Wife... Mommy... Sister... Daughter... Friend...

BLOG HACK - Even more love....

2010-12-08T16:02:00.002-06:00

Happy Birthday to you! You have been a precious friend for many years.
You made Jonesboro feel like home to us---we really came to feel like
you were family. And I miss you now, even as I am surrounded by family
in Michigan!
One of my best memories with you is the Memorial Day weekend we went
down to Pensacola...after a James Taylor concert in Memphis, we drove
late into the night, got a flat tire, stayed at the SEEDIEST hotel I
have ever stayed at (remember they told Joe and James that we couldn't
get an hourly rate?) and then arrived in Pensacola only to learn that
Memorial Day weekend there was the largest gathering of gays and
lesbians in the whole country. What an experience! None of us had ever
seen so many rainbows (remember we had an old sheet with rainbows on
it...nice!), mesh bathing suits, or guys checking out our husbands. That
was probably the least attention you or I ever got on a beach :). Then
we played Catan, of course, in the hotel room. Now that we have kids, I
think we were crazy for staying in the hotel room and not GOING
OUT...but oh well. I remember laughing a lot, eating good food (and some
junk, too), and just having a great time with you guys. The other memory
I will always hold is our weekly dinner/Survivor/Catan tradition. That
kept me grounded and sane for many years, even if it did cause serious
marital tension when Joe creamed us all.
Joe and I were just talking about the impending birth of our third
child---and I said "I wish Dana were here!" Not only so I could take
advantage of your photographic eye in the delivery room---but because
you were a calm, loving presence to me during Rowan's long birth. For
that I will be forever thankful.
Dana--I don't have another friend quite like you. You are spunky,
creative, fun, an initiator, spiritual, silly, thoughtful, loyal....and
I love you dearly.
LAURA

Dana, Dana, Dana.....Love this girl to pieces, she's my little sugar muffin. She has been there for me through some very difficult times and knew just what to say and when to say nothing at all. When i first met Dana, there was a wall up, that spoke volumes - STAY OUT! lol... But then, I got to know the fun loving, spunky, shoe loving, big hoop wearing, loud mouth, music loving, precious soul that she is and she is now my sister and I love her dearly! Thank you Dana for being there when I needed you, for shedding tears with me and showing that you have a heart full of love and compassion beyond belief! I must admit, that I really wished you would have been in more pain when you got your tat, just because you are such a show off, but at least I got to be there to see a little bit of the pain and get pictures! lol... Thanks for letting me slide through the wall and be a part of your life! I love you girl! Happy Birthday!
MICHELE

BLOG HACK! Dana is 35!!!!

2010-12-08T08:58:00.001-06:00

HAPPY 35th BIRTHDAY DANA!

It’s a blog-hack from me and your friends! You really should change that password….but then again, if you did, you’d never see all this:

I went to Dana and James' cell group threeish years ago. That began what I know will be a lifelong friendship. Dana and James helped me grow so much over the two years they mentored to me in my spiritual walk. She has such a huge heart and love for her Savior, her family and her friends. I really dont think there is a thing she wouldn't do for me. (except of course, burning me a copy of my wedding video). Hint. Hint. Hint. :) She was instrumental in making my wedding day perfect for Casey and I. I still get teary-eyed when I think about what that meant to me. I love our Girl's Nights! Our love of KU! Most of all I love how she cherishes each and everyone of her friendships. Happy Birthday, D! You are one of a kind and I love you for it.
LESLEY

It was always fun embarrassing you on stage, talking to you, putting you on the spot.
STEVE

You’re a FREAK and I mean that from the bottom of my heart!
NICK

I love You Dana!! Not just bc of your smackable booty or bc of the gross smelling burps you blow in my face. Or bc we share a “respect” for JT…..or that some days we wish we were sick so we could stay home in bed, where we would still be texting each other. No one else cares about the non-important things in my life, but you!! I can text you at any time “I just watched a crazy show about sea turtles” and we would discuss the show for another hour. or I could call you on accident at 1am and we’d stay up texting for the next hour. The phrase danalaughs means so much to your friends, because every where we go there is always someone who’s laugh stands out in a crowd and that makes us think of YOU!! But not to worry we know your laugh from all others!! Mainly bc if you laugh too hard you sound like a donkey!!
JULIE

Dear Dana, you are one of the most fun girls I've ever met! I am so blessed to call you friend, and I will forever cherish all the fun times we had...even the rice dessert! I am so thankful you were in my Zumba classes, mostly because when I forgot the moves, you remembered them!!
Happy birthday dear friend! Love yaaa!
KEM

Just wanted to say that you are a wondermous friend and an even more super duper person!! You have such an awesome positive outlook and always know how to have fun whether we are shopping, lounging in the river or out on one of our escapades. I am so glad that God brought you into my life. You are a beautiful person that I am glad to have in my posse!! I love you.
BRANDY

Happy, Happy Birthday to You....my sister, seperated at birth =) I love that our journeys connected & God made us friends. I'm very thankful for you & hope your day is amazing!! We love you!!
AMANDA, BEAU, & BLANE

I love you D because: you have a great laugh, for your love of music, for your ability to quote Friends, you're a party planner extraordinaire, you took pictures when Houston was born I will cherish forever, you got me to all the fab places in Cali, you lend me your tunes, because we have an In-N-Out connection, but most of all, because you are a GREAT person!! Hope this is the best birthday yet :))
MISTY

I became acquainted with Dana about 3 years ago. Though I haven't known Dana as long as some, I feel fortunate enough to call her friend. I love to hear her laugh. When she gets so tickled by a situation, her laugh is contagious. The snorting is great also.

She loves music as much as her family. I absolutely love, love, love, to hear Dana sing. I remember when I lost my sister to heart disease Dana sang In You by MercyMe that weekend. That moment will always stick in my mind. I felt like God was speaking through an angel and that angel was Dana.

I wish you all the best on your birthday! Hope it is as awesome as you are.
KARA

One of my favorite memories of you was on the scrapbook trip we took to Alabama to the Red Rooster Retreat. What I remember most is that we laughed all the way to Alabama and all the way back, and you know Dana, one of the things I love best about you is that contagious laugh! You radiate a positive, happy energy that infects everyone around you. You are a warm, loving person with the wonderful ability to bring people closer together. Where you find Dana, you find people laughing and having a great time! Happy Birthday beautiful lady! Love you,
CHRISTINE

I'm so honored to have you as a friend. You really blessed me when you drove an hour to Memphis for my mom's visitation and stood by me during a really difficult night.
I know I can always count on you to make me laugh or to pass along good music suggestions. I wish we lived close so we could share a cup of coffee or a plate of sushi more often. But we always have that next New York trip in our future, or your next visit with Ashley. Love you!
KRYSTAL

We met on a waterslide. How many friends can say that? I love that our first meeting was as unique as our friendship is. Crazy dare nights, setting stay-up-all-night records, some seriously insane videos, trips to Graceland, more Baskin-Robbins runs than I’d like to admit, and all the singing we did together make for a set of memories with you I wouldn’t trade for the world. Here we are 20 years later, and I can honestly say that I am humbled to be your friend. We may never eat an apple pie together. And we’ll never agree on any guy we think is hot. But I do know that every day, I’ll get on the computer and I’ll talk to you. And if I don’t, things just don’t feel right. I love you, girl. Happy 35th.
SARAH

Saraya's First Day of School

2009-08-25T20:01:00.003-05:00

Today was Saraya's first day at the Kindergarten Center. She has been very excited to start school. I like to be organized and since this is all new to me, I decided that picking out clothes every morning just wasn't going to work. I got a 6 shelf organizer that hangs on a closet pole. Saraya and I sat in her closet and picked out her outfits for every day. I really think this is going to work well. There was no scrambling this morning, no hunting for shoes, it was all right there. So I'm pretty happy about that. Saraya really wasn't that hard to get up either. I'm sure that won't be the case all school year.

We got there and she walked in very matter a factly. No hesitation. No tears. I'm so glad she's excited about it. It makes it so much easier to deal with. If she would've cried and not wanting me to leave the classroom, I think I would've just cried my eyes out. But that wasn't the case, so I was able to just hug and kiss her bye..... I did get a little choked up. Who wouldn't. :) Can't wait to see how it goes a week into it!

My Girl...

2009-08-10T23:20:00.003-05:00

...is on a trip with James to California. They've been gone for a week and they won't be back til the middle of the night Friday. I've kept myself busy, spending some quality time with some of my friends. But....

...I miss her laugh, her smile, her conversation, her kisses and hugs, her cuddling in bed.

Playing Catch Up

2009-08-10T23:17:00.001-05:00

I know, I know. I've been a horrible blogger this summer. It's been so very busy. I hit the highlights, but if you're my friend on facebook you've already seen these pictures. I'll try to do better. :)

Sophmores

2009-07-21T23:11:00.000-05:00

Cristi and I signed up for the ASU Women's Football Clinic again this year. And we brought some fresh meat along for the ride! It is such a fun time... and I just eat it up. My favorite part is being out on the field, even though it wasn't quite as good this year because of the rain.
Lora, Cristi, me, Kristie and Marinda

4th of July

2009-07-04T22:55:00.000-05:00

This was probably one of the most fun fourth of July's I've ever had! James, me, mom, dad, David and Jana drove over to Mud Island and met up with our family from Nashville to watch Love and Theft perform! It was so much fun to watch them with the live band.

Here's me with the boys!

Jake and Cristi met us there. Love these two..... well, Cristi more than Jake. :) Sorry Boss!But what I really enjoyed was spending time with the best cousin in the world. I've missed seeing her face! It was great getting to talk and laugh and just hang out with her for the day.
Wally, Aunt Susie, Ashley, Stephen, Andrew and Rebekah

missing

2009-06-20T22:46:00.000-05:00

We had a Liles Family Reunion in Heber Springs in June. As the family gathered, there was a lot of talking, a lot of laughing.... we enjoyed great food and the creek. Towards the end we started taking group shots of everyone. As the siblings got together, I got a huge lump in my throat.... my grandpa was missing from the shot. And as each sibling surrounded themselves with their family.... it was just us in our family picture.

We visited my grandpa's grave there in Drasco after the reunion. I knew it would be hard, but I didn't know how hard til I was walking through. Tears rushed down my cheek... and memories flooded my mind. No matter how many years pass, I'm not sure it will ever get easier.

I'm an Aunt Again

2009-06-13T22:41:00.003-05:00

We all were so excited when Kayson Belle McClain joined the family!

Saraya & Kayson, she loves holding the baby.

James, Saraya and Eli

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-10T17:55:00.004-05:00

I love being a mom, but even more than that, I love being Saraya's mom. She's awesome. And thoughtful. And creative. She's been telling me for a week that she had a surprise for me.

Little did I know that she's been planning a surprise party for me! After church today, we were going to mom and dads to eat lunch. I walked in the door to find a card table sitting close to the front door. And a sweet precious voice filled the air as she jumped out from behind the wall "SURPRISE!!". She was so proud of herself! The card table had all the important things a surprise party needs. Cupcakes, Mint Oreos (one of my favorites!), pink napkins and cups (which she told me she had to get pink because she couldn't find orange ones anywhere!), a card she made, a Dora balloon, a card she bought and a gift. James said he had to talk her out of getting a pinata.... that they're not for mother's day. Cute!

In my eyes, I'm the luckiest mom in the world to be blessed with the best daughter in the world!!

Saraya's First Concert

2009-04-27T01:12:00.003-05:00

Just about every weekday morning, Saraya comes in my bathroom while I'm getting ready for work.... we listen to my ipod and she knows how to find Taylor Swift.... so that's what we usually listen to. She loves TS. She knows most of the words.... and sings her little heart out.

So of course, I was so excited to tell her that we were going to the Taylor Swift concert! The first words out of her mouth were, "you mean I'm going to get to see her sing on stage in her pretty dresses???" Too cute!

My cousin Stephen is friends with Taylor... and he scored us some meet and greets before the show. Saraya was really really excited about meeting her.

The concert was great! There were two opening acts, and of course Saraya kept asking, "when's Taylor coming out?" She didn't understand how it worked. But when she came out, she was soooo excited! Her face lit up and she sang along. But she only lasted til about 10. Her being tired outweighed the excitement. So James came and picked her up. But she still had the time of her life. And I really enjoyed watching her! :)
ps: my cousin Stephen's band just made their first music video!! I'm so proud of him!! You should check it out.....

http://www.cmt.com/videos/love-and-theft/376396/dont-wake-me.jhtml?id=1609997

Orange Crush

2009-04-12T20:22:00.004-05:00

Last weekend was the Lions Club Car Show at the Convocation Center. I have many fond memories of this car show..... back in high school, my dad and I would be there all weekend with my car. I had a fully restored '66 Mustang that my dad built. I loved that car... and I still wish I had it. Not only because it was a cool car, but because of all the work my dad put into it. Enough of the past....

This year dad entered his '68 Camaro which we've named Orange Crush. This car is awesome.

Nashvegas!!!

2009-04-05T17:03:00.005-05:00

Last weekend I spent it in Nashville with my parents, David & Jana and my family who lives there. It was a fun and packed weekend.

We ate lunch on Saturday with Kyle and Caron... I grew up with Kyle and we've stayed in contact all these years, so it was great to see him. Then we went downtown. We went to Hatch Show Print and Jana got a tattoo. Then we went to Opry Mills Mall and shopped!
The real reason that brought us to Nashville was the fact that my cousin's band... Love and Theft.... played at the Grand Ole Opry!!!! What an honor. It was amazing to see him up on that stage.
Afterwards we went to Dave & Buster's to hang out together. I just love all this family so much!! And I love spending time with them whenever I can.

Gary, Patsy, Andrew, dad, mom, Stephen, Jana, David, Brent, me, Rebekah and Aunt Susie

me and crazy Rebekah!!! :)

Sunday we had lunch with family on my mom's side of the family. It was my first time to meet Payton Joy!!! And she's such a cutie. :)

Christy, PJ and me

I've been tagged!!

2009-03-01T18:57:00.004-06:00

I've been tagged, here are the rules:

1. go to your documents/pictures

2. go to your 5th file

3. go to your 5th picture

4. blog about it

5. tag 5 people

This was a fun day in November '08. I took Saraya out to the park at Craighead Forest. She loves to swing... just like her mom. It was great weather and a great day for us to hang out just the two of us!!!

I'm tagging Amy, Randi, Laura, Sarah and Paula.

Call me June....

2009-03-01T18:49:00.002-06:00

... Cleaver that is. Cause that's what I feel like wearing an apron. :) My best friend Sarah is very crafty and she made Saraya and I matching aprons for Christmas. They're super cute huh!!!? June would never pick this funky fabric though.

If you hang out in a barber shop...

2009-02-22T16:17:00.001-06:00

The S.H.E. Team (Seeking Him Eternally) for our Women's group at church had a meeting at the beginning of the year, just like every year. As we discussed what we want to accomplish in 2009, we all really felt like we wanted to do more outreach this year. We worked last year once a quarter at the Women's Crisis Center, but we really wanted to do things more than four times this year. We all felt the need to improve in this area as a group. We also wanted to expand where we do our outreach, wanting to find a place in Paragould also since we have many gals from there. We decided one place would be The Agape House. We have monthly prayer breakfasts, usually the first Saturday of the month. We decided to add an outreach project with each prayer breakfast. In March, we'll be doing our first project at The Agape House. Sunny, the lady who runs the house wanted us to come and look around, meet some people and find out what we wanted to do. So the four of us went there Saturday morning.

None of us knew a lot about the organization so we were anxious to see what it was about. It is a four month program for women getting off drugs. It was an incredible hour and actually I could have sat there much longer just listening to her. I am really excited about going back.

We met a woman who went through the program and now works as a "house mom". I can't even begin to convey the emotions, the transparency she had and the wounds that have been healed in her. As we sat in the living room and talked and asked questions, she let us into her world. She was addicted to meth. She has birthed seven kids and gave two up for adoption. She lost her kids and everything she had before she got straight. She's been clean for almost two years. Tears were shed, laughs were many and it was more than obvious that her life has been changed. And now she just wants more than anything, to give back to the place that gave her back her life. God was mentioned in every other sentence. They teach that the only way to really kick that lifestyle is with a relationship with the Heavenly Father. Yet, with tears in her eyes, she admitted, I can't be around certain people. "If you hang out in a barber shop, you are GOING to get a haircut!!" We laughed at the cleverness of her statement, yet in the same breath it broke my heart. What a weight to carry. To know that something could swallow you whole if you make one wrong step.

I commend the women in this home. It was truly amazing.

S is my favorite letter!

2009-02-01T14:00:00.000-06:00

Five years ago today it was Super Bowl XXXVIII. I can't remember who played but I do remember that it was the Janet/Justin half time show! But long before kickoff... I have many memories.

Days before I remember asking Dr. Julie Wilkie if it was crazy to go to a concert on January 31st in Memphis. See, I was due on February 3rd. :) But we had tickets to see Bebo Norman, Amy Grant and Mercyme!!!! She said that we would be close enough to home that it would be okay. Just come straight home if I started to have contractions. My family was none too happy that she said that. I got numerous calls from my mom that night making sure that I was okay. I sat the whole concert. It was a great concert. Great for the soul. After the concert we went backstage and walked around with the guys of Mercyme for about an hour. It's always fun to reconnect with them... plus, I got to meet Amy Grant and she rubbed my belly! Driving home, completely pain free, I was more than happy we went to the concert. But it definitely threw me into labor. I woke up at 6am having contractions every 6 or 7 minutes. Off we went to the hospital. I labored for a few hours and then was lucky enough to get my epidural. After pushing for 45 minutes, Saraya Ashlyn joined this world at 4:42pm on Super Bowl Sunday.

We turned the Super Bowl on in the second quarter. But I don't remember much about it. I was fascinated by my daughter. To this day, I am still just as fascinated by her.

It's amazing to me that she's turning five today. Time passes so fast. I love the way she hugs and the way she kisses. I love that she volunteers those hugs and kisses. I love the way she laughs. I love the way she tells stories. I enjoy having conversations with her. I love that she has an opinion. I love that she's independent. I love that she loves music. I find myself looking at her sometimes just absolutely speechless. God blessed me beyond words when He gave me her.

Happy Birthday My Girl!!!!

Much I Take for Granted

2009-01-31T20:53:00.004-06:00

Wow. Who would've thought this week would be the longest of my life. Little did I know what was in store. Tuesday after work I began hearing from some friends that they lost power. I was so sad for them, but I really thought we were going to be fine because we still had power. As I watched tv, I listened to many limbs cracking and breaking and falling. Fe called and couldn't stand hearing the sounds either, so our house quickly grew in number as Jason, Felicia, Eli, Micah, Devyn and two of the girls friends piled in our house. School was out the next day and I wasn't going work so I thought it would be fun to have such a lively house. The girls and I played Clue. I love that game. We started to go to bed around 12, and the power went out. But only for 30 minutes. Phew! I thought to myself. That was a close one! I woke the next morning to find that sometime in the early morning, probably around 4, our power went off. It didn't feel too bad... but of course, I was under my warm covers. Jason and Felicia's apartment had power so they all loaded up and went home. We packed up some stuff and walked two doors down to my aunt and uncles house. They have a gas heater and gas stove. My parents were down there, and my cousins. We sat and talked, played Scrabble, and made the time pass. That afternoon, mom and dad stopped back by thier house and they had power! So before it got dark, we went back home and packed up some clothes and food and headed to my parents. Yep. That's it. My "roughing it" lasted 8 hours.

My big event on Wednesday was falling on the ice. We were packing the car and I walked out with a few things and hit a icy spot and my feet flew right out from under me. I hit my back, left elbow and my head on the driveway. I strained every muscle in my neck and shoulders trying NOT to hit my head..... but it didn't help. I'm still a little sore, but everything's fine.

It was fun to be around the family and sit and talk. Things that I take for granted and don't always embrace. But it felt so great to sleep in my own bed last night. And it felt so great to wake up and get things done in the house today.

I can't even imagine what some of my dear friends in Paragould and Brookland had to deal with. And what so many are still dealing with for the next few days. My biggest hardship was knowing that Lost was airing Wednesday night and I couldn't watch it! (No worries, I watched it the next night online!)

There are simple things that we take for granted everyday. Turning on a light when we walk in a room. Being warm inside our house. Cooking the food that we have in our frig. But for some, they don't even have the room or the house or the food in a frig. I have a new appreciation for things.

Only Five More Days.......

2009-01-16T21:17:00.004-06:00

I've been spending my spare time at nights lately to rewatch the Season Four episodes and bonus features. I still love this show as much as when I watched the first episode of Season One. There is so much going on, so much on the surface and so much deep within. I absolutely cannot wait til the 21st!!!!!!

Love and Hate

2008-12-31T09:43:00.003-06:00

I like the color grey...... I have a new sweater that's grey that I really love......

And I also have these grey heels that my great friend Julie got me for my birthday......But something that I don't like that's grey....... my hair!!!!! I found a few grey hairs this week, so I prompty added hair color to my WalMart list. Last night was the night! I'm now a brunette!!!! It's just a wash in color so it'll be gone in 6 weeks. Who knows if I'll do it again....

Christmas Day

2008-12-29T18:59:00.003-06:00

Saraya was so much fun this year. Very vocal with her list...... a list that grew every time someone asked her what she was wanting. On Christmas Eve we had a service at church. I wasn't sure how well it would be attended since we haven't ever had one since we've been at the church, but we had 97 people there! It was a really great time together. When we got home we sat out some cookies for Santa.

Saraya woke up and was really excited about opening up her stuff. I love how many truly "happy and surprised" looks I got on her face! She of course got WAY too much stuff. It'll take her awhile to play with it all!

We have the privilege of staying home all day on Christmas day. I wouldn't have it any other way. We start the day with the grandparents and David and Jana. We sit around and open all our stuff. Then we make breakfast. This year, the menu was biscuits and gravy, sausage, cream cheese and crescent rolls casserole, a rice casserole and eggs and ham. It was all really really good!!! I think this is just about the only day of the year I eat breakfast. We then retreat to the living room to watch the Disney Parade. Saraya really enjoyed that this year since we were just there a few months ago. She kept talking about all the things that we had seen. And Hannah Montanama sang too! So that's an extra bonus. ;) After lunch is probably my highlight for the day.......... the LAKER GAME!!!! What a great thing for the Lakers to always play on Christmas Day. And this year it was a Finals rematch with the Celtics..... and we won!!! It was great. We finish the day celebrating with James' family. We eat non-traditional food for Christmas... ribs, bbq, brats, the works! It's so great. Then we open all the presents!!!! It was fun having nieces to buy for this year. I think they were my favorite ones to buy for!

My best present was by far my 16gb iTouch!!!! I am in love! We already had a wireless router, so I can get on the internet and Facebook right from the iTouch when I'm at home!!! It's GREAT!! Plus it's just fun with the touch screen. Because of my new addition, James got my Nano because it's way better than his, and we gave his Nano to Saraya. I've put all her music on there and she's been glued to it ever since! It's really cute!!!!

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!! And I hope that the things that made 2008 great, continue for you in 2009!!

I am the Champion, my friend!

2008-12-22T11:57:00.002-06:00

I did it! I can't tell you how excited I am to have the winner's trophy in my Yahoo Fantasy trophy case!!!! I stuck with my faithful starters that I've been playing for awhile, even though I seriously thought about changing some of them. But I didn't. And it paid off. Several guys scored BIG for me! This week Rivers actually DID score me 25-30 points!!!! :) I look forward to my trophy presentation from The Boss. I think that's almost as fun as winning. We've watched football all season, just about every Sunday, with the Hillis'. It's been a great tradition. And if there's one person in the league that constantly gives me a hard time, it's Jake (aka The Boss... oh wait.... THE BOSS) It just better not have a cow on it! hehehe.....

Sunday....

2008-12-22T10:54:00.004-06:00

Saraya made these Reindeer antlers at church today. She loves them. She said that "they're a little floppy but they're still cute". :) And I agreed. When we got home she wanted to take a picture in them. You have to look close for the hanging antlers!!!

Then we took one of ourselves. Then she wanted to take one of me. Which turned into a photo shoot. She'd hold the camera down, look at me and say things like, "um... can you move your head like this".... "can you put your leg like this".... it was hilarious! Like mother, like daughter!!

Trying Something New...

2008-12-20T10:47:00.003-06:00

This year for Christmas with my grandparents, we decided to do Christmas Brunch. I'm not sure if it'll become a tradition or not. We'll see if we do it again next year.

Grandpa and mom were both crippled...... grandpa broke his foot and mom has a stress fracture. So they were both a little slow. My cousin's daughter Kayla is a couple months younger than Saraya. And they are both spoiled by this group! They had a huge pile of stuff. As we sat around watching them open gift after gift, me and my cousins discussed how we NEVER had a pile like that!!!!! :)

After they opened theirs it was time for our Dirty Santa game. That's always fun. Lots of stealing and lots of laughing. Good food.... good times.... good family.

Fantasy Football Finals

2008-12-15T23:02:00.002-06:00

Here I am. I made it again. I've been in the Fantasy Football league two seasons now, and both seasons I've made it to the finals. I think this is my thing! I had the pleasure of beating the Defending Champion (aka Laubach) yesterday. In both of the seasons I have never beat him, so this was an extra nice win... seeing how he used to hold that fact over my head.

Cristi and I were really hoping for an all girl final..... we did not get our wish. James beat her tonight by three small points. So, looks like it's a Hewitt final.

I'm confident in my team. And the fact that I know his team password and someone might be replaced in his lineup. :)

Fantasy Football!!!

2008-12-08T22:46:00.003-06:00

So this was a big weekend matchup for me. I entered the playoffs last weekend in 6th place. And yes, there are only 6 people who make it to the playoffs... so I just squeaked in. This week I, Victorious Secret, played Fire & Ice (aka Warner).

There are many guys in this league. In fact, there is only one other girl in the league, and that would be My Football is Pink (aka Cristi). Pinkie entered the playoffs in first place!!! And I know for a fact that there are many guys who are cheering for both of us to lose. They probably really wish we weren't even in the league. We've played two seasons now, and both seasons, we've BOTH made it to the playoffs.

I could care less about Tampa Bay and Carolina, but I was glued to the tv. Our scores were really close, and we both had people playing in the game. But when it was all said and done, my guys actually outscored F&I. So I'm movin' on up!!!! I'm thrilled... THRILLED!!!! One of us girls is going to win the whole thing. I can just feel it. And I'm gonna love it even if it's Pinkie and not me! It would be really great if it's an all girl final. :-)

Turning Thirty-Three

2008-12-08T17:56:00.003-06:00

We celebrated with some friends on Saturday my big milestone. We started out eating dinner at Fuji's which was soooooo good. It's one of my favorite places to eat, but we don't go very often. We had a huge group crammed around the table.... and it was alot of fun!
But I think the Laser Tag was almost more fun than that! We had 15 play... and we played boys against girls...... and the GIRLS WON!!!!! WOO HOO!!!!!!

I am blessed beyond words to be surrounded by such wonderful friends. People I can laugh with, share life with and can count on. These people are like my family. And I love them all!!!

Black Friday and Memphis!!!

2008-11-29T19:23:00.002-06:00

Our standing tradition has been for many years to go shopping on Black Friday. Sometimes you don't even need anything... you just go. It's usually my mom, me, my brother, Jana and my mother-in-law. David and Jana were out of town (missed you two!!!!) so it was just the three of us. I was up and out the door at 4:30am..... yes, people....... AM!!!!! This is the only day of the year where it's acceptable. After we hit a few stores here in Jonesboro, me, mom and my great friend Julie were on the road to Memphis! This was a first for us but it was great.... and I'm thinking it needs to be a new tradition. We had so much fun. Mom had a voucher for a free hotel, so we spent the night and shopped on Friday and Saturday. As we pulled out of Memphis, I figured out that I had been shopping for 36 hours (minus sleeping of course). I only had a few presents bought before Friday morning and I love being able to say that I am just a couple short of being completely done!!!! YAH! Here's a picture of the three of us with all our loot.

Happy Turkey Day!

2008-11-27T13:22:00.003-06:00

Here's Saraya today in her Turkey handprint tshirt she made at PreK this week and her "indian" braids! :-)

I asked Saraya five things she's most thankful for this Thanksgiving....

1. Mommy & Daddy

2. Ibe, Papa & Grandma

3. our house

4. our mouths (she's a talker like me!!!)

5. our Christmas tree (we finally got it up!)

I hope you are all enjoying a relaxing day like me... and gearing up for BLACK FRIDAY!!!!! I can't wait!!

David & Jana's Wedding!!!

2008-11-24T12:36:00.006-06:00

Saturday was the big day for my little brother. My cousin Rebekah did my hair and makeup, that was fun to not have to do it myself. We got to the church just in time to take pictures.

dad, me, David and mom

It worked out that Ashley and Scott were able to be here for the wedding. I was so glad! Even if it was short, I always enjoy getting to spend some time with Ash.

2:00pm came quickly and it was time to start the ceremony. My cousin Stephen sang an original song that he and David wrote just for the wedding. Then they seated the mothers. And then it was my turn to stand in the doorway. I had to wait until the precher, groom and groomsmen came out. And as David walked out there, I instantly got teary. There he stood. No longer the little brother that was 11 years younger than me, that I've watched grow up his whole life, he now stood there a man. He has grown into a wonderful man, and he'll be a wonderful husband. I cried all the way down the aisle. But I quickly regained composure as the georgeous flower girl (aka Saraya) dramatically threw the last handfull of rose petals up and over her shoulder as she walked down the aisle.

The ceremony was beautiful. It was fun to have all the family together. And the reception was nice. David's always been a big UNC Tarheels fan, so his groom's cake was their logo. It was hard for him to choose between the foot and the Apple logo.

The Liles cousins!! Scott, James, Stephen, Andrew

Ashley, Saraya, me, Jana, David, Brent and Rebekah

Three Years...

2008-11-02T23:41:00.000-06:00

...have passed since my grandpa left this earth.

For twelve years I saw or talked to my grandpa every day during the week at the parts store. I took those moments for granted. I've found myself hearing his voice in my head as I answer the phone or seeing him walk in the door as I've reflected on it this past week. With every tear, I'm grateful for the time I did have with him, especially those last twelve years. I wouldn't trade them for anything.It was far from perfect when he was with us. There were plenty of disappointments and hurts but there were also hugs, smiles and joy. Regrets will always exsist and I can't undo the past. But the bottom line will forever be, that I love him. And I miss him.

Halloween Festivities!!

2008-10-31T22:39:00.005-05:00

Last Saturday we went to a halloween party at Chris and Karman's house. It was cold but it was fun! The kids loved the hair color, tattoos, bonfire, and most loved the hayride. That would be everyone but Saraya. She's not much for scary stuff. And as they came around the corner and I heard the chainsaw with a guy running towards the trailer I knew she was going to loose it. And I was right. She got off bawling her little eyes out. Took a little while but she finally got over it! She had fun anyway. She insisted on wearing her WonderWoman costume from last year. It was a little small but oh well. She's with her dear friend Elijah who so wonderfully taught her this mouth noise that they both repeat ALL THE TIME! :-)

Thursday at PreK they were able to dress up. So for this party Saraya decided she wanted to be Cinderella. Which was fine with me cause we already had the dress in her dress up stuff! Parents were able to go to school during lunch so James snapped some pictures.

And finally, tonight we went trick-or-treating! For the last month at least Saraya's said she wanted to be a bat. I have no idea where this came from, but she kept saying it, so I got creative with black clothes, a trash bag, face paint and hair spray color!! It actually turned out pretty cute!!

It started as our cell group, then it grew last minute!! We had a ton of people at our house. I think I counted 35. We ate pizza and then hit the streets. Most people probably didn't like seeing our big herd coming cause we made a big dent in the candy bowl!!!

Little Big Town & Carrie Underwood

2008-10-28T14:24:00.006-05:00

I've been looking forward to last night for over four months! I've been to many concerts in my short life, but this was only my second time to be on the front row. They're especially good for us short people!!! I love music, I love concerts, and I will start my story with a fact that I'm sure you know if you know me..... I can't sit and be still... I must stand and dance!!!!

Little Big Town opened up the show, and they were great. I think they were even better this time that when I saw them last time! They have great songs and great harmonies.... I really enjoy them and all their music. (And the girls fashion! I loved these boots! Even though I could never pull them off.)

I made eye contact with Philip a few times and he nodded his head at me cause I was singing all the words (we were friends way back in the day when he went to ASU). I was secretly hoping that he recognized me.... but no go. About halfway through their set, two older gentlemen came in and sat on the other side of me. I would never think of these two as Carrie Underwood fans. But I didn't give them another thought. I continued to enjoy LBT, dancin' and singin' my heart out. Almost as soon as the lights came up after LBT was done, one of the men sitting next to me got my attention and said, "I like watching you and all, but if you never sit down, I won't get to see any of the show." I didn't really know what to say. Standing kind'f comes with the territory when you're at a concert, especially when you have floor seats. Plus, all the people around us that weren't standing during LBT were for sure going to be standing when Carrie came out. So I just smiled and said that I'd try.

Carrie came out and rocked! It's no secret that she could sing, I mean, you sing live on American Idol, you can't fake it on that show. But to hear her live and in person....... man, she can WAIL! She did not disappoint and she sang all my favorites.

She had several costume changes. And I got a play by play commentary about it from the two men. Her first outfit was a short black dress, and I guess they thought she was dressed for halloween. Then she put on a big full floor length blue dress for a few ballads. One man said, "that dress is twice as big as the last one". Then she went into an uptempo song and they ripped the long part of her skirt off and she had a short one on underneath it. Lesley happened to look over right when it happened and apparently their eyes bugged out. I'm glad they didn't have a heart attack. That would've been very distracting. :-) I'm all heart, I know. Just kidding!!!

Then came the odd moment of the night. Carrie picked up the guitar. I was impressed at first... but then she started strumming. Well, lets just say it looked very awkward. She was strumming way faster than the song and, well, you couldn't actually hear the strums..... so I'm thinking she was muted. I think it's great that she's learning how to play. I would love to play guitar. But I won't be learning four chords anytime soon just so I can hold a guitar while I'm on stage! No worries Jon and Charleton!!!!! I was quite jealous of her pink sparkly mic though!!! I would love to have one of those!

It was a great concert, with my great friends Kara and Lesley!!!!!

people.com

2008-10-20T22:14:00.003-05:00

Usually everyday, or at least every other day, I look around on people.com. I like to see what the hot topic is, or see the newest pictures. So tonight I was looking around on there and noticed that Taylor Swift had made a video of random things. It said there was some backstage footage of the new Crossroads they're about to show on CMT. So I watched it. And I watched it again. And again. I think I'm up to seven times. Why you ask? I am a Taylor Swift fan, but I'm an even bigger fan of my cousin Stephen!!! He's in a band called Love and Theft and they've been opening a lot of Taylor's shows. And for a few short seconds, Love and Theft are in the video with Taylor. They show up around the 4:22 mark. And Stephen's the one on the right side of Taylor!! Gotta say, seeing family on people.com made my night! :-) Love you Stephen!!! You can check out the video here.

Crossroads Fall Festival

2008-10-18T20:55:00.003-05:00

I've been working on stuff for the Fall Festival all week long! It was a lot of fun organizing the Chili Cookoff. We had six entries, and four willing judges. We played all kinds of games after we ate. There was bowling, football toss, paintball target range, and even face painting and hair color along with many others. We had a guy come out with his train. The kids love the train! But after all that came one of my favorite things..... flag football!!! I didn't do too good at taking pictures today.

SCORE!

2008-10-16T21:47:00.002-05:00

It's not corduroy, but I'm happy with it!!!!! I went into the Gap on a whim tonight... the best part is that it was regular $44 and it was on sale for $10!!! Woo hoo!!

Festival of Lights and Harvest or something like that...

2008-10-16T14:25:00.005-05:00

Wednesday night after we ate and had our lesson, we worked on one of our games for the fall festival this Saturday. We're doing bowling... and these are our pins! We painted them black and each of us decorated one. Some of us are overachievers. Some of us did our best. Some of us drank too much caffiene or something. And it wasn't me!!!! We had lots of laughs during this project.....

We had a ton of fun... of course, we always have fun when we're together. These girls are so great. Each one of them mean a ton to me personally. What a wonderful group to be able to count on!!

46,000 Women..... 92,000 Boobs!!!!

2008-10-11T17:53:00.009-05:00

Yesterday we left Jonesboro at 3:30ish and headed to Little Rock for the Race for the Cure. We got to our hotel after many, and I seriously mean MANY trips around the block. Dang those one way streets! Then after we were settled, we headed out to dinner at Cajun's Wharf. Oh wow. The best food ever!!!! My great friend Charity lives in Little Rock, so she met us for dinner. It was so great to spend some time with her. We talk on the phone every week just about, but we don't get to see each other much!!!

We went back to our hotel, with much more ease than the first time. Everyone was getting ready for bed, getting settled, I asked what time it was and they said, "10:00". No wonder I wasn't tired!!!! So I somehow managed to keep Chassidy and Julie up talking and playing with my iPod. I had the late night giggles and they kept me laughing. Julie was my bed partner, and as the clock struck midnight, we turned into pumpkins and finally went to sleep. I woke up a few times in the middle of the night...... with Julie's feet on me (her nightly habit) and once even butt to butt. Good thing I love her! ;-) But as all of you know, when the alarm went off at 6am, I thought I was going to die. I squeezed every bit of bed time I could... rolling out at the last possible minute.... 6:30. It was still dark..... so I actually got to see the sun rise!!!

The walk was great. Amazing stories. Amazing women. Amazing lives. Survivors with their daughters, and granddaughters. People walking in memory or in honor of friends. One of the neatest things though, were the men on the sidelines cheering us on. (I bought pink sunglasses just for the walk!!! And yes I know, Elton's already called... he can't have them back)

I was in the car with Holly, Angie, Cristi and Marinda. And if I learned one this on this trip..... it's that Holly and I are truly kindred driving spirits!! Everyone else in our car made comments all weekend about how she drives, a little fast.... never easing on the brakes.... but for me.......... it was like coming home. hehehehe!!!

These girls are so great, and I love spending time with them. Each time I do, our friendships deepen and our bonds grow tighter.

My new obsession...

2008-10-08T12:12:00.003-05:00

...the color ORANGE! At first I didn't know where it was coming from. I was drawn to the orange nailpolish, and I've been wearing it for a couple weeks. I really want a new ipod.... and of course, I want the orange one. I've really been wanting a corduroy skirt for the fall.... and I specifically want an orange one. This all seemed a little out of the blue, but then I realized last week that I'm surrounded by orange every day at work! Tangelo Pearl to be exact. (And yes, that's a custom color!)

I have inherited many things from my dad. Many parts of my personality are just like his. I can't count how many times I've said something to my mom and she follows it up with, "you sound just like your dad!" I have his common sense (which I'm very proud of). I also got his lead foot... and a love for old cars. He's restoring a '68 Camaro and it's coming together quite nicely. Pieces of it are scattered throughout the store, but he's getting more and more of it put together. It's such a slow process, but a fun one to watch. Well, at least it is for me.

Tagged by Holly!

2008-10-06T18:50:00.002-05:00

Seven random and/or weird facts about myself:

1. I am completely aware that I drink way too much soda..... but I just can't stop.
2. I love those ups white board commercials.
3. I would love to be a professional party planner.
4. I love watching "Cover Tune Grab Bag" on Mercyme's blog. They're hilarious!
5. I'm obsessed with finding an orange cord skirt.
6. I think I could eat at Taco Bell every day.
7. I'm way too excited that Brothers and Sisters is back on tv. I have to remind myself that they're not real people. ha!

This was hard to come up with 7 things that I didn't already list on here a couple months ago!!

Wednesday

2008-09-22T21:10:00.004-05:00

We got up and around Wednesday morning and headed home. We did it all in one day.... and it was a lot of driving! We rolled in at midnight, which wasn't too bad. We were more than ready to be home. It was a fun trip though!!!

Tuesday: part three

2008-09-22T20:32:00.005-05:00

As I was walking around taking pictures on Main Street, an employee came up to me and started asking me questions and asked if we were interested in any character sightings. I said yes, and he said, "How about Cinderella?". I knew that she wasn't spotted out very much at all outside of the parade, so I of course was interested. I thought it wasn't that big of a deal, we'd get there and have to stand in line for an hour. Much to my surprise, we got there and the time they told me was our appointment time. There was no one else even there. The Disney employee made a huge deal talking it up to Saraya. They took us behind the curtain and she made a big announcement, "I introduce to you, Princess Cinderella!" as she pulled the curtain back. It was so incredible. I teared up. Cinderella was instantly in character, talking to Saraya about her braids and asked if her mice or her birds braided them for her. Saraya was speechless. When we finally left, she looked up at me with her eyes so big and said, "mommy! she didn't have a mask on, it was really really her!!!!!"

Dancing Queen

2008-09-22T17:48:00.003-05:00

Okay, this is a little out of order. This was from Animal Kingdom on Monday. Please keep the jokes to a minimum!!!!

Tuesday: part two

2008-09-21T23:43:00.005-05:00

And then, my favorite day.... Magic Kingdom. I love the monorail. They didn't have one at Disneyland this year so it was fun to be able to ride it again. I haven't been to the Magic Kingdom since 1996! So it was fun to see things, how they've changed, and some things I remember so differently!!

I just love Main Street! I love the store fronts, I love seeing the castle, I just love the atmosphere!! Of course we had to take the time to take pictures in front of the castle!!!

Tuesday: part one

2008-09-21T23:22:00.007-05:00

The heat was getting to us, and so were the long days... so on Tuesday we decided to sleep in and hang out at the pool before going to the Magic Kingdom. It was nice to be lazy and let the kids play. And the best part for me was getting to actually sit and talk to Sarah!

It was fun to watch the kids together. As much as Sarah and I talk, I feel like I know her kids as if I see them all the time, but actually getting to watch them interact with Saraya was fun. They got along really well together.

The pool area was really neat, it even had a waterslide! David and Stephen got in on the action!

Monday

2008-09-21T21:23:00.015-05:00

Our second park was Animal Kingdom. No one in our group had been to this one before so it was fun to experience something new for everyone. It's a really neat park!

The first thing we did was go to the Lion King stage show. It was probably the best stage show ever. Now I really want to see the Broadway Show!!

Saraya really enjoyed getting to meet Mickey, Minnie and Goofy.

We stopped in Africa for some lunch. This african band was playing outside a restaurant. Of course, I stopped to listen and was mesmerized. After listening for quite awhile, they wanted volunteers. The head guy started pointing to people and blowing his whistle. Something in my gut told me he was going to pick me. Probably because he had already made eye contact with me a couple times and he could tell I was really enjoying it. I went up and had a ball. (I'll post the video in the next post)

The best thing at this park is the safari ride. You climb aboard a truck and drive through a tour of the animals. But they're not in pits and cages, they're roaming around in their natural habitat. It was really incredible. The closest animals that came to our truck were the rhino and the giraffe. But we saw lions, hippos, crocodiles, flamingos... all kinds of animals.

At the end of the day I was really wanting to ride the rapids ride... cause I love it! David, James, Saraya and I rode it!! Saraya really liked it!!

Sunday

2008-09-21T19:13:00.010-05:00

We went to Hollywood Studios, which I haven't been too since I was in high school. I used to love it, it was my favorite park.... although now, I'm not sure why. It was still fun though.

They have a lot of stage shows at H.S. and the first one we went to was Beauty and the Beast. It was GREAT! I loved the movie and I owned the soundtrack back in the day. Ashley and I sang along with all the songs!!! It was a really great show.

Saraya's favorite thing here was probably the Playhouse Disney stageshow. We got to see the characters from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Handy Manny, Pooh and Friends and Little Einsteins. They had a back lot that looked like the skyline of New York City.... so of course we pretended like we were there again. I think we all three secretly would've actually rather been there!!

But the best part of the day was when we went on the two "big people" rides. The Twilight Zone's Tower of Terror and the Aerosmith Rockin' Roller Coaster. They were AWESOME!!! The Tower of Terror is a free fall ride. I'm usually not so good with these, but this one wasn't one big fall so that made it a lot easier to handle. Even still, I screamed the whole time.

We got a fast pass for the Rockin' Roller Coaster but when we got there the line wasn't long at all, so we rode it once and used the fast pass to ride it a second time. This is probably THE BEST roller coaster I've ever riden! I'm kind'f getting too old for them though! Riding it twice in a row just about sent me over the edge. I'm very glad we waited until the end of the day to ride them.

We left the park and had a nice mexican dinner. It was so great to have Scott and Ashley down for the day. I enjoy any time that I get to spend with her.

Our Big Fat Family Vacation

2008-09-21T18:50:00.008-05:00

I don't think I've ever had a vacation like this one. We had so many people along for the ride..... James, me and Saraya, James' mom, my mom and dad, my brother David, my best friend from Raleigh, Sarah and her two kids, Cole and Adison. Then, once we were in Florida, we had my cousins Stephen, Ashley and Scott join us.

We got on the road Friday after work and drove to Nashville to stay at my aunts house. It broke up the drive a little, but it was still a long car ride. We had two hours worth of stops... which put us at 14 hours in the car on Saturday alone. Sheesh.

We finally got to the time share condo Saturday night and it was probably the nicest one I've stayed in. I'm so glad that my parents have it! I can reap the benefits without paying a dime! :-)

We could see Epcot from our balcony... and we could watch the fireworks over the ball at night!! It was really neat.

Christy's Shower

2008-09-07T23:15:00.008-05:00

Friday we left on a girl trip to Springfield, MO... it was my mom, my grandma, my great aunt, Saraya and me. We went to celebrate with my wonderful cousin Christy at her baby shower for baby Payton Joy!!

We got to my cousin's house around 9pm. They have a black full size poodle and Saraya met her in the dark, and wasn't too crazy about a dog that was the same height as her. She even opened the door to go to the bathroom and freaked out cause the "pluto" was in the hall. Yes, she called it a pluto instead of a poodle. It was so cute that I really didn't really want to correct her, but I did. I had to carry her to the bathroom. The things you do for your kids. But by the next morning, after observing her in the daylight, they became fast friends and I even came out after my shower and found them cuddled together on the couch watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.

The shower was a lot of fun. Seeing family is always a good time. But one person was missing.... my great aunt Marty (Christy's mom). She was talked about often, and I know that she would've been beaming from ear to ear if she'd been there. Crystal gave a precious gift, a blanket with photos of Christy and Marty on it. I enjoyed getting Christy some personalized burp cloths, bibs and a onesie that my friend Sarah made. They turned out so cute!!! She got lots of great stuff and now we're just waiting to meet that precious baby girl!!! Christy was just precious with her baby bump and was positively glowing! I'm so glad I got to see her pregnant, but now I can't wait to meet Payton!

S.A.H.

2008-09-03T12:24:00.005-05:00

Four years, seven months and two days ago something happened in my life that changed me forever. At 4:42pm, Saraya Ashlyn was born. Little did I know how much emotion could come over me so quickly for someone that wasn't even apart of my life moments earlier. Time is an odd thing. It can seem to pass so slow at times, and other times it moves at a rapid pace. It seems like I blinked and it's instantly time for her to go to Pre-K.

Last week, Saraya and I went to Target and she got to pick out a new lunchbag for school. She was so funny in there.... making a line on the shelf of all her options. And of course she picked, (drum roll please) Hannah Montanama. (That's what she calls her) Does she watch Hannah Montana you ask? No she doesn't. She's seen snips of songs on the Disney channel and she is facinated by the fact that she sings and performs and has costumes. So there ya have it.

I have been pretty okay with the whole Pre-K thing. Since I work, I usually only bring her up here with me once every couple weeks. We have the priviledge of her getting to stay with either Grandma (James' mom) or Ibe (my mom). So I'm used to not seeing her everyday all day long. But when we dropped her off at her classroom my heart began to hurt. To know that she's starting a process of learning and experienceing life on her own. A process I want her to have, yet in the back of my mind, I know this will only give her wings, and one day she'll leave the nest. So as she hugged and kissed me bye (after running into the room without a second thought of us!!!) I did get choked up.

Knowing how excited she is about her class makes things so much easier. And knowing that she's learning great skills to take her into Kindergarten makes it worth it. I've known her teacher since high school, and I got a post on Facebook from her after school on Tuesday. It sounds like Saraya is the same little girl in class as she is at home with us. Loves to learn, loves to interact, loves to help, and loves to be a leader (sometimes that turns into bossy - but we know where she gets that! gotta love first born girls!!!!). I am very proud of her. Already, at four years old, she has a fun personality, and has so many great qualities. I will enjoy watching her grow into a woman.

Cell Group Kickoff

2008-08-27T21:36:00.005-05:00

Tonight was the night. We take a month off in August from our cell groups, just to give ourselves a break and make us really miss each other!!

We had a great group there. Lots of talking, lots of laughing, lots of GREAT food, great games and just great fun. We really do have such an awesome group of people in our church.

But I think my biggest "proud mommy" moment happened tonight. Let me rewind a little though.

Last year we bought a Veggie Tales sings worship music cd. Saraya loves this cd. She constantly listens to it, and we even have it on both of our iPods so that it's pretty much always with us. It is the funniest thing ever to ride in the car when she's listening. You know how it is when your ears are plugged with earphones, you sing way louder than you should. She sings at the top of her lungs to these songs. We've been saying for awhile that we need to video it. Hopefully we'll actually do that soon.

Monday night we were at church setting up the tables and chairs for the kickoff tonight. Saraya was running around playing and then she asked if she could go on stage to pretend to sing. I let her go up there with two very strict rules. 1) you cannot take the mic out of the stand. 2) you cannot touch any instruments or wires or anything up on stage. She agreed so we went up and I lowered my mic down. Then she needed a music stand. (Like she can read) I set her up and asked her what she was going to sing. I know that she loves Blessed Be Your Name so I started singing it as I worked and she stood up there and belted it out. It was so cute. I asked her if she was going to get on stage sometime and sing, and of course she said yes.

To my surprise, not very long after we got to church she came up to me and said, "mommy, is it time for me to sing?" She was 100% serious. So, we went up there and I turned on Blessed Be Your Name on my iPod and she sang right into the mic and did a great job! I teared up! It was so precious. She was so cute up there. I think I was in Kindergarten when I sang my first solo, so she is starting earlier than I did!!

Draft Day!!!!!

2008-08-24T21:03:00.007-05:00

I have been so excited about the fantasy football draft for weeks!!!! I have a great team name this year.... Victorious Secret!

My brother made a logo for Cristi and I so we could make tshirts. We were geared up and ready.... we both had pink flip flops, pink hoop earrings, pink toenail polish, pink folder, pink clipboard, pink ink pen and pink highlighter.

There were more people dressed up at the draft than there are on Sunday mornings for service!!! Jay, Mike and Tommy wore ties! I meant to get a picture of the three of them... I forgot.

I feel good about my team. I'm ready for the season to start. There was only one guy who I never beat last season and that was Laubach. My main goal this year is to beat him when I play him.... oh, and move up in the ranks. I finished last season at #2, so winning the whole thing is my only option!

Girls Night Out

2008-08-24T20:50:00.005-05:00

Saturday night we had a Girls Night Out with our women's group at church. There were several conflicts, so it was a small group, but we had a ton of fun none the less. This is usually one of my favorite events of the year, because I LOVE laser tag!!! The first time we played, I was ranked #1. The last time we played Kelly Warner took it from me. How dare her! My goal was to get that back.

We split into two teams. The first game I was MVP of my team, but ranked #2. Dang you Michele. My team lost by just a little. It was on. Game two we had some unwanted boys that got put on our team. Which totally changed everything. I had an aweful, AWEFUL game. Barely scored any points, and I ranked #8. Seriously????? My team won though. Technically, we're 1-1, so we need a rematch to decide the actual winner of the night.

I am very competitive, and really really hate that I did soooooo bad. Lesley was so kind and loving as she made eye contact with me this morning as I walked out on stage.... holding up eight fingers. Nice.

Impressive

2008-08-23T12:50:00.002-05:00

Of course I'm impressed with my little Ray.... all mothers are with their kids. But I'm always a little extra proud with anything that has to do with music. James and Saraya were riding in the car Thursday, listening to the radio. Phil Collins Hold on My Heart was playing. After Saraya listened for awhile, she says, "Daddy, this sounds like the Tarzan song". Wow!!! I was very proud that she recognized Phil Collins voice!!!!!!

If you like to talk to tomatos.....

2008-08-16T18:26:00.003-05:00

Today we went to Lifeway so that Saraya could meet Bob and Larry. When we got out of the car I told her what we were doing, she was soooo thrilled. Larry was the first one we saw. She was all smiles when she saw him. We had to wait in line for a little while. By the time we were at the front of the line, she had seen several kids cry and she was a little nervous. So... there's no picture of her with Larry. When we walked away she said, "I won't be shy with Bob Mom". We found Bob and she walked right up and got her picture made.

Tongue Tricks

2008-08-14T21:05:00.005-05:00

We were in the bathroom a few days ago, and I showed Saraya how you can roll up your tongue. She thought it was hilarious and has been doing it ever since.

Now, rolling up your tongue isn't really that special. Most people can do it. But then, we were eating at Chili's and she was showing James how she could do it. For whatever reason, it popped in my head to see if she can turn her tongue over.... because I can. I am proud to say that I have passed on my great trick!!! She did it with ease!

One Girl, One Boy

2008-08-13T22:04:00.008-05:00

Well, from the previous post you know that I love to take pictures. Tonight I took one year pictures of the sweet, adorable, cutest, makes you wanna pinch his cheeks, Houston. Saraya always loves when people come over to take pictures. She knows she gets to pose for me when I test the light. She also loves to entertain and try to make them smile. Here's my favorites of Saraya from tonight. She's so photogenic.... or at least I think so, but I'm suppose to say that right?? I put a couple of Houston on too. I didn't add the really funny ones of him eating his cake cause I didn't want to steal Misty's blog thunder. :-)

27 Things About Me

2008-08-10T18:46:00.011-05:00

Well, I've seen gals blogging about random things or lists, so I thought I'd do one of my own. Mainly because I was wanting to blog and had absolutely nothing to blog about. :-)

1. I love a good laugh. There's nothing like being with a friend and cracking up. That true deep down laugh. The one you can't stop or control.

2. I love my iPod. If you see me during the week, I've probably got it in my ears. I even have a speaker pillow, and most nights I fall asleep listening to it. I love listening to music. I also love podcasts. I have my regulars.... Francis Chan's sermons from Cornerstone Church in Simi Valley California, The Official Lost Podcast with Damon Lindeloff and Carlton Cuse, The Lost Podcast with Jay and Jack, and now I'm checking out a couple fantasy football podcasts.

3. I love things flavored with cinnamon, milk chocolate, caramel or lemon. However, I hate coconut, nuts mixed in things, and cooked fruit. I'm an ice cream and chocolate snob. I really only like the good stuff... like Ben & Jerry's, Marble Slab, Godiva and Toblerone.

4. I love instant messaging. It keeps me connected to one of my best friends, Sarah. Pretty much all day when I'm at work, we're chatting. We've been friends since the summer of 1990. We've been through so much, and I am so blessed to say that 18 years later, we're closer today than we were in high school. There are many miles between Jonesboro and Raleigh, but she doesn't seem that far away.

5. I love to shop at Charlotte Russe (when I have money to spend that is!). I usually spend any money I make from taking pictures or doing invitations in that store... which is what I was doing Saturday!! :-)

6. I love fantasy sports. I wasn't real sure if it would be my thing, but I love watching sports anyway, so I fell in love with it! It actually makes me want to watch teams other than "my" teams. Its fun to beat the boys too!!

7. I love the praise band. We have a great group of talented people. Every person brings something different to the table. We have really meshed as a group. We have a lot of fun at practice. Everyone in the band sacrifices time and effort, but most importantly, everyone is there to be used by God.

8. I love going to concerts. I think I could go to one every weekend if I could afford it. It wouldn't even matter who it was, I just completely enjoy live music.

9. I love facebook. I have found so many people from years ago, and it's been really fun to reconnect.

10. I love my church family. I have never been this happy at a church. I have never felt this connected with a group of people. There are so many people that make my life better just because they're apart of it. They're some of my favorite people on the planet!!

11. I love taking pictures. Of course, my favorite subject is Saraya! But I love taking pictures of just about anybody. I love getting that "perfect shot" for someone.

12. I love big hoop earrings. I have no idea why, but I always have!

13. I love spicy food. The spicier the better. I especially love indian, mexican and italian food. I love fresh guac. I love cilantro. I put it on everything I can.

14. I love Friends the tv show. I own all 10 seasons on dvd. I have seen every episode a million times... and they still make me laugh. I often quote it and most people don't even know what I'm talking about.

15. I love Burt's Beeswax Chapstick. I always have one with me. I also have one on my keyboard at work, and one by my bed. I don't wear lipstick, I wear the tinted Burt's Chapstick!!! I'm addicted to it you could say. My lips feel weird to me if I don't have it on.

16. I love to travel to big cities. I don't think I'm cut out to live in a big city, but they're so fun to visit. My favorites that I've been to are LA, Chicago, Las Vegas and NYC... I'd like to add Boston to that list.

17. I love old muscle cars. My first car was a '66 Mustang Coupe that my dad restored. I loved it. I regret getting rid of it. I love old cars because of my dad. I've gone to more car shows than I can count, but I wasn't drug there kicking and screaming... I wanted to go! My dad is restoring a '68 Camaro right now and I'm hoping I get to drive it!! One day I hope to own one again.

18. I love to drive fast. There's something about getting on a highway and just driving. I really enjoy it. Once again, my lead foot comes from my dad. I come by it honestly. Dad gave up drag racing when I was born. I've always had a desire to try drag racing.

19. I love to do things I'm good at. On the flip side of that, I have a problem doing things that don't come naturally to me. If I can't do it well, I'd rather not do it. I have a fear of looking stupid and being made fun of.

20. I love to play games. Board games, card games, anything... there's nothing better than a group of friends, playing games, laughing and enjoying each other.

21. I love LOST. I love to try and figure out what's going on. I love researching things, finding theories and seeing how things are connected. The show is so creatively written. It's amazing and it's very addictive.

22. I love my cell phone. It keeps me connected to my other best friend and cousin, Ashley. We talk every couple days. It makes me feel like she's just down the road. My cell phone is usually always with me. When my life is really busy (which is often these days) it's usually ringing a lot cause I'm planning something! Besides that, I like that you can get ahold of people so easily these days. It's hard to remember what it was like before them.

23. I love to scrapbook. Although I think my "scrapbooking" is changing. (I really like the photo books online!) I do still love the art of real scrapbooking, I just don't have the time to scrapbook everything like I used to. I think I'm going to keep it to a minimum, mainly vacations and Christmas.

24. I love circles. Anything that has circles on it, I'm drawn to.

25. I love flips flops. I start wearing them as soon as my toes can stand it, and I don't put them away til I absolutely have to. I also love having my toenails painted.

26. I love my family, James and Saraya. I love it when the three of us just hang out. I love Saraya's personality, her laugh, and her sense of humor. I love to watch James be such a great dad. (Even though I'm jealous sometimes that's she's such a daddy's girl..... I remember that I am too) I am blessed to have my parents. I love that I work with my dad, mainly because I get to see him 5 days out of the week. I love that I'm close to my brother, David. I love that my mother-in-law lives with us. I love all the brother/sister-in-laws I have, and I have wonderful nieces and nephews.

27. I love blogging. Obviously I love it so much, I came up with this list just so I could blog!! haha! I really do love it though. I love reading other peoples blogs too. It's such a great tool to keep up with people. Losing touch with people is easy cause life gets busy. But I can keep up with friends that I don't see that often and it makes me feel like I'm still in on their life.

J and Fe

2008-08-03T21:56:00.011-05:00

Saturday was the big day!! Jason and Felicia tied the knot. Saraya was a flower girl for the second time and she assured us, "I won't be shy this time". And she wasn't. She walked right up there and stood the whole time. She looked just beautiful in her little dress.

Fe looked beautiful and so did her girls.

The ceremony was beautiful. Crossroads looked like a completely different place!

The happy Mr & Mrs!!!!!!!

Peace....

2008-07-31T21:37:00.003-05:00

Death is never an easy thing. I have never been one that deals easily with it, especially with ones that I'm close to.

Today, I lost my wonderful friend Melissa to cancer. She's been fighting since last fall. We sung together in the praise band for several years. We reconnected after her diagnosis, and emailed frequently. We both were able to share with each other how much our friendship meant, and both knew that if we could just turn back time, we would take better advantage of the time we had together. She was so very strong in her faith. She was such an inspiration and an example. Words really can't describe her. Mel was full of life, very animated, and always had a story to make you laugh. Music can bring back so much, and there are certain songs that will always remind me of Mel. So much of my praise music has Mel and her key written on it. As hard as it is to see right now, I'm glad I'll always have a small reminder of her.

She always knew that no matter what her journey was, that God was in control. Even when she couldn't see Him, she trusted Him. She never strayed from that, she rested in it.

I've asked God too many times to count, "Why God? Why Melissa??" But I must rest in the fact that He is in control. That even though her journey on this earth is over, her legacy will live on. Once I can get past my selfish reasons of why she should be here with us, I know I will be jealous that she's walking on the streets of gold and she's celebrating, singing, worshiping and seeing Jesus face to face.... what could be better??????

The Food Crew

2008-07-30T21:54:00.005-05:00

Every year at VBS I've been on the food crew. It's a hard but fun job. Misty and I try our best to get things organized but we could never be successful at it without great helpers!!! Kelly's been with us a couple years and this is Lesley and Stephanie's first year. One things for sure, in the midst of all the chaos, we make sure to fit in plenty of laughs, plenty of fun and apparently this year, plenty of butt-slappin'!! (Love you Kelly!!!) Here's some pics of us in our ice cream truck!! Of course, they thought it would be HILARIOUS to make me the driver and they could all look like I was slamming on the brakes about to kill them. Seriously, I'm not THAT bad of a driver people!!! I just speed a little.... that's all. :-)

11 hours...

2008-07-27T23:01:00.002-05:00

That's how long I was at church today. I will be the first to admit that I have a ton on my plate right now. And yes, I get stressed. I am very grateful that I didn't scare off three of my friends today. :-) I would post about the ice cream truck we built all day, but I can't write anything as great as Misty's post. So just go read hers. Even if you don't know her, just be a blog stalker (like Lesley!), it's okay!!!

Memphis Part Two

2008-07-27T00:13:00.007-05:00

Nothing I do is uneventful. After Graceland, we went to eat at On the Border. When I got in my car it wouldn't start. It wouldn't turn over a lick. Stephen went back inside and found someone with booster cables. (I know, I know.... I work in a parts store... you'd think I'd be more prepared). We got it started and I drove straight to Target and purchased some booster cables. We went to the mall and I had high hopes that it would start once we were leaving. No go. So we boosted it off Aunt Susie's car this time. I was super paranoid the whole way home..... but we made it.

Cousin Rebekah and Saraya

Cousin Stephen and Saraya

Saraya with her Aunt Ashley... and namesake!!

We're goin' to Graceland....

2008-07-26T22:48:00.017-05:00

I have only been to Graceland once, when I was 16. We only went through the mansion, and I barely remember it. (Here's a blast from the past! It was 1991)

Shawna, me and Sarah

Ashley and the rest of the Liles gang had never been to Graceland. Ashley's been in Nashville for a week visiting the fam and we decided to meet up in Memphis for the day. I was actually really excited about going again. I knew I would soak more in this time. Plus all the other things that I'd never seen. Mom of course had seen most of it. And she was our personal tour guide. ha! We kept having questions and by golly, she knew the answers. My mom was a HUGE Elvis fan in high school and has been ever since. I always remember growing up listening to his music and watching his movies. And that's the case for Ashley and the others too.

The mansion was almost like I remembered. Some rooms were smaller than I thought they were. But my favorite room was still the Jungle Room.

Here's Saraya in the room full of gold records.

My precious family. We've always had a strong bond with this particular branch of the family tree. We've always vacationed together and been close. I love that I can say that Ashley is more than my best friend, she's family.

Me, Stephen, Ashley, Brent, Rebekah and Aunt Susie

Ashley and me

And here I am, 16 years later in front of the car museum again.... with a lot better hair! :-)

Saraya and me

Stephen, Aunt Susie, Brent and mom

I've always been intrigued by the wall, the thought that people from all over the world come and write their name on here. I very plainly remember writing my name on there when I was 16. I revisited the wall 10ish years later and actually found it. But this time, it was faded and I couldn't find it. Saraya and I both wrote our names on the wall.

At the gift shop, Saraya picked out a bear with pictures of Elvis all over it. She said she named him Elvis. (Appropriately) She very proudly exclaimed to me at the end of the day, "Mommy, I'm very glad we got to go to Elvis' house!"

a girl and her dogs....

2008-07-20T15:24:00.004-05:00

Just a few pics I took today. No real story to go with them. Except that she's a cutie!!

Saraya loves to play with Gus and Perky. She wanted to get her picture made with them. I tried my best.

just now...

2008-07-18T14:38:00.002-05:00

...I'm having a conversation with Saraya. I enlisted her help with making up bags for inviting kids to VBS. I love conversations with her. She's so funny. It went something like this:

S: Where did you get this chalk from mommy?
D: Mrs Cristi bought it.
S: That was VERY nice of her.

S: Are you going to tape these [closed]?
D: No, I'm going to tie them.
S: Ty's not a new friend.
D: No, I'm going to tie the ribbon, I wasn't talking about Ty your friend.
S: I know. But Ty's not a new friend. He's my bestest buddy. But he's not a new friend. Just Mason's a new friend. And Ross is a new friend. And Addie's a new friend.
D: That's right they are new friends.
S: But Elijah's not a new friend either.

Then she broke out in song...... what song you ask? Why, Jingle Bells of course!!!

the smell of pigskin is in the air.....

2008-07-17T22:36:00.007-05:00

I love football. (Not as much as basketball of course) I love football games. I love to bundle up. I love to cheer on my team. (Reigning Super Bowl Champs I might add!!!) I love watching games on Sunday afternoons. I love playing fantasy football. I love having a friend that loves football too. And that friend is Cristi.

She called me up earlier this week and asked if I wanted to go to the women's only Football Clinic at ASU. Of course I was up for it!! We didn't really know what to expect. But it was a BLAST! Here we are with jerseys on that they let us wear all night.

They fed us (from Outback!) out on the balcony overlooking the field. Then we went into a room and reviewed tape, talked about football equipment, we met some football players. One was QB Corey Leonard, to which Cristi leans over and asked me "do you think he'd remember us?" (he spoke at our church last fall) and I replied, "I highly doubt it". Then we played a game. They drew names and Cristi was a lucky winner! We had just gone over how to dress in full uniform, and the team had to dress one of their members. Cristi was the one they dressed and her team won!!! Their team got sports bags for winning. And she got to keep the wristbands.

We had two sessions, one on defense and one on offense. It was very interesting and I feel like I learned a lot. We then toured the facility, and ended up on the field. That was the best part. They let us do all kinds of drills. My personal favorite was pushing the sled. Here's a picture of me about to push the sled. (Cristi wasn't so good at the taking of pictures. Bless her heart.)

We also attempted to kick a field goal. I have a new respect for kickers. It was WAY harder than I thought it was going to be. I got this great picture of Cristi kicking. You can see the ball just a few feet off the ground.

Then we went in and they gave out prizes. Cristi racked up tonight! She won a digital photo frame!!! We raced home to see if we'd be on the news. Cristi was... in her full uniform, jumping up and down and striking her muscle pose. (I know Jake was proud) The only problem was she was in a helmet and no one knew who she was! :-( But never fear. There's always Occasions Magazine. They saw a great opportunity to take our picture with the field in the background, so we're holding out hope that they'll make us famous!

sweet baby....

2008-07-14T13:13:00.004-05:00

I took these pictures of my new nephew Eli yesterday. He's such a cutie! You can check out his birth announcements on my design blog.

Music Lover

2008-07-05T18:36:00.004-05:00

No shock that's a title for me, but it's quickly becoming a title for Saraya. I bought the new Sugarland single off iTunes this week, All I Wanna Do. The first time I played it, Saraya sang the ooh's for the chorus instantly. Today, I'm sitting here reading blogs and I came to Randi's. That song started playing and Saraya came running over to the computer as soon as the first few notes played, humming along with the verse. And of course went to town with the oohs as soon as the chorus started!! She started running around, dancing, and even told me to turn it up. It was hilarious! I grabbed the camera and took some pictures of her. I think it's safe to say that's her favorite song right now!!!!

4th of July

2008-07-04T22:56:00.007-05:00

With all the people gathered in parking lots to catch a glimpse of the fireworks, the leadership team came up with the idea to pass out glow necklaces with our church's web address on them. A group of us met up at the church, broke up into groups and passed them out... all 500 of them!!! It was fun to walk around and pass them out to the kids. Their eyes would lite up when they saw them. Hopefully someone will look us up on the web, and pay us a visit.

(Maddie, Cailey, Lexi, Ty, Abby and Saraya)

We met up after we were done passing them out and watched the fireworks all together. It was fun.
(Cristi and me)

I Heart NY... I miss it too....

2008-07-04T16:29:00.004-05:00

It's hard to believe that two weeks have already past since my first day in New York City. Man, time flies. Of course I had to buy something with the traditional I Heart NY on it. Here's us modeling the goods!

Connections....

2008-07-04T16:21:00.002-05:00

I love having friends with connections!! :-) When a friend can score you front row seats, you know you have a great friend! haha! Just kidding Lesley, I'd love you even if we were in the rafters.

I am totally pumped about being on the front row for Little Big Town and Carrie Underwood!!!!! Now the countdown begins....

I dropped a chain...

2008-07-01T22:07:00.005-05:00

...turns out it was a chain I didn't even know I was carrying. I was forced to face a very difficult situation five years ago. It involved a fellow church member, and left me with so many different emotions. We left the church, I thought I'd moved on, and I haven't seen her since.

Within the last month, I had a conversation with a friend where the situation came up and I actually spoke these words, "I honestly don't know what I'd do if I saw her." Since that conversation she's actually popped into my mind a few times.

Apparently God was prepping me...

Last Saturday, I was in line for the bathroom in Target, and as I stood there she walked out of the stall. Instantly, and I mean instantly, anger, hatred, bitterness and resentment flooded me from head to toe. I could hardly contain myself. I actually had time to think to myself, "talk to her? don't talk to her? make eye contact? or not?". Then she left.

As I walked around Target trying to access where in the world all this came from, I just couldn't get past the anger. I didn't even know I was carrying it. I didn't know it was in me. I was completely livid.

Yet, in the midst of my emotions, I could hear Him say, "let it go --- you weren't in the wrong back then, but you're in the wrong now." I stuffed it down inside. I didn't have time to deal with it. I was busy. But it kept creeping back in my thoughts.

Sunday morning, while the band was going through our set, we got to the medley of Sanctified and Cannot Say Enough. It was almost like a bubble formed around me. I forgot all about the band being there. I didn't hear the guitarists talking. I didn't hear the soundguys in the back. It was just me and God, and all I could do was worship... and let it go. Moments like that are amazing. Almost as if time is standing still, and you can feel His presence wrapped all around you. And so my favorite line in that song actually happened, right then and there.... we worship with the sound of broken shackles falling to the ground.

Call me Mario....

2008-06-30T17:14:00.005-05:00

Well, this afternoon was eventful. Dad asked me to run an errand for him, so I left the parts store and called my friend Sarah. We were talking as I was driving, and after I turned onto Main St from Nettleton, I looked in my rear view mirror to see a cop behind me with his lights on. I had no idea why he was pulling me over. I got off the phone and dealt with the cop. As I was giving him my driver's licence, my phone rang. It was Lesley. Of all the people to call me while I was sitting there. (She's scared to ride with me). Once the cop was in his car, I called her back. I really didn't want to tell her where I was. :-) As soon as I said I was pulled over, she said, "were you speeding???". I really wasn't..... but she didn't believe me. I got off the phone with her and just a few seconds later, my brother called. As soon as I picked up the phone he said, "did you get pulled over?" How in the world did he know that???? I was still sitting there! Apparently Jana had driven by and saw me in the parking lot.

The cop came back to my car and said, "I pulled you over for crossing the center line when you turned right." Oh good grief. The one time I'm actually NOT speeding, I get pulled over!!!

But the icing on the cake was the fact that I changed car insurance companies the week before I went to New York City, and in my haze of getting ready to leave, I never put my proof of insurance in the car. So, even though he gave me a warning for my weaving, he wrote me the ticket for no proof of insurance. Now I have to go through the hassle of going up there and proving it and getting it dropped. Sheesh.

I missed that girl....

2008-06-26T12:38:00.003-05:00

It was so nice to wake up this morning to Saraya climbing in our bed and wrapping her arms around me giving me a hug. I know she loves me, but she's such a daddy's girl that sometimes I wonder if I'm just a little bit lower than James. But I could really tell that she missed me and that she was overjoyed to see me! Which of course, thrilled my soul...

This morning as we were getting ready, Saraya asked me where her play hair dryer was. I told her where I saw her playing with it before I left. She went to find it and when she returned to the bathroom she looked at me and said, "You're a genius".

She so makes me laugh. And I really missed that while I was gone.

Day five: pt three

2008-06-25T17:59:00.001-05:00

Well, I thought I was done blogging but my plane has been delayed. zzzzzz...... don't these people know I could've spent more time in the city!!