Introducing another Meadors?

Introducing another Meadors?  Why yes, we are!

Cory and I are very happy to announce that  we will have a precious baby born into our home this May. Our home will soon be filled with more love than we could imagine, which is hard to imagine.  [You will hear me refer to the baby as "cupcake" often, since I love cupcakes and I love this baby -- it seemed like the perfect nickname for me.] 

The last several months have been a new, emotional, and exciting adventure that we have been on.  I have been dying to write a blog about the weeks that have past but we wanted to wait until the perfect time before we made our Facebook and blog announcement.  So this blog will start from the beginning and catch everyone up to speed!  The day I found out I was pregnant, I was scared to death to say the least.  Scared of how Cory would react, how our families would react, and how we were going to be able to do this as newlyweds.  After the news had been broken to Cory, we knew that God had a plan for us and we were blessed to be having such a miracle.

At our first doctor's appointment at 6 weeks we go to see our little Cupcake, which at the time was a spot with a heartbeat.  I asked the doctor about being able to eat hotdogs, getting my hair done, bleaching my teach, and tanning - Cory was humiliated really proud of me at that point I think.  I was sick, very sick at the beginning and had been sick for a week or so at our first appointment.  Just so you know, when they tell you that they are going to take your blood - boyyyy do they really do it.  After I passed out and woke up with nurses all around me and a stick of stinky stuff under my nose did I realize that this tiny little baby in my belly was the real deal and reality hit at that moment - my life has completely changed.  I'm pretty sure I scared Cory half to death but we learned a valuable lesson that day, before they draw my blood I must eat.

Sickness stayed with me for many weeks.  In the morning, in the afternoon, or at night - I never knew from day to day what my stomach was going to do.  The only way I could describe how I felt was that I felt hungover.  I was kind of dizzy, headache, so hungry but if I ate something I would throw up but if I didn't eat something soon I was going to throw up.  Once the sickness faded I was hungry, really hungry.

Cupcake's heart rate has stayed strong at 152, 141, and 151.  So far the baby has showed signs of being perfectly healthy.  Several weeks ago I felt my first flutter.  It happened once while I was lying in bed watching a movie but didn't happen again for several more weeks.  Then the pressure started - it was almost like the baby was pushing all of its body weight against my stomach or bladder.  It was so strange.  The past week I have felt more movements, especially after I eat - my child is like me, enjoys the food!

We are approaching our BIG ultrasound where they will check bones, organs, development, and GENDER!  Woooo!  So excited to see if our Cupcake is a boy or a girl!


Please pray for our family as we continue down this adventure!  This is all a new experience for us.  Please pray for our health, patience, and guidance as Cory and I now make decisions for another life! [Scary, scary, scary]


First we had each other...then we had you.  Now, we have everything!

Just for you.

It is what it is.  Things will never change.  I have grown to understand that and probably will continue to do so as I get old mature.  It is unbelievably heartbreaking to believe that someone would change - for you or for themselves but then they don't.  You have hope, you try to believe in them, and all you are is let down time and time again.  Heartbreaking, to say the least.

People may wonder where the relationship has gone, they may talk about it, "Why are they so hateful?", "No respect", "Children should value their parents while they are alive."   At the end of the day - you are the one that knows what has really happened. 

I'm not alone in this.  Children, adults, families have been torn apart for years over selfish decisions made.  Often times decisions are made by parents that never truly understood how their actions have impacted the lives of their children. 

Children turn cold, unloving, distant, and angry.

Drugs, affairs, abandonment, lies.


I pray to be different.  To put my children first, my family, and My God.

Cause this Christmas I'm home

It's nothing new for me to listen to Christmas music because I love it!  I've actually been listening to it since October.  Today on my lunch break I was heading to meet Kellie for lunch and Blake Shelton is on XM58 (Currently playing country Christmas music) where he talks about rewriting Home with Michael Buble (I don't know how to make the e with the line over it).  So, as I listen I cry like a ridiculous fool - stupid hormones.  This song reminded me of Christmas's without Cory... how awful they were.  This Christmas will be our first Christmas as a family... us celebrating the holiday together along with each of our families.  It's really nice to be able to a family of just us... when I say it's nice, I mean it is really, really nice.

Here are the lyrics... try not to cry!  Or better yet, look it up on iTunes or YouTube!

Blake Shelton Feat. Michael Buble - Home

Another Christmas day will come and go away but I got so far to go but I wanna go home
I need to go home
Maybe surrounded by strangers and Christmas lights
I shouldn't feel so alone but I wanna go home
God I miss you, you know
I can close my eyes and see the angel on the tree, a blanket of snow outside and all my friends and family and though I know that you're no farther than a call away
I need to see your face, a call could never be the same
Another Christmas day will come and go away and I wont leave you alone and I wanna go home
I've got to go home
Let me go home
I'm just to far from where you are
And I wanna go home
Now the reasons I'm so far away ain't good enough
What ever they need me for I know that I need you more
So I'll do the things I got to do to get back to you
I need you to believe I'll make it back by Christmas Eve
Another Christmas day will come and go away and I wont leave you alone, No I'm gonna go home
I'm gonna be home
Though I'm surrounded by this cold December night
I feel so alone, I'm gonna go home
Babe, I miss you you know
Let me go home I've had my run baby I'm done
I'm coming back home
Let me go home
It'll all be alright
When I'm holding you tight
Cause this Christmas I'm home

Dinner for Two

Lately I have been trying to recreate some of my favorite restaurant foods at home.  Of course it is always better when you go out to eat since you don't have to grocery shop, cook, or clean up.... but sometimes dinner for two in your pjs is the perfect date night. 

Last night Cory and I recreated the wonderful, legendary Bull Dog Burger from the famous Danny's Silver Bullet.  Danny's Silver Bullet is located in Tuckerman, Arkansas - home of the Bull Dogs (I think)... Several years ago I made an appearance at Danny's too often, probably.  The food and beer is cheap and we always a good time! Danny's is known for having healthy, gourmet type of foods.  Ok, ya you are right, we are in Tuckerman here.... they are famous for their Bull Dog burger, Nasty Nachos, and Rotel Fries.  All three of those are a small piece of heaven in your mouth....and all three of those should be followed by several Tums.

Carrying on - the Bull Dog burger consists of a piece of Texas Toast, a hamburger patty, french fries, and Rotel (Velveeta cheese and Rotel).  The toast goes down first and the hamburger patty is placed on top of it - french fries cover the rest of the plate and it is all topped off with the main ingredient - Rotel!  It's one of my all time favorite foods so last night Cory and I cooked one up ourselves.  Mine wasn't near as good as Danny's but it did cover the craving for the time being.

Plus note - I added green beans to the menu.  Everyone needs some vegetables!

Tasty Tuesday to you all!!

Introducing a New Meadors!

Sorry for my lack of words lately - and the fact that I didn't finish my month of Thankfuls.  Ooops.

Carrying on - Cory sent me a picture last Thursday of three black and tan dogs with the message "I have three surprises for you."  These puppies looked to me like black and tan hound dog puppies.  [Note:  Several months ago Cory told me he wanted a black and tan coon dog, even though Cory has never been coon hunting.  I return say, I want a lot of things but another dog in the house is not one of them.]

So after I get this text message of three puppies in the back of what appears to be Cory's truck, I immediately call him.  Apparently he or a guy he works with (still not getting a clear story on that) picked these three puppies up off the side of the road on the railroad tracks.  Cory said that his friend was planning to take them to Animal Control - which he knew that would get me!  I of course say no, we will find homes for them!!  I don't want those sweet puppies taken anywhere that they could be put to sleep if they are not claimed.  I have a soft heart, I know.  My first call was to Lori Carson who I asked to help me find homes for these puppies, I was not going to be keeping one.  She of course said yes - but luckily we did not need her resources.  Two guys that works with Cory offered to take two of the puppies.  So one still needed to find a permanent home.....

This all changed Friday night when Cory came home with this long legged, black and tan, sweet and loving puppy.  The puppy didn't know what to think about Hank and Goose - he barked and guarded me as they were going to get me.  He loosened up as the night went on and after a good bath, he spent his first night in the kennel.  After a bit of crying, he went to sleep and did well throughout the night.

Saturday, as I laid in bed with the stomach virus, the new puppy and Hank snuggled up to me to give me the extra love and attention I needed.  I was hooked from that point forward.  Cory and I decided to name him Banjo... and he is now part of the family.  Sunday he spent most of his day outside pestering playing with Goose, finding dead mice, and getting into as much trouble as he possible could.  I forgot how much work a puppy is.  I was up at 11pm, 2am, and 5am with Banjo... I guess he is preparing me.  All in all, he is doing well and adjusting to our family. 

We now have a Hank, a Goose, and a Banjo.  My goodness we are redneck.

Goose meet Banjo.

Snuggled up for the day!

Hunting in the backyard with Cory and Goose

Napping in the laundry basket

Happy Monday!  It's December y'all!

My Blood is Not Red

Growing up in a small town - like Walnut Ridge, it's all you know.   Not always good, not always bad.. but I really do love the town where I was raised.  Throughout different stages of my life I loved it and hated it.... wanted to get so far away, wanted people "out of my business," or the classic "away from the drama."  So funny looking back now at wanting to get away so badly all to come back home again.  Now don't get me wrong I have lived outside of Walnut Ridge and loved every minute of it but no matter what, Walnut Ridge will always be home to me.

Friday night - Cory and I decided to have a date night.  Go eat Polar Freeze and go watch Bobcat Football.  This week was not just another week of Bobcat Football but Walnut Ridge High School was hosting the second round of state football playoffs.  Such a great honor for our town and school!  Sadly - Cory had to work late but I was able to talk my sweet brother in law into going to the game with me and eating dinner.


I was pleased to see that the town came out to support the Bobcats.  Lots of orange, even more camo coats as it was a bit chilly!  The bleachers were full {so glad the bleachers are coming along nicely.*** } along with the sidelines with fans to support the team.  As the game began, I was a bit nervous as the team did not seem to have a lot of energy.... but slowly the Bobcats proved that they were the better football team.  With some great plays, the enthusiasm continued to build.  I still can't contain myself watching football - I scream and holler just like it is my own child out on the field.  It's so funny to hear in crowd past football players talking about old games, their state playoff trips, and stories of the past.  Of course in the eyes of alumni football players, ever year past the football team was always better than the current year -- it never fails.  Funny thing is - the football players aren't the only ones that believe that, us cheerleaders think the same thing!

As I watched the Walnut Ridge Bobcat football team defeat Strong 32-16; I was so very proud to be a Bobcat.  To watch a football team advance to the 3rd round of the state playoffs which hasn't been done since the 1970's was a sight to see.  This week as the Bobcats travel to Murfeesboro for the quarter semi-finals, I hope that all past Bobcat football players and high school graduates take the time to pray for safe travels and for a successful football game.

No matter how old I get, no matter where I live - I will always be a Bobcat.  I will always "bleed orange."  My favorite team has always been the Walnut Ridge Bobcats [and whoever is playing Hoxie] Ha! :)  


Good luck to the Bobcats!





***Recent changes at the WRHS - they have switched the Home and Away sides.  It's still very strange for me but I'm slowly getting use to it.  Change is good for Walnut Ridge and I'm very proud of the progress that they have made!  A new field house and a new press box...moving on up!

I'm not giving up [Week 3]

Life is always changing - things happen unexpectedly.  We move on, grow, and continue to pray that we will do what is right.

My weekly Thankfuls...

November 10:  Thankful for Saturdays - a day for me to clean my house and nap.  The house still needs work - it isn't perfectly organized yet but we are well on our way.  On this day I'm also thankful for mouse traps.  They have attacked the house again - but this time I will not be putting out moth balls.

November 11:  Today, I am thankful for Moni's breakfast.  Getting to have breakfast with Stormy and the kids plus Renee was a perfect start of the day!!  We should do that more often.

November 12:  This Monday, I'm thankful for sick time that I receive at work.  Being under the weather and having to work is miserable.  I'm very glad that I can stay home from work and still get paid for it.

November 13:  Have you ever heard Heavenly Ham Oatmeal raisin cookies?  If not, try them and you will be thankful too!   Yummmm!

November 14:  Today I'm thankful for Cory getting tired of hunting and wanting to return home to his wife and dogs.  To top it off, he comes home with brownies, ice cream, cookies, and a balloon.  He knows the way to my heart!

November 15:  Grey's Anatomy - I'm thankful for this show.  Constant, not always great but has been a favorite since the very beginning.  I always look forward to the next episode, sometimes watching old episodes over and over again.  Since they have taken Sex and the City and Desperate Housewives out of my life - Grey's Anatomy may have to step it up a bit.  Just saying.

November 16:  On this beautiful Friday, I am thankful for Shipley's donuts.



Happy Happy Friday you Fools!

No Mushy Stuff Here [Week 2]

As I continue on my thankful posts - I have realized that half of the messages I have seen and read are all mushy crap.  I'm thankful for all my friends, my spouse, my home, etc. etc. etc.  Yes, yes, yes - I'm thankful for all of those but I'm going to be realistic!  I'm going to be thankful for something for each day that really made my day better, for which I'm thankful!  Anything that makes my day better should get a spot on the thankful list!

November 3rd: I'm thankful for all the wedding presents Cory and I received.  We have been so blessed.  Today - I moved a lot to storage, since don't have near enough room in our house at the moment.  When we move into a larger home, I will be able to display all the beautiful china, serving pieces, and many super cool appliances!

November 4th: I'm thankful for Mac makeup.  My face looks terrible - but Stormy to the rescue with her HUGE selection of Mac makeup.  The mineral powder covered all the imperfections up and made me look 18 again, well kind of.  If you ever have an event you need your makeup done by the best - Call Stormy at Fringe Salon!

November 5th:  I'm thankful for a date night.  Nothing spectacular but a trip to Sams and dinner at Red Lobster.  Cory has never been to Sams.. needless to say he was in Heaven.  He found a case of Vienna sausages and a case of MoonPies.  He didn't know such things existed.  Shopping and having dinner was just enough time for us to talk and enjoy each others company instead of us being at home cleaning or organizing.  Seems these days - I clean and organize a lot, my house is still not back to normal since Cory and Goose moved in.  Slowly, very slowly making progress.

November 6th:   Chocolate Poptarts anyone?  Yes, I'm thankful for those.  Not the most healthy breakfast but one of the best.  Heated up in the microwave and some of the chocolate just a little burnt.  It's dessert for breakfast.  Heaven.

November 7th:  I'm so very very thankful that the elections are over.  It's been hard for me to keep my mouth shut at times during the last 6 months of political mess.  At the end of the day I came to one conclusion - our educational system needs to improve.

November 8th:  Today I'm thankful for McAlisters sweet tea and nachos.  It's the most amazing sweet tea I've ever had I'm pretty sure - I don't know how they do it but they sure do it right!!  The only way to make it any better would be to serve it out of a Mason jar.  It's the perfect lunch date with the best friend!

November 9th:  Little Bit of Christmas.  That's all.



Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

For this I am Thankful [Week 1]

I have so much to be thankful for you and the month of November does really snap you back into reality, in my opinion.  This time of year brings family closer together - spending time with one another, most of the time in the presence of wonderful food.  Let's be honest - we should all thank God that we have a family to spend time with, a home to keep us warm and dry, and food to eat.

I am not near gracious enough.  I am not gracious enough for everything that is done for me or given to me.  I get to where I'm always looking for someone to thank me for what I did for them but often times, I slip and forget to thank those that are most important to me.  So, as I take a time to step back and realize what all I should be thankful for and how I should be gracious that I was able to help someone, with or without a thank you.  So I will have my weekly Thankful instead of posting each day as my Facebook status, this way I could really write something!

November 1st:  Thankful for the Lord, for which I was able to pray most of the day yesterday to keep me calm.  Often times things get us stirred up and the only way for me to really calm myself is to pray.  I hope that with His guidance I made the best decisions I could possibly make.  For that, I'm thankful for Him.

November 2nd:  Today I am thankful for my wonderful and loving Husband.  In the mornings he wakes up before most to be able to get ready, make his coffee, and take the dogs outside all before his long drive to work.  He sacrifices his sleep so that we can live in the house we live in - for now anyway.  He is as quiet as he possible can be to not wake me up so that I can sleep as long as possible.  This morning, he took out the trash without being asked or reminded - which made my entire day.  It's the little things to be so thankful for.



Be thankful for what you have; you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't have, you will never, ever have enough.
Oprah Winfrey

Wedding Madness

I don't think I could title this blog anything other than "Wedding madness!"  I know that all of you beautiful people have been waiting to hear all the mushy, lovey, wonderful details of our wedding day.... well, maybe I should just start from the beginning.


The Wednesday before the wedding I took off work at noon to head to Carlisle to get my hair did and practiced on by the wonderful Jeanette soon to be Bednar.  Anywho, things go pretty well until a hellacious thunderstorm blows up and decides to produce tornadoes around the Carlisle area.  I'm not a fan of storms but I don't lose complete composure when rain begins to fall from the sky.  Well, needless to say, on this night, I saw grown women lose it!  I have never seen anything like it in my lifetime!!!  Mass text messaging going out - giving up to minute storm information - I swear Jeanette is friends with a weather woman.  It was ridiculous.  Needless to say, we did not get blown away nor did it really storm that bad.  I consider a bad storm when we lose power, no power was lost, the hair dryer and curling iron never went off.  After returning to Lawrence County, I came to the conclusion -- check the weather before my next trip to Carlisle.  Amen.

*Just as a reminder to people who haven't been around brides or weddings lately - brides change their mind.  A lot.  And ya know what, it's totally allowed for them to do so.  So for all those people who were so confused by my mind changing a lot over those few days, I'm sorry, it happens.  Thank you for your patience.*

Thursday morning I woke up to load my car with large amount of Rubbermaid containers that had accumulated in my kitchen over the last 6 months.  It took almost an hour to load everything.  I kept thinking that all of this stuff was going to have to come back to my house after the weekend was over.  What a mess!

I had a plan -- church then reception.  My plan didn't go as smoothly as I had hoped but the church was complete by Thursday afternoon and then it was time to head to the reception building.


As I was unloading the car for the reception building a box slipped out of my front seat and I instantly knew it was going to be bad.  Really really really bad.  I heard glass shatter and then I realized how really bad it was.  My Mickey and Minnie wine glasses that my Mama Anderson bought for me when I was in the 4th grade for me to use at my wedding just shattered all over the sidewalk of Main Street Walnut Ridge.  I screamed and cussed and then went to the bathroom for a minute.  Minute was AKA as a breakdown.  I was so upset.  I had searched for those things for weeks and was so upset thinking that I wasn't going to find them...and I finally found them and they are shattered.  BREAKDOWN NUMBER 1 !!!!

The rest of the night was full of friends and family helping me set up tables, chairs, etc.  Please note - when you rent chair covers be sure they are ironed!  If that is not in your contract be prepared to take them to the laundromat to fluff them up and then steam them for hours to get out all wrinkles.  What joy! :)  We had pizza for dinner and then my night was complete with a wonderful bronze spray tan from Fringe salon.  I know it topped Stormy's night off to have to spray down her sister in law while I was wearing basically nothing.  The entire time I prayed that I wouldn't be orange and I wouldn't look like a tiger.... but I didn't, I looked like I had stepped right off of the beach.  Lindy on the other hand looked like she had fallen asleep for a few days in the sun -- nice dark, gold tan is what she was and beautiful!!

The day before the wedding was fill with mainly us running around like maniacs trying to fill spaces and get everything just perfect for the reception.  Rushed for time I quickly got ready for the rehearsal and then off to the rehearsal dinner we went.  It was beautiful and the food was wonderful.  Relaxing dinner with family and friends before the craziness started the next day.  I didn't sleep that well the night before the wedding but I've never really heard a bride say that they did. 

Wedding morning was emotional, I'd say.  It is really hard when you expect everyone that knows you and the groom to be so excited that you are getting married.  You hope for all positive energy, lots of love and encouragement and for your wedding day to be absolutely perfect and dare I say, magical.  So when it isn't that way - it's hard....and it makes people cry.  Breakdown #2.

Aunt Rosemary hosted at a bridal breakfast at my house the morning of the wedding.  The house was clean, well clean enough.  The food was wonderful and mimosas really hit the spot for everyone, I'd say.  All the bridesmaids were dressed in their monogrammed shirts and we were able to sit around and relax before the day got crazy.  If you are a bride, I really suggest you do that... it was so nice to be able to sit on the couch with your girls and enjoy the morning. 

I know that some liked to make fun of my wedding day schedule for the wedding party but I do really believe that it made the day go by smoothly - everyone was where they were supposed to be when they needed to be there.  Our phones weren't ringing off the wall wondering what time pictures started, etc.  So, another tip, make a wedding day schedule for everyone.  Include pictures, hair appointments, lunch, etc.  It really did help a lot! 

The rest of the day is basically a blur - pictures, wedding, reception.  We were completely exhausted and ready for bed by 10pm on our wedding night.  When you set your expectations so high, it's really hard to reach them - our wedding was beautiful, the ceremony was perfect and the reception was everything I wanted it to be.  I know a lot went out behind the scenes and I couldn't have accomplished any of it without a certain few ladies.... and I appreciate them so much.  So nice to have a friend, who wasn't part of the wedding party step up and help hours upon hours to make your day as perfect as possible. 

Returning from the honeymoon - I came home to a clean house!  I couldn't have been more excited!!

I'm Married Y'all!

What a year can do

One year ago today - I woke up in my house after a long night of celebrating Marti and Seth's wedding day.  I immediately wished Tiffany a Happy Birthday!  Text Erica and told her that I would not be making it to Smithville to hunt with her and Anna.  Boy, Anna sure was mad at me.  I wanted a fall day at my house.  I probably made coffee, cinnamon rolls, and enjoyed a day with the windows open.  I'm pretty sure I already had my Halloween decorations out {Note to self: get out Halloween decorations this weekend}

 I've already told you what the fall always made me think of.

So on this day - I text Cory and simply said, "I need to talk, call when you can."  He immediately replies, "Is everything ok?"  Sweet, sweet Cory was always worried about me, wanting to be sure that I was safe and ok.  I reassured him that I was just fine, that I just wanted to talk.  Him and his brother had just gotten the cabin and he was starting the adventure of the remodel.  [Lord I didn't know that I was soon to be knee deep in helping with the remodel.] 

That night Cory and I talked.  I basically said, I think we have been making a mistake... a big mistake.  We haven't been completely happy since we said goodbye.  We talked about everything, how thankful we were for our time apart and how much we have grown into adults.  We finally were able to see all of our wrong doings during our first go around.  I was able to apologize for the things I did and said during that time.  During our time apart he began to understand the value of appreciation and how important that is in a relationship.  On that day we didn't make any plans, didn't say we were going to do anything but just see.  We have spoken every single day and seen each other almost every weekend since then.

We are 18 days away from our wedding day today.  I thank God every single day that I wrote Cory on that day.  That I finally opened my eyes to what I had been missing out on.  I sure missed him and was so thankful to have him back in my life.  I can't believe so much has changed in a year.  If you would have asked me a year ago where I would be I would have told you single, living with Tiffany, and backroading every night.  I am very glad things turned out perfectly!

My "I am glad to see you, thanks for coming over, I know how much you love Fall decorations" present from Cory.  Won mine heart back immediately!

   In the very beginning....

A|W                                                                                              C|M

Aly Loves Cory 4-Eva

WPS! Howl Yes - I do it like a BIG BEAR!

I am so sick and tired of hearing all the trash talk about college football in Arkansas.  I work at ASU - they write my paycheck every other week but that doesn't give me any right to talk badly about any other university in the state - regarding sports, academics, etc.  I see it all over Facebook, I hear it daily around campus along with on the radio.  It is completely uncalled for and makes most people look ridiculous.  I worked at UCA as a student worker and don't recall any type of talk regarding ASU or U of A in the office [we did talk trash about TECH but that was totally allowed].

I have tailgated at both Razorback, Bears, Wonderboys and Red Wolf football games.  Is there a difference, yes, there was for me.  It has been many years since I was around UCA or Arkansas Tech, I know that a lot has changed since I attended my last game on either campus, so I can't elaborate on those two campuses.  The area where I tailgate in Jonesboro is more kid friendly - there are adults drinking beverages, listening to music, and having a great time but it seems much more low key.  I don't tailgate in the Pines though which is where the fraternity and sororities hang out, I'm a bit too old for that scene.  When I have tailgated at a Razorback football games, I wouldn't want any child around.  Cranked up music, baggo, lots of beer, and even more stories that should not be heard by any child.  There are a lot of drunk people, I've seen more than one sorority girl throwing up out in the open.  One too many beers, I suppose.  Both tailgating experiences have been very fun and I always look forward to going back.... I can say this, being able to drive over to a game and after it's over drive back home in 30 minutes sure is nice!

I don't know why people believe that they have to the right to talk about businesses or other people that support another university in the state of Arkansas.... along with the Red Wolves.  Does it really matter to you?  Isn't that kind of like the Chick-fil-A thing -- doesn't a business have it's own right to support whomever they want.  Geez!  If I had a business I would support and promote whomever I wanted.  FYI - I have a framed piece of paper hanging on the wall in my office that says University of Central Arkansas - am I supporting another university too?

I'm honestly embarrassed by some of the things I hear.  The representatives of ASU [students, faculty, and staff] as they speak so unkindly of other schools in the state.  How enjoyable it is to see the Hogs lose, how it could always be worse - that you could go to UCA, how ASU could beat the Hogs but the Hogs are too scared to play them [which may or may not be true], etc. etc.

That is all I'm going to say for now, I'd prefer to keep my job.  I support all universities in the state - I enjoy tailgating and watching football but I don't grip and complain about everyone all the time.  Geez people, get happy in the pants you got mad in!

Happy Friday!  Let's go Bobcats!

[Hey ASU fans, don't get pissed it's high school football!]

Did You Know?

DID YOU KNOW....?

*That I love to make list?

*Cory and I became boyfriend and girlfriend on February 1, 2002.

*My dog's name is Hank Williams - his name will not change to Meadors after marriage.

*My initials will be ARM when I get married.  It could always be worse.

*I have to pee every hour when I drink 64 ounces of water a day.

*My favorite meal would be hot dogs, cheese dip, and veggies with ranch (Ranch DIPS Packet with sour cream)

*My great-grandparents built the house that I live in.

*I didn't know my roommate when I moved to UCA my freshman year of college.

*I had two basset hounds growing up, Speedy and Lightening.

*I collected Santa Clauses as a child - at one time I had every International Santa that Dillard's had out.  Pretty fancy, I know.  I remember when they were $5.00 each.

*I sweep or mop my floor every single day.

*I have an obsession with the shower curtain being closed.

*I have way too many points on my driving record [all from speeding tickets].  I'm waiting to hear from the State - please pray that they don't take my life away suspend my license.

*When I don't know what's going on or have a plan, I get grumpy.

*I never won Miss Lawrence County.  Tragic, I know.

*I'm not scared to put soap in Jersie's mouth if he says a bad word.  [Please note, since the last soap incident we have had not one single cuss word said around his Aunt Alyson]

*Cory gave me his senior ring the night before the Walnut Ridge and Hoxie football game our senior year.  I still have it.

*I'm friends with a Lynn Squirrel.

*I use to babysit Tiffany and one time I caught a Tupperware container on fire that was left in the oven.  She will never let me live that down.

*I wish I could work at Teleflora again with the same group I started with... but make more money.

*Oh ya, I'm marrying my bestest friend in less than a month!


FREAKY FRIDAY KIDS!   Have a good one!

Bible Talk

This morning I read a few bible verses to start my day - Who doesn't think reading the bible and then praying the entire time they take a bath is the perfect start to a morning?! Pretty perfect for me!

So I thought that you wonderful peoples would love to see a few that I read this morning to BRIGHTEN your Friday!


So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

If a man has recently married, he must not be sent to war or have any other duty laid on him. For one year he is to be free to stay at home and bring happiness to the wife he has married. Deuteronomy 24:5

But at the beginning of creation God made them male and female. For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate. Mark 10:6-9

Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?
Jesus replied: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." Matthew 22:36-40

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8

Have a great weekend! Beatles in the Ridge is this weekend in Walnut Ridge, that will have to be a whole other blog in itself.



Love you, God Bless!

Well Butter My.....Bread

Sunday night I decided to try to be a real wife.  Cory was coming to town - I had worked on wedding stuff, attended a wedding shower, got my hair did -- and then it was time for dinner.

So I cooked soup, which was yummy and perfect.  Then I got the bright idea that I was going to make some bread, I had some yeast packets, how hard could it really be?  [Please note I decided upon this at 5:00pm]

So here I go, I get out my big heavy duty KitchenAid Mixer and get to work.

This is yeast with water and sugar.  The recipe said to wait until it foamed.  So I did.  Yeast really freaks me out.  Why am I wanting to eat something that foams and grows.  Plus not to mention all the other places it can grow on/in a body.  Anyway... next step.

This mixer is fancy and worked really well on mixing up my dough!

 Real southern girl kneading her bread dough... I had no idea what I was doing.  I played with it like play-dough and called it good.

 Rise baby Rise.  By this time it is 5:30pm almost.  It was supposed to rise an hour to two....until it looked like it had risen enough.  I've never made bread before, how the heck am I supposed to know?  It said to cover with plastic but Cory's Mom always covers hers with a kitchen towel, so I did both.

So - the recipe said to pinch off dough and put it in a cupcake pan.  Probably won't do that again.  The bread was ok - not the best but not terrible.  It wasn't sweet enough for me.  Cory said it tasted like pizza dough.  I guess that was a compliment.  

I had extra dough so I decided to make a loaf - I thought that it would rise right on up to the size of a regular loaf.  I thought I was making magic bread.  I wasn't.  That's a flat bread. 


Bread wasn't that hard to make but I need to rework my recipe.  I'll keep you posted.  Since I'm not really needing to be eating bread (wedding dress is a month and seven days)  it maybe after the wedding.  That's what I'm supposed to do right.  Get skinny, get married, then eat and cook all the time?  Sounds like a plan to me!




Oh the joys of being a wifey... I'm really trying hard so that I will be a good one!

Where were you?

11 years ago - I was in the 11th grade.  I heard the news that a plane had crashed in New York City.  If my memory serves me right -- I was sitting in the library doing research for Journalism.  It was Charles Davidson and I - I'm sure we were pestering Ms. Davis if at all possible.  Why would any teacher allow Charles and I out of class to run around - we were probably watching Regis and Kathy with Ms. Davis instead of doing any sort of research.  Journalism was 2nd period.  Prime time for ol' Regis!  When we heard the news we immediately went to tell Miss Moore (Lisa Moore, not Darlene).  The Journalism class gathered what news we could and walked around the school delivering typed out information to the teachers.  The teachers were oblivious to what was going on and many were in complete shock when we handed them the typed up information.  Surprisingly enough, not everyone had a cell phone then and we especially didn't have Internet on our phones.  Internet was still a "pretty big deal" during those times.  Strange how different things are in 11 years.

I can remember thinking how awesome it was that I got out of class to walk around the school.  I can also remember that day after school I was on E, so I went to Farm Service to fill my car up (it typically cost $9.00 to fill that Mazda Miata up).  The lines were so long, like I had to wait by Big Star (at the time) in line.  No way I was going anywhere else though, I had a charge card for Farm Service [Thanks Dad].  I could not understand why people were panicking about getting gas when planes crashed and knocked down a couple of towers.  I thought that people in Walnut Ridge were overreacting just as they overreacted when Terry Wood would forecast some sort of winter precipitation.  Lord knows that I did not even come close to understand what was happening.  People died.  A lot of people died.

Funny how when something happens that big, that tragic - you always remember where you were, what you were doing, and who you were with.  Even though I didn't have the slightest idea what was really happening, why people were attacking us or why they would want to crash some planes into a building in New York City - I remember.  I still can't believe that it happened, that so many people were killed.  Innocent people going to work - just another day.  I just can't imagine.

Don't forget to include families and victims of 9/11 in your prayers not only today but always.

Avoiding the Zilla

Bridezilla - everyone knows what it is and everyone has dealt with one.  I'm constantly trying to avoid that title - even though, as we get closer to the big day I feel it creeping up behind me.  Hopefully will some some help, I can avoid that awful name all together.  If not, everyone will just have to deal with it or tell Stormy to knock me out.

I'm really trying to avoid stress even though it is absolutely impossible.  I have several girlfriends that are also getting married around the same time as I am.  We have weekly text to bitch discuss what all we need to do and what all we have gotten done.  My list is still very, very long.  Funny how brides who are getting married at the same time understand but as time goes on after you are married, you somehow all the stress is forgotten.  I'm pretty nontraditional when it comes to my taste.... I'm not matchy, matchy - I don't like being in the norm - and I sure don't want anything just like someone else.  So, our wedding is going to be a little different than a traditional wedding... it's hard for people to understand but it's who we are!

Why we do, what we do....


Photographer - Felicia Hausman is amazing.  Her pictures are wonderful, she is so personable, and she sees my vision.  I'm not traditional, I don't want traditional pictures.  I will have these pictures for the rest of my life to show my children (well...) and my children's children.  I want moments captured, details of that day that some people just don't see. Some photographers are cheaper or more expensive than others... at the end of the day, you pay for what you get. 

Food - I'm not having a caterer.  It was so expensive and seemed ridiculous.  So, with the help of loving friends and family, we are doing something different... something you don't see at most weddings.  Hopefully it will turn out exactly like I have it visioned in my head - southern and fabulous.

Cake - Most wedding cakes taste terrible.  If you know me, you know I buy my cakes from one person.  All my birthday cakes and cupcakes all come from her.  It's my MJCP and it's the perfect cake with perfect icing.  Anyway, I'm not having a big fancy expensive wedding cake.  I'm having a small cake and lots of cupcakes.  Why?  Because that's what I like! :)

Flowers - I love getting flowers.  I love the way flowers add softness and romance to a room.  We are getting married at 7pm in a church that will have no lights on.  Why do I need flowers when you can't see them?  So, candles it is.

The Theme - Cory and I are pretty country.  I'm a country girl who enjoys getting dressed up and looking pretty - Cory is the exact same.  [You should see him and Tyler getting ready sometimes, it is just as bad as girls - talking about their hair, their shirts, their boots!]  So, our wedding will be a mixture of both.  Let's hope we can intertwine that!

Thanks to everyone who has put up with me over the past few months.  Your opinions, patience, and help has been very appreciated.... but now, I just need your patience and help!  Time to get stuff checked off my list and get this party started!


Bridezilla, over and out!

Happy Thursday!  Thirsty Thursday!

Emptiness

As you all know - I'm getting married.  I'm getting married pretty darn soon, actually.  So the time had to come when my precious, wonderful roommate had to move out.  We had spent the last year together and made many memories along the way.  We had a heck of a year -- we started our roomie adventures with the attitudes that  we didn't want boyfriends, never wanted to be married, and the thoughts of children grossed us out.  Ok, well number three still stands.  Look at us now - back with our high school boyfriends, enjoying life and relationships.  If you would have told me this a year ago I probably would have laughed in your face.  Tiffany and I had some pretty good times throughout the year:  watching a lot of E!, having Christmas parties, dancing in the kitchen, backroads just because it's Thursday, eating junk food just because we were on diets, and me cleaning like a maniac and Tiffany thinking I was psycho way OCD.

Anywho, the Rooms has moved out and I'm left with an empty house.  Pretty sad actually, no couch, no love seat, no kitchen table, and nothing to put in my spare bedroom.  Well, ok, I have a couch in storage (movers would be helpful), I have a table on my porch (I need someone to repair it, any ideas?), and I have a TON of wedding junk stuff to put in my spare room.  So my house isn't so empty even though I will be living alone until October 20th.  Just a little over a month of me getting to do single girl stuff.....

• Pee with the bathroom door open.  You may can get by with that during marriage, I guess I will see.
• Not brush my teeth until noon on Saturdays just because I haven't seen or talked to anyone.
• Spend a morning alone, with hardly no clothes - cleaning, sweepings, and mopping the floors.  [Boys, girls do this but it isn't at all what you imagine - we have bad hair, no make-up, bad breath, and wearing baggy t-shirts and granny panties - not lingerie like in your fantasy.]
• Having cereal for dinner.  I'm pretty sure I'm supposed to have dinner on the table.
• Sleep in the middle of the bed.  I guess I'm going to have to share the bed and my pillows.

 Anyway, even though my house is pretty bare right now, I'm getting more and more excited of it being 'Our Home.'  I am ready for Cory to be there with me everyday (even if I don't get to pee with the door open)!!

Please feel free to help me add furniture and decorations to my home. 

Empty living room
I have plenty of room to workout now, maybe I should take advantage of this.

Tiffany's bedroom with only empty boxes.

I called her last night and told her to take the key back.  What if she needs a pair of shoes!

I'm Calling the Cops!

If you are interested here are some laws and acts that protect precious, sweet animals.

Writing my note

That is not ventilated

It is against the law to leave your dog in your car!  I'm calling the cops!

Too much booty in the pants

Yesterday morning I packed to stay in Wynne last night.  Apparently I thought I was looking super thin as I was packing.  I grabbed a pair of jeans that I wore over a year ago when I was about 10 pounds lighter.  Apparently, I believed that this wedding diet was really doing the trick.

So this morning I'm getting ready in a hurry, grab these jeans and slip them on.  Well, they stopped at my knees.  OHH NO!  Did this just happen, what was I thinking??  Maybe it was the pizza I had last night for dinner.  I hop, jump and squirm around until I finally get them up and buttoned.  Wew... ok, well that doesn't look that bad besides the overhang over the side and that they look like I have been poured into them.

I walk out and ask Cory how do they look.  His reply, "I don't think they look bad at all, they make you look realllllly skinny baby."  Ya, right, he is just trained to answer me that way.  Sweet sweet man.  My t shirt must have covered up my extra large muffin top.

So today if you saw me on campus, I apologize for my extremely tight and not so professional jeans.  At least they are black, that helps a little.  Everyone else in my office loves when we can wear t shirts and jeans.  I hate it.  I don't wear jeans very often and I definitely don't have enough [that fit] to wear for 5 days.  Tomorrow I may have to say forget it and wear some with rhinestones on the butt.  Ha, now that's a lie.  I'll squeeze into another pair of skinnies if necessary.

I've got a big butt and I cannot lie.  Bootcamp on Monday, that's for sure!

Realized that I Loved You in the Fall

Fall is my favorite time of year.  The smell, the colors, and football.  Saturday morning when I woke up it was around 65 degrees outside and all I wanted was to make coffee, cook some cinnamon rolls and sit on my porch to watch the cars drive by.  That is a perfect fall morning to me.  [I had to work so I couldn't... but I will soon]  I love having my house decorated, the newest fall Wallflower plugged in, and hay bales with corn stalks in my front yard... this time of year my house really feels 'homey' and perfect!

Driving to work on Saturday I was thinking, if I wasn't back together with Cory right now -- I would be thinking about him (and missing him).  Fall was always the hardest time for me when we were broken up.  In the fall when we were together we would be back at school, running around in the country look for him places to hunt, and enjoying the weather.  We watched a lot of football together and ate even more cinnamon rolls.  Everything about fall makes me think of him.

During our few year hiatus I couldn't go to a Walnut Ridge football game without him (and Tyler) on my mind.  My goodness the hours that we spent at that football field during our years at Walnut Ridge along with every game Tyler played.  It couldn't be a cold, rainy morning without me texting him (or wanting to) telling him I how perfect the morning was... cold, rainy mornings have always been Cory's favorite.  I would always take pictures of Sunnie playing volleyball to send to Cory because I knew deep down he wished he was there watching her.  Driving around watching combines in the field and hearing my brother talk about duck season (and hunting with Cory) was like pure torture.  Oh, and the fairs - boy does Cory love funnel cake... we have experienced a fair or two back in the day.

Funny how just a time of year, a crisp in the air, and the feeling that fall brings makes you think of someone or something.  It makes me tear up a little bit, thinking about how bad I missed him during our time apart... A secret that I told no one.  I'm so very thankful that this fall, the entire fall I get to spend with Cory... well, I guess I get to spend the rest of my life with him.. So that's something to be very thankful for!   

Bring on Fall!  Football, harvest, pumpkins, and a WEDDING!

I want to eat cinnamon rolls, drink apple cider, and light a bunch of "Cinnamon Cider" candles in my house right now.....

As school begins

Last week I finally and officially completed my Masters of Science in Education in Business Technology!  Who would have thought that I finally made it?  I called Kellie (who use to have a baby in her belly) on my way home from work the day I was supposed to graduate.  She tells me "Congrats" and how happy she is for me... then says, "If you would have told me after our first semester of college that you were going to get your masters, I wouldn't have believe it."  We both laughed because we know it's true.  Boy do we have some stories from our college experience.

My first semester of my freshman year of college was pretty awful.  I moved away from everything that I ever knew.  I was an hour from Cory and living with someone that I had just met.  I slept a lot, ate even more, and rarely attended class.  By the second semester I was feeling at home in Conway.  I lived with fantastic girls in my dorm from all different backgrounds and different walks of life but somehow we always came together over some Mountain Dew and Taco Bell!  I shared 3 showers with over 20 girls, I carried everything I had in a plastic carrier, and you never saw me without flipflops on!  We would sneak Boone's Farm into the dorm and hide it behind sodas in our refrigerator.  [Such rebels]  I have no idea how I ever made it through that year without failing classes. 

Sophomore year Kellie and I lived in apartments on campus, with a chick we had never met.  Interesting to say the least.  We got a fish that year, nearly killed it but somehow Mr. Fishy survived.  Sophomore year seemed to fly by.  Kellie and I weren't in Conway most weekends... so we were only together throughout the week.  We worked out and tried to learn how to cook....Which means, we ate a lot of toast with jelly and noodles with butter and salt.  [If Kellie had a bad day right now and I made her either two of those items she would be ecstatic!]  Our roommate was rarely home, she never cleaned and never bought toiletpaper.  That's all I remember about her.

Junior and Senior year - we moved out of on campus housing.  We were 'grownups' so we thought!  I got Hank the summer before we moved into The Ridge.  We lived in a gated community -- do you know what that was like for two girls who had never even had a garage or a garage opener to have a gate opener?!!  We were in heaven!!  Kellie got Cricket before our senior year and life got loud.  Two dogs (who enjoyed barking), one small apartment -- there were plenty of messes, even more cleaning up, but we sure had a lot of fun!!!

Boy do I miss those days - Kellie and I running around on Saturday's shopping.  Eating McAlisters as often as we could afford.  Watching Greys Anatomy on Thursday nights and drinking wine from a box!  Take it all in KIDS!  College was an amazing experience and I'm so thankful that I have those four years of memories to always cherish.

Do it like a Big Bear?  I mean, Howl Yes!

Hank and Baby Cricket, he wasn't a fan of her at first!

My bestest friend (before she had a baby in her belly)

Oh girl, You got Styllleee!

In a recent lunch time discussion, between talk of diamond rings and politics - the discussion came up regarding clothing.  Let me set the scene - Panera Bread with two Moms... two young Moms.  One Mom says to the other Mom - "I was looking in my Maurices magazine earlier."  I totally cut her off at that point.... Maurices?  Maurices? [I had to even google it to see if I spelled it right because it has been so long]

So after a brief discussion with a Mom who dresses much better than I do, I decided to give some examples of GREAT clothing pieces that everyone should own, classic pieces that will never go out of style.  There is no need in being "trendy" if you are on a budget, I don't think that people should always be on the latest trend but having great pieces put together in different ways works wonderfully for most women.  This is especially true for women who are required to dress business casual. 

So here are a few pieces of clothing for work or play!

Basic v-neck t-shirt.
Target, $10.00

Buy several colors.  Finding a plain, fitted t-shirt that fits your body style and is made out of decent material is an awesome piece of clothing to have in your closet.  V-neck is great but so is crew neck, mix it up!  You can dress this up or down... dress down with khaki shorts and brown leather flip flops with a cute scarf or necklace.  Dress up with dress pants, scarf, jewelery, heels, and a fitted jacket (for winter).  PS - this is meant for shirts without collars and the two buttons.

Good pants - dress pants and jeans
Ann Taylor Loft

Ann Taylor also offers Petites which I know is very helpful for some.  Please take note on shopping for bluejeans - if you are a Mom {or a grown woman} and you are wearing the same style of bluejeans that your teenage daughter is wearing, maybe you should reevaluate the situation.  No glitter, no rhinestones, no white stitching... it's time to move on.  Do you MissMe?  NOPE!


Classic Heel.  Stay away from trendy shoes.  If you want to make a good purchase buy a nice (and maybe more expensive) heel that is comfortable and you can wear with different outfits.


Brown leather flipflop {one without sparkle and shine}
You can find these throughout the summer from all different stores.  I personally wear Rainbow Sandals and I know that they are a bit more expensive than most flip flops but I have had mine since 2009 and they are still in perfect condition.  It's the same as the heels, if you buy one good pair and cut out all the purchases, you may actually save money!

Scarves
Boy OH Boy do I love scarves. I wear them in the summer and in the winter!  They are so comfortable and can really add some color to your black and white wardrobe.  You can get scarves for various prices but if I'm going to buy a good scarf, I love to purchase one for a cause.  (Kind of like TOMs).  Serrv is a "nonprofit organization with a mission to eradicate poverty wherever it resides by providing opportunity and support of artisans and farmers worldwide."  Not only is this a great cause but that have some beautiful scarves!

Jewelry
This can make an outfit.  Find some bangles, silver and gold mix and wear those with most outfits.  A few great pair of earrings - nothing too big and dangly (avoid looking like a stripper) but mid-length that says, "Yes, I'm wearing fantastic earrings and yes, I have style and class."  Necklaces, ok, this is hard for some ladies.  No need in trying out the latest trends of color blocking and what not.  The safest and long lasting bet for necklaces would be to purchase a few long necklaces and a short one.  This will allow you to mix it up with your bangles and earrings.  Don't be afraid to mix silver and gold!  Don't forget -- Monogram jewelry, if you are from the south, this never goes out of style!!


I am no "fashionista" but I do love the feeling when someone tells me, "You look cute today!"  It is a wonderful feeling!  I know that I am not a Mom... and I can't come close to understanding how tired Mom's must be.  In my mind though, feeling fabulous and having someone tell me that I look fabulous would be the one thing that could pick me up -- and help me keep moving on (with no sleep).  Throw out those Mom jeans, put on something classically cute, and rock it!  You will hold your head a little higher, I promise! 


Thank God we're living in a country where the sky's the limit, the stores are open late and you can shop in bed thanks to television.  ~Joan Rivers

Blood Suckers

I know that I choose to live in a small town, in the middle of a rice field but MY GOODNESS the mosquitoes are out of control right now.  You can't walk outside without being swarmed and I am even super redneck classy with a box fan by my front door.  Over the last month, I have learned a few tricks.

• Buy Purge from Farm Service and when you run out, buy more!
• Spray Purge every night and pay close attention to under your bed - little suckers hide out under there.
• Get some mosquito fogger, keep by your front door and every time you go in and out, spray the suckers.  I could use a can a day.
• Don't wear shorts or open toed shoes when washing dishes, they zone in straight on your feet and ankles.  Having wet hands slapping at blood sucking insects doesn't sound like a night of fun to me.
• Classy box fan [as stated above] does kill several millions and helps keep them away from your door for when you go in and out.  Plan to buy a new fan each year, they come disgusting over the course of the summer.
• Keep the cobwebs in the corners of your house, I've recently noticed the large amount of mosquitoes stuck!  One positive thing to not having a perfectly clean house!
• In or Out.  How many times did we hear that as a kid?  No running back and forth, once they enter your house it seems as if they will never leave.
• Remove clutter -- the more stuff you have by your door the worse they will be.  Clear out the junk!!

Don't you just love killing a mosquito and blood splattering all over your hand plus whatever you hit it on.  Then you think for a second, wondering if it is your blood or someone else.  It doesn't bother me as bad at home but if I'm at Wal-Mart or something, it grosses me out to no end.  Almost makes me lose my appetite... [Note to self: I need to keep doing this, wedding in 75 days]

Even though it seems that nothing helps the mosquitoes I sure do love my house, love my front porch, and I'm very thankful for being able to enjoy outside a few months out of the year!

Zzzzzzzzzzzzz

I love Chicken Mini's

Let me start off with -- I am really not the type to get into a debate over right and wrong, what is politically correct or incorrect.

But, my goodness am I tired of hearing about Chick Fil-A.

My opinion or thoughts doesn't matter in regards to gay marriage.  At the end of our lives, we will stand upon the Gates of Heaven and will have our final judgement.  It is not my right to place judgement upon anyone for a sin. A sin, is a sin.

Chick Fil-A is standing by their morals, good for them!  If I owned a business and wanted to support various organizations with my money, I would do so.  To me, Chick Fil-A supporting an anti-gay group would be like me supporting the NRA.  It's different views of different people - but it is my money and I support who I want to support.

Let's be honest here -- August 1, 2012 Chick Fil-A Appreciation Day -- I am not going to 'support' Chick Fil-A because they have taken a stance on something and supported a group based on their morals and values.  Shouldn't we do that EVERYDAY?

Instead of going to Chick Fil-A and spending 10 dollars on August 1, 2012.... go to church, ANY CHURCH, get down on your knees and thank God for what you have.  You have ten dollars, you probably have a car that you drove there, a loving family, a job, along with many other Gifts from God.  Leave 10 dollars in the offering plate of that church.  Now that is who I want to support for morals and values.

I love chicken mini's and I love Chick Fil-A - they have amazing customer service.  I wish more fast food restaurants were that way!  I don't base where I eat, shop, etc. on what groups the particular company supports and doesn't support.  If we started digging deep into all the places that we go to daily, I'm sure we wouldn't be thrilled about where their money is going as well.

Let it go people, a dude marries a dude....We have people walking into movie theaters and going on a shooting spree.


Step back and open those baby blues!

Facebook [Part 1]

I thought that I would compile some things to go by using Facebook for some of the newcomers and not so newcomers who just simply annoy over 50% of their 'Friends.'

Back story:  I joined Facebook in 2005 - when you were required to have a valid college e-mail address.  I can remember reaching 50 friends and being beyond excited about it.  I can also remember being so mad when they started allowing high school students to join the Facebook world.  I thought that Facebook was one place where college students could be college students, not worry about high school kids telling parents what we were doing when we moved hours away.... But now, everyone [besides Cory] and anyone can have Facebook -- thank the dear lord for restrictions, blocking, and being able to customize the viewing of information.

Here are 10 of my many thoughts on Facebook users these days...

1. If you want a diary, buy one. Facebook is s social network, a place to communicate with others, not a place to tell everyone that you drank a glass of water, unloaded your dishwasher, and had your heart broken.  Try blogging, it's fun and can be much more like a diary!
2. If you are having personal or family issues, don't put it all over Facebook.  FYI -- LOTS of people talk about what they see on Facebook and most of the time it isn't nice.  Small town USA - let's try to avoid turning Facebook into Topix.
3. If you post something about a debatable topic, don't get upset when someone goes against your thoughts.  Don't put it out there if you don't want someone to say something about it.
4. If every other status you have goes from praising Jesus to talking crap about someone - you need to pray and get off Facebook.
5. Pictures are great, pictures of your kids (or dogs) are wonderful, pictures of yourself in a [dirty] mirror aren't so cute.  If you don't like viewing a particular persons pictures -- you can 'Hide Story' or 'Unsubscribe.'  I do this OFTEN.
6. If you are new to Facebook - a 'Status' is viewed by ALL of your friends unless you have chosen otherwise.  This can get you into trouble, easily..... until you figure this out.
7. 'Share' if you love Jesus, 'Like' if you hate cancer.  Come on people, Facebook was not created for the sharing and liking of pictures like these.  Of course I love Jesus and of course I hate cancer... but keep that crap off my Newsfeed. [See Rule 5]
8. When someone makes a status, it probably isn't directed to you, so you don't have to comment as if it is.
9. Stop complaining, cut the pity party wanting everyone to feel sorry for you.  Yes, we get it, your life sucks.  Moving on.
10. You kids love each other - everyone gets it.  Try this thing out, it's called TEXTING!  You don't have to cover your Facebook and your significant others Facebook with "I love you's, baby girls, sweetie pies" and whatever else people call each other.  We get it, you are happy, in love, and want the world to know but lay off  -- It's annoying.

Follow me on Twitter.

Naming a Few

I Love To.....

• Smell Pine-sol
• Eat Macaroni with butter and salt
• Write dates down on my calendar
• Mix up homemade chocolate chip cookie dough with no chocolate chips
• Watch tv all day long and never get out of bed.
• Mow my yard with my new fancy lawnmower
• Use Whiteout.
• Put creamer in my coffee
• Snack
• Make 'To Do Lists' and check things off one by one
• Take roadtrips with Cory
• Wear comfy clothes
• Post pictures on Instagram
• Shave my legs
• Squeeze Jersie until he tells me I'm squishing him
• Get my hair did
• Backroad
• Drink smoothies that I make from scratch 
• Clean my house from top to bottom.
• Listen to the sounds of the night in the country
• Dip Outback bread in chocolate sauce
• See Cory smile

Think about what you love to do and be thankful that you are able to enjoy them!!!

Happy Monday Peaches!!!

Kids say the darndest things!

Dear Parents,

You had children because you wanted a piece of each of you.  I am one half each of you; one half Mom, one half Dad.  It was your choice to have me, which I am thankful for.  It was not my choice to have you, though.  When the two of you decided that you could no longer be married, you tore apart every single bit of faith in love, relationships, and marriage that I had apart.  You may not have realized it then or even now.  It is not my fault you got a divorce, it is not my fault that you no longer loved one another, and it definitely not my fault that you two can no longer see eye to eye.  With that said, don't drag me through your problems and your hatred.  I am really sad that I no longer have one house, that I have two bedrooms now with two different closets.  I don't like leaving either one of you to go spend time with the other.  It makes me sad to think about you sitting home all alone all weekend or that you may be alone on Christmas morning.  It's heartbreaking.

You are both my parents, I love you equally, and it is not my fault that you are no longer married.  Have respect for me, my feelings, and how when you got a divorce it not only hurt you.  Your decisions that you make as parents have a lasting effect on my life.  Even though you are divorced, please be courteous that you are both my parents and I shouldn't have to pick.  Stop being selfish.


Sincerely,

Your Child who has Two Separate Christmas's 


***True story!!!!

Sufficient Grace

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9


Grace.  A term heard so often -- God's grace, giving grace, having grace, divine grace, sufficient grace.  I hear and often say, "Have Grace, be more Christlike, act with Grace"  Easier said that done.  

Sunday's church service was on Sufficient Grace and it was a wonderful sermon.  Our pastor spoke about problems, situations in our life where we often hear "God will not give you anything that you can not bear to handle."   I have always thought, in any particular situation that I can handle it (even though sometimes I think that I can't) because God wouldn't put me thru something I couldn't bear to handle myself.  This has always been difficult for me along with many other Christians, why do things happen the way they do?  When I pray and what I pray for doesn't happen, why is He doing this?

Come to find out, God will give you burdens that you cannot handle but he will step in and take care of you, handle what you can't, take up the slack for you.  I guess I have never looked at it that way.   In all reality, in particular situations, we should pray, depend on him to carry us through, support us and guide us.  Without him, we may not be able to handle the situation.  This is where prayer and Christ's Power comes in.  Even if what we pray for may not be answered how we would like it, His grace is sufficient. 


Weakness + Prayer = Sufficient Grace

Weakness + Christ's Power = Sufficient Grace



 Happy Monday, Y'all!

Just keep swimming...

One week, two near death experiences from Hank and I've decided that children are definitely not the best idea for me.   I CAN'T keep it together.  I didn't keep it together when the ants attacked Hank and he almost died and I definitely did not keep it together today...

Today started out like every other day, my alarm went off, I got up out of bed and started my bath water.  Made coffee and let Goose out.  Hank stays inside with me while I take my bath but I typically let him out when I start to dry my hair.  I let him out this morning just like always, Goose was waiting at the door for him and they both run off to take care of business.  I dry my hair and go ahead and start curling it, giving the dogs a little extra play time outside. 

I go to the door, dressed with partially curled hair, for Goose to greet me.  I yell 'Hank', shut the door, and go back to curling.  I finish my hair, go back to the door, [hello Goose], but no Hank.  A little worried so I go outside, check around the house, but still no Hank.  Panic begins, now!  I run all over my yard, looking in all the ditching surrounding my house with Goose being goofy as ever chasing me.  Like I'm playing here, GOOSE YOUR BROTHER IS MISSING!!! 

After about ten minutes of searching I go inside, grab my phone, take off my blue jeans, throw on some shorts and put on my knee boots -- and head out the door.  I'm going to search the rice fields!  {Note:  I woke Tiffany up at this point!  Called and woke Lori up, called Dad and Jeremy both to come join the search party}  I needed some help and God forbid something happened to Hank, I would need someone there to slap me when I want to drink myself into a coma for emotional support.

I'm running around behind my house searching, Tiffany stayed up by the house looking.  I'm probably 20 to 30 minutes into my search when I hear Tiffany scream, "I GOT HIM!"  I have no idea if he is dead or alive but from what I can see she is holding him.  I run up to the house [FYI Folks, it is hot at 7am, really hot!  I'm sweating and hoping that I don't have to reshower and fix my hair again.]  When I get to the porch there is Tiffy, holding Hank in a towel and he is soaked and muddy!!  She found him out in the rice field by my house -- he was buried up in the mud with his head sticking out of the water.  Thank God she found him, he would have died during the day if we wouldn't have. 

Cory and I talked the other day - It's like the awful movie Final Destination.... Hank has missed death several times but it keeps coming back!  I will now be a helicopter Mom, hovering over him at all times.  He is not going to like this....

So new rules at the Williams/Bullard household -- No dogs in rice fields, not even Goose.  No dogs around ants.  No dogs around trash -- they puke and it makes Tiffany sick.  No babies.

Amen.

Misconception #1

The first misconception of wedding planning is "It's all about you, it's your day."  Well, not really... it isn't all about you, it's all about everyone who is involved.  What they want, what they like, what they want and don't want to wear, what you should do, what is etiquette, etc.  To be honest it is much more stressful than I ever imagined.  

First stress... when you're parents are divorced it makes every aspect of planning anything much more difficult.  Lesson #1 -- DO NOT GET A DIVORCE!  It's hell on your children.  Who sits where, who walks down the aisle, who gets flowers, who gets invited to what, etc. etc. etc. 

Second stress... showers and parties.  Planning things with a large group of people is almost impossible.  I will be doing my best having me and Cory there and on time!!  Fall is crazy busy for the both of us -- so let's pray for rain on days that I need Cory in Walnut Ridge!  With that being said, I hate that people are taking time out of their schedules to do something for us -- I feel like it is almost annoying for some. 

Third stress...  Food.  Still food issues.  What to eat?  What to serve?  Full dinner?  Buffet? Just dessert?  Food is going to be one of the most expensive things that I purchase, so I just want to be sure that it is perfect. 

I think that one problem is that when you are 27 years old, you have been in a lot of weddings, helped with a lot of weddings, hosted a lot of showers.... and you kind of expect the same in the return.  Lesson #2, don't expect things from others.  You do for others because you want to not because you expect something in return.  I'm really working on that... and it's hard. 

Oh ya, wedding dress shopping... ya, there is a stress.  Stuff not fitting, too little, itchy, expensive.  Wew, that is still a decision to be made!  Lesson #3, stop eating.


Happy Tuesday, it's food day at work.  I want cheese dip all day.