Sometimes I can be a brutally honest person. Most of the time I am an open book to those that I am close to; however, I'm not close to very many people. This blog has presented a struggle for me in regards to how much to share. I don't lie or like to sugarcoat things so I just tell it like it is. On a blog I posted last week I felt like I shared way too much and some of you don't know me that well. I appreciated your sweet comments and knew that they were in the best interest of me....but that blog went in a direction that I had no intention of it going. After posting I honestly had inner turmoil....I thought I did not show my husband in the best light and I felt like it was unfair to him for me to post that blog without him being able to defend himself. I don't want to act like my marriage is peachy-keen 24/7 that's just not who I am...but I do want to share my heart completely while continuing to be respectful to my husband. More than anything I want this blog to be uplifting while still being able to share myself and my heart openly and honestly with you all!

I Just Thought I Knew What Respect Was

Last week I started a blog with the question....Sometimes don't you just want more? I never got around to posting it...but I'm here to tell you that my little void has been filled! With none other than our new Bible study on Sunday nights over the book, "Love and Respect" by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs. I feel so energized and renewed!

The whole basis of the study is based on a verse from Eph. 5:33, "Each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband." (NIV)

I have read that verse several times but didn't quite remember the part about respect. Everyone talks about love these days...hardly ever respect. I had to ask Chris what were some ways that I could show him respect...his reply was, "Maintain this messy house of ours (of course, his #1 need, desire, want), listen to him and trust his decisions (financially and other). Okay some of them I knew but it helps to actually hear the words come out of his mouth in case I forget.

A few weeks ago I brought home a marriage book, "The Five Love Languages," for Chris and I to do......and most of you know exactly how well that went over. To him I was saying, "I don't like who you are, please change, let's read this book together so you can be exactly the way I want you to be, oh and I'm perfect by the way." Well, after beginning this "Love and Respect" study I told Chris I really didn't want to make him do something he didn't want to do. He was filled with pure joy and relief. After this study last night I know that I don't need to force my husband to do a study so my needs can be met....they are going to be met through this ladies Bible study....but maybe one day we will do a study together...just for the right reasons and because BOTH of us WANT to.

I have learned that once I take that first step and respect him in return he will be loving to me. Even though it sounds so simple it isn't. It takes daily prayer and application. After a few days I'll forget and get wrapped up in my own mind. I will have to constantly remind myself to put his needs first and respect him.

This morning I wake ready to start another work week, feeling so good about my marriage, etc. Then guess what happens? If there's one thing that can make me feel like an inadequate wife it is my husband asking me if I'm going to get to something...as in cleaning, organizing or just picking up. Yesterday I did a million things between going to church, potty training Liv, getting ready for my Bible study, laundry and I began going through my office for garage sale items. Needless to say, I left the office a wreck because it's going to take me a while to go through all of my junk. Chris comes in this morning before he leaves for Dallas and asks, "So are you going to finish cleaning up this office?" WHAT? ARE YOU KIDDING ME? Tears immediately stream down my face and I become a crazy wife.....saying, "I could do a million things to make you happy but you're always going to focus on that one thing I didn't do." I was beyond hurt and shocked. We had just had this wonderful study the night before and I thought I was well on my way to "respecting" my husband. After my little meltdown I remembered one of my favorite parts of chapter 1, pg. 22 where Emerson, states that, "But Sarah (his wife) is able to see me in a more positive light because she has decided to believe that I do not purpose to be unresponsive and unloving, not in my deepest soul." Okay, so I have to begin assuming that Chris is not purposefully trying to be unloving. He means well...on some level. Right?

This morning also reminds me of another part of this study. It's in chapter 2 on pages 32-33, Emerson is talking about how men see, hear and speak in Blue and women see, hear and speak in Pink. When we talk to our spouses sometimes they don't quite "get" what we are saying. However, when we talk to our girlfriends they are totally on the same page, can relate and even have similar stories to share. So I'm going to take this little episode this morning and remind myself that even though I was hearing, "You're a horrible wife, you can't do anything right, you don't do anything that makes me happy -" maybe that's just what I was hearing but not really what Chris was saying. Understand? Yeah, it's a little confusing. If you're not reading this book I suggest ordering one....it's pretty good with a simple lesson that is somewhat easy to grasp. You just have to trust God and not your pretty little head.

Sunday Night

Our Bible study on "Love and Respect" will begin tomorrow night at my house 8 o'clock sharp!! Tomorrow night will just be a casual get together to discuss our upcoming study. This will give everyone one more week to order their books, read Chapter 1 and do the workbook questions!
I hope you all will join us tomorrow night for dessert and discussion.

WOMEN OF FAITH INFINITE GRACE CONFERENCE
DALLAS, TEXAS ~ AUGUST 22-23

What's This All About?

It’s two days, 10½ hours. It’s refreshment, reality without reproach, and relationships. So what does that mean?

Refreshment – Imagine getting together with your closest girlfriends for a weekend. Think of the laughter you’d share, the tears you’d shed, the FUN you’d have. Now multiply that by 10,000 or so. You’re starting to get the idea.

Reality without Reproach – We’re not perfect. We don’t expect you to be perfect, either. Our speakers are real women who share stories from their real lives. We’re here to encourage women, not to condemn anyone. Even those who have never set foot in a church feel comfortable at our conferences. You can check your mask at the door. You’re welcome just as you are.

Relationships – Connecting with God and with each other. At Women of Faith we believe that God loves you – no matter what your situation in life may be. We also believe that He wants a personal relationship with you. Through our conferences, more than 150,000 women have indicated decisions to start or renew that relationship. Relationships with each other are important, too. At a Women of Faith conference you’ll have the chance to connect with other women – even if you go there alone!

Over the course of the conference, you’ll have the opportunity to:

**Renew your spirit with messages of hope and humor from the Women of Faith speaker team

**Recharge your spiritual batteries with drama that tickles your funny bone and touches your heart (at the same time!)

**Rejoice with music from top Christian music artists

**Reconnect with God and each other as the WOF worship team leads an arena full of women in praise to God

**Revitalize your life with resources that will help keep the conference experience alive all year

**Relax in the comforting knowledge that God loves you – right where you are


Speakers and Special Guests

**Allison Allen**Stephen Arterburn**Patsy Clairmont**
**Louise DuArt**Natalie Grant**Nicole Johnson**
**Max Lucado**Mandisa**Marilyn Meberg**Nicole C. Mullen**
**Sandi Patty**Anita Renfroe**Jan Silvious**Luci Swindoll**
**Sheila Walsh**Ayiesha Woods**


Conference Schedule

FRIDAY
5:30**Doors Open
7:00**Infinite Grace Conference Opening
9:30**End

SATURDAY
8:00**Doors Open
9:00**Session One
10:30**Break I
11:00**Session Two
12:30**Lunch Break
1:30**Session Three
3:00**Break III
3:30**Session Four
5:00**End


"I Second that Emotion Pre-Conference"

The Pre-conference is held from 10:00 am - 3:30 pm the Friday of the Infinite Grace conference, usually in the conference arena. It’s a more intense, in-depth time of learning. Often women find it’s their favorite part of the whole weekend.
Do your feelings have you tied in knots? You’re not the only one! Join Patsy Clairmont, Anita Renfroe, and Jan Silvious for a day of laughter therapy and solid biblical teaching on understanding your emotions. Learn to enjoy your rich emotional design with perspective from God’s Word on what to do regardless of how you feel. Bring your tangled wad of emotions with the anticipation of smoothing a few out.

Hotel Reservation Information

You can call and ask for the special conference rate by calling by the reservation date and letting them know you will be an attendee of the Women of Faith Conference.

HOTEL NUMBER ROOM RATE RESERVATIONS MUST
BE MADE BY:
Marriot Suites 214-905-0050 $125 July 31st 2493 Stemmons Fwy
Dallas, TX 75207


The Indigo Hotel 877-846-3446 $104 August 18th
1933 Main Street
Dallas, TX 75201


Adolphus Hotel 214-742-8200 $125 July 31st
1321 Commerce Street
Dallas, TX 75202

Hyatt Regency 214-651-1234 $129 August 1st
300 Reunion Blvd W
Dallas, TX 75207

Three other hotels...Renaissance, Courtyard Marriot and the Fairfield Inn & Suites are already SOLD OUT!!!!!


(All information taken from http://www.womenoffaith.com/)

IT'S A BOY!!!!

LET'S GO....

http://www.americanairlinescenter.com/events-and-tickets/event_details.php?eid=652

WOMEN OF FAITH CONFERENCE, AUGUST 22-23, DALLAS, TEXAS

To tip or not to tip...

What are the new rules? Childress is not like Dallas but does that matter? People here are doing the same job, it's just that people that live here are not used to tipping. I used to wait tables so I always tip at least 20% when we eat out. Unless they are horrible and then I sweetly leave them a tip that says, "I don't think waiting tables is your cup of tea, maybe you should look into another field." Just kidding, I would never do that...but I only leave them 15%.

So what about other services....the person that cleans your house, does your yard work, does your hair, gives you a massage, delivers your mail??? I have always heard that, for example, in a salon you don't tip the owner, just the other workers.....is this true? Or am I just being a horrible tipper?

What about holidays? Do you give these people a bonus or a Christmas gift? I usually give my housekeeper a bonus and I'll take my hairdresser some fudge or some other goodie, but that's it. Am I slacking?

I don't want to be a horrible customer and them think I'm not appreciative of their services, but I also want to save as much $$ as I can.

SUPER MAKEUP SALE!!!

Nordstrom is changing the logo on their makeup, so they're selling everything that says "e.l.f." for $1! (you still have to pay shipping, but it's worth it – especially the brushes!!). Standard shipping is $6.95!

http://www.eyeslipsface.com/shop.asp

The make-up line E.L.F. ( Eyes, Lips, and Face) has been bought out by Nordstrom and will be re-packaged with the Nordstrom name on it. They are getting rid of all the make-up in ELF packaging. They are selling everything for $1. YES ONE DOLLAR. You do have to pay shipping, However, even with that charge it's cheaper than buying make-up anywhere else and it is fun to try things when you don't have to worry about the cost! They have powder, mascara, brushes, nail polish, you name it .. Just thought I'd pass along the good deal.

Sono news...


Well, our stubborn baby or shy and modest rather...had it's legs crossed throughout the entire sonogram. We go back in a week to try again. Very interesting that everyone voted BOY...we shall see.

On the home front, things are good for the most part. Last Tuesday my grandfather had a massive stroke and we took him to BSA in Amarillo. The next morning while we were visiting him I fainted and had to spend the day in the ER. No big deal, just stress and need to slow down. I feel terrible because I haven't been back to see my grandfather, but he would be the first person to tell me to take care of myself and my babies.

I'm marking things off of my to-do list and getting excited about the upcoming Bible study in June. I just know we are all going to be so blessed!

Olivia is going through a total Mommy phase...which is sweet, but boy is she getting heavy! She'll run up to me and say, "Mommy, I hold you," wanting me to pick her up! I don't want her to stay 2 forever....but I want to hold onto to these memories...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY SWEET OLIVIA

I can hardly believe that it has been 2 years. You have brought so much joy to our lives and like many other parents feel about their own children there are no words to describe the love we feel for you. I love the way you light up in the mornings and your sweet giggle, your gorgeous blue eyes and I'll admit it...your dramatic ways! You are so stubborn like both Daddy and I, you're a little bit of a perfectionist like your Daddy and sorry but that drama came from your Mama.

I hope you feel like a princess today!!!

Before you purchase those books....

We have changed the study we're going to start in June......

Charla visited with her sister-in-law Dawn over the weekend about the "Marriage on the Rock" study and decided it was more geared for couples......Dawn's group is also studying "Love and Respect" by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs and they love it....so we're going to do that one instead.

You can buy the book/workbook for $21.99 at http://www.christianbook.com/. Charla looked at amazon.com and half.com and found the christianbook website had the best price.

So....

"LOVE AND RESPECT" BY DR. EMERSON EGGERICHS

Get your books ordered and start getting excited...

"For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." Matthew 18:20 KJV

For those of you that are interested...

We will begin a summer ladies Bible study called "Marriage on the Rock" beginning June 15. It will be held at my house on Sunday nights at 8 o'clock. This study is 10 weeks long.

You can purchase books at http://www.marriagetoday.org/. The book retails for $15 and the workbook if you want it is also $15. You can find cheaper books at http://www.amazon.com/ and http://www.ebay.com/.

We're also getting a DVD to go with it and if you want to pitch in for that you can, but you're not obligated to.

I can't wait to start this!!!

Praise to the Lord!

I am finished with this semester and it feels soooo good!!! I have spent countless hours studying, stressing, praying, procrastinating....I thought May 5th would never get here, but alas, it has! I won't be able to go to summer school unless I move to Canyon (ha! yeah, right Dr. Hargrave) and taking classes this fall would be crazy because this baby will be here in October. I wasn't disappointed though; a nice break is what I need for my sanity and my physical health. I'm so excited to have these months to focus on my pregnancy, my family, my friends and my home! I didn't realize how much time I actually had until it was taken up by school. I have a big lists of things that I want to get done.

Here's a short version of my To-Do List:

Go through all of Olivia's toys/clothes
Figure out where the baby and Olivia's rooms will be
Have a garage sale
Help my mom with her garage sale
Canton - 1st weekend in June with Jenny, my soon to be sister-in-law
Go to Lubbock to help Jenny with her house hunting
Organize my pictures
Start a ladies Bible study in my home
Redo all of the files in my office at work
Vacation to South Texas to hang out with my hubby and do some antiquing
Blog more
Lots of home projects...too many to even name!
Get ready for my brother's wedding in September

What are all of your plans for this summer?

44 ODD Things about Me!

1. Do you like blue cheese? yes
2. Have you ever smoked? Ever? yes
3. Do you own a gun? nope
4. What flavor Kool Aid was your favorite? idk can't remember the flavors
5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? sometimes
6. What do you think of hot dogs? They are okay..
7. Favorite Christmas movie? How the Grinch Stole Christmas
8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Water
9. Can you do push ups? yep
10. What's your favorite piece of jewelry? My wedding ring
11. Favorite hobby? golfing
12. Do you have A.D.D.? nope
13. What's one trait you hate about yourself? my bluntness
14. Middle name? Kathryn
15. Three thoughts I am having? I need to be studying. I can't wait for these finals to be over. I want some water.
16. Name 3 drinks you regularly consume. Water, soda, water
17. Current worry. my finals tonight
18. Current hate right now? ummm idk
19. Favorite place to be? caribbean
20. How did you bring in the New Year? with my hubby who was not nearly excited about the ball drop as i was
21. Where would you like to go? Italy
22. Name four people who will complete this? ????
23. Do you own slippers? yes my mom got me some Nick & Nora bunny ones for Easter
24 What shirt are you wearing? some ugly maternity shirt....it's my least favorite but it fits..
25. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? sometimes
26. Can you whistle? not very good
27. Favorite color? green
28. Would you be a pirate? No
29. What songs do you sing in the shower? the same ones i've been singing since high school...
30. Favorite girl's name? Olivia
31. Favorite boy's name? ?? hope i get to use it soon...
32. What's in your pocket right now? lipstick
33. Last thing that made you laugh? how sad i can't remember
34. Best bed sheets as a child? Care Bears....i still have the pillowcase
35. Worst injury you've ever had? i've been very fortunate...no injuries
36. Do you love where you live? sometimes
37. How many TVs do you have in your house? 2
38. Who is your loudest friend? ???
39. How many dogs do you have? 1
40. Does someone have a crush on you? nope
41. What is your favorite book? The Notebook
42. What is your favorite candy? Reese's
43. Favorite Sports Team? Packers
44. What song do you want played at your funeral? i have a few...

On May 9th, 2006 a tornado swept through the northwest of Childress. This was the damage done to our fence and backyard...






























Last week Chris and his dad, Jerry staked out the new fence.....soon there will be posts here and then a new
fence!!! I'm sooo excited.





I never thought I would be so happy
to see a little neon orange stake!
I will never take my fence or
backyard for
granted!

Our new cheesy smile... just beautiful...uggh!!!

Our Easter Sunday






I can't believe these are the only pictures I got on Easter Sunday! We woke up to a non-working refrigerator. While I got Olivia ready for church, Chris spent most of the morning looking for coolers to put our food in. Finally, Chris comes in and tells me that he'll just meet me at church...but I look up at the clock and it's already 10:15 and I haven't even had a shower...I'll never make it I thought. So instead we called his parents to ask if we could use some of their fridge and freezer space for a few days. On the way to their house we listened to FBC on K-96 and sung a couple of hymns to Olivia which she thought was entertaining.
We made it to lunch at Thai Kitchen with my grandfather but by the time we got home Olivia was tired so we skipped the Easter Egg Hunt! So sad. Next year will be much better!
A few days, lots of take out and a new motherboard later our fridge is back in working condition!

Update on my ghostly complexion...

My sweet friend Sharon gave me some sunless tanning stuff that she used while she was pregnant! and guess what....I feel so much better!! I've only done 1 application so I know it's going to get even darker and I can't wait!

THANKS SHARON!!!!

Help!!

Okay, I have a tanning dilemma. For 3 years now I have sworn off the sun....but now I feel like I'm ready to jump back out there just with more protection this time like let's say SPF 55 : )... but what can I do in March while I'm pregnant?????

Today at lunch my husband told me that my feet are sooo white that it looks like I've got socks on...and there are dresses that I'm too embarrassed to wear because I look like a ghost.

Any suggestions??

So yesterday I'm trying to explain to my 22 month old what it means to be patient....you know - you can't have everything when you want it, you have to wait for mommy etc. and finally she looks up at me, giggles and says, "Mommy, you're soooo funny!"

Today she thinks I'm funny, in 10 years she'll think I'm sooo dumb...but maybe in 20 she'll remember all of these important "life lessons" and think I actually knew something....maybe.