The Bayou Belles and Their Beau

I was impressed.

2012-02-13T06:00:00.007-06:00

I watched the interview with Adele last night on "60 Minutes."

I was seriously impressed with her. Being impressed with her voice is a given. It's amazing. But I was more impressed with her thinking and the confidence she expressed in who she is.

The fact that she's sold over 18 million albums in her very short career speaks volumes. She is definitely one talented chick!

But her success also demonstrates that you don't have to look a certain way for people to absolutely love you. It kind of shocks me that there are a lot of people out there that know what real talent is. And there's no disputing that she's got it.

When she was asked, Does she feel pressure to look like a video girl?, she answered: "I don't want to be some skinny mini with my (bleep ... she used another word for breast here) out. And I don't want people confusing what it is that I'm about. I just stand there and sing. And I don't do stunts or anything. If I wanted to do all that, I don't think I'd get away with it."

Watch what she says here. Love it!

That sounds like someone who knows who she is and what she's about (and at such a young age). She seems to have her head on pretty straight.

I wish we were a little more like her in this area. Not allowing anything or anyone influence us in the way we feel about ourselves.

It'd be even greater if we spent our time celebrating who we are and less of our time complaining that we're not like someone else! Thank God we're all different.

Just goes to show, that no matter, what your talent will make room for you. (Prov. 18:16) I guess this applies to the world too. Although the gift He's planted in you and given to you is to be used for His glory. He can use this gift to bring people to Himself. Imagine if all the talent of the superstars & major talents of the world was being used the way it was destined to be used ... Wow. All that together to bring others to the Lord, to shine forth His glory. That would be pretty incredible!

Hm. I just used Adele to prove a spiritual point. Interesting how my mind works.

And for the record, I do think Adele is quite beautiful no matter whether she could sing or not. But, I absolutely love the fact that she can.

Get More: Adele, Set Fire To The Rain (Live At The Royal Albert Hall), Music, More Music Videos

Church Kids

2012-02-09T06:00:00.005-06:00

Kids can be mean, but church kids can be the meanest.

That's so sad to say, but so true.

Ugh. Why?

These kids should be different from the world. We all should.

Just recently, my child was in tears over hurtful things said about her. So hurtful that she no longer wants to go to the service she attends. And the crazy thing is that she's one of the most faithful supporters of this ministry and has even brought multiple unsaved friends from her school to this service.

As a mother, it makes me so angry. The teacher in me wants to head over to the church next week with a paddle.

Seriously?

Why are church kids so mean? So non-accepting?

It all boils down to insecurity. We all know that. When people are insecure, they make themselves look good by putting down others, or making others feel bad about themselves, or even mocking others. That's the way it goes.

Geez. Bullying in the church too. Where will it end?

Most of these kids have grown up together in the church. Yet, as they get older, they quickly decide on who will be "cool" to be friends with and who will not. The non-accepting groups that are formed usually force a lot of kids out from the one place where they should feel most accepted.

My kid is a church kid.

My prayer for both of my girls has always been that they would not grow cold to the church because they've spent so much time there. I pray that their hearts always stay tender toward God, the things of God, and people.

I would be horrified if one of my girls was ever a part of gossip or rumors being spread about another person. I would nip that in the bud right away. But, my girl's not the one doing the gossiping but the one being gossiped about. Heartbreaking!

One person's opinion of another is not truth.

All it takes is one kid saying, "I don't like her" or "She's weird" and then it starts.

What a shame.

It's more of a shame for them that they won't get an awesome opportunity to know the person they have a pre-conceived notion about. Shame on them.

Now ... we're working through this and I know she will be stronger for it. She's pretty strong to begin with and typically doesn't let a whole lot bother her. But, this one stings a bit.

I absolutely love who she is and who she's becoming.

She continues to surprise me.

2012-02-06T06:00:00.001-06:00

K Belle is one talented girl. If you've been with me long enough, you've seen videos of her before playing piano, singing, acting, etc.

Well ... wouldn't you know it! This girl posted a couple of videos of her singing to some friends on Facebook (I'm sure she was thinking I wouldn't see them. Duh.) She knows I'm her biggest fan and hates the gushing over how awesome she is. I can't help it. Geez.

She's just so darn good.

So without further ado ... here's two videos I found.

The first ... playing and singing "The Story," one of my favorite songs. Yes, our piano is incredibly out of tune.

And ... this one is funny to me because she's actually just laying in her bed and watching TV while singing, "The Stand." Actually, we were napping during this so she said she was trying to sing quietly.

Yep. She's pretty awesome.

True Story.

2012-02-03T06:00:00.001-06:00

At around 6:30 p.m., I carried on a whole conversation with Beau about my plans to lose about ten pounds by Easter. I mentioned that I really needed to set out with a plan soon.

Yeah. I always have plans. Some of them succeed; some ... um ... not so much.

By 8:00 p.m., I was in the kitchen baking a cake.

In my defense, it was simply to eat the batter. (Like that's less calories)

(not saying I didn't eat any cooked cake afterwards, but the point was always the batter)

I always fluctuate with my eating and exercise. Always.

I can go a few months totally faithful to running, eating right, and even lifting a few weights. Then, I'll go the next few months eating junk and maybe going on one run a week.

I tend to lack motivation.

So ... I'm devising a plan. And this plan will be posted.

It's accountability I need.

I figure if I let it all hang out and post about my failures and successes, it will help.

The plan starts soon.

I promise to not disappoint you.

Now ... maybe one more tiny bite of cake won't hurt.

It's Groundhog's Day every day.

2012-02-02T06:00:00.000-06:00

Really, it is.

(This is how I feel every morning.)

The same thing, day in and day out with only a few switcheroos.

The change comes down to us.

What will we do with today that's an improvement on yesterday?
What will make this day stand out as different?

It's us. It's me.

I hate the fact that we can fight the same battles every day. I know it's not only me.
Today, I'd like to win one of those battles and not have to repeat the fight the next day. Not at all. I'd like a few things to be defeated in my life.

I'd also like to trust, love, and have more compassion (which we've heard all about) today. More than yesterday or the day before.

All those things really boil down to me. Not God. But me. He's given me all the tools I need to accomplish them all. I just have to put them in action.

Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn't love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that. - Ephesians 5:1-2

Of course I'm compassionate.

2012-01-30T07:58:00.000-06:00

I'm learning that nothing comes as a surprise to God.

I'm the first one to stand up for someone whom I believe has been treated unjustly. The. First. (If you know me, you know that's true. This girl's always got your back. Always.)

Years ago, I took one of those spiritual gifts test. Most of it was accurate.

I scored highest in (surprise, surprise) administration ... it's like saying I'm good at bossing people around. Woo hoo! Yay for me. Great characteristic. (said in my most sarcastic voice)

And in a close second by only one or two points was discernment. Yep. I can see that in my life quite a bit. There's many times I know what's going on without anyone telling me anything. But the best part about that gift is being able to sense that someone's hurt because then I can help.

So there you go ... someone who can sense something about someone and then tell them what to do. Pretty much what I do.

Beau says I lecture too much. But in my mind, I feel like I'm helping. I can obviously see what's wrong with your life and I know how you can fix it. Geez. It's not rocket science.

Getting back to my point, one of my lowest scores was compassion.

Here's where I think the test is bunk.

I am extremely compassionate. If I saw anyone was in need, I'd do whatever I could to help them. Whatever it took. I wish I could take every orphan child into my home. I wish I could help to get every prostitute off the street. I wish I could get every addict help to overcome their addiction. I wish I could care for the sick and dying. I wish I could hold the hands of those who are scared and lonely. I wish I could help every woman and child in need. I wish I could find the homeless homes. And the list goes on ...

I would go to bat for most anyone who needed it.

My problem lies in deciding who needs it and who doesn't. Sometimes we all tend to sit in judgment of those whom we deem not worthy of compassion.

God's dealing with me on that. How dare I or anyone else determine who needs compassion? Because God knows I need it a lot.

Nope. I'd much rather sit back and say "I told you so, Dummy. You shouldn't have done that. That was a stupid choice. Did you think about all the ramifications of that one action? Did you think how that choice would affect other people around you?" And I could go on there too. (Hence my problem.)

But, I don't know EVERYTHING. That's the part I have to continue to remember. And then grant compassion and grace anyway simply because God offers me so much.

Granted, there are many times people need tough love and someone to just tell them the truth. That's what I tend to do, but am trying to work on sitting back and letting God handle it. It's almost like my tongue has a mind of it's own. Biting it does not help. I need a lock on that thing.

I'm learning that when someone hurts me, is ugly to me, makes decisions for me, plain 'ol doesn't like me, and so on again ... that action is not a surprise to God. It may have not been His choice for me. But He knew it was going to happen, and now I choose the way I'm going to handle it.

I have a friend who is EXTREMELY compassionate, almost to a fault sometimes. I tease her about it now and then. Anytime someone is in the wrong ... and they are in the wrong, she makes an excuse for them. I let her know when she's being too forgiving. Because I'm obviously the judge and jury on that. She believes the best of everyone. Me? Depends ... if I know their character, then yes or if I know there character, no. We joke about her being so glass-half-full in the most ridiculous scenarios. But, she offers compassion to everyone. And, I mean EVERYONE even when I think they absolutely do not need it or deserve it.

The thing is she's right.

Now, I'm not saying I can be like her because that's going to be darn hard. But, I can shut up and let God handle each situation.

I told Beau last night that I think God's just messing with me sometimes in areas where I struggle with understanding and granting compassion. When I get faced with the same issues over and over again, I feel like He says to me, "Are you still going to obey me?" When decisions are made for me, will I continue to be faithful? When people do things I don't agree with, will I think the best of them or have compassion for them?

I'm working on it, Lord.

And, why? Because I know He is faithful and compassionate.

I read this morning in Psalms that "He guards the lives of the faithful." No matter what happens, He GUARDS me. He knows what's going to happen; How will I respond?

I am determined to strive for better obedience to my Lord at all costs.

(no matter what stupid things people do ... ugh ... see?)

Have you heard this song by Kari Jobe yet? Lyrics are spot-on.

So sad.

2012-01-25T06:00:00.001-06:00

I was very saddened yesterday after reading this story:

Former ORU President Richard Roberts Arrested on DUI Complaint

As you may know from reading my blogs or knowing me, not only did I graduate from ORU, but Beau worked for Richard Roberts in the television department for years. He had many conversations with him and he and I each have always held him in high esteem, even despite some negative reports heard in the past few years. He was nothing but kind, understanding, and just an all-around good guy to us. He's prayed for both Beau and K Belle before and spoken many wise words to Beau. He taught one of my classes called "Holy Spirit in the Now," which I thoroughly enjoyed and learned quite a bit about the charismatic movement. We've always liked both him and Lindsay (whom we also had many interactions with).

I took the news years ago about the Roberts leaving ORU and the alleged inappropriate behaviors in stride. It really didn't change my opinion of them.

And, now this.

When I read the article last night, I was just sad. Plain sad.

Not because I was disappointed in him (which I may have been a bit), but sad for him. Sad for whatever he's facing and even sadder about what he's about to face.

I thought about how his name is associated with my degree that hangs on my wall at work. That made me a little sad too. But I still remain proud in my accomplishment and what an incredible university ORU was and continues to be. If my girls said they wanted to attend ORU, I wouldn't hesitate to send them there (if I had the major moolah). I am confident in the awesome education they would get and the even more awesome relationships that would be built there. ORU has a huge sense of community and unity. It's pretty awesome! Oh, yeah ... I already said that.

I also thought about how there will be many people that will have a heyday with this. Bring on the naysayers! And those who said "I told you so."

My mind always goes to David in moments like these because he's so easy to relate to for me ... actually for everyone. He had struggles. He fell multiple times. But what amazes me is how the people never turned against him.

I'm sure Richard Roberts will not have that kind of support despite all the positive things he's done for people and the great things he's done for God.

For that, it's sad.

I want to make sure that I'm quick to offer grace because I need SO much!

Moms cry for the darndest things.

2012-01-23T08:27:00.000-06:00

Confession time: I cried over my child making a bad grade last week.

There's gotta be some other loopy moms out there that have done the same. And, yes, I literally have cried 2-3, maybe even 4 times this school year over grades. I know ... Insane. (Don't ever pray for God to make you more sensitive.)

I may or may not have also go into this whole rant about how important grades are (which they are) and something about throwing your life away (which they will if they don't make good grades). A little over the top. Or maybe not. (Do you see how I may be a little bi-polar?)

Right now, I'm just living from break to break. I ask myself at the end of the last school break, "When's the next break?"Only a few more weeks until we get another one. Hallelujah! Mardi Gras is just around the corner and summer's not far behind it.

There's way less drama in the summer.

Between the waking up at 6:00 AM and having to patrol homework & grades, I'm not sure I like when the girls are in school at all.

Oh, but how I whine and complain two weeks into summer vacation about how it's time for them to go back to school! I secretly like them being home. ;) (as long as I hear no "You're being a jerk." or "You're acting like a brat." which is pretty common around my house lately)

So despite the fact that we are not Catholic and do not celebrate Mardi Gras, aside from the eating of the king cake, I anxiously look forward to this holiday. Bring it on so we can get a break!

In celebration, be looking for my annual Mardi Gras giveaway coming soon!

Some of the Dumbest Things I Heard This Week

2012-01-20T06:00:00.002-06:00

Mark Wahlberg said this week that if he would have been on one of the planes on 9/11, he basically would have killed the terrorists and saved everyone. How insensitive and purely stupid! Click here to read the whole story and how he apologized. Well, thank God for that. That was dumb, Mark, really, really dumb.

Equally dumb was Newt saying he wanted an "open" marriage to his second wife. Now this second-ex-wife (what a title and a statement) comes out with all kinds of negative stuff about the speaker. Newt, I'm sure you realized all this would be found out. You should've been nicer to this ex-wife. And, really? An "open" marriage? That's just dumb, Newt, really, really dumb. (It really makes me not like Calista.) (Story here.)

A Ron Paul supporter backed up traffic for hours with this hot air balloon. The balloon was set up in the middle of the road during rush hour. Duh. I'm pretty sure if I was on the fence about whether or not to vote for Ron Paul, this would have made it a definite NO. (Don't worry. I was never a Ron Paul fan.) Way to go, guys, way to go. Dumb. (Story here.)

And, on the home-front, I haven't run since Saturday (unless you count the lame mile I ran at a snail's pace last night ... I've lost my mojo.) ... dumb, dumb.

You can't live their lives for them.

2012-01-18T06:00:00.002-06:00

Everyone knows being a parent is hard.

It's the hardest job I've ever had. "Job" isn't really the right word. I do consider it a privilege that God has given to me. I do not take it lightly.

As my girls get older, it just gets harder. Sorry, parents of babies and toddlers. There are days I pray to change a diaper or have a sleepless night. I miss those days.

But, also, as my girls get older, they get cooler and even more fun to be around (not that they weren't before). Their personalities really start to shine through, as well as their temperaments. And, there are times when I see some of the values I've instilled in them put into action and notice a hunger for the things of God.

Honestly, each age has its challenges, but I find the middle school & teenage years harder.

I am in a constant struggle to get not worked up about things that I can't control. That's pretty much key with everything in life.

I can only control so much.

I can control their environments & their consequences, but I cannot control their choices. Only they can do that. That's when I start to get scared and pray they've gotten something from their parents all these years.

I spend a lot of time praying. A LOT.

It's pretty much my only "control" over their choices.

I pray that God would keep them and they would hold onto Him, never letting go. I pray that they would have a hunger for Him and the things of Him. I pray that God would put a drive and ambition in them to do something great in their lives for Him, and not settle for anything less than His best. I pray that God would give them wisdom ... so much wisdom. I pray for protection and guidance.

And, I pray for SO MUCH MORE WISDOM FOR ME. This stuff is hard.

In the end, it is THEIR choice, THIER life.

A lot of times the only thing I can do is pray, then trust that God always knows best and loves them even more than I do.

Fingers crossed that I'm doing an OK job because God knows it's not awesome. Also praying that they'll need no therapy later on.

One thing's for sure. I stinkin' love these girls.

Can't wait to see what God has in store for them!

Am I the only girl whose heart flutters when I know another GOP debate in on?

2012-01-17T06:00:00.004-06:00

Weird, huh?

Because I'm pretty sure I'm the only one watching these debates. Geez. There's been like 17 of 'em.

But, I LOVE them!

And, now candidates are dropping like flies. First, my girl, Michele (I loved, loved, loved her, knew she wasn't going to get the nomination, and am glad she finally gets to blink! See video for explanation.
HI. LARIOUS.)

and now Huntsman (who I had actually thought dropped out a long time ago because he was so forgettable and really irritated me).

After seeing all these debates and listening to what the candidates have to say ... (I'm just gonna put it out there even though you're never supposed to talk politics with your friends.) ... I've grown to really like Rick Santorum. I didn't even know who he was before the debates, but he makes a lot of sense and stands strong for his beliefs. I don't think he'll get the nomination, but he's good, ya'll. Really good! I would vote for him.

Ron Paul ... Whew! When he starts to talk, I get scared. I really think he's crazy.
(Can't get this image out of my head every time I see him.)

Rick Perry ... Never liked him. Never will. Not much else to say about that.

Newt ... Love him. Super smart & quite sassy. I do like that about him. He ain't scared! But ... not sure he can win against Obama. In a debate ... YES, but in the election ... not sure.

And, then there's Mitt ... or as I like to call him, Republican Ken. Seriously ... does he not look like a Ken doll?

(and if you google "Ken doll Mitt Romney" you'll something like this ... obviously I'm not the only one with this view)

I like Mitt. And, yes, he will most likely get the nomination. He's also very smart and is good in the debates. I just wish he wouldn't be so plastic and perfect. I want to see him loosen up his tie and get jiggy with it. That's definitely one of the things I think people liked about Obama. He was a little more human and approachable.

OK. So there it is in order of preference:

1. Santorum
2. Romney
3. Gingrich

The rest ... no. I hope they drop out soon too.

Is it weird that I totally understand this woman's thinking?

2012-01-13T06:00:00.001-06:00

I read this story yesterday:

Pastor's Wife Sends Body Double to Sit Pleasantly on Front Pew

(Please click the link to read this. You won't be disappointed.)

Ridiculous, right?

Then, why do I so sympathize with Trudy.

There's a huge spiritual lesson here. I'm sure you all can see it.

You know ... It's all about her feeling like she was under a microscope, being judged, never truly being able to be herself, yadda yadda yadda. It really is a shame that we feel like we can't be accepted at the one place we should feel accepted. Women do this to themselves a lot.

And, then there's those days when you just don't want to leave the house or want to see anyone. It's just the simple fact that everyone needs downtime, right? We really do. And, that's OK.

There are times that I honestly don't want to do something just because I really want to do nothing at my house. How true is this!

So ... Trudy, I hear ya', sista! No matter how totally insane what you did is.

But, here's my problem with her plan:

If I were to get a body double, I would not find one at Kohl's. I would shoot a little higher. And, make that body double quite a bit better than my own body since no one's really going to see me anyway. Shoot ... They didn't know it wasn't her for two years. TWO YEARS!

What was she doing during this time her body double was at church with her family? Catching up on laundry, her soaps? What in the world?

And, really? Her husband didn't realize it wasn't her in two whole years? I think I'd want to get rid of my husband if he couldn't figure that one out.

I do, however, think her plan was clever. Although absolutely CRAZY.

I think I'll start looking for my own body double tomorrow. She can head over for my next visit to the DMV or OBGYN. Now, that's worth it.

UPDATED: (Just found out that this story is not real. Guess I need to check my facts better. The site is dedicated to satire. Awesome. Did make for a great post topic though. Boy, do I feel dumb now.)

Jesus and Football

2012-01-09T10:31:00.000-06:00

(This picture literally made me snort.)

This is a very dangerous post, especially if you live in the South, and even worse Louisiana. I feel like football has become our lives. It's getting ridiculous.

I have nothing against football. It's fun to watch just like any other 6th-grade volleyball game.

But, we seem to be going overboard. I understand what it means to be a fan. You cheer on your team. You wear the t-shirt on game day. I even own those t-shirts. And, you talk about the previous night's game with your friends. I get it. I played sports, you know.

My Facebook is clogged up with status after status about football, like these individuals are actually on the field and know better than any of those "stupid" coaches. Ugh. And, when the team's doing well ... great posts. But, when the team's losing ... they know what the team should be doing instead. Makes me laugh.

It also makes me stop and think.

How many of these same people don't promote a thing about their faith? Or their church? With the same amount of enthusiasm?

In the end, it really is just a game.

How many of these same people talk about and invite people to non-football-game events at their church? Probably not many, but they would invite those unsaved friends to games out of town and skip church altogether.

Listen ... I am NOT a football-hater. Not at all. I think it's fun and great and I enjoy watching.

I just feel like it can get magnified too much in our lives over things that should be magnified more. Get it?

Just last night, Beau and I sat at home and watched Denver play Pittsburgh. It was a great game. That's it. A. Great. Game.

Now, back to life.

I guess I'm just irritated when I open up my computer and that's all I see ... FOOTBALL, FOOTBALL, FOOTBALL.

Is there a way to be a fan in moderation? Geez.

When someone looks at my life, I would hope that they see way more than just being a certain sports' team fan. I would not want that to hold my identity. Not be what I'm all about.

So ... football fans ... cheer on your team, wear your shirts, eat your chips and queso. But, please share that same enthusiasm for Jesus and your church.

Whew. I may get some flack for this. Ah, well. Ce'st la vie!

(And this post on the night where LSU plays Alabama ... Ha!)

And, now for your viewing pleasure ... (Don't take offense if you already haven't. Just a little humor.)

Those Dreadful Resolutions

2012-01-02T06:00:00.001-06:00

(Ha! This just made me giggle. Definitely something a woman would say!)

I've already posted before about how I don't make resolutions. I just don't.

Resolutions are just something I'm destined to fail at so I spare myself the disappointment.

My real "resolutions" take place every day.

I resolve to be a better wife, mother, friend, child of God each day and then the next day I do the same. By grace ... that's the only way I can be good at any of these things. Trust me. It's only by God's grace. And, even then, sometimes I choose to go around that grace and do my own thing, which is when I fail miserably.

Thank God for that grace He gives me. He's SO good to me.

I think if my number one "resolution" per say would always be to love God with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength, everything else will just fall into place. Then, there would be no reason for those dreadful other resolutions we always make each year.

This verse pretty much sums it up:

He must become more important (increase), and I must become less important (decrease). John 3:30

So as I do make plans to organize quite a bit of things in my house and life, I want to keep that one verse in mind. Not just in mind, but put it in practice.

Now ...

speaking of decreasing, I'm hoping to make my return to the gym this morning after a long sabbatical. I'd like to decrease in multiple ways.

Hope you and yours have a prosperous & blessed 2012!

Burning the cabbage on New Year's Day is OK, right? It's not a bad sign at all.

Even Jesus only had one Christmas.

2011-12-28T06:00:00.002-06:00

I am officially Christmas-ed out.

We had Christmas dinner with the girls' godparents, a Christmas Eve drop-in with friends, Christmas Eve gumbo & presents with my parents, Christmas Day stockings & lunch at my house, Christmas afternoon visiting with Beau's family, Christmas Leftovers' Party with friends Monday night, Christmas dinner and more presents with my dad's family last night, AND ... can you believe it, Christmas at PF Chang's with my mom's side of the family tonight? How else does a typical family celebrate the birth of Christ but with great Chinese food?

Let's count that.

Um ... that's 8 Christmas events. EIGHT.

Wow. That's enough.

I am officially done with eating.

Well ... I guess after tonight I will be.

I'm terrified to step on the scale. TERRIFIED. So, I probably won't. At least for another month or so after I get myself back together.

I have not worked out regularly since the week before Thanksgiving. Horrible. Shameful. Sure, I did a run here and there, but nothing consistent and it's finally catching up with me. My clothes are tight. I'm uncomfortable and could give myself a kick in the you-know-what.

So ... you would say, "No problem, Mama Belle. Just start up Thursday or even Friday."

But, I have this pesky little minor surgery on Friday morning. No big deal. One of those drive-through, in-and-out surgeries. I'm sure I'll be home by the afternoon.

The only part I'm not crazy about is the getting-put-to-sleep part. Thankfully, my mom, the best nurse I know will be there. I requested her to be there so that the other nurses or doctors don't kill me. All those medical dramas have ruined me. I've seen a woman wake up in the middle of her surgery or even worse not wake up from a surgery. Uh ... Too much to think about.

Anyhow, I'm sure I'll be up and ready to go for a run this weekend. Some time. At least I hope so.

In the meantime, I'll give you a taste of what we've had to endure from Roxy's latest Christmas gift (of which she has 3 of). Lord, help us.

Hope your Christmas was blessed!

You're welcome.

2011-12-23T11:24:00.000-06:00

Christmas is right around the corner. Like everyone else, I'm equally swamped with preparations for Christmas day and multiple family celebrations.

Add to that, fielding numerous daily questions like, "What's abortion?" from my 11-year-old (long discussion ensued), and ensuring my 14-year-old still has a pulse due to her massive amount of sleeping. Beau continues to run around and get his last-minute gifts, persistently refuses to use the "GUIDE" button on the remote, and is repeatedly watching YouTube videos by Dirty Loops (It's constant, ya'll. Same songs, over and over again. He's listening to one right now. Dirty Loops, can you please re-make another song for my sanity). I've just been trying to avoid getting out at all and wishing there would be at least one good thing to watch on TV besides those terribly crummy Hallmark/Lifetime Christmas movies. But on a good note, I actually have had a clean house for about a week now. Best accomplishment of the week! (which reminds me I have to put the clothes in the dryer ... be back in a minute)

I was thinking about how nice it would be to have ALL family members from every side at one place at one time. Wow. That would be so much easier. I mean, can't everyone just make things convenient for me? Geez.

When you get together for these things, each time food is involved and usually, you have to bring something. Last night, I pulled out this recipe from Picky Palate for a small get-together at my house.

Um ... they were devoured despite the accidental overdose of condensed milk. Oops.

So easy. Mine didn't turn out as pretty as this picture, so I stole it from their site. Very rich and delicious!

White Chocolate S'mores Gooey Cake Bars
1 large egg
1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
4 1/2 full graham crackers
10 ounce bag white chocolate chips
2 cups mini marshmallows
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk

1 box yellow cake mix

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with tin foil that’s been generously sprayed with cooking spray. Make sure foil goes all the way up and over the edges for this one. It will be a full pan.

Place cake mix, egg, and butter into a large mixing bowl. Mix with hands (THIS IS MESSY & I think a spoon would be OK.) until a nice dough forms similar to a cookie dough. Press half of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan. Layer with graham crackers, white chips then marshmallows. Top with remaining half of dough pressing evenly. Drizzle sweetened condensed milk over top then bake for 28-33 minutes, until cooked through and golden brown on top. Remove from oven. Let cool for 5 minutes then take a plastic knife and run along edges to loosen marshmallow (this will make your life easier when pulling foil out of pan to remove bars. Let cool completely (IMPORTANT if you want them to look decent) then remove bars from pan with foil edges. Cut off all edges if desired, about 1/2 inch each side. I save the edges to snack on too. Cut bars into squares and serve. They are delicious room temperature or chilled.

Merry Christmas to you and yours!

Take time to enjoy your family and remember to thank God for the precious gift of His Son!

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness
from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.
Isaiah 9:6-7

Now on a totally different note and to make sure you're in the-know...

Dirty Loops - Re-make of Justin Bieber's "Baby".
(Go here to be even more pleased when you hear what they've done to Brittany Spears' "Circus".)

It's not NYC, but it's the closest thing we got.

2011-12-22T06:00:00.004-06:00

You know how much I love NYC. I really do. We spent our 15th wedding anniversary there a couple of years ago. It was IN. CRE. DIBLE. Then, we took the girls for Mardi Gras last year. Loved it again!

I'm pretty sure I could fit in there. I really could. This is no joke.

(Shhh ... Beau and I plan to move there when we get old. Maybe. Or at least dream about having an apartment to visit.)

NYC is quite the distance from Cajun country, so we settled for, not New Orleans (been there, done that A LOT), but Houston for our anniversary get-away.

(Note to self and any other non-married person reading this: DO NOT and I mean DO NOT get married near Christmas just to save money on decorations or you think it would be neat to have a Christmas wedding. DON'T DO IT. Your anniversary becomes a secondary thing. This is precisely the reason Beau and I try to get away every year no matter what. It's an important thing to celebrate, you know.)

I absolutely adore Houston.

Our time there was very relaxed. We had no agenda but to enjoy each other's company and sleep late. Yep. That was pretty much the plan. Oh, and eat good food, which we SO did.

Our anniversary dinner was amazing! We chose Mark's American Cuisine.

I have to say it was definitely one of the best meals we've ever eaten, including our NYC meals (and all meals from the South ... which let's face it, has some of the best food around). Seriously ... AMAZING! The only negative part about it was that it was also the most expensive meal we've ever eaten. Quite a chunk o' change. But, let me tell you, worth every penny!

See how excited I am to start eating?

So, let's get this started. You must see what we ate.

Appetizer:

Hearth Roasted Chef Creek Oyster Topped with a Ragout of Jumbo Crabmeat, Shrimp and Roasted Leeks in a Truffle Aioli Vinaigrette

A yummy salad came next which we scarfed down before I could get a picture.

My entree:

Grilled Panama Shrimp with a Ragout of Jumbo Lump Crabmeat atop a Southern Carolina Succotash & Grit Cake with a Chili Spiked Lime Sauce, & Roasted Green Chile, Cilantro Coulis

Beau's entree:

Prime Sirloin of Beef and Chicken Fried Bacon with Roasted Potatoes, Mushrooms, Slow Roasted Peppers with Aged Balsamic Vinegar and a "1658" Steak Sauce

And you didn't think we'd skip dessert, did you?

My dessert:

Tahitian Vanilla Creme Brulee'

(That "Happy Anniversary" is all chocolate. That made me even happier.)

Beau's dessert:

Lemon Cheesecake

If you're ever in Houston and have a few extra bucks, eat there. I promise you will not be disappointed.

As my mama always said, "Children should be seen and not heard." At times, so true!

2011-12-15T06:00:00.010-06:00

Our Christmas production, A Charlie Brown Christmas, was a huge success, not in that we did a good job, but in the fact that over 4800 people had the opportunity to accept Christ. And, 80 made it official. That puts everything in perspective. All the late hours, hard work, and stress were worth it, knowing that those people now have a relationship with Christ.

As you know, I played Lucy. She was a great character to play. It was quite fun!

My favorite part of the entire production was meeting kids afterwards. I got so many hugs from precious little girls (and some boys). It was so sweet!

Until ...

The most (ahem) precious little girl told me this after seeing me close-up:

"Ha! They made you look young on the stage."

Why, yes, "they" did, Little Miss Smarty-Pants!

My expression after hearing this statement was probably somewhat like this.

(This pic cracks me up.)

What a great weekend!

Here's a few more pics:

To watch the production, you can go here.

I'm trading in my dancing shoes.

2011-12-12T06:00:00.001-06:00

I prefer these babies.

I finally have a chance to relax and put them on. I have been running (and dancing) like a crazy person for a few months now. I'm definitely beyond ready for a break. Thank you Lord, that I'm finally getting it.

Here's where I wore my dancing shoes first.

(These pics are from "That '70s Disco" Christmas Party for the ladies of our church ... almost 330 in attendance. It was a fantastic and groovy night!)

Beau and me singing "Don't Go Breakin' My Heart."

Even our pastor got involved. Here he is singing "Play that Funky Music."

'70s Disco Dancers were awesome!

Laverne & Shirley were hilarious and lead some great games.

Who says you can't worship the Lord in disco clothes? We did.

The fabulous, DeLynn Rizzo, shared an encouraging message. I just love her.

My girls (minus a few ...)

The disco floor was opened and everyone learned "The Hustle." Fun!

As far my second pair of dancing shoes ... they were a pair of black and white oxfords that I got to take off for good yesterday.

I got to play Lucy in our annual Christmas production, "A Charlie Brown Christmas." It was lots or hard work but it paid off with over 4800 in attendance this past weekend and even better, 80 salvations! That makes it all worth it!

More Charlie Brown pics to come.

Now, I'm going to eat chocolate.

How to Receive a Compliment

2011-12-10T11:00:00.003-06:00

Most of us find it hard to receive a compliment. I often struggle with it, but am training myself to receive it with grace. I typically grit my teeth and try to avoid brushing the compliment away with an excuse of why I'm not what the compliment-offerer says I am. I try to offer no excuse. I force a smile and say "thank you," even though inside I whole-heartedly disagree.

I'm working on it, people. And, I know most women are just like me in this area.

Through time, we've learned that this problem, combined with a bit of self-esteem issues.

But, I've found the greatest tutorial on how to receive a compliment from my friend, Jenny from Jenny on the Spot.

I'm so doing this from now on.

You should too. It's time we grab hold of that compliment and own it!

Wait ... I have a blog?

2011-12-05T06:00:00.002-06:00

Right, I do.

Life has been a little hectic, and I'm sure I'll have stuff to share after the madness is over. Hopefully I'll have some good pictures of this past weekends' '70s Disco Party, which was a blast, and included a great word from DeLynn Rizzo.

I feel like every day has been a pattern of working early and continue working late into the evening. I haven't had much time for anything. My family's been living off of fast food and mac 'n cheese. Yuck. La Petite Belle even had to wear a dirty shirt to school last Thursday because I had forgotten to wash. Gross. I threatened her about not taking her sweatshirt off. But, the worst came when I forgot to pick up K Belle and her friend Friday after school because I was knee-deep in disco party preparations.

Don't worry. They were picked up.

But, it's really been one thing after another. And, now we're onto Christmas production.

It is really going to be a great production and I hope to have video & pictures once it's all over. The production is A Charlie Brown Christmas. And, guess who's Lucy? Yep. Me.

Her lines are quite extensive. I've been working on memorizing and more memorizing.

The funny thing is that as I look more and more into Lucy's character, I notice that we are somewhat alike.

She's a little bossy. I can be a little bossy.

(Even though I think bossy people are simply misunderstood. Bossy is not necessarily a bad thing.)

She knows what she wants. I know what I want.

She has a problem with being a control freak. I can be a control freak.

She's a Type-A personality. I'm a Type-A personality.

She doesn't mince words. I don't mince words.

She's honest. I'm honest.

She likes to help people. I like to help people.

She can be misunderstood. I am often misunderstood.

Playing Lucy has become quite fun. She's a hoot! I hope I can do her justice with my limited acting skills.

Agreed, Lucy. Agreed.

If you're local and want to come to this fantastic production, you can. More info at www.mycrossroads.org.

The Scariest Ride at Disney World

2011-11-29T06:00:00.003-06:00

Our trip to Disney World was fun and flew by quickly. You know those vacations where you're up at the crack of dawn and in bed way past your bedtime? That was this vacation. I'm trying to recuperate, but with everything awaiting me at home, it doesn't look like that's going to happen any time soon.

The park wasn't very crowded the beginning of the week, but crowds grew as we got closer to Thanksgiving. We spent Thanksgiving day with my parents and an aunt & uncle, eating at a resort, and then at Epcot and Downtown Disney. It was a pretty great day!

We rode most of the rides throughout the week. We had already made a family vow that we would not be riding Tower of Terror again due to the traumatization of the last time we rode it. Never again. La Petite Belle did chicken out a minute before she was to step foot on Rock 'n Roller Coaster, even though she had ridden it before.

However, the most terrifying ride for us was the bus ride back to our resort the evening before Thanksgiving.

We sat on the bus, just like everyone else, minding our own business. People started to get off at their stops and the crowd on the bus got lighter and lighter. There was a particular couple toward the middle of the bus who pretty much made out the entire drive. It was quite disturbing seeing the guy nibble on the girl's ear. K Belle was disgusted and kept commenting to me about it. I told her to just ignore them and look the other way. No problem. We would be off soon.

Well ... There was only one other family on the bus with us besides make-out couple and their relatives loud-obnoxious couple who made their appearance prior to our departure. The guy from the loud-obnoxious couple came up from the back of the box and started making obscene gestures to the other couple, cursing, and saying (loudly) inappropriate things.

My Beau can tolerate a lot, but I had a feeling a storm was brewin'.

And, it was.

Beau looked at the guy (as the other decent family exited the bus) and said: "Hey man, I have young daughters here."

Loud-obnoxious Guy: "And?"

Beau: "And what you're doing is inappropriate and I don't appreciate it."

Loud-obnoxious Guy: "That's life. I got daughters too."

Beau: : "One day it'll make sense to you."

Loud-obnoxious Guy began to say a bunch of other stuff that I just ignored, but it included more cursing, singing inappropriate songs loudly, and mocking us.

We still had another stop before our stop and, of course, they were at our stop.

We just sat there. The bus driver did nothing. He was approximately 85-years-old, so not sure what he could've done. I tried to keep the girls distracted from them. K Belle asked if we could just get off. She was scared.

These guys were pretty rough. I thought Disney World didn't allow riff-raff. I felt like I was at Six Flags.

I was hoping they wouldn't follow us or see where our room was. They were definitely ready for a fight and actually so was Beau. His words were: "I hope he comes up to me and says something so I can rip his head off." Um ... I'm sure that's what Jesus would do.

We got off the bus and went the opposite direction. Once we got back to our room, K Belle promptly locked all the doors.

We obviously survived through the night and they didn't come after us.

But, my question to you is: Would you or would you not say something to some hooligan who starts to speak obscenities or inappropriate talk in front of your children?

Beau did. I don't think I would have said something if he wouldn't have been there for fear of the guy and his friends.

Thank God for my husband. We never have to have any fear that he will not protect us. I know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that he would fight someone to the death if they tried to harm me or the girls. I love that.

Well that went well.

2011-11-18T06:15:00.001-06:00

I got a whole four comments from ladies wanting Roma's new children's DVDs. Wow. I think I've failed that angel.

Anyhoo ... you ladies get the DVDs of course. I will be contacting you for your addresses. Yay for you!

On a totally different note ... ummm ... I'm going to Disney.

So, I'm frantically cleaning house and packing right now. The car needs to be inspected, the dog needs to be groomed, and all the clothes need to be washed. Whew. I'm tired just thinking about everything that needs to be done.

I'm equally tired thinking about the 12-hour drive starting at 6:00 a.m. tomorrow. We won't even talk about the same 12 hours back.

But, I will be so happy once I see this little guy.

Disney World is pretty much the most magical place in the world. I literally had tears in my eyes the first time I saw Mickey coming down the street in the Main Street parade.

This will be our third time going to Disney. Each trip has been different because our girls have been various ages each time. This time we take a teenager and an 11-year-old. I can't wait to see the fun that this trip holds. We have already made a pact that there will be no riding of "The Tower of Terror" because of our near-death experiences last time. But, roller coasters ... beware.

This is also the 40th anniversary of Disney World. In fact, Disney World and I have the same birthday. Think I could get some extra-special perks because of that? Maybe. I will definitely try.

Because I will be hobnobbing with Pooh Bear and Prince Charming, I will not be blogging next week. I hope to have some good stories for you the week after.

Have a great Thanksgiving week with your families!

Four New "Little Angels" DVD Set Giveaways & My Interview with Roma (We're pretty much on a first-name basis now.)

2011-11-15T06:00:00.004-06:00

OK. So, you remember when I posted that I was going to talk to Roma Downey?

Well, I did.

She was simply precious. And, I'm excited to tell you about her new children's DVD series and be able to offer four giveaways. Each giveaway includes two DVDs in the "Little Angels" series.

Each DVD teaches, not only a preschool learning concept, but life lessons through Bible stories.
This one ... ABC's ...

And, this one about animals.

I asked her a couple of questions.
What was your inspiration for this new DVD series and why did you want to get into this field?

Over the last few years, I had written a couple of children's books, so it's an area of the market that I've always had great affection for. I've raised three children myself and this idea had been growing inside of me probably since Touched by an Angel came off the air. It's no secret that I have a great love and affection for angels. I played one for almost ten years. I love kids and I love God. So to be able to combine what I do with what I love has been very, very exciting.

When I was a child growing up in Ireland, one of the prayers my parents taught and shared with me was a short little prayer:
God in heaven, my Savior dear, watch over my children and draw them near.
Send your little angels to be at their side, to light and to guard, to love and to guide.

And, that little prayer became one of the central inspirations for the whole series.

The stories on the DVD take place in the nursery of twins, Alex and Zoe. The action happens when the mother, voiced by Roma herself, is out of the room. There are eight angel characters painted on a mural in the nursery. These little angels come to life and connect with the twins, teaching them practical life skills and also introduce them to spiritual principles, where the twins get to meet and interact with Bible characters. Issues that the twins face are cooperation, obedience, being thankful, being helpful, forgiveness, and sibling rivalry.

One of the things I really appreciated on your DVDs was the fact that you took a moment to directly talk to moms in a real practical way. Is this going to be on all the DVDs?

I recorded a section called "Little Life Lessons with Roma" and I thought it would be a good chance for me to be directly speaking to moms and dad with ways to teach their children the lessons that were touched upon in that particular DVD and offer little parenting tips on how to tackle certain situations. You should learn to regard everything that happens with your children less as a challenge, and more as a teachable moment and opportunities for growth.

I really did enjoy the DVDs and wish I would have had them as another option to VeggieTales, which are also phenomenal as you may know, when my girls were little.

You can also read here about MOPS giving "Little Angels" it's recommendation.

Here's a sneak peek:

I'm pumped about being able to offer 4 sets of the "Little Angels" series to 4 lucky readers. All you have to do is a leave a comment telling me who you're going to give these DVDs to and add your email so that I can contact you.

I will choose a winner on Thursday evening and post who the winner is on Friday morning.

Feel free to share this with all your mom friends. Get them to come on over and enter!

This guy's good.

2011-11-09T06:00:00.006-06:00

Yeah, he is.

Check out these photos Chris Deville took for an upcoming conference brochure.

Yep. He makes me look good.

You can see even more great pictures on his website - www.chris-deville.com.