All Things Nellis

Love & Marriage....and other fine things!

2009-06-17T11:56:00.024-05:00

What's new with the Nellis'...let's see what's not new right? School is out for the summer...the girls are excited it's summer for sure. I'm enjoying the break of having something to do every night as well!!! Madison is no longer going to Pre-Schoo/Daycare. They upped the prices, we just couldn't afford it, so we thought we'd give her a summer too. Rita, Chris' mom is watching her for us during the day. She's getting so big and is so smart. Yesterday she asked me "What's 2 and 1?" I said I don't know what is it? She said "Three!...I'm smarter than you" LOL She's ate up. All three girls graduated -- Maddie from Pre-School, Emily from 5th grade, and Christina from 8th Grade...so yes..that means next year Christina will be a freshman, Emily will be in Middle School...and Madison will be in Kindergarten! Can't believe how fast time goes by sometimes. I don't have any pictures though, cuz I was videotaping them. :(

On May 2, Chris and I got married. I LOVE the married life. He is a good man and a good husband, and we are just enjoying being together as a family. It's really great, and I'm so happy! He didn't even freak out the day of the wedding. He said he wasn't nervous, he was excited and very happy about being married...If you know Chris that just might be a miracle...I figured he'd be just completely nervous and freaked out! He sang to me after we lit the unity candles...He sang a song calld "Grace of My Life" by Brian Littrell. It was beautiful, and he broke down and cried through most of it..however even when he was crying he managed to hold it together and get the notes out. It was the sweetest, most real, tender moment I think I've had. I saw his heart...the pure love and appreciation he has for me when he sang that song. It was a moment and feeling I'll never forget! The reception was great, short and sweet, but still amazing all the same. Everything was beautiful. I'm posting some pics now...Enjoy!

He sees me for the 1st time:

Here is he singing to me:

After Ceremony Pictures:

Families:

Wedding Party:
April -- Maid of Honor (sister)

Mandy -- Bridesmaid (best friend)

Christina -- Bridesmaid (step-daughter)

Emily -- Jr. Bridesmaid (step-daughter)

Madison -- Flower Girl (step-daughter)

Chris and his groomsmen:
Best Man -- Bob Hollander (brother-in-law)
Groomsmen -- Frankie Nellis (brother), Todd Roth (friend)
Ushers -- Walt Hatfield (brother-in-law), Keith Yordy (Crystal's brother)

Pastor Jeff Stratton:

I'll post more later...that was A LOT!!! :)

Happy New Year

2009-01-23T09:42:00.012-06:00

So Christmas, New Years, and My birthday have all come and gone! Christmas was great, and my mom and sister were home from Dec. 27th thru Jan.3 (Ape was here until like the 7th). Anyhow..I was on vacation while they were here, and we got some Wedding shopping/planning done. It was awesome to have Mom here. She doesn't get to come home very often. The girls had a really great Christmas, and of course my mom and sister spoiled them good. April bought us (as a family) the Nintendo Wii. Needless to say, we were so excited. The girls got what they asked for, and I'll post some pictures and videos on here after this short post. Another thing we did in December is we got a family membership @ the YMCA here. I might have said that before, can't remember. Chris signed up for Judo classes, and me and the girls go to the Y and just workout. Emily goes into the Kids/Teenager room where they have workout machines for younger kids, computers, air hockey table, and a Nintendo Wii (she particularly loves the Dance Dance Revolution). So we're working on being a more healthy active family. I personally love the fact that we do it as a family. I've just started taking ZUMBA classes. It's like latin inspired dnace aerobics. Get those Hips a'moving!!! I love it. Here are some pictures to share w/you:

This is April back when she was here in October -- we got her a cake for her birthday

Rita w/her present from us. It matches her kitchen perfectly, and all of the words fit her to a "T":

Frank L-O-V-E-D his chocolate:

Emily & Maddie loved their Puppy In My Pockets:

Christina and her "Sock Ornaments" she got from Frank & Rita:(I got vidoes of all of her other presents, clothes and her MP3 Player)

Chris' present from me...he looks sexier in a Colts Sweatshirt LOL:

My present from Chris: I LOVE it!

Miles' present from my mom:

I will put up some more pictures and videos later...back to work I go!

Merry Christmas

2008-12-26T13:41:00.003-06:00

We had a great Christmas...I have lots to update and pictures to post...but for right now this will have to do. I saw it on Dawn's blog and had to steal the idea...I crack up when i watch it. :) Enjoy!!!

Ok so the video no longer works...Hope you got to see it, it was funny!

I'm pretty much Horrible @ Blogging

2008-11-04T12:45:00.004-06:00

This is just ad admission blog -- "I AM HORRIBLE AT KEEPING A CONSISTENT UP TO DATE BLOG!!" -- I'm trying though...so to all my 3 readers here come some updates! :)

OK I started this blog on Nov. 9th...and it's now Nov. 26th...I'm really awesome at this here Blog stuff right? So anyhow...here is a quick, short update...
Wedding plans are coming along, but the fact that it's almost 5 months to the day is making me a little nervous.

I started going to the gym on Oct. 23...and I've lost 8 lbs...which I know 8lbs isn't alot...BUT it is 8lbs...so I'm happy that I lost that in a month! So YAY for me!! I'm excited...Plus I feel better after I've been working out, I have more energy, I'm less tired...it's all around nice! So I figure if I keep up the 8 lbs or so per month, I'll lose about 40 lbs in 6 months...that would be really awesome! So keep pushing me if you remember :) It's not just my appearance, but my life, my health so it's all around good for me!!!

Chris is doing OK, he's working pretty hard, and has been working out of town (in St. Louis) for the last month. He's gone all week, comes home late on Friday, and then leaves again on Sunday. That's been tough for me and the girls. We try to make the most of the weekends when he's home, but still it's not the same as having him here. Plus it's so much easier to have a helper around...I feel for the Single Mom's out there...or Dad's for that matter. It's rough doing it on your own sometimes...

The girls are good, Christina is doing OK in school, Emily is doing well, and Madison is doing alot better w/Daycare (we call it school for her too). She's writing now and you should see her write her name. It's almost perfect. She writes Maddie...because that's what I wrote one time when she told me to write her name. she even told her Daddy how to write her name "First you make a M...then after that you make a A...etc..." Cute! Everyone is getting excited for Christmas of course. I'm going to venture out on Black Friday because well I might be insane..but you know...I can't help it! :) There are good deals, and I'm hoping to get most of my Christmas shopping done in one day...OK that MIGHT be insane!

OK well there's my update..have a BLESSED THANKSGIVING...

And I Said What About...Breakfast At Tiffany's....

2008-09-16T14:46:00.008-05:00

So on September the 5th we had a suprise birthday party for our friend Micah. She really likes the movie Breakfast At Tiffany's so it was decided to do that as the "theme" of her birthday. Here are some pictures -- they should speak enough :)
Here are all the ladies that dressed up:

The Birthday girl and her husband:

Me and Micah:

Me and Tara:

Me and My Baby Close Up:

Relaxing:

Me, Tara and Lisa:

Some More Daddy & Maddie Times!

2008-09-02T19:27:00.008-05:00

So I just uploaded pics from my camera onto my computer, so I have to post some of them! Here are some of Chris & Maddie, a silly picture of Emily..and I think that's it!

Reading her new 3D Book: (good thing it comes w/2 pair of 3D Glasses)

The elephant mask came with another new book...she wore that mask all day for like 3 days straight...see she wouldn't even take it off to suck on her fingers: (we're working on that habit):

After bath cuddle time:

Daddy & Maddie play time:

Here is the silly pic of Emily..she's so funny:

My "M & M"

2008-09-02T18:32:00.010-05:00

Well I'm not the happiest I've been because I'm sick...but ya know...I guess you'll have that. But that's not what I'm blogging about. I just want to share some pictures with you. Miles is doing good, bless his little heart...I just love that pug! He brings such joy to us, and makes us smile even when we don't want to, or don't think we can...now that is a gift from God if I've ever seen one! Pugs are quite possibly the best dogs ever, and I am not just biased. They are absolutely precious, and loyal, and sweet, and love you and play with you all day and night!!! Love my Miles!!!! Maddie and Miles are so cute together too...I have some pictures here that are just hilarious! They are mostly of Miles and Maddie, I call them my M&M!

Miles hanging out:

This picture is just precious to me. He always lays down with Maddie, and this picture was priceless. You can see her pull up but ya know, it's OK it's a pull up!

Miles really likes his new toy! 1st he uses it as a pillow, and then he cuddles with it! Too cute!!

Miles went to the groomer for the first time! I love the bandana:

He's a poser just like his momma:

His precious little profile: (if you look closely you can see what we put on his tags -- "Sir Miles The Grunt")

WEDNESDAY = HUMP DAY

2008-08-27T12:39:00.006-05:00

Everybody's working for the weekend...and the goodnews is this one coming up is Labor Day weekend, so it's a 3 day weekend...Who doesn't love that?!?!!

We want to do something, but haven't made any definite plans, so I dont' know if we'll actually do anything at all. We talked about taking the kids camping, or taking them to the caves like we did last summer...so far haven't come up with anything "definite".

I'm trying to think of what I need to "blog" about...something newsworthy..Oh YEAH! Maddie started daycare (we call it school cuz she hates the word daycare...lol) Yesterday. She was excited to go to "school", we were worried but she seemed to do really well. Chris said the teacher told him that Maddie cried a little bit around lunch time for her Daddy, but other than that she did really good. She said that Maddie also told her when they were eating lunch "My Daddy's food is better than yours" LOLOLOL She's so funny.

I took her this morning, and she was fine until we got to the doors, and she said "I don't like nap time in there" and did that pout-getting ready to cry- face. But no tears...she went inside with me and to her class, and showed me her cubby hole, and where to put her stuff. So much fun...I took a picture of her on her 1st day of "school" I'll post them soon...they are on my camera @ home.

I can't believe how big she is. Chris and I were just saying yesterday how if you look at her face, she's starting to look like a little kid, not so much a baby or toddler anymore. It's crazy how quickly they grow up! I miss her being a little baby already! :)

Well that's all for today...Continue to work for the weekend...it's almost here!!!

Miles...sleepy time...

2008-08-22T11:58:00.004-05:00

Ok so this is funny....Miles was sitting up and gradually was falling asleep while he was sitting there, so I had to take these pictures :) He is so funny!

Stage 1:

Stage 2:

Stage 3:

Stage 4: (Out!!)

A Little Scare

2008-08-22T11:08:00.003-05:00

So on Monday, Linda (the girls grandma) called me and said that Maddie had told her her chest hurt, when Linda asked her what it felt like she said "my heart is beeping fast and high, and it hurts". Hello that's kind of scary. She has said "My chest hurts" here and there but we assumed it was part of her digestion that was giving her troubles, she was getting heartburn or acid reflux. So this is the first time she's said anything like that.

I called her doctor and they told me to get her in to see the Doctor right away, that day (monday). They told me they couldn't reschedule, that they needed to see her that day. Chris and I took her to the doctor. When we got there, the nurse called Maddie up to the window and said "You left this here the last time you were here". It was one of Maddie's stuffed dogs. And Maddie ran back over to us and said "I didn't know I leaved it here!" "I'm glad they watched it, and didn't let anyone chew on it!" Chris and I cracked up laughing...Needless to say, the doggie went to every visit with her.

I must say that Dr. Jenelle Myers was really amazing with Maddie. I would recommend her to anyone...she got Maddie to tell her what was wrong with her and Maddie was totally relaxed! She told us that it could be nothing, but they didn't want to take any chances, so she ordered us to get a Chest X-Ray and an EKG. She got to choose a toy (she got a ring pop)and a sticker.

We went to X-Ray and she wanted Daddy to go in with her, not me...but he said that she did really well. He said that she stood there and did everything the X-Ray Tech told her. She got a toy and a sticker @ the doctors, and then another 4 stickers from the X-Ray place. Then it was on to Deaconess Gateway Hospital for the EKG.

She did really good here too. She looked a little scared but was watching intently as the nurse was getting the stickers ready to put on Maddie. They were really sticky, and Maddie kept asking questions. "What are these for?" "What do they do" etc... It only took like 2 minutes max...and we were out of there. I snapped a picture w/her on the table w/her blue stickers on her belly...waiting for the cords to be attached for the actual EKG. You can only see 2 stickers but there were a lot more on her upper chest and arms...Notice you can see her stuffed doggie in the picture:

She loved the fish tanks in the doctor's offices. She was doing little improv voices for the fish. She's so funny! They told us that we should have the Chest X-Ray results back on Monday night, and then the EKG results on Tuesday.

TEST RESULTS:
Monday night Dr. Jenelle Myers called and told me that the Chest X-Ray came back completely normal and they'd call us when they got the EKG results back.

Wednesday the Dr. FINALLY called us and told us the EKG results were normal as well. So THANK GOD for that!!!

We are relieved!!! :)

August Update

2008-08-22T10:33:00.003-05:00

Ok so I'm going to take a moment to give some updates...I know I've posted about th wedding, and colors and dresses...but here is an update on us!!

The girls went back to school on the 11th. They both started new schools this year. The week before school started, we went to get them enrolled, and got to take a brief tour of the schools. Christina was nervous, but after the visit to the school she seemed excited. It's a lot bigger school, and it has 2 gyms and an auditorium. She was excited about possibilities, drama, plays, musicals, etc...She joined choir, and she's taking pre algebra, science, social studies, english, lit and a tech/arts class.

Emily was excited aobut going to a new school because she didn't really like her old one. I think the thing she was excited about the most was being able to ride her bike to school. I've never seen a kid so excited! She even made me ride my bike with her before school started. She even put her back pack on so that she could "get what it feels like to ride to school" with all of her stuff.

The first week of school came and went. Emily loved it...Christina really didn't like it at first. I think just the total difference of people, and places, and not feeling like she belonged there yet, was just a lot for her. However, since the first week of school she is liking it, and has made friends, and that makes me happy! So both girls are adjusting really well now.

Madison is going to be starting Day Care/Pre-School on Tuesday. Chris is enrolling her on Monday, and her first day is Tuesday. We've talked about it with her, and she said she wants to go to school and is excited about it...so hopefully it won't be so bad. We are doing it because she will be starting Kindergarten next year, and she's never been to day care or a sitter or anything, only her moms, or grandmas or us. So she needs to get used to being in a classroom environment.

So that's where we are right now...that's been our August. Of course mixed in there has been school supply shopping, school clothes shopping, and paying fees, and making sure they have everything that they need...

I Forgot!!

2008-08-18T23:51:00.003-05:00

Ok...so here are the mix-n-match dresses that I like too. Of course pink w/green accents, not the blue in the picture...but anyways...that's my "ideas" thus far...I think people either like it or hate it...but that's OK :)

Pink + Green = Spring

2008-08-18T11:11:00.008-05:00

So I've decided on my wedding colors with the help of some pictures that I found on the net. I was looking for inspiration and nothing was screaming out at me. Because of these pictures I'm pretty positive these are the colors that I want: Pink & Green. OK now stop making that face, I'm not talking pastel pink and pastel green. Bright Pink and Brighter green. Here are my pictures of inspiration...tell me what you think:
I really like this invitation. I'm hoping to be able to make something similar myself...I'm doing a lot of DIY things:

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this! This was one of my deciding factors. This is so pretty, looks fairly simple, and is very springy:

I also like this...I think I like the Limes better but either way:

These are just my inspiration for colors and some possible decorating ideas. Just thought I'd share...I'm giong to try to post some later and put some updated pictures on here...the key word here is TRY!!!

2008-08-06T14:19:00.003-05:00

It's showing in Evansville, so it very well could be showing where you are...check & see!!!

Daddy/Maddie Silly Faces

2008-08-03T15:51:00.010-05:00

Happy Face:

Mad Face:

Surprised Face:

Monkey Face:

Swimming

2008-08-02T22:41:00.003-05:00

Today we went to Mandy's house and hung out w/her and her boys. We watched a couple of movies, and went swimming. It was stinkin' HOT today, and the pool was 90 degrees so that tells you how hot it's been lately. The girls always have fun playing with Dathan and Chance. Chris went with us this time, so he took over the grilling duties...Mandy and I didn't mind. The kids played from 3:30 till 9:00 straight..no breaks...lol needless to say on the way home, all 3 girls were conked out...Well Emily was almost asleep when we pulled up to her Mimi's house. All of the kiddos should be sleeping good tonight!
I'm going to come back in here and put on some pictures of the swimming tomorrow!
This one's short, but I'm kind pooped myself...
OK back to post pictures!!
Christina Floating on the Lobster:

Chance:

Dathan kept trying to hide from me when I would take his picture, this one worked out great..too cute:

Carson swimming w/Mommy:

What do we do w/this Lobster?!?!

Finally got him to smile on camera:

July Recap: Fireworks, a Flood and a Date!

2008-08-01T09:45:00.002-05:00

So of course, July 4th is a big part of July. We got an invitation to go to one of our friend's church. They had blow up waterslides for the kids, and 3 man slip-n-slide, and bungee run, and a blow up castle for the kids to play in...and of course food and fireworks. It was a lot of fun. The fireworks were awesome!! They had really good ones, and really big ones. I was really impressed. Of course our (Chris & I) favorite part was the cornhole game. Chris and I played against Micah & Bernie and it was so much fun. We played couple against couple, and then boys vs. girls. I think the boys beat us..but that's OK. We were all pretty competitive though!

Frank & Rita went on vacation with Walt & Ann, and Bob & Rita and their families. (Chris' sisters and their husbands). They went out west to Wyoming, South Dakota etc...They are traveling in 2 RV's. They left on July 17th and will be coming back home on Sunday August 3. While they are gone, I've been working from home to stay w/Maddie and the girls since Rita usually takes care of them while Chris and I work. So it's been nice working in my PJ's...but hard to concentrate when the kids forget that I'm home, but I'm WORKING! LOL

Right before they left for vacation, we used the money we got from the insurance company and remodeled the kitchen. It looks really nice. Painted the walls a golden color, and accented it w/a dark red. Rita likes border, so she chose one w/light houses on it...one white and one a dark red. Sot he accent colors really bring that out. We got a new counter top too since the other one was ruined. The only things left is some touching up on the paint, and putting in the new window and putting up the new ceiling fan.

During the week of the 21st (again I can't remember what day for some reason..and it was just last week lol) I woke up and went downstairs...I was going to ask Chris something, and when I walked downstairs I saw water on the floor, and when I walked into Chris's room the carpet was soaked and with each step water would seep out of the carpet over my foot. Come to find out the Hot Water Heater had busted, and put 2-3 inches of water all over the basement. So last week and this week and have been all about cleaning up the mess...calling the insurance people, making lists of what was damaged, etc...It's been a mess, but the good thing that came out of it is that it forced us to clean out the basement LOL

Also in July Chris and I decided on our wedding date. Yep finally! We are getting married on May 2, 2009.

June Recap: Where There's Smoke...There's Fire

2008-08-01T09:38:00.004-05:00

OK so way back when I was doing pretty good and giving updates on a fairly regular basis. I must say that I am officially, without a doubt a Blogging Slacker.

So much has happened...so I'm going to play catch up. Here's a June recap...(This one is dedicated to you Jenny...check out the title!!!!)

In June we went to Holiday World, and we swam a lot...went to my friend Mandy's house a couple of times...and went to Newburgh Pool. My sister also was in in June and she took the girls to swim while I worked.

I got my wedding dress, picked out and put a deposit down (layaway). So that is so exciting...but as of June...still no date set for the wedding! :)

Towards the end of June (can't remember the exact date) I was downstairs laying down w/Maddie watching a show before we went to bed, and I kept smelling something...smelled like something was burning, or almost like something electrical burning...but it was faint and it disappeared and I thought..hmm ok..guess I was imagining things...then there it was again...this time it was a little stronger, but then it faded again...so I was more alert, but since it faded again, I wasn't concerned. Then it was back, and it was stronger...so finally I tell Maddie "Stay right here, I'm going to see what that smell is" I walk over the fan and that's not it...then I knock on Frankie's door, ask him if he's burning anything, and he said No. Then I walked up the stairs from the basement, and you know that feeling you get when you know something is wrong...yeah I had that..and I could see an orange like glow coming from under the door. It's kind of a blur to me as I open the door I immediately feel like someone is choking me...because the kitchen and living room are filled with smoke. I look and see it...a FIRE! Over by the sink...under the window...the toaster!!! It's on fire...I walk over to it...and I think OK..it's electrical so you can't use water...I look under the sink..there's no fire extinguisher...I run downstairs, and grab Maddie and Miles...but not before screaming at the top of my lungs letting everyone know there's a fire. You see Frank & Rita were in their room w/their door closed, and they didn't smell anything. Frankie was in his room downstairs, he didn't smell anything...so I am pretty sure taht I've never ran so fast....I've never been able to run up stairs so fast holding Maddie..:) I take Maddie and Miles outside...they are safe...Then I look inside and see Rita and Frank and Frankie standing in the kitchen, and Rita is pouring water on the electrical Fire!!! I scream "RITA...YOU'RE NOT SUPPOSED TO PUT WATER ON AN ELECTRICAL FIRE!!!" But to my surprise the flames go out. She says I don't know God just gave me peace, and I just felt like I was doing the right thing!
She then sets fans up to pull the smoke outside, and in about 20 minutes the smoke had cleared, but the house still had that putrid smell. So thank God that everyone was OK, and I'm thankful that God let me smell it...because 5 more minutes and the house would have been engulfed in flames. You see the curtains had started to singe and were almost on fire when Rita put the fire out...that would've started the wall in the kitchen, and it was just inches away from the electrical outlet.
Here are some of the pictures:

Just Hanging Out @ Home

2008-06-05T17:40:00.001-05:00

We are all sitting here waiting for Chris to get up so that we can go eat some Mexican...Mmmmm Los Bravos....YUM YUM YUM!!!!

We're just sitting here listening to the Veggie Tales: Boys In The Sink Music CD...[lyrics -- I need to tell you sumpthin...I ain't got no belly button...] Ha Ha
Emily & Maddie are playing on the couch, Miles and his new friend Bathsheba (Sheeba for short) which is Chris' sister's family's new puppy. She's only 6 weeks old and she's already the same size as Miles...But he had fun playing with her...I have a video of that...so cute!

We're all eagerly awaiting 6:00 when we get to wake Daddy up and go to Los Bravos...mmmm have I said that I love Mexican food?!?!?! Anyhow...it's a normal day @ home. Having fun just being here...

Nothing else is really new...summer is here and already the girls have cabin fever. We just found out that Stacey (the girls' mom) wants to have Maddie's dedication on July 6th @ Word Of His Grace...she wants Chris and I to sing together, and her to sign during the song...so we're now looking for songs....

I am excited to say that my sister is coming home from Vegas on June 10-17..I'm so excited..I haven't seen her in about a year! We are going to have a girls day out on July 12th. We (Me, April, Brenda, and the girls are all going to go Wedding Dress/Bridesmaid dress/Jr. Bridesmaid dress/Flower girl dress shopping. I'm so excited!!!! Speaking of wedding planning...I want to get married this Fall, but Chris says he wants a Spring wedding...sooo there is no date set yet. I have lots of ideas and things that I know we're going to do...I'm going to meet w/the pastor of the former church I used to attend, to see about getting married there. I'm going to see if he would consider letting me get married since I used to be a member there, and what that would mean as far as pastors, counseling, etc...Anyhow...as I know anything definite...I'll post it....

Well that's about it...It's 5:57...3 more minutes and we're on our way to Los Bravos!!! Wooo Hooo....:)

Playing in the Rain

2008-06-02T23:07:00.009-05:00

So it was last Tuesday, it started raining @ like 4pm...By 5:15 roads were flooded, and the rain kept on coming down! It wasn't lightning, and when I got home, I had to take my shoes off and walk through the water on the street to get from the car to the house. Chris' sister was here, and her kids were playing in the rain. Maddie wanted to really bad, but I wasn't sure if I should let her, then the kid in me remembered playing in the rain...and I was like let's go! So Maddie and I ran outside and played in the rain. I of course was under the umbrella, and you can hear the rain, and my loud mouth but still here are some pictures and the video. Hope you enjoy!!!

Moving on up, Burnt like toast and very humbled!!!

2008-06-02T10:53:00.003-05:00

So OK it's been a while since I've posted...SORRY! I must say the last week or so has been incredibly busy. A lot has happened, and this past weekend was very hectic and started out in a terrible way! The fact that it's already Monday is crazy... Friday I took a vacation day to get my moving done since Rain was in the forecast for the weekend, plus we were participating in a Neighborhood Yard Sale to sell most of my stuff....So anyhow....I'm done moving..and that makes me extremely happy! I hate moving w/a passion. Really, I counted the other day, and the ones that came to my rememberance, I have moved 22 times in the 31 years I've been alive....yes I said 22....No wonder I hate it, I should be a pro now though! LOL

Friday started out alright, but ended in a scary, bad way. I don't want to just post personal things so I won't give specific details, but I was @ my apartment cleaning, and I got a call from Emily. She was so upset that I could barely understand her. Finally I could make out "Come to mama's house now...PLEASE!" There was an emergency scare that happened, and Emily had to call 911. Her Mimi(Stacey's mom) was there with her. But luckily the ambulance/police got there in time, and she was able to go home....We prayed alot for Emily and for Stacey that night, and I am thankful that it didn't turn out any worse. Time was of the essence, and Stacey seems to be doing better mentally. Please if you are reading this, keep the kids in your prayers, especially Emily. She was really messed up and affected by this. However, after we prayed with her, and after Christina really stepped up and was there for Emily she had more peace, and was able to calm down.
Chris & his friend Todd moved almost all of my stuff for me that night, thank God for them!!!

Saturday morning brought the Neighborhood Yard Sale. We ended up making about 64 bucks...alot less than we had hoped for, BUT we are going to sell our stuff @ Stacey's Yard Sale this weekend as well, hopefully it'll be a success for everyone else as well. Now I'll tell you about a SMART Crystal move on Saturday...Ready??? I didn't even THINK about sunscreen. I am BURNT to a crisp....and I have the most wonderful of farmer tans going on....seriously I look ridiculous LOL I'm such a dork...I am glow in the dark white, and the Sun and I have never been friends, so what made me think I wouldn't need sunscreen LOL

Yesterday was a good day. Christina and I went shopping and we both got a pair of shorts, I got a shirt, she got a shirt, and two tank tops and 2 pairs of flip flops...and we both got a pair of sunglasses...We had a good Girls Day Out...I think we both needed it!

And last night Rita told me that God gave her a scripture about me...It's in Ruth 4:15 and it reads:

15And may he be to you a restorer of life and a nourisher and supporter in your old age, for your daughter-in-law who loves you, who is better to you than seven sons, has borne him

She told me that God told her that in her old age, I would be better to her than 7 sons, (or her 2 sons)...that is very humbling and really just moved both her and I. God is so good, and it was awesome to hear that (from God) through her!

Working from home: The End of the Road

2008-05-23T10:31:00.002-05:00

Ok so I didn't get to update about the rest of my week working from home...so here goes...

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of this week I worked from home...It got a little better, i learned how to juggle work, and constant requests,and pleads for attention, food, "play with me", "hold me" etc...from Maddie! She really was good, but she's 4, and well what can you expect?

I found that being home everyday with Maddie was actually a joy! It's not easy, and it's work so for all of you stay-at-home mom's out there! Props to you!!! I wish I had that option now...but hey the world we live in is a little limiting. The cost of everything is OUTRAGEOUS...Hello can you say Gas was $3.99 a gallon yesterday...that's ridiculous....but anyways...

It was progressive working at home, by Thursday I had a routine down, and had it all worked out giving Maddie what she needed, (medicine, food, cartoons, toys, etc...) and was able to get more work done...But I tell ya it's no vacation...and being @ home was nice, but it's nice to be at work and be able to focus on work...or nice to be at home and be able to focus only on kids, housework, etc....

Anyhow...we have a busy weekend planned....we have a wedding Saturday, I have dinner w/my best friend who's home from Virginia for the weekend...then Chris' sister and her family will be in...and we're celebrating Maddie's birthday too!!!

Have a blessed weekend!

Priorities Check

2008-05-22T12:34:00.001-05:00

Here are a couple of quotes I ran across the other day, and they really challenged me, encouraged me and convicted me...so I wanted to share them w/my few blog readers!! :)

This one is from a friend's mom. Her husband is living with Cancer & in the 2nd half of his treatments...If you have a chance stop by and read their caring bridge journal..you will no doubt be inspired and moved by their faith and trust in God...

"We trust Him with our tomorrows so that we can enjoy our todays." (JoNell Deifenbaugh)

The next two I got out of my daily devotional that was titled "Establishing Priorities"

"I decided not to let all my time be used by people for whom I make little difference, while I neglect those for whom I'm irreplaceable" (Bishop Edward Earl Jenkins)

"Time is an equal opportunity employer. We all get 24 hours, 1,440 minutes, 86,400 seconds daily & we must account for how we use them. So ask yourself: how would you spend the next 24 hours if you knew you'd stand before God tomorrow -- then get busy!" (Bishop Edward Earl Jenkins)

I hope atleast one has touched you, moved you, convicted you or challenged you! I am busy all the time...but I'm not sure I'm always busy with the right busy stuff...Help me Lord to seek you daily...and to sort out what it is you will have me do, and put aside what I think I should do. Your ways are higher!!!

Working from home: Friend or Foe?

2008-05-19T14:31:00.002-05:00

Day 1:
OK so today is officially my first day working from home this week, while Chris' parents are out of town. (They usually keep Maddie during the day for us). So here begins the week...(in timeline format today)

11:00pm (last night) -- I finally get to sleep
2:30am -- Emily comes in and says she's having bad dreams, and she's prayed and they still won't go away. Ironically enough I was having bad dreams as well, and had woken up when she came in from my own. Anyhow, we prayed and then went to sleep. Picture this: Me, Emily AND Maddie in double bed. (not a full or queen but DOUBLE)...
5:00am -- TIME TO GET UP!!! (yes I'm serious). Emily won citizenship 3 times this year so she got to go on a trip to St. Louis today w/some of her schoolmates. She has to be at her school @ 5:30. So we get up and go..I got here there w/5 minutes to spare...not too shabby eh.
5:45-6:45am -- Made Chris' lunch, took Christina medicine to try to help her w/her allergies and stomach issues from the night before. She was sick so she stayed home.Maddie woke up at about 6:00 too. All sick and tired and cranky...bless her heart. Left to take Chris to work.
7:10am -- get a call from Chris he forgot his lunch. So I came back here got it and took it there.
7:30am -- got here, signed onto the computer and started my work day. Maddie went to bed @ 8:00.
11:45pm -- I decide to take a half-hour lunch and take a cat nap because hello I'm exhausted...LOL Just as I lay down, and start to fall asleep, Maddie & Christina wake up, then my alarm goes off...so much for that...
2:41pm -- (that's right now, as I'm writing this)...and I'm really really really tired. Maddie is asleep again after she tried to eat some lunch..Christina is asleep again, Miles is barking at the trash guys outside (it's big trash day)...and my ICQ is blowing up w/work requests....

Come on...seriously...lol so much for the "joy" of working from home! LOL
Well I hope tomorrow goes better...stay tuned for day 2...who knows what it'll bring!
Have a great day....pray for Maddie and Christina...they're both sick...:)
Love all 3 of you that read my blog!!!! ha ha

Promise of more updated posts!

2008-05-17T18:30:00.001-05:00

Hey there all of my like 3 readers out there! LOL
I know it's been forever since I've posted, but work has been crazy and up to now I've only had internet @ work. I now have internet @ home, so that will enable me to update more often! Woo Hoo right? Anyhow...I am home ALONE right now....so quiet and so nice! Chris went fishing, Christina is at a Christian concert @ the Internet Cafe here in town, and Emily & Madison are at their mommy's house for the weekend.
They are celebrating Maddie's birthday tomorrow. She will be 4 on May 21st...I can't believe it!

Have a great day, and expect more posts more often!
God Bless :)

Fireproof

2008-05-07T12:28:00.002-05:00

Hey there!!! So I added a link to your right (towards the bottom) in my "People & Things I Love" Section for the movie coming out called Fireproof.

I am really excited about it and believe that God is going to use this movie in a mighty way...So I wanted to share it with you....
You can watch the trailer, behind the scenes, and my personal favorite is the video of the Warren Barfield song "Love Is Not A Fight"...you have to watch the video and listen to this song!!!
Check it out and let me know what you think!

So long...and nothing to say

2008-04-30T16:38:00.003-05:00

So it's been wow...it's been 12 days since my last post...and ya know what I really don't have anything to say...lol It could be that I'm just tired and my mind is on shutdown mode! :)

A couple of things:

I got a raise (well our yearly raises at work)...and it was A LOT better than I thought it would be..I was really excited!!!

Umm...things @ home w/the kids are pretty good...Everyone is just getting used to it ya know?

My Best friend of forever, Mandy, just had her 3rd baby boy. Carson Lewis Mickem 7 lbs. 14 oz. born April 26 @ 6:33 PM. Here is a precious picture....

I'm All Shook Up

2008-04-18T14:50:00.002-05:00

If you haven't heard...we had an "event" of seismic proportion @ about 4:36 AM today. I woke up staring at the dresser across from my bed, looking at a little blue lamp sitting on top of it. It was shaking and dancing across the dresser...I was still asleep and trying to figure out if I was asleep or awake, was it real or fake?

Well it was real. We had a 5.2 earthquake this morning. The Epi Center of the earthquake was 38 miles away from Evansville. It lasted between like 20-30 seconds...pretty long. Bless Mile's little heart...he slept // snored through the entire thing! :) I finally fell back asleep @ about 5:15 AM and slept till 6:30 when it was time to get up.

Fast Forward to 10:14 AM -- we had an aftershock. I'm sitting at my desk and everything is shaking on my desk. This particular aftershock was a 4.5 and lasted for 22 seconds.

It's just crazy because it's not like we get earthquaked around here very often. The last time we had one was in 2002. Tornados, flooding...yes we're used to that...earthquakes...not so much! :)

It's been an Elvis song themed kind of day....."I'm All Shook Up!"

Ode to Sweet Tea

2008-04-15T10:32:00.003-05:00

Sweet Tea, Sweet Tea O how I love thee Sweet Tea!!!

Sweet to my lips, yummy to my tummy

I love my sweet tea, to not know that you'd be a dummy!

I know you're not good for me, this is true

I can't give you up, no can do

Sweet Tea, O Yummy Sweet Tea...Here's to you!

Yes I seriously did just make up a ridiculous poem about Sweet Tea! I'm such a dork!

I guess this will sum it up quite nicely:

The Sweet, Pure Prayers of Babies

2008-04-15T08:09:00.004-05:00

Last night Maddie and I went to Target. On the way home, she was asking me if something in the backseat was a heart. I said "I don't know, I can't see it, but this is a heart." (I made a heart w/my two thumbs and pointer fingers). Here is how the conversation went from there:

Maddie: Yeah
Crystal: Hearts are good.
Maddie: Why are hearts good?
Crystal: Because that's the part that keeps us alive, and also the part that God looks at and loves most about us.
Maddie: Oh, I'm going to ask God.
Crystal: OK
Maddie: God, why are hearts good?
Maddie: Hmmm
Crystal: Did he answer you?
Maddie: I don't know I can't hear him.
Crystal: Well, sometimes if you sit still, and just listen, that's when you hear God.
Maddie: (after a pause) I still can't hear him and I didn't even move!
Crystal: Well sometimes we just have to wait
Maddie: I still want to talk to God.
Crystal: OK
Maddie: I don't know how
Crystal: Just talk to him like you talk to me.
Maddie: OK
Maddie: God....please give me a good heart and not a bad one. Please give me good dreams, not bad ones. Like the 'nother day, I had a dream about animals. I don't like bad ones, I don't want to see bad stuff. I like animals. I want to come to heaven, but I can't right now. It will be forever before I come up there, but I want to play with all your animals. When we get there we have to praise God. You're God, so we will praise you. I really want to play with all the animals. (then I got parked the car, got out and opened her door to get her out of her carseat...she was still praying...)...and let us know you hear our voices....AMEN

The entire time I was in the car, all I could do was say "Thank you God, for letting me hear this, and how simply, sweetly, and purely she is talking to you." Forgive me for making it complicated or not even doing it at all. Out of the mouths of babes.....

Be blessed! I know I was after I was blessed enough to be the one in the car hearing this!!! :)

From a Meredith to a Nellis

2008-04-11T14:39:00.008-05:00

It's interesting to me. When I was in high school and I liked a boy, I'd doodle his name, or I Y (boy's name)...or the big one....Crystal _____ (enter boys last name here). I think early on in mine and Chris' relationship I doodled Crystal Nellis. I laughed at myself because I was 28 and umm hello how dumb is that @ 28? Ha...another confirmation that I'm SUCH a girl! But the funny thing is we joked some as a family "how funny would it be if we did get married because we'd have Chris, Crystal, & Christina Nellis."

Reality sits in -- and it's the happiest of realities I've faced...but weird all the same. I'm going from a Meredith to a Nellis. Crystal Dawn Nellis. Funny...I've been Crystal Dawn Meredith for 31 1/2 years....but I will say it's the greatest weirdness I've ever felt!

I've also discovered the inner girl in me when it comes to thinking about the wedding. Chris and I initially talked about flying out to Vegas getting married there, and then coming back home and having a reception/family commitment ceremony w/the girls. But now Christina is so excited about being in the wedding...and surprisingly so is Emily. So I envision the girls walking down the aisle before me, and it makes me so happy I could cry. I'm making plans such as:

Maddie = flower girl
Emily = Jr. Bridesmaid
Christina = Bridesmaid

Then I find myself thinking about songs, guests....lol there it is...OH CRAP!!!!...do I actually want a wedding!?!?! I'm pretty sure that's what's happening....However, eloping sounds so much more appealing 80% of the time! Ha Ha

Well anyhow....I was just dealing w/new and really great realities today and thought I'd share them. I hope this finds you well. Have a blessed weekend!

Ring and How He did It!

2008-04-09T12:48:00.010-05:00

OK so you can't really see my beautiful ring in the picture below...so I took some w/my camera phone. The quality isnt' very good, and you can't see the *sparkle* in the picture but you get the idea. I love it! It's exactly what I wanted!!! Also I never told you how he proposed....We were out on a walk, and it was dark. He found a place w/lots of light (so the ring would sparkle when I opened it, he told me afterwards) Here is how it went:

We were in front of the high school, and he said "I learned alot about education and life in there (in the school), {then he got down on one knee} and continued "but I've never learned as much about love as I have since I've been with you. You've stuck with me through a lot. I love you, and I want you to be my wife" and my response was "It's so pretty!!!" I guess that's translation for YES! Ha-Ha....It was sweet and perfect to me! :)

In Other News.........

2008-04-08T16:12:00.002-05:00

Chris and I are engaged!!!!!! :)

Here is the picture we took....we had just went on a walk so we don't look very "picture pretty" but anyways...here ya go:

Court Ruling Update

2008-04-08T16:05:00.003-05:00

Like I posted in my last blog, we went to court yesterday morning for the modification of custody. We had been praying that God would intervene so that His will be done for the kids' sake, and that he would make it to where it wouldn't get ugly, or mean or drag the kids through anything. When we go there Stacey's lawyer gave us an offer. In the end she voluntarily agreed to giving Chris Primary Physical Legal Custody and she has Joint Custody with him. He no longer has to pay child support, and they agreed to "reasonable parenting time" between the two of them. All I have to say is God is good that he answered the prayers of his people in working it out to where there was no fighting, arguing, bickering, or slandering one another, and the kids...well they weren't involved at all. Total God involvement here!

Hopefully after it's all said and done we can have a civil and maybe eventually friendly relationship with Stacey again. We know for the next couple of weeks or even months the adjustment will be difficult for everyone, but the good news is that the kids will get to see her anytime they want as long as she's well enough to see them. That's pretty much how it has been for the past couple of months.

So that is how God answered prayers and we give Him all the glory in how everything turned out, and we trusted that no matter what the outcome we'd praise Him. We are not gloating in victory of the final "judgment" but more-so in how it all came about. Peacefully actually.

Do Not Be Anxious About Anything...

2008-04-04T16:08:00.002-05:00

So as those of you reading this blog know Monday is our preliminary hearing for the modification of custody case.
Please be praying for us. It's not an easy thing, and there's a lot of tension. Our (chris & i) prayer is that we go expecting God's will. It's not about winning or losing, but about what is best for the kids. We are praying for Grace, peace, and mercy, and that no matter what the outcome we can be thankful to God that His will was done.

Chris is really nervous he doesn't do well under pressure on his own...BUT thank God he doesn't have to...God is with him, with us and with Stacey during this time. We are praying that it won't be too ugly, and that only facts will be given, no personal attacks or trying to go out of the way to make the other person look bad. It's not about character here. It's not about Us, it's about the kids. So anyhow....we really appreciate your prayers on Monday. Court is @ 10:00 AM.

We are anxious and I just needed to get this out there. I needed to say this outloud, even if that means typing it LOL. I feel better having done that, and after having read this passage:

Philippians 4:6-7
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

I'm not drinking Oprah's Kool Aid

2008-04-02T16:37:00.006-05:00

OK...so I've always been a fan of Oprah...not really for what she believes...but more for her shows you know, the people she has on there, etc...

However after watching this....my opinion has totally changed. I assumed she was a Christian talking about God some, and it seemed to line up w/the Bible. I have completely changed my mind....This video below spells it out. Very scary, and it's very new age and in the first video she even denounces Christ. She says there couldn't possibly be one way to get to God. when someone asks her about Jesus, she says "Jesus? What about him? It's not possible that there is just one way" She says there are many paths to what "we call God" But also that someone's loving, kindness and generousity bring them closer to their God. Anyhow there are collections of videos....Here ya go!

1 Timothy 4:1,16 (NLT)
1 Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons
16 Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.

Life Isn't That Bad, & We Always Have A Reason To Smile!

2008-04-01T15:17:00.004-05:00

Tuesday is one of our busier days.
The girls have their dance team practice @ 6:30 to 8:30. So I get off of work @ 5:00, usually go to Chris' house and make dinner, then rush off to practice all the way over on the East Side. Then @ 7:30 go to a meeting that lasts until 8:30, then head over and pick the kids up from dance, then head back to Chris' house. Once there I have to make sure all homework is done, baths are given, pajamas on, and ready for bed by 9:00. Then FINALLY I can sit down and rest :) What a happy time that is... ha ha! Tonight however, Rita is making supper so that is just beautiful! I love her dearly for that :) So I'll get to go over there, eat and then leave...that's 1 less thing I have to do tonight...and that's OK w/me!

So the title of this blog has to do with this: last night I got some rather troubling news and was so upset and broken up about it. I felt lost and scared and it totally sucked. I thought to myself "right now I don't know what I'm going to do." So I just said a quick silent prayer (in and from my heart) and guess what?!?! This morning, I found out that it was all taken care of, and I didn't have to worry about it at all. God is so good!!! Even when I'm not, He is so good to me!
I'm not sure how I can see Him work in so many ways around me and in me or my life and still be so arrogant, prideful or scared and not trust Him with my life.

I am a total chaotic mess sometimes, but even though I'm a mess God sees me as beautiful. He loves me no matter how much of a mess I am. I can't fathom that sometimes...however in that book The Shack....it gives an account similar to that and I have never grasped this concept to that degree. So awesome...You HAVE to read it....I'm still working on the review.

OK it's back to work I go.
Take care, be blessed, and go buy the book "The Shack"

Putt-Putt, BBQ & The Shack

2008-03-31T14:51:00.006-05:00

So it's Monday, and another weekend has come and gone. This weekend was kind of a blur, but it was a good weekend none the less. :) Chris' sister Ann and her family came home on Saturday to drop Emily off after her Spring Break trip w/them to Tampa, FL. She was really excited and had lots of stories about rides, the beach, Sea World, etc...She had some sun, and mostly had a red nose and cheeks, w/some sun poisoning on her lip -- that was probably the only negative thing she came home with! She was so excited! We are glad she's home because we missed her terribly!!!

Chris and I took Christina and her friend Olivia to Putt-Putt @ Bob Walther's. It was more of a Christina vs. Olivia and a Chris vs. Crystal match up. The final score was: Christina 49 // Olivia 51....and Chris 39 // Crystal 38. Needless to say it was close the whole time. Olivia claimed she was no good @ Putt Putt, however she got a couple of hole in 1's so we are pretty sure she was hustling us. LOL

Saturday night, Walt & Ann ordered Wolf's BBQ, and brought it to Chris' house. It was sooo good! (Thanks guys!!) and along w/that 2 of the best Pies I've had lately (Chocolate and Coconut). The kids, Ann and Frank & Rita watched "The Bee Movie" and Chris and I continued to read the book titled "The Shack".

Sunday was more of a lazy day. Chris wasn't feeling well so we didn't do much. I helped Rita clean her house and get it ready for Bible Study that night, and Chris played w/Maddie & Miles. She was so entertained, and it was so cute seeing them have Daddy/Maddie time!!!
Then we had Bible Study, then Chris and I finished reading "The Shack" . It is quite possibly the best book I've read in a really long time...maybe even ever. I am going to write a "review" of the book soon, and you can read all about how powerful the book is.

All in all it was a good weekend!!
Here comes another week...Please keep us in your prayers this week and next. The court date is approaching (April 7th) and tensions are high. We appreciate any and all prayers for everyone involved. We all have to rely on God, and let him be our wisdom and guidance and comfort.

Have a blessed day, and I'm sure I'll have something to say tomorrow! :)

Energizing!!!

2008-03-28T16:46:00.005-05:00

Emily will be home tomorrow sometime -- can't wait to see her and hear all about her trip to Florida!! It's our weekend to have the kiddos, and hopefully it won't rain all weekend long! I am going to try to convince the Nellis clan that card games/board games/games in general are NOT boring!!!! I usually end up playing solitaire! However 2 weekends ago I did get Chris and Emily and his mom and dad to play a game of B.S. or as we like to call it "Bologna". That was fun! We'll see if I'm successful this time in having them play games!

Today the sun came out just a little bit and I took advantage of it by walking on my break. I got my iPod, headed outside and started walking. I listened to a teaching called "The Anointing of Love" by Charlie Robinson. Never heard him speak before but it was energizing my spirit while the walk was energizing my body. That was by far my favorite part of the day.
I've been slowly but surely started on my trek to get into better shape. I'm not trying to be skinny or go on some crazy diet, I just want to be healthy. I could stand to lose a little, but that's not my goal in the end. I refuse to have a goal that means starving myself or working my body until I have absolutely no energy left. I will work hard, but not to the extreme! Of course getting into shape has a reward of losing weight...I'll just celebrate it and it'll further motivate me to go a little further on my journey! I mean what girl doesn't want to look in the mirror and say "Hey...I look good!!" The worlds standard of beauty just ticks me off anyhow. Size 2 does not = beauty. I've just gotten to the place where I'm feeling a little uncomfortable in my own skin, and my body is feeling the effects of not being in shape. I'm not getting any younger, and as I get older it'll all be harder, I want to include this habit into my life and make it my lifestyle ya know, just a part of my everyday routine. Chris and I have talked about getting the "Family Membership" @ the YMCA. It's only $57 a month for me him and the girls. That really is cheap and gives us yet another thing to have in common for family bonding time. Can't beat that.

OK well it's 4:57 PM and I'm am happy to report...it's time to go home. Have a blessed weekend!! I'll update how mine was on Monday.

Standing Up & The Shack

2008-03-27T14:25:00.006-05:00

Standing Up
It's a rainy gloomy day here in Evansville. I'm so over rain, and cold! :) Oh well...anyhow today Christina and her dance team stood up for what they believed in. They stood outside the Showplace East Theater and stood up for Life. Sometimes it amazes me at this generation coming up. They are proud to stand up for what they believe and they have such a zeal for God. They used the movie Horton Hears A Who as the reason for doing this @ the theater. I guess the reason they chose this movie is because of the slogan "A person is a person no matter how small" It was a civil, peaceful display of beliefs. They held signs that read "Horton is Pro-Life" and others, as well as red tape over their mouths that reads "LIFE". They went to watch the movie after they stood outside for 2 hours. I am amazed sometimes at how willing kids are to stand up for what they believe in. Regardless of your beliefs on the pro-life debate, I am proud of Christina for having the courage to stand up for what she believes.
If she got any pictures I'll post them later.
The Shack
I got an email article from the Elijah List today. It was about a book called The Shack. After reading what it was about, and what the reviews said about it, I knew I had to read it. I called the library as soon as they opened, and there was 1 copy left. I drove across town to get it on my lunch today, but I know it will be worth it. I plan on writing a review of the book after I read it, but I wanted to get this out there to share with you, in hopes that you will read it, and share it with those that you love. Chris and I are going to read it together and we've both promised each other we won't read it w/out the other! Please let me know if you'll be reading it, and if so what you think once you're done.

Here is the link of the website of the book: http://www.theshackbook.com/ .

Here is what is written on the back cover of the book:

Mackenzie Allen Philip's youngest daughter, Missy, has been abducted during a family vacation and evidence that she may have been brutally murdered is found in an abandoned shack deep in the Oregon wilderness. Four years later in the midst of his Great Sadness, Mack receives a suspicious note, apparently from God, inviting him back to that shack for a weekend.Against his better judgement he arrives at the shack on a wintry afternoon and walks back into his darkest nightmare. What he finds there will change Mack's world forever.
In a world where religion seems to grow increasingly irrelevant The Shack wrestles with the timeless question, "Where is God in a world so filled with unspeakable pain?" The answers Mack gets will astound you and perhaps transform you as much as it did him. You'll want everyone you know to read this book!

There are some reviews for the book on the website, but i found this one to be the most powerful:

“The Shack is a one of a kind invitation to journey to the very heart of God. Through my tears and cheers, I have been indeed transformed by the tender mercy with which William Paul Young opened the veil that too often separated me from God and from myself. With every page, the complicated do’s and don’t that distort a relationship into a religion were washed away as I understood Father, Son, and Holy Ghost for the first time in my life.” – Patrick M. Roddy, Emmy Award Winning Producer of ABC News

Rewind to Easter :)

2008-03-26T12:59:00.006-05:00

The kids were at their mom's house this Easter. They did get Easter baskets/presents from their Aunt Ann & Family. Madison loves her candy of course, and her 101 Dalmations DVD, and especially the light up rubber duckie for the bath! She also got a couple of sets of bubbles. All in all she was really excited about it. Christina got some shoes, a thing of candy and some money I think...and of course Emily got to go to Florida!!!
So Chris and I and his parents went out to eat for Easter. We went to the Olive Garden. I had the best dish there it's called the Fontina Chicken. It's sooo good. It's probably the best dish I've ever had there. Anyways...I just wanted to post a couple pics we took on Easter Sunday. I took them with our camera phone so the quality is a little not great, however the pictures are cute. Enjoy!

ALMOST Daily :)

2008-03-25T09:36:00.003-05:00

OK notice in my last post I said I'd update almost daily! Ha Ha. Even every couple days is an achievement for me. So anyways...back to the blogging!! :)

It's Tuesday and every part of me wishes it were Friday. I need a weekend, of course with kids you don't get a real "weekend" (sleeping in, being lazy and such), but ya know at least I don't have to work on top of it all right? ha ha I actually love my life...I love the "family" life. It feels so normal to me now, that when I'm not in that "mode" I feel almost lost. Sound weird? Well in my head it makes sense anyhow. They are my family now, without them my life doesn't really make sense anymore.
Chris is still working with Bob, its a little slow now, but we are hoping work will start up again as it gets warmer. He applied for the Youth Care Center here in Evansville, and we all prayed diligently over it, and all had such peace about it. So we waited and finally he got the call. The good news: They told him he's the man they want for the job..The bad news: They have a hiring freeze, and can't hire him right now. DOH! That totallly sucks!!! He was so disappointed, but like I told him, it wasn't a sorry we filled the position, it was a "hey, as soon as we get the green light we'll call you." God's timing I suppose, and how can we argue with that?
It's spring break week for the kiddos.
Emily is blessed to be on vacation with Chris' sister Ann and her family in Tampa, FL. She's going to Sea World, and museums, the beach, etc...I have no doubt she's having the time of her life, but we haven't been able to talk to her yet :( She's in good hands so we're not worried, we just miss her! She has her daddy's olive skin so I'm sure she'll be sporting a nice tan when she gets back.
Christina has been at her mom's house, and has been going to coffee houses to see Christian bands, going to movies, and hanging out with her friends. She's enjoying sleeping in and no homework!
Madison has been super funny the last couple of days. Yesterday me, Chris and Maddie took Miles for a walk, and Maddie had me laughing so hard. You know, the things kids say sometimes! She got me to laughing and then she started laughing and said "you're making me laugh so hard, I can't help it" and well that just made me and her daddy laugh even harder! She is so much fun!

Other updates: we have the court date coming up on April 7th. I'm hoping one day Stacey will see our heart in this, and not that we are trying to actually take the kids away. We just want there to be stability and consistency in their lives, until she is well we just feel this is the right thing to do for them. Anyhow, the court date is drawing near, and I'm feeling the heat of it, and the reality of it seems a little heavy, but God is in control and we trust him with the entire thing. We have to put it in his hands and be Ok no matter what the outcome. I'm not going to post much more about the court case, but if you have any questions you can send me a comment and I will answer any that you have via email or something not so "blog like" for all the world to see!

It's Not Just About Me...

2008-03-21T13:16:00.000-05:00

Hey...so I've decided to change the face of the blog well not just the face but what the blog is all about.....I think the name is catchy....but I'm biased of course. I've never been the most clever person but hey... :) So I'd like to introduce you the characters of this blog. You'll be hearing a lot about them:

1 Meredith (me) :

4 Nellis' (my heart) :

Chris

Christina

Emily

Madison

A Pug(Miles) & a Princess(Sophie):

So there you have it. This will now be a blog about all of us. Our extended family so to speak! :)

Stay tuned. I will try to leave a post of what's going on almost daily. Take Care!

Crystal = Slacker!!!!

2008-03-20T11:24:00.000-05:00

I am such a slacker!!!! Oh my goodness seriously...Was my last post really January 17th? Today is March 20th...I am truly a slacker. There is so much to update I just don't know if I even have enough time and/or space. So this is just going to be a "today" blog.

Today....it is sunny outside and makes me so happy. The rain has cleared, the clouds have parted and the light is shining through. That in itself is a word picture of what happens when you let God into your life. It's like you've been living in a rainy, stormy season and you don't even remember the last time you saw the sun! It's been miserable, cold, wet, and all around depressing. Then it happens...the storms calm. The rain stops, the clouds part and the light shines where once there was darkness and gloom. Its like you've been awakened from a long sleep! How cool is that?
But anyways....my other point is that I am feeling some Spring Fever coming on!!! Bring on the warmer weather! I'm ready to enjoy the outdoors, work on getting into shape and just being an active family with Chris, the girls and of course Miles...the wonder pug! :)

Everyone sing it with me..."I've got sunshine....on a cloudy day"

You're welcome...that song is now in your head! :)

SNOW!!!

2008-01-17T13:13:00.000-06:00

OK so last night I took Christina to Wal-Mart to get a rug for her newly renovated room @ Chris' house. I'll blog about that when I get the pics ready because Chris did such an amazing job on it. Anyhow, we walked into Wal-Mart @ about 6:45pm. It was a clear night, cold but clear. We walked out @ about 7:45 and we walked out into the biggest prettiest snow flakes ever!!! It was so pretty! We were so excited.

It kept that up for about 2 1/2 - 3 hours. We got about 1.5-2 inches total of snow. This morning it was pretty much melted off of the roads, but the snow was still on the ground. I took Miles out for the first time in the snow since he's been with me. He went running and romping thru the snow but he refused to really go to the bathroom (stubborn dog). But he loved running in it. Anyways....here is a picture of Miles in the snow...it's the best I could do with my cameraphone for the moment that he stood still.

Un-Events

2007-12-30T13:20:00.000-06:00

Hello and welcome to the ever so uneventful life of Crystal! :) Let's see Friday I worked, went to Chris' parents Bible Study for fellowship night. It was a night of worship, fellowship, and eating!
Saturday we took Miles to PetSmart to have his nails clipped. He was in doggie heaven sniffing around that place smelling where all the other million pets have trodded! He was all hyper and hastily walking everywhere he went. Emily got some Heelys (spelling?) the shoes w/the whells built in on the heel of the shoe....anyhow...she wore those and Miles pulled her around PetSmart. I do believe it was the highlight of both their nights. He could trot a little and she was skating. We then went to Cici's Pizza (cheap is what we like)...ate and then went back home and watched the Patriots vs. Giants...good close game if you missed it! Then we ended the night w/a game of Bible Quiz with the Host Emily Nellis. She had a TV tray as her podium, and her announcer voice on. Even demanded we use fake buzzers to answer questions! LOL Chris kicked my butt of course he's got me whooped when it comes to Bible Knowledge. Guess I need to read my Bible more often!
Today I'm working 8-6, then I'm heading back over to the Chris' parents Sunday Night Bible Study. They have a guest speaker David Alsobrook, so I'm looking forward to that.

Christina left for Kansas City on Thursday. She is going to IHOP (Internation House of Prayer) One Thing. It's supposed to be really awesome, and I can't wait to hear the awesome things God has done for her there! I'll update when she gets back!

So there you have it! My life is fairly uneventful. Sorry for the lack of excitement!! :) I think now I'm gong to go download a book off of the library's website and read the rest of my work day away.

Be Blessed and have an awesome New Years. Chris and I still don't know what we're doing, but hopefully something because the last 2 years, we haven't done anything at all. I mean we were togther but really didn't do anything. I want to DO something ya know?!?!

Another year older & maybe just a bit wiser

2007-12-27T16:10:00.000-06:00

Ok...so it's Dec. 27, which means in 5 days I will be 31. I will no longer be 30, I'll be IN my 30's. Where has time gone. Ya ever step back and think man how'd I get here? My life is so different than I had planned it to be. I think everyone has that idea of where their life would be at whatever age they are. I remember I had a whole schedule planned out: Go to college, graduate at 22 or 23. Meet the man of my dreams at around 24, get married at 25. Be married a year Then start having a family. Have 2 or 3 kids by the time I'm 30 and then be done and enjoy life. Somewhere in there I think I was going to work, or something like that. Of course when I got married I'd have the house, and maybe a dog. And let's not forget that I would live next door to my best friend Mandy and we would raise our kids together!!!
LOL How funny is that? I don't even have such organized goals in my day to day life right now.

So besides not even being realistic, or taking into account any of life's ups and downs....I didn't even know myself well enough to have any idea what kind of life I wanted. Oh the wisdom of a teenager!!!
Sometimes I think "did I miss something somewhere...how am I where I am at the age I am?" Of course, that's just my mind and my unrealistic teenager goals that I set messing with me. That's okay because bottom line, I am happier right now than I think I have ever been. I have found the love of my life. He has 3 beautiful girls who bring me joy every time they are around. My job isn't my favorite but I don't hate it. I am blessed!! Age really is just a number right?

I know I am getting older, and there are some things that I can feel in my body that remind me of such things...but mostly I still feel young. People say their 30's are some of the best years of their life...so I'll raise my glass to that and say alright 30's .....here I come!

Christmas has come and gone

2007-12-27T16:03:00.000-06:00

Has it really been 15 days since my last post! That's just awful. Not that anyone is awaiting such awesome things from my blog but still. I'm actually pretty sure I only have 2 people who read it anyhow! :)

I had a great Christmas. We spent Christmas Day at Chris' sister's house. There are 5 kids in Chris' family (including him) and counting his kids there are 10 grandkids. Yeah it's a big Christmas celebration, and I love it! We had an awesome dinner of deep fried turkey, honey baked ham, all the fixins, rib-eye sandwiches and finger foods. A little something for everybody! I love the holidays. Family, fun, laughter and love, with a whole lot of wrapping paper flying all about! What could be better? Well how about after all the fun died down we got in the hot tub. Chris and I shared it w/5 kiddos but hey it was still relaxing!
All in all it was a great Christmas Day. It's the perfect time to sit back and look at all that you have in your life. All you have to be thankful for, the people who make your life more enjoyable. The love of family and friends and the celebration of the birth of Christ our Savior.

I hope it was just as enjoyable for anyone else who reads this!

Christmas Time Already?!?!?!

2007-12-12T19:15:00.000-06:00

So I can't believe it's only a little less than TWO WEEKS until Christmas!!! Where has the time gone??? I won't be able to go to Vegas this year to see my family so that kinda sux. April sometimes flies in, but she isn't coming in either. But that's OK. Hopefully I'll be flying out to Vegas after the 1st of the year.

Anyhow...We are all doing well. It's a crazy busy time, but hello it's Christmas. I've got my tree up and being the procrastinator that I am....I haven't started shopping yet.....Oh let the good times roll!!!

Miles is such a sweet fun dog. We all love him. Chris has been gone for a week in St. Louis working and will be home tomorrow...YAY!!! I miss him...I hope you are all well!!

Be Blessed.

The Ultimate Gift!!!

2007-12-02T13:13:00.000-06:00

Ok so at church on Friday night, we were asked what Christmas means...to us and to God. So everyone gave their opinion and then Chris gave this awesome revelation/word picture. I had to share it.

Imagine God giving you a gift. The gift is actually The Holy Spirit. God has wrapped it. He has wrapped the gift (Holy Spirit) in flesh. (Jesus as a baby) So when Jesus was born, we were given the present, gift wrapped. The present wasn't actually opened until Jesus died on the cross. When he was opened on the cross, His bloodshed, his flesh (the wrapping) was opened. Even then the gift wasn't actually received. It wasn't until He rose from the dead, that the gift was actually given and received. (It was by Jesus resurrection that we can receive the Holy Spirit, and eternal life)...God's Gift!

That is a shortened down version, but we loved it...And many people who attended have been using that word picture to witness about the REAL Reason for the Season! The Ultimate Gift! So celebrate...and remember what awesome Gift you've been given!

Introducing Mr. Miles

2007-11-17T08:55:00.000-06:00

OK so I've talked about Miles the pug that has invaded my home and heart but I wanted to share some cute pictures with you. He's been so much fun, and all of us are in love w/the little guy already. Below we have Miles & Maddie napping, and car ride and of course my boys!!!

New Chapters

2007-11-14T19:54:00.000-06:00

You ever get that feeling that old chapters in your life are coming to an end, and new ones are beginning? I feel that. I'm actually excited about it...of course there are the standard nervousness, fear, and anxiety mixed with the anticipation....but still...I'm excited.

Alot of things will be changing in my life very soon. And by very soon I mean like days and weeks! Most of these things are scary. Like the fact that quitting my 2nd job means less money, but other things mean more responsibility. I will have more time, but even more to fill in it...These things are a little overwhelming...BUT still I am excited. Still that anticipation is there. I have peace in the calm of the storm...and well that can ONLY be God working in my life, in my circumstances, and in ME. How can you not be excited about that. I am ready for the new chapter to be written. I'm ready for the page to be turned.

Ya know....just when I think the roller coaster ride called life has slowed down, or all the drops are over there's always more. It's like you've been on the ride for a while. You haven't faced any sudden drops recently, and well you feel relaxed...loosen your grip on the bars...and enjoy the ride...It's then you come around a corner and there it is...the next drop...You get that feeling in the pit of your stomach. Initially it's fear, and your heart beat quickens...You stiffen up and hang on even tighter to the bars that are keeping you planted in your seat. The ones that ensure your safety as you fall. You squeeze even tighter as you come closer to the drop. Then your there, you start to go down the drop...and you hold on as tight as you can and you scream! It's once you get half way down the drop that you realize it wasn't so bad, it's almost over and once it's all said it done it was fun.

So I'm holding on tight...to my safety bars, My God, my rock....and I'm going to enjoy the ride...I might get scared, it might shake me to my core...but in the end....it's these things on the ride that make it fun...make it worthwhile.... see that: Yeah sometimes it's kinda like that!

What a weekend!

2007-11-13T19:44:00.000-06:00

So.....this weekend the pug that we are looking into getting came to my house. Poor thing was so nervous and scared when his foster mom and dad left him. I felt so bad for him. He sat at the door and just stared at it waiting for them to come back and get him. That was Thursday night.

By today (Tuesday) he is following me around everywhere I go. Playing with me and Chris and the girls. Napping with Maddie, tolerating my cat. He's starting to feel more comfortable and well he's making us very happy. The girls are beyone excited. Emily especially loves this dog. :) She is so worried about him all the time and wants to be around him all the time. It's cute.

He is so tolerant of Maddie too. He doesn't even act like he minds when she grabs his face and says "you're a cutie" and proceeds to lay a big ol' kiss on his face! LOL So cute.

I had a really great family-time filled weekend!!!!

Calmer of the Storm

2007-11-06T17:47:00.000-06:00

First of all thank you so much for praying for me/us (Jenny and Terah, and anyone else who read this and prayed)! Things are still crazy...BUT...I'm not near as stressed and overwhelmed as I was before. I am exhausted but hey...sleep will help with that...if I can find time to sleep..LOL God is in control and things are not completely better, but He is the calmer of the storm....and I can tell the storm has calmed!!! So thanks so much!!

Well some new things I can write about. I put in my two weeks notice today @ the library. I'll still be working my main job @ Cinergy, but will not be working my 2nd job. There are a lot of factors into why I am quitting at this very moment. I am getting a dog; I am so tired of working two jobs. I'm exhausted all the time and I have no time w/Chris and the kids or anyone/anything else for that matter and some other reasons that well....just know there are other reasons. :)
I am a little scared of losing the security of having the $$ from the second job, but I've sat down, and done the budget. It'll be tight for a while, but in April my student loan will be paid off and that will be excellent! I am willing to make the sacrifices in spending money if it means I'll be home more w/Chris and the girls, and just having time period!

Other than that...We can still use prayer. Chris is still looking for a job, and is actively seeking but hasn't had any call backs. We are trusting that God has something really great lined up for him but he still gets frustrated at times for not having a job ya know? I've been there so I totally understand. Anyhow...Umm yeah I'm so tired right now that I really feel like I could lay my head down on the desk here @ work and go to sleep. LOL

That's all for now....I hope you are well, and blessed and that God reveals himself to you in a new and refreshing way today. :)

I need to be taken away...by Calgon!!

2007-11-01T19:57:00.000-05:00

If you are a youngin' then you won't even understand the meaning of the name of this blog. But those of you who are old enough to remember the commercials "Calgon...Take Me Away!" That's what I'm talking about...This week has been just CRAZY!

Life itself isn't so bad...but have you ever felt like you're in the eye of a tornado...where everything around you is moving so fast...you just want it to slow down for one minute! I've had one of those weeks. There is a lot going on, but nothing God's not in control of. Now if I could REALLY apply that then I wouldn't be so stressed, and overwhelmed and tired and cranky. I just read my friend Terah's blog...maybe I need some "me" or "alone" time to just relax ... like she was talking about!

Anyhow, the countdown to when Miles (the pug) will be visiting my home is T-Minus 8 days. I'm so excited!!! The kids are too, especially Emily. I hope he doesn't get too scared or overwhelmed in a new place, esp with me and the cat and the kids. I guess that's a lot for a little guy like Miles, but I'm sure he'll do fine.

Ok well anyways...I will leave with this request. Please pray for me & Chris this weekend and next week. We could really use some covering and some peace. Life is just throwing us some curve balls lately, and just a lot of stuff going on that I don't really want to post for the whole world to see. God knows what's going on, so if you have a moment please lift us up. I so appreciate it, and I pray God blesses you!

If there's anything I can pray for you about, please comment me and let me know. If it's too personal to post on here you can email me. I believe in the power of prayer, and I believe that we all need to be covered in prayer at all times not just the bad!!

Be Blessed...

HIS love is like the ocean

2007-10-29T20:52:00.000-05:00

This is something old that I had written a while ago, and recently found. I had just driven my grandmother home from Indiana to Jacksonville, FL. It was late when we finally arrived, but while I was in Florida I HAD to see the beach. This is something I had written about my experience there at the beach.

I was walking along the beach wishing Chris was there with me. It seemed a waste to not have someone to share it with. I was wishing he was with me and that I wasn't alone. Then I realized, I wasn't alone, I'm never alone. So then my thoughts started drifting and I began to think about the similarities of the ocean and how it makes me feel, to how I see the ocean, and how I see God.

Immediately when I got to the beach and I was walking on the sand and could hear the ocean, everything in me wanted to just run, and be there as fast as I could be. The excitement, joy, and longing to just see it (if even for a minute). As soon as I saw it, immediately I felt peace, and relaxed, and just content and nothing around me mattered. Nothing I was thinking about mattered. All the things I had been worried about didn't matter. Now, don't laugh, the ocean really makes me feel this way. How does it compare to God? (to me) The Ocean is huge, so big that you can't possibly comprehend how big it is, how far it goes. It is calm and soothing, and inviting. I couldn't get close enough. Just seeing the Ocean wasn't enough for me. I needed to be there, to experience it. I was desperate to just to have the water brush against my feet, I needed it to TOUCH me, I needed to feel it. (This is how it is when I'm in God's presence...)

Another thing is how the ocean to some degree should be feared, (a healthy fear) not fear to get in the water, but to know how the ocean operates, the current, the tides, storms, etc….You can't be oblivious to all of this, and just swim. You have to obey the laws of the ocean to be safe. There are certain signs that will tell you when it's not safe, or buoys that tell you where to stay in order to be safe… In the same way the Word guides us. The Holy Spirit convicts, gives us discernment and Godly wisdom.

Finally, just how you know the ocean is there, you read about it, hear about it, see pictures of it, but until you are actually there at the ocean you just can't possibly know or explain how it really is. (Words all to often fall short of explaining such awesome things, such experiences). But God is there, and you've heard about him, read about him, even sung songs about him...but until you experience him for yourself...you'll never truly know.

The weekend is finally here

2007-10-27T14:53:00.001-05:00

I'm so happy it's the weekend!!

Last night I got together w/my group of girlfriends. It's a group of us that get together to celebrate each others' birthdays...this usually happens every 2 months or so. A normal birthday celebration consists of dinner @ a restaurant where we eat and exchange gifts, and then a movie. However since 2 of the girls have moved away, and we are all so busy we never see each other, we decided to get together at our friend Tara's house so we could just hang out and catch up. We made homemade pizzas, had some snacks and of course there was birthday cake from "Piece of Cake". Can you say YUM!! We then did the gift exchange, and after that we played Scene It: 80's Music Edition! It was a blast. Anyhow..it was a great girls' night out! It was great to see everyone (except Amy who is going to have her baby any day now!)

The only sucky thing about this weekend is I have to work today (Sat.) from 12p-6p @ the library. I know it's not a hard job, but I haven't seen Chris or the girls since Wednesday and I'm missing them terribly. BUT tonight I will get to see them when I get off of work. That will be awesome! I can't wait.

I did finally get my haircut this morning. I will post pics when I get one taken. :-) Other than that life is good, God is Great, and I am Blessed!

Oh The Message....

2007-10-23T19:33:00.000-05:00

I am reading in the Message Remix Bible, right now.
I love the Message bible...It's in conversational translation...at least to me. It's like sitting down w/friends and discussing it, but also versed in a way that really spells it out for me. Puts it in perspective. I was reading in Matthew 6:6-?:

And when you come before God, don't turn it into a theatrical production either. All these people making a regular show out of their prayers, hoping for stardom! Do you think God sits in a box seat?
Here's what I want you to do: Find a quiet, secluded place so you won't be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense His grace.

I wonder how many of us put on a show while we're in church but as soon as we hit the parking lot....show is over.. Back to Monday - Saturday life. -- I have been so guilty of this at times in my life -- God knows our hearts. He knows our motives. No need in pretending.

That made me think of this analogy, or word picture: Sweeping dust under the rug
We think we can just sweep the dust under the rug and pretend its not there. It's still there. You know it's there, but anyone who walks in would never know right? So we leave it. All clean...All better! It only looks clean, but under the surface it's still dirty.

I think that sometimes our relationship with God's kinda like that. The only difference is God always sees the dirt we sweep under our rugs. There is no hiding it from Him. Still we do it....I'm curious how many times have we lifted that rug to add more dirt to the pile. We can see all the other dirt, knowing we should clean it up...but it's easier just to sweep it under there, put the rug down and walk on.

I don't want to be that kind of Christian. I want a Spring Cleaning in my heart. Open the curtains, let the light of God in to reveal all of the dirt, and dust. To light my dark or dim places. I want Him to get the dirt from under my rugs, the cobwebs from the corners of my heart. I want the windows of my soul to be cleaned so I can see clearly. Fluff the pillows of my resting places so that I'll have peace and comfort. Open the windows and let the Breeze of the Lord fill these old dusty places...the fragrance of the Lord overtaking the musty smell. What a beautiful life-giving, cleansing transformation. What a beautiful home HE makes in ME!

Let it be Lord...Open these dusty caverns in me and renew them. Clean them, fill them with your Holy Spirit. Renew and Refresh Lord!!!

I'm not preaching, just blogging about what I'm feeling!

A Much Needed Update

2007-10-18T18:48:00.000-05:00

Well back in August I said I was going to update this blog instead of my myspace blog....Well OK so I haven't done that until now. So here is my 1st of many regular blogs. Enjoy! (also FYI -- I have a lot of older blogs on my myspace page, so you can go there for any previous postings!)

Can I just say that with Chris and his girls in my life, I feel so blessed? There is a lot going on in life right now and we're facing a lot of challenges. (Chris recently lost his job, so he's been actively looking for the past 3 weeks. HOWEVER...he is able to just help some people out with things, and they are paying him for his help so he has some money coming in, and he has some money in the bank so that's good. Also the girls' mom has been really sick recently, and so that's always hard on the kids especially) Sometimes it's hard to sit back and after all that's going on and say even despite all of this I am still thankful and blessed, but that's where I'm at right now! If I can ask....please pray for Chris' job situation. I'm really believing that God is going to open the door for the perfect job for him in this season of his life.

I am in the process of adopting a dog from a rescue organization. I am getting a Pug. I know...I know, you're either thinking "man those dogs are so ugly" or "aww they're so cute"...There's not usually an in-between. I however love them! I am going thru an organization called Kentuckiana Pugs, here is their website: http://www.kentuckianapugs.com/

I am going to meet a puggie on Sunday. His name is Miles and he is 2 1/2 yrs. old. He is precious. If all goes well, then we'll start the process and I may get to bring him home soon! I'm so excited and the girls are well...... ECSTATIC! Here is a pic of him:

A New Blog Begins

2007-08-28T20:35:00.000-05:00

So, as much as I love to blog on my myspace, I decided to do something a little different to see if I like it better. My space is getting a little crazy...and so I'm thinking of updating my blog on here rather than on myspace. So anyhow...I am playing around until I can get the hang of it.