The Millsaps

A New Season

2010-11-16T09:22:00.002-05:00

The Millsap family is embarking on a new journey. A journey to four vs. three. We are in the process of adopting a little girl from Ethiopia. We would love for you to follow us in this new journey.

www.themillsapadoption.blogspot.com

It's Whats for Breakfast

2009-10-11T13:19:00.003-04:00

Hannah fixed me breakfast this morning. When I came downstairs this is what I found...

Although I totally love all the above items and she obviously knows me very well - I was able to talk her into a bowl of cereal.

If anyone is still out there...

2009-07-21T22:12:00.003-04:00

I am actually posting something and if no one is still out there - I completely understand. I would have given up on myself too.

I don't even know the last time I posted - I think it was in March and a lot has happened since March. Hannah finished Kindergarten and has been spending the summer at Y camp with David. She has had a very busy summer and is loving every minute of it. I can't believe we only have a few short weeks until it is off to 1st grade. I really need time to slow down - OK? Thank you!!

We got a chance to head to the beach for about 10 days the beginning of this month and boy was it wonderful. My parents bought a house in Daytona last year and we couldn't wait to take Hannah to the beach. It was her first time and she loved it!! That is until she discovered the water slide at the pool and then we didn't spend much more time on the beach. I will say that going to the beach with a five year old is a lot different than going with my mom and taking a book and our drinks and spending all day reading and sleeping. Not as relaxing - for sure. But it sure was fun.

My parents were with us for the first few days and we had a ton of fun. Then, we stayed for the rest of the week and just basically did nothing. Yeah - it rocked my world. I have included some pictures below.

First time on the beach:Visiting the alligator farm in St. Augustine. This place was amazing. Hannah got up close and personal with a alligator and a snake.

Um, yeah. Hannah and I climbed this lighthouse. All 219 steps. My child was literally cheering me to the top. Holy Cow.

This was on the 4th of July. We took our chairs to beach and watched fireworks all around us. It was perfect.
Building sand castles.
There are a ton more pictures where these came from, but I am going to take it slow and easy. Here's to hoping I can post again before this time next year. For those who have read this, thanks for sticking with me.

2009-03-15T19:47:00.002-04:00

Hannah studied about Noah's Ark in her class tonight at church and filled the ark with a lot of animal stickers. When we got home I found she had added a few more stickers to her Noah Ark picture. Who knew Hannah Montana joined Noah on the Ark? I bet she wasn't singing "Best of Both Worlds" bahaha :)

Update

2009-02-04T17:39:00.011-05:00

This is about to be the update of all updates. I know it has been since Thanksgiving and there has been a lot of life lived in these past couple of months.

As always, the Christmas festivities started around the middle of December. Hannah had Christmas parties at school and then also got to participate in a Walk through the birth of Jesus at church. Our churches childrens program is out of this world and this was a really neat experience. The highlight was at the end when the kids gathered around the manger to see Baby Jesus. Precious.

For the second year in a row we went to ICE! with the Taylors. We had a blast and Hannah loved riding down the slide.

David's parents were able to come this year for Christmas and we had such a nice visit. We went to the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service sponsored by our churches new Spring Hill campus initative. It was really a sweet time. After the service, we did our 2nd annual Christmas Eve get-together with the Taylors. The girls always have such a good time together and they enjoyed exchanging gifts. They also made their reindeer food.

Christmas was so fun and Hannah had a blast. The only thing she really asked for was a princess charm bracelet. Thankfully Santa was able to find that at Claire's in the mall. She also got a barbie scooter and other odds and ins. She was one happy little girl. My parents came over and we had Christmas Brunch.

We got a new puppy that has been named Max. Hannah loves the puppy and carries him around all the time. Bless him. He has been a sweet addition to our house.

Another big deal in our house is Hannah has lost not only one but two teeth. This little girl was so stinkin excited. The first one was super loose and she let me pull me. She was so excited about the tooth fairy. The second one was lost while eating corn on the cob and was swallowed. Not too worry though. Hannah had me write the tooth fairy a note and she signed it explaining the situation. All was good.

OK seriously I think that is about it in a nutshell. For those still reading - bless you.

I am off next week to Florida with my mom and step-dad to help them paint their new beach house - Praise the Lord. My flip flops are waiting to be packed!!!

Thank you for sharing in our life. We are truly blessed because of you.

2008-11-30T22:05:00.002-05:00

The Millsap's have had such a relaxing and wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday. We celebrated on Thursday with my mom, stepdad, my aunt and uncle and some of my aunt's family. It was very low key and nice. We cheered on the Titans and ate a lot. My aunt and uncle from Lexington were not able to come because my aunt broke her wrist a few weeks ago and was unable to make the trip. They were greatly missed!!
I took on the task of painting Hannah's playroom. It is pretty much the only room in our house that was not painted and it has been on my to-do list for a while. We painted all the walls pink and then I did yellow squares on one wall. It turned out so good and Hannah loved it. David painted some frames for me and also a shelf that we had. I am so glad to be able to mark that off my list.
We took Hannah to see Bolt with the Taylors and both her and Jenna liked it a lot. It was the 3D version and very good.
We still have some Christmas decorations to put out (including the tree), but that may wait until next weekend. The outside is done so that is a start. I can't believe tomorrow is December 1st.

Thanksgiving always makes me realize how much we have been blessed. Far beyond what I deserve for sure.

Happy Birthday Mama!!

2008-11-18T06:52:00.002-05:00

I am celebrating you today. You are the most fabulous woman I know. You have taught me how to give unselfishly and how to love with with absolute abandon. We have lived through things that no one else would ever believe, but it's not those time I remember. It's the laughs and the triumphs. It's surviving when all the odds were against us. That is what I remember and those are the seasons that have made us into who we are today. You bring so much joy to my life and it is you I want to call first when I am happy and you I want to call first when I am sad. You always know the right answer and you celebrate like only a mama can.

So, happy birthday to my mom and my friend. I love you madly!!!

Kindergarten Rewind...

2008-11-15T12:38:00.029-05:00

Okay it has been a while... nevertheless, hold on as we re-live the past few months of Kindergarten.

Awards Assembly

These were taken at Longview Elementary School Student Award Assembly. This Assembly was to recognize outstanding student achievement. Dr. Ulrich called each student up and presented them with their award and then they ran in the "Reptile Relay" (Longview's mascot is a Lizard... go figure). We ended the day by joining some of Hannah's friends at Applebees for dinner. Way to go Hannah! we are so proud of you!

Gentry's Farms (Kindergarten Field Trip)

This was a really fun day. The Kindergarten classes from LVES went on their first field trip to Gentry's Farm in Franklin, TN. Gentry's farm ranks as a must do for Williamson County residents. The farm has been in the same family for over 118 years. It was so much fun for the kids. Each class traveled around the farm on tractors and wagons. They got a chance to visit 3 of the barns that are listed on the national historic registry (who would have thought...a barn). The day came to end with a visit to the pumpkin patch where Hannah chose a pumpkin that still resides on our front porch.

Scarecrow Day

This was a fun project and a fun day for Hannah. Plaid was something that we had none of in our house. Hannah suggested "let's go to Target." Off we went where she found a shirt and a straw hat (notice that according to Hannah it had to match), this had us going back to get another shirt to cut up and make patches. The things we do...

Reptile Ruckus

Most schools would call this a Harvest Fest, but remember LVES is very proud to be lizards (or as Hannah would say...yizards). She had a great time playing all the carnival games. Nana and Papa joined us for a while. It was fun but there was so much to do and her friends were everywhere so she had a hard time choosing what to do first! The best part was Hannah dunking her teacher in the dunk tank.

Well that catches us up on all Kindergarten happenings.

How fast they grow up...

2008-09-23T09:20:00.003-04:00

The pictures say it all...

We're Alive and Takin' Kindergarten By Storm

2008-09-14T19:11:00.005-04:00

It has been forever and so much has gone on since the last post. I have come to the conclusion that I really stink at updating this thing. I will try and do better. The biggest thing in our household is that we have a Kindergartner in our midst. For those wondering I didn't cry hardly at all. The main reason being that she went about 100 different days before it was even the 1st day of school. So, I never knew when I was officially suppose to cry. She had testing one day and then went another day for 1/2 day orientation. Then she went two days for 1/2 days to get accustom to everything. By the time the 1st day rolled around - I was ready. Here is a picture of the official 1st day.

The moment I teared up was at this point. David and I were walking her to her class room and she was leaving us in the dust. She looked so grown up and was ready to take on the world. Eyes straight ahead. She was not the least bit afraid and not the least bit apprehensive. She was ready for this. Mom - not so much :)

This is how we left her - sitting at her table and about to take on her 1st Kindergarten task. Coloring this picture. She had this in the bag :).

She has already had homework and bought her lunch. I can't believe how much she has grown in just these three weeks. And - she has gotten all "green lights". Now that, my friends, is simply amazing. Here's to a good, green light year :)

Birthday Fun

2008-08-08T23:36:00.010-04:00

As has been true the past couple of years, Hannah had about a bazillion birthdays. We have been celebrating the past 2 weeks. Here is a re-cap of the festivities...

My mom and I took birthday cookies to Hannah's daycare on the 22nd (her actual birthday). She loved passing out the cookies and being the center of attention (of course).

That night we celebrated with Nana and Papa at Chuck E' Cheese. They have the Deal or No Deal game there and I really think my mom and I had more fun than Hannah. We only knocked a couple of kids out of the way.

I really thought we had gotten over the "character" thing while at Disney World but if you will notice Chuck E is up dancing with other kids and Hannah is under the table. She literally stayed under the table until he was gone. Bless her.

The following Saturday we had her party with friends at The Monkey's Treehouse. I highly recommend this place. The kids had a blast and I love anywhere where I can show up and then leave!!

Last, but certainly not least...this past weekend we celebrated with my aunt and uncle. They along with my mom and stepdad gave Hannah the gift above all gifts. My aunt and uncle built her this dollhouse. And, let me tell you it is complete with wallpaper, hand-made curtains and hand-made rugs. Then, my parents supplied all the furniture. It is every little girl's dream. You must all come and play!!

I'm leaving you with this picture...Hannah's backpack I ordered her was waiting on our doorstep when we got home today. I'm not ready, friends - not ready at all.

Dear Hannah:

2008-07-22T09:48:00.002-04:00

I can not believe five is already here. Everyone says how fast the time will fly and to take in every minute. I have all of these snapshots in my head of you over the past 5 years and they all bring me smiles. You are such a spark of light to our household. You never cease to amaze me and daddy with the things you know and the words you use. You keep us laughing all the time and once you know something makes us laugh you want to keep doing or saying it over and over.

We label you as strong willed and even though that can be a challenge at times, we would not have it any other way. There is never a dull moment and it keeps our prayer life active.

You love everything girl. From princesses, to Barbie’s, to Hannah Montana and everything in between – you are all girl. You have a say in how your hair will be worn and what clothes you will wear. You love to dress up and put on mommy’s shoes and you love to dance and sing. One of your favorite things to do is to pretend you are on American Idol or So You Think You Can Dance and get up in front of us and do your thing. Then we have to vote and we always have to say “Congratulations – you’re going to Hollywood” and then you will scream and pretend to cry because you are so excited. I love it. It makes me laugh out loud every single time. You are an artist and are forever drawing pictures and coloring. You love to practice your letters and try to spell things. It is so fun to be able to tell you the letters to put to spell a word and you can do it. You are just so full of life and love and I am never disappointed in what the day brings.

I love watching you as you are starting to understand Jesus. The questions you ask are already getting hard. Sometimes when we are in the car, you will say “Mom, I love Jesus” and it makes my heart soar every single time. It is going to be such a joy watching you figure out His love for you and what it means to be His child.

I can not believe in just one short month we will be saying goodbye to daycare and hello to Kindergarten. You are so ready. You are independent and social and I know you are going to love it. We are welcoming a whole new season of life and I hope it is everything you want it to be.

Mommy’s prayer for you is to continue to embrace life with the same gusto you have right now. I pray you will love with the same passion and although there will be new obstacles and new hurts you have not yet experienced, you will always know you can come home and be safe and loved. Mommy and Daddy are so proud of you and we are so thankful God has entrusted us with your care.

I love you. Happy 5th Birthday.

Swim Lessons

2008-07-13T22:51:00.004-04:00

Things have been busy at the Millsap house the past couple of weeks. Whitley is adjusting well at our house and she really is a good dog. Hannah also started swim lessons and actually just finished her first round of beginners lessons. She made such a huge improvement from the first session to the last session. She is start the beginners-intermediate session tomorrow and she is so excited. One of her favorite parts was the slide. However, it took her about 3 minutes to get down it because she would scoot down with her hands and feet on the side so she wouldn't go fast and go under water. That is what we are hoping to work on in this next round.

Last weekend Hannah wanted me to straighten her hair. She thought that was so cool. It didn't last very long - it started curling up not long after we did it.

This little girls turns five next week and I absolutely can not believe it. She only has about a month left at her daycare before Kindergarten starts. What an exciting season in her life.

Whitley...

2008-06-26T08:55:00.005-04:00

This is the newest member of the Millsap Family. For starters... this is David. Rach is usually the one responsible for updates on this blog. However, she is working and I'm home with Hannah (who came home sick from school yesterday) and our new dog Whitley. We (okay more me than Rach) have have been talking with Hannah about getting a puppy. Well all it took was a trip to the Williamson Animal Control Shelter for a community service project with work to convince me that Whitley needed to be that puppy. She is a Jack Russell/Miniature Italian Greyhound mix. She is very sweet 3 month old (a little timid of her new surroundings) who loves to cuddle. Hannah went with me yesterday to get her. I wish I had the camera with me to get a picture of Hannah. I was quite unsure of how she would react. Talking about it is one thing but bringing one home...well there was no turning back now. When they brought her out to us Hannah with the biggest grin on her face said "ah... daddy hers is so toot (AKA, cute)." Hannah is getting more and more brave with petting (she said that she is just not ready to be licked yet). The car ride home was interesting... Whitley cried and shook while Hannah talked to her to sleep. Last night we realized that Whitley is more crate trained than we thought, when bedtime came, she went right in and slept the entire night with no accidents. Right now the girls are watching Disney Channel. I'm sure there will be more Whitley/Hannah stories to come...

(after exploring the house she found a place for a quick nap)

Walt Disney in Pictures

2008-06-20T23:06:00.009-04:00

OK - Here are the highlights from our trip. I can't even tell you how much fun we had. It was so neat to experience it through Hannah's eyes.

Nothing makes waiting in the Atlanta airport go by faster than a little time spent with the Barbies.

Hannah loved the rides (except Tower of Terror :)). Here she is on the Magic Carpets. Only Disney can get away with having you wait in a line for almost 40 minutes to ride something that just goes in circles and up and down. Seriously.

This is a picture of the things that were displayed while we were waiting in line to ride Toy Story. It was so cool.

They had a High School Musical show at Hollywood Studios and Hannah loved it. She even participated a little.

At the Magic Kingdom we took her to the Bibbity Bobbity Boutique and she got her hair and makeup done and then her nails painted. She didn't love it as much as I thought she would, but it was fun for me :).

Here are some pictures we got with the "celebrities". We had a princess breakfast with some of the princesses, but not Cinderella and Ariel. We waited in line and I mean we WAITED IN LINE to get their picture and autograph of course.

Here is one of Hannah's favorite things...the pool.

And last, but for sure not least...Mickey and Minnie.

Back to the Real World

2008-06-15T23:35:00.002-04:00

We got back home from Disney Saturday afternoon and it was with mixed feelings. It is always nice to come back to some sort of normal routine, however, leaving Disney World is not easy. It is magical for sure. I have a ton of pictures and will share some as soon as I get them off of my camera. The highlights were seeing all the characters (especially the Princesses) and the pool. The last night we were there I asked Hannah what her absolute favorite thing had been and she sat for a minute and then replied, "the pool". If only I had known I could have just taken her to the Rec Center. She then thought of other things that she liked too.
It was so awesome to experience everything through Hannah's eyes. Everything was just bigger than life to her and she would get so excited to see different things. I loved every minute.

M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E

2008-06-04T22:09:00.002-04:00

Excitement all around.

Graduation

2008-05-24T17:41:00.006-04:00

Hannah had her Pre-K Graduation on Thursday afternoon. I can not believe how fast the time has flown and the fact that she will be starting Kindergarten in just a couple of months.

The graduation was so sweet. There are about 20 kids in Hannah's class, but only 6 of them are leaving to go to Kindergarten. Of those six, four of them have been together since the infant room, so I am sure it will be weird when they don't see each other every day.

They started the program by singing a few songs.

Then Hannah got her "diploma"

The six graduates then gave a rose to their moms. A picture of this will not be included. It involved tears - from her mom of course.

Then it was time for cake and punch out on the playground.

Hannah -

Mommy and Daddy are so proud of you and all that you have learned. We are excited about this new season of life and can not wait to see what God has planned for you. We love you!

PJ Day

2008-04-20T22:00:00.004-04:00

Friday was Pajama day at Hannah's daycare. She was so fired up to get to wear her PJs and to see all of her friends in their pajamas.

This is Hannah and her friend Anna. They have been together at daycare since they were both infants - so they are pretty tight.

You may notice Anna is sporting a haircut that includes layers. This is not because her mom wanted her to have layers but because Anna and Hannah decided to cut each other's hair at daycare a couple of weeks ago. NICE!! The good thing for Hannah is her hair is so crazy you can not even tell she got a "haircut".

2008-03-29T18:53:00.002-04:00

Do you ever feel like you can't possibly take another piece of bad/sad news? I feel like I have been consumed with bad or sad news for the past few weeks. News that a high school classmate is now a widow at the age of 31 because of a brain tumor her husband had fought for 10 years or news that a friend and co-worker has lost (or should I say won) a 20+ year battle with cancer. Friends who are struggling to sale houses or friends who have family issues. The list just goes on and on. Sometimes I just need some encouragement that this is not what we are living for. As bad and scary as it is sometimes, we as Christians have so much more to look forward to. Praise Him. So, just in case you are needing some encouragement too - here are some verses I am clinging to right now. Blessings!!

"Christ in YOU, the hope of glory" Colossians 1:27

"Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh EACH morning" Lamentations 3:23

"So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" 2 Corinthians 4:18

Date Night - Barbie Style

2008-03-19T19:35:00.003-04:00

Upon entering our kitchen last night you would have found several Barbies and their men apparently on a date. I am assuming it was a group date (which makes me feel somewhat better since they are sitting on each other's laps - hopefully this is as far as it went). They look like they are having a good time.

By the way - my Barbie loving little girl went to get her shots for KINDERGARTEN today. Lord, give me strength!!

Oh, Yes Ma'am

2008-03-15T08:02:00.007-05:00

So, this

And this

Is now open in Spring Hill - just about 3 minutes from my house. I could not be anymore excited! I am taking my coupons I got in the mail and I am going today and I may stay until dark.
While we are at it - this is open too. About 3 minutes from my house and I have already partaken in the blessing.

"Every good and perfect gift is from above..." James 1:17
Give Him some praise!!!

2008-03-12T20:42:00.003-05:00

What kind of blogger would I be if I didn't post pictures of my child in the most snow she has seen in her four years of life??? It's only taken me almost a week.

Hannah loved the snow and had me and David outside at about 8:30 on Saturday morning to start playing. She couldn't wait another minute. It was a good thing because by about 10:30 it was melting away. Here are some pictures.

Honestly

2008-03-03T20:41:00.003-05:00

It has been almost two months since my last post. Are. You. Kidding. Me??? I just never can think of anything blog worthy to say. However, I get so frustrated when my other blogging friends don't update often. Let me see if I can tell you something that has been going on in our lives.
I just spent the whole entire weekend scrapbooking with Sandra. Super Wonderful. We have started this tradition of going to a scrapbook retreat in the fall and the spring. We already have the next one on our calendar.
We booked a vacation for Disney World in June and I am fired up about this. This will be the first real vacation we have had even before Hannah. I can not wait to go. Hannah is going to love it!

Well, guess what??? That's all I got. Two months and that is all I can think of. Unbelievable.

Few Words

2008-01-10T20:10:00.000-05:00

When I went to pick Hannah up from her Sunday School last week, this is the picture I was handed from her teacher. How can you top this? These are not the only kids in Hannah's SS class (by a long shot), so her teachers took the time to dress all the kids up and have them take pictures as small groups. Can you get over this. I am always thankful for the church that David and I attend and one of the biggest reasons is because of things like this. Teachers who probably work other jobs, but take time out of their lives to invest in the life of my child. These are the people who are going to have an eternal impact on Hannah. How can you say Thank You enough???

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

2008-01-02T20:29:00.000-05:00

I have totally skipped over Christmas. It is just too overwhelming to think about posting all the pictures. Let me just say a good time was had by all and I so enjoyed my step back watching it through Hannah's eyes. This has been my most favorite Christmas with her so far. Everything was fabulous to her and big and fun. I loved it.

I just wanted to wish you a fabulous New Year. No New Year resolutions here. Just a commitment to be a better wife, a better mother, a better friend and a better daughter - not only to my earthly mom and step-dad, but also to my Heavenly Father. My friend Sandra and I have started reading the One-Year Chronological Bible and I am beyond excited about it. I am sad to say I have NEVER read the entire Bible all the way through. I can't wait. I want to worship more, pray harder and dig into the Word with passion. He has great things for us friends - may we seek Him.

Psalm 90:2 (the Message)"...from 'once upon a time' to 'kingdom come' YOU ARE GOD."

I'm claiming that!!

YA'LL

2007-12-22T10:34:00.001-05:00

My baby is growing up. Hannah has NOT been a fan of Santa Claus for about 2 years now. She even decided when she was two that Frosty could bring her presents, but NOT santa. So, needless to say I have avoided the Santa picture lines at the mall for the past two years. We could stand on the second level and look down at Santa - even wave to him, but sit in his lap - oh no ma'am. This year Hannah's day care had picture day with Santa a couple of Saturdays ago. Hannah was so excited and talked a HUGE talk about telling him all she wanted for Christmas and getting her picture made with him. So, off we went to daycare to see Santa. This is how the day started...

Here is Santa

Here is Hannah (clinging to her daddy)

We finally made it when she would get her picture made, but only if David went with her. Better than nothing - right.

When we left daycare she had decided that Santa was nice and she wanted him to bring her presents. So Frosty has officially been released from all present brining duties.

The past couple of days Hannah has been dying to go to the mall and get her picture made with Santa. We had to run by the mall on Thursday night to pick up a few things and she said she wanted to sit in his lap and get her picture made. Well, Santa was at dinner, so we couldn't do it and I really didn't think she would do it anyway. So yesterday, I had my department lunch at work and then we get to leave after the lunch. Since Thursday night Hannah has been asking if we could go back to the mall and see Santa. We had some time to kill before we met my parents for my birthday dinner, so I thought we could go to the mall and get her picture made. I didn't think the line would be that long on Friday around 1:30. WRONG!!! Huge WRONG. My friend Sandra called while we were still in line and couldn't believe we were having to wait that long. We waited in line for almost 2 hours, but I had a little girl who was so excited. I think I asked her about 10,000 times if she was sure she wanted to sit in his lap and get her picture made and every time she said yes. You know what I am thinking...we are going to stand in this line and then she is going to change her mind. As we got closer she kept getting more and more excited. I would not trade those two hours for anything in the world. It was finally our turn and my little girl went right up to Santa, I put her in his lap, she told him what she wanted for Christmas, got her picture made, and gave him a hug. She was so proud of herself. She could not wait to tell Nana and Papa and her dad about sitting in Santa's lap. So, here is the proof and here is the reason I am taking a step back this year and trying to see Christmas through the excitement of my child. May we remember to be this excited about the real reason for the season. Merry Christmas!!!

2007-11-25T23:21:00.000-05:00

Holy Cow!! I can't believe how long it has been since I posted. A lot has been going on in the Millsap house - so here are just a few of the happenings...

We went to the Shrine Circus with Sandra and Jenna and the girls had a great time. Hannah rode a pony after she decided the elephant's were way too big. Not even riding with Jenna would convince her.

Hannah decided on a Princess (huge surprise) for Halloween. She was Sleeping Beauty or in Hannah language Seeping Booty. She loved getting candy but had more fun sitting on the front porch with her dad and handing out candy to other trick or treaters. Nana and Papa came over to trick or treat with us. It was a huge success.

Sandra and I went to see Steven Curtis Chapman at Allen Arena a couple of weeks ago and boy did we have a good time. We went to the the Great Adventure tour back when we were in high school and were on the front row. Well, we weren't on the front row, but 6th row isn't bad. It was a lot of fun and a great girl's night out.

Well, I think that is about it. We spent Thanksgiving with David's family in Oklahoma and got back home on Saturday. We had a nice time - if only we could do something about that 11 hour drive. We sure do have a lot to be thankful for!!

Happenings

2007-10-17T21:57:00.000-04:00

Friday night Hannah and I hung out with some of my friends from work Amy and Rebecca. Rebecca has the cutest twins you have ever seen and Hannah loved getting to play with them. Although she couldn't quite understand why they couldn't get in the play land with her and then ride down the slide in her lap.

Saturday afternoon Hannah had a birthday party to go to for none other than Malcolm. Please notice that the hair is down. Of course we wouldn't have it any other way.

This last picture is just because. Yesterday Hannah put on her tierra on the way to school and then fell asleep. Rebecca saw us on the way to school and thought that was hilarious. Well, yesterday afternoon as soon as we got in the car the tierra was back on. Oh the life of a princess...getting chauffeured by your driver while eating M&M's and reading your Weekly Reader.

Preview of Things To Come...

2007-09-30T23:05:00.000-04:00

My friend Sandra's little girl Jenna came over and stayed with us for a little while on Saturday and I took these pictures of the girls. It reminds me so much of me and Sandra - it was about this time in our lives we became friends.

I have a feeling this is only the beginning of these girls riding off into the sunset together - I hope so.

Things That Make My Heart Happy

2007-09-28T23:40:00.000-04:00

*Being the mom of one of the most hilarious and spunky little girls I know.
*Hanging out with my husband and daughter with no agenda in mind.
*Mountain Dew
*Season premieres (especially Grey's Anatomy)
*Friends - some that I have had for as long as I can remember and some that are new. I love them.
*My relationship with my mom
*PJ Saturdays
*Tuesday Bible Study with the One and Only and new friends.
*Learning more and more about Jesus and falling more and more in love with Him.
*My praise and worship music in the car on the way to work while Hannah snores in the backseat.
*My ipod
*Being loved by my family
*My heritage
*Going to church with David and Hannah
*Hearing Hannah say her prayers at night "God is good, God is great" and then thanking Him for her family and friends and rainbows.
*Hearing other people laugh
*Taking hot baths and reading.
*Being able to open the windows in my house.

I want to hear about the things that makes your heart happy.

2007-09-24T17:26:00.000-04:00

Hannah informed me when we got to her daycare this morning that we needed to go to the bathroom and fix her hair. When I questioned why since I had already spent time putting her hair up in a ponytail and it looked good if I may add, her response - "Malcolm likes it when I wear my hair down".

Are you kidding me??? Lord, give me strength.

Busy Times and Deeper Still

2007-09-08T21:19:00.000-04:00

Hey Everybody. Things have been a little hectic around here lately. I just got back from a week long seminar for my department at Fall Creek Falls State Park. It was a ton of fun, but I am tired. Several months ago, I got a ticket for Deeper Still (a women's conference being held at the Sommet Center) and it was this weekend. Not the best weekend for me since I have been gone all week and am tired. However, I had big plans back when I got the ticket. As the time drew near, I kept going back and forth on whether I was going to go or not. AND - I wasn't going with anyone since none of my friends were able to get tickets. As of yesterday afternoon I still hadn't made up my mind whether I was going or not. Well, as the time drew near, I just couldn't miss the opportunity to hear Beth Moore in Nashville. So, after I made a stop by work to drop some supplies off, I headed downtown to the Sommet Center. Friends...it was AWESOME and I am beyond glad I went. It was last night and then pretty much all day today. I just sat in the Sommet Center with 33,000 other women and a couple of men and had a blast. The worship was incredible and the teaching was just as great. Priscilla Shirer and Kay Arthur were there too. It was Fabulous! I am so glad I went. So rest will come tomorrow and then it will be back to work on Monday. Nothing like getting some spiritual renewal with thousands of other women. I can't even imagine what heaven is going to be like.

Good Friends + The Fair = Good Times

2007-08-12T11:34:00.000-04:00

We went to the Williamson County Fair on Saturday and Hannah had a blast. We met our friends Steve, Sandra and Jenna and it was so fun. Hannah and Jenna had such a good time riding ALL the rides and the adults even got to have a little fun too. Hannah and Jenna even rode the big Pirate Ship with me, David and Sandra. Hannah looked scared during the ride, but when it was over she said she liked it and was only a little bit scared. It was a perfect night to go. It was not crowded at all and it wasn't even that hot. There was a nice breeze. We had a blast.

I can't even tell you what a big deal it is that Hannah is even standing close to Bob and Larry (if you know our Santa story - you understand). When we saw them Jenna ran right over and then Hannah followed her. I think it took her a minute to realize she was actually standing this close to one of these things. She did let me get her picture if David would come and stand with her.

This was a little roller coaster and Jenna and Hannah loved it. Jenna had her hands up the first minute they got on. They rode it again at the end of the night and by then Hannah had her hands up too.

Now, David almost had a heart attack when Hannah wanted to ride this. They laid down on their stomach in a cage like thing. Needless to say they both LOVED it!!

AHH yes. No fair would be complete without a giant rainbow snow cone.

And now...it's time for a little fun for the adults. Sandra and I rode this thing and it was so fun. We did make a comment how old we felt when we sat down. We were surrounded by teenagers.

Birthday Weekend - Day 3

2007-07-22T21:06:00.000-04:00

We now have an official four year old in our house. I can't believe Hannah is already four. She has had one big weekend. The morning started off with a stop at the Donut Palace for some donut holes for her friends in Sunday School to celebrate her birthday. Then we came home to Papa, Uncle Al and Uncle Andy putting together a swing-set. This is a present from Papa, Nana, Aunt Lin and Uncle Al. She also had a message on the answering machine from Daddy wishing her a happy birthday from Moldova. We had to listen to it twice. We had birthday cake followed by more presents. She has had a big birthday!! We miss daddy and wish he were here to celebrate with us, but we know he is doing a good thing in Moldova. We are very thankful for Nana, Papa, Aunt Lin and Uncle Al for helping with all the birthday festivities.

Birthday Weekend - Day 2

2007-07-21T21:48:00.001-04:00

Well, one more successful day in the birthweekend. This morning we dropped David off at the airport and Hannah and I headed to Waffle House. We spent most of the day at my mom's just relaxing. Then it was time for the real fun. We had Hannah's friends at McDonald's Playland for her birthday and they had a big time. Hannah never grows tired being the center of attention, so needless to say she was in her element. There were eight kids all together and Hannah had a blast. She got so many neat presents. We ended the night with dinner with Nana, Papa, Aunt Lin and Uncle Al. So until tomorrow...

Birthday Weekend - Day 1

2007-07-20T23:45:00.000-04:00

When you are spoiled rotten you not only have a birthday, but birthweekends. So will be the case with the princess of our house. Today started the beginning of the birthweekend. David's parents came into town yesterday and tonight Hannah got her first present from me and David. David leaves for Moldova tomorrow, so we wanted to go ahead and give her the big present from us. So, Hannah is now the proud owner of a bright red mustang and she thinks she is something!!!

At first she didn't know what to think about it and was a little unsure of the whole thing, but it didn't take her long to get the hang of it. She went back into the house and got one of her babies and she was ready. You can't tell it here, but she also had her drink in the cup holder.

She was taking her baby to church and she would drop her off in her class and then go back and get her and put her in the car. It was so funny. I am sure in no time she is going to driving around everywhere.

So, day 1 of the birthweekend was successful. Stay tune for day 2.

On a side note, if you think about it, please lift up a prayer for David and his team. I know he will appreciate it.

RBC

2007-07-11T20:02:00.000-04:00

The church building I grew up is being sold within the next couple of weeks and I am surprised at how sad this has made me. This is a place a spent a significant amount of time for 19 years of my life. So much of who I am is because of this place and the people that came in and out of my life while we were there. I know church is not about a building, but when you can look at a place or think of a place and so much emotion rushes you...it feels like an important part.

My mom and dad started attending this church when I was 3 I think. Basically, it was all I ever knew.

It was the place where:

- I went to VBS for the first time and then every year after that.
- I was able to be a part of GA's and thought I was so grown up and cool.
- I would leave Sunday morning service with a friend and spend the afternoon with her and then come back to church with them that night. The fun you could have in those few hours was hard to come by any other time.
- I was able to go to the youth house when I became a 7th grader and the feeling of being able to walk across the street and into that house with all the youth was amazing.
- I was introduced to Centrifuge and youth camp and lock-ins.
- I felt the sadness of a youth minister leaving and then another and yet another.
- I felt the pride when my mom stepped up and agreed to teach the college class.
- I spent most of my summers either working at Camp Mack or just hanging out with my friends.

It was also the place where:

- I heard Jesus call my name when I was 9 and I stepped out of the aisle and walked down all by myself.
- I stood in the baptistry and heard my pastor ask me if I had accepted Jesus as my personal savior and I said yes.
- I learned what it means to be loved by people all most as much as your parents love you.
- My mom and I could feel safe when times were hard.
- I sat with my friend during her Mother's Home Going.
- I learned what it means to have a pastor who loves you like his own and want the absolute best for you.
- I cried my eyes out when he went to be with the Lord.
- I wish I could go back and it be like it use to be.

Just to be able to walk in those doors one more time and have Bro. Paul greet and hug me and be able to hug Mrs. Cry and go off to my class with all my friends and sit in the center section of the sanctuary with all the other youth. That is what I would like to do. It's not about the building - it's about the memories and the thankfulness of having the heritage where going to this place Sunday mornings, Sunday nights and Wednesday nights is going to be without a doubt one of the most important things I remember - EVER!

Randomness

2007-07-08T15:40:00.000-04:00

It has been a little while since I blogged lately (except for trying to get people to leave me messages :)). I have been wanting to do a wrap up post on Thailand, but to be honest - I'm just not ready yet. It is weird to me because when we left I knew I had a great time and I was very excited about having had the opportunity, but I didn't realize what an impact it would have on me once I was home. I miss it - honestly. I miss the feeling of true service and more than anything I miss seeing the people I really got to know while I was there. Today at church some of the team lead worship and I can't tell you the feeling of true excitement and pride that overflowed me. As I watched them and worshiped with them, I went down the row and I could tell you a way that each one touched me and how I got to know each one better while I was in Thailand. When you attend a church with over 6,000 members...that is a good feeling. It made me smile to see them. Every time I am asked about the trip the one thing I have continued to say is how thankful I am to have had the chance to travel with 100 other people across the country. Now when I see them in the hall at church, it isn't just a "Hi" or a nod - it is an all out hug. We have shared something together and that is a great feeling.

David leaves for Moldova in two weeks and Hannah's birthday along with a party at Playland will be that same weekend. A busy few weeks are ahead and I will for sure post pictures of the princess turning four. I can't believe how fast the time has gone.

Until next time...

2007-07-01T22:56:00.000-04:00

This is Hannah's sad face because no one has left a comment telling her Mommy how to fix the blog. Thankfully my friend Sandra is going to help me out. So, as soon as I call her and let her walk me through it - I should be in business.
So, if you stop by and read this blog at all, can I at least get a hello??? I always wonder who may stop by. Don't be a stranger...

I may be a dork BUT...

2007-06-24T12:38:00.000-04:00

Can someone please tell me how to get a picture at the top of my blog??? The one where when I leave a comment it will show up. Please help.

Almost the End

2007-06-16T01:08:00.000-04:00

I can't believe my time in Thailand is almost over. It is Saturday afternoon here and we will be leaving Chaing Mai heading to Bangkok tomorrow afternoon. We will be spending the night in Bangkok and heading to Tokyo, Chicago and then home on Monday.

This has been an amazing experience. I have gotten to see and do so many neat things. I am tired and will enjoy getting to see my family, but would not trade this for anything.

Yesterday was family day for the M's, so my kids were picked up at 12:00 and then we got to go out and have some sightseeing. We went to the elephant farm and it was unbelievable. We rode on the elephants and got to feed them. They were just walking around. It was amazing. We then got to go the orchid and butterfly farm. AMAZING. I got a lot of good pictures.

The kids in my room are doing so much better. They are finally getting use to us and the routine (now that is almost time to go). They are really sweet and it is amazing to hear some of their family stories.

I am on break right now and need to get back. Thanks again for the prayers. I have felt them. Please continue to pray as we wrap up tomorrow and head home. I can't wait to see and talk to you. I have lots of stories.

Talk to you soon.

I'm Here!

2007-06-12T20:38:00.000-04:00

Hey everybody. I'm in Thailand and everything is going really well. The flight was as uneventful as possible. Long - but really good. We didn't have any problems and everyone from our flight got their bags without any problems. It is so neat here and I still can't believe I am half way across the world.

Yesterday was my first day with my kids and let's just say it was a day. A lot of these kids have never been away from their parents. I ended up only getting about a 10 minute break all day. Let's hope today is better! The kids are precious and most of them did fine. Some just got a little extra love ALL DAY LONG!!

Last night a big group of us went to the night market. It was a sea of bargins and unbelievable things. I could have lost myself there. My mom and aunt would have been in heaven. It was like a huge flea market. I bought a few things. Everything is so cheap - NICE!! On the way home we rode a tuk-tuk. It was amazing! I have pictures. Tonight we are going to the Gem Market. That can only mean trouble!

Thanks so much for your prayers. They are truly felt and I appreciate all your support!

More later from Thailand....

Rach

If There Was Ever a Doubt...

2007-05-15T21:53:00.000-04:00

Doubt no more. This girl is for sure mine. I know Hannah has had a Krispy Kreme donut before, but I guess I have denied her the blessing of eating one in the resturant. Shame on me. We had some time this morning before her doctor's appointment, so we went to Krispy Kreme. She loved every minute. They were making fresh donuts and she thought that was really neat. She waved to all the employees and loved the fresh donut. I am sure we will be back - Man, I hate that :)

My Tribute

2007-05-12T18:56:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow is Mother's Day and I wanted to take a few minutes to love on my mom. For those that know her, you know how amazing she is. I could give a bizillion facts about her that would prove my point, but I will do to the highlights. She is such an example and there is no doubt in my mind I would not be the person I am today without her. She has left a heritage that I only can pray I leave with my family. She is the strongest, nicest, most humble, put others before her person I know. She has stopped to give medical advice at church, in the grocery store, at all hours of the night - because that is what she does. She has taken care of my countless relatives and friends going through health problems, etc. Including staying up with them all night and then going to work the next day. She put me through college with NO student loan and no help. She is the one I call when I am sad, sick, proud, happy or just in the car. I love hanging out with her. I am proud - very proud - to call her my mom and even prouder to say she is my friend.

Happy Mother's Day - I love you.

I've Been Tagged...

2007-05-11T19:10:00.000-04:00

I am so excited...my friend Ashley tagged me and this is my first time. For the two people who read this...here's the deal.

Each player starts with seven random facts about themselves. People who are tagged need to write on their own blog about the seven things and the rules. You need to choose seven people to tag and list their names. Don’t forget to leave them a comment that they have been tagged and to read your blog!

1. When I was growing up my mom (who is a nurse) wouldn't let me ride go carts because she took care of a girl in the emergency room who had long hair (so did I) and let's just say...she didn't have long hair anymore. We will leave it at that.

2. I went to the same church for 19 years and the same school for 13 years (Kind. - 12th grade). There was a lot of consistency in my life :)

3. When I was young, I busted my chin because I was standing on my tricycle in our basement and I fell off - then, I broke my arm because I was standing up in my red wagon and riding down the hill in our backyard and I fell out. I have learned to sit down and ride on things.

4. My first airplane ride was to London, England.

5. My friend Ashley and I almost died in a tornado on graduation day, because we didn't know what a culvert was. (Ok so we didn't almost die and I don't think there was even a tornado, but there was a tornado warning and on the radio they told you "if you are in your car stop and get in the nearest culvert" Ashley and I hurried home instead because we didn't know what a culvert was.) At that point I must say our parents were really rethinking the money they spent for us to go to private school!!!!

6. I left my favorite sweatshirt in Ashley's car - and then her car got stolen and then was found burned - my sweatshirt was no more. OK - so it wasn't my absolute favorite sweatshirt, but I like the story.

7. I have never had a ticket - been pulled over twice, but no tickets.

Ok so that is it for me. Now, I am suppose to tag 7 people - one small problem...I don't have 7 friends who blog - so I can only tag 1 - Sandra.

OH YEAH

2007-05-02T22:42:00.000-04:00

Give Him some praise. I finally got my user account/password figured out and I am back in business (Sandra - you better leave me a comment). For all three of you that actually read this - I am glad to be back. I have had some serious issues with getting my user name and password right and finally I got it. GGEEZZ. I don't even know what has been going on since I last posted. I am still getting ready for Thailand and appreciate the support I have received. I am beyond excited and can't believe it is only a month away. Everything is going good with us. Hannah is keeping us busy and making us laugh all the time. She is so full of life and a handful and funny and and and. Until next time (which hopefully won't be in a month) I will leave some pictures of the girl with you.

Easter at my mom's

Hunting eggs

A Long Time

2007-03-22T22:37:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it has been almost a month since my last post. The time sure does fly. We have been busy the past few weeks. My mom had some pretty serious back surgery a couple of weeks ago, but is recovering nicely. She will be out of work for about three months, but seems to be getting relief and hopefully will be back to herself soon. As soon as she is...we're going shopping. Sickness has taken over our family the past couple of weeks too. David first then me this week and now Hannah. That is always nice when everyone shares the love.
I am still getting ready for my trip to Thailand and am getting more excited by the minute. David is also planning to go back to Moldova in July and he is very excited about that too. I am sure we will have plenty of updates over the next couple of months.
I will post some updated pictures of Hannah in the next couple of days.

Until then...

Church

2007-02-25T21:45:00.000-05:00

Please allow me to share some things that have been on my heart lately. In our Sunday School Class we have been talking about the importance of Church and if we have to attend church in order to be in obedience. I have had so many thoughts about this, but for whatever reason have not be able to share them in my class. (For those that know me...this is not typical me). However, I need to get it out.
I don't know all the correct answers, but I know how I feel about church and for me that is what I have to go with. Church may not be for everyone and I can appreciate that. If it is not then I feel like you have to find a place and a group of people to truly worship with, pray with and hold each other accountable. With that being said, I do feel like church is the place for me and I have been so convicted lately that I am not giving all of myself in those times nor I am allowing God to bless me when I am there. I think David and I go a amazing church and there has never been a Sunday when I didn't feel like I had been to church and I didn't leave with a feeling of action. However, I also feel like if I truly understood what God had done for me and how much he loves and protects me and my family, I would give so much more of myself in worship. Why do we hold ourselves back? Why don't I allow myself to go at place with God of true worship and thanksgiving? We can all look back and not only see how God has worked in the lives of those we know, but how he has worked in our lives. I feel like church is a time for believers to get a chance to be charged up. We live in a world full of sin. We work in it, drive in it, shop in it, watch it and church should be the one place we can let our guard down and worship. I'll be honest, for a long time in my life church was a social outlet for me. All my friends were there and we had a good time together. Now, it is so much more than that. I need that two hours to be in the word and worship. Now that we have Hannah, I feel it is even more important. When she comes home like she did Sunday to tell us she learned not to be afraid because Jesus would take care of us - that is what it is about. Her learning this at a early age. I wish she didn't ever have to face the real world, but we do. Don't get me wrong, I don't think those two hours a week is all God requires and I think we get sucked into that too. We can go every Sunday and never pick up the Bible any other time - that's not what it is about either.
I don't know what I am trying to say other than I think we don't allow ourselves to go to a place of true worship because we are afraid of what others will think or we have not been raised that way. I just don't want to be like that anymore. That's all.
Thanks for allowing me this time to get it out. Blessings.

The Great Adventure

2007-02-08T22:55:00.000-05:00

On the way home tonight I heard a song that took me back to Youth Group at Radnor Baptist Church. The song..."The Great Adventure" by Steven Curtis Chapman. I first heard this song at Centrifuge (a weeklong Baptist church camp that totally rocked my world). But the song makes me think of so many more things than just that. I guess more than anything it makes me so thankful for the times I had a church. It was never a question in my house whether we were going to church on Sunday mornings - we just went. And being southern baptist we went Sunday morning, Sunday night and Wednesday night (even for Wednesday night supper). The great thing was...I never wanted to be anywhere else. The majority of my friends were there and we had a good time. During the summer that is where we ended up. Just hanging out. Now, don't get me wrong, we had drama - some serious drama actually, but I wouldn't change a moment of those times. Times like not being able to wait to be old enough to get to go to Sunday School in the "youth house". I think I was in there for one year and then it was condemed. It was really cool to me though. Hosting the youth rally and really feeling the Holy Spirit move for the first time in my life. Having lock ins and then sleeping all day on Saturday. Going to the wave pool for church night. Going on visitation - honestly, what is that???? I just loved it. So driving home tonight for a moment I was back there. To that time in my life where I didn't want to be anywhere else and I didn't know anything else than that. Was I sheltered - no just lucky!! By the way - my first concert was Steven Curtis Chapman and we were on the front row!!!! Back then I just loved singing to the top of my lungs "Saddle up your horses, we've got a trail to blaze." Tonight as I was singing at the top of my lungs, it was so much more... "Let's follow our Leader into the Glorious unknown - this is a life like no other....THIS is the Great Adventure."

A Wonderful Job

2007-02-05T21:51:00.000-05:00

On the way home tonight there was a very pretty sunset (not exactly the one in the picture above, but you get the idea). I wanted to share the conversation between me and Hannah on the ride home. It went like this:

Hannah: Look at the pretty colors.
Mom: Do you know who painted this picture for us?
Hannah: Who?
Mom: God. He painted this picture for us to see tonight.
Hannah: Did he have a big ladder to get up there and paint that?
Mom: No, he painted it from Heaven - where he lives.
Hannah: Oh. Well, he did a wonderful job.
Hannah: I love him - he did a wonderful job.

Oh, how my prayer is this is just the beginning of her falling in love with Him and this is just a taste of the conversations to come. I hope I am never too busy to teach her the most important stuff.

SLACKER

2007-02-04T03:44:00.000-05:00

OK. I know it has been a long time since my last post. Honestly, not a lot has been going on in our household over the past month. We rang in the new year at home - my favorite way and I think we were in bed before midnight. I had a seminar to do the middle of January and that kept me busy for a couple of weeks. I do have some exciting news. I am going to Thailand with my church in June. Our church is hosting a conference for missionaries and we will be there for a week. I am very excited. It is not what you typically think of as a mission trip. We are going to be staying in a VERY NICE lodge and there are 100 people going. My forever friend Sandra is going so that will make it even better. I am on the hospitality team and honestly I am by far the youngest person on this team. I am already praying God will give me patience with these ladies.
We finally got some snow yesterday and Hannah was beyond thrilled. I would post some pictures however, we can't find our digital camera and I had to take pictures with our old camera and who knows how long it will take to get those developed. If I go with the track record, it will be next year. I will work on getting those in the near future. The sad part - the roll already had pictures on there and it is no telling what the pictures are from. It will be a nice surprise. Have a wonderful rest of the weekend and be on the lookout for those snow pictures :).

What a Christmas!

2006-12-26T18:23:00.000-05:00

We started our celebrating on Friday with a Christmas lunch at my work and then the arrival of aunt Lin and uncle Al from Lexington and David's parents from Oklahoma. Saturday we went to my mom and Bill's for Christmas with Brad, Katrina and Dylan and of course Hannah was in rare form. She got far more than any one child should ever get, but she loved every minute of it.

Sunday we went to church and then had Christmas with David's parents and then my aunt and uncle came over and we had Christmas with them. Again, more presents for Hannah to open. I think she could get use to this...

Of course Christmas morning proved successful as Frosty was very good and Hannah was very pleased with what he brought to her house. I think Frosty will continue to be the present deliver of choice...he hasn't let her down yet.

We ended the festivities with a brunch with my family and then looking at Christmas lights with David's parents. All travelers are back home safe and it's back to work for me tomorrow. It was a wonderful Christmas for us and we hope everyone else had a good Christmas too.

Thanksgiving

2006-11-25T01:20:00.000-05:00

Although I am thankful a lot, it is this time of year I guess we really reflect on all we have been blessed with. I love Thanksgiving and spending time with my family. Although we don't have a large family or any set tradition, just getting together and eating is so great. I remember the first year David and I got married and we went to Oklahoma for Thanksgiving. I acted like a huge baby. I missed my mom and my aunt so much that I basically cried the entire time we were gone. Although David and his family celebrate Thanksgiving the same way I always have, there is something about being with those you love more than life itself and have loved you unconditionally your WHOLE life. Although there are so many that are not with us anymore and we miss them, I love this time of year. So here is to Thanksgiving - food and family. For us as Christians though, I think it extends so much farther. Don't we have SO much to be thankful for???
Father: Thank you for my family. The family that I love so much and has been such a constant in my life. The heritage that has been passed down and will continue to be passed down hopefully for generations to come. I thank you for the comfort of knowing I have people praying for me daily. Thank you for wonderful friends who have seen me in good and bad and love me anyway. Thank you for a precious little girl you brought into my life three years ago. I can't imagine life without her. Thank you for her personality and the way she brings smiles to people - even those that don't know her. Thank you for blessing me far more than I deserve. Amen.
Happy Thanksgiving!!

Back in Time

2006-11-04T20:35:00.000-05:00

It's amazing what you find when you move and start cleaning out drawers, etc. I just took 4 rolls of film to Walgreens that I found when we moved. One of them was a disposible camera we had left at Hannah's daycare when she was in the Toddler room. This would have been between her 1st and 2nd birthday. It's hard to believe she was this little only a year and a half ago. It makes me smile to see what a good time she has at "school" with all her friends. Enjoy.

Sickness and School Pictures

2006-11-03T13:59:00.000-05:00

A call from daycare, a fever and a trip to the doctor...Hannah has an upper respiratory infection and tonsillitis. So, we are home today. However like any child who gets a little medicine in them, today she is wired and has not stopped. But going home with a fever from daycare means no daycare the next day. By Monday we should be good to go. You gotta love this time of year. Below is Hannah's daycare picture. She did so good. She was so proud of herself and keeps looking at the pictures saying "these are so cute."

Happy Halloween

2006-10-31T21:50:00.000-05:00

Tinkerbell has gotten lots of candy and has had a big Halloween. David and I had a Sunday School party on Saturday and all the kids dressed up and played games. And of course got lots of candy. Tonight we went around our neighborhood. Beside the scary site next door and the big dog that ran out of the house, Hannah had a good time. She wanted to get more candy. Nana and Papa came over to enjoy the festivities with us. It was a big day. Hopefully Tinkerbell won't be up all night on a sugar high, but the jury is still out on this one. More pictures to come (I'm having trouble uploading them).

Marriage

2006-10-29T22:53:00.000-05:00

So Hannah has decided she is getting married. She puts on her cinderella dress and her purple high heal shoes. She has her cinderella wand in her hand (this is her flowers) and then she announces that she is getting married. The lucky groom...Dylan (her cousin). Too cute.

2006-10-27T22:44:00.000-04:00

I honestly don't know where the time goes. I feel like I just posted something and it has already been a month. Nothing much has been happening around our house the past month, but I guess life just gets in the way sometimes. Hannah is doing good. She had a little trouble with her asthma a couple of weeks ago, but seems to be doing good now. She has decided to be Tinkerbell for Halloween and trust me...this was not an easy decision. She said for the longest time she wanted to be Ariel. I went to Target and got a mermaid costume (they don't have "real" ariel costumes in her size). I didn't show it to her because she would probably never take it off. The next day she decided she was going to be Snow White and I decided she was going with me to pick out the costume. After a trip to Party City and changing her mind (only once though) we came home the proud owners of a Tinkerbell costume, crown and slippers. It is cute and she thinks she is something in that outfit. Pictures to come.
I am so happy for the weekend. I am going tomorrow to my friend Sandra's for a good time of scrapbooking and then we have a Sunday School social tomorrow afternoon. I am sure the day will end with a good cheering for the Volunteers and then church on Sunday. We hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.

Wink at Me and All My Faces

2006-10-05T11:29:00.000-04:00

We finally have high speed internet and I am so happy!!! The nice cable man just left and I couldn't wait to get on the internet. It is so fast. I may never leave. I love it. I have posted some pictures of Hannah - now that I can do this at home it will be so much easier. Hannah is trying to get the winking thing down and it so cute to watch her try. She holds a hand over one eye and then blinks with the other. That is how she winks. She also loves to show you her "faces". Enjoy. I am off work for the next two days - just because. It is so nice.

Wink

Happy Face

Mad Face

Sad Face

Excited Face

I'm Back!

2006-09-15T10:35:00.000-04:00

Things have been crazy around the Millsap house the past couple of months. Hannah turned three while we were staying at my parents because we sold our house and couldn't move into our new one. We moved into our new house on July 31st. David's parents came for a visit and then David was busy with getting ready for the school year and then I was busy with a seminar at work. WHEW! Finally we are settling down. We also have moved into the 21st century and have gotten a digital camera. So that means I should be able to post pictures a lot easier than before. Given the fact that when we moved I found film from like two years ago.
Last night we went to Disney Princess's On Ice. Can I just tell you that Hannah loved every minute of it except she was always wanting the next princess to come out. If Belle was dancing she was wondering where Sleeping Beauty was. Then when Sleeping Beauty came out she wanted to know where Cinderella was. She was so cute though. I have posted pictures of the big night. Hannah's favorite princess from last night...Jasmine and Sleeping Booty(that's what she calls her - too funny!!)

Hannah with her $1 million dollar princess wand (just kidding - it only cost $16.00 :)

She was really pumped up and couldn't wait until it started.

TIME!

2006-07-14T09:46:00.000-04:00

I knew the whole time thing would miss me up with blogging!!! A lot has happened in the last two months. Hannah has moved up to the Preschool class at her daycare and as she says it she's a "big gurl" now. She's doing really well and is loving it. David has been on a 10 day mission trip to Moldova and had a wonderful experience.
The big news - we sold our house!!! It was on the market for 16 days and sold. We close next Friday the 21st and then we move into our new house (in Spring Hill) on the 31st. We will be staying with my mom and Bill for those 10 days. I hope they are ready for us!!!
We finally got a digital camera, so I promise more pictures will come now.

A Moment's Peace

2006-05-06T21:37:00.000-04:00

Today my mom and I experienced a morning of total pamper. Bill got us a 1/2 day at the spa and we went this morning. For me it started out with Krispy Kreme doughnuts and let's be honest...it usually doesn't get much better than that. But that was just the beginning. Then I picked up mom and it was off to the spa. I could totally get use to this. We both started with an hour facial...AN HOUR. It was beyond great. So relaxing. Then it was off to get pedicures and manicures oh yeah and did I mention we also got lunch while we were getting our toes done. Total pampering. Why don't we do stuff like this for our self more often. Life gets so busy we just forget to stop and take a break or we just forget to make time to stop and take a break. And what could make the day end perfectly???? Going shopping (with mom) and coming home with a new pair of shoes - a perfect ending to a princess kind of day. So here is to taking time to get pampered but more importantly for me - getting to do it with my mom.

Here's to Forever Friends

2006-03-28T13:26:00.000-04:00

So, I spent some time with my best and favorite friend Ashley on Saturday. Everytime we get together, I leave thinking about the good times we have had together and just being thankful for the type of friendship that can last for 12 years and you know will last for many more years. We don't have to talk everyday (sometimes not even every week or month), but I know if I need her she is there and the next time we talk it will be like we never skipped a beat. I love thinking back to times we have shared. Like at the end of my Sophomore year when the buzz through the hall was about the "new girl" coming from Overton for our Junior year. Or the time when we almost died during a tornado because we didn't know what a culvert was. Or the many times we talked our moms into letting us spend the night on a "school night" all in the name of studying and then somehow we forgot about the study part. Or before our senior prom when I got the worst hair-do ever and I called Ashley to come to my house right then to look at it. I don't know what she was going to do, but I needed her and she came. Or the day I got a letter from Western Kentucky (where we were determined to go to college) saying I didn't get in. I thought the world as I knew it was over, but in true Ashley fashion she said "Rachel don't worry about it - we will so something else".
So, here is to forever friendship and being so thankful for you Ashley. I love you!!!

Let it Snow...Nashville Style

2006-03-24T17:57:00.000-04:00

Remember when we were suppose to get 4-5 inches of snow in Nashville a few weeks ago??? Well, here is Hannah in all the snow. She was so excited about this "dusting" she would be beside herself if we ever really got snow. She wanted to stand in it and have her picture taken before she went to school that day. So, until next year - this is all she is going to get.

Finally!!

2006-03-23T14:30:00.000-04:00

So, I have finally determined that the issues with posting a pictures was my computer at home. This was a test to see if I could do it from work and lo and behold...I can. This was one of the only pictures I had of Hannah on my computer at work. Ashley - you probably recognize the background and the bed she is standing on :). So, now that I know where the issue is - I will post more pictures. Yippee!!

UUGGHH!!

2006-03-09T23:08:00.000-04:00

I can not for the life of me get a picture on this thing. I will work on it this weekend...it is my bedtime. Stay tuned.

By Faith Noah...

2006-03-01T23:40:00.000-04:00

Please let me just share something I learned this past week. I am in a bible study on Tuesday nights with six amazing ladies. We are currently doing the study "Believing God" by Beth Moore (who I love). Anyway this past week we were studing I can do all things through Christ. The week was centered around Hebrews 11 (The Hall of Faith). One day we talked about Noah. I have studied and learned about Noah and the Ark my entire life (literally), but this week I learned something I had never been taught before and I just need to share it. Do you realize that EVERYONE on the earth was destroyed for their wickedness except Noah and his immediate family. Do you know what that means...that means that no one else on the entire earth believed in the God Noah believed in. The amazing part - Noah still stood strong in his belief and when God told him to build this ark he did it. Noah didn't have a bible study group or a sunday school class or a church of many fellow believers to talk this out with or to get their insight. He just had his immediate family (which let's be honest probably at times even they thought Noah was crazy for the whole ark thing). Does that amaze anyone else but me???? How thankful his family must have been when they were walking on that ark and when that rain (that they had never seen before) started to fall. By faith Noah believed!!! That makes the times when I may be ashamed or embarrased to share my beliefs or stand up for a God who has blessed me far more than I deserve disappointing. I have a army of believers around me and I still let those few hold me back. Noah didn't have an army - just God and that was enough for him to build an ark.

All the time in the world...

2006-02-27T22:08:00.000-04:00

The time to actually do this will come from I don't know where, but I thought it would be something cool to try. So, welcome to the Millsap Family Blog.