Sleigh Bells Ring...

OK, so no sleigh bells were ringing at the Morse Residence yesterday, but the snow was definitely in attendance! For the first time in my life, I had a white Christmas at home...What a blessing! I spent a Christmas in Connecticut when I was about 8 and it snowed, but never here at home. I felt just like a kid. We woke both of our children up with the news....even the unaffected college student was a little excited! Anna Lauren was on top of the world. I know for all my Northern friends who are reading this, y'all are thinking..."Big deal"...well, for a deep South gal it was!

For some reason, this Christmas was so calm...I was happy with all of my purchases! I was happy with the food! I was happy with the noise! I was just plain happy! I usually get all worked up over stuff, but for whatever reason, I didn't this year...and it was nice!

For many years our tradition has been to get together at our house Christmas Eve...eat finger foods...then the grandmothers spend the night and we wake up Christmas morning...open gifts...then Brent cooks breakfast for the whole family! This year we had several new guests including Brent's Aunt Ann and her husband, Carl...My Uncle Johnny...Brent's Aunt Carolyn from Dallas! All total we had 15 people!

We cooked 32 eggs...2 dozen biscuits...6lbs of bacon...24 sausage patties...5 pots of coffee...2 jugs of OJ...2 pitchers of sweet tea!!! Our little house on the hill was full of laughter, reminiscing, love and togetherness...we were bursting at the seams, and loving every minute of it!

Brent and I are so blessed to have our immediate families so close...we are also blessed that his divorced parents can be together on holidays with no injuries! lol We are small, but we definitely pack a punch!

I don't have any pictures of the festivities, but the images are burned in my mind and by far, Christmas 2010 was the best Christmas ever! I pray you and yours had the Merriest Christmas and will experience the best New Year!

All my love,

Monica

Christmas Time

The past few weeks have been so involved with Yuletide activities...finishing up school activities for the Christmas Break...preparing for the Christmas musical at Church...shopping and more shopping...

Which brings me to...what is the real meaning of Christmas? As a Christian this is a stupid question...of course it is the celebration of the birth of My Savior, Jesus Christ! Born in a stable, among the cows, sheep, hay and manure....placed in a manger full of left over grain and dried animal slobber. Well, that is the truth!

He came to free and to save...He came to love and to teach...to fulfil prophecy and to show us the way...the truth and the light! So, if this is is the true meaning of the "Reason for the Season", why do we put ourselves through so much drama? Why do we worry over the "perfect gift"...why do we misplace the Reason?

I completely understand the exchanging of gifts... to symbolize the Wise Men's gifts to our Savior. They were heartfelt, symbolic gifts of the years to come...wise men indeed! But, can I possibly give every person I love the "perfect" gift, wrapped under our tree? I believe my "perfect" gift would be better given by my actions and my deeds.

Can my husband take that gift with him around forever? No....but, how I treat him as my mate for life is what he can take with him on his daily walk. How he can rest assured I am praying for him and that I love him, with all my heart, for better or worse.

Can Cole take with him that cash forever? No...but he can take with him the knowledge of the love of a mother who only wants him to know how much he is loved. How God has given him a wonderful gift of intelligence and talent, and a heart the size of Texas. How he will forever be covered in prayer as long as his mother takes a breath.

Can Anna Lauren take those clothes with her forever? No...but she can take with her the knowledge that her mother loves her and prays for her and wants her to grow in love and grace...that I will continue to try to show her the example of how she is to behave as a woman, wife and mother. That her mother wants more for her than the stars in the sky.

I am thankful Brent and I are financially able to buy our earthly gifts. However, I am more thankful for the Savior that was born in the lowliest of manners...the King of Kings...to walk among us, to know first-hand being human...to suffer and die for me...and you...That my friends is nothing money can buy...it has already been purchased, on a tree, hung between thieves!

God wants the best for us, but that takes a little sacrifice on our parts, we must die to our earthly desires...I have to remember, as a Christian, I have an awesome responsibility to those around me...I am the face of Christ to so many...I screw up more than I care to admit, but each time I beg for forgiveness, dust myself off and continue.

I pray that you and yours have a most perfect Christmas...that all your wishes come true and that you are truly blessed by the true Reason for the Season!

All my love,

Monica

Happy Birthday Daddy

As many of you may know, my father died when I was 12, just 5 months shy of my 13th birthday. 13 years isn't very long, especially as I have become older. I will admit my memories of my father are sketchy. Unfortunatley many of the memories are the more recent ones...watching cancer devour him...he was the same age I am now when he died and believe me it is too young!

In the few short years I had with him he left an indellable impression on my life and heart that time can not erase. I remember a very soft spoken man with a really big smile. He had an insatiable love for The Lord and I was literally at the church or some church function every time the doors were open. He loved music, football, baseball and boxing...which I never understood the boxing part, but I definitely caught the love of the others!

He was not a big man, probably 5'9", but he had a big personality. People just loved him. And, Lord have mercy, he was sooo handsome! His eyes were so blue...like Paul Newman's! He fell in love with my mother at first sight and loved her until the moment he took his last breath. I always said I had "delusions of grandeure" where marriage was concerned, because I never heard them argue...ever. I really thought all relationships were like theirs. If only they could be....

His birthday is today, he would have been 69. It is hard to believe he has been gone for 28 years, but he has. He would have LOVED Brent Morse...and oh what he would have thought of Cole and Anna Lauren! I hope that he would like how I turned out, however bumpy the road was to get where I am now. Not one day goes by that I don't think of him.

As the years increase and the memories fade, I am so thankful that I was conceived and he and my mother were the people chosen to adopt me and raise me. Life was not easy growing up without him and there are days, even today, I wonder what it would be like to go to him for advise. But, I have been given my subtle little reminders of him...I think he left me a great legacy and taught me a lot about life in a very short period of time...

Don't take your life for granted

Don't take your spouse for granted

Love your babies

Say "I love you" everyday, multiple times

Love God

Praise God

Sing to God

Be punctual

Be neat

Be kind

Pray

Fight to the end...

Happy Birthday, Donald Joseph Grenier, you were a fantastic, husband, father, son, brother, son-in-law, brother-in-law, uncle, friend, co-worker and above all Christian. I wish you could have walked me down the aisle and held your beautiful grandchildren. Fished and hunted with Cole and Brent and hung out with Anna Lauren. I wish you could have been there to kick the mean boyfriends in the butt and been there when I needed someone to cry to...but you were...in spirit. And as cliche' as it sounds I know you are watching over us and you were there for every moment cheering from heaven..

All my love,

Monica

Thankfulness

Thankfulness...sometimes I wonder if the term means to others what it means to me? I know we all have many things to be thankful for, but do we really sit down and give it the thought it deserves?

I am thankful for...

• Jesus Christ, first and foremost, my Savior and Friend
• My precious family
• My home
• My crazy, mixed-up bag of nuts friends
• My Church Family
• My co-workers
• My jobs
• My dog
• Baseball
• SEC Football
• Mexican Food
• Old movies
• Music
• Decorating Magazines
• Spring time
• Easter
• Christmas

 I know it's a quirky list and is actually incomplete! There are a million other things I am thankful for, many of which I forget about. But, every day, before my feet hit the floor, I thank God for another day. Do I always love that day? No...there are days I wish I never have, but I know these are the days I am being changed and molded and reminded of just how good my life really is. How blessed I am to have healthy children and a faithful husband. Days when I am reminded I have a roof over my head that doesn't leak and a vehicle that is in good condition.

I am reminded I have food in my fridge and pantry and actually have to throw it out because it goes bad before we can eat it. I have clothes in my closet...and if I don't want to wear some of them, it's ok, because I have plenty. I can go through the drive-thru and by a meal. I can go to the salon...I can get a pedicure if I so choose. I can go to church free from persecution. I can do a lot of things and never think twice about them...

I know that my life can change in the blink of an eye...I might not even be here tomorrow...but, if that does happen, hopefully, the impression I have left on my husband, my children, my family, my friends and maybe even strangers was that:

• I loved my Savior
• I loved family
• I loved my friends
• I loved children
• I loved my life and appreciated it!

I once had a little girl at school, whom I did not even know ask me...

"Why are you always smiling?" I gave her an off-handed response like, "Well, would you like to see me all scowled up like this everyday?" But, it touched me so deeply. Because, I believe everyone deserves a smile...I also believe you can take whatever life throws your way and make the most of it. I can not imagine living my life without gratitude, even when the bad times come....

Love to all,

Monica



Happy Birthday, Anna Lauren!!!

November 12, 1999, at 8:29 am, Anna Lauren Morse was born. She was such a beautiful baby, 7lbs 5oz, 19 inches long. We had no idea the affect she would have on our lives. Cole had been the only one for almost 8 years and he was so excited! When we found out she was a girl, he wanted to go but her an outfit!

She breezed into our lives, so calm and happy. She was always smiling or laughing...She changed the whole dynamic of our family! She was an answer to my prayers. It is amazing how one little person can make things better, and she did!!

She is funny, smart, and talented. She has a very quick wit, and you never know what she is going to say...(wonder where she gets that?) She is the conscience of the house...she reasons better than most adults...she just makes things easier!

People say she looks just like me...and that may be so...but she is far more beautiful than I ever have been or ever will be. The entire family experiences the blessings she brings...as does everyone who knows her!

May you have a fabulous birthday, Baby Girl, and know that you are loved more than you can imagine!!!

This is for you....

Anna Lauren

Love always,

Momma

Falling Back

I can not remember when my love of Autumn began. Unfortunately, I live in the Deep South, and our Autumnal Season lasts about, um, 2 days....we go almost immediately from Summer to Winter. I have to admit, I feel somewhat cheated about the whole deal! This year has been a bust! It has been soooo dry and the colors of the season are not as vivid as they should be. Last year the colors were amazing because of all the rain we received.

One of the perks of the season is "falling back". My dear husband and my sweet boy, hate it...the short days force them inside much earlier than they like. I, on the other hand, love the shorter days...it forces my family to come inside much earlier than they would like. Call me crazy, but I like for everyone to be in the house together...I love to cook comfort foods...Potato Soup, Taco Soup, Chicken and Dumplins...I love to fire up the gas logs and cozy up on the couch and watch TV. I love to watch college football and scream my head off at the teams. Yes, Brent, I know they can't hear me, duh!

I LOVE to put on my sweats and fuzzy socks and curl up with a magazine. I love to wear my sweaters and boots...scarves and jackets! I love the anticipation of the holidays. Looking forward to my mother-in-laws pan of chicken dressing, and her pecan pie. My mother's turkey and ham...My sister-in-law's mac and cheese...my sweet potato casserole...Oh, the thanks I have in my heart for the sweet, small family I have been blessed with!

I love planning my girls birthday party...watching her get excited in the details...she is still so sweet and innocent...I dread the years to come, when the reality of growing up whacks both of us in the face! I pray she stays "laid-back" and will not let the ugliness of adolescence cloud her joy!

So tonight, I will fall back...into the slower pace of the colder months with an extra hour of sleep...tomorrow I will wake and take on a day of commitment to my Church Home...enjoy a wonderful potluck dinner (yes, lunch is called dinner around these parts) and come home and possibly even take a nap...and thank God for all the extraordinary blessings in my life...

Sleep Tight!

Monica

So....

I have had the most amazing weekend so far. I attended the Extraordinary Women's Conference at The BancorpSouth Arena, last night and today. I must admit, I have only been to one shindig similar to this one to see Beth Moore and that was incredible!

The "bad" things about these events is you are separated from your family, and that is not always easy. But I am thankful I was given the opportunity. There was a "Satan Interuptus" moment that almost kept me from going...thank God for my friend Amber. She softly encouraged me and I went.

See, that is the problem I have many times. I believe what Satan tells me. He is CONSTANTLY whispering in my ear! It's like, no matter what is happening, I believe the lie that I am not good enough, or pretty enough, or smart enough. When the Truth is, even if I am not good or pretty or smart...God doesn't care! He loves me just the way I am.

Now, we all know we can't stay where we are! We must continue to change and to grow. I am living proof that something can be made out of very little. I was not a privileged girl. We were not wealthy, which is a difficult dilemma for a girl who wanted to fit in. I had the illusion, that if we just lived on "the other side" of town, I would have it made. Truth turned out, some of those girls, didn't have it made.

While I was sitting in my, "wrong side of the tracks" home, these girls were struggling with loveless homes, absent parents and the pressure to keep up. While I was being loved and nurtured by my mother. Mind you, it was very difficult for her to raise this strong-willed child on her own. We both messed up in the relationship department a time or two. But, NEVER, EVER did I feel not loved...NEVER!!!

I took care of that on my own...choosing boys I thought were the greatest thing since peanut butter...only to realize, they were not! What was I thinking? Well, I can tell you I wasn't thinking. I lost my father at the tender age of 12...the time when little girls REALLY need a loving earthly father to intervene and show them how to be loved. I missed out on that. And you could tell by some of my choices.

Don't get me wrong, there were some really great guys out there, who took a "shining" to me...but why would I want a really great guy, when I could be treated like a dirt pile? I mean really? So, I perpetuated the lie until one day in some of my loneliest of days, God sent my sweet husband, who was battle scarred from his hurtful childhood. We have made a pretty good team...there are many time-outs, many flags thrown, some personal fouls, but it is still pretty good and I can't imagine being with anyone else!

It wasn't until Anna Lauren was about 2 or 3, that the truth I needed to hear was revealed to me. In a Wednesday night Bible study, I was told for the first time in my life, that God wanted to be my Daddy...seriously? He is the Sovereign King of the Universe...The Creator...The Alpha and the Omega! Why in the world would he want to be my surrogate Father? Didn't He have more pressing things to do?

Turns out, the answer was..."No, Monica, you are important to me, you are a precious child...you are not Fatherless!" Don't get me wrong, I have a fabulous mother, and there is a VERY SPECIAL place in Heaven for my mother..A VERY SPECIAL PLACE!!! Thank you, Momma! But, a girl needs her father!

We have an awesome responsibility to our children. Once we get over the mushy, gushy feelings a baby gives us...we must realize we are raising future adults. If we don't get it partly right, we could make some terrible mistakes. I am responsible for Cole's self esteem...Brent is responsible for Anna Laurens' self esteem.

I have to show Cole how he should be treated by women...Brent must show Anna Lauren how she must be treated by men. Those are our roles...Brent must also show Cole how to treat women and I must show Anna Lauren how to treat men. The family dynamic turns on these principles. And it is evident these principles are not part of many family dynamics.

I encourage anyone reading this to just make the simple step of confessing we aren't super parents and we need some help from above. God will lead us to the answers we need, the bookstore, the website, the devotional...He WILL do it... YOU must first listen..

Here is a song that has blessed me this weekend...I love my girl and I don't want her to feel like her mommy did...It is Mercy Me with Beautiful


Beautiful

I must now go be with my beautiful family on Saturday night...the Gang's all here and life is really, really good right now!

Love to you all!

Monica

Baseball and Soccer

Hi, everyone! It has been a while since I have posted...life has been VERY busy for us! Last Sunday, we journeyed to The University of North Alabama to watch Wallace play 2 games against other Community Colleges. These games are more for exhibition, but they sure do get this baseball mom excited about the Spring!!

Brent, Anna Lauren, my mom, my mother-in-law and I all went together, while Beagle, Brent's brother, went on his own. We joined The Chisholms and Mandie, Drew's girlfriend, and sat down for a great afternoon...except for the COLD, and I do mean, COLD WIND. Lord have mercy, I thought there might be snow before it was all over with!

This was one of the culprit clouds...pretty but cold, hello!

Our poor mothers were freezing, see how the wind was blowing!

Beagle found a little warmer spot...you just had to stand the entire time!

Oh, and notice, he is on the phone...that's a Morse for ya!

Cole getting the signal...

And the pitch....

Cole's roomie, Jake Smith, rounding 3rd to score!

 BACK, Drew!!

The Lions won both games, and Cole pitched very well...they only pitch 2 innings in these games and there are usually scouts from 4 year schools watching them. It's really a very cool set-up!

Tuesday night was Anna Lauren's first soccer game! The girls didn't have a name until they decided they wanted to be the "Physchos"! Not sure about it, but the girls love it and that is all that matters! I figure if that is the worst I have to deal with...I will take it!

My Sweet Little Psycho!

A bunch of little Psychos!

Matthew came by to watch!

Even thought the girls lost 5-3 to Chaos...I was very proud of them!!

Go Psychos!!!

We went to Pontotoc Thursday night and they won 5-0!

I am very proud of both of my children. They bring their father and me so much joy. We joke and say we can't believe how well they are turning out despite having us as their parents! I wake up praying for them and I end my day praying for them, that is all I can do!

I hope you all have a fun-filled weekend! I get to enjoy an additional day, thanks to Christopher Columbus! Woo hoo!

See y'all!

Monica

Buddy Walk

Our Church family was blessed 4 years ago with the birth of Trevor Simmerman. I distinctly remember the phone call from my friend, Angie, after his birth..."They think Trevor is Down Syndrome." My heart lept into my throat, but I had no fear for the family. I sent Renea and Michael a note the day after he was born, and I told them that God chose them, out of all the people in the world, to be Trevor's parents. 

The odd part was at the time there had already been several families, here in Northeast Mississippi, who were blessed with a Down Syndrome child. One of the families, The Knight's, had just had their little bundle of joy, Peyton. A support group grew out of necessity, many families needed the love and help from other families. This group is the Northeast Mississippi Down Syndrome Society and boy have they done some wonderful things.

Today was the 4th Annual NEMDSS Buddy Walk and 5k Run. This is one of the biggest fundraisers the group has. Silent Auction, free food and live entertainment. This year, our Church, Saltillo First United Methodist Church, became a sponsor. We have always sponsored Trevor, with Trevor's Team, but this year we "made the back of the t-shirt" ! We love the Simmerman's so much, and the Church Family held true to their vow to love and support the Simmerman's.

As I stated, there was a 5K run, and my bestie, Kelly ran (for the first time I might add) and won 3rd in her age division! Woo hoo, way to go girl!!! Here she is after accepting her trophy, still in shock I think! ;)

Another member of our Church, Ann Shows, won first in her age division, of course I don't have a good picture, but "Way to go Ann!" There is also a walk around the City Park's track...

Trevor and Anna Lauren

Me taking a picture of my friend Suzanne taking a picture of me...

 Sweet angel, Trevor, with dad, Michael.

I have a cousin in Connecticut, Christa, who is Down Syndrome. Although, I haven't seen my family up there in YEARS (20 to be exact) I still love them all. I would come see them, but my husband refuses to board a plane or drive for 2 days. Plus he won't let me go without him...ergo, I remain in Mississippi! Anyhoo, I know the blessing Christa has been for her Dad and 7 brothers and sisters. They are forever touched by her presence!

God doesn't give just anyone the opportunity to raise special needs children, he picks the perfect ones! I am so thankful that God chose me to experience the blessing as well and given me such wonderful friends to share them with!

Remember to count you blessings tonight and thank God for each and every one!

We will head to University of North Alabama tomorrow to watch Cole play! Last week the game at Alabama was rained out! I believe tomorrow, the weather will be perfect! Tuesday night Anna Lauren has her first Park and Rec soccer game! So, stay tuned for more updates....

Love to all and good night!

Monica

Love Affair & Prayers

Nah, I am still happily and contently married...but, I have a huge thing for...Etsy! If you don't know what Etsy is, it a global marketplace for all things handmade. I have been a fan for a couple of years now. I have purchased many items from craftspeople all over the US...My Chirstmas cards last year came from a seller on Etsy and she is doing our card again this year! Too excited!!! See, if you don't know me, then you have to know, I DON'T WANT WHAT EVERYONE ELSE HAS! Plus, I don't want anyone to have what I have...I think it's the only child in me! lol

Here are a few items that have my attention...

Handmade Berry Bowl

Stamped Sterling Silver Bracelet

Crocheted Cap

For a sweet baby girl I know...

So, you can see why I love this place!!!

My warning is as follows:

Please enter this site at your own risk! I will not be held responsible for wreckless spending on your behalf, nor will I accept resposiblility for any arguments between you and spouse or significant other! You must allow yourself a LARGE block of time, for one can not go to this site and leave very easily!

Tomorrow, weather permitting, we will journey to The University of Alabama to watch our son, Cole, pitch on their field in a game against Shelton State CC... I have never been to Tuscaloosa, so this will be a new experience for me. I am so gald he is off the DL and able to pitch...Go Lions!!!

As I close today, I would just like to ask everyone to pray for a family here in Saltillo, the Sandlins. They are a fixture in this town, if you live here...you know a Sandlin. They have had a lot of tragedy this year. Kirk Sandlin, was tragically taken by a senseless act this Thursday. He leaves his father, mother, 3 children and family behind. His sister passed away this spring, leaving their parents childless. He was only 35. I urge everyone to get your life right with The Lord, for you never know what the next minute holds!

Much love to all!

Monica

I Love Fall

I have loved Fall for as long as I can remember. I am drawn to the deep hues of the season. Just look inside my home and every room (except Anna Lauren's) is decorated with the rich tones of gold, green, red and brown. I have rushed my decorating this year, hoping the good Lord gets my hint.;) Here are a few of my vignettes... Poor Brent, he is married to a girl that merchandised for years...I treat most holidays as if my home were a department store!

This is my kitchen corner

My sideboard...

A little more sideboard...

One more view ;)

Dining Room table...

Kitchen Window

My Rebs just really blew it today. I don't know what is going on with them! My only consolation was... the lesser of two evils won...Geaux Tigers!

Cole is home this weekend and our dog Belle is in heaven! She loves Cole more than anyone else in this house. Kinda makes me mad, since I am the one that keeps her bowl full of water and makes sure she is fed! You would think I would rank up there, but to no avail. She has a new love now....



The Wallace State Lions!

We are so far away from Cole and the Fall games are played during the day, so going to watch games is virtually impossible! He has been on the DL, so he hasn't gotten to play, but he is much better now and will start playing again. I am so proud of him and I know he will do great things, on and off the field. I am looking forward to the Spring, so I can see him play!

Well, I have to go to bed...Sundays around here are NOT days of rest for me, but I love serving the Lord and I love teaching children about Jesus and watching them grow in God's grace and love! May you all have a beautiful worship experience!

Toodles Y'all!

Monica

Rantings

Funny, I am no "Writer", but I have had a mental block this past week and nothing to write about...so I will give you my "Brain Dump"...

1) Why is it Kindergartners are unable to be quiet? I mean seriously! One of the teachers has a "Yacker Tracker" up in her room. When the noise level reaches a certain, well, level, it goes off...yeah, only, it is not loud enough for our group to hear! I am buying an air horn, that should get their attention!

2) When will the weather cool off? I have lived in Mississippi the majority of my life and I can not remember it being this hot, this late in the month of September. Lord, I am not complaining...I am just sick of this heat and humidity.

3) Why is it that fresh fruits and vegetables cost more than junk food? I bought 4 apples and they totaled $5 ...and a box of Little Debbies cost no more than $2 and you get a dozen? Plus they have to pay packaging and shipping costs, as well as pay people to work in their factories...which costs bazillions of dollars to run...Something just does not add up here. Apples grow on trees, you pick 'em, put 'em in a crate and ship 'em to the store...

4) Why do politicians insist they are telling the truth, when in fact, they are lying when they say they are telling the truth? Is it prerequisite to be untruthful? I would stink at being a politician, I don't lie very well!

5) How is it the "Water Meter Maid" can just lift the lid, never wipe the dirt off or never write anything down? Why bother looking in there at all? I guess she has photographic memory along with x-ray vision...Oh, and 2 showers a day and 3 loads of laundry has moved out and our bill has not changed...hmmmm.....

6) Why is it that everytime my family sits down to eat dinner, the phone rings? I wonder if there is an alarm that goes off the moment we sit on the chairs that alerts the world, we are dining? Never fails...

7) Why is it everytime I sit to watch a tv program, I am bombarded by commercials for personal items? I am just wondering how, of all the products in the world, the ones that are marketed the most are things that we women HAVE to have? Is the market for such items so competitive, you must convince me and every other fertile woman on the planet yours is the best?...Who says women don't rule the world?

8) Why can't photography be easy? I remember those Canon commercials from when I was a little girl..."Just aim and shoot"...yeah, sure, whatever! My camera's manual is thicker than my 365 day devotional...

9) Why do people ask my opinion and then not take my advise? Does it make you feel better to reject sound advise? I have seen it all, done most of it and watched the rest...I know what I am talking about! I am certain that, in the end, you will see I was right...but don't come cryin' to me...I told you so!

10) And last but not least...attention mongers...please, I can handle a bunch of 5 year olds, that is their nature. But, a grown adult should just get over it. If you are not getting the attention you feel you so richly deserve, then maybe you should step back and take inventory of your life...maybe people don't want to give you the attention, because they know you will become even more obnoxious than you already are...

I must ask for forgiveness now...

Good night y'all!
Monica

For Kelly

Back in the Fall of 1983, I began my high school career at Carver. Now, if you are from Tupelo, you fully understand Carver in the eighties. That is where you went your 9th grade year. On Mr. Hankins bus I met a girl named Kelly. Kelly was a cheerleader, yes I said cheerleader (and we wonder where Erin gets it!), and was super nice, too! Like, OMG. (It was the 80's)

As time went on, we became a little closer. There was a group of 8 of us. We spent countless hours driving around "The Loop", windows down singing to the top of our lungs. Lord only knows how much money we spent on gas. Flirted with the boys from the surrounding towns, just to make the girls mad. I can not even describe the trouble, I mean fun we all got in to, I mean had. But it was a fabulous time.

Graduation came and went. Kelly went to State and I hung around and did the ICC thing. While at State, Kelly met Tim, a fella from Saltillo. While I was still around here I met Brent, a fella from Saltillo. See where this is going? Both were pitchers for the Almighty Tigers...both loved to hunt, fish, tell stories and sing (that one's for Contel). The inevitiable happened...Kelly and I ended up hanging out together again. Forging a more meaningful relationship.

I was part of her wedding...she was in mine...She was there when Cole was born...I was there shortly after Maggie was born. Anna gets Maggie's hand-me-downs and Erin gets Anna's. We have celebrated every Christmas together for 18 years, we never miss birthdays. My babies are her babies...her babies are my babies. She is the sister I never had, the one I can vent to, the one I can cry to, the one I laugh with and the one who can make fun of me.... and get away with it.

This is her birthday, and she deserves way more than she gets! She is smart and strong, loves her family and friends, can plan a party better than Martha. She is a great mom, an absolutely FABULOUS children's counselor and a tolerant wife, lol. And the absolute best friend a girl could have!

Last year...Big 40!!!

Happy Birthday Kelly, Love ya!

My Own Little Corner...of the Dining Room!

Well...I now have a desk to do my work on! It is a desk I have longed for...for many years. Mom finally let me have it today, and I can not express my joy! Laugh if you will but it has been a part of my existence for so long, I can't remember NOT having it around. Lord only knows how old it is! I believe it is made of oak and somewhere along it's journey was painted black. Yay for me, cause I love black, distressed furniture!

Mom hesitated when I asked for it...said she didn't want me to "muck it up"! LOL...I am not 12, Mother! I do my painting in "The Shack" where it's ok to "muck things up". She can be so funny! Brent and I went to pick it up this morning....

We put it on the back patio....

I cleaned it and oiled it.

Then I placed it, ever so carefully in the corner....

Then proceeded to get organized!

It really doesn't take much to make me happy! :o

On a side note, Brent and I were eating sandwiches today and check out the potato chip he found! We both laughed because it looks like an apple...and my class is the Apple Dumpling Room!

Tomorrow we must head back to the trenches...

Hope you have had a great Labor Day!

Monica

The Prodigal Penguin

Well, I guess the title of today's post has you saying...Um, Monica, it's the Prodigal SON! True... but there's a new penguin in town and his name is Philip. He lives way up north, where the penguins live, and life just ain't that exciting for him. So he ventures to the big city...and, well, you know the rest!

My dear, sweet friend and Kindergarten Teacher Extraordinaire, Lori Johnson, is now a published author!!! We are sooo proud of her! She is trying to get it in local bookstores and has sent a copy to Lifeway Headquarters! We pray they will love it as much as we do. I believe it will appeal to children of all ages, it is humorous as well as touching.

Being a prodigal son or daughter is probably something most of us can relate to. In our relationships with our earthly parents as well as our Heavenly Father. The truth behind our disobedience is, that when we turn and ask for forgiveness, it is given! We are given a second chance, or a third or fourth! As many chances that we need to find love and healing!

The appeal to children will definitely be that it is understandable. The main character is a penguin for heaven's sake...what child doesn't like penguins? God placed this on Lori's heart when she was on maternity leave with her son, Seth...when she was SUPPOSED to be teaching my daughter, Anna Lauren. But I digress...It has taken her 5 years to get it all together... God's timing... no doubt. But it is perfect, as usual!

If you are interested in a copy, please message me. She will even sign your copy! The cost is $12.00, I don't know about shipping, but I will get that info to you. It is a delightful adaptation of a story we all need to keep in our hearts...the story of true forgiveness!

May you all have a blessed Labor Day...I am sleeping in!!!

Love to all!
Monica

Dove hunting and Rock Bottom Creek

For many years, we have gone to our friends, The Yarbroughs, for opening day of dove season. It has become one of my favorite traditions. Buck, Gena, Chelsea and Houston are good friends. Buck even honored Cole with a dove hunt last year for his senior year!

Today was no exception, I cooked corn on the cob, and headed on over to Yarbrough Trail to spend the day with my friend Gena. The sad part is, we live in the same town and are members of the same church...and we never get to see each other, it seems. So, this is the day we laugh and catch up. Discuss raising our children and putting up with our husbands (ha).

After filling our bellies, Gena took her niece, Sadie (who also happens to be my daughter's bestie), Anna Lauren and me to "Rock Bottom". As long as I have lived in Saltillo, I have never been there, and Gena felt that was a travisty. So we loaded up in the truck and headed on over.

"Rock Bottom Creek" lived up to it's name today. We haven't had much rain this summer and it was pretty much bone dry. But, that didn't stop our field trip. We ventured along the dry creek bed and found so many treasures. Butterflies were everywhere as were toads...the little bity baby ones! Sadie found an ENORMOUS mollusk shell! Anna Lauren and Sadie were FASCINATED! Even though they are 10 years old, they can still be amazed by the "little things".
Even though my Rebels blew it today...the day was really a good one. I am thankful for good friends, good food and good weather. And the opportunity to not worry about a thing, relax and enjoy the day!

I am yet again a thankful gal!

God bless and good night!
Monica

Emily Giffin and The Tooth Fairy

This Summer, while I was on my "Senior Trip", I brought 2 Emily Giffin books with me, Something Borrowed and Something Blue. What a joy these books were, I read them both in 4 days. I really identified with both main characters in each book, Rachel and Darcy. No, I am not a really smart attorney nor am I a self-absorbed pretty girl. But, I could relate to their fears and idosyncracies. I love the way Giffin writes. Now, mind you, I am in no way someone who gets lost in books. I get lost in housework, laundry and jobs, diving into books is not a luxury I have.














Anna Lauren and I ended up in Barnes and Noble Sunday. I decided to buy the next book, Baby Proof. I am really excited to have the book, now if I can just find the time to read it! Don't know if I can relate to this character, but I know it will be a joy to read.

Today, a sweet little boy in our room lost a tooth. God love, he couldn't find it! The assumption was that he swallowed it. Devastated that the Tooth Fairy wouldn't come, I told him that since Ms. Sides and I were witnesses, we would write a note to the Tooth Fairy to put under his pillow. Fortunately, a little girl found the tooth on the carpet. Wish I had a picture of her face! Anyhoo, he told me to put in a safe place...I put it in one of the cute "tooth necklaces" we have for such and occasion. He left this afternoon and when I returned to my desk, the tooth was still on my desk! Uh-oh....

I went through his folder and realized, he lived on my street! However, I did not want to open that can of worms, so I decided I would first try his day care. Anna Lauren and I went by and he was still there! I have NEVER seen such an expression of gratitude on a child's face!

I MUST try to remember those feelings of childhood. Losing a tooth was a BIG deal...it IS a big deal, and that sweet little man will not be disappointed tonight ! He will recieve something from a crazy fairy that collects teeth in exchange for money. The earth is a better place when a child experiences the "little things"!

Now, I must go, I made chicken dumplings for dinner. It is still hot outside, but the comfort they bring, well, it's worth it.

God Bless,
Monica

What or Who is running your life?

I have many blessings in my life. As cliche' as it sounds, there are too many to count. However, one of the biggest blessings in my life is my "boss". Mr. Ken Smith is the Principal at Saltillo Primary School. He is also an Ole Miss Rebel, which makes me smile, and he is a fine man of God. He is not ashamed of his faith. He does not hide the fact he is a Christian.

Often times, when Brother Tim is unable to teach our Wednesday Night Bible Study, Ken Smith steps in. He knows his stuff...which is probably why he is the Lay Leader of our Church. I digress....this evening the topic of our study was, "Who or What is Running Your Life?" Hmmmm.....thought provoking stuff.

Does worry, fear, work, money or "others" run your life? Good question. Do you allow God to take the lead, fill in the gap... often times, that is not the case for me. I am a Jesus loving, God fearing girl, but sometimes I forget that, as a Christian, I am no longer mine. I belong to a loving Father, who cares about me and you so much, He allowed his Son to die for our transgressions (I like that word better than sin, lol). He takes care of the sparrow, and knows when one falls...He makes sure the birds are taken care of...He will, if you let Him, take care of you!

I do not subscribe to the belief that we are down here, flailing around, on our own...left to fend for ourselves, because we have free will! I believe we are given circumstances to exercise that free will, and show where our faith lies. I am also confident that my Heavenly Father is my personal substitute for my fatherless life since the age of 12. He will not leave me nor forsake me....so, how will I let my life be run? By stuff or by God? I chose God, filled with the Holy Spirit and intercession by Christ.

My prayer is that we all learn to let God lead our lives...things will be less stressful!

Love to all!
Monica

Anna Lauren is doing so well in fifth grade. What a beautiful child God has blessed Brent and me with! She is smart, talented, funny and a little neurotic! Gotta love her, bless her, she's my mini me! She will begin soccer soon! She took a break last year, so she is back, full force!
Today was a very trying day! Cole pulled a muscle in his back, which meant he could not practice or play until they found out the extent of the injury. Helping him is so difficult, because he is 2 hours away, and Brent and I can't get to him as easily. Thank Goodness, Brent was off today to make the necessary calls to the insurance company!

After waiting for what seemed like an eternity, we found out the doctor was in our network! Praise the Lord! So, he was x-rayed and examined and it turns out he has a pulled muscle (which we knew) and a vertebrae that's a little "whampy". The doctor gave him some stretching exercises that should eradicate the problem...Hallelujah!

God has blessed me with a wonderful job...His timing could not have been better, because if I had tried to assist in Kindergarten any earlier, I probably would not have been as calm...which is scary, because my nerves tend to wear a bit thin at times!

But, I am so glad I have a Cole in my room. So I get to say a name I LOVE to say MANY TIMES A DAY...trust me. The great thing about this sweet little boy is he LOVES to give hugs and kisses, which is just what I need! Especially on days like today, when I can't hug or kiss my boy!

That has been my day, in a nutshell, with few omissions...I hope your day has been blessed and tomorrow is even better!

Love,

Monica

Last Day of August

Well, this is another attempt to start blogging. I set this page up over a year ago, became frustrated because I wanted it to be fabulous and didn't know how. So after a LOT of "Blog Stalking" I have a little more confidence.

Today, Anna Lauren and I left school and had pedicures. Mind you, this is the second pedicure I have ever had, and I really enjoyed it. What amazes me most about pedicures is how people don't mind touching (often times) dirty feet, and cleaning crusty, smelly toenails. Kuddos to them, cause this gal wouldn't do it!

When we arrived home, we were greeted by our Belle! She had a MAJOR haircut from Doggy Dos! See picture above! Why is it up there? I don't know...and how do I move it down here? I am not too sure I will be very good at this! lol

Today has been challenging on so many different levels, typical Monday. I just pray Tuesday goes a little better.

God bless you all and good night!
Monica