Coming on the Clouds

New Blog

2010-04-14T13:06:00.001-05:00

Courtney has a new lifestyle blog over at: http://causeychitchat.blogspot.com. Go now!

An Oldie but a Goodie. Mmm Hmm.

2008-07-28T16:27:00.001-05:00

Roxy

2008-07-25T23:15:00.006-05:00

I have been wanting to write this post for a while now but I have been so bad at making the time to really put my thoughts to paper, or keypad rather. So, here we go...thoughts on a dog we call Roxy.

I work in a quaint little office building in Carrollton. It sits on pretty green grass and overlooks the sweetest pond stocked fulled of turtles, ducks and a very territorial mama and daddy swan couple. It was a huge selling point when I was considering the job believe it or not. But this story is not about my office or the pond or the water fowl that flap about.

Several months ago, a construction crew started to break ground next door. There will soon be a retirement home where once there was nothing but an old fixer upper (which my heart was sad to see it's history known no more). And about that same time she started to show up. A white and black spotted stray with dirty fur, the sweetest boxy face and a very passive demeanor. She even reminded me a little of sweet Enzo. I think she must have been being fed by the motley crew next door. But over time, we started to see her more often. And slowly a deep joy began to take place whenever I saw her sweet face. And this is what happened to us all who work at Josey Rancho.

It's funny how quickly someone can become a part of your daily life...even a stray dog. How quickly she became a part of mine. If she was going to be sticking around she needed a name. We decided on Roxy. It's an amazing thing that bestowing a name on this stray dog, who won't even come near us, can almost instantly make you feel like you know her a bit better. And so, it has made me think a lot about Him. How He knows us by name. He has our names engraved on the very palm of His hands. And I can't help but wonder if by that alone, it ushers us into a deeper intimacy with Him. If just by naming us at the beginning of time, He was able to know in even a richer way. It's a sweet thought for me.

And then there's the fear that Roxy carries around with her like her Scarlett letter. I so identify with with this. She has been ever so careful to keep her distance. To make sure that no one is allowed to sneak up on her. But, slowly, she has come to know our cars. She waits under the shade tree every morning and as soon as she sees my dusty gold car pull into my front row parking spot, she stands, skips closer and her tail begins to wag as if I am the only person she's wanted to see since night fall. She comes ever so close now and whines all the way. It's like she's just bursting at the seams and wants to finally give in and say, "I want you! I want you to pet me and love me and care for me. I want to sleep with you and play with you. I want you to know me."

But she can't bring herself to do it. So, for now we have settled for this little morning dance and I am patient still. Hopeful still. So, even when she finally retreats back to her comfort zone, I love her.

Oh, and isn't that what we do? We wait and watch with great anticipation for the Lord, our God. We want to know Him, be known by Him and fall with reckless abandon and relief into His strong arms. But I, like Roxy, retreat. Too often I retreat and I settle for less because of fear. Fear being unworthy, unlovable and unaccepted.

But I love Roxy. And in her filth and crazy behavior, I find her worthy of love. For I love her presence alone. I love the joy that she brings to me in the mornings and when I it comes quitting time. I hate knowing that she wants to be close but she can't allow herself to fall with reckless abandon into my arms or care. And so, over these last few months, the Lord has whispered something like this, "Come close, child. Stop inching your way to my throne and then retreating because you have taken too much time and are now covered with fears that are not from Me. Come, be known, daughter of Mine. I love your presence alone. And I will be here for all eternity should you chose this "morning dance". And you would still bring me joy even if that is all that I had of you. For I created you, Courtney. So, may it take root, ever so slowly and powerfully, that you never have to be like her again."

Come closer to me, Roxy. Come closer to Me, Courtney.

River Trip 2008

2008-07-23T16:39:00.007-05:00

I am a bit behind. The gang headed to the Guadalupe River on the weekend of July 11th. We had such a great time eating at the Grist Mill, floating all day, driving to San Antonio and pushing Paul around the whole River Walk in a wheelchair. He had a shell injury. Quite serious, people. I am still waiting on a few people to send me pictures...ahem, Jen and Aimee. But this will get us started...Oh, and I am aware that we are lacking pictures of the actual river. Working on it.

In attendance:
Matt Coker
Jen Long (not for long)
Crystal Delahoz
Mike Delahoz
Kelsie Fuller
Matt Shabay
Megan Barber
Mark Gregor
Aimee Gregor
Rachel Nichols
Geof Nichols
Paul Robinson
Brent Burke
JT Gale
Joanna Barber
And me!

We missed you, Paul, Brad and Larry!!

I Can Add No Words.

2008-07-22T17:19:00.001-05:00

Very Exciting Weekend

2008-07-07T10:49:00.001-05:00

I am going to have a new sister. And we love her.

Stolen from Mel

2008-07-03T14:00:00.001-05:00

Coo Coo Pants

2008-07-02T11:07:00.004-05:00

I can't even believe that I am helping this guy get recognized but I had to let you all hear his craziness!

Be sure to pause my music before listening.

June Gone Too Soon

2008-06-30T16:20:00.011-05:00

Here's a little June photojournal for you. Love you!

Makes My Heart Happy

2008-06-13T12:13:00.004-05:00

This is my favorite scene from the new Narnia movie. My heart deeply longs for my relationship with the Lord to look like this...

Erik Rudy

2008-06-11T14:23:00.004-05:00

I received news today that a friend of mine from high school passed away from Leukemia last night. He was in remission and had a full relapse. It all happened very quickly. Please read his wife's blog if you have a chance and keep them in your prayers.

http://monkeybumm.blogspot.com/

Oh, To Laugh At Oneself

2008-06-11T13:47:00.003-05:00

Thought I would share. Good stuff.

http://stuffwhitepeoplelike.com/

Africa Send-Off Party

2008-06-09T12:06:00.015-05:00

Seven of my closest guy friends (including my sweet bro) are headed to Africa on Thursday for a mission trip, where they will be working with children in need of some Jesus. We had a great send off for them all at Trawick Pavillion in Grapevine last Friday! It was such a great opportunity to call get together and allow them to thank their supporters and prayer warriors. Not to mention we all got the chance to all spend some time together...which is always fun. Hope to write more about it later because there were a lot of sweet moments!

Held Together

2008-06-03T11:18:00.001-05:00

Me, of All People...

2008-05-08T17:05:00.004-05:00

Got a longboard last weekend. Can you believe it? It's so funny to me. Larry Ray has officially moved me on over to the dark side...I mean bright side. I really do like it so much and one day I am going to go down a really big hill with all my longboarding heroes. My brother will be so proud.
And I just have to say it, to the boy's dismay, isn't so cute?
Wish me luck. I have no helmet.

I Got Three Dollars Burning in My Pocket, I Know I Know...

2008-05-05T15:51:00.012-05:00

Alright, alright. I know it's been such a long time since I have written. And even now, I write under obligation, not out of a desire to share some exciting news or brilliant thought that I hope will change your life or make you think I am really cool. But, I write nonetheless.

This past weekend was one that I will remember for a long time. I started my move to Lewisville on Friday evening. Kari and I packed our cars full of boxes and furniture and she drove south and I headed north. My new home is in the sweetest apartments and I will be living with an old roommate from a couple of years back. I know that it will be good, just different. And for those of you that know me well, know that I just don't do change well. I grieve for a few days and then I move on. It's my process.

As Kari and I loaded our last items into our cars and finished cleaning the house on good ol' Russell Avenue, we stood on the side porch not quite sure how to say goodbye to one another. I mean, we would see each other come Monday at work, but we would no longer call to check in on our way home for a McDonald's late night snack, grocery run, or hear the yell of a "goodnight" from down the hall as early as 9:00pm. Both strange and sad. We finally let a couple of tears fall and then we managed to laugh through the sting of it all.

As I got in my car, I cried some more. Good tears. Cleansing tears. The kind of tears that you should cry when you are being separated from one of the biggest blessings that has ever occurred in your life. So I cried in the silence. And then I turned on my Ipod. I deemed the song that came on quite appropriate, yet bittersweet. Matt Redman's, Blessed be Your Name. It was appropriate because I have had a love-hate relationship with this song for a while now. I am wise enough to know that you can't stand in church, belting out these lyrics, if you don't mean it. You must be willing to praise Him as He both gives and takes away.

So, my season of living with Kari has come to a close. And it has been good, so I praise Him. And I am sad that it all has to change. And I must choose to trust that the Lord's plan is still good and redemptive and best for me, even when I am so uncertain of what His plan is. And so I will praise Him still...

I left Kari with a parting CD of some of our greatest hits since living together. Here is that list:

If I Could Do It Again byCorey Smith
Way I Am by Ingrid Michaelson Girls
Desperately Wanting by Better Than Ezra
Don't Stop Believin' by Journey
Halloween by Matt Pond PA
The One Who Loves You the Most by Brett Dennen
Leave The Pieces by The Wreckers
Hey Ya! by OutKast
Heavenly Day by Patty Griffin
Divine Romance by Phil Wickham
Cosy In the Rocket by Psapp (Grey's Anatomy Soundtrack)
Kiss Me In the Dark by Randy Rogers Band
Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol
Gotta Have You by The Weepies
New Soul by Yael Naïm
How to Save a Life by The Fray
One More Goodbye by Randy Rogers Band
Cotton Eye Joe by Starsound Orchestra Dance
Goodbye by Patty Griffin

I love you, Kare Bear. Thanks for loving me for me. There is no greater gift in our friendship.

Love, Fraggle

Finally, My Search is Over

2008-03-28T14:33:00.005-05:00

For the last two years, yeah, you heard me, two years, I have been crazy curious about this singer on one of my Cd's. His name is so clearly printed on the album but he is so dang hard to find on the Internet. I would start a search and would get frustrated that his website did not instantaneously appear. So I would give up with any real time invested.

Well, I pulled out this very CD last night, The King of All of Me, as I was driving home from class. The CD itself is alright. I really only listen to number one and number four over and over and over. In typical Courtney fashion. The first song is by, you guessed it, Sam Lane and it's called All From You. It always, yes, always, speaks to me and provides truth when I need it the most. Last night I needed it. I always need it, who am I kidding. But last night especially.

I decided after my third listen through of All From You that I would search and find this mystery man, Sam Lane. I wanted to know what he looked like. I wanted to know his story. And today, after two long years, I followed his rabbit trail long enough to find him. I realize I may seem a bit like a stalker at the moment, but let's not focus on that right now people. Focus on the fact that part of my search is so that you can know him and his voice too.

Samuel Lane plays worship for Burn Church, made up of people, not a building, in St. Albans, UK. He has a myspace page for his band, Singers. He has an album called Beautiful and you can't buy it on iTunes. In fact, the sell price for it is listed in pounds. And lastly, he looks like someone I would really like. He looks a lot like this guy I know, Larry Ray. Maybe you've heard of him.

So, my work here is done. Enjoy the haunting, heart-wrenching and heart-warming sounds of my new friend, Sam Lane. And may his words usher you into the Throne Room.

And now, the search begins for Suzanne Courtney.

Blogging Blues

2008-03-25T15:34:00.004-05:00

Well, my two fans out there have pointed out how pathetic I have been at blogging this month. My apologies. Every day I think, I should blog today. And every day, I don't. I just don't have anything that exciting to say to be quite honest. How did I do this everyday in February?

I am behind on posting pictures too. I have pictures to post from New Orleans, Tahoe and Easter (I think someone took pictures at Easter?).

I have been thinking about one thing consistently this month pertaining to the ol' blogging habit. I read this at the beginning of March and well, although the guy who wrote it was being clever and witty about his own blogging endeavors, I think he may be on to something and it was quite convicting, if I must say so myself. Here it goes...

From Aaron Neiquist's blog:
There is so much to do, wrestle with, and explore. and a blog is perfect: ridiculously self-indulgent, zero accountability, and ideal for deluding myself into thinking that I’m sharing my genius thoughts with a army of interested learners.

Listening to Damien Rice, Delicate

Me and Raney Caroline

2008-03-04T16:05:00.001-06:00

I heart her...

NOLA, Here We Come

2008-02-28T11:27:00.004-06:00

My sweet friend, Taylor, is getting married this weekend to one of the most funny guys I know, Jeremy. They both grew up in New Orleans and Taylor takes a lot of pride in the city. She is all about traditions and the history of the city, so I am anxious to see how she incorporates that into her wedding. I will always thank Taylor for introducing me to the crawfish experience and King Cake. She is getting married down in the Quarter and our hotel is there as well. It should make for a wonderful mini-break. Pictures to come.

I Don't...

2008-02-27T14:37:00.005-06:00

Want to blog today. No, not for one tiny minute. I can't wait until Friday and then this dreadful blogging challenge will be over. Work is busy and we are trying to get things wrapped up so that Kari and I can head to NOLA for Taylor's wedding. Now that, I am looking forward to. Peace out.

It's a Miracle

2008-02-26T09:03:00.007-06:00

So last night, Enzo "The Escape Artist", snuck out of our backyard. I thought to myself, "here we go again". Kari had put him out there at lunch because it was such a pretty day and when I got home from the office, he was gone. I felt emotionally drained, so I did not cry (right away) and Kari and I just searched up and down the streets in our neighborhood until dark. When you have a dog that tiny, it feels like looking for a needle in a haystack.

After dark we went home and made dinner. I sat blankly in front of the TV and we left all the doors open in the hopes that Enzo would try to find his way home. Around 8pm I started getting teary and my amazing roommate attepmted to do anything to ease the pain. She ran me a bath (did I mention I had fever), made me some hot tea and got my room all ready for bed. I swear, she is such a cherished friend!

I took a long, hot bath and there I prayed and cried. As I was walking back to my bedroom I told Kari I was going to go to bed early. I put my hot tea down on my nightstand and decided to walk to the window in one last attempt to see my puppy and GUESS WHAT...at that exact moment Enzo wenting prancing by my window! I ran to the back door and Kari must have thought I was crazy. She came around the corner and we both saw Enzo just standing there. We were screaming and cheering and totally freaking Enzo out. It was so funny because the first thing that Kari said was, "he is a real dog". We were so proud of him for finding his own way home. It was such an answer to prayer. Even when my faith is so small and I doubt so much.

Once I knew Enzo was safe and sound, I felt great. I was ready to go tan and read. Funny how that works.

Best Win of the Night

2008-02-25T10:37:00.003-06:00

I watched the entire Academy Awards show last night and my most favorite winners of the night were Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova for Best Orginal Song. Yay for them! I have already blogged about this very song, Falling Slowly, here. I was so happy for them and his speech was adorable.

These Are A Few

2008-02-24T19:48:00.005-06:00

of my favorite things...

In Honor of Nathan William Herzog

2008-02-24T12:20:00.013-06:00

On Friday night we celebrated Nathan Herzog and his beautiful life that we were blessed and enriched to be able to share with him. On Tuesday, February 26th, it will be one year since he went home to be with our Lord. One year since he has been able to be face to face with our creator and crack jokes with Him.

JT was gracious enough to open up is home and let me move in half my kitchen to cook for 18 of our closest friends. Everyone brought lots of yummy food, drinks, memories, laughter and love.

I would not be Courtney if I did not share the spread, so here it goes. Jen made yummy dips for appetizers, both rich queso (sorry Callie) and a delicious pizza dip. She is quickly becoming the queen of the appetizer. We had baked veggie pasta, garlic bread and french bread with plenty of balsamic vinegar available, green beans and salad. Then for dessert, Megan out did us all with her chocloltae chip cookie bars lined with a solid chunk of chocolate in the middle. She also made cherry cheescake. The kiddos ate tons of chik-fil-a nuggets and so did my brother. We had lots of wine and beer, and Aimee brought one of my favorite wines that I rarely buy for myself, Gewurztraminer.

Since we had 18 adults and 6 kiddos we needed a big place to eat. We did not want to all be divided up. So, we made a huge picnic on the living rooms floor and listened to a CD with some of Nate's favorite songs and his pictures donned the living room walls. It all turned out pretty cool.

There will be plenty of pictures to come, so just sit back and wait patiently. I do just have to say, I have such an incredible group of friends and each person brings so much to each of our lives. I think we all became utterly aware of that last year around this time. Nate would have loved Friday. And I am pretty sure that he would have jumped in with us girls and our ridiculous attempt to take sexy pictures.

Here are some of my favorite pics of our sweet friend:

I like to keep track of who attends our infamous little dinner parties. Friday we were graced with the presence of:

Geof, Rachel, Caleb and Cora Nichols
Paul and Sydney Shabay (plus the Chris Shabay crew)
Aimee Gregor
Brent Burke
Brad Brown
Matt Coker
Jen Long
Mark Gregor
Megan Barber
Kelsie Fuller
Matt Shabay
Larry Causey
Paul Robinson
Liz Gale
JT Gale
Me
Kari Maddox
Bay Kirkham

And lastly, Nathan, we miss your face.

Busy Weekend

2008-02-24T11:59:00.002-06:00

I am behind. No one needs to point that out, alright?

To catch up, I want to share a few of my favorites vids. Enjoy!

Look What I Got

2008-02-21T14:55:00.004-06:00

So, I have to brag about my latest gift. One of my favorite people sent us a package to the office. We were a little behind in getting the mail so it was a belated Valentine's gift. Super fun. Jen is ultra creative and one of best stampers I know! Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness for two Valetine's in a row! The office just adores you for who you are and your goodies that always have a personal touch.

Expelled

2008-02-20T13:39:00.010-06:00

My friend, Matt, emailed me about this upcoming Ben Stein movie. It looks really interesting and controversial. Hopefully it rocks the boat a little. Please watch the trailer if you have time and let me know what you think. Happy Hump Day!

Go to the website below and hit the big "PLAY" button to see a preview.
http://www.expelledthemovie.com/playground.php

Also, take note of my new music playlist. The first song on the list is dedicated to someone very special, you know who you are! Enjoy some of my favorite tunes.

Late Night Thinkin'

2008-02-19T11:59:00.003-06:00

Last night, as I was laying in bed, I started thinking about how much it gets under my skin when people write things like b4, u, or idk. I don't know why it bothers me but I know it does. I hate that younger people are growing up using this more frequently than writing a full word, sentence, email, letter or paper. There is so much to be said for good writing. Good grammar. We are in such a hurry that we can't even take the time to type in the word "before" or "you". And it annoys me.

I read a book about 3 years ago called Eats, Shoots & Leaves. It talks a lot about the neglect and ignorance of the English language and the importance of punctuation. If you wish to learn more about this ridiculous rant of mine, then pick it up. It's a great read.

And now, I am finally caught up to 19 blogs. Whew.

Washing Away

2008-02-19T09:40:00.006-06:00

A couple of weekends ago, I went to the YL Capernaum Benefit Concert and one of the artists was Patrick Ryan Clark. I purchased his album on iTunes and it's awesome. Of course, I can't seem to get past the song Mercy. For those of you that know me well, know that I am the queen of the repeat button. But anyway, check out his stuff. It will be well worth it!

http://www.kingsofar.com/2006/07/10/patrick-ryan-clark/

Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life. -Red Auerbach

Enzo Is Not The Only One

2008-02-18T15:53:00.003-06:00

Enzo is a strange little pup but so is this one. This little guy looks just like Enzo and he hates to get cold back feet! I am going to see how much it cost to bring in snow to my backyard and train Enzo to do this too.

Why...

2008-02-18T13:01:00.003-06:00

Did I get us girls into this mess? The weekends are a hard time to blog for me because I have no internet at home or following me around through this crazy WiFi world. I should have thought of that before my great blogging challenge idea. And so now, with only 11 days to go as Callie pointed out, I have nothing interesting to rant or rave about at the moment.

I did manage to go to Lake Granbury this weekend and hang with my most favorite people in the world. It was relaxing and exactly what I was hoping for. We dined at this little Italian place called Pastafina on Saturday night and I enjoyed the Salmon smothered in rich Lobster Sauce and drank plenty of yummy red wine with Aimee and Brent. Other than that...nada. We watched TV, read, went to bed when we wanted and got up when we wanted. No agenda. Glorious.

We hit the Cracker Barrel on our way out of town. It's so funny how excited we all were about that meal. Rain, a cozy lakehouse, good food, millions of starbursts and friends...what more can a girl ask for? Oh, that's right, Paul getting pushed into the freezing, February lake or maybe Brent walking around in his briefs come Sunday morning. Too much I tell ya.

Behind

2008-02-16T09:22:00.003-06:00

Dang it. Who's enjoying the rain?

Just wanted to share one of my favorite songs at the moment:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NkzxwpQlXA

One Year Ago...

2008-02-14T14:02:00.007-06:00

I was anxiously awaiting my very own special date night with Nathan Herzog. He was only a friend, but one of the best. I had been through a bad break-up and Nate knew just how to light up my life, without even knowing what he was doing. He knew how to light up everyone's life. His smile alone was rapidly infectious.

I say "knew", because we lost Nate last year, only 12 days after my blessed Valentine's date with him. But more on that to come. Let's focus on our day of love, shall we?

Nate came to my tiny home on Russell, and brought a peach rose for me and my two roommates. He was always a gentleman. We jumped into his 4-runner and went heading down the tollway with no idea of where we would end up. We had no reservation so it was up to us to find somewhere worth spending the evening. We ended up at Mercy Wine Bar and they luckily had room for us. The hostess took us to the back of the small bar and sat us down in this tiny, tiny bench seat that was covered with rose petals, a miniature table, again covered in rose petals and candles and then there were sheer drapes that fell elegantly to the floor. We sat down uncomfortably and held our laughter just until the hostess was out of sight. The bench was so tiny that our legs would touch no matter how we arranged ourselves. And the romance....it was just invading this dear friendship of ours. Oh, that laugh was a sweet one.

We quickly asked the server if we could just move to a cocktail table at the bar. We could...whew. We drank lots of red wine and gobbled down perfectly seasoned calamari. We talked about so much, including where Nate was with our Lord. He expressed how much He loved Jesus and just wanted to know Him more. He talked about the struggle that comes with the discipline of being in the Word and I quickly nodded my head in agreement, amen. After Mercy, we walked the block down to Blue Mesa and enjoyed a quick Blue Margarita before calling it a night. As I closed the door after saying goodnight to my sweet friend and prepared for bed, I thanked the One who gave him to me in the first place. I was so utterly thankful to know him and be considered one of his friends.

It was a Valentine's that tops the charts for so many reasons. It was sacred, this I know. I feel blessed, incredibly incredibly blessed, to have spent Nate's last Valentine's Day with him. It is a memory that I will forever cherish. And so today, as we celebrate this Day of Amore, I recognize that Nate now spends eternity with Amore. So though there is a sting of pain and loss, I know that Nate would say that he has the better end of the deal. And in knowing that, I will celebrate tonight by loving on my friends and family. I will laugh, smile and make tender, fragile memories with these people that I cherish so dearly. That is exactly what Nathan would want for us.

And so with a heart that overflows...

I Try Really Hard, Actually

2008-02-13T17:05:00.002-06:00

I heart this movie. I heart this actress. I heart this song...still.

Last Night in Dallas

2008-02-13T08:31:00.003-06:00

Today is the last full day for the Hawkins family to live in D-town. As I type they are probably packing up mounds of boxes and getting anxious about their move to Bryan, Texas. While I am excited about the Lord's plan for them there, I am selfishly sad to know that they will be so far away.

The Hawkins' have a special, special place in my heart. The Lord used Beth to draw me close to Him. She never judged me and all of these worldly things that were going on in my life. She accepted my life "as is" and loved me wholly. She prayed for me and wrote my name down among those who needed Him in her prayer journal. And years later, she was able to mail me a few of those pages so that I could see the Lord's faithfulness in answering those prayers. She never pushed. She never acted as if I had all this work to do to be more like her, or rather Him. She just rode around with me on this old dusty bev cart, and listened to my stories of misery. And I listened to her stories of joy and life. And not only did I listen, I witnessed it. I could see that there was something different about her.

That's also where Grant comes in. Grant was her boyfriend at the time and they were one of the first Christian couples that I ever was able to spend time with. I watched them intensely and was amazed at how much they trusted each other and cared for one another. It made me long for something that looked similar. Grant is an amazing man, and now husband and father. It has been a joy to be in their home and learn from them.

And Beth, more than any person I know, tells me often to wait for someone that I can completely be myself with. Because that is the only way that marriage truly works. I can sit in their home and she can be in a sweatshirt, hair thrown up, no make-up and tell me that if she looked like that for the rest of her days, Grant would love her the same. And that is also the love of Christ.

Grant and Beth, I hope you know how much I truly love you and am forever grateful for who you have been in my life. Homes may move and change may swirl about, but this love that I have for your family will never be uprooted.

I pray that Bryan is a rich place for your family to grow. Can't wait for my first weekend visit.

Happy Birthday to my Mom

2008-02-12T12:00:00.001-06:00

That's right, Pam is 53 years old today and still looks dang good.

Here are things that I am thankful to my mom for:

-Always looking out for my best
-Constantly choosing to serve her family
-Always loving me, even when I am a jerk
-Always, always praying for me
-Being simple
-Her love of Cinnamon Rolls on the weekends
-The best "Big Breakfast" ever on Christmas mornings
-Hemming my jeans and highlighting my hair all through high school
-Passing on the Diet Coke addiction
-Her ability to state things rationally, when I ain't so rational
-Her bed full of open books - let's you know she's been seeking our God
-Her spunky red-head personality
-Her Chicken Spaghetti and Broccoli Casserole
-Taking Enzo on walks with me
-Laying in bed with me when I have a broken heart
-Being instantly happy any time that we are happy
-Being my mentor, my friend, my mom

Getting Caught Up

2008-02-12T11:37:00.001-06:00

Well, I failed miserably this weekend at the ol' blogging challenge. Too much going on and not enough internet access. Then yesterday I was at a seminar all day, so not internet again. I will try to get caught up today, so I will first steal a blog from both Christin and Jessie....

Four jobs I have had:
1) Director of Client Services at MBF
2) Member Relations Director at Hackberry Creek Country Club
3) Receptionist at Timarron, Hackberry and Okamont Country Clubs
4) Bev Cart at Hackberry Creek Country Club

Four Places I have Lived:
1) Carrollton
2) Lewisville
3) Grapevine
4) Keller

Four places I have been on vacation:
1) Colorado
2) NOLA
3) London
4) Napa

Four of my favorite foods:
1) Calamari
2) Chips and Queso from Uncle Julio's
3) Thin crust pizza
4) Pears with honey

Four places I would rather be right now:
1) Napa
2.) My bed again in last night's thunderstorm
3.) Tuscany
4.) The Hamptons

Sunrise and the Desert

2008-02-08T08:28:00.000-06:00

You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” Matthew 5:43-45

I read this this morning and I think that I have always been apt to focus on the fact that I need to love, be kind, genuine and gracious to those that are quite opposite of me. Luckily I don't have many enemies, but still the fact that this is what I am called to do sounds so challenging. I often wonder, "how can I do this in a authentic, genuine way?" Thankfully the answer rests in the last sentence of the scripture. We must focus on the Lord's mercy, His love that extends to all every new, fresh morning. It took me some time in my Christian walk to realize what a blessing each new day was. To understand the gift of a new sunrise. The gift of the seasons. The gift of the soft green grass beneath my feet.

I think on the song lyrics, "A love more faithful than the morning". The sunrise will never fail us. Never. There has never been a morning in my short life where I woke up and was able to blame the Lord for forgetting the sunrise to wake the day and His people. When you think of faithfulness in that way, and you try to grasp that His love is more faithful than even the sunrise, it leaves you thankful. Utterly thankful and small.

And He sends rain on all of those who are in need, both righteous and unrighteous. I love this scripture, "He turned the desert into pools of water and the parched ground into flowing springs". A desert is a dry place. A place to die. Slowly. I think on how I would feel in the desert seeing a pool of water after many years without. Hope. Healing. And again utterly thankful.

And may His ways make it easier for us to have mercy on others. May His faithfulness to all be the sole reason that we are able to be faithful in anything that we do. Whether that means that we are the sunrise for someone lost in the dark or the water that quenches a thirst that has been dry for much too long. And may this give our hearts great joy.

Listening to Sufjan Stevens, Amazing Grace (on repeat of course)

Capernaum YL

2008-02-07T16:13:00.000-06:00

I have been a busy bee at work today, so I am going to be lame and have you watch a video rather than read some long blog. Last week I mentioned that Larry was involved with Capernaum YL while he attended college in Dallas. I was blessed to spend last Friday with some of the kids and then on Saturday I am attending their banquet. Should be fun.

The Shack

2008-02-06T08:28:00.000-06:00

My boss at the ol' office told me about this book that she just finished for her book club, called The Shack. She told me that I would absolutely love it. It was one of those times, when you have never heard of something before, but then soon after you hear about it once you start hearing this great buzz about it all over the place. That's what happened here.

So last night I had some time to run to the bookstore and pick up this book. I did not know the author, but I asked the guy at the counter and he walked right over to it like it was second nature. He said that me and about 90 other people had been in that day to pick it up. I read roughly the first 70 pages last night and it has already made me cry once. It is such a good story and I feel like I am just waiting, not so patiently, to find out what God does to redeem this man's life. I love stories of healing, redemption and finding wholeness. Probably because I have spent so much of my adult life, no wait, whole life fighting, searching, praying and pleading for wholeness. For my real self in Christ to be revealed so that I can rest in who He made me to be. And the Lord has been sweet to give me victory in more ways than I can describe. But enough about me...

Anyway, go get this book. Or if your lucky, I will buy it for you. We can read it together and that would be fun, eh?

Today is my bro's birthday. Be sure to give him all sorts of love on the big 2-5. He deserves it. We are going to good ol' Scmitty's for dinner, a tradition for the Coker fam (and friends now), that hold many memories for us all. I was a baby in a bar, what else can I say?

Six days down, twenty-three to go.

Background Blues?

2008-02-05T17:24:00.000-06:00

If you sit at computer all day, like I do, then sometimes you just want cute wallpaper. Problem solved, here. Enjoy friends.

Once

2008-02-05T08:41:00.000-06:00

Last night I had nothing to do, which was so nice. And I have been wanting to see Once for months now, so I saw that as my opportunity and jumped on it to pick up the film for a lazy movie night.

Kari was home last night too, so we were excited about just soaking up this movie with the windows open. And then our precious DVD player decided that is could not work on the spot. Apparently it needs advancded notice or something. Ugh.

We tried to watch a little TV but Mondays are a pathetic TV night, leaving our options up to Dance War, Deal or No Deal and American Gladiator. I was actually kind of excited about the new Gladiators show because I loved it when I was a little girl. However, seeing that the Hulk is the host and the actual gladiators are fed these cheesy one-liners, I decided to turn off the television all together. Kari went to her room to read and that was that.

I have this tiny little DVD player that I keep in the guest room, so I finally chose to bust it out and watch Once just sitting on my bed. I curled up with Enzo and he slept in my lap while I enjoyed every minute of this movie and amazing soundtrack (which I purchased last week). I highly recommend this film, for what my opinion is worth. It is beautifully shot, and the characters are quirky and real.

In my favorite song from the movie, Falling Slowly, I am continually touched by the sweet words:
Take this sinking boat and point it home
We've still got time
Raise your hopeful voice
You have a choice

It continually makes me think of the scripture, Seek the LORD while he may be found; call upon him while he is near - Isaiah 55:6, when I hear this chorus. I think about how we still have the time, the choice to turn to Him and be loved by Him. And how there is no greater rising of hope within us when our boat is sinking, which it so often is, than that of Christ.

He is our home.

And the choice is ours.

La la la la la la

2008-02-04T12:16:00.000-06:00

I have been obsessed with this song from Apple's newest commercial. Last night I was with the rents and Larry Ray and was trying to demonstrate to them that this song would be capable of waking me up from even the deepest sleep in a good mood, causing me to flutter about the house applying make-up and getting dressed like a little ballerina. Just like Cinderella. Mice would come out of their holes to help me get dressed and the birds would flock to my window sill and whistle along. Luckily, my dancing convinced Larry that I needed the song. So, today I got a very special gift. Yep, I've now got some New Soul thanks to Yael Niam. Looking forward to the mornings now, at least for a day or two.

Who's up for dancing?

LYRICS: I'm a new soul I came to this strange world hoping I could learn a bit about how to give and take. But since I came herefelt the joy and the fear finding myself making every possible mistake.
la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la...
I'm a young soul in this very strange world hoping I could learn a bit about what is true and fake. But why all this hate? Try to communicate. Finding trust and love is not always easy to make.
la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la...
This is a happy end cause' you don't understand everything you have done why's everything so wrong this is a happy end come and give me your hand I'll take your far away.
[Refrain]:
I'm a new soul I came to this strange world hoping I could learn a bit about how to give and take but since I came here felt the joy and the fear finding myself making every possible mistake.
la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la... la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la....

http://www.spinner.com/2008/01/29/whats-that-song-in-the-apple-air-commercial/

For Pauly

2008-02-04T09:09:00.001-06:00

My friend, Paul, is a faithful reader of my blog which I certainly appreciate. BUT he is giving me a very hard time about already failing on my little blogging challenge. The thing of it is, that he was actually with me the night that midnight struck at the ol' Waffle House, so I consider the failure partially his fault too. Uhh, okay, maybe not. But kind of.

And another thing...he has been contemplating starting his own blog (strictly for ranting purposes, I suspect) for months now, but has not followed through. So Paul, I say you can't critique my blogging anymore until you start your own dang blog for the world to read. Deal?

I will be looking for your first blog before midnight tonight, dear Pauly. So, rant away about sports, politics and all that's wrong with the world. We can't wait to be avid readers. Give your fans what they want.

Day Two Came Too Fast

2008-02-03T11:07:00.000-06:00

Well, dang it. Last night was Matt's surpirse party for his 25th birthday and I was all excited to blog about it before midnight (so I avoided blogging during the day) but where was I at midnight? The Waffle House. I rushed home and saw that all my girls where faithful to their blogging challenge and I felt so defeated. I have already failed on day two. BUT...I will make up for it by blogging numerous times today, okay? Matt's par-tay was super fun and it was awesome to spend the night with my most favorite people. And we used streamers which is so 7th grade and awesome, thanks to Aimee, and we listened to 90's music most of the night.

Aimee, where the heck were you all night? Not in a single picture. Boo.

Happy Superbowl Day. Next year we will get Monday off for the Superbowl National Holiday, right Christin?

29 Days of Blogging

2008-02-01T08:56:00.000-06:00

Today marks the first of 29 blogs in a row for the month of February. I managed to talk two of my girlfriends from small group, Jessie and Christin Dawn (Christ-in-the-morning) and then BFF, Callie, into taking on this challenge with me. So, settle in over the next month and read all of our rants and raves. I hope that it will be well worth it for you.

I am glad it's Friday, although the week has flown by. Tonight I am going with Larry Ray to visit with some of his old friend from Young Life Capernaum in Dallas. I am grateful to be invited because I know how special these years where to him as a leader and this will be a totally new experience for me. Stories to come.

Kari, my sweet roommate, is having her wisdom teeth removed today. Poor thing. We are hoping that she can join us for Super Bowl Party on Sunday. We'll see.

Speaking of Super Bowl, there are four parties going on that night and I want to be a part of them all! My small group is hosting PJ's and Pigskins and Christin, the creative genuis, made the most adorable invitations which just makes you want to be apart of a party that much more. And I can't be there. Boo. But The Coker's, The Word's and The Ware's should all be having football fun on Sunday night and I hope to float around and say hi to all if I can. Thanks for the invites everyone.

To the girl's in my small group, I have been thinking about you all since Wednesday and how lucky I am to know each of your hearts better than before and to be apart of a group that is so real and honest. I pray that we only continue on in our pursuit to find Jesus and see Him in one another through our gifts, blessings, struggles and words. Christin, your message was amazing this week and I was so proud of how much scripture you poured out all evening long. Way to be IN THE WORD, sister. And Jennifer, we heart you so much. Especially when we picture you like this. I am so excited to find out what happens with our new extended group proposal (amazing job on this, Jessie) and the opportunity to work with middle school girls. Dance parties, crushes and ghost riding the whip here we come! I love you girls.

Favorite songs of the week: Falling Slowly by Glen Hasard, Float On by Modest Mouse and Sorry by Buckcherry (why do I feel chessy for putting that?)

Cheers!

Newest Addition

2008-01-31T12:36:00.000-06:00

Oh glorious day. I heart my newest tunes. It makes my day richer and it makes my heart slow down to enjoy each song among the midst of a busy office with phones that are constant and a pace that is so opposite of our Jesus. Praise Him for music. For it speaks to the deep places of my soul and makes me, well, me.

http://www.oncesoundtrack.com/

Thank You, Giada

2008-01-30T08:59:00.000-06:00

Well, most of you know that I am not the most talented chef out there. However, the older I get the more I think, maybe it's not because I can't cook but because I am too scared to try and fail. But not last night, friends! I made a dinner that was really yummy and I was so excited about it. For those of you out there that are hungry, this is the time to hit me up for dinner because I would make this over and over again for your empty tummy's.

I got the recipe from Giada, who is not only awesome but adorable. Here is the recipe that she currently has posted. It's really great, so if you don't want me to make it for you, then at least make it for yourself. Do you hear that, Callie? I left out the peas and then the Herbs of Provence that I used had Lavender in it and I would recommend using that.

I am sorry that I have not been blogging much lately. February is sure to be better, right? Right. Maybe I should commit to writing every day in February but I can't take on this challenge unless Christin, Jessie or Callie join me. Anyone in?

Moment of Truth

2008-01-24T11:38:00.000-06:00

So, last night was the premiere for this dumb A show, The Moment of Truth. I did manage to watch some of it and it was absolutely heartbreaking to me. My prediction is that this show will ruin relationships...quickly.

Last night, Tinker "Ty" Keck was the first guest to appear on this show and he had his beautiful wife, Catia, supporting him as he journeyed through uncomfortable questions. As the questions got more intense and more focused on his relationship with Catia, she become ever more anxious and self conscious. My heart just ached for her. One of the questions was something like, Have you ever done anything that would cause Catia not to trust you? And his answer was YES! What the HECK is she supposed to do with this? Another question was, "Do you think you have delayed having children with Catia because you are not sure she is your life partner"? Again, answer was yes.

And the real kicker, he walked away with no money at all. Just serious martial problems on the horizon.

Why is that we enjoy watching other people's train wrecks so much? Does it make us feel more normal or better than?

Weekend Review

2008-01-21T15:17:00.000-06:00

Well, this last weekend was a great one. I got to spend a lot of time with friends and I feel so lucky to have such great friends who make me laugh so hard, I have to tell them to stop.

On Friday, Callie made a wonderful dinner at her home. She is an amazing cook and often my envy creeps in because I just don't know how she does it all. She had two appetizers, shrimp lasagna, bread, salad, asparagus and a mousse desert (is that right , Cal?) and EVERYTHING was so yummy. I could have eaten the whole plate of stuffed mushrooms by myself. We drank wine and watched her fabulous Napa wedding video and got all nostalgic about that magical time spent in California for their wedding. It was super fun.

Saturday night, a few of us had plans to go to dinner in Dallas and then see the movie There Will be Blood. We planned to go to Cheesecake Factory or PF Changs but both were packed. Our night was hilarious. Everything that could go wrong went wrong, but it made us laugh and will be a memory that we won't soon forget which makes it even more special. Don't bother seeing this movie. It was terrible. I get it, it was written by some great author who shed light on some hard issues, but it was a terrible, slow, dark story with a soundtrack that sounded like nails on a chalkboard. I wish I could lie and say it was good literature and that I "got it", but I just can't do it. Oh, and did I mention we were sitting front row? That did not help...

Church was amazing this week. I was so blessed by Matt's preaching. I feel so lucky to be at a church that I love to call my home. I am excited to grow in that community of faith. I am thankful to have a pastor that is not afraid of our sin but rather encourages us to be real and take the risk to be known.

My memory scripture from Bible study this week is John 15:7-8. Quiz me if you see me.

He's Turned On Me...

2008-01-17T19:35:00.000-06:00

Guys. This is serious. I feel like I have lost my inspiration, my words. Maybe I have bad juju. You think? Really I was just dying to use the word juju today and I saw my opportunity. At any rate, I must put my foot down. I will try to dig deep and find something noteworthy.

Another week down at the ol' job. It's been a tough one but the light is at the end now. On another note, my dog has started hating me. And loving my roommate. That's just been a real treat. I have to win back his heart. I just have to.

Phil Wickham is playing a free concert on Tuesday. Who wants to join me? Pleeeease!

Okay, off to win the affections of my dear Enzzy (the strangest dog I ever did meet).

Love Like Vaseline

2007-12-28T13:39:00.001-06:00

Well, this is stolen from one of my talented clients, Sonya Judd, who was wishing us a Happy New Year, but I thought it was so poignantly put that I could not resist sharing with you all. I only wish that they were my own words. Enjoy!

May peace break into your house and may thieves come to steal your debts. May the pockets of your jeans become a magnet of $100 bills. May love stick to your face like Vaseline and may laughter assault your lips! May your clothes smell of success like smoking tires and may happiness slap you across the face and may your tears be that of joy. May the problems you had forget your home address!

The Judd Family

A. Very. Merry. Christmas.

2007-12-25T18:57:00.000-06:00

I just have not been in the blogging mood lately. Typically things happen through my day that I can't wait to blog about or when I am taking long walks or hot showers I am able to come up with these elaborate stories based of the simple moments of my life. But the last few days...nothing. And it's Christmas. I mean, I feel as if I should be able to talk about all the awesome food, the gifts and jolly-good times with friends and family but it all just seems like blah story-telling at the moment. But in fairness to my one loyal fan (you know who you are), I am committed to keeping up my blogging ritual.

Today was a very Merry Christmas for the Coker family. We all got more than we needed and Matt and I were able to surprise my mom with new pictures of her prized positions - us. They turned out really well, aside from the picture where my chest looks crumpled and well, gross for lack of a better word. Now I am forced to convince everyone that I have not been in a tanning bed since I was two years old. I do feel the need to tell my photographer about a little program called Photoshop. It might come in handy for moments like this.

We headed over to The Gale's house this afternoon to visit with them and the Herzog family. It was great seeing Peg and Gary. It is just so hard to believe that it will be a year in February since Nate has been gone. It's hard to think that this was the first year for the Herzog's to be without their son on Christmas. And what's worse, that it won't be the last. We all enjoyed each other and laughed a lot, however, I think sometimes the laughter feels more comfortable than the overwhelming sadness that lurks just beyond the surface. The kind of laughter that sounds loud and joyous but feels oh so slightly forced. I wanted to tell Peggy that I had been thinking of Nate a lot lately and that I hurt for them so much during this time but I was just afraid that my one comment might cause the floodgates to come down and ruin any chance of them having a "normal" Christmas. Yeah right, nothing about it is normal. And the fact that ours is normal just stings and causes me to carry this guilt that I know I don't have to carry. But even still, I deeply grieve their loss (and ours of course).

Granny spent yesterday evening with us and she was in rare form. I think that most of you know that she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's this year and is losing more of her memory all of the time. But as her memory flees, her joy comes out to play (Psalm 30:5). She laughs and jokes and it is beyond precious to me. She enjoyed two glasses of Merlot last night and it was just enough to get her really tickled at just about everything. She loved celebrating Christmas Eve rather than Christmas Day and she loved going home to her comfort zone at the end of the night. I soaked up her laughter and I hope that I can call on that for a long time to come when her days of laughter are also gone. She is such a strong woman who has endured so much loss in her life. I admire her strength and ability to carry on in spite of many sad circumstances along the way. She kept saying over and over last night that she never expected to get 80 years old and have such a good life. She also often talks about how she always wished to grow old with grace. I do so hope that she receives this prayer.

Being at my parent's this weekend has been hard when it comes to the TV factor. I am wanting to watch whatever is on. It does not matter what it is, The Dog Whisperer, the Presidential campaigns, even basketball. It matters not, I just want to be in front of it. Only ten more days to go. And I hope that I spend ten more days wisely, seeking God.

Enzo hates my parent's home. He escaped yesterday out the back door and I went running through our backyard barefoot and in my pajama's to try and avoid another MacArthur/Beltline incident. I think my screaming scared him enough to make him sprint to the front door in retreat. Another one of those moments that I wish I could see myself on video.

Well, that's all I got. Merry Christmas to all and to all a GOODNIGHT!

Coker Christmas

2007-12-24T13:52:00.000-06:00

On Saturday night we celebrated Christmas at my parent's home. We had 41 people crammed into our tiny house that we L-O-V-E and it was such a blessing to look around the room and see all these people that are much more than friends to us, but are rather our family. We dined on Babe's Chicken and tons of other goodies (thank you Margie!). We can't wait to do it all again next year!

2007 Headcount:
David S., Sandi, Sam, Seth, Billy, Dale, Mary, Kelsie, David C., Lucy, Kari, Bay, Andrea, Calvin, Dee-Dee, Matt C., Brent, JT, Margie, Tom, Liz, Me, Larry Ray, Larry W., Pam, Aimee, Matt S., Landry, Sam, Heath, Ashley, Kensely, Jeff, Lisa, Trevor, Taylor, Sherrie Kay, Dennis, Ruth, Chris, Jerry

The Gang's Christmas Par-tay

2007-12-24T13:39:00.000-06:00

Forgive me...I am a bit behind on blogging but last Friday we celebrated Christmas with the gang. Geof and Rachel were awesome hosts and we chowed down on Mexican fare amidst a room full of tacky Christmas sweaters. Olga and Greta made an appearance and they were just so cute.

First Time

2007-12-14T11:09:00.000-06:00

I have been anxious to get on myspace and facebook. But I have resisted thus far.

Yarn and The Weepies

2007-12-12T13:48:00.001-06:00

Ever since my recent aspiration to put away the TV from my eyes for the next 40-days, I have begun to look for new ways to preoccupy myself as I sit and listen to the same music over and over. I had this novel idea that I would take up knitting. I thought it would be a great way for me to sit with my family over the holidays and steer clear from the television. No It's a Wonderful Life or A Christmas Story for me this year.

So, I ran down to Hobby Lobby and quickly figured out that knitting is quite the past time. They have every shade of yarn imaginable and needles of all colors, weights and lengths. I did pick myself up a beginner's manual on the art of good ol' knitting and as I walked out of the store I felt proud of the lovely shade of dark teal green I selected, as well as the blue-grey needles. Wow, and just like that my knitting career was about to begin.

What I was not proud of was my knitting start. I sat patiently in my comfy leather chair and tried over and over to master the slip knot demonstrated in my trusty manual. Sometimes I did well, sometimes I missed entirely. I did manage to "cast on" (I feel so cool just saying that), and I was able to knit, well, not much of anything really. I finally got sleepy and gave up for the night. I think I need someone to help...as much as I hate to say that. Christin, is this in your realm of crafty craftiness?

It's a cold one today. Have a mentioned that I love the summers? The thunder is rumbling overhead right now and the rain falls on top of this barn that I call my office. I wish, instead, that I was in my sweatshirt and legwarmers chilling in my dimly lit house, letting The Weepies charming lyrics and unaffected music permeate my little heart. And if I know me, I would repeat the song Take it From Me over and over and over. If only the rain will press on until Saturday morning, then maybe this daydream will come true...

The Weepies – Take It From Me

Turtle Necks

2007-12-11T16:16:00.000-06:00

What a day. What a day it has been.

I dressed super warm today in my seemingly cozy, black turtle neck and black slacks thinking that when I stepped outside the cold winter air would immediately drive me back to my warm bed. But to my surprise when I opened my old screechy door it was warm and humid and well, yuck. It has left me battling the girls all day over the air conditioner settings at the office.

Part of the luxury of working for a small business is that WE control the AC. Can I get an amen? I was so hot today that I kept turning the corner outside my office to turn the air down to 71 and every time I did, well, the AC was oddly at 77. Finally, I caught on. One sneaky smirk from Holly's desk and I knew what her and Kari were up to. Oh how they complained, in between their laughter, about how they work right next to the windows and how cold it gets...blah, blah, blah. Well, you know what I say to that, "AT LEAST YOU HAVE A WINDOW!" I eventually threatened to work in my bra. And while this seems so highly unprofessional, I was seriously contemplating it. I felt all hot and bothered by the neck of my itchy sweater and I just wanted it off! Luckily Holly remembered we have a whole stash of MBF t-shirts and so, I spared the girls from having to watch me answer my client calls in my delicates.

This afternoon, oh about 10 minutes ago, I took Enzo out to his favorite spot down by the ducky pond, as my old co-worker, Kala, used to call it. And it started to downpour on the two of us. And not just a little drizzle either. We are talking about full-on Tsunami type rains...wait, we need an ocean for that. But you get the picture. We ran up the giant hill back to the office (kicking my slippery shoes off) and I could not help but giggle, out loud even. Oh, the sight of us. I suppose that my God would have giggled with me too in that moment.

Sigh...back to the rat race, people. Phones to answer, emails to deliver, nannies to place, processes to expedite and fires to extinguish. All in a days work. With no windows. But all the more, a man can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in his work. This too, I see, is from the hand of God…

Lazy Sunday

2007-12-09T14:12:00.000-06:00

I slept in until noon today. It was blissful and a rare treat. I love lazy Sundays. Lately, I have found myself just longing to be home with my family on the weekends. I head to Keller on Friday, fighting my way through traffic, and find every reason to stay late until Sunday evening. Maybe that has something to do with the fact that we have no sofa in our tiny little house at the moment...

We went to Uncle Julio's last night for dinner. Their queso seriously tops all. However, their house cabernet and Chicken Tortilla Soup left something to be desired. That's for dang sure. Now, I know it's weird...I mean, why would I order wine at a Mexican restaurant? Because that's what I wanted. But not after my first sip. Jen did not fare much better with her sangria. It was a rough night with the drink selection. But I was there with some of my closest friends and just looking around the table and seeing their faces, crazy hair, sloppy sweatshirts and quirky ears filled my heart with a gratitude that feels delicate and fragile but strong all at the same time. These are the people that love me for me. And I the same for them. It's sacred.

The highlight of the evening had to be driving home and being ushered into the lyrical world of DMX. JT sang loud and proud as Matt and Brent chimed in in the background. Let me just say, Kelsie, you should be glad that you were not there. But it did make me laugh and blush a little all at the same time.

Spent some long hours with the my sweet friend, Larry, last night and it was yet again awesome to get to learn more about this creative yet amazingly humble man. I feel very lucky and I have no other fancy adjectives to describe it. Just lucky.

I took Enzo for a run this morning, wait, afternoon. And my legs turned a fiery red from the freezing cold. Should have considered wearing pants. But there was something nice about watching my legs return to their normal fleshy color, like I had gone out and done something productive with myself.

Well, I think that's all I have for now. I will just be soaking up my parents home for the next several hours until I can return next week.

The Light at the End...

2007-12-07T15:13:00.000-06:00

I realize that I have been M.I.A. this week but things at work have been a whirlwind. I don't even have much time to blog now, but I have exciting news to share. After procrastinating for what feels like forever (really only about one week), I have purchased Sufjan Steven's, Songs for Christmas and it was worth every penny, even though I claimed to numerous friends that I would never pay $15.99 for it. Not really sure why, but it just seemed irresponsible to buy an album for $16 right around the holidays when I already have enough music to make my head spin. But it is absolutely what I need to go into the weekend, especially since I am only a fraction into my 40-days with no TV. Lord help me and my quiet home.

Like my new headline picture? Thought it might get you in the mood for some Christmas cheer. And the need for a woolly mammoth to transport Christmas gifts to and fro. Let me guess, you hadn't even thought of that? Well, you can thank Belle and Boo for her endearing artwork.

What the Walmart?

2007-11-27T16:34:00.000-06:00

Okay, seriously...I think that my dislike for Walmart grows with each passing day. I want to like it, I really do (promise) but they just make it so dang hard. Settle in for my story of the day...

So, I go to Walmart around 3pm to pick-up two prescriptions. My plan - In and out and back to work. Yeah right. I park my car and just from my car to the door was quite the adventure. First, you can't help but notice the strange man with a gray mullet walking so upright that it looks like it would be virtually impossible for him to bend at the waist. The kind of character that you feel like just may be up to no good. I know, judgemental but as he made he way through the door I wanted to remain just about 10 steps behind him for fear that he would be tossing a bomb at the nearest cash register at any moment.

And then, right as I am about to enter the store, a huge bus sat parked right in front of the door and the bus driver started to honk at me. I jump slightly and as I walked by the sliding door to his bus I looked up to see what the fuss was about. Apparently no fuss...he was just wanting to make googly eyes at me. I mean seriously, googly eyes from the bus in front of Walmart? Let's not even consider that I am donning not a spot of make-up and my hair is a frazzled mess. But whatever...don't even get me started on cat calling.

Okay, so then I make it back to the pharmacy. I give the girl behind the counter my name and date of birth. She moves so slow it looks as if someone has just sedated her with a tranquilizer gun. I can just tell, this girl loves her job. So, she tells me that there is only prescription under my name and there is nothing she can do to help me get the other one I have patiently waited for. I will need to step out of line and go to the "drop-off" counter. Oh my gosh. I had to have so much self talk to ensure that my blood pressure would not rise and cause an instant stroke.

I stepped out of line, went to the drop-off line...and readjusted my attitude. After all, it was not Les' fault that my prescription was not ready. So, I start over as kindly as I can. "I am missing one of my prescriptions, can you help with that? "Oh yeah, I remember you...we have not been able to get that one yet. Sorry." Okay, so when should I come back?" "Tomorrow." Oh dear good Lord above, just get me out of the store without trying to hunt down the man with the mullet and throw the bomb for him.

I begin to exit the store and then to top it all off, the lady in the bright red ROBE starts to mosey in front of me with seemingly nowhere to go. Just wandering in front of the exit of the store. Normal outfit and a robe. I really wanted to whisper, "ma'am, it's 3pm", but I refrained.

If only I can keep in mind that Walmart saves the average family $2500 per year.

On a side note, I have started my fast...no TV and no facebook or myspace until January 4th. Will keep you posted.

The Gang's Pre-Thanksgiving Feast

2007-11-25T10:34:00.000-06:00

On Wednesday, Kari and I hosted a non-traditional Thanksgiving celebration at our home. We felt so blessed to have 15 of our closest friends sharing time with us in such a special way. We went with an italian theme and the menu was Spinach dip (thank-you Jen Long), salad, pasta, Italian Sausage Bread and Tiramisu. Can't wait to do it all again next year. I love you guys!

Oh, and as you can probably see...we are a pretty competetive goup! And thanks Larry, for taking so many great pictures.

In attendance:
Matt Coker - aka Coke
Jen Long - aka Furlo
Brent Burke - aka George
Paul Robinson - aka Clammy
Bay Kirkham - aka A Bay Bay
Kari Maddox - aka Ka Ma
Aimee Gregor and Robbie - aka MacGregor and Rob-Be
Mark Gregor and Megan - aka Marky and Megs
Larry Causey - aka Larry Ray the II
Kelsie Fuller - aka Sister
Brad Brown - aka B-Rad
JT Gale - aka J. Tom
Me - aka Peach Cobbler

Sorely Missed:
Rachel and Geof Nichols
Paul Shabay

Deep City Lights

2007-11-17T20:09:00.000-06:00

Well, we had an awesome time at this year's Auction and Casino Night at the new Ritz Carlton in Dallas. Hopefully these pictures will convince YOU to join us next year. Come on...we can dance the night away. My plan was to put the pictures in some sort of order but it didn't happen...sorry!

Season Finale for Me

2007-11-15T15:57:00.001-06:00

That's right...the double blog. Well, tonight is the big final for Life Span and then PEACE OUT! I am so thrilled to be done with this stinkin class. I am taking winter session off for good reason. But more on that later. If any of you peeps read this before 6:30pm then throw up a prayer that the Lord will use what's in this head of mine.

Also, Auction and Casino Night at the Ritz is coming up tomorrow. Gonna be working it in a gold dress and I even have gold little toenails (soo cute!). Pictures to come! I know, I know...you want pictures now but you must learn patience. It's a virtue.

Now back to the text and my love, oops, I mean Ipod.

Last Night

2007-11-15T13:18:00.000-06:00

So, in my quiet time last night I re-read Habakkuk for the second time this week and then I started going through Mark. After I finished reading I took some time to be still and let the Lord speak over me. Sometimes, in the quiet, I get nothing. No word, no reassurance, no advice, no direction, nothing. But sometimes, I have a glimpse of something that is beautiful and beyond me and that I know is from the Lord. When it happens I am often quick to try recreate the moment and capture into words in a hope to share with others but it will quickly fade into something less meaningful or lacking the powerful breath of God.

Anyway, last night was one of those nights where I caught a glimpse. It was brief and it made me hot, flushed in the face. I will do my best to recreate the image I saw but it may lack the power that it had on my heart, though I feel that it is worth a try.

As I was reading in Mark and Habakkuk it left me pondering about repentance, true life- changing repentance. About how this is a WORK of GOD, not me. He changes hearts. It's nothing that I can ever do on my own. And I thought about humility. It was then, that as I laid on the floor in my tiny bedroom thinking about humility that I was suddenly taken to this place where I pictured myself in the position of Mary Magdalene who should have be stoned for her adultery. Although in this vision, my sins were my own, not Mary's, and they were many. Certainly worthy of death.

My face was wet with hot tears, sweat crested along the top of my forehead and the mixture of the tears and sweat made the dirt from the ground smear as mud upon my flushed face. Really, all I could see was feet from my bowing position on the dirt floor. My assumption was that it was Jesus. Then slowly the feet began to walk away from me out of disgust. As if to just leave me as I am. In what I saw as my humility , I was on my knees in an attempt to both crawl towards Him and gain enough momentum to rise to my feet in order to run towards him in sheer desperation for forgiveness and acceptance. It was then that it happened. The Lord spoke to my heart so directly and said, "That is not Jesus. Jesus would not be walking away from you."

And so, with those few words I sat up and started thinking about this more clearly. What freedom that brings. Jesus would not be walking away. It's not that I don't have to choose to run towards Him when I am pressed down by my sin and filth, but that when I get to Him I can stop and rest...and be forgiven. No more chasing Him, trying to convince Him of the good girl that I am (yeah right) and begging Him for understanding.

And so, I instead reach the feet of Jesus who stands square in front of me (and if I look closely may have even taken steps towards me) and I start to climb up His legs, and body to cling to Him out of a thankful heart. His arms are extended ready for embrace and He gently wipes away all the filth that is covered on my face, wipes it on his white robe, and takes it as His own...Hallelujah.

Pass the Cheer

2007-11-08T08:22:00.000-06:00

Is Starbucks new tag line for the season. And man, did they deliver! I was so cold this morning and I just wanted something warm to start my day off with before walking into my igloo, I mean office. So, I pointed the car west, drove through a miserable school zone, and headed to the nearest Starbucks. My first reason for excitement had to do with the fact that the new holiday drinks are available...joy! My personal favorite is the Pumpkin Spice Latte so I was just anxious as I awaited my turn to get to the giant speaker where I could place my glorious drink order.

Then, when it was finally my turn to order, the woman who was assisting me was extremely friendly, wait, cheerful, and it actually felt genuine, not cheesy. I found myself with a real smile on my face as I drove from the drive through speaker to the window. That's pretty rare at 7:57am.

And finally, as I arrived to the window, I glanced around to find 5 busy bees working behind the scenes for Starbucks. They were taking orders, making crazy coffee drinks and smiling and cracking jokes to one another as they fought the early morning rush. They actually seemed happy to be there. To serve. To start my day off right. And they did.

As I drove away and had my first sip of pumpkin bliss. I was overjoyed by the simple pleasures the Lord gives us. And for that, I hope to pass the cheer...

To learn more, check out this book: The Starbucks Experience

God of Creation

2007-11-07T15:46:00.000-06:00

Last night after work I took Enzo for a walk/jog around the pond behind my office. It was great. The area was quiet and it was already starting to get dark. The Lord had painted the sky with fiery reds and pinks as the sun set. It was the perfect kind of cold too. Enough chill for a sweatshirt and the kind where your cheeks fill the slightest sting from moving against the wind. And you just know that if someone were to reach out and touch your nose it would be cold to the touch. It was perfect. There is so much peace in moments like that for me. I feel that even if everything does not seem perfect in my life, that I still have so much reason to be grateful to this eternal God who takes the time to paint the skies in a wide array of hues for us. Who takes the time to have the seasons fall as varying backdrops for our lives. Who takes the time to place ducks in a busy park pond who flap around and fish for food for our delight. And a God who gives us the senses that we have so that we can feel the joy of winter's first cold nose. He is so much bigger and kinder and more beautiful than I could ever even attempt be. But I guess that's why I'm not God. But I pray for His heart daily and I pray that this life that He has given me will makes things a fraction of how beautiful His splendor is. To Him be the glory. Amen. Let it be.

Not Another Manic Monday

2007-11-05T16:02:00.000-06:00

Man, I don't know if it's the time change or what but this day has been one of the longest days of my life! I can't believe it's not even 5pm yet. Wow, okay, I can do it.

The Bachelor is on tonight. My guilty pleasure. They have the overnight dates tonight. I am sure that Kari and I will be ranting about that the whole show. Christin, I have faith in you. You will be on that show next year and you will represent. None of this, I have Christian morals stuff and then running topless down the beach.

Fun Times with Friends

2007-11-05T08:36:00.000-06:00

Here are a few fun pics from what Matt named, "Hot Totty Night". Enjoy!

In the Quiet

2007-11-03T23:39:00.000-05:00

It's late. I have tried to go to sleep a couple of times but I am just so dang antsy. I am staying the night at my parents tonight and I think the fact that they have the Internet, well, it's like sirens just calling and alluring me out of bed.

I have read quite a bit of Cold Tangerines so far and I LOVE this book already. It is so well written and it's touching. I had one tiny tear trickle down the side of my face tonight while reading it. I relish moments like that. She says that her book is a shameless appeal for celebration. How we should count each moment in our life as precious. How splendid it is to live in the present moment and enjoy the gifts of the Creator. How simple it is to forget.

Enzo had a long day today. He stayed in his crate a lot since we are at my parents. He would ever so often come out and make a quick trip around the house and then quickly journey back into his safe place. Sweet baby. I read up on some ways to try and help socialize him. Hopefully I will have the discipline to follow through. And hopefully Matt will stop trying to scare the hell out of him just to make me mad....ugh...brothers.

My parents made it home tonight safe and sounds from their much deserved cruise. They had a great time. Every time they leave and I have limited access to them, I get suddenly homesick, hence the sleepovers at the house this weekend. I started to think about how different my life would be if I could not pick up the phone to call my mom to discuss the smallest of details in my life. I pray that the Lord BLESS us with many more years of memory-making and precious small talk. Okay, enough of that. I will get teary eyed and honestly, freak myself out. Dad killed it at the casino on vacation. I think he said he walked away being about $900 up. He handed Matt and I each $100 to partake in his fun of winning. He is always so generous. Anyone up for a steak dinner?

Really should go to bed now. Enzzy is already snuggled up next to me, probably dreaming about fleeing from scary strangers. I am so glad that I have him for the upcoming winter. He is like a little hot water bottle and helps keep me warm through the night. He needs me too of course. : )

Goodnight. Sleep tight. Don't let the bed bugs bite.

Oh, The Friends That I Have...

2007-11-03T15:53:00.000-05:00

I am such a lucky girl. I posted on Thursday that I was dying to get the new book called Cold Tangerines. On Friday, I strolled into my room at my parents home and to my surprise...there was the book that was on the top of my wish list. You know who you are... and you rock! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Also, we had "Hot Toddy Night" last night. Matt made the worst Hot Toddy of my life (not that I have ever had one before). Jenn took pictures. More to come.

E-T-S-Y

2007-11-02T10:38:00.001-05:00

Someone got a new little gift off of Etsy today. Do you know who it is? You can guess but I won't tell.

YAY!

Cold Tangerines

2007-11-01T16:26:00.000-05:00

I am so super excited right now. I love Lynne Hybels. She is wife to Pastor Bill Hybels in Chicago and an author who wrote a book that guided me at a crucial time in my walk called "Nice Girls Don't Change the World". You can read this in a single day and I HIGHLY recommend it. It made me laugh and cry all in the comfort of my own little room. It will forever be precious to me. I actually took the time to write Lynne and thank her for her honesty and she RESPONDED. I was honored.

Anyway, the reason for my excitement is that her daughter, Shauna Niequist, just wrote her first book (how brave) and it's called Cold Tangerines. This definitely just got added to the Christmas list (if I can even wait that long). Anyway, I will review it for you once I have it read but I bet it will be inspiring...so buy it now! It's almost Friday - pay day. Perfect timing.

Love and Cold Tangerines.

I'm a Sucker

2007-11-01T12:38:00.000-05:00

Well, last night after Bible study I was so tired and just wanted to spend 20 glorious minutes in the tanning bed. So, I go into a Palm Beach Tan where I am a member. I decided to go to the one off MacArthur since I was a little further from home. So, I was lotionless and people who work at the salon do not want you to be lotionless. Oh no. So they talked me into buying a single packet. I didn't really care either way so I said yes to the small purchase. I tell them to just pick one out for me. I hand over the credit card and the cost for a measly single use bronzer was $8.25. E-I-G-H-T T-W-E-N-T-Y F-I-V-E!! And what's even more ridiculous is that I PAID IT! I would have loved to decline their upsell but I was in such sticker shock that no words came out of my mouth. I mean, I am sure they were just highly concerned about my skin and not my money...right? Yeah, that's it.

Yes, I am a sucker. But a bronzer sucker.

Finally!

2007-10-25T18:06:00.000-05:00

Well, finally a successful Thursday. I made it to class early and the dog is tied down to the bed. Okay, not really. But close enough. I turn in my mid-term tonight and my paper for missing class last week. Whew...so glad that is over. Now I can just go into the weekend ready to enjoy.

I have lots on the agenda already for the weekend. Dinner with friends, the new Steve Carrell movie, Dan in Real Life, the National Cowgirl Museum , Piccomolo's and Joe T's (twice in one weekend I might add). Good times. I may even get to play golf on Sunday if I can convince the boys to start at 9am instead of 7am. It's worth it, trust me.

Okay, that's all my brain has for you right now. I have to save what's left for the dreadful class ahead of me. Peace out.

Thursday - Round 2

2007-10-21T11:11:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I am sure that many of you read about the debacle of a couple Thursday's past. But the drama continued this last Thursday. Read on...

I have class on Thursday nights and Mel is such an awesome friend that she takes Enzo every Thursday so Enzo can spend time with their lab, Maggie rather than be locked up in a crate. Well, this past Thursday I was to give a presentation for my mid-term project. I am on my way out to class and in almost the exact same spot as the week before, I get a call from Mel saying that Enzo had jumped the fence right in front of her and Chris and that only being 20 seconds behind him, he was no where to be found. She said that he put his tiny feet on a cinder block and then off he went.

I tried to call Amberton to talk to my professor but no luck. All the phones where down. I decide to journey on to class and try to get through the presentation but by the time I made to campus and Enzo had still not been found, I looked lovely with a tear-stained face. Not ideal for presenting. My professor was cool and told me to head out in search of my dog. Thank you, Lord! I felt so silly...like I was using the excuse "my dog ate my paper".

I got back in the car and headed back to Coppell. I kept calling Mel to check on the status to no avail. Now I was really freaking out. I called my dad and he started the commute to Coppell to help me hunt down the dog. For those of you that don't know Enzo, he is super skittish and we thought he surely had to be hiding in a bush because of all the people out yelling his name and all cars driving though the neighborhood. It felt like we searched every bush in Meadow Glen.

It started to get dark...and cold. My dog has no body fat and hardly any hair. I knew he was going to be cold and even more scared. At one point, it was me, my dad, my mom, Mel and Chris, and Holly and JM looking for Enzo. Did I mention I have awesome friends and family? We looked high and low. I was honestly in shock that we had not had any luck yet. Finally, we had to decide to stop looking. It was heartbreaking. Kari came and stayed the night with me at Mel's. I was so thankful for that. She brought me pj's and all that good stuff. We decided to lay a blanket, my clothes, one of his toys and some food out front by the door. We heard that if I left some clothes then he could smell them and journey back.

I finally was able to fall asleep and then at 2am I woke up and was just so hopeful that Enzo would be there by the front door. I rushed to the door and instantly looked outside to the little corner to the left. He wasn't there. I was brokenhearted all over again. Then at 6am, me, Mel and Kari got up to go print flyers. We went up to the office and made 150 flyers. We posted them as fast as we could. We plastered Mel's neighborhood. Did I mention that our office had staff retreat Friday morning and we only had a couple hours to get all our work done? Just great. So after we hung flyers everywhere and stuffed them in mailboxes we headed the office as is. We looked beautiful, let me tell ya.

I tried to focus as best I could. I tried not to look at his dog bed in the office or his chew toys or dog bowls. I tried to just get things done. I got a call about an hour into work from a lady that had seen a "found sign". To bad it was for a black and white dog. Boo. Then came the call we had all been praying for!

A lady called and said that she had Enzo. She said that she had been driving her son to school and she could not figure out why everyone was driving so slow on Beltline. Finally, she was able to see the cause. Enzo was running down the street in Friday morning traffic. She said he looked terrified. She stopped her van and tried to corner him. Finally he came to her. I was so excited. I don't think I have smiled that big in so long...I was glowing! All the girls in the office were so excited too. Me, Kari and Mel loaded up in the car to get my baby. He was at the intersection of Beltline and MacArthur. Very far from home. He certainly was not hiding in bushes.

Enzo is home safe and sound. Still eating a ton for a little guy but is all caught up on sleep now. I am so thankful to all the people who knew how important Enzo is to my life and took this so seriously. They searched for him without question, just like they would if it were my child. I know he's just a dog but he's who I pour out so much of my love too. Thanks to the woman who took time to stop and return Enzy to his home. I want to be a woman that is that thoughtful. And I praise the One who delights in mercy.

Welcome home Enzo!

Fall Wines

2007-10-17T16:53:00.001-05:00

http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/drinking/wine/drinknow_october2007?mbid=RF

Spin Me Right Around

2007-10-11T18:32:00.000-05:00

Well, today was quite the adventure. I woke up at 6:24 this morning to let Enzo out and was nearly blown over by the smell of gas, so I thought. I laid in bed and decided to text Kari and have her take a quick smell out back when she woke up. But as I was attempting to drift back off to dreamland where I frolic through fields of daisies, I kept thinking to myself, "what if the house blows up and I could have saved us?" Dreadful, I know. So, I called my mom and asked her if there can be gas leaks outside. This is new territory to me. Some things are just not common sense to this natural blond. Duh, she said in a much nicer way. So I hung up and called the Atmos energy emergency line.

They told me to evacuate immediately, to not use my cell phone again and not to start any vehicles near the property. Umm, excuse me but what do I do if I can't call anyone to pick me up and I can't take my own car to evacuate? But at any rate, in my most serious tone I rushed to wake up the roommates (did I mention that I panic in stressful situations?), they tossed on their clothes and it was then, in an extremely rare moment, we caught a glimpse of a slightly grumpy Kari. Still sweet but fighting the grumpies. And at her expense, it's amusing. So anyways, there we three are, standing on the side of Russell Avenue in our pj's and Enzo in tow. Awesome start to the morning.

The rebels we are, we decided to risk it and start the car. No explosion. But now we needed to figure out where to go at 6:45 in the morning. We rolled through the McDonald's drive thru and then headed to the nearest parking lot...to sit...and sit. Finally, the Atmos man showed up and poked and prodded around. He finally said it was safe to take a shower. Ashley and Kari quickly got ready to head off to their 9 to 5's while I sat around watching the Cosby show in hopes that Atmos was going to solve the mysterious gas leak. No luck. I decided to head into work and have him call him when he was done solving the mystery. When he finally called he told me that there had been no gas leak...that is until he busted a pipe doing a test. Good gosh man.

Now, why don't you go ahead and cut to 5pm today and I start making the horrific traffic filled drive to Frisco for class. One a side note, not one more freakin person needs to move to Frisco. NO VACANCIES! After 45 minutes of sitting in bumper to bumper and jamming to the new Remedy album, I get a call from a sweet little man named Pat saying he has found my precious little puppy. For the love! So, I flip the car around and head to Coppell where I am house sitting only to find Enzo backed into the corner of a random house where he had successfully pooped himself from being scared out of his head. I thanked stranger Pat profusely for watching my baby and then I rushed over to Mel's, gave the shaky dog a bath, went back to the neighbors to clean up dog poo and now...now... I am supposed to drive back to class. I don't think so. Not to hear some crummy lecture from my interim teacher and then half the class comment on EVERYTHING because they think they know more than Einstein. Oh no, not tonight.

What a day. What a day. Thank God Grey's is on tonight. And the Rocky Road in the fridge is calling my name. Calgon take me away, will you?

Weekend Lowdown

2007-10-05T15:07:00.000-05:00

Well, it's Friday and I am just about done with my work week. I have had just about enough of placing nannies for the week. No more emails, no more calls, no more interviews.

I am watching sweet Karli tonight. We will do something fun for sure. Her birthday is on the 10th so I bought her all the latest Littlest Pet Shop critters...a sparkly dragonfly and a black Scottie dog (they are fuzzy now) and one cute Webkinz. Man, those things are selling like hot cakes. I practically had to threaten a little girls life at Hallmark the other night just to get one. I was kind of making fun of them when I made my way up to the counter to make my purchase and the cashier told me that if I had any extra money that I needed to purchase one for myself. Whoops...found another Webkins groupie. Lady, if I have extra money I will be buying myself something other than a stuffed animal that has a pass code to website. I don't care what the craze is about.

Tomorrow night is the big 2-8. Wow. That's really all I have to say about that. Going to do the family dinner thing at PF Changs and I already have my mind set on my favorite Key Lime Martini...maybe two. Happy Birthday to me.

I plan to clean my disaster of a room this weekend. I was reading last night that a home with no order means you also have an unorderly soul. Ouch. It really did weigh on me for good reason but I will touch on that in a more serious blog.

I made it a whole week without checking myspace. I was proud of myself. One more week to go. I can do it, people.

P&L

Looking For The Change

2007-10-04T19:26:00.000-05:00

Here is one of my favorite quotes from The Journals of Jim Elliot. If you don't have his journal, I recommend that you get it and read it slowly. The man was a maniac. May we be that way for Christ.

"I sense that I am dwelling in a generation to whom nothing is holy. Sacredness is an aspect this people never assumes toward anything. In a rebellious reaction to Victorian prudishness, they revel in bald frankness which enervates moral consciousness. Tragedy is that I feel it affecting me. We have a noncommittal morality. Nothing is so bad, and nothing is so good. Everything is a muddle of both." Jim Elliot

Not much has changed, eh?

My Newest Purchase

2007-10-03T12:32:00.000-05:00

I bought a new painting for my collage wall in my bedroom. Oh glorious day. Like it?

Rain Rain Go Away

2007-10-03T09:25:00.001-05:00

Well, it's raining here in the Big D. I know what you're thinking..."Courtney, this is great news! We need the rain." Yeah, well, you're wrong for a couple of reasons. The reasons mainly center around me but I am sure you will understand once I take the time to explain...

As mentioned in a previous blog, I hate the mornings. How does pitch black and the sound of pitter patter help me get out of my bed? Answer: it doesn't. I did manage to get out of bed at 7:52am which allowed me the privilege of strolling into work at around 8:20am. Yeah, you guessed it...I look hot. Actually, waking up late was not in the plans for me this morning. You see, I have a very important photograph being taken later this afternoon at the DMV. Finally, my drivers license has expired and I get to replace the awful poodle picture that I have endured for 4 years. But I digress.

Reason two for my disgruntlement at the rain this dreary morning...Enzo. So now am I not only running late for work but I have to put my poor, sleepy dog in the backyard in the hopes that he will step off the back stoop to do his business. God forbid he gets wet. Then, once I let him back in if I am not on my A game then he will go running past me and dive back into my bed, only to get the sheets covered with mud. Well who the heck is on their A game when they hate the mornings? Not this girl. At this stage in the game I barely have my eyes open and my towel is still wrapped around my body and I have to hold it on with one hand for dear life for fear that one of my roommates may see a little too much of Courtney this morning. Oh, that's right...they have all left for work by now. Shocker.

At any rate, this afternoon I will be washing sheets. So, just remember that when you are all enjoying the rain and prancing around with your umbrellas.

Movie Reviews

2007-10-02T10:17:00.001-05:00

Two Weeks starring Sally Field

I watched this movie last night and I cried like a little girl. This was a touching film about family and how important it is to come together when you lose a loved one. And because losing a mother will be so terribly hard I have decided that I never want to lose my mom. Mom, can you stay forever? That would be ideal. Thanks.

I would highly recommend this movie, but make sure that you are in the mood for something heavy. And don’t watch this is you are in the process of losing someone or have recently lost someone. Well, maybe you should watch it…you might relate. Hmmm...not sure about that one.

The great news is that this movie makes you laugh at just the right time. There were times when I could picture myself sitting at the table with my brother spewing orange juice through my nose because of side-splitting laughter at something only we would think is funny…even in spite of a painful situation. It is a film that insightful, moving, heart-wrenching and humorous all rolled into one story. Sally Field is amazing. You can feel her pain. Mom, you still with me? Just checking.

Well, just call me Chris Crocker

2007-10-02T09:28:00.000-05:00

Okay, maybe not. But seriously, poor Britney Spears officially lost custody of her children yesterday and all we can do is make fun of her? I just don't understand. I actually heard some bit on the radio yesterday saying that she was more broken up up losing her bag of Cheese Doritos over losing her children. Come on man! She lost her children. She has been considered an unfit mother. I don't care who you are, that would make you feel terribly insecure and worthless.

I just hope that as Christians, our hearts would break for her. I pray that the Lord draws her close to Him after she tries running for so long. I pray that He restores some sort of normal life to her and that she will have the ability to make good choices. And I also pray that we don't glorify her situation.

And with that said...enough of the Britney Spears drama. It is sad though.

And now, for your viewing pleasure.

The Mondays

2007-10-01T13:15:00.000-05:00

Well, it's Monday and another week begins. For those of you that know me well, know that I am far from being a morning person. I strolled out of bed at 8am (the time I should be logging in at the office) and so I started my day off with "The Mondays". Thank you Office Space.

My goal this week is to be great at work. JT, Brent and I had a long talk this week about wanting to excel at our jobs, and be great stewards with out time. We also discussed how hard that struggle is at times. I am praying for the Lord's mercy because that means that I have to get up on time. Enzo is at work with me today. I have been pondering ways to make his life not so boring. Hmm...still no creative ideas there.

I gave up myspace for a couple of weeks starting today. I feel good about my decision. I know, I am a rebel.

My 28th Birthday was celebrated early this past Friday at Coal Vines. We had a great time just eating a long, lazy dinner and enjoying each other's company. I am blessed with great friends.

The Bachelor is on tonight. Don't forget people. It's what makes the world go round.