It was great-so much fun. I was lauging at Joey, our purple people eater, so hard I could barely remember the moves/words. Good times. Looking forward to summer...
I FINALLY saw Star Wars this past Saturday. It was AWESOME! It definitely exceeded my expectations. I'm ready to go see it again already. It was so sad though...why did Anakin have to go to the dark side??? And he was so cute...until the gross part when he became Darth Vader. Oh well, GREAT movie. Go see it.
I'm loving my new book, "The Five Love Languages for Singles". It's so interesting and makes so much sense. I wonder what my love language is...haven't gotten that far yet. I'm guessing physical touch or affirmative words. Love those hugs and compliments! But I think this book will really help me to grow in my relationships in all aspects of my life.
My quiet times with God have been great lately. I feel like he's always right there beside me, listening and caring. We have such a wonderful Lord who is always there for us, when no one else is. The message at church this past Sunday was awesome. I'm guilty of trying to find my satisfaction in other aspects of my life, when I need to focus it all on God. I pray that He will continue to work with me and mold me into the person he wants me to be. I know He's got a great plan for my life!
Oooh, pizza just arrived! I'm off to eat!

Chocolate, chocolate, chocolate...

2005-05-19T17:38:00.000-04:00

Well, today was Chocolate Day at McLees third grade! We watched "chocolate" movies and ate chocolate ALL day. To most of you that probably sounds like a perfect day. But I have to say, I've had my chocolate fix to last me for a loooong time! Blagh! And imagine that much chocolate in third graders with only 3 days of school left! Need I say more?

I feel like everytime I open my Bible or a book I'm reading, the message is just meant for me. Like last night when I was reading "The Purpose Driven Life". Day 20 was on restoring broken fellowship. I feel like I've been trying to do a lot of that lately, with not much success. I've tried to practice a lot of the concepts based in the book, many of which were ideas I'd already gotten from my home-group book. I have ALWAYS HATED having conflict with others anyway. It drives me crazy! I like to resolve, or at least reconcile. And as quickly as possible! But what do you do when the other person doesn't feel the same way and isn't willing to talk to you face to face? It's very frustrating. I've been praying for God to give me peace in these situations, but it hasn't been quick to come. The question to consider at the end of Day 20 was about who you need to restore a broken relationship with. I have several that I still feel are in need of resolution. I will just keep talking to God and pray that he will either give me peace with the situation or help me resolve it. This book is WONDERFUL, but I have to admit I felt a little discouraged after reading Day 20! But, I trust God to lead me in the right direction.

I have my financial peace class tonight, which has been outstanding! Man, if you're in any kind of financial trouble, or even if you're filthy rich, this is an amazing class to take! In 3 weeks I will be a proud graduate of Financial Peace University! (I wonder if I can put that on my resume???) And, I'm even on a BUDGET! Doesn't leave me much moola for clothes, but I AM getting out of debt, slowly but surely...

Yippee!!! 3:00...Miss Dial is on her way home!

Purple People?

2005-05-18T17:18:00.000-04:00

Wow. I just finished practicing for the talent show on Tuesday. It is supposed to be for the kids, and any teachers who want to participate. Well of course we third grade teachers decided to get involved! Our team tends to be the crazy go-getters. We will be performing "Purple People Eater", and I am one of the backup singers/dancers. It's going to be hilarious and lots of fun! God has blessed me with such a wonderul team of teachers to work with. They are supportive, encouraging, and soooo much fun!We're like a family. I thank God everyday that I love my job so much!

I had home group last night...another area in which I feel graciously blessed. We signed our covenant and decided on a new curriculum to begin. We will be reading "The Five Love Languages of Singles". I'm really looking forward to it. I love the girls in my group. It's awesome to get together and have fellowship/worship with a group of girls who share the same beliefs as I do. It's exciting to know that God led us all to be in this particular group, and I can't wait to see what I learn from each of the girls. I think we're going to Greenville this weekend to see Lee McD at Carpentar's Cellar. OOOOHHHH, and Lemongrass first....ahh how I love Thai food! Man, I'm so glad I got over my nerves and went to group link. I know it's hard to believe, but I'm actually pretty shy around a big crowd of people I don't know! (Amazing for those of you who know how much I love to talk.) But God gave me the strength and I'm so thankful. The support and encouragement I've received from my home group is outstanding. I don't know what I'd do without them!

Man, I also have a SUPER family!!! (Man, I sure do say "Man" a lot...where did I get that from?) As most of you know, I'm carless right now which is NO FUN. But Lee and Jill, my brother and sister-in-law, have pretty much let me take over their truck. I'm so grateful! God blessed me with the best family in the world. They are so giving and selfless. And great Christian role models. And man, I'm loving the truck. Trucks are a great self-esteem boost for those of us who are vertically challenged. I'm beginning to feel like it's mine. I'm driving it, putting gas in it, wrecking it, paying for that....Yeah i backed into a car at church. And not just any car...a Corvette! Thankfully, God has changed me so much that I didn't even stress about it though! And I'd have had a nervous breakdown this time last year! Lee and Jill are just awesome. As much as I've put them through...they've always been there for me. I think they're finally proud of me. ;-) Check out Lee's site and you can find out about Kitty, the frog I got my nephew Hunter (who is, by the way, the love of my life! Hunter, not Kitty).

I'm reading "The Purpose Driven Life" right now. It's so great, and I've learned a lot from it already. I've been praying that God will show me my purpose for life. I feel like I'm not complete somehow, like there's more I want or need to be doing for Him. I'm just not sure what exactly. I know God will guide me in the direction I need to go. Everyday of my life is so exciting now since I've began my walk with Christ. I grow more in love with Him everyday. And I can't wait to learn more and watch what He does with my life. My life has a whole new meaning now, and I owe it all to God! Gotta run...planning period over!

Finally...happiness

2005-05-17T16:33:00.000-04:00

Hi all! I decided to try out this blog thing. Apparently it's the cool thing to do according to friends. I gave my blog the title Happy Days because that is how I finally feel! As most of you know, I've gone through quite a change in the past few months. After a few, we'll call them "mishaps", I've finally realized what I really need to be happy with my life. God. It's amazing how awesome my life has been since I started putting Him first! He's blessed life in so many ways. It's true how some people have to hit rock bottom before they see the light...worked for me! Of course I still have my ups and downs and disappointments, but that is life. They're all to make me a stronger person...the person God wants me to be. I just feel like a new person! And I am...I was baptized on Sunday. Very exciting! For some great "wet rat" pics of me go to my church's site: http://www.newspring.cc .The church, by the way, is awesome! Come visit...you're guaranteed to love it.
School's almost out. Today was the LAST day of PACT testing!!!! Such a relief. I have to say, I'm going to actually miss my class this year. However, I'm still counting down...5 days!!!!! And then, I can get a REAL TAN!