P.S. Girls night out...

Last night Tiawanna (my sister), Janet (our friend visiting from Washington state), and I went out for girls' night and we had a blast! We went to Sand Hills to see "P.S. I Love You!" and it was the most awesome movie!!!! (FYI--if you go see this movie bring plenty of tissue) We now have IRELAND FEVER!!! We want to go!! Then we went to Books-a-Million for dessert and just happened to find PRINCE CHARMING! He almost reminded me of my sweetheart which by the way cannot be matched -- but this one was pretty sharp! He's quite cute, is an excellent listener, does not argue with you, brings you flowers at EVERY encounter, and SINGS to you anytime you wish! Wow! Yep, alot of the same qualities as Joseph--I told Tiawanna this prince is probably a definite keeper! (I think I'll sneak back and get him for her!!) Happy Day!

Surprise Christmas gift from my sweetheart...

Last night I had a really neat surprise! Joseph has been on his 4 day (Monday-Thursday) stretch at work through the holiday, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Yesterday was his last day and he'd asked the kids if he could take Mom out Thursday night when he got off work and of course they said yes, please. All he'd tell me was dress comfortably. When he picked me up he asked what I'd like to stop and get for dinner and this made me a little curious -- Joseph loves dinner out! Ha! I thought dinner out or maybe dinner and a movie...I was a little puzzled. We decided on Rush's and it was so romantic!! (Just goes to show that anywhere can be a very romantic place if you're with the right person and they treat you the right way--it was a very fun meal! We laughed and talked and had a great time eating dinner. Then he sorta "slipped" and told me our 9:00 PM plans and it was amazing! Two years ago he'd surprised me with a carriage ride for Valentine's Day after a very nice dinner at Red Lobster so I was not thinking carriage ride this time--but it was! He'd called Joy at Camden Carriage Company and arranged for a 9 PM ride through Camden taking in all the beautiful Christmas lights in the historic district. It was just incredible! He is wonderful! We met her at the Greenleaf Inn and had such a beautiful night to ride and the homes were gorgeous. We took a little added detour around Brevard Place and it was breathtaking! Joy is alot of fun, too, telling history as she guides Beauregard around town (or at 25 years old does he guide her?!). She is so very nice.

What a great Christmas present! I'd told Joey I hadn't gotten out much this year as I usually do because of my surgery and I'd missed seeing the lights and attractions a little. He picked right up this and I had a front row seat in style seeing the lights! Thank you, honey, for being the most awesome sweetheart in the whole universe--I love you! Again, Merry Christmas!

It's been a very Merry Christmas 2007...

What a beautiful Christmas season it has been at our house. Being a little under the weather this time of year made things a little different because I was moving a little slow and not able to do a lot I would have like to have done for others but I am so touched at the generosity of my loved ones and the charity they've demonstrated. We had such an amazing Christmas. It was way different without Erika and there was an empty spot in my heart and our home but hearing the excitement in her voice as she and Jack traveled from Idaho to Utah to spend time with his family at their cabin and the fun she and Jack had spending their first Christmas together as a family filled that spot with more love than I can explain. They are so cute and sweet together and it just does a mother's heart good to know your children are happy. What a great family she married into--they are just amazing! And I think Jack married into a pretty good one, too! Ha!

One thing was different this year--our Dinkins Family party with my daddy's entire family was postponed because my Uncle Paul in the hospital in ICU not doing well so our prayers go out to Aunt Ronella, Uncle Paul, and their children and grandchildren and hope he will recover if it is the Lord's will. We love you all.

On Christmas Eve we met at Mama's and had a wonderful feast! Mom had her traditional oyster stew, deli meats, shrimp, and so much more!!! Then there were so many desserts--Tiawanna's famous fruit salad, fudge, apple pie, and Byron's favorite--red velvet cake! Oh my how we enjoyed it!! After enjoying all the delicious food Ginger read the Christmas story from the Bible and we all joined in singing Christmas carols. Maddie performed several songs and Addison sang a solo as well. We have some great musical talent in our family! (I'll have to do a complete post on this subject sometime...) Then at the request of the younger family members it was time to open gifts! It's so fun to watch the excitement of the little ones with the presents--the anticipation, the thrill of tearing open packages, and the long-awaited visit from Santa! Their excitement brings out the child in all of us! Spencer, Andrew, Carson, Maddie, and Will were just absolutely precious! Ethan had painted a bird feeder for Daddy and Mama with "Dinkins Country Cafe" on the sides and Daddy really loved it. Ethan was excited. We gave Mom a beautiful Tiffany lamp she'd been eyeing in the stores and I think she loved it. We'd decided not to do gifts this year as we normally draw names but no one adhered to this--each family had something for each other and it was so sweet! Tiawanna gave us candy and an ornament (she's given us a new one every year and I LOVE them!!) and a loaf of delicious cranberry/pumpkin bread with a beautiful poem with it. She is so thoughtful and giving. Byron and Susan gave us an ornament and a gift certificate for Longhorn--YUMMY! (Joey will love that date, too! Ha!) Byron had also done a huge thing for me before my surgery this month -- his is also vey giving and kind. Ginger and Shaun gave us the most delicious, most incredible homemade sugar cookies you've ever tasted! (And they're almost too pretty to eat!) It was so sweet. Jenny and Brandon traveled to Washington, DC to visit Jenny's dad for Christmas but brought brownies over before they left--she's so sweet! Oh what a fun time we all had. Erika and Jack called during the festivities and Mom and Dad opened their gift while she was on the phone--yummy Idaho Spuds chocolate candies and a movie. (I found out later Erika and Jack had mailed each individual family a Christmas package and I was so touched because I know how expensive the postage alone is--they are just so special--she goes above and beyond.) One incredible thing that happened that night too was the moon--did anyone else notice the moon late Christmas Eve night? As we were leaving Mom's we were all outside and Susan announced, "We better go, it looks like Santa Claus is circling around..." and we when looked up there was this huge perfect circle around the moon with one single star inside the circle. It was beautiful! After hugs, kisses, I love you's, and Merry Christmases we parted for home to bring in Christmas day.

Joey had to work Christmas Eve and Christmas Day 7 AM - 7 PM but joined us when he got off each day. However, I woke up Christmas morning at just before 6 AM to the welcome aroma of bacon and grits--Joey had cooked Christmas breakfast for the kids and me before going to work! He is just amazing every day! Santa had come and Ethan and Addison hurriedly ran to the living room just like when they were small to see what goodies awaited them! It was so much fun! Ethan was very happy that he got the Guitar Hero games he'd hinted around about and some other fun things. Addison was happy about her new shoes and an Ipod docking station/alarm clock radio and other gifts. She got the Gilmore Girls Season 7 DVD from Joey and loved that. We opened our gifts from Erika and Jack and I got a new Willow Tree angel (I love these!) and it's the "Thinking of You" one. Addison and Ethan gave me new earrings and a memory foam pillow and I was so touched! We'd agreed that we were not doing much this year and they all went way above and beyond. We enjoyed a delicious breakfast Joey had made then Addison and I took another snooze while Ethan rocked out with Guitar Hero.

Later in the day Ethan and Addison went to Lexington to visit their dad, Donna, and Ivy. Ivy is too cute and was so excited they were coming. (She is 4 years old and so very very intelligent!) They had a fun time and visited their Gilbert family also and I spent the largest part of the day in my pajamas listening to Christmas music, talking to Erika and out of town friends on the phone and baked a caramel cake to take to Joey's parents and one for Tiawanna (her favorite!) When Joey got off work we picked up his children, Abby and Alex and headed to his parents house, making one stop by my wonderful home teacher's house (Brother Dave Adams) to drop off a gift. (He's the best home teacher EVER!!!) We had another delicious feast at Mr. and Mrs. Hornsby's house and such a fun time. Joey has such dear sweet parents. His family is a lot of fun, too, and we had fun laughing with Uncle Floyd. It's never a dull moment when he's around--he is so funny! Joey had wrapped his Daddy's gift (some new pants) in an iron box and we got a kick out of watching him look at the box with what he thought was a new iron and saying, "I think this must be for your mama, son." We had such a nice time with Joey's family and they always make me feel so welcome and at home--it's a great feeling...

I have so many fond memories of this Christmas--way too many to list but the most important thing is the feeling in my heart. Oh how I want this feeling to stay in my heart. I have so many things I'm so grateful for this holiday season. The Savior's Birth being at the top of this list and and the feeling of Christmas as we celebrate Him. One of the sweetest things I heard at church on Sunday was a quote Donna Goff gave us in her beautiful lesson and it is:

"Have you ever wondered why God announced the greatest birth in human history to a handful of shepherds on a hillside and a few wise men from the East? Perhaps it was because they were quiet enough to listen...eager enough to know...available enough to follow!"

I want to adopt this analogy into my new year's resolutions...may we all remember the meaning behind this beautiful season and follow the example of our Savior and friend, Jesus Christ whose birth and life means everything.

Merry Christmas and best wishes for a joyous new year.

Happy Holidays everyone...

Hello! I hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday season preparing for Christmas next week. It's hard to believe it's right around the corner already--time really passes quickly. It's been a while since I've blogged anything new but will catch up soon. We've been really busy and I've been under the weather. I had surgery last week on the 12th and I'm not quite as tough as I thought I was. (just don't tell anyone...Ha!) I've learned alot of lessons being kinda homebound the last week and some real life lessons that I pray will stay with me the rest of my life. The most important one that means the most is that there is absolutely NOTHING in this life that means more than family and those we love and those who love us. My family is amazing, just amazing. And so is Joey...he is truly an angel sent just for me...I love him more than I thought possible. I am so grateful for my angels this week--that is the true meaning of Christmas to me and I hope I can someday repay my parents, my brother and my sister, my children, and my sweetheart for all the help they've given me. A special thanks also to my aunt Willette for coming over to visit me and help me with some chores when I came home from the hospital, Darla for the treats waiting when I got home, Dave & Cookie Adams for the plant, Linda Browder for the wonderful goodies and sweet visit, LaTwanna for the visit on Sunday, Laresa for the plant, and my dear friend Becky who I consider more like a sister for the ride to the doctor and lunch yesterday and some "girl time". And let me not forget Joey for the meals after he'd worked 12 hours and my dear children for helping me up and down to the restroom and staying close to home. I know Ethan could be doing such funner things over Christmas break after after exams from college than taking care of mom but he's not complained once and has been a prince! And Addison, you're just simply amazingly awesome, Addison, you'll be such a great nurse in a couple years--you're getting plenty of practice this week. Thank you, sweetie. Erika and Jack are heading to Utah (Provo) this weekend for Christmas with the Maxfield's at their family cabin and I hope they have such a great time. Erika's excited to get to eat at a chic-fil-a there! She's called me several times every day to check on me. She and Jack are so sweet together and I'm so happy and proud for the two of them. Thank you family...yep, that's what it's all about...like Addison told me when she was just a toddler, "Mommy, you are rich if you have love in your heart so that makes us very rich, Mommy, 'cause we love each other berry berry much!" Merry Christmas.

Happy December!

It has been another busy yet wonderful week. Chloe is adjusting to our home and is such a sweetheart. (I still can't believe I've gotten attached to a puppy because I said I wouldn't and didn't have time, but she is SO SWEET!) Addison and I are still working on the potty-training with her and so far so good, I guess?! It's a challenge but worth it.

Seems our family has had a great week overall with fun activities, good news, and fun planning. Erika and Jack are busy making new Christmas traditions as they celebrate their first "official" Christmas holiday together. Jack has been busy stringing lights and I mailed all of Erika's Christmas ornaments to them for their first tree. They are both such extreme Disney fans and plan to have a Disney theme tree. Jack's parents gave them an advent calendar which is a tradition in Jack's family and Erika is excited in continuing this tradition. They are both busy working and Erika's busy getting ready for school again in January. I also hope she does well with the weather as this is the first full winter she'll spend in Idaho. BURR!!!! While attending BYU-Idaho she attended summer and fall and came home to SC during winter semester so it will be an adjustment for her. Hope ya'll stay warm, Erika Lindsay--

I love and miss ya'll!

Ethan had a good week in school and working. Some of his friends from USC went to Florence for the weekend so Ethan stayed there. I missed him, especially going to church and Grandmother's for lunch with us, but I'm sure he had fun with his friends. I look forward to his coming home next weekend. Love you, Eeskee!

Addison had a great week with lots of fun activities and was very busy. On Wednesday night she had a youth activity and they made gorgeous gingerbread houses. Then on Friday night the youth had a "Read the Book of Mormon in One Night" activity and they completed it in groups in 3 hours! How incredible is that! There were about 16 youth who attended and 5 or 6 leaders and they had such a great time reading. Addison was really excited about the experience of this activity--we have such awesome youth and youth leaders! These kids are such an inspiration to me--they attend early morning seminary then school and some work part-time jobs as well. Addison does all this and maintains A-B honor roll grades. I'm so proud of her and all her accomplishments. Thank you, Addi, for the example you are to me, I love you so...

I also had a very productive week. Work was good. I felt like I accomplished a good bit and learned some new things. I attended class on Wednesday night and enjoyed the company there. Thursday night I met with a realtor to list the rental house which I hope sells quickly and Joey brought dinner over from Lugoff House of Pizza. He's so sweet and spoils us so! Friday night I accomplished a lot at home and got a lot of decorating and housework done to lighten the load some on Saturday. Then Saturday I shopped a little and then had a date with my sweetheart Saturday night! We went to Beverly Cassady's Med 1 Hospital Christmas party. It was SO FUN! Beverly's home is just gorgeous and decorated so beautifully for the holidays! We danced, ate wonderful food, visited with friends from work, and just had a great time! Joey is always so much fun--I just love him so...Thanks Beverly and Tony for the great party--it was a blast!

Today was also nice. We went to church and I enjoyed Laresa's Relief Society lesson so much. It was on "Come unto Christ" and she used a quote from a previous conference talk that says "I Can Do Hard Things" and ended with another quote and issued the challenge of "When I know who I am I can do anything through Him." She related stories and experiences with the "I can do hard things" goal. She related one particular experience of a trip to Guatamala this year with her husband and climbing the pyramids there. Laresa is afraid of heights and almost did not attempt this feat because of her fear. Instead she kept reminding herself of the goal she'd set for herself and yes, she did a hard thing and was glad afterwards. So many times in life we don't think we can accomplish things because it's hard, it's out of our comfort zone, but we do have the capability to "do hard things." Our Heavenly Father is there for us when we have hard things to do and are faced with great challenges in life. Once we know who we are and make our minds up to do certain things, we can do all things through Him. He knows us, He really knows us and He will see us through. Our Saviour Jesus Christ has endured all challenges and has paid the price so we can get through the hard things. As I've reflected over the challenges I've faced this past year and the many blessings I've been blessed with I've realized that yes, even I, Valencia, can do hard things and I can make it through. It is a good thing and without challenges and hard things we would never know and appreciate happy things. Thank you, Laresa, for such a warm lesson today!

I hope everyone has a happy and safe week this week and as we prepare for this holiday season may we all be more aware of those less fortunate but especially those who are struggling right now. There are many who have had to endure some real hard things this year and some continuing to go through these right now. May we remember more the reason for this Christmas season and keep that spirit in our hearts as we fill our days with busy holiday activities.

Happy December and Happy Holidays to you all!

We have a new addition...meet Chloe!

Hello...we'd like you to meet Chloe, the newest addition to our family. (She's supposed to be Addison's Christmas gift but instead she's become the newest member of our family!) She is a Shih-Tzu and is just SO SWEET! I'd tried to talk Addison into waiting until Christmas and see if Santa brought a puppy but when she held this one she said, "Oh, Mom, she needs a home for the holidays!" She's just a little bundle of love and seems to have made a pretty good impression on the family! I didn't think I could get so attached to a puppy like this but I guess it gives me my "baby fix" to care for her so. Yes, Addison, I think Santa came early to Mommy, too, and I believe Chloe will bring lots of smiles for years to come.

A very THANKSGIVING week...

Thanksgiving Week was a time in our family to give thanks for many things. First of all for family and loved ones. We have such an awesome family and share such a close bond. Second for good health--what an wonderful blessing! Third for all the marvelous blessings we've been given -- a list that could go on and on. At the top of this list would be good friends. I have so very much to be grateful for and I thank my Heavenly Father with all my being for the things I've been so graciously blessed with.

My family, both close and extended is just amazing. My mother made the absolute best Thanksgiving Day dinner imaginable. (I will post photos later borrowed from my sister, Tiawanna, because I did not have my camera until late in the evening.) I worked in the ER Thanksgiving Day until about 1:00, picked up Ethan and Addison from home and to Grandmother's house we went! We were greeted by Daddy with welcome arms and the aroma of a perfect Thanksgiving meal. Present were Mom and Dad, Tiawanna, Brandon and Jenny, Byron, Susan, Will, Maddie, Marshall and Lindsay, Ethan, Addison, and myself. Ginger, Shaun, and the boys had gone to Shallotte to spend the holiday with Shaun's family and Erika and Jack are in Idaho and spent a wonderful Thanksgiving with Jack's family. We missed all of them of course, but happy they were having a great day with their families as well. Mom had everyone's favorite dishes and Tiawanna made her famous fruit salad we all love and yummy blondie brownies! For our meal we had turkey, ham, dressing, sweet potatoes, corn, potato salad, homemade rolls, broccoli salad, and greens. For dessert there was pumpkin pie, pecan pie, and brownies. It was the BEST!!! We had so much fun eating and talking and visiting with each other. Then we spent the latter part of the evening checking out the sales ads for all the after Black Friday sales, doing a craft and watching "Yours, Mine, and Ours" (the old version with Lucille Ball). We made fabric Christmas trees and I think Maddie and Will had the most fun helping me (Mic Mic) cut out the fabric strips and then tying them on the dowels. Then the base for the trees Daddy cut out from a piece of wood he had that surely has a story behind it making it very sentimental. We made an extra for Erika and Ginger as we did miss them being here. It was such a perfect day!

May we keep Thanksgiving in our hearts all year...

Thankful thoughts...

Hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving tomorrow. I received this email from a friend and enjoyed reading it so much I'd like to share it. We ALL have so much to be thankful for, especially family, health, all the comforts of home, food to eat, and the basics. These are some added bonuses. Hope you enjoy them as much as I did and have a HAPPY AND SAFE THANKSGIVING!

THINGS TO SMILE ABOUT:
1. Falling in love 2. Laughing so hard your face hurts. 3. A hot shower. 4. No lines at the supermarket. 5. A special glance. 6. Getting mail. 7. Taking a drive on a pretty road. 8. Hearing your favorite song on the radio. 9. Lying in bed listening to the rain outside. 10. Hot towels fresh out of the dryer. 11. Chocolate milkshake (vanilla or strawberry). 12. A bubble bath. 13. Giggling. 14. A good conversation. 15 The beach 16. Finding a 20 dollar bill in your coat from last winter. 17. Laughing at yourself. 18. Looking into their eyes and knowing they Love you 19 Midnight phone calls that last for hours. 20. Running through sprinklers. 21. Laughing for absolutely no reason at all. 22. Having someone tell you that you're beautiful. 23. Laughing at an inside joke with FRIENDS 24. Accidentally overhearing someone say something nice about you. 25. Waking up and realizing you still have a few hours left to sleep. 26. Your first kiss (either the very first or with a new partner). 27. Making new friends or spending time with old ones. 28. Playing with a new puppy. 29. Having someone play with your hair. 30. Sweet dreams. 31. Hot chocolate. 32. Road trips with friends. 33. Swinging on swings. 34. Making eye contact with a cute stranger. 35. Making chocolate chip cookies. 36. Having your friends send you homemade cookies. 37 Holding hands with someone you care about. 38. Running into an old friend and realizing that some things (good or bad)never change. 39. Watching the expression on someone's face as they open a much desiredpresent from you. 40. Watching the sunrise. 41. Getting out of bed every morning and being grateful for anotherbeautiful day. 42. Knowing that somebody misses you. 43. Getting a hug from someone you care about deeply. 44. Knowing you've done the right thing, no matter what other people think.

The road less traveled...

Yesterday driving back from Carson's birthday party I detoured a little from the main highway. Amazing! Simply amazing!! The leaves were gorgeous and I had the most peaceful drive. I almost forgot the reason I'd detoured--it was to go by Joey's to pick up the leaf blower. How incredibly beautiful was my simple drive...The color of the leaves was so pretty! There is just so much beauty around us--who needs to drive to the mountains to see the leaves when they're all around? The drive just made me think --How many times do we do the routine and thereby miss many opportunities? Maybe they're just not convenient or maybe at times we're just a little skeptical about stepping out on a limb? Just thought I'd share one of my favorite poems by Robert Frost...

TWO roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

Hope everyone has a happy and SAFE Thanksgiving Week! May we remember the reason for this beautiful season and take the time to enjoy all the beauty that surrounds us.

Time at a glance...

It's been a couple weeks since I've updated--life has been so busy! It's all good, though. Here is a little glance at the last few+ days' happenings that stand out to me and some random photos to accompany:

• Yard sales with Valerie Luthy - we had a great time! She is so much fun and so interesting to talk to. Looking forward to our next venture!




• Ethan being at home last weekend. We didn't see him much as he spent most of it with his friends. It was the first anniversary of one of his best friends' (Doug Harris) death and all his friends came home and spent lots of time together remembering all their times together. They met Sunday afternoon at the site of the accident and put flowers and other memorabilia there...they are such a tight group of friends, more like family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Doug's family at this difficult time.




• Addison and I are still car-pooling together and it actually is a lot of fun. I really think I'll miss it when she has her own car at some point. It gives us some quality time together that we wouldn't have otherwise and I love this time we have! She's such a good sport at being where she should and picking me up from work at the right time. Then sometimes while I'm waiting for her to get off work at Sonic I place an order and she makes me a fantastic sandwich to eat while I wait. She is just too funny on that microphone at Sonic and has great people skills! Thanks, Addi, you're amazing.




• Darla's birthday on the 13th--sorry, Darla, you're the oldest now! Ha! (We are the same age for 2 months then she passes me--somehow she has maintained her girly figure so much better than me--I need lessons!!!) I did bake her a caramel cake for her birthday and hopes she enjoyed it. Happy Birthday, Darla!
  
  


• The Book of Mormon class on Wednesdays has been wonderful. I learn so much each week. I missed one week and could tell something was missing and couldn't hardly wait until the class this past Wednesday. It's always so good and I enjoy visiting with friends there. My friend Jayne Bowers is there and we have fun catching up after class. See ya Wednesday, Jayne!




• This gorgeous weather we've been having. Yes we need rain but it has been absolutely gorgeous!




• The price of gas--TERRIBLE! We need to pray for cheaper gas. We've really made an effort to consolidate errands, it's almost unbearable. Let's hope it doesn't increase again...




• The Safety Fair at work on the 13th was a lot of fun. The employees seemed to provide lots of positive feedback and comments. Paula is an incredible person and sooooo smart! She did a fantastic job with this and I was excited to be a part of it with her. High five, Paula!




• My pedicure date with Joey--it was heavenly!!! After a long day at work I came home and Joey surprised me with a full pedicure and what can I say more--just wonderful! Thank you, honey, you are so sweet. (It must've brought him good luck because he got a big doe the next morning hunting!)




• Carson's first birthday party yesterday at Grandmother and Grandaddy's house. It was so fun! Carson was just too cute with his turtle cake--he enjoyed every bite and even offered to share it with Grandaddy Oree! Ha! It was a fun time for everyone. Ginger and Shaun do such a good job! Happy Birthday, Carson! He's so grown looking with his new "big boy haircut" and his bright blue eyes! Little Shaun--looks just like his daddy!




• The "Dinner and a Murder Mystery" party at Alana Harper's last night--we had a blast! Joey and I were Mark and Maria and we were not the killers. We were just happily married and Mark had a secret job with the CIA and was a writer. Darla was an exotic dancer, Becky and James were investigators, Boyd and Laresa were an interesting couple. However, Boyd had several roles and just died too many times for me to keep up! Ha! Mike Chesley was the funniest--his part was so out of his character and he was just hilarious as also were The Cogdill's!! It was a lot of fun. We dressed up in 50's attire (it was a class reunion setting) and everyone looked great. Alana (A.K.A. "Jenny" who was snobby) looked so pretty in her scarf tied around her hair. It was a lot of fun and the food was marvelous--made from the bread recipe Alana and her husband make and have given classes on preparing the bread. Thanks, Alana, it was a blast!

Now we're about to go to Mom's for dinner. Ethan and Addison went to visit at their daddy's house in Lexington for the weekend and I'm just waiting for them to return. I hope they've had fun, they've not seen their dad since Erika's wedding in August except for a breakfast date Addison had one Sunday morning. That's another chapter for another day but I know they miss their daddy and Ivy, their little sister there. They, especially Addison and probably Ethan, too, would love to be included in their lives more. What boy doesn't crave their daddy's acceptance and support? I used to push the issue more but learned a long time ago you can't force people or things...Each individual has his or her own free agency about how to spend their time and with whom to spend it with. I just think their daddy and his family for that matter have really missed out on getting to know some awesome kids better. Sorry if I'm stepping on toes a bit but they are all wonderful kids and it's sad to let so much time pass when we don't live very far from any of them and more effort is not made to be more involved in their lives. I could not imagine not knowing my children, my grandchildren, or my nieces or nephews very well. I realize it always goes both ways and an effort has to be made on both sides. At the same time adults sometimes have to make the first move--Ethan is practically an adult, too, but feels as though some family are like strangers and may not be as comfortable as someone older to make that first step. As for Erika, she lives far away now and it's probably a little late, except for the fact there's email and cell phones and postage letters--so it's really not too late. She just has her own little life and family with Jack in Idaho now and even though we talk nearly everyday it's still not like she and Jack can just swing by after church on Sunday for Sunday dinner or a Friday night movie or just come by to visit a little while. However, Ethan and Addison are still within visiting length. They are bright and witty and a whole lot of fun to be around-- if this perhaps applies to you why not get to know them a little better and spend a little quality time with them. Time doesn't cost anything and the rewards are quite outstanding in a very positive way.

November came in with a smile!

September and October were great bringing with them many great memories! They included spending time with my parents out west in Utah and Idaho and Yellowstone with Erika and Jack, the surprise of seeing my best friend Anne again, my birthday (Yikes--but I'm only as old as I feel!), a bunch of birthdays (Ginger, Will, Mom, Marshall, Joanne Maxfield, Brandon, Erika, Daddy), fun dates and lots of time with my sweetheart, a new position at the hospital, good grades for Ethan and new job on campus at FMU, a new job for Addison, and the A/B Honor Roll for Addison, Jack and Erika's great plans they're making, etc. The list goes on...these were some of my favorites.

Now November is here and it has blown right in bringing lots of smiles already! I had one of the best weekends this past weekend. The only thing that could've made it better would have been having all the family home, but they always have a part of my heart with them. Erika and Jack had a nice weekend in Idaho and Ethan enjoyed a day of paintball with his friends in Flo-Town! Besides missing them it was an ABSOLUTELY perfect weekend. Joey's children went to to the beach for the weekend and Joey was off work. We missed them, too, but it had been a really long time since we were both off and had a weekend date. Friday began with Joey hunting while I went to a wedding reception. Brittany Parrott and Matthew Nelson were married in the Columbia Temple and had an awesome reception at the church. It was so beautiful. Afterwards, Joey and I had a date for "Pig On The Ridge" in Ridgeway where Joey had a friend who was cooking for it. We had a good time walking around and seeing old friends. Tiawanna met us there and it was fun spending time with her, too. Then we came home and planned our date for Saturday--FISHING!!!! This is my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE!!!! Joey picked me up Saturday around 11:30, we got a sub sandwich for a picnic, and headed to Dale's pond. As you can see in the photo it is so peaceful there and is one of my favorite places on earth to be. We had a great time--only one problem--I only caught 2 fish and Joey managed to catch 5--supposedly with the same lures...?! Hmmmmmm...not sure how he won the bet but he did. It's okay, they taste the same regardless of who catches them, I'd just like to win just once! Ha! We had so much fun and the weather was just gorgeous! We fished for about 5 hours then headed home and got ready to go out for dinner. We went to Olive Garden and had a fantastic dinner. It was so yummy--all you can eat soup, salad, and breadsticks. (I was trying so hard to eat healthy but couldn't resist the breadsticks.) Addison had worked Friday night so she had Saturday night off for the highly anticipated annual youth hayride at the Branham's. She looked beautiful in her scarf and had a really fun time--I think she has a new romantic interest (JP Parrott, but don't tell anyone!) and I totally approve. She had such a good time and was just giddy telling me about it when we met up back at home. Oh to be 16 again! (Well, not really...but she is too cute!)

Just when I thought the weekend couldn't get any better Sunday came. Oh how wonderful was that extra hour of sleep! Heavenly! Joey met me at church which was such a pleasant and welcome surprise. It's the warmest feeling having him at church with me--it's undescribable. This Sunday was testimony meeting and it was a wonderful meeting. The testimonies born were from the heart and my heart was filled. Our lesson in Relief Society was about heeding counsel we are given. The thing that stuck out most for me personally was personal preparedness. Not only food storage and home storage but all ways of being prepared. We have been instructed to get our homes in order, store enough food and goods for emergency situations and to prepare ourselves personally. Some of the examples included personal and family prayer morning and night, having regular family home evening, and reading the scriptures more. I have much room for improvement! I have set some personal goals that I look forward to attaining.

After church Mom had invited us to their house. They were having extra guests this Sunday and Mom requested Joey bring his guitar and Addi bring her flute. After a delicious lunch with such good company Joey began playing and we had a fun time singing and hearing Joey play and sing. Ms. Maria's favorite is "I Can't Help Falling In Love With You" which Joey had performed at Erika and Jack's wedding for their first dance. She requested that one first and it was so special! He is SO talented! Addi played some pretty music on her flute and Ginger played "Canon in D" which we love to hear her play. Everyone had a good time--then we had little rest! (Especially Brandon--Joey serenaded him right to sleep! Ha!)

Yes, I think I'm going to just love November. What could be better--family, friends, church, Grandmother's cooking, and Joey's singing?! (Oh and FISHING!!) That's my idea of what heaven just may be like--it's the closest I've felt to it in a while. I believe I have the best family and sweetheart there is. At least that's what my heart tells me...

Halloween -- fun for the young at heart!

Happy Halloween! It's been a good day...Work was fun today. It started with the nurse managers and administration pushing around the Halloween cart filled with treats. They all looked so cute and the cart was decorated just beautifully! Great job, ya'll! Then for lunch the hospital auxillary treated the employees to a barbeque on the patio. It was such a beautiful day and we ate out on the patio in the sunshine. What a gorgeous day it was today--the weather has been absolutely perfect the past couple of days--it's cool and brisk in the morning and warm by noon. Just perfect!

This evening for Halloween I decided to test the "you're only as old as you feel" saying...and IT WORKED! We had a GREAT TIME! I dressed as a little girl in my baby footie pajamas, a big red bow, my slippers, and a teddy bear. (costume compliments of Addison--she put it together) A little goofy, but very comfy! Addison was beautiful -- she was the princess from "A Cinderella Story." We went to the church party and trunk - or - treat. Everyone looked GREAT! Becky was "X-Scream Makeover Gone Bad" and it was cool! Laresa was Smartie-Pants (too cute!), Alana's costume and wig was great and her trunk was decorated so neat. Our bishopric served the hot dogs and they are too fun--what an awesome group of men. One highlight of the night was Joey surprising me by showing up at the party after work. I'd just picked up the phone to call him and Darla said, "There's Joey coming in!" (I didn't need my teddy bear anymore with my costume--my real teddy bear was there then!! Love you, honey!) It was a fun night. Another highlight was talking to Ethan and Erika this evening. Ethan called just before we left just to catch up and chat and it was really nice. Erika called when we got home tonight--thanks, kids, Mommy loves you all so much! I love any holiday and special occasion--to me they all spell time with those you care about most.....even on the phone they're still close at heart! (By the way, Erika, check the candy before you give it out! Ha! Just kidding! You're too funny!)

Happy Halloween to all!

Another Awesome Weekend!

It has been a beautiful weekend! The weather was perfect! Friday we got much needed rain and the Camden/Lugoff-Elgin football was postponed until Saturday. Addison had to work Friday night and I had a date with Joey and his two children, Abby and Alex. We had dinner at San Jose then some shopping at Lowe's. I had ordered some quotes from Ginger's party a few weeks back and they came in so I was off to buy ceramic tiles and wood to start my projects. The finished ones are at the top and I'll be selling them (if anyone's interested) and some are holiday gifts. I so enjoy crafts and stayed up wayyyyyyy too late Friday and Saturday nights painting and crafting...but it was fun.

Saturday was a very productive day. Addison and I slept in some (to me 8 am is sleeping in really late--Addi "Sleeping Beauty" got up around 10:45'ish--must be nice!), got the housework and laundry done, did grocery shopping at the commissary, then home to get ready for the eveing activities. Addi had to work again -- by this time she's feeling more like Cinderella -- she had to miss the game (LUGOFF WON!! YAY!!) and the pig-pickin' at the Osteen's. However, she had a good night at work and Joey, Abby, Alex, and I had fun at the pig-pickin'. Bishop Joyner knows how to cook a pig! Darla liked the caramel cake I made--I'll make you one for your birthday next month, Darla! The food, fun, friendship & fellowship, and the music was wonderful. Thanks, David and Ruth for your warm hospitality --great party!

Today was perfect, too. I absolutely LOVE Sundays! Church was everything one could hope it could be. The talks in Sacrament Meeting were so good and Brother Adams always gives such a spiritual lesson in Sunday School. Our Relief Lesson today was from the May Ensign, the conference edition. It was entitled "The Tongue of Angels" by Jeffery R. Holland. The message was such a profound reminder to me that it is so important to watch very closely not only what we say but also and especially how we say things. In the address Elder Holland says, "There is a line from the Apocrypha which puts the seriousness of this issue better than I can. It reads, "The stroke of the whip maketh marks in the flesh: but the stroke of the tongue breaketh the bones." With that stinging image in mind, I was particularly impressed to read in the book of James that there was a way I could be "a perfect man."
Said James: "For in many things we offend all. [But] if any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body."
Continuing the imagery of the bridle, he writes: "Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body.
"Behold also . . . ships, which though they be . . . great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm."

This was powerful to me, then later in the address he added, "So, brothers and sisters, in this long eternal quest to be more like our Savior, may we try to be "perfect" men and women in at least this one way now—by offending not in word, or more positively put, by speaking with a new tongue, the tongue of angels. Our words, like our deeds, should be filled with faith and hope and charity, the three great Christian imperatives so desperately needed in the world today. With such words, spoken under the influence of the Spirit, tears can be dried, hearts can be healed, lives can be elevated, hope can return, confidence can prevail." Great lesson! And, Channel, you're an awesome teacher!

One last thought on that topic--when I was a very young girl my daddy who is so kind and so full of wisdom told me : Think before you speak. Just imagine holding a birdcage filled with lots of little wild birds and you're standing out in a wide open field. Once you say something it's like opening the cage and letting go all those little birds into the big world--you can NEVER catch them all and get them back into the cage again. And so it is with the words we say--once they're out we can never fully take them all back. Maybe it's good things and other times it may be words we wished we'd never said and then it's too late and the damage is done. I know that I will try a little harder to be mindful of the words I say and the expression...My kids are quick even at their ages now to say, "Mom, don't look that way, please." They say my eyes reveal my mood whether mad or glad and they can always tell if they're in trouble by the look and shape of my eyes. (Maybe not a bad thing all the time!)

And lastly, what could be better on a beautiful Sabbath afternoon with gorgeous weather than spending time at Grandmother & Grandaddy's house?! Also posted are some photos taken at Mom's this afternoon. Lunch was delicious, Mom, you always out-do yourself! Thank you for all you and Daddy do for so many--ya'll are amazing!

Hope everyone has a great week!