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Day-18......11/18/99-Never Forget

Friday, November 18, 2011

Today I am thankful to be an Aggie. I say it often-going to Texas A&M was one of the best decisions that I've ever made in my life.  During those years in College Station, I made some of the best of friends, grew closer to friends that I grew up with, made the most incredible memories, and was able to know about "The Spirit can ne'er be told...."  I'm so proud to be apart of the Aggie family.  If you aren't an Aggie, you don't get it, you'll never get it, and that's okay.  You can think we are crazy, & I've heard many describe it  as "cult-like".  Say what you will, but you've never been apart of something so great & indescribable.

Every year on this day we, the Aggie family, remember those whose lives were taken & forever changed when the Bonfire collapsed.  And today is no different...

"There will never be a moment when we accept a loss so great.  There will never be a day when we are again willing to pay a price so high.  There will never be a November 18th that we do not stand in silence and feel emptiness. Their names and faces will never leave the hearts of those who knew them, or were here when tragedy struck, but now there is security that tomorrow will not forget them either.  They are history here, strong like the Century Tree, heavy like Muster, honorable like the Corps, Spirited like the Aggie Band, dedicated like the student body, and forever burning like the Bonfire they proudly built." -Jessica Cannon '06









11-18-99 | 2:42am 
We will never forget....

Day 17

17-I'm thankful for the beautiful weather that we had today.  The crisp cool air puts a spring in my step & joy in my heart.

24 Day Challenge

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Yes, I know....another post about working out, dieting, but guess what...this one is different b/c I completed the challenge & it works!!! 24 days ago a friend called me and wanted me to go on this journey with her.  She is getting married in the spring and wanted to give Advocare a try.  So I thought why not?  What do I have to lose, expect pounds?!?!  So, we signed up, and I'm so glad that I did!!!

The first 10 days of the challenge is a cleanse phase.  The first 3 mornings & the last 3 mornings of your cleanse phase you drink a glass of fiber (mix it with your OJ & it's not bad to choke down),  have a meal replacement shake (mine were chocolate & they were yummy!), some vitamins( OmegaPlex, Herbal Cleanse), SPARK (the most amazing energy drink ever!) and eat lean proteins & veggies.

Within the first 24 hours, I could feel a difference.  I was satisfied, and full of energy...amazing energy, energy that I haven't had since long before Emma was born.  My cravings for sweets were gone within the first 48 hours, and I really have only had one day when I craved some chocolate during the 24 day challenge.

Next is the Max Phase or Burn Phase---during this phase, your body is clean & ready to absorb all of the vitamins that your body needs.  I continued with my meal replacement shake, SPARK, and then my vitamin pack, and continued to eat lean proteins, veggies, and I added in whole grains, and dairy back into my diet.  The way to look at this portion of the challenge & taking all of these vitamins is this....your body is like a sponge.  A sponge has a lot of tiny holes in them, our body is the same way.  No matter how much of a well balanced diet we eat, there will still be holes in our body, so we take this vitamin pack to fill those holes & give us the optimum nutrition.

Now, I didn't get to work out every day like I had hoped--only 2-3x per week.  And there were some days that it was hard to eat right because we were traveling a lot during this time, but I was able to make healthier choices, and watch my portion control & that's a huge step for me.  So I'd say I was on 75-80% of the time.  And my energy level is still HUGE & my cravings for sweets are GONE...yes, GONE!!! I feel that now I can go into the holiday season & make healthy choices for myself & know that they are going to add the inches back onto my waist line. So, are you ready for my results......
I lost a total of 6.8 lbs. and 8.75 inches!!  I went from a size 12/14 to a loose 10!   Other people on the challenge have lost a lot more than me, but I'm proud of myself, and amazed at the amount of energy that I have!  I've learned so much about myself through this process.  And I can't wait to continue my journey with Advocare!  My goal is to lose about 10 more lbs. and tone this body up!

Do you want to take the 24 Day Challenge?  Leave a comment or email me at ashley.moore06@gmail.com & I can answer any questions you have & help you get started to creating a new you!!!

15 & 16

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

15-I'm thankful for the amazing family that I married into.  The Moore's are such a close knit group, which I truly love.  I love the Moore Family Night Dinner tradition every Tuesday, the candid conversations around the table, the laughter, and the nephews-they are hilarious!  Words can't describe how great I think each of them are.  I'm so blessed by each one of them and our time together!

16-I'm so thankful that I get to stay home with Emma.  I loved teaching, but as my 5 years were upon me, I slowly didn't find fulfillment in my job.  I didn't look forward to going to work or staying late for that matter.  But I'm grateful that I had 5 great years of teaching.  I think parts of it really prepared me for motherhood--like having to be organized & planning ahead.  I love every moment of being a mom---IT'S SO HARD, yet, so REWARDING!  I love being able to be the first person Emma sees in the morning.  I love breakfast with her, lunch, reading books, snuggling, kisses, and that precious smile.  The good outweighs the bad!  And I've learned so much about myself being a mom.  So, thanks to Matt for working so hard to let me be able to stay home.  And all PRAISE BE TO GOD for allowing me to be a mom.

Thankfulness-Days 11-14

Monday, November 14, 2011

11-I am thankful for my sweet grandparents.  I could write about all of them for days, but I'll keep this short. I'm thankful that I got to know my poppy before he passed & spend time with him.  I'm thankful for Granny and her vibrant personality & love.  I'm so thankful for Maw Maw & Paw Paw-for their wisdom & knowledge.  I'm thankful that I was able to know all 4 of my grandparents and that Emma has gotten to meet 3 of them.  What a blessing!

12-I'm thankful for weekends at the ranch with family.  There is something about being out in the country that's so good for the soul.  Sweet, wonderful time with one another & no technology.

13-I'm thankful for lazy weekends with the family.  This weekend was one of them-I love knowing that it'll be okay if everything on my to-do list doesn't get done.  I love being snuggled up on the couch with Matt & Emma and loving on them.

14-I'm thankful for Mondays & getting back into the routine of things.  As much as I love being lazy, I love being able to mark things off my to-do list.

Day 10

Thursday, November 10, 2011

I'm normally not much of a morning person, but since Emma arrived she has forced me to be.  And really & truly, I haven't been that pleasant of a morning person until about 17 days ago.  17 days ago, I started the Advocare 24 Day Challenge.  The first few days were hard, but then my energy level shot out of the roof.  If you want to know more about the 24 Day Challenge-check it out here!  The other thing I started doing was getting up at 5am...yes, you read that right 5AM!  I figured if I get going at 5, by the time Emma gets up I'd have a lot of things done around the house. I get up, have my Spark (Advocare Energy Drink) and have my quiet time.  It's great really---me, my Bible, and a little time with the Good Man upstairs.  I have been blessed & refreshed by this time & I don't plan on stopping.  My heart is full, my relationship with the Lord is growing, and I'm a more pleasant person throughout the day. 

So today, I'm thankful for my morning quiet times.  Refreshing. Quiet. Rested time with my Lord. 

"In the morning, O Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation." - Psalm5:3

Day 9

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Cooler weather....Yes, I am so thankful for the cooler weather that arrived over night and all the rain we received yesterday.  The Lord knew we needed it.  Fall & winter are my most favorite times of the year-cool weather, blankets, scarves, hot chocolate, snuggling, fallen leaves. Don't get me wrong, I love summer, but the winter is my favorite. It refreshes my soul.

"Praise the Lord, O my soul.  I will praise the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live." -Psalm 146:1-2

Day 8

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Words cannot describe how blessed I am to have married into such a wonderful, loving family.  Today, I'm thankful for my in-laws. They. Are. Great.  Every Tuesday Bubby & Papa take Emma for the day for me.  It gives me a chance to grocery shop, run errands, finish projects, therapy, dr. appointments, and even an occasional mani/pedi.  Then we end the day by having the entire family at their house for dinner.  What a blessing!  Today is no different....physical therapy, groceries, errands, dentist appt. and tons of crafting to do.  I love Emma, but I do look forward to Tuesdays & the fast paced, peace & quiet it gives me to refresh and get organized!

"For you make me glad by your deeds, O Lord; I sing for joy at the works of your hands.  How great are your works, O Lord, how profound your thoughts!" -Psalm 92:4-5

Thankful-Days 5, 6, 7

Monday, November 7, 2011

Day 5- I'm so thankful for wonderful weekends in West Texas.  Being able to get out of the busy city & refresh your mind & soul with the simple things in life is the greatest.  I'm so thankful for the time we had this weekend with my family out at our ranch.  Morning hunts have always been my favorites--cool weather, peacefulness, the sunrise, the sounds of the country, and quiet time with my dad.


Day 6-I'm thankful for my church family.  I'm a member of Houston's First Baptist Church and have been for a few years.  This year I was really looking for support & encouragement from new moms, like myself, so I dove right in and got involved with the Motherwise Bible study & our MOPS group.  I have been so blessed by both.  Motherwise was an incredible Bible study where I learned so much more about my role as a mother & wife, and where I also meet some other amazing young moms going through the same struggles that I'm facing in this season of life.  And I met wonderful godly women who have had children & are now grandmothers, and they have taught me so much.  Ms. Becky, my mentor mom, has blessed my life so much.  Her faithfulness to the Lord, her husband, and her children inspire me to be that kind of mom.

Day 7- I'm thankful for my sweet friends.  In this life I have had some truly incredible friends.  For some of those friends life has taken us down different paths and we don't talk much anymore, others who I may not talk with or haven't talked to in months, but I know if I ever needed anything they'd be there, and those that I see and talk with on a regular basis.  I thank God for all of them.  Each of them, whether the last time I talked to them was 3 years ago or yesterday, have touched my life in so many ways.  They've helped me get through some rough times.  They've made me laugh, cry, and have encouraged me.  I have many memories of wonderful friends-those who have passed on & those who are still here with us today.  Thank you all for sharing your life & friendship with me!

"Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.  Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits..." Psalm 103:1-2

Thanksgiving-Day 4

Friday, November 4, 2011

I am thankful for my wonderful, sweet, loving parents.  They have been a constant support , encouragers, friends, and source of love for the last 27 years.  They have shown me the importance of family, living a life with God, and unconditional love.  They have pressed on in their marriage of 30 years and have never given up.  They know the meaning of this covenant that they made & fight for it.  They set boundaries for me as a kid, which I'm so thankful for, because there are so many parents that don't do this for their children.  They are amazing parents, and over the last 10 months I watch in awe as they have become amazing grandparents.  Emma is blessed to have them in her life, and so am I. My cup runneth over.

"I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of your wonders.  I will be glad and rejoice in you;I will sing praise to your name, O Most High." - Psalm 9:1-2

"Give thanks to the Lord..."

Thursday, November 3, 2011

It's the 3rd day of November, already....where has time gone?  I intended to begin this post on the 1st, but lets play catch up. November....Thanksgiving....I have so many things I'm thankful for, and I plan to post one of those things daily. The Lord has blessed me so much, and I'm so grateful!

"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."-Psalms 118:29

1-I'm thankful that God sent His son to earth to die for me, so that I can live eternally with Him.  I don't deserve it....never will, but He loves me anyway.  I'm thankful for His unfailing love, His constant presence in my life, and His goodness.  He is so good!

2-I'm thankful for my sweet husband, Matt.  He loves me, challenges me, supports, encourages, works so hard, and puts up with me.  He is the love of my life and best friend.  I'm so thankful that God sent him into my life when he did (His timing is always perfect & He is so good!), and for choosing me to be Matt's life partner, supporter, encourager, friend, and wife.

3-I'm so thankful that God has blessed me and chose me to be Emma's mom.  There has been no greater job.  My cup runneth over with love for that sweet little girl.  She has brought so much love and joy into our lives.  I've learned so much about myself & about my job as her mother.  Words will never be able to express the love that I have for her.  Thank you, God, for my sweet Emma!!!

"I will give thanks to the Lord because of his righteousness and will sing praises to the name of the Lord Most High." -Psalms 7:17

crazy life, busy life makes for a bad blogger

Friday, October 28, 2011

I know....it's been a while, a long while since I last posted.  What can I say life has been a little crazy.  What have we been up to?  Since my last post, I was rear ended & was without a car for over a month, going to physical therapy 2-3 times a week, Bible study once a week, MOPS every other Wednesday, our sweet, once non-mobile 7 month old has become mobile.  We've been to Brady, Round Top, Dallas, Houston, back to Dallas, Rock Springs, the State Fair...do you get the picture yet?  I promise that I will get caught up...promise....eventually.  Right now I'm working on updating my blog for Emma-I've gotten two posts done this morning already & it's only 8am.  

My parents will be in town in a few short hours & I can't wait to spend with weekend with them.  Emma is pretty excited too!  

Y'all make it a great Friday!  

Lunch on the Prairie (insert HUGE smile & HAPPY sigh)

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Anyone who knows me knows how much I LOVE anything rustic and shabby chic! I love creating my own shabby chic decor and I love getting inspiration and admiring other's versions of it.  And I'm so excited about being one of 35 bloggers who gets to meet the "inventor" of shabby chic, Rachel Ashwell, at the end of the month, at her new B&B, The Prairie, in Round Top, TX.


 I am beyond estatic--meet & greet with Rachel, network and lunch with the other amazing bloggers who were able to snag a spot on this exclusive event, enjoy the delicious food from Royer's Cafe, take in all the fabulous decor, shop, and relax a little in the country---sigh!  Can I get a WHOOP?!?!  And the best part about this trip is I get to experience it all with my sweet, sweet friend Jessi from The Reel World Texas, who I swear we were separated at birth because of our love of all things shabby chic!  Have I said how excited I am?

Ministry of Motherhood-Week 4

Monday, June 13, 2011



"Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing.  My brothers, this should not be." -James 3:10


As we entered into Week 4 of Ministry of Motherhood, I found it really hard to relate to what the discussions were about.  As a mother of a 5 month old, I haven't dealt with discipling my daughter yet.  But this week gave me a lot to think about.  The verse above, James 3:10, really hit home this week.  In her book, Sally talked about how we spoke to our children and the words we said about them.  Would the children hear praise coming from their parent's mouths about them or would they hear words that tore them down?  Right now, I can tell you that there isn't too many negative things to say about my precious 5 month old, besides that her poo stinks really bad, or that she is pretty grumpy while teething.  But I know those days of being annoyed by them will come.

Sally's words and this verse hit home with me this week about my husband.  I get irritated with him, lose my patience with him, like so many of us do.  My thought this week---will my children hear negative things about my husband coming from my mouth?  Or would I be the wife that waited until the time was right to speak to my husband about whatever it is that's bothering me?

My prayer this week is that I am a wife and mother who lifts both my children and husband up with my words and not tear them down.

Sizzling Summer

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Hello Beautiful Ladies!

Happy June!!  I am so excited to share with you some of the amazing things that I'm offering this month with Stella & Dot! You don't want to miss out on these deals!!! 

#1-Style for a Steal---HUGE SALE!!!
We are making room for the Fall Collection that is coming out in July-prices are being marked down daily---up to 50% OFF!!! 
 Remember these pieces are being retired---GET THEM WHILE THE LAST!!!
Shop Online at www.stelladot.com/amoore06


#2-The New RENEGADE COLLECTION is HERE!!!

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#3-Virtual Trunk Show & Mystery Hostess
I'm having an online trunk show & you can WIN all of the HOSTESS REWARDS!!!  
Ways to Enter:
     1. Place on order online at www.stelladot.com/amoore06 
Click on 'Find Your Hostess'
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And Begin Shopping!
& then.....
     2. Post the Virtual Trunk Show Info on your blog.  
     3. If your readers makes a purchase have them comment on this post with your name. (You'll be entered every time someone buys and gives you credit!) 
Last day to be entered is Friday, June 24th.  The Mystery Hostess will be announced on Saturday, June 25th!!! 

#4 Host a Show 
This can be a virtual show if you aren't in the Houston or DFW area
in June, July, or August
&
*Get a fabulous Thirty-One Mini Zipper Pouch for FREE!
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*Earn TONS in FREE jewelry & items at 50% OFF!
*When you get between $200-$500 in sales outside of your show you will get a fabulous Thirty-One Tote FREE
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I hope you all have an amazing month!!! Feel free to contact me with any questions you may have!  I can't wait for you all to take advantage of all of these offers!!!  

Ashley Moore, Independent Stylist amoore06.jewels@gmail.com 


Tuesdays at Bubby's

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

I am so blessed to have such amazing in-laws.  Every Tuesday my mother & father-n-law, Bubby and Papa Tom, keep the grandkids.  It's such a blessing to me to have a few hours in the week to myself and to be able to get some errands done.  Here are a few pictures from this week at Bubby's! 

Emma & Cousin Max


Ministry of Motherhood-Week 2

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

*Sorry that I didn't get this posted on Friday! :( 


WOW-I can't tell you how excited and blessed I have been in these first 2 weeks of the Good Morning Girls book study of The Ministry of Motherhood by Sally Clarkson.  If you are a mom and haven't started, do it this week! You will NOT regret it!

"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.  And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."- Matthew 28:19-20

As I read the introduction to the book this past week I had a revelation....

I remember when I was 15 being at a youth conference in Fort Worth, Texas.  Mercy Me hadn't hit it big yet, they were the praise and worship band for the event (about 12 years ago).  Anyways, I remember at the end of the weekend I heard God speaking to me.  He wanted me in the ministry...where?  I didn't know....how?  I had no clue...but I said yes.

Now if you remember from my post last week, I did my own thing when I went off to college, but I never forgot that moment.  So here I am a 27 year old mom doing this book study, and it hits me smack in the face-my ministry is to my children.

Before I was pregnant I knew that I would raise my children in a Christian home, teaching them about God, how to pray, taking them to church, but I never before thought of it as a ministry.  But as I read the introduction to the book and the scriptures for the week, my perspective of motherhood totally changed.  The ministry of motherhood is so much more than just teaching them about God, but showing them by your actions, words, etc about His grace, His love, His mercy, and how they can have a real relationship with him.  I'm suppose to be equipping them with the tools, so that they can be disciples of the Lord.

WOW-what an important role for all mothers.  Motherhood is a MINISTRY!  It is my prayer that God transforms my heart to be more like His, so I can show my children His love, grace, mercy through my thoughts, words, and actions.  Living so others and my children see Christ in me.

Ministry of Motherhood Book Club-Week 1

Tuesday, May 24, 2011


Earlier this week I ran across the Good Morning Girls blog, and I am so thankful that I stumbled upon it, as we are getting ready to do our Parent Commitment at church. What a great way to prepare my mind, heart, and focus on the task at hand.  The wonderful women from GoodMorningGirls.Org have started a Summer Book Club, reading "The Ministry of Motherhood" by Sally Clarkson.  I was a week behind since I started this week, but I have caught up, and I have to say that I have been so blessed in this first week.  Everyday we spend sometime in The Word reading specific verses and reflecting on them.  And this week we read the introduction to the book.  I'm already hooked and so excited to see what God has in store for the next 12 weeks.  Each week I plan on posting my reflections for the week.

Since I missed last week here is last weeks verses that really spoke to me....

"My son, keep your father's commands and do not forsake your mother's teaching. Bind them upon your heart forever; fasten them around your neck.  When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep they will watch over you; when you wake, they will speak to you."
 - Proverbs 6:20-22

These verses really hit home with me.  My father didn't attend church with my mother, brother, and I until I was in junior high.  My mother was the first to teach me about God and His amazing love.  She made sure that my brother and I were in church every time the doors opened.  She worked so hard in her life to be an example of God's love and grace.  Then once my dad became a Christian church became a family affair.  My parent's were always so supportive of me.  They taught me to have compassion for others, and never be afraid to stand up for what I believe in.  I am so blessed to have such amazing parents.  As I matured in my faith and began a real relationship with Christ they stood behind me, encouraged me, and prayed for me.  But after high school graduation I went my own way.  I turned away from God, and did things that pleased me instead of him.  I never doubted his love or salvation, or forgot all of those things that my parents taught me, I chose to do things my way instead of his.  You can say I took a break from God.  But thank God he never took a break from me.  After 5 years of doing things my way, I decided to turn back to him.  And as I have entered into a new season of my life as a wife and mother I see how important it is for me to teach my precious daughter about the amazing God I serve.  It is my greatest responsibility.  There isn't a doubt in my mind that if my mother hadn't taught me about Him and made sure I was in church every time the doors opened, I'd be living a life apart from him.  And my daughter would never get to know Christ and His amazing grace, love, and faithfulness.  

It is my prayer that I am a visible representation of a (physically) invisible God to my husband, daughter, and all those around me.  I pray for strength, patience, and focus as we journey through the Bible and this book study.  And I pray for all of the other mother's who are doing this book study as well; I pray that God opens the eyes of all of our hearts and teaches us how to be the mother's he designed us to be.  


Interested in being apart of the book study?  Jump on over to the Good Morning Girls  blog and get started!

Kitchen Remodel Pics...

Friday, May 6, 2011

After 2 full weeks of renovations we are finally wrapping up (cabinet hardware being put on today and new dishwasher is being installed on Wednesday)!!! YAY!!!  I'm so in love! Who would have thought that knocking down 4 cabinets and adding some recess lighting could make such a difference, then there is new granite and backsplash!
Check out our progress.....

Before (again, not my decor)

Pot rack gone & recess lighting in.

 Before...Bar with cabinets

Demo...cabinets gone! :) 

Bar without pendants

Pendants Installed

Sink before....

New FARMHOUSE SINK!!! 


Before-view from office

After


Next week I will post final pictures with the new dishwasher, hardware, and all my stuff back up!  Did I mention that I'm in love with this new kitchen?!?!?!  

Weekly Weigh In

Friday, April 22, 2011

There is no doubt about it breastfeeding is the best way to lose weight!  Yes, I've been doing WW for the past 10 weeks, but I haven't been hitting it hardcore.  Like I've said in earlier posts, traveling makes it so hard to stay on track, so Emma has been my key to success!  This week I lost another 1.4lbs and I'm down a total of 13.4!  I can't believe it...I'm into my skinny pre-pregnancy jeans & I'm 7lbs. below my pre-pregnancy weight!  I'm feeling great-now to get my sweet daughter to sleep through the night & I might have energy to workout.

Thanks so everyone for your support!

Kitchen Remodel

Thursday, April 14, 2011

After being in our house for 2 years, the Mr. and I have decided to update our kitchen.  We aren't doing a ton, but what we are going to do is going to make a huge difference.  
-Granite
-New backsplash
-Recess lighting
-Farmhouse Sink
-Knocking out some cabinets
-New cabinet hardware

Oh, I can't wait!  Yesterday the electricians were here and they installed a new light in the hall, new outlets in the garage & added our recess lighting!  Oh what a difference it has already made.  


Before recess (note: these pictures were taken before we moved in, this is not our decor.)

After pot rack is down & recess up

Doesn't it look bigger already?!?!  I'm so excited to get the rest of it done.  The Mr. and I will spend next weekend cleaning out the kitchen cabinets & get ready for the renovation.  WOOOHOO! More before and after pics to come! 


What a Week!

Thursday, April 7, 2011

Life has been pretty hectic and crazy busy these past few weeks.  Last week I went back home to visit my family and also do some shopping at First Monday Trade Days in Canton, TX.  It was a beautiful weekend and I got so much stuff at Canton-an antique trunk for Em's toys, a chicken coop to hang outside and put flowers in, my paw paw made me a hutch for the backyard to put potted plants on...now I just need to get some of it sanded and painted and buy some more plants.  I'll post pics as soon as it's done.

We had a wonderful time hanging out with the family.  They can't get enough of sweet Emma.  Dad took her on her first 4-wheeler ride and she was in love.  My mom cooked a huge dinner for all of us one night and it was fabulous.  My WW went out the window last week-corny dogs at Canton, Momma's cooking, Crandall Mexi, and a Paula Deen dessert that was out of this world.  So today at weigh in I was scared to death.  I knew I had gained, but I didn't, in fact, I lost.....4 lbs!!!! I've hit my 5% goal and down a total of 9.8 lbs! I couldn't believe it and I think I'm still in shock!!! Guess I'll keep doing what I have been doing, minus the junk food, and pray that I continue to lose.  I'm now working on my 10% goal, which is 9 more lbs.

This weekend I'm having my launch trunk show for my new Stella & Dot business.  I hope it goes well and I have a decent turn out, but I have a feeling that I'm not.  Everyone has busy Saturdays and I've only gotten 6 RSVP's that are coming.  Say a prayer that it goes well for me.

I hope you have had a great week!  What are your plans this weekend?

a must read

Wednesday, March 16, 2011


Have you heard of The Pioneer Woman?  If not, get with the program!!! Cousin Rachel gave me The Pioneer Woman's Cookbook this year for Christmas, and I love it so much!  Since I'm doing WW right now I haven't been cooking out of it much, but I did get to try the Sour Cream Pancakes-they are slap your momma good and oh so easy to make!!! The recipes are fantastic, but the story behind the recipes is even better.  The Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond, has written another soon to be best seller.  Black Heels to Tractor Wheels is her love story.  It's so beautifully written-it will make you laugh hysterically and even cry.  It even made me want to get out of the city and get back to my roots out in the country.  It's a MUST read!!!  

be the person you want to be married to

For you married folks, how many times a day do you complain about things that your wife/husband does or doesn't do.  If you are like me, it seems that I get upset many times about things that I wish my husband would/woudn't do-be more romantic, do things without being asked, plan a date night, pick up his shoes...this list could go on. And I'm sure he has a list about things that he'd wish I'd do too.

Today in my quiet time I reflected on my marriage as I looked back on some notes from a sermon Gregg Matte, pastor at First Baptist Houston, talked about marriage.  I read Genesis 24-the story of Issac & Rebekah.  Abraham, Issac's father, sends his servant out to find Issac a wife.  Pastor Gregg talked about how marriage is the most important relationship on earth (Hebrews 13:4; Ephesians 5:31-33), because it models what a church & Christ relationship should look like.

Then there were two key points in my notes that really hit home with me today.  #1 Do you remember when you were single and how you longed to be married?  I do, as ladies, we think about our future husbands and wedding day from the time we are little girls.  I remember dressing up in my mom's wedding dress and thinking about the man I would one day marry.  I also remember praying for the man that would one day become my husband.  And I'll never forget the day that I met my husband and knew that he was different.  I knew he'd be the one I'd married, although I wasn't truly convinced on our first date.  I recall all the time we spent together before we were married talking about how much we loved one another and what life would be like once we were married. We both knew that we were perfect for one another. But after the butterflies go away & the honeymoon is over, during the hustle of our daily lives, we sometimes forget the reasons why we married our spouse.  It's so easy to think of their faults, instead of focusing on the positive things about them.  For me, I forget to thank my husband for working so hard so I get to be a stay at home mom; he's faithful, loving, provider, my best friend, supporter, a listening ear, and a wonderful father.

The second point that really made me stop and think was BE THE PERSON YOU WANT TO BE MARRIED TO.  WOW!  I focus on all the things I'd like to change or wish that my husband would do, but I need to be looking at myself.  Do I do the things I want him to do?  No, I know I don't, and why not?  I need to work at being the best wife I can be and being someone that I would want to be married to.  "Wives submit to your husbands, as it is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh on them." -Colossians 3:18-19  So they way I see it, I need to submit myself to my husband, love him, and not be harsh on him, because I need to be the person I would want to be married to-that's my focus this week.

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men." -Colossians 3:23  I ask that you pray that I work at being a better wife for my husband, and for me to focus on the positive things about him instead of looking at the negative things.  I ask the Lord to help me be the person I want to be married to.

Matt-I know I don't tell you enough, but I love and appreciate you more than you'll ever know.  Thank you for working so hard to provide for us, for being my best friend, being faithful, and loving me no matter what, and being an amazing father.  I know I'm stubborn and sometimes hard to live with, but as Eric Church says, "When it comes to lovin' me you make it look so easy."  I love you!

Not in my Blood

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

With all the changes that I'm making in my life, running was one of my goals.  I started C25K 2 weeks ago.  Week 1 was great; I even decided to do it again so my husband could join me.  The Mr. has quit smoking (almost 2 months) and has also decided to run.  This morning, I got up bright and early, feed the baby, and got ready for my run-Week 2 Day 1 of C25K (90 seconds of running, then 90 seconds of walking for a total of 20 minutes).  OMG-I was dying after 2 intervals.  Now with the excuses....pollen is out so my allergies were acting up, for the past 10 months (pregnancy) I didn't do anything, except maybe walk, it was really windy, it was early.....oh this list could go on forever.  After killing myself for 15 minutes, I decided that I'm NOT and NEVER will be a runner.  I hated running long distances when I was in high school and in the best shape of my life.  I don't know what made me think that now at 27 I'd love it.  I know you are thinking, "But you are giving up so quick?!?!" Yep, I am.  It's just not in my blood. I would love to love to run.  My sister-n-law is a runner-loves to run, and she runs a lot-6 to 10 miles at a time.  I wish I could be like that, but I'm not.  So now I'm looking for a new means of exercise.

I am a dancer-love it!!!  I started dancing at the age of two and it has been a passion ever since.  Dancing is a totally different work out than running, a different type of stamina is required.  I can't run for 90 seconds straight, but I could dance for 4 minutes-leaps, turns, the whole 9 yards.  So now I'm changing my workout.  If I'm going to work out, I might as well do something I love-right?  I'm now on the search for dance classes.  The only thing that isn't so convenient with dance classes is that Emma can't tag along, so I'll have to find a sitter or do it at night when the Mr. can watch her.  Wish me luck!

WW-Week 1 & 2

Friday, March 4, 2011

The past two weeks there have been many changes that have happened in my life-working out daily and eating healthy!!!  I'm proud to say that in my first week of Weight Watchers I lost 3lbs!!! The Mr. and I cleaned out our kitchen and filled our pantry & fridge with healthy food-tons of fruits and veggies!  I also started running-well kinda, I got the app. Couch 2 5K on my phone and have started training.  It feels good to get out and take care of myself, especially with this beautiful weather we have been having.  Emma has really been enjoying our daily runs.

This past week was full of social events-dinner with friends, visit from my mom, rodeo cook-off, and the Athon wedding.  It was a challenging week to watch my food intake.  You can't go to rodeo cook-off without eating the BBQ and drink a little.  I did good though, but it was the wedding that got me!  It was my first "real" night out with friends and the Mr. offered to be my DD. We had a ton of fun, but I knew that I'd pay for it at weigh in, so I really amped up my workout this week.  No excuses, I had to run everyday.  I'm proud the report that I still lost this week, not a ton, but it's better than gaining.

I'm refocused and ready to take the week ahead. Hope you all have a great weekend!!!

Changes & Challenges

Saturday, February 19, 2011

It's been a while since I posted; I've been a little preoccupied with the sweetest little girl.  I'm very happy to report that my Dr. has finally released me to begin physical activity again...woohoo!  I've been itching to work out and make some changes in my life.

Today is the day that I begin a new lifestyle-- I'm heading to my first Weight Watchers meeting.  I've done Weight Watchers before, and I know without a doubt that it works.  The last time I started it I wasn't fully ready to take on the challenge.  At this point in my life I have decided that it's time to make some huge changes in the way I eat and work out.  I'm not only doing it for me, but also for the sweet little girl that's laying in my arms.  I want to be able to teach her how to take care of herself, so she never has to worry with body image issues like I have.

One of my dear friends and old roommate began her WW journey back in July, and as of today she is down 60 lbs.  I'm so proud of her.  She has been a huge inspiration.  My overall goal for weight loss is 45 lbs, but this time it's more about making a lifestyle change than losing the weight. I know if I make this change the weight will melt away.

Please keep me in your prayers as I begin this journey.

Happy 1 Month, Sweet E

Friday, February 4, 2011

I can't believe that Emma was one month old yesterday.  Where has time gone?  What did we do before her?  Matt and I have been blessed with such a wonderful little girl.  We are in awe of her.

On Monday, E and I headed to Crandall to visit with my family.  She got to meet her Uncle G & LoLo for the first time, as well as lots of the Cousins' family.  It was a pretty boring couple of days, because we were hit with the Arctic Blast.  Crandall got a few inches of ice, so were were stuck inside for a few days.  Yesterday before heading back to Houston, we had Emma's newborn pictures taken.  Allison Andrews was our photographer, and we had such a great time taking these pictures.  Allison was so patient with Emma, and she captured some of the most amazing shots.  I highly recommend using Allison for your photography needs. She is extremely talented, just take a look for yourself. Check out her website jallisonandrews.com

Here are a few of the photos....



The Day that Changed My Life Forever

January 3, 2011 at 7:13pm, the most precious little girl arrived into this world.  After a long 12 hours of labor and little progress my Dr. finally decided the only way Emma would arrive was by c-section.  Everything went very smoothly, and we finally got to meet our little girl.   Here are a few pictures of those first few days in the hospital.  

Daddy meeting E for the first time! 

So emotional, but oh so proud! 



 First bottle


NeeNee & Pops seeing their first grandchild. 


 Mom holding E for the first time. 

 Ready to head home! 

These first few weeks have been such a blessing, and we are in awe of her.  We have enjoyed every minute of watching Emma grow.  I can hardly believe that she is already one month old.  (Sorry it's taken me so long to blog, but we've been a little busy!) I'm adding a page to this blog where I will post pics and log what's going on in Miss Emma's life. 


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