Friday, February 29, 2008

Bible Study Goods

I have so waited for this moment to sit down and tell you all how wonderful bible study has been this semester. It has been nothing short of amazing. Every week has been so filled with such wonderful truths that I hold onto throughout the weeks. I love it.

I have to be honest and say that I have not kept up with the homework. Barely even started it. I had every intention of doing it, but I knew the moment I started, that this was "not my season" as someone put it. I felt so discouraged at first that I couldn't get it done, I felt like a slacker, but I now know and understand that it is OK. I know it sounds like such a cop out, but this semester, from the start, was insanely crazy and I knew that if I tried to do it, I would be doing it "just to do it," and not putting my heart into it. That's the last thing I want, especially with Breaking Free. Not completing the homework, though, was not going to keep me from going every week. It is still so good for me, and so appropriate at this time. I do go back and review everything we talked about, go over verses, and re-read every note I jotted down. Good stuff, folks.

And, do I need to even mention the joy I get from seeing my beloved Houston blogging girls there? Oh, it's a joyful time. I love when Beth starts talking about the blog because I feel so "in". I want to jump up and down and yell I know them, I know them!!!! Sometimes I sit on my hands to prevent this exact scenario. My mom can attest to this. I only talk about the blog enough that she too knows all about y'all more than she probably cares to know. And after Tuesday nights, I reiterate to her specifically what Beth was talking about. I'm sure she loves it. Yes, she talks about y'all! :)

Anyway, this past Tuesday was exceptional. Everything I needed to hear and more. Things were clarified in my mind that I am now praising the Lord for. He is so sweet to speak straight to my heart!

This week was specifically about obedience to God. "Trading the yoke of slavery for the yoke of liberty." Something that is so hard, yet so vital in our "breaking free" process. (Are you a "slave to sin...or to obedience?" Rom. 6:16) It was about the burdens and yoke that we put on ourselves, versus the yoke he has for us. Oh, the difference, it is huge. Specifically, the burdens and circumstances we choose to battle that He did not intend us to carry. Does that make sense? If we would just believe and trust that His "yolk is easy and His burden light" (Matthew 11:30) we would choose to carry the yoke He has for us. Therefore, giving us rest. Rest. Such a sweet word and something I had just blogged about. This semester so far has been crazy, and "rest" has so been out of the question. But, how can I have clarity on situations like jobs, when I have had no rest. He is saying "come to me and I'll give you rest." (Matthew 11:28) I've barely even made it that far. How is it that life always seems to get in the way before we ever make it to Him, when really, He is where we need to be and go to first.

Knowing that I am graduating in 2 months (YEA!!) has been so exciting, yet stressful because I know finding a job is next. As exciting as this is, it can be pretty stressful. My situation is a little different than I thought it would ever be in that I have a few options to choose from. (This is something I will expand on at a later and more appropriate time.) I have been praying my little heart out and getting/receiving advice from different people. The problem is that people tend to have different ideas and opinions about the situation, so it makes it hard. I know in the end it is between me and God, but still, my heart is torn and I have needed some clarity. I know I might not get the exact clarity I want, but I know that in following God, I will be at peace with either decision I make. All of that to say, I have been carrying some unnecessary burdens, thus getting little rest.

Tuesday night I received some wisdom and some clarity that I can't help but share. If may not be as applicable to you right now, but at this point in my life it spoke to me loud and clear and I am so thankful. Some points that so stood out to me, and I am quoting Beth Moore are:

- The longer we stay immature in the faith, the more we feel like God's commands are just commands, therefore we aren't enjoying Him.

- It's not Jesus wearing us out!

- His self-existent "I AM" keeps us from being little "I Am's" -Amen!

- A need does not constitute a call.

- In referring to options: Which is good and which is better. (This was HUGE for me!)

- Where is He saying "Come to me" and he'll give me rest.

- Am I worn out because of what I need people to think?

- Our souls are restless till we find rest in THEE!

- Maybe I won't have to figure everything out, I just need to REST it.

The last 2 points and quotes I'll share with you, are the last points she shared with us. They were so appropriate and fit right in with the lesson being taught. She was explaining that in wearing his yoke we share a yoke with someone who is Gentle, which in greek means kind, and someone who is humble giving us this quote:

"His path of humbe service is the pattern for us to follow. So much of our fatigue and burdensome toil stems from pride. If we are successful, our egos are inflated and we try for more. If we falter, the rejection of other and our self-condemnation weigh us down in guilt and self-doubt. It is much more freeing to take Christ's attitude of serving others" -Life Application Bible Commentary (From Wordsearch7)

Then in explaining rest and how "we can take Christ's kind of rest to work" she left us with this quote, that I'll leave with y'all:

"Christ's 'rest' is not a 'rest' from work, but in work, 'not the rest of inactivity bu of the harmonious working of all the faculties and affections, of will, heart, imagination, conscience, because each has found in God the ideal sphere for its satisfaction and development." - J. Patick, Hastings Bible Dictionary

Amen & Amen! Much love to all of you!

Monday, February 25, 2008

Wonder Woman

Before you go thinking that I think I am Wonder Woman, think again...that is SO far from the truth. But, I do have to say, that as of right now, at 8:07 p.m. I have a HUGE burden lifted off my shoulders. Huge. I feel like Wonder Woman.

I told myself I would take a break from blogging/facebook/email this past week so I could focus on my project/paper that was due today, and that I did. Y'all, that is some self-control. I think it was the spirit in me spurring me on to my goal...I didn't even feel like getting on the computer! Praise the Lord! I too, will have you know that I am the world's worst procrastinator. Seriously, the worst. But this project was not one that could wait. It was so much that it took more than "just one night!" It felt good not waiting till the very last minute. Now yes, I did check my email and check in every now and then, but I tried my hardest to stay away.

After all of that "staying away" I feel such pleasure blogging! Joy!

This past week/weekend was absolutely nothing but pure craziness. And that, my friends, is no lie. No lie.

Let me lay it out for you.

Monday: Praise the Lord for President's Day. School was out so I had a WHOLE day to focus solely on the Project.

Tuesday: Went to school, headed home to do a few school things, then went to bible study. (Of all the weeks this is when I should have skipped bible study, but I just couldn't bring myself to do it, and I'm so glad I didn't!)

Wednesday: Went to school, came home, worked on project, then worked on my lesson/lesson plan for the next day that I was getting observed on.

Thursday: Went to school, got observed (and all was well), came home and worked on my project till an ungodly hour.

Friday: Worked on my project all day. Literally. But, I have to brag on my sweet Mom. You see, I work better AWAY from the computer. Yes, this paper required much of the computer, but, I am one to write everything out first, then type it up. It just helps me. Well, after I would write one section, my mom typed it for me. Do you know how much time this saved me? Oh my gosh. She's amazing. Thank you, Mom. :) That night, was the start of our high school retreat at church, of course, before I had all this going on, I had signed up to be a leader. Okay, I can do it. So, I worked on the project till about 4:00 straight, took a shower (it was MUCH needed!), packed, then headed to the retreat around 5:30. The rest of that night is history. A house full of Senior Girls. You can only imagine the JOY!

Saturday: Woke up early, of course after a late night of giggling and being ridiculous, did a lesson with the girls, then drove my sweet lil' self up to Huntsville, yes, Huntsville, to take my exit test to be a certified teacher. After the LONG 110 question test, I drove back to Houston to continue in the JOY of my beloved seniors. That was a fabulous evening, and once again, a LATE one.

Sunday: After 4 short hours of sleep, I woke up, did the morning routine, then we all headed to the morning/last session of the retreat. I promise a post about that will come later...when I can breath and even process it. After the retreat concluded, I ate nothing else but Mexican food, then headed home for a quick nap, then started working on my project to get it done, so I could yet again, drive to Huntsville to turn it in this morning at 8 a.m. I honest to goodness had done all of the writing portion and only had my charts, graphs and some tweaking to do. I didn't plan on it taking that long. Well, 7 hours and 45 pages later, at 1:00 in the morning, I finally climbed in bed. Once again, I have to brag, my Dad knows Microsoft Excell FAR better than I do. He helped me tremendously making things a ton easier. So, thank you Dad! Aern't my parent's fabulous?

Mentally, physically, and emotionally exhausted. I cratered. I had planned on driving to Huntsville that night, but my plan quickly changed when I realized what time it was.

Monday: Not that I have to say it, but after 5 hours of sleep, I woke up at 5:50, and headed to Huntsville this morning at 6:15 to turn my paper in by 8:00. Y'all, seriously, have you ever been driving that early?! There are SO MANY people on the road! Where are they all going?! I was just baffled. I mean, do they really go to work that early? I must be so naive. I made it to Huntsville at 7:25 a.m., huge relief number one. I then walked in the doors upon opening time, 7:30 a.m., walked straight to the sweet lady at the table, and with great joy and no people lines, handed in the beloved project. HUGE relief number two. It was out of my hands. I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart!!! Now granted, they made us all stay ALL day to listen to 3 speakers. From 8:30 - 3:30 all I could do was think about my bed and how wonderful it would be tonight. And wonderful it will be. I also texted I think almost EVERY person in my phone, letting them know they no longer had to hear about the TWS because it was DONE! Around 4:00 I headed home, made it home, and then went for a walk/run. Huge relief number three.

Y'all, that dreadful week is over. I have never been more relieved in my life. Seriously. Having this project done free's me up to do so many things. And free's my anxious mind up. I am so thankful. Now, I just have to wait 2 weeks for my score. Would you please pray I get a 2 or a 3 on this thing? That's all I need. (It's an odd scoring guide!)

I know I sound like a crazy busy person who does nothing but run around like a chicken with my head cut off. Or that I sound like I like to sign up for everything that is happening in the same weeked. I really don't. All of this stuff was registered for at different times, but all happen to land on the same weekend. I promise my life is more calm than this. This just happens to be a crazy semester, I guess they all really are. I really do get time to rest. I promise.

Actually, that time to rest sounds very appropriate right now. I promised myself I'd be in bed BEFORE 10:00 tonight. I keep my promises!

Much love to all of you and thanks for listening to my crazy busy nonsense, I hope it get's better very soon!

Sunday, February 17, 2008

Sunday = New Friends

I know this is the second post tonight, but really, it's probably my last until next Monday, my deadline. I have a huge project due then and have GOT to focus on it. Sometimes focusing means not worring about blogging, or facebook, or email, or whatever else occupies my precious time. And seriously, by not checking my email every minute or so (exaggerating, but you get the point) the world won't stop. Just because I don't respond to your email or comment in 5 minutes, doesn't mean you'll give up on me. Seriously. The world does not need me every hour of everyday. Right now, Sam Houston needs me to finish this paper so I can graduate. And graduate I will. Praise the Good Lord!

What I really wanted to share with you is some exciting new friends that I got to meet today. It was a double whammy kinda day.

This morning I headed over to Houston First Baptist for church. Whenever I get the chance I like to go there. I love it there. Not only is it a wonderful church, but there are people my age there, which makes it all the better. Don't get me wrong, I love my beloved church, Cypress Bible Church, love it, but sometimes I just need someone in their young 20's, like me, to talk to! And know that they too are in the "next phase of life!"

Anyway, first I went to the Woman's Sunday School class where I got to meet sweet Tammie. And y'all, is she ever so sweet. So gentle and just beautiful. Just from my short time talking with her you can tell that she loves the Lord like no other. It was so encouraging, and so refreshing! She was simply a delight. Tammie, it was so good to finally meet you. I can't wait to meet again. Not only was she a delight to meet, but every other lady in that class was so welcoming. I felt so comfortable. And, a great word was brought to us about friendships! That's a whole other post, but it was so timely! Friendships are such a beautiful thing and something I so cherish. My friends mean the world to me!

After Sunday school I headed to "big church!" I was so excited because I love Greg Matte. He too can bring the word. Well, I got in there, got situated, and then worship started. At first I couldn't tell who it was. I told my friend Megan that I thought it was Travis Cottrell, but wasn't sure. (We were up top!) Much to my surprise, it was! After the first song he introduced himself and I was just thrilled. He did a great job of leading us in worship and of course sang my favorite, In Christ Alone. Oh, my heart!

I couldn't resist after church to go meet him, because after all, I do comment on his blog like everyday. I did go meet him and introduced myself as the Lindsee with two e's. Yup, that's how I distinguish myself. I told him I had to come introduce myself and he was so glad I did. I was surprised that he recongnized me! Too fun! We talked for a bit and then went our separate ways. He was just a pleasure to meet and so very sweet! So, Travis, it was so nice meeting you. I'm so glad I had the guts to actually hang around and meet you! Know that your ministry means so much to me! Can't wait to see you again, either, in San Antonio, if not before! And by the way, worship was fabulous this morning. The gift God has given you is being used in HUGE ways for His glory!

Well, folks, on a normal Sunday night I would be long asleep, but PTL we don't have school tomorrow! My day off and I have SOOOO much to do. Seriously, if you think of me, would you pray that this week isn't as stressful as I think it will be? Not only do I have the huge project due, but I am also getting observed this week, have a highschool retreat this weekend, and am also taking an exit test! Oh my. I'm a bit overwhelmed thinking about it.

On that note, I better head to bed so I don't get sick on top of all of this! Oh, that would be the icing on the cake!

Much love,

Mr. and Mrs. Williams

I am proud to introduce to you Mr. and Mrs. Adam Williams. Emily and Adam finally tied the knot and after their honeymoon in the mountins, will reside in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Does anyone stay in Houston after they get married?! I'm beginning to think the answer to that question is no! Wherever they are, though, I am just delighted for them to start their new life together!

Emiily, known for her absolutely amazing smile, was undeniabely one of the most beautiful brides I have seen. She lit up the room that night like no one else. Simply breathtaking, everything from her dress, to her make-up, to her amazing hair! And she was by far the happiest girl on the planet that night. And rightfully so! I don't think her smile left her face once. It was precious!

I know the Lord has amazing plans for these two and I can't wait to see whats in store. They love the Lord dearly and it shines in everything they do! They are so passionate about people knowing Jesus Christ as their personal savior and falling in love with him. This was so clear in their ceremony.

Enjoy some pictures I've posted for you! My camera was acting weird so my pictures are a little strange, but, enjoy the happy couple and Emily's gorgeous smile!

Mr. and Mrs. Adam Williams (This is how they kissed in the ceremony, he tipped her! Precious!)



Can I say happy girl?!


Yes, ma'am I can! She's beautiful!


Their first dance!


Mom and Dad on the dance floor!


My sweet Claire and I enjoying our evening! :)

Saturday, February 16, 2008

L.O.V.E

Happy "Late" Valentines Day, my sweet friends!

I hope your L.O.V.E day was just fabulous. Mine was interesting, but great.

I spent the first half of the day with my beloved 3rd graders. Oh, the joy. Y'all, they LOVED their pencils. Loved them. I'm not kidding when I say one of them yelled "YES, a new pencil with a new eraser!" I know them so well. I got more gifts than I have probably my whole life. I came home with a Target bag full and even a flower that one of the sweet girls brought me. Melts my heart!

Then, that night I spent with my little (senior in highschool) brother. He and 3 of his buds were going to the Stephen Curtis Chapman concert that night at Champions Forest Baptist and convinced me to tag along. This whole week I had thought about going, but didn't know who I would go with. Kev, and 3 other teenage boys were the last people I thought I attend with, but alas, we had a blast. Yes, I did feel like a mother. I even drove my mothers Yukon XL which made me feel even more like a mother, and their chaperone. Especially when they all climbed in the back! Someone give me a break, please! The concert started at 7:30 and we left at 10:30 and y'all, the concert was STILL going on. I'm sure it ended pretty soon after we left, but boy, Stephen was all about singing longer. I just wished we didn't have to get up so early the next morning, or we all would have stayed to the end. He was great, though. Oldie, but GOODIE! :) (And he definitely played his new hit "Cinderella" which I am sure didn't leave one dry eye in the crowd. So sweet!)

So, I say interesting because it was spent with 3rd graders of all sorts, then with some silly, fun lovin', higschool boys. Random? I think so. Fun? You bet.

Can I share my epiphony with y'all? You see, a lot of (single) people hate Valentines Day. I, on the other hand, like it. I mean I am not just gaga over it, but I really don't mind it. I really don't dwell on my singleness, or the fact that I've never had a valentine. I dwell on the fact the Jesus Christ loves me more than any man ever will. Even my dad, and I know he loves me like no other! I dwell on the fact that one day I will have a valentine, and on that day, I will spoil him like no other. I will love him like no other. Hug him like no other. And serve him like no other. I can't wait. But until then, I have a lot of other things I can be doing. Like serving at my church. Having lots of girls night. Go visit my girls all over the grand USA, or world for that matter. And focus all (or try to) of my attention of the Lord. He DESERVES my attention and love. Then, when the Lord is ready, when I am ready, and when my future husband is ready, I know without a shadow of a doubt that the Lord won't leave me hangin'! His plan is perfect. As is His timing. We serve a FAITHFUL God, and He who promises is faithful.

I'll have you know that I am a complete romantic. I fall for ANY romantic movie. I am a chick flick lover at heart. They never bore me. One thing that has SO stuck out to me in ALL of these movies is of course yes, the precious story, but, the fact that in ALL these movies the guy persues the girl. If he wants her, he goes after her.

I think this is absolutely, hands down, the most precious thing. I think I love chick flicks so much because I love this concept. That's how it's supposed to be. I want to be pursued. I want that romantic story in my life that I did nothing, and he did everything. (Yes, I know it takes two to tango, but you get the point!) That he wanted me that much that he pursed me with all he had. Love it. Absolutley love it. Just like the Lord pursues us. Y'all HE pursues us. Just like I learned the other night at bible study, WE FILL HIM UP! He is satisfied by us. Oh, I love it.

Join me in being satisfied and content with the one who loves us more than anybody. The One who deserves our love. HE IS! And He say's "I AM" What is His I AM to you?! Because whatever you lack, whatever you need, whatever you're missing, whatever you're wanting HE IS to you. Let HIM be you I AM! You fill in the blank.

In the meantime, I'll keep praying for my future beloved...

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

The Whirlwind Week

Whew, has it been a whirlwind of a week.

Like really, is tomorrow already Valentine's Day?! I am actually excited because I just returned from Target with some precious valentine's for my 3rd graders. They have surely stolen my heart. Along with the card and candy, I picked up the boys some "sports" pencils and the girls some "hearts" pencils. Do you know the excitement that will well in their little hearts upon the discovery of these pencils?! Oh y'all, they KNOW the joy of a new pencil. A new pencil equals not only the fact that they get to sharpen it, but it means a new eraser. Oh my gosh.

This past week I have now driven to and from Huntsville twice. What joy! Saturday was my first time back there since I officially don't live there anymore. Kinda wierd, but I got over that fairly quickly. I went because my sorority, Sigma Phi Lambda, was celebrating 20 years. Each school had their own gathering. I went for a short time, but had fun seeing some of the older girls. After that, I went with my (wedding) friend to see 27 Dresses for the second time. Have you seen it? If not, go...now. Y'all, it's simply precious. The minute it comes out you know without a shadow of a doubt that I will be a proud owner!



And seriously, y'all, James Marsden is my new favorite. Can I say absolutely adorable. Yes, I can. :)



Last Sunday, I also got to go back to UHBC. So good. I love it. It just so happened that it was a sermon on marriage. Okay, so I'm not getting married anytime soon, don't even have a prospect, but can I tell you that what I learned was just fabulous. Our pastor taught about love and respect. Yes, there is a book on this, but, he didn't even mention the book. Let me enlighten you with my now wisdom on marriage:

Husbands Need:
1) Significance over Validation
2) Companion over Coach (They need you to be there WITH them. Supporting them. They DON'T need you coaching them, however.)
3) Respect over Affection (Wow.)

Wive's Need:
1) Certainty over Security (That you are absolutely certain you love us!)
2) Value over Conquest (That you think she's worth it. That she's not "less than." That you ADORE her!)
3) Incorporation over Inclusion (That WE are apart of everything YOU are. That we see transperancy!)

Nope. Not married. But I thought it was a pretty good word, and since most of my blogging friends are married, I thought I'd share the wealth! I really can't wait to live and be this to my husband one day!

Okay, enough of that. After church I had a lovely lunch outside at Quiznos. Yum. And, it was gorgeous weather. I just can't get enough of it.

Monday was back to school day. Joy! No, it was just fine. Since I am completely teaching now, the day FLIES by! I love it.

Tuesday I only went half day to school because we had a lunch meeting with our University Supervisor at The Egg & I. It was so yummy and I loved leaving there and NOT having to go back to school for the day. Last night, of course, we headed to Beth Moore, which was fabulous. Y'all, I wish I could re-cap every night for y'all. I am learning SO much and have absolutely loved every night. It's so fun too, this semester, because I've gotten to see Jackie, Nancy and Debra and have loved those weekly hugs. Those are some fabulous ladies. After bible study last night I headed straight to Huntsville, again, because we had to be at a seminar all day today there. Upon my arrival I was exhausted, but then proceeded to stay up later than I have ALL semester chatting and catching up with my girls. Fun times.

Today once the seminar was over I hopped in the car, stopped at the beloved Starbucks to get a FRAPPICINO (the first one all year, I felt the need for cold coffee, not hot) then drove my lovely self home sipping on this, and eating a piece of pumpkin loaf. :)



Here is my FAVORITE part of my day. If you have not heard of Steve and Berry's, well, you really need to listen up. It is an amazing store with CHEAP, CHEAP clothes all desinged by Sarah Jessica Parker. So cute. I first discovered it in College Station, but now, have one close to my house. I normally don't stop by unless I take a certain road home from Huntsville. Well, I decided to take Louetta today, so felt it appropriate to stop by this wonderful store. Y'all. I have been eyeing this one particular jacket all season. Last time I went there they had ONE jacket and it was a small. Sad day. Not my size. But today, as I walked in, there was a whole RACK of these jackets, and they had my size. Seriously, I almost fainted.

You know I hopped right on that and purchased it immediately. And I'll have you know that I broke the bank spending a whopping $8.98 on it. No lie, y'all. NINE stinkin' dollars. I picked up the phone and called my mother promptly.

Cute, huh? It is my valentine's present to myself. And also my outfit for school tomorrow. I also bought another jacket for the same price, but unfortunately, can't find the picture. Belive me, though, it too is fabulous.

Well folks, I'm glad to know you've made it through this whirlwind post. It's quite random!

Much LOVE to all of you out there, even if we've never met! :)

Have a thrilling Thursday,

P.S. Please forgive my spelling. We all know spell check is having issues!

Thursday, February 7, 2008

What Time Is It?

Oh. My. Gosh.

I have NEVER in all my long 22 years of living have ever done such a thing. Let me tell you what happened this morning.

So, my beloved alarm is set for 5:45 every day. Now granted, I normally snooze it till about 5:55 and then I'm up and about getting ready for the oh-so-exciting day! (Insert sarcasm as this is SO hard everyday. But, I'm getting used to it!)

Today was a little different, though. I jolted out of bed at which my clock said 6:20. I went into automatic frenzy mode knowing that both Kevyn and I were late now. Normally right after my shower, he hops in. So, I immediately hopped out of bed and was in the shower in seconds flat. But, y'all was I ever so tired. I'm not kidding when I tell you that my legs were shaking and I could barely keep my eyes open. It was the strangest feeling. Now yes, normally I am sleepy for like the first 10 minutes of my shower, but I had never been THAT sleepy.

All I kept thinking was "I am never gonna make it today if I'm this tired!" My stomach even started to feel a little funny so then I got even more flittered thinking I was getting sick. Oh no. So I finished my (OCD) shower (it's the same every morning), got out, dried myslef off, and then started the (OCD) bathroom routine. This is when things started to get suspicious. If ever I am running late I first normally hear Kev's alarm, and then he comes knocking telling me to hurry. Neither of those were happening. I figured I would just hurry, then go wake him up telling him we were both late!

Right before I blow dryed my hair, I figured I should get him up and go do that in my room so he could shower! Not a problem. So I walk out of the bathroom, head to his room to which all I see is the glowing red lights on the clock stating that it was 2:35. Ummmmm...okay. I'm confused now. What time is it? His clock has GOT to be way off. So I go to my room, look at my clock which says 2:50 (mine is 15 minutes fast!). Okay, really confused now. I could have sworn my clock said 6:20 when I woke up. I know, check the cell phone, that time is ALWAYS right. And to my dismay it says 2:38. Okay folks, I get it now, it is NOT 6:20, it is definitely 2:38 A.M!!!!!!!!!! Do you realize that I am completely showered?!!

First I was spittin' mad. Did I really just get up at 2:00 in the morning and take a shower?!?!?!!! Then, all I could think was, "YES!! I've got 4 more hours to sleep and I am completely showered!!!" Thank you, Jesus.

My stomach ache went away. My legs stopped shaking. My body knew where it was headed.

I quickly dressed in my pajamas...again. Combed my hair. Slipped back in my ever so comfy and warm bed and fell fast asleep until my REAL alarm went off.

I have told this story numerous amounts of times today, each time laughing my head off. Y'all, I took a shower at 2:30 in the morning. I've never been a sleep walker so this is so completely foriegn to me. My only explanation for this wild behavior is that I'm either A) stressed and not sleeping well (which could very well be) or B) I had a crazy dream that awoke me suddenly thinking it was time to get up, so I did. I'll choose answer B.

I'll sleep wonderful tonight...as I am exhausted right now!

So, as I used to say back in the day...

Goodnight,
Sleeptight,
Don't let the bed bugs bite!

Monday, February 4, 2008

A Proud Sister

*Update: Kevyn's solo video will not upload right now! So, enjoy the others and I will try that again later!

This past weekend my brother was in Godspell at his (my old) highschool! Y'all, can you believe that I went all 4 times!! It was fabulous. It's his senior year and when he heard they were performing this show this year he hopped right on it. He LOVES Godspell. So needless to say, he was ecstatic. We are a very musical family, but have never participated in such theatrical things, so for him to do this was just too fun! He had a wonderful time during ALL of it and now can't stop talking about it. He also can't stop talking about the fact that he wishes he would have done this all 4 years! Too bad, so sad. You live and learn!

Anyway, he played himself, Kevyn. Everyone's character is their own name except for Jesus and John the Baptist/Judas! The whole cast and crew did a FABULOUS job pulling it all off. We were highly entertained every night!

I've attatched a few pics (I never really pulled out my camera until the last show!!! How silly am I?!) and a few videos. Just remember when watching the videos that this was the LAST performance so everyone was a little worn out, and Kev started loosing his voice! (I say that for his sake because every time he watches the video he thinks he sounds horrible. I beg to differ!)

I got his whole song (We Beseech Thee) and a few snipits of some other ones. My digital camera can only take so much video.

I am such a proud sister! My little brother did a wonderful job. We love him so very much!


This video is On The Willows! It was a duet he did. Unfortunately, I was only able to record about 20 seconds of this one. But, it is a fabulous song. One where everyone is saying their goodbyes the Jesus. So beautiful! The boys did wonderful.


This last one is the finale as they are carrying out Jesus. Personally, I love this whole song! But once again, I was only able to film about 10 seconds of this! Enjoy the shortness!

And that, my friends, is my precious little brother in his first broadway show. His first, and most likely his last!

Have a wonderful day! Mine will be very uneventful as my students are taking a benchmark test to get ready for the TAKS test! Oh joy! :)

Saturday, February 2, 2008

Opportunity Of A Lifetime

Four years ago, yesterday (Feb. 1), I had the amazing privilege, along with Jen and some alumni from our old choir, Houston Children's Chorus, to sing at the Superbowl with Josh Groban when it was in Houston. Simply amazing. And yes, the opportunity of a lifetime.

I still remember EVERY single detail from all the many rehearsals, to waiting to walk on to the field right before we sang, then standing there singing and being completely overwhelmed at the number of people in Reliant Stadium. I still get butterflies in my stomach thinking about it.

What was even greater, other than singing You Raise Me Up with Josh Groban (one of my absolute favorites!!), was honoring the families sitting in the stands remembering their lost ones from the previous year who were killed in the Columbia space shuttle mission. I was honored to honor them that way.

It was undeniably one of the greatest privileges I have had in this lifetime, and one I will never forget.

I have posted the video for you. If you look closely at some points you will see me in the top right corner. Then, you will see Jen as she gets a close up shot! :) So fun.

Hope you enjoy! Many hugs to all of you on this Superbowl Weekend. I hope it is fabulous!