The best is yet to come...

Baby Showers!

2011-12-09T18:38:00.001-08:00

We have been so blessed to have 3 baby showers and have gotten everything we need! Here are some pics!

Donna and I

Cynthia and I

Shower at work

Sunday School surprise shower!!

He is doing his job...

2011-12-09T10:08:00.000-08:00

He’s a man. Just like you. He breathes in and out, sleeps, eats, laughs and He comes home to his wife and children each day. They want to keep it that way. Point a gun at him and you take away a husband, father, son, brother, man.

When he pulls you over, HE’S DOING HIS JOB.

When he writes you a ticket, HE’S DOING HIS JOB.

When he pulls you out of a burning car on the side of the road where no one else can hear your cries, HE’S DOING HIS JOB.

When he risks his life to keep you safe, HE’S DOING HIS JOB.

When his wife lets him walk out the door every day, leaving his family to protect yours, HE’S DOING HIS JOB.

When he works overnight so you can sleep in safety, HE’S DOING HIS JOB.

When he crouches behind cars with an assault rifle looking for a madman, HE’S DOING HIS JOB.

When he pulls over your son for driving drunk, HE’S DOING HIS JOB (& keeping other people alive).

When he arrests you for drug use, HE’S DOING HIS JOB.

When he’s hunting you because you broke the law, HE’S DOING HIS JOB.

HE’S DOING HIS JOB

Thank a police officer for DOING HIS JOB today, because he might die for you tomorrow…

Gatlinburg weekend!

2011-09-28T15:36:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from Tennessee. It was such a fun week!

It's a GIRL!!

2011-09-28T15:30:00.000-07:00

We went to Gatlinburg with both of our families for the Bristol race. So we found out on Monday and had to keep it a secret until Thursday night! It was fun being the only ones who knew what the baby was! We couldn't believe that we were really having a girl. We were both prepared to hear the words boy! When she told us we just looked at the screen in disbelief. The tech was like...So yall are very quiet. I finally said...Are you sure? So she checked 3 more times! We are so exicted to say we are having a girl!!!

Baby Belly Pics!

2011-09-28T15:22:00.000-07:00

6 weeks

8 weeks

12 weeks

14 weeks

16 weeks

18 weeks

20 weeks

22 weeks

26 weeks

24 weeks

30 weeks

28 weeks

32 weeks

Happy Anniversary!

2011-09-16T15:40:00.000-07:00

Happy 5th Anniversary!

I can't believe it has already been 5 years! Where does the time go!? I am so thankful for a loving and godly man in my life. He is such a wonderful husband and is going to be a great daddy!

Noccalula Falls Camping Weekend!

2011-07-27T16:50:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Matthew and I went for a little camp out. I haven't been to Noccalula Falls since I was little. It was a nice get-away for a few days. It was a little hot, but it is the middle of July! We got there Thursday night and unpacked everything and then built a fire for smores! Friday morning we got up and cooked a big breakfast...biscuts, sausage, bacon, and hashbrowns! We relaxed the rest of the morning then ate lunch and headed to the park. We hiked down to the falls and walked around the petting zoo and rode the train. It was burning up! So we headed back to go swimming before supper. We had huge hamburgers!! It was so yummy!! Saturday morning we got up and cooked another huge breakfast. Then we just hung out and went swimming and played some cornhole. I didn't want to come back at all!! It was nice being with just us! We also came up with some baby names and talked about different parenting ways we like and don't like. Here are some few pics!

You are a masterpiece....

2011-06-15T15:18:00.000-07:00

"The Lord is wonderfully good to those who wait for Him and seek Him." Lamentations 3:25

I am still in awe of His goodness and His mercies. I am so thankful of all the many, many prayers that have been lifted to heaven these past two-ish years for our family. God is so good!!!! We will get to meet our little blessing and miracle in mid-January!!!
I do not want to take this time for granted and want to enjoy and be in every moment. We have so much to be thankful for every day!
I pray daily for a couple of special friends that are going through the same thing we have been through. It can seem that is is no light at the end, but there is, God is your light.
We cannot believe that in 7 short months our lives are going to be changed forever! I can't say it enough.....GOD IS SO GOOD!!!!

"You are a masterpiece, a new creation He has formed. And you're as soft and fresh as a snowy winter morn. And I'm so glad that God has given you to me. Little lamb of God, You are a masterpiece."

Easter and Mothers Day!

2011-05-20T17:36:00.000-07:00

This us with our mom...

Easter with Lillee and Ellee

Blessings

2011-05-20T15:22:00.000-07:00

This is a song that has touched my heart in so many ways. Please stop and take a moment to listen to these words.

Razin Kane

2011-05-17T17:40:00.000-07:00

Tommy had a concert at the Razin Kane May 5th. It was awsome!! We had such a fun night and there were tons of people there!!

Sailing through the storm...

2011-04-26T16:24:00.000-07:00

Lord, I am worn from the weather, the raging waves
that beat against the life i awaken to each day.
I know You are good, and You will never forsake,
but it is hard to see You working, in the waves great wake.
So to the Lord I will lift my voice, calling out in my time of need.
I cannot navigate this ship alone, so to You, o Lord, I give the lead.
Lord, hear my prayer, I cry out in distress,
The waves of the storm seem never to rest.
Yet I know You are the Master of the waves,
And into Your hands I commit my life this day.

"Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distesss. He stilled the storm to a wisper, the waves of the sea were hushed."
Psalm 107:28-29

His grace is greater...

2011-04-26T10:47:00.000-07:00

I have written this post many times and every time I read it back I re-upset myself. I have learned that my own strength cannot carry me through, God has to give me the stamina I need. I know God's plan is far greater than my own.
A week and a half ago it was time for us to take a pregnancy test. So I decided when I got off I would run by the store and pick up a test and take it the next morning. I was at work for about 2 hours and I started feeling crampy. But I pushed it off and tried not to think about it. About lunch time I went to the restroom and reality set in. I stayed in the bathroom and cried and prayed and asked why.Matthew brought me lunch and I sat and cried. People would ask me questions and I cried. Needless to say it was a miserable day. Each month for the past year it has been disappointing to get a negative, but this time was different. We had put so much more time and energy and money in, it was like a reality check. I know He was telling us that it didn't matter what all we had put into it, the miracle will come from Him. He is able to the impossible, we have to believe it!
So we are doing another IUI on Thursday. I have been trying extra hard to not worry about tomorrow and just live in His day every moment and be thankful for that. We are not promised tomorrow and I don't want to spend time worrying about things that I have no control over. He already knows what my future is and I have a peace in knowing He is in control!
"And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work." 2Corinthians 9:8
"Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be whole and complete, lacking nothing." James 1:2-4

Pondering thoughts...

2011-03-25T15:33:00.000-07:00

This past week I had my 2nd ultrasound for a follicle check. I go back on Monday for another and she said that I will probably get my hcg shot too. So this week we will be doing the IUI I am sure. I am so nervous, but very excited!

A sweet friend recommend a book for Matthew and I to read. It's called, Hannah's Hope. I am so thankful she shared with me about this book! I am only on the 3rd chapter but I feel like I have such a connection with Hannah! It's really amazing to think that a girl, two thousand years ago felt the same way I do today! I have learned that God had the desire to create new life. He created us in His own image, with many of his attributes, so it is no surprise that we have the same desire to create a new life! So how can it be selfish or wrong to want this? I know I don't deserve this and He doesn't owe me anything, not even an explanation of His choices. God sees the big picture from beginning to end. I can only see my little piece right now. I have struggled the most with jealousy. It seems every time I go to the store or get on facebook someone else is having a baby."A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones." Proverbs 14:30 When I read this I felt shameful for letting myself and the devil root so much jealousy and envy in my heart.I felt bad about asking why or how can a girl who is not even married have a baby. She doesn't even realize how much of a blessing it is! But God allows"unloved"women the gift/trial of pregnancy to demonstrate His love to them. Just as God may want to use my empty arms to bring me closer to Himself, god may challenge another woman i don't feel "deserves" a baby with such a gift so that He can ultimately remind her that He is still God. "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9

Announcing...

2011-03-09T15:49:00.000-08:00

Matthew's brother, Tommy Staggs, has announced that he is now a member of SSM Records, new country group, Demetree! They are working on there first album now and their first concert is March 31st at Silverado's in Nashville! So watch and listen for this new group! It's gonna be awsome!
We are so exicted for Tommy, Kelly, Will and Ella and what God has instore for them! He has worked so hard to get where he is!

I left feeling...

2011-03-09T15:30:00.000-08:00

Exicted...Overwhelmed...Nervous...That I hope I made the right decision...

I went back to see Dr. Malizia yesterday. We got all my blood work back and she started going over what to do next. She has given us 3 options. I am still going back and forth on two of them. We are going to do an IUI ( intrauterine insemination ) this month. We can only do 3 cycles of these though. But she did say it raises our chances 50%. I just hope we're on the right side of the 50%! Our insurance doesn't cover this procedure, but I know our God will provide for us financially and mentally that we are making the right decision. I quess I am going back and forth with this because I just want to make sure we do every little step possible before doing something really big! My other option was surgery. She would make sure everything is ok and fix it if it's not. Like endometriosis, she could take it off, or if a tube is blocked she would open it. But, it is elective and it's surgery! Another concern, Harold is having knee surgery next week so I will be the main surgery person to make sure everything is covered and running smoothly. I know as we get closer to ovulation we will be at the doctor every morning for at least 3 days. So I am just praying for peace and a knowing that His time will show through to where we will be able to do this. If that makes sense. We serve a mighty God and I am so excited to see what is to come!! We have some wonderful friends and family that are praying for us. I cannot begin to describe the peace and the love I have felt these past few months. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

Our trip to Nashville!

2011-03-09T15:11:00.000-08:00

For my birthday this year, Matthew got us tickets to see Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith at the Ryman in Nashville. I love and grew us listening to both of them so it was so great to see them together!! It was a awesome concert!

We left on Monday after our doctors appointment and got there around 4. We had dinner with Tommy, Kelly, Will and Ella at a BBQ place called Judge Beans BBQ. It was featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. It was sooo good! Tuesday morning we got up and had breakfast a Pancake Pantry in downtown and just walked around. I think we went to 20 boot stores! We say 3 doors down shooting a music video in one of the ally ways. It was pretty neat to stand there and watch! We went to the Charlie Daniels Museum and stopped by Tootsies. We then headed to historic Franklin. It was such a beautiful day to walk around and see the sights. The concert started at 7:30 and I had made dinner reservations at Union Station.

Wednesday we checked out and headed to the Grand Ole Opry. We walked around the hotel and got some ice cream. The mall still isn't open so we went to the bass pro shop. Can't pass that up! Above is a picture of us at the hotel.

There were Elvis' everywhere in Nashville! I got my picture made with at least 4!

Before we left to go on our trip we went to our first doctors appointment at Alabama Fertility Specialist. We saw Dr. Malizia. She is so nice and listens to our concerns and takes her time. We left there feeling excited to see what the next step is!

SUYL...Things I make!

2011-02-25T14:49:00.000-08:00

I have recently opened a shop on Etsy. It's called HopefulLove Boutique. Here is the link...
http//www.etsy.com/shop/juicyhot

I have only a few things right now. But check back in about a week and I will have more added. I am still in the process of making things now. Feel free to let me know if there is a certain holiday or patteren you would like. I will be happy to make it for you!

I will ship for free if you let me know you saw me on Kelly's Korner!

If you want to look a few post down on my blog I have written why I have started doing this and there are a few pictures to look at also! I hope you enjoy looking around!!

Happy Birthday Eve!!

2011-02-15T15:45:00.000-08:00

This past weekend we went on a short trip to Gatlinburg with my parents. It was so much fun and we were so glad to get away. We ate at lots of yummy places, like the Pancake Pantry. It is on of our favorites to go to.

We went to the mountains and had lots of snow ball fights! It was so much fun and people thought we were crazy I am sure!

Yesterday, for Valentines day, Matthew took me to work. Then he washed my car for me and picked me up. He told me to get ready when we got home. He said my mom was cooking dinner and we were going over there. It was such a nice surprise to see Steven, Ryan, Reba and Katie come over to celebrate! This is my last year in my twenties and I am a little sad. I don't know why, I never thought I could be so glad to be where I am at today. Even though Matthew and I are going through some struggles trying to have a baby, our relationship has gotten stronger each day and for that I am very thankful! Matthew got me a strawberry cake from Edgars. The top is from the fair this year...Monkey's Riding Dogs!! I loved it!!

I also got our quilt yesterday too! It is all the pieces of fabric people signed a little note to at our wedding. So, almost 5 years later...I finally got my quilt made!! I love it and it was a great surprise!!

I have started my Etsy site and have a couple of items on it. It's just table runners right now, but I've got more things in the works. I named it HopefulLove Boutique. Hopeful that one day we will have a child and we will love this precious miracle and we know that God loves us so much that he want everything to be according to His plan...Perfect!! The money we get for these will go toward helping pay for any infertility treatments our insurance is not going to cover. We know God will provide for us and we want to use these as a testimony of our faith.

It has been almost 2 years since we've started "trying" to have a baby. When I look back I wonder, how in the world did we make it this far?! But I know how...it's because we serve a great and mighty God!! We go to a new doctor on Monday and I am a little nervous. I don't know why, we've been doing fertility treatments for a year now so I am used to getting blood taken every month and hearing the good or bad news from the month before. I think I am nervous because I feel like we are starting over. Hopefully once we talk to the doctor and tell her our concerns I will feel much better. After our appointment we are leaving to go to Nashville. So it will be good to not have to deal with questions or anything for a couple of days. I don't mind talking about it anymore, it's just the first couple of days I don't want to talk about it. That may not make sense but it does to me. Matthew and I are spending every moment we can together as a couple because we know one day it will be hard to do that!

We have so many friends we are praying for and and family that is struggling with different issues right now. Its so hard to remember all of them so I am going to start a prayer gates page to where you can post things you want others to pray for and vice versa. But for now if you want to just write a comment on here or email me I would be happy to pray for whatever! We all need prayer every single day! Through the past couple of years we have had so many people praying for us and I know that is how we made it through, so I feel lead to be prayerful for others.

Where to start...

2011-02-02T15:27:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!

Everytime I sit down to write about something I get distracted and before I know it, it's time for bed or I've fallen asleep on the couch! Soooo...we've had so much going on that I don't know where to start!

I can't believe it's already February! Even more shocking...I can't believe I am fixing to be 29!! We have a little get away planned next weekend to gatlinburg with my parents and then we are going to nashville the next week to see Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith at the Ryman!! So these are sorta birthday/valentines day vacays!

We have also taken a new step in trying to have a baby. We will be seeing a infertility doctor on Feb. 21st. I am exicted and scared all at the same time! I got our packet in the mail telling us what to expect and I've been doing some research on IVF. I am trying not to worry about it because God knows our needs and what is best for us. One day at work, I had an amazing realization. I know it was God-sent! I am going to be starting a small business on the side to help with the cost of all the doctor visits and whatever else we may have to do. It's going to be called "Hopeful Love Boutique". I am making table runners, placemats, napkins, ribbon blankets and whatever else ideas I come up with. I have made a couple of table runners already. I am going to put them on ETSY. I am so thankful that God is allowing me to share our story and help others through all this. It is complicated to put into words on here, but God is so amazing!!

Here is picture of one of the table runners I've made.

Matthew and I had an opportunity at church to share our testimony on stewardship. I really didn't want to do it at first because I hate talking in front of alot of people. But God calls us to step out of our comfort zone and do something we normally wouldn't do. I am so glad we did!! It's so amazing how God has used us to bless so many and they have blessed our lives as well. Like I said though, it's too complicated to put into words on here, but I will never forget it!

"Happy are the people who know the joyful shout; Lord, they walk in the light of Your presence." Psalm 89:15

Tommy, Kelly, Will and Ella came down for a short visit a couple of weeks ago. Kelly and Will went to Auburn for the campionship celebration so Matthew, Tommy, Ella, Reba and I hung out for the day...

A Review of 2010...

2010-12-31T11:37:00.000-08:00

This year has probably been the hardest year since Matthew and I have been married. But there have been lots of times too!

In January, we started out the year loosing a very special person, Danny Green. I was so worried about Reba, Katie and Taylor. But God answers prayers and our family is stronger and closer than it ever has been! We also learned that there was going to be a new Staggs family member, Tommy and Kelly's little girl, Ella Grace. Matthew and I decided that after 8 months of trying to have a baby, we were going to start taking fertility meds.

In February, it's my birthday month. So we went on our annual Gatlinburg trip. It was so much fun and it poured snow! We also went to visit Tommy and Kelly in Nashville. We went to a Preditors Game and hung out.

In March, it's Matthew's birthday month. We also started a new study in sunday school, The Love Dare. It is the most meaningful and awsome study we have ever done! Our marriage has grown everyday since! We also did D-NOW with our youth group. We housed eight 10th and 11th grade girls for the weekend! It was soooo much fun and we learned alot about ourselves and the girls!

In April, we went to Talladega with my parents. It was also Easter. We celebrated it with our families!

In May, we went to Perry Mtn. for a 24 hour dirt bike race. One of Danny's friends raced for him. It was a really cool experience! We had a graduation party for Katie. We swam, cooked out and I got to meet alot of her friends. We got to see her graduate, which we are so proud of her!

In June, we spent alot of time on the lake and fishing. I love summer months! We also went to lots of Baron's games!

In July, we had a baby shower for Ella Grace. We had our familes over for a 4th of July party. We celebrated my parents, bother and sister-in- law's birthdays. Dorie and I drove to Atlanta for Kristen's baby shower. Which was lots of fun too!

In August, we added to new animals to our house, Jeb and Leola, the rabbits! We went to the fair and ate lots of cotton candy! We also went with our families to Bristol. We spent a couple of days in Gatlinburg before the race. It was alot of fun to be in 1 house with our familes! Matthew and I also started house hunting with Reba to find her a place closer to her family. We also added a family member, Ella Grace!

In September, we celebrated our 4 year wedding anniversary. We went to St. Augustine, FL. We had such a wonderful time!! It was one of the best trips we have been on since we've been married!!

In October, we went camping with 3 other familes who have been close family friends. It was so much fun and we can't wait to do it again next year! Reba bought a house in Alabaster, so we helped move her and help her say goodbye to Moody. It was very bittersweet!

In November, we went to Talladega for the fall race. We hung out with some long time friends, Ben and Heather. It was cold, but alot of fun!! We celebrated Thanksgiving with our families. We also went to an Alabama game. It was FREEZING!!!

Finally in December, it was a month of celebrating with family and friends, lots of shopping and decorating! Tommy, Kelly, Will and Ella and Pete stayed with us the week of Christmas. Even though I had the flu, we still had lots of fun! We also added a new member to our family, Ellee Mae. She is the sweetest puppy and I was sooo surprised when Matthew and his mom came in the door with her!

Our God has done some amazing things in our lives this year! I am exicted to see what 2011 holds for us. One thing will not change, though, is the love of our Father and the love for each other. We know there will be struggles, but we have to keep the faith and keep on praying! We are not sure what step to take next, but we will just keep asking and waiting.

The Giver and the Gift

2010-12-22T19:50:00.001-08:00

Three men and a star in the sky,

Oh what I'd give for a wisdom so bright.

One girl with a journey to make,

Oh how I wish I was that brave.

Fearless, shameless, faith through the dark,

How I wish I was as strong as they are.

A child far away born in the night,

Too young to know what is meant for his life.

But he'll grow and he'll love more than anyone can,

And the world's gonna see a light where he stands.

Christmas eve, all I see is snow on the trees,

And it's white and it glows, that's how I want to be.

And He says, Come to me, wait no more.

I give you all you're asking for.

Forget the lies this world has told,

I'll wrap your life in red and gold.

I'm more than just only one night that's holy.

I'm your star and I'm your wish,

Cause I am both the giver and the gift.

Merry Christmas!

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The Gift

2010-12-05T05:05:00.001-08:00

Winter snow is falling down,

Children laughing all around.

Lights are turning on like a fairy-tale come true.

Sitting by the fire we made,

You're the answer when I prayed,

I would find someone, and baby I found you!

And all I want is to hold you forever.

All I need is you more everyday.

You saved my heart from being broken apart.

You gave your love away,

And I'm thankful everyday for the gift!

Watching as you softly sleep,

What I'd give if I could keep just this moment,

If only time stood still.

But the colors fade away,

And the years will make us grey,

But baby in my eyes,

You'll still be beautiful!

I am so exicted that we get to hear Jim Brickman again this year! He is my favorite panist! We have seen him for te past 5 years and his music never gets old! His songs were the majority of our wedding music! I don't want to work tomorrow, but itKs one day closer to seeing Jimmy! (Thats my name for him ;-) ) Well it's about time to get up and get ready for church.

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The gift goes on...

2010-12-02T17:29:00.000-08:00

The Father gave the Son,

The Son gave the Spirit,

The Spirit gives us life,

So we can give the Gift of life,

And the gift goes on.

Don't you love to get a present,

wrapped up in a Christmas bow.

God gave each of us a present,

On that night so long ago.

It's a gift that keeps on giving,

If our spirits can receive.

It's the secret joy of living,

If our hearts will just believe.

And the gift goes on.

When your life is full of Christmas,

Then your life is full of love.

You can give away the present,

That began with God above.

Just like ripples in the water,

The circles of our love extend.

What was started with the Father,

Is a gift that has no end!

And the gift goes on.

I've got peace like a river...

2010-12-02T17:01:00.001-08:00

So many people have told me these past couple of days that they are praying for me and us. I am sooo blessed and thankful for all the prayers! It make such a differance! Today I had my HSG. I NEVER want to do that again!! But it's all for a wonderful cause! Anyways, I was sitting here thinking about everything I was told today. At first I was worried and concerned because we couldn't see one side. But she told me that it could be open we just couldn't see it. Then it hit me, it doesn't matter what the doctor saw and told me, NOTHING is impossible with God! I know I have said this alot, but I am so glad that He loves me and wants the BEST for us! We will find out on Christmas Eve if we are pregnant or not. I can just imagine how Christmas day will be if we are. But I know if we aren't then God has a much more awesomer (new word!) timing! I have given all to Him...sometimes it's hard not to think about or worry about. I am very thankful that I have not been told that we cannot have babies like so many girls have been told before. We are so blessed to have this opportunity to even think about having a baby! So, this is the last post about all this stuff until the new year! I love going back and reading everything since we've started this journey...we have grown and have become such a stronger couple... and for that I am most thankful!!

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas!!

2010-12-01T16:22:00.000-08:00

This past weekend we decorated our house for christmas. We're not done with the out side yet...it was too cold! So here is a small preview!

I love my wrapping paper this year!!

This is our new ornament for our tree this year! I try to get one new ornament every year.

This is the wreath I made this year!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

2010-12-01T16:18:00.000-08:00

We have soooo much to be thankful for every single day!!

It's the small answers....

2010-11-15T17:26:00.000-08:00

THAT MAKE A HUGE DIFFERENCE!!

Today my OB/GYN called me about my labs. Even though it wasn't the greatest answer, we know what we have to do next. So with that being said...Matthew did his test today and we will see what that tells us tomorrow. If it's not good we go see a urologist. I have to go have an HSG next month. I am nervous about this but I know it will all be okay! I have learned soooo much about my Heavenly Father these past months. I know if we were not going through this I would miss all His blessings!! I know that what God has in store for us is so much greater than we can imagine! And that makes me so excited!!

All we can ask is that you keep us in your prayers...Prayers for peace and patience. Love and understanding.
We also ask that you pray for our niece, Ella. She is having some GI problems and is seeing the doctor a week from today. Pray for clear answers for Tommy and Kelly!

I cannot wait to put up my Christmas decorations!! The radio is already playing Christmas music. But I will have to wait probably another week or so...BOO!

Oh I almost forgot! Matthew's truck died a few months back. Sooooo, we went looking at other vehicles. Matthew found a 2003 Mustang GT in Harpersville on craigs list. We went and drove it and made and offer. We both love it! It's a perfect weekend car!

Well that's all that's been going on these past few weeks....Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!!!!

Thankful...

2010-11-10T15:57:00.000-08:00

things i am thankful for...

1. That I serve a mighty God! He loves me when I am unlovable. He is patient and is always
near to listen to me even though He already knows!
2. I can see and hear all the beautiful, wonderful things on this earth and enjoying every
season.
3. My family. He has given me such wonderful parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins,
nieces and nephews.
4. My husband. He is my stronghold and I don't know what I would do without him! He is a
wonderful man of God. God has truly blessed me with this one!
5. A house to cover our heads and to make precious memories in.
6. Our jobs. Even though some days are stressful for both of us, I wouldn't trade it!
7. For my freedom. So many have given their lives for me and I am so thankful!!
8. My church family. They have been a great support group and wonderful prayer warriors!
9. Our sunday school class. God has brought all of us togather to help each other in good and
bad times...it's awsome!!
10. For hot showers on cold mornings, heat and air conditioning, water and light!
11. Good friends! Even if we don't get to talk to each other everyday or even week, we seem
to pick up where we left off!
12. Vacations with our families.
13. A car to drive.
14. The freedom to worship and praise God wherever and whenever I want!
15. Great co-workers.
16. Life experiences. Good and bad ones...they have made who I am today.
17. That I learn something new everyday!
18. Good southern cooking!
19. Lillee...she brings so much laughter and joy to our lives. If I am having a bad day I can come home and she does such funny and sweet things!
20. My salvation!

Pumpkins!!

2010-10-26T05:36:00.003-07:00

Yep! It's my favorite time of the year...carving pumpkins and then roasting the seeds! They are very yummy and good for you too. Here is what i did and it's very simple....

   1. Dry the pumpkin seeds for a day or so on a towel.

   2. Put all the pumpkin seeds in a large bowl and drizzle EVOO

over them and toss to coat all the seeds.

   3. Get your favorite seasonings. I used some Paula Deen house seasoning and Tony Chares (i don't think that's spelled right). Toss to coat.

   4. Heat oven to 350 degrees.

   5. Place seeds on a cookie sheet and put in oven for 10 min. After 10 minutes take out and stir them around then flatten them out again. Put back in for 10 more minutes. Take out and stir them again and put them back in for 10 more minutes. This time you need to watch them so they don't burn.

ENJOY!!

Guess who has arrived!!!

2010-09-08T15:54:00.000-07:00

ELLA GRACE STAGGS

Ella Grace made her entrance August 30 at 2:18 p.m. She was 9lbs 7oz.

We are so exicted to have Miss Ella in our family!

God's promises...

2010-08-15T18:31:00.000-07:00

I want to remember different promises from God that are in the bible. Sometimes I forget that I serve a Almighty, All-knowing God.
The Greatest Promise in the Bible...Philippians 4:19
"And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory
in Jesus Christ."
A quote that was told to me today is:
If I do not ACQUIRE it from God, then I do not REQUIRE it.

So, with that being said...I haven't updated in a while. Kelly still has not had Ella yet. Hopefully this week or next! I can't wait to meet that sweet girl!!
My 10 year high school reunion was last night...It was pretty fun and interesting. Everyone looks the same...just older! I'm glad I went. I was only 50/50 on going because Matthew could not go and I didn't want to go by myself. But Russell, Dorie's husband, could not go either so we went together!
Today is Steven and Ryan's 1st anniversary. I cooked lunch today and everyone came over to eat after church. Then we played the Wii for a couple of hours. It was really fun!!
We leave for Bristol on Thursday..so only a 3 day work week!! I am soooo excited about going!!
Well...that's about all for now!

Getting ready...

2010-06-28T18:08:00.000-07:00

Getting ready for what you might ask....Well next month I have 3 baby showers!! The first one I am hosting for Kelly, my sister in law, then it's Shelley's at work and last is Kristen's in Georgia!! I am having so much fun making things for Will (Ella's big brother) and Ella and cannot wait for Kelly's shower!! Here are some things I have done...

Here is the planter I painted along with the ladybug and frog for Will!!
Here are the invites and a ladybug to put in the planter that I made! I think they turned out so adorable!!

And here are the party favors! It's a flower pot I painted a pink flower on it and put seeds inside!

Ok...on another note...My parents have been out of town for a week. We are keeping their dog, Lucy. She is also a mini weenie dog....except not so much of the mini part. She is very meaty!! I am not sure who is more exicted to see my parents...me or her! Don't get me wrong, she is the sweetest dog, but I am a little tired of her!

This is the only way I could get them to not chase each other around the house...give them a bone!!

Well, that's what I have been up to this past week. Holler till next time!

I love this song...

2010-06-20T17:17:00.001-07:00

Imagine how God can sing
How His voice delights the universe
With a range that blends eternally
Into chords of His love

Imagine how God can dance
Moving gracefully up to our hearts
To invite us to be intimate
And share in His joy

Then imagine how God must feel
If we move back away from Him
To design our own destinies
Shaping lives of desiring and fear

Then imagine God's happiness
When a wanderer cries out to Him
For the peace that only He can give
For the strength He grants to truly live
And when the choice is made to look to Him
And finally draw near

It's been a while...

2010-06-19T17:46:00.000-07:00

Well....I'm not very good at this blogging thing...obviously!! I'm going to try and start doing it once a week...we'll see!
What can I catch up on??! We've started a patio out in the backyard and we're getting some prices on pools! I am very excited about that! Next we're going to start on the landscaping in the front. We pulled up all the bushes and we're going to start over. We've got almost everything changed out inside the house that we want.
We've got our Bristol tickets (well Kelly has them actually) and we've got the condo rented! I am soooo excited now. We're staying in Severville, TN and driving up to Bristol Saturday morning since it's a night race. It is going to be so much fun!!
In September, Matthew and I are going to St. Augustine, FL. We've never been there and since there is oil in the gulf we decided to go the opposite way. It should be fun!
We're still working on baby. I am still on the clomid and all that junk. My headaches have gotten better and I am sooo glad about that! We know everything is in God's timing. When we do get pregnant it will be perfect! But I still can't wait!!
I am enjoying working 5 days a week still. Hopefully there will be some changes in Matthew's department....hopefully...
So anyways...that's what has been going on these past couple of months!

Philippians 4:6-7

2010-02-14T14:37:00.000-08:00

"Don't worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be make known to God. Ant eh peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

You've got me...

2010-02-14T14:25:00.000-08:00

One day you've got me laughing and one day you've got me crying.
One day you've got me thinking I'm going out of my mind.
But one thing is true, the one thing that never changes is that you've always got me.
You've always got me by your side, every single day of my life.
There is one thing you can know for certain is that you've always got me.
On a Monday, on a Tuesday, on a Wednesday.
All the way around 'til Sunday.
You've always got me on the good days and the bad days and the mad days, the happy and the sad days.
You've got me every day of my life!

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY AND EVERYDAY!!

Breathe on me

2010-01-31T16:28:00.000-08:00

Breathe on me breath of God,
Bring my life close to your spirit.
Beat in me heart of God,
My soul's in prayer to be near it.
Focus my eyes to only see what's you and breathe on me.
Surround me in Your glory,
make Your presence known,
set the path of grace before me
Let your breath become my own.

I hate you headaches!!

2010-01-31T16:17:00.000-08:00

Well, as you can see my headaches have returned. A couple of years ago I started taking topamax so I would not have headaches everyday. I weined myself off of them about a year ago. Now, for the past couple of weeks I have had a headaches for 2 and 3 days. Hopefully it's just my hormones changing from all the medicine I'm taking. But it sure is annoying because I'm just not myself and have no motivation. I know Matthew is tired of me saying my head hurts ALL the time! But he has been a great help!
I don't know the memory verse for this week. I even forgot my bible for church this morning. I'm just not all here. I surely hope this week things will get better.
For an update on Chloe Seagraves...Our sunday school class went to visit them this morning at UAB. I didn't go...headache!! Any ways, she had heart surgery on friday and she is getting stronger everyday! Jami and Chris are such strong parents!! Just please keep on praying for comfort and strength everyday. Chloes' breathing is a little labored so they are going to keep her in CICU for another night. Then hopefully they will get to move her to a regular room tomorrow. That way Jami and Chris will be able to stay with her.
God is good all the time...All the time God is good!!!

Prayers...

2010-01-24T18:11:00.000-08:00

Our sunday school class has a new member. Her name is Chloe. Chis and Jami had her on Thursday afternoon. They were getting ready to take her home saturday but some test came back that were not what they were expecting. Baby Chloe has a tiny hole in her heart and has a narrow aorta. They took her to UAB and she is in the NICU. They are watching her to see if anything changes. I know God is watching over her, Jami and Chris. God is the great physician and he will heal her. Just pray for peace and comfort.

You love me...

2010-01-24T18:03:00.000-08:00

Your eyes look throughout the distant stars, taking in everything in galazies so far. Yet on one crowded planet circling one certain sun, of the billions here I am only one. Yet, you see me.
Your ears take in each day's deafining roar. The screams, the machines, rockets, radios and more. Words of each man and woman, prayers of each boy and girl. Every cry and curse, still somehow in the world You hear me.
Before a word is on my tongue you've seen it birthed within my heart. You even understand my reasons, for you've searched my deepest parts and You know me.
That's why Father God I stand amazed. For you know me so well, yet I'm lavished with Your grace. You forgive all my sin, even call me your child. I'm forever Yours, for I can't deny. You love me, You see me, You hear me, You know me, You love me.

What a wonderful, patient God I serve!

Weekly Memory verse...week 2!

2010-01-17T14:45:00.000-08:00

This year I am challenging myself to memorize a verse each week.

"This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth; you are to recite it day and night so that you may carfully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do."
Joshua 1:8

God is in control...

2010-01-16T10:05:00.000-08:00

Our family lost a very special person on January 2nd. But through the sad times, we all know Danny is healed and praising and worshiping his wonderful Father in heaven! He will always hold a special place in our hearts.
But when one life ends another begins...Kelly (my sister-in-law) found out she's pregnant 2 days after Dannys' death. God's timing is perfect. We are so exicted to be having another little neice or nephew!!
Matthew and I cannot wait to be sharing in the same experience. As I said...God's timing is perfect and what a blessing that is. I will go next week to have some fertility testing done...then probably I will have to have an MRI on my head. I have a microademoma on my pituitary and just want to make sure it's all okay before we get pregnant. I am very scared though that with hormone changes it might grow...and then possibly surgery...very scarry!
God is in control and so is His timing!!

Weekly memory verse...week 1!!

2010-01-10T14:49:00.000-08:00

"I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me." Phill. 4:13

Such a long time....

2009-11-21T12:24:00.001-08:00

I know it's been a very, very long time...but we just now got the computer desk set up. It was sitting in the floor in the den and I can't sit in the floor very long or my back starts hurting...so that's why I haven't blogged!
Anyways...I've just finnished decorating for christmas. It was so much fun because we have not gotten to use all our chrismas decorations in the past because they wouldn't all fit in the trailer! I'll put a couple of pics up later.
And yes, we are still unpacking from the move. We've almost got all the boxes unpacked...but it's a work in progress. We are enjoying living here very much. We see deer in our backyard almost every afternoon and morning. I love it! Mrs. Byrd has helped me out with some decorations. She is such a blessing to us!
In other news, I've moved to Monday-Friday 7-3:30 at work. I'm loving it so far. Matthew is still at Calera and he is still loving that!
Well....That's all I can think of right now. I promise it won't be almost a year before I post again...we've got a busy month ahead so I'm sure I'll have something to post soon!

Pleased to announce...

2009-01-31T14:29:00.000-08:00

That we are now homeowners!! Now it's time to get to work. We want to paint everything before we move in and we are tentatively scheduling the 1st weekend in February to move. Now it's on to the fun stuff like looking at furniture and house hold items we haven't got to really look at since we've been married!! It's like, being married all over again. Some of our gifts from our wedding we finally get to use and pull out of the boxes! So exciting!

One Life

2009-01-22T10:16:00.000-08:00

If there's a way of making time stand still for good, I haven't found it yet.
If I could love you for eternity I would, But I regret.
I've only got on life, I've only got one life,
And one lifetime's just not long enough to live.
I've only got one heart, I've only got one heart,
And I wish I had a hundred more to give.
There's so little time and so much I wanna do,
But I've only got one life to love someone like you.
Can't take my eyes off you, I'm afraid of what I'll miss, It goes by so fast.
So I'll treat each moment that I've been blessed with you, Like it's the last.
And I've only got one life and I give it all to you.

Things to come...

2009-01-18T16:22:00.000-08:00

Well, most of you know, Matthew and I have been married now for a little over 2 years. God has blessed us with so much! Before we got married we didn't know where we were going to live. So, Ronnie and Ann Byrd let us move into her late father's trailer. Well, we are closing on our first house January 30th! It's very sad but yet so exicting. I'm sad to be leaving this place where there were so many memories. But I am very exicted to be starting a new road in our lives!! Here is a picture of our soon to be home.

We also have, what we call our children, Chillee, Millee and Lillee!

MILLEE LILLEE CHILLEE

We are very exicted and yes, stressed, but in the end it's all worth it!

2009-01-12T13:31:00.000-08:00

Simple little notes to keep up with our simple little lives...