Thankful

Last night I was a "Thanksgiving Social" with the Bible study I attend twice a month. It was so much fun. We did this activity that really made me stop and think..... I am sure you all remember the construction paper linking that you can make chains with? Well, this was a variation of that. Everyone got as many strips of paper as they wanted and on each strip wrote things they were thankful for. I just wanted to share mine, because I am genuially thankful for so many things.... They were (in no particular order):

Thankful for:

Graduating with a Masters Degree!!!!!

My precious, and the most incredible hubby ever!

Family time spent in Indiana, especially my Grampsie-poo.

Spending time with best friends that have gorgeous babies!

Relationship with Christ.

Finding my passion in having a "cause career" and looking forward to the future.

Embracing this season of transition.

My hubby furthering his education to change his family tree and support me :)

My unbelievable support system that has formed while living here in Louisiana.

I did want to share this precious picture. Again, it isn't the best quality because it was taken with my half broken blackberry (Santa is working on that though), but you get the idea of how cute this little boy is. It takes everything in my being not to take him home each night, but reminds how incredible my job is, that I can be impacted in such an amazing way from a homeless 2 year old boy. People, he is the face of Christ. All homeless are. Love them. Did I mention I love my job? Anyway, here is the picture. Hope you enjoy and have a wonderfully thankful Thanksgiving!!



Senioritis

I officially have a horribly awful case of Senioritis. My goal this weekend was to get all projects/assignments done before the week starts, because I have so much going on at work this week due to Thanksgiving. For whatever reason I just can not get motivated. I have done a little here, wait a couple of hours, a little there, and now I am just in a full blown state of procrastination. At least I am honest! I have made a list, and David is making sure I am getting things marked off and not blogging.... LOL. Anyway, thank God I caught Senioritis only three weeks before school is over with. It is the little things I am thankful for. :)

I must press on, and get through the next three weeks. It will be so unbelievably worth it in the end. I can not wait to walk across the stage for the time ever. I think I just might cry. They will be the biggest tears of accomplishment and joy. I can do this. I will get over my Senioritis and re-focus. I have come this far... I will finish... strong. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. <3

Time...Flying...By....

So I have officially not blogged in like two and a half months. Umm, ya. Life pretty much sums that up!

First of all, let me start off by saying - we couldn't be more blessed. We have had so much happen in the past couple of months, but above all else, we are so very blessed.

September was filled with studies and travels. The second weekend of September we celebrated a dear friend of ours 90th birthday, and then headed down to Baton Rouge for our best friend's from Dallas, baby shower. It was a quick trip, but we were treated like royalty and got the grand tour of LSU! I had NO idea that there was a real live tiger on campus. Umm, ya that is just freaking awesome. :) David refuses for our kids to go to LSU, but I am totally for it. LOL - that should be a fun conversation to have in like 20 years.

From there we spent a couple of weeks at home and then the last weekend of September was spent in Dallas at a Dave Ramsey conference!! I went for work, but David got to go with me and it was awesome. Dave Ramsey is just as fabulous in person as he is in books/videos/radio. I highly recommend his new book!

In October, we had an unexpected event happen as my grandmother passed away. I was able to spend the week in Indiana with my family and it was just what my soul needed to help me continue through this semester. I have never been to a nicer funeral. She loved fall, and in southern Indiana it was like walking through a postcard. The cemetery she is buried at kind of sits on a hill and over looks rolling hills of the most gorgeous trees, and of course they were absolutely breath taking colors. I couldn't imagine being buried in a more beautiful place. My Gramps is unbelievable. He absolutely devoted his life to love her. I am so fortunate to have witnessed their incredible love and bond for one another. David and I are spending a week in Indiana at Christmas with my family. I can't wait to see my precious Gramps again!

Ok, so for November. Next week is Thanksgiving! How is that possible? I am not going to complain though, I am ready for my semester to be OVER! I have three weeks left of school and four weeks until graduation! I have submitted my graduation packet, signed off on my papers, paid my graduation fee (don't even ask), bought and received my cap/gown/hood, and made sure my hometown is NOT listed as "Arcadia" but instead Dallas. I AM READY. :) I do really love my coursework, and have learned so much this past year with this graduate program. I am excited to pursue my "cause career" just still not sure exactly how that all will pan out, but at this point I am totally not worried about it. I have to stay focused on the next three weeks and then worry about all of that! Currently, the plan is for me to continue working at the Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission and help be the most amazing support system to get David out of school. Once he is out, then we will worry about what is my next step. We have figured out to take one thing at a time. Otherwise, I might become the next patient at the local insane asylum. ;) Plus, I believe in a God that is directing our path and leading the way.

David finished his quarter with stellar grades (of course). He was invited to join Beta Alpha Psi this quarter, and has several fun outings with them. Have y'all ever watched the Big Bang Theory? Well, let's just say these guys are super smart, and super nerdy, and then there is my hubby that is SUPER HOT and smart. :) The group together just kind of makes me laugh, but in a good way. He will graduate in August 2012 with his bachelors. He wont walk then, but wait until he finishes his masters. He will have a bachelor's degree in 9 months people! HOW AWESOME IS THAT?!?!?

I work on Thanksgiving again this year. The SBRM will serve 1,500 meals that day alone. It is no easy task, but it is always so rewarding once we are done. From there we are heading to Dallas and spending the rest of the weekend with our best friends. They have had their baby girl and we get to meet her - FINALLY!!!
Before we head back to Louisiana, we will get to see Mom and Dad coming back from their trip to Indiana.

That sums up the past couple of months. I did want to mention how much I am enjoying being a part of the Junior League! I have met so many great women, and have had so much fun learning more about the league and the city of Shreveport. All isn't bad here. I was able to experience the Red River Revel for the first time this year working a Pepsi booth for the league. It was so much fun. We are working hard right now to prepare a "health and fitness" night for the parents and students of one of the lower income elementary schools to do in the spring. My most favorite thing I am looking forward to is the Spring Market. This is a huge deal and has so many vendors, with so much stuff and shopping. I love shopping, I love looking, I love creativity, I love Spring Market. :)

Hope all is well with each of you. Hugs. I will write again - much sooner. I am almost finished with school, I will be back into the blogging world in no time!!

Sorry the picture is blurry, I took it with my half broken blackberry. If I am good girl this Christmas, Santa has promised me an iPhone!!! But nonetheless, here is the most recent picture of David and me at a Kari Jobe worship service. It was one amazing night. Jesus truly rocks my world!
Hugs and love to you!

Fast Forward

While it is still hot outside, I think summer is officially over. It has been a great summer, but I am not going to lie, I am ready for the extreme heat to leave.

Just a little house keeping since the last time I blogged:
I completed my summer session with two A's. I have no idea how I managed that, because the sociology class I was in, just about made me crazy. I am all for helping people, but I am for helping those that want to help themselves, not just expect handouts. ANYWAY. (Another time, another blog).

David and I spent my time off from school, working, watching movies, cooking and sleeping. We both have a new hobby and it is called sleep! I think we have adapted to some of our elderly friends schedules, were neither of us have a problem going to bed at 7:30pm and waking at 5am. It is actually kind of comical. All good things must come to end, so don't worry I am back in school and already have started keeping 'later hours'.

We spent the middle of August in Dallas, well for a weekend anyway! David officially turned 33 and it was a blast. Mom, Dad and I planned a surprise birthday party for him! He was absolutely shocked. We had a wonderful time in Dallas, as always, and could hardly make ourselves go back to Louisiana. Dad, Mom and I made cupcakes, and Dad made his famous homemade cheesecake. It is was a relaxed 'party' but everyone who was able to make it had a great time. We sure do love our friends.

I can't believe August is almost over. At work we are already planning Thanksgiving/Christmas events. It just seems like once August is over with the rest of the year simply disappears! It will be a crazy insane next four months, but I am thoroughly looking forward to them. Each month has something different and exciting we are looking forward to. I am excited though, because it helps keep us distracted from missing 'home' and focused on the task at hand (whatever that might be).

I have a full load this semester and have already started classes. I am taking four classes, my last four graduate class at that! I will walk across the stage for the first time in my life in a mere four months. Excited, doesn't even begin to describe how I feel about that! As with any insane schedule, I just have to stay organized and on top of my studies. This course load is already proving to be taxing, but I am tattooing (on my brain) that with Christ all things are possible! I know right now He will carry me to that graduation stage.

David starts school back after Labor Day. He is going to be pretty busy with his fall quarter. He is working less so he can study more. I am so proud of him. He will be done with his undergraduate degree so soon! He will be officially take graduate courses this winter! He is so smart and I just love that about him.

We are both looking forward to celebrating our 5 year wedding anniversary in the next coming months! I can't believe we have been married almost five years. It seems like it was just last summer I was planning a wedding. :) I couldn't imagine God giving me anyone else to be my partner and journey through this life with. David is simply amazing.

Ok, well, that catches everyone up (for the most part) of what has been going on with us. I hit the highlights anyway. We definitely are excited about what the next two years have in store for us and where we will end up! At this point it's any one's guess. :)

PTO

I couldn't wait for July to get here, and now the month is just days from ending. It seems as though the summer months operate in double time. I had eleven days off from work and the time flew by!

David, Mom and I drove up to Indiana and met Dad in Ramsey. Our trip started on the road. We spent 12 hours driving from Arcadia to Jackson to Memphis to Nashville to Louisville to Ramsey. Finally we made it. We spent the first evening in Ramsey and visited with Gramps, Granny and Dad.

On Friday we got up and made our way to Bloomington, Indiana. I am pretty sure this is the United States best kept secret of an amazing place!!!! Aly is living there while Matt (her hubby) is finishing his Masters at IU. Matt is currently out of the country. Aly met us for lunch at this place called Bloomigfoods. It is like a Trader Joes, Central Market, Whole Foods type place. The food was fresh and amazing! Please make a note, it was July 15 and we all sat outside on the patio to eat LUNCH and no one broke a sweat! How incredible is that?!?!

Aly works just a few blocks from Bloomingfoods, so after we finished lunch we walked back to her job and got to see where she works. Pretty cool. After she went back to work, Mom, Dad, David and I drove around the city. It is so green. Just envision a smaller, less hot version of Austin, Texas. Are you in love yet? I am!

Anyway, the next thing on our list was visiting the campus. I had an appointment with the IU School of Law. All I can say, is that I would give anything to go there! I am working hard to finish my Masters with a 4.0 gpa, so hopefully I will have a chance.

After we finished touring the school and walked around the campus, we walked down Kirkwood. We found a local IU college wear shop and purchased a couple of items. David and Dad had to go by the football field and walk on the basketball court while we were there too. :)

It soon was time to meet Aly for dinner. We picked up a couple of items for dinner and headed to her apartment. Her place is super cute and she has it looking great. Aly and Dad made homemade enchiladas that were to die for! She also made homemade guacamole. The entire day was perfect. I was truly in heaven.

Saturday morning, we all got up early and headed to the local bagel shop. From there, we walked over the to the Farmers Market. It was everything you would envision it to be. Before we headed out of town we stopped by Bloomingfoods to pick up a couple of things and snapped this quick photo of me and David.

We had family reunion that Saturday afternoon. It was a great time to see everyone. I wish we lived closer to see everyone on a more frequent basis. It was an overall wonderful time! Later that evening, after dinner we went over to one of our cousins house. Good times had by all.

David, Dad, and Mom all left early Monday morning. I stayed and Aly went back to work in Bloomington. It was an incredible week. I gardened, walked, went to the library, cooked and found this amazing picture of my Daddy!! He was just about 2 years old. Isn't that the most precious picture? I think my grandparents still have that bear too!

After spending the week with my grandparents, Aly picked me up on Friday afternoon. I don't remember the last girl's weekend we had, and I was totally pumped. The weekend started with right to our door delivery of Chinese food. We watched the Business of Being Born. If you have never watched this movie - you should. You should also, take it with a pound of salt. :) On Saturday morning went to the bagel shop and onto the Farmer's Market. I got two jars of peach jam and Aly bought this beautiful Locust Flower.

We did a little shopping at the Bloomington Mall, stopped by Bloomingfoods, and then found a nail salon to get a mani and pedi. Once we were beautified (and they had dried) we made our way to Chiplote and on to the (I swear) world's largest Target!!! It was the most incredible thing I have ever laid eyes on. I love Target and I definitely love the one in Bloomington! At this point, it was like 100 degrees outside so we decided to spend the afternoon in. We curled up and watched Pretty Women and Dirty Dancing. They are still my favorites. :) Aly had just received the Cooking Light magazine for the month of August, and I found this great homemade pizza. We decided to have that for dinner. We ran out to Target to get a few ingredients, and then back to the house. Start to pizza on the plate was like 10 mins!!! Oh, and the pizza was delicious! We bought the crust, and put on Trader Joe's spaghetti vodka sauce, cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, spinach and tomatoes. Put it in the oven on 500 for like 5-8 minutes and it's done! For dessert we picked up piece of 3 layer cake from Feast (a local bakery in town) and split it. We watched Center Stage.

That night we were fixing to go to bed and both of us were looking at our phones, texting the hubby's, etc and I asked Aly if she and Matt cuddle. She said they hold hands. I don't know why I thought that was so funny, but I did. I couldn't stop laughing. She rolled over and looked at me and was like "I know you and David probably lay on top of each other to sleep!! So I am not going to ask you if you cuddle." I was like what?? you think we are super cuddly? And she was like "yes, Anna. You guys are serious PDA-ers." Again, I am just laughing. And she goes, "ya, David will kiss you these big sloppy wet kisses and then says 'mmm I love my kisses!'" HAHAHAHHA! It was the funniest thing I have ever heard. So now the joke is "mm I love my kisses". :)

It is amazing what you can learn spending a weekend together. I had an absolutely amazing time with my sister and look forward to the next time we get together. I am already looking forward to it!

Devoted Love

Last week I had the amazing privilege of spending the week with my grandparents. During my week there I was in absolute "awh" of how devoted my grandfather is to my grandmother. Even though he isn't in the best health, and Granny is on hospice - he absolutely adores her.

Every day it was blazing hot outside, so he walked around the house for his 'walk' instead. Each time he made the loop by her bed, he would stop lean over and talk to her, maybe even put his hand on her face or arm. She isn't responsive much, but each time she would turn her head and look at him. It was as though there hearts spoke, even when neither of them said anything. It was the most inspiring thing to watch.

Too many times I think each one of us get caught up living life. Maybe we should be more like Granny and Gramps. Live each day simply, and find even the smallest way to show love to your spouse. Life is too short, and just like Gramps says "it feels like we got married yesterday....." that was 62 years ago.

I have never been more honored to witness such sweet, simple, devoted love to one another. Knowing that their time is limited, watching the two of them together made my heart smile. How special that I have had two sets of grandparents that have shown me how to love and the importance of being devoted to one another.

Granny & Gramps as newly weds

(Sorry - I couldn't turn the picture)

Happy Birthday America!

So.... I realize I a little behind, but.....

We had a wonderful 4th of July this year! On Friday night, the weekend started out by helping David's brother Tim and new wife Amanda move into their new house in Shreveport!!! We could not be more excited to have them living close to us again. It has been so awesome in the past couple of years that we have lived in Louisiana that David has been able to get closer to his brother(s). We sure do love them.

David's oldest brother, Dale and his wife Sherry and son Avery, all came to stay with us over the weekend. They brough their dogs Lulu and Dubya too! For the little bitty house we have, somehow we made room and everyone had a place to lay. :) They got into town Saturday afternoon, and we went to see Cars 2. I think the adults liked it more than Avery!! Every time David and I go and see a 'kid' movie - it never ceases to amaze us how much adult humor is in them. LOL. Anyway, that evening by popular demand, we went to JR's. It is by far the most amazing food you will ever have. Our friend April meet us and her little niece loved Avery. Tim, Amanda and Tommy were able to join us too. We had such a great time together. Afterwards, everyone came over to our house and we spent most of the time outside, because our house is seriously, not very big. We have a huge yard though, so the kids threw baseballs and played tag. We really had a wonderful time hanging out with everyone.

Sunday morning, David and I got up and made breakfast for Dale, Sherry and Avery. Dale heard that there were goats near by, and so we made our way to see them. Everyone got a good kick out of how the goats all just started "baaaa-ing" when Dale got out of the car.... LOL. Anyway, we made a quick trip to Wal-Mart to pick up a couple of items and then headed to lunch in Ruston. From there we headed to Shreveport to hang out and see the alligators at the Boardwalk. Avery got to do the "build a bear" thing and then we explored Bass Pro Shop. They actually have some really funny things that make crazy noises - that is my favorite part of the store. :) Yes, I am that person that makes sure all the 'noise makers' work. hehe. From there we went to Tim and Amanda's new house. It is perfect for them. We really a fun evening together. It seems like it is impossible to have a bad time if the Adams boys are together! I think all of our ribs hurt after dinner. Avery and Tommy really had a good time together, and of course the six adults had a blast. Dale even sang to us some Navaho revival songs! Seriously, entertained is an understatement!! On the way home we saw some really pretty fireworks, it was the perfect way to end a great day.

On Monday we woke up and Dale, Sherry and Avery packed everything up. We took them to Gap Farms for breakfast and then said our good byes. We really had a wonderful weekend with friends and family. I can't think of a better way to spend a 3 day weekend. Of course, the time flew by and mini-vacas go by way to quick, but the time spent was one we will never forget!!

Hope everyone else had a fantastic fourth of July!!! Thank you to all the brave men and women who defend this precious land!

Best Friends

This past weekend David and I had the amazing privilege of watching one of our very best friends get married!! David and Chris have known each other for over 10 years and they couldn't be closer. Several people asked if they were brothers.... they might as well be. :) Just two peas in a pod!

David and I house swapped with Mom and Dad this weekend. They came to Arcadia, Louisiana for Mom's high school reunion. They stayed at our house, and we stayed at theirs. :)

We arrived on Friday night in Dallas, and drove to Chris and Paaty's house to begin the festivities!! We had some amazing jambalaya and Mississippi mud pie. Chris and David picked up right where they left off (as usual). We are so thrilled that Chris has found such an amazing woman to call his wife. Chris was an integral part of making our wedding the most rememberable day possible, and so we committed to them to do the same for theirs!

Saturday morning came early and David and I both felt like it was our own wedding day all over again! We were just SO excited to see them married! Once we arrived at the house, we got to work - we chopped, cut, hung, laughed, moved, talked, smiled, facebooked, taped, and draped. We broke for lunch and then it was time to change for pictures!

The wedding was beautiful!!!!! We could not be MORE excited that y'all are finally married. Weddings are crazy times, and full of emotions. Y'all are the best friends one could possibly ask for and we can't wait to live clos(er) to you again. Both of you make us ridiculously homesick. :)

On Sunday, David and I were exhausted. We had so much fun the day before, but I don't think I could feel my feet when I went to bed that night. LOL. We had plans to go home early but digressed. Not only did we sleep in, we took an afternoon nap too!!! Don't judge, we were waiting on the laundry to be done so we could leave Mom and Dad's house spic and span! We did muster up enough energy to find a Mavericks Championship t-shirt, Chipolte, and Anthropology (for their Capri Blue Volcano candle). It was hard work,but someones gotta do it!!!

We made it back around 7:30 on Sunday night. All of our clothes were clean and we just had to hop into bed. I think we both are still on cloud nine from having such a wonderful weekend!

We love you so much Chris and Paaty and wish you the best!

A Choice to Love

Today, David and I were able to witness a beautiful marriage of two incredible people, Tim and Amanda Adams! We are so incredibly happy for their union and know through Christ they will grow closer to each other. Our prayer is that each day they wake up making a choice to love and devote themselves to one another. Love is not a feeling, but a long term commitment, a choice. May each day be better than the next, and always remember: the best is yet to come!!!  We wish you well and a lifetime of happiness.

Love,

Anna & David

Aspiring Green Thumb

When I was a little girl, some of my foundest memories were with my Daddy. I loved waking up on Saturday morning to go to Lowe's, Home Depot, and Calloways Nursery. We always made our way through the Garden section, and if Dad was looking for something particular and we found it, he always let me pick out which ones were the prettiest. Once we got home, Dad would do all the 'dirty work' while I got to dig the hole and place each flower we selected in it. Because of my Daddy my foundness for flowers and gardens has just continued to grow.

Recently, David and I spent the weekend in Dallas and while it was hot, the Texas heat hadn't scrotched everything yet. My Daddy's garden was breath taking! I promise - one day, he will have pictures in Southern Living, I just know it. The man has the ability to make even the ugliest plant not only grow, but become the most gorgeous flower you have ever seen.

Today, David and I both have common interest with our love for the outdoors, flowers, and gardens. Every place we live, I can gurantee the yard looks better leaving that when we first moved in. We love all kinds of flowers but our favorites have to be roses, day lillies, dafodils and iris. One day, I hope to have a "gawgeous" yard just like my Daddy. He is incredible and I am so proud of him and the handy work he has created.

I think people with green thumbs truly have a God given ability to create the most gorgeous sceneries. It is as though God picks a select few and gives them exceptional talent so that the rest of us can see a little piece of what Heaven will look like. My Daddy's yard, is exactly what I invision Heaven to look like.

8 Quarters

26 months, 791 days.... but who is counting? David only has 8 quarters left before he is DONE and DONE!

This fall he will enter the year as a Senior! Can you believe that? He will have his Bachelors Degree complete August of 2012 and then August 2013 he will walk across that glorious stage with his Masters Degree! I am so proud of him and can't wait for him to accomplish this incredible goal.

This summer David is only taking 2 courses during summer session one, so he can finally have longer than a week or two break. He will finish his classes the beginning of July and then not have to go back to school until the fall quarter beginning first of September. This fall he will apply for the graduate program of accounting and the majority of his senior classes will serve as dual credit for the beginning hours of his Masters degree program. How cool is that? Where most graduate programs take two years, he will be able to continue on and finish with just one additional year. Further more - he will have started and finished in four years, while it takes most students to just finish a Bachelors Degree in five years.... He is such a stud!

Each Quarter finished, is one step closer to being done and walking across that stage! We can't wait.

Maternal Outrage.

This morning, on my way to work, I was jamming out to some good ol' Colt Ford (regardless of where I live, I will always love some country music!), when the unthinkable happened. The car in front of me, lost control. My heart about dropped out of my chest and once everything was over, I had to remind myself to breathe. I was an eye witness and so the witness report went something like this:

Vehicle (silver Toyota Camry with Georgia license plate) was traveling west bound on I-20 in the left hand lane. Car swerved off into the left side emergency lane, as though the car was pulling over, car kept going and was almost in the middle of the grass median when the car pulled to the right to get back on the highway. Vehicle ran into the metal barriers on the left hand side of the highway and car spun about 180 degrees before crossing the three lanes of traffic to hit the driver’s side of the car into the concrete barrier that goes over the small creek/river at the “Welcome to Bossier City” sign. Car finally gained control and was completely facing the East in the right side emergency lane. I pulled over and stopped my car on the right side emergency lane and called 911. I spoke with the dispatcher and then to Bossier PD. I thought the vehicle (silver Toyota Camry) was going to keep on driving. The vehicle did not come to a complete stop (even after she hit the concrete barrier) until about 50 feet from the place the vehicle hit on the right side of the interstate. While I was still on the phone with Bossier PD, 2 state trooper (1 car, 1 sedan) came to the scene of the accident. I hung up with 911/Bossier PD and went to the troopers to fill out the witness report. This vehicle contained 1 female driver, and 4-5 children in the back seat of her vehicle. The front seat of her car was full of miscellaneous items (luggage, bags, etc).

Now, just in case you aren't aware, I absolutely love children. David and I hope to have some of our own one day, but in the mean time, apparently God has given me the ability to have a maternal outrage for all the irresponsible drivers out there that do not put their children in the proper car seat while traveling!!! I know, with most things, people would say "just wait until you have kids" - believe me, I promise, when we have children David and I both will do everything in our God given right to protect them at all cost - that INCLUDES while being transported. Period.

Here are a couple of helpful websites that have recall information for vehicles as well as current code/laws for various states as it regards to children and car seats: www.safercar.gov and www.kidsandcars.org  

Just in case you are uninformed or haven't ever looked into it before - if you are traveling through Louisiana - and your children are not in a car seat - you get a $100 ticket - per child. (www.elitecarseats.com)

If you are traveling in any other state, please refer to this website to know what the laws are. Bottom line: before you leave your parking space - make sure your children are properly secure and safe. You never know what could happen.

This message comes to you from the bottom of my heart. Take care of those precious children and be thankful you have them, most importantly, it is your job to not be their friend, but protect them with every fiber in your being!
 

Buckle Up and Safe Driving!!!

 

City Girl

Can I just start by saying I love Dallas. I love everything about being in a city. Some would argue you can take the girl out of the country, but you can't take the country out of the girl..... I would argue you can take the girl out of the city, but you can't take the city out of the girl. :)

When David and I moved out of Dallas we were leaving slightly jaded. We had gone through job loss, housing selling, moving stress, starting school and the list goes on and on. Honestly, I was relieved when David left Countrywide. While that had been his default for all those years and he was very successful at what he did, I just knew somewhere somehow God desired more for us and our life. Looking back now, just in a short two years, we have grown beyond words can describe. We both are on the same page and our future is brighter than it has been ever. It makes me giddy to wake up in the morning to know 'the best is yet to come'. However, I have learned while David enjoys things of the country - I do not.

I have given most things an honest effort to join in and be a part of.....Unfortunately, I simply would rather help an animal, than kill it. I would rather walk across the street to go shopping, than drive 20-50 miles to get to the local Walmart (of ALL things). I would rather wear heels, than 'boy clothes' and mud boots (however, my rain boots do make for a cute alternative). I would rather have my nails done and manicured, than have constant dirt under them. I would rather sleep in any day, than go freeze my butt off in a deer stand and just waist time. I would rather know I could go run outside and not have to worry about loose dogs chasing me because no one follows a leash law, than be followed and near attacked by dogs that are 'protecting the property'. I could go on for days..... I will say though, I love being able to go and shoot a gun anytime I want and not have to drive to a gun range to do so! :) Talk about great therapy.

I am a city girl. Plain and simple. More than that I love being around an obscene amount of people and not knowing anyone, and none of them know (or care) about me. I love having so many options to spend any given night doing. I am not going to lie - I love having pizza (or anything really) with the option of having it delivered to your front door! I love that a city offers diversity and a variety of culture - it is a melting pot. I am completely content in knowing that God didn't create everyone exactly alike - in fact we are all different. That warms my soul. I love that the city doesn't sleep and that at any given hour you can find a local gym open. I love driving 20 minutes and really only going 2 miles. I love everything about being surrounded by masses. Quiet to me is the sound of a distant intersection, or the hustle and bustle of morning commuters. I love that you can drive through 10 cities and not know where one starts and the other stops. I love manicured parks where people can picnic and enjoy time together with family, friends, and their (leashed) dogs. I love the ability to walk places.

While we might had been jaded when we left the city, my heart will always be there. No matter where we live in the future, God made me for city. Don't worry, I have every intention to fulfill the God given desires of my heart.

Investing in Us

This past weekend was incredible. The weekend started on Friday night, and we got pedicures! My toes are gorgeous painted a glitter hot pink :) and David had his buffed. We are 'old' and headed to bed once we were finished.

We spent the day on Saturday just relaxing and casually going through Shreveport. We have some friends of ours from Arcadia that have recently moved to Shreveport, so we spent a majority of the afternoon visiting with them. We love them. This couple has been married for over 65 years and they are more in love today than the first day they met. It is inspiring. My grandparents were good friends with them, and since they are both gone, it is like we (they) have adopted us as their own. We love the attention and they love the company - it is a 'win win' situation. :) Our Saturday also included a trip to Ann Taylor Loft, Target and Hobby Lobby. I had a gift card with a small balance left on it from Ann Taylor so I had to stop by and check out the Loft's great sale right now. I was able to get three different tops for under $60. We got a couple of miscellaneous things from Target and Hobby Lobby. Overall, it was a perfect day for us to just be with each other and spend some quality time together not doing anything specific.

On Saturday evening, I suffered a horrid migriane headache. I think total David and I slept maybe two hours between the two of us! I finally was starting to feel better around 6am Sunday morning and was able to get a couple of hours of sleep that morning. Needless to say, we didn't make church Sunday am, but everyone was understanding and able to cover our responsibilities that we were over that day.

Sunday afternoon was spent relaxing (recovering) and getting ready for the week ahead. David and I both really needed an "us" weekend and even though I didn't feel 100% all weekend - it was a breath of fresh air that we both needed.

Complete!

David and I are officially done with the 2010-2011 school year! I finished with all A's. The hard work paid off! David finished today, so his grades aren't posted, but I can guarantee he did very well.

We have the next two weeks off together and we both could not be more excited to not have anything to do but get to spend time with each other! During finals David and I pretty much try and stay out of each other's way because we tend to be on 'edge' so to speak. :) This weekend will be exciting, because our sole attention we be spent with each other, on each other. I love my hubby so much. We are definitely due for an "us" weekend!

Starting tomorrow David will be coming to spend the day with me at work!  For lunch I am taking him to one of my new favorite places to grab a quick bite: Fairfield Grocery & Market. This place is very well known for it's sandwiches in Shreveport. They only serve breakfast/lunch and they have an outdoor eating patio to die for. I love everything about spring and being able to enjoy the gorgeous weather that we have had this season. Fairfield Grocery has an incredible crab cake sandwich, of which I will be ordering and splitting with David tomorrow. On Friday we are going to spend the evening "dining in" but pamper ourselves with a pedicure. Yes, you read that correctly, David will be getting a pedicure as well - and he LIKES it. The best news is that we both have Saturday off and will spending the day doing whatever we want!!!!! We have some very dear friends that live in Shreveport and since the craziness of finals started we haven't been able to see them, so I can probably guess that will be top on the list! Sunday we will be at church working with our little children. Who knows what else we will get in along the way. I don't really care what we do, just as long as I get to be with David and not have to study for a while I will be completely happy.

 

 

word: finals.

*catch up*

We spent Easter in Dallas with my Mama and Daddy and had by far one of the best holidays together ever. The only thing missing were Aly and Matt. I can't wait to see Aly in July and we will all (6 of us) be back together again in Indiana at Christmas. Since returning from Easter, we have both in the books hard. My finals are now and David's will be next week. We can't wait to finish out this semester/quarter and enjoy our time off together before summer school!

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I hate finals. Everything about the word is dark. Pressure is built in and anxiousness carried out.

Finals.

Ok, really, it isn't that bad... I only have three more 'finals' to go and I will be free as a jay bird for three weeks before summer school starts! I can't wait!! I don't even know what I am going to do with myself..... well, actually I have a good clue. I have two books (real ones, not audio) that I want to read - for pleasure. I am probably going to up my workouts to two a day! YA! As well as DO ANYTHING I WANT. :) I might as well be honest right? This too shall pass and I will be happily on my 'break' before you know it. Naturally, I gave up caffeine this year and have been going strong with that - so decaf tea is what will get me through these next couple of late nights. Talk about mental problem right? Decaf tea... helping me stay awake! BAHA!

David is rocking the world of accounting one class at a time. I am outwardly over the top jealous of his grades and ability to be so stinkin' SMART! Just kidding. I am more proud than anyone on the planet of seriously, how ridiculously smart he is. :) He is in his junior year, and taking his intermediate accounting courses right now. Most people go in scared straight and praying for a 'C' - not David. He is killing these classes with an 'A' or better. Yes, I said or better - because if there was something higher - he would get it! He has already registered for his summer and fall classes. Next summer he will *hopefully* have an internship in Shreveport so we can carpool to work everyday. Summer 2012 will be his last quarter of his undergrad courses, and next fall (yes, just one year from now) he will begin his graduate courses. Right now, his tentative graduation date is August 2013. How incredible is that? Depending on class availabilities it could be pushed back a quarter - but who cares! He will be done sooner than later! You have NO idea how proud I am of my hubby. He rocks my socks off just thinking about all his accomplishments. I am beyond blessed to have him as my true companion.

A real reality check is that next fall I will be applying to law school. Yikes. Although I am doing well in my graduate work and studying like a crazy person for the LSAT - I am still nervous. I know wherever God wants me to attend school - He will open the doors to make all the details fall into place. We are claiming that. Of course there is a strong pull to move back to Dallas, but we are keeping our options open and will move forward from there... that makes me excited!

Trendy & Natural

 

Isn't it funny that not everything has to be 'cured' by a drug? I am all for drugs - in the appropriate setting - but just like so many other elements of this society, we have really gone over board with forgetting how incredible our bodies are! After all, they were created by the GREAT physician Himself!!! Hellllllooooooo. Anyway, just in case you facing some sinus issues or ear aches - I give two thumbs up to both of these products.

Ear candling is by far my new best friend. I have been doing it for several years now and as an experienced ear ache queen (just ask my parents), I can testify that this has been the best thing to possibly happen to me when it comes to me and my hurting ears!

I have 'grown out' of most of my ear problems, but every now and again ear aches creep back into my life. Now, instead of dropping drops, meds, or surgery, I have been able to find extreme relief with ear candles. I am not one to follow "trendy natural" products, but maybe the "trendy natural" people don't have it all wrong..... There is probably a million different opinions on ear candling and other various activities that are similar and how each one is a hoax. All I can say is don't knock it until you try it! After one session, I was made a complete believer. Even if it is all in my head, I don't care - it is the only thing I have ever used to help find relief from nasty ear problems.

Also, with crazy weather, sinus issues galore, I am also a huge fan of the Neti Pot! When you need relief from your sinus cavities acting up, this is has come to my rescue several times.

*Please note, I am suggesting that these product "cure" or "heal" you - I am just merely suggesting, that they made a world of difference for me! :)

Perseverance

I have registered for the last time before I graduate with my Masters Degree!!!! It is really happening! I am really going to walk across that stage. :) I beyond pumped. While all the excitement  has kept me on cloud nine all week, reality has started to set in and the realization of what is ahead.... I have two classes this summer to complete (6 hours), and this fall I will conquer the task of completing four classes (12 hours). Yikes. Before I get too overwhelmed, I have to constantly remind myself how much we are getting off our plate....

David and I have significantly reduced our work load (for various reasons) so that way we can both focus more on studies. I can't wait!!! The hardest thing that I have ever had to learn, no matter the situation, has been patience... I still struggle with it today. However, I am learning and growing in ways that I haven't ever before, and so I have been much more accepting of life as we know it. :) Success isn't defined by how fast you get to a goal, but what you do to in between to accomplish that goal.

I am listening to, yep you guessed it, another audio tape - Between Sundays by Karen Kingsbury. Discovering and enjoying the journey is what this book is all about. That is exactly where David and I am right now. We both have big goals that we will accomplish, however, we are determined to enjoy the ride! December will be here before we know it and we will look back saying, "where did the time go?" or "wow! This season has just flown by!" It happens all the time right?

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Romans 12:12

Crawfish & Initiation

Thursday, April 7, 2011 I got to spend the day with David at Louisiana Tech, where this might not seem very exciting to some, it was an incredible day!

**I apologize ahead of time that the pictures aren't that great of quality as they were taken very quickly and with my cell phone... I was lucky to get the ones that I did!

The College of Business had a crawfish boil.

Enjoying our lunch.... Cajun style!

The reason why this day was so special was because David has officially completed initiation to become part of the Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership and Honors Society! I was one proud wife! (Note: probably the only wife, but still!!!) He is SO smart. :)

Having a day shared with David, was exactly what the doctor ordered! After having some crazy past couple of weeks, spending quality time on a random weekday was perfect on so many levels. I know that David is destined for great things, and I am just thrilled that I get to be along for the ride!! Love you David! 

Just in case you were wondering about ODK please visit their website at http://www.odk.org/.



Be Kind

I am currently reading Karen Kingsbury's new book Unlocked. She tells a story about an autistic boy that is so far extreme on the spectrum of autism that he can not communicate on any level other than by "pex" cards, (basically like flash cards with pictures to associate meaning). His name is Holden. He is a junior in high school.


The story is all about how his private world becomes unlocked. Over and over again God continues to show His face through the miraculous workings of the progress being made by Holden. His mother is a devote follower of Christ and has never given up, even after 15 years of being with a non-communicative child - he wasn't autistic until after his 3rd birthday and a surplus of vaccines were given at one time. As you can imagine, all the friends this young couple had were gone when Holden started to digress and became lost in his own private world. At the beginning of the school year, Holden is walking pass the drama room where a gorgeous blonde headed girl has just been named the lead role of Belle for the school's spring musical. Through a series of events, he gets to join in watching the rehearsals and Belle, real name Ella, and his progress begins.

You have to read the book now. :)

This book got me thinking.....

Don't we all have an inner private world? Do you ever talk and feel like no one listening? How frustrating right? What about the people that are around you that don't understand you and in turn just make fun of you and your quirky actions? On some degree it seems as though we all battle with some kind of label. We have believed what the 'experts' and 'books' say, so nothing is done or we accept where or who we are, instead of challenging ourselves in what Christ has called us to be. Maybe you are a stay at home mom and you aren't fitting with the new moms group, or you have recently moved and can't seem to get connected or plugged in, or you have been defined by society as a 'homeless person' and that means there really isn't any hope for you.

I disagree.

As the person who is seeking to be understood, keep strong in your faith. Stick to the verse Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." You have to believe that God does in fact have incredible plans for YOUR life! As the person who is the moms group, community member, church member, etc - "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted and forgiving, just as God through Christ forgave you." Ephesians 4:32. No one likes to be the person who isn't being understood, but the one that is accepted. This world is too cruel and mean as it is, you never know what people are going through and a kind deed of a simple smile, or "hello" could change everything. Everywhere all of us turn - life is a beat down - filled with drama and negativity. I challenge you today and everyday to be that kind person. The person you would want to randomly walk by you when you are having a hard time. Even though we are strangers to so many, a kind deed can unit us.

I am declaring that I will be the kind, tenderhearted person. I love the Lord and I refuse to allow the negativity and drama and beat down of this world to touch me. I hope you will do the same. You never know when you might get your chance to help change someone's life.

Happy Hump Day! :)

"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." Colossians 3:12

Jealous? I think so!

 As of March 31, 2011 - I, Anna June Adams, have officially 'read' every single Debbie Macomber audiobook that the Bienville Parish Library system has..... Am I cool or what?!

I blogged earlier in the year, that I had found a new friend - audiobooks. David thought I might like them, and when we took our trip to Indiana, I was hooked. He had recommended Debbie Macomber's books, and I so, my love of audiobooks began.

I have throughly enjoyed listening to the following books:

The Perfect Christmas

Back on Blossom Street

Twenty Wishes *listened to it twice, and sent a paperback copy to my mom! LOVED it. :)

A Good Yarn

Hannah's List

A Cedar Cove Christmas

Mrs. Miracle

Summer on Blossom Street

Susannah's Garden

Thursday's at Eight

The Shop on Blossom Street

These are not all the books Debbie Macomber has written, just the ones that are on audio in this parish. David does a couple of new Debbie Macomber audiobooks on order for me! Yes, I know you are probably rolling your eyes, but 90 miles of driving every day, gets lonely, and while it probably sounds like I am headed straight for the looney bin, I have come to love the characters in these books and I really love Debbie Macombers work. I feel like I know her, just because of how she writes. Is that weird? I am sure it is.

Regardless, I have acomplished one of my many goals for this year! I am completely and totally listening to a book a week. By the end of the year, I will have 'read' over 52 books! Isn't that neat? I think it is, that is 50 more books than I read last year. :)

Anyway, if you are ever in the mood for a light hearted, upbeat, feel good, easy read - anything that Debbie Macomber writes is incredible!

Enjoy.

Footprints

Regardless of what is happening in my life, I am always encouraged, in sometimes the smallest ways that Christ is with me. Even the weeks that I know without a shadow of a doubt that He is carrying me through, somehow we continue to walk forward. God promises takes care of the birds, so what are we worried about? He totally has us covered. Life isn't always a bowl of peaches, but hopefully you can read this poem and be reminded that He is with you, always.

Happy Monday! Have a wonderful week. :)

Our Path

With only five weeks left of this semester, I couldn't be more excited to be done with these classes! I was so pumped to start the semester, but naturally, I am ready to be done. David and I can't wait for the summer. We have so many fun things planned, plus I love summer!


As we continue to move forward with our goals, we have clung to this scripture:
 
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And he shall direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5
 
We have so much to be thankful for and constantly are counting our blessings. God is incredible with all that He provides!
 
David has officially been accepted into his two different honors societies. He is doing extremely well in all of his courses this quarter and is being reviewed for three different scholarships. David is one of the most incredible men of God I know. I am so proud to call him my husband.
 
As the reality of me graduating in December is slowly but surely coming to fruition, the more excited I am to accomplish my Master's Degree. I will continue working at the Shreveport Bossier Rescue Mission, as they are tranisitioning me into a new position once I have obtained my degree this winter.I love my job and am so thankful for this place. The Mission has taught me so many life lessons. Some I wanted to learn, while others I needed to learn. I have and continue to witness first hand the incredible redemption of Christ to so many. He speacializes in redeeming broken people! Isn't that great news?! Life is hard and I see that daily. I am so thankful we have a Savior that cares for us even when we think there is no hope, directon or way out. He's got our back - always! :) 
 
With the desire to attend law school, still very much a part of my life, David and I are moving forward with school visits and prayer of where we, collectively, will want to move. We are estatic about what the future holds and all the possibilities that are out there! One step at a time, we faithfully will follow.