As I Learn Paleo....

Breakfast Idea - Scrambled Eggs

2012-01-30T03:00:00.000-08:00

I have always struggled with eating breakfast. I get busy and forget to eat. Which, is NOT good. I am realizing how important it is to eat a good, healthy breakfast!

I enjoy scrambled eggs....and wanting to get more veggies throughout the day, I started adding them to my eggs in the morning!

*This is basically an omlet..just scrambled instead. Quicker! And tastes the same if you ask me. :)

This recipe is very simple and quick (and yummy!!)

Ingredients:

Eggs
Whatever veggies you want!!
Salsa

Below, I used cooked spinach, tomatoes, turkey, and black olives.

Top it off with salsa - and it's so good!!

Enjoy!

Amy

Sweet Potato Wedges

2012-01-27T03:00:00.000-08:00

Let's make this simple...

Resource: http://paleodietlifestyle.com/

Recipe: http://paleodietlifestyle.com/sweet-potato-fries/

Changes that I made: I just cut them into wedges instead of fries. :)

Result? YUMMY!!!

Enjoy!

Amy

Where Do I Shop?

2012-01-24T03:00:00.000-08:00

I have had a couple of people ask me where I shop and how expensive it is....so I am going to do the best I can to answer those questions.

Since we are just starting out, I am still learning.

Paleo recommends (but does not require) grass fed protein sources. There is a farm close by and also a farmers market about an hour away that we are going to visit to explore their prices.

But as of now, I just buy lean meats and vegetarian (plus omega 3) eggs from Kroger. I do all of my shopping at Kroger because they have a fantastic Natural Market. Lots of options for organic. They could improve on their produce, but hopefully we'll be getting our produce from other places soon enough.

As far as the expense, when I buy products that are exclusively gluten free, yes..they are a lot more expensive.

For example,

I can buy a gluten and dairy free burrito for $3.50 at Kroger.

OR

I can buy corn tortillas*, refried beans*, and black beans* for about $5.00. I can get about 10 burritos for Evie out of this.

*this would be a sample meal for Evie....these items are NOT paleo friendly.

My point it, there are ALWAYS better options than buying the "gluten free" products.

We pick the fruits and vegetables that are on sale that week. We buy melons and cut them up rather than buying them already cut. (hopefully we'll find better prices at the farmers market and can start shopping there instead).

Sorry if this seems disorganized....just typing as I am thinking...(which isn't always smart). Ha.

MOST IMPORTANTLY, when budgeting for food, Michael and I have realized that doctor/medical bills from poor health is more than spending a little extra on groceries each week. We'll live longer and teach Evie the right way to be healthy. Those things are so important. We still budget and want to be wise with our finances, but are willing to cut out in other areas in order to give our bodies the nutrition that it needs.

Enjoy!

Amy

Paleo Orange Chicken

2012-01-21T03:00:00.000-08:00

When I use a recipe that I found on a blog, I am not going to take the time to write everything out...I will just link to the blog I found it on and add a picture of how mine turned out. (Disclaimer: I am more concerned with the taste than the presentation). :)

This is something I tried last night...SO yummy! This will frequent our kitchen!

If you haven't gone to www.health-bent.com, I suggest you do! It's fantastic!

Paleo Orange Chicken is YUMMY!!

Enjoy!

Amy

18 Days Later

2012-01-20T06:10:00.000-08:00

I took some pictures of my hair for my family yesterday (I got it straightened and colored). Comparing this photo with one from New Years Day...I can totally see the difference in my face. It looks slimmer. Just thought I would share for those that have asked me about physical changes. They are gradual, but they are there!

But most importantly, I FEEL so much better. And that was after about a week!

(Pardon my silliness in picture #2). :)

Enjoy!

Amy

New Theme

2012-01-19T07:44:00.000-08:00

Welcome! (Again). If you look through the blog, you'll quickly note that this has been my blog for sometime. Off and on for a few years. I couldn't bear to delete the posts. So - take a gander if you like. :)

Here's our "Paleo" story...

In October, we found out that Evie (13 months at the time) had intolerances and allergies to gluten, egg white, peanut, and bananas. On top of that, our doctor advised that we stay away from dairy. So, needless to say, that day was extremely overwhelming. I didn't even know what gluten was! (Sad, I know).

So off I went, on a journey to learn about my daughters new diet. After talking to many extremely helpful friends and one long trip to the doctors office, I felt much better. And here we are - 3 months later and she is gluten, dairy, egg, and peanut free!

During the process of learning about Evie's allergies, I discovered The Paleo Diet. I decided to take the month of December and research.

As I researched, I read about people who had pains and ailments, and within a month of Paleo, they were much better or even completely gone!

I have PolyCystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and plantar fasciitis and tendinitis in both of my feet. Needless to say, I have been in pain for almost 2 years. It's hard to walk in tennis shoes and almost impossible without shoes. It sucks.

So, beginning January 1, I start living the Paleo lifestyle. The images below sum up what I can eat:

Needless to say, I was very overwhelmed. NO carbs?? NO dairy?? How would I survive? (Sadly enough, these thoughts really crossed my mind).

But now, only 2 weeks and 4 days later, I cannot imagine eating those things again! Within a week, I feel so much better - I have so much energy!

My PCOS has improved! My foot pain is drastically better. I can even walk without shoes now! Even things that I didn't really notice before are improving: my skin is clearing up, I've always had red dots on my arms and those are disappearing. I am amazed at the transformation that I have had in just 2.5 weeks!

As far as exercise goes, I am in the process of learning to swim the right way.

As far as accountability goes, I am telling everyone that I know that I am doing this and all about it! It makes it easier to make the right choices if people are aware that this is what I am doing.

The contents of this blog will include:

recipes that I have tried (and like).
blogs and websites that I have found helpful.
information/articles that have helped.
my journey!

Thanks for reading!

Amy

New Addition - The Details

2010-10-21T20:22:00.001-07:00

(Birth Story - Proceed with Caution...)

5 weeks and 5 days ago I became a mother. Most glorious experience. It really started over a year ago.
In June 2009, I was told that I have Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome and may not be able to have children. Conceiving would only be possible with fertility drugs.

In July 2009, I became pregnant with our first child. Sadly, 7 weeks later, we lost that baby. He or she is being taken care of by Jesus and for that I am thankful.

In December 2009, I went to the doctor and she told me that I did not ovulate and could not be pregnant. I went home and cried. I was devastated. We went to Nashville for New Years and I was experiencing pregnancy symptoms as I had before. I took a pregnancy test and found that I was pregnant.

Right before I became pregnant with this child, Michael and I read a book called Supernatural Childbirth. There were some things that we liked about the book - and a lot of things that we did not like. The basic idea that we took from the book was that we can ask God for anything...and he can say yes or he can say no. And either answer is ok.

So, we began to pray. We prayed for an easy pregnancy and a pain free labor, delivery, and recovery. I know, I know...may sound crazy...but we were in complete understanding that God could say yes or no to this, and we were truly ok with either answer.

My pregnancy was pretty typical. Nausea, aches, pains, etc.. No complications. Just typical. In my 3rd trimester, I began to explore the option of natural childbirth. I read a few books and talked to friends that had experienced it. I was planning on pursuing this option...while remaining open to other alternatives if necessary.

Now comes the birth story.... (again, proceed with caution)....

My due date was September 10...and at 3:45 AM on September 11 my water broke. Luckily, I was going to the bathroom...so no mess. :) I calmly called my doctor and she told me to head on in to the hospital. I woke up Michael (which took a minute because he was sleeping in the guest room due to my LOUD snoring)! We were both amazingly calm and headed into the ER. As soon as I walked in, I told them my name and they had a wheelchair waiting for me. My doctor had called them already.

I got upstairs and changed into my gown. The nurses were coming in and doing their duties....the IV, blood pressure, monitors, etc... One nurse in particular asked me if I planned on getting an epidural. I said no because I thought it could cause side effects for the baby. She explained to me the truth about the epidural and I began to explore that option. Once the pitocin started and I had a few contractions, I decided that I would definitely have an epidural.

I got the epidural around 5:30 AM and slept from then until 1:00 PM. My doctor checked me and I was fully dialated and fully effaced. But, she had not dropped at all. So, I was going to have to push for a couple of hours at the least. If she did not drop at a reasonable rate, I was going to have to have a C-Section...and that is not something I wanted. I would be ok with whatever would be best for Evie, but it would not have been my first choice.

So I pushed....from 1:30 PM until 4:43 PM when Evelyn was born. God gave me the strength to push. I was not tired. It did not hurt. They eventually unhooked the monitor and let me lead the pushing. Occasionally, the nurse would leave the room and it was just me and Michael pushing. It was such a peaceful experience. There was no pain through the entire process.

At 4:43 PM, Evelyn Louise Nelson was born. 7 lbs 14 oz and 20.5 inches long. And she was not breathing. Her little body was blue. They had to call in the respiratory team and preform CPR on my girl. It was the worst moment of my life...the scariest. Michael made his way over to me and we both cried and he prayed for our precious daughter. And she was quickly revived. God saved our baby. After we knew that she was ok, I realized that the doctor could not get my placenta to come out, which was the reason Evelyn's cord was wound so tightly around her neck. Every time I pushed, it made the cord tighter and tighter. If she was not able to get it, I was going to have to have surgery to have it removed. (Again....proceed with caution). She had to place both of her arms inside of me elbow deep to retrieve it. The pain that I would have endured had I not chosen to get an epidural would have been excruciating. She was able to get it and I was able to avoid having surgery - praise God.

God answered our prayers. I had a pain free childbirth and delivery. Some might argue with me saying that I chose to have an epidural and that is the reason it was pain free, but my God is bigger than any small decision that I make. He provided the nurses that I needed to calm my nerves about it. He knew of the small complications that I would have at the end of the delivery and that my focus would be on my daughter that was having her own complications. He knew. And he provided. God is good. All the time.

Evelyn had to be in the NCU for 6 hours - per hospital policy if a respiratory team is used. I missed my girl that day, but was thankful she was being watched closely by trained professionals. She came back to me at 11:00 that evening and the snuggling began. :)

I had a small amount of discomfort at the hospital from the stitches, but other than that...no pain during recovery. I took Motrin for a few days, but nothing stronger. Within a week, I felt 100%. By my 4 week check up, I was completely healed. God answered our prayers.

The past 6 weeks have been great. We have had our days when we are exhausted...and days when we are rested. Days when she cries and days when she is calm all day long. Typical parenting, I suppose.

She is smiling and giggling.

She has been reaching for toys since 4 weeks. I thought it was a coincidence at first, but she has been consistently doing it. She will hit a toy in her bouncer seat and as soon as it stops swinging, she'll hit it again. Or if she cannot reach a toy, she will fuss. As soon as I move it in arms reach, she stops.

She LOVES bath time! She is typically cranky by this point because we keep her awake for a while before...but as soon as the water hits her, she is calm.

She sleeps about 11 hours at night. (Not straight..) We get her up every 3 hours to eat...although she rarely wakes up and typically sleeps through the feedings. Michael and I have consistently been getting about 7 or 8 hours of sleep since Evie's 2nd week home.

She is currently 10 lbs 1 oz and 22 inches. :) Our growing girl.

Below is a picture of her right after birth and a picture of her a couple of days ago. It's amazing how she's changed.

We're thankful for our girl. We love her so much. We can't imagine life without her. :)

I'll try to update often.

Love to you all.

Most Memorable Christmas

2009-12-24T07:18:00.000-08:00

My sister, Lori, posted a blog two years ago asking for our most memorable Christmas. I posted about an event that happened 5 years ago...and that is still my most memorable Christmas...

http://previouslypeachy.blogspot.com/2007/12/my-most-memorable-christmas.html

Enjoy!! And what is yours???

Up All Night

2009-12-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

So...seeing as it was my first year to oversee Thanksgiving Dinner....I was bound to make a few mistakes. One of those being not asking Danny and Megan to get a turkey a few days before Thanksgiving. Dad, Danny, Michael and I went shopping for all of our Thanksgiving groceries on Wednesday. Yes...I know. We also chose a 22 lb Turkey. Again...I know. We got it home and saw that it takes 3-4 days to thaw. Oops. It also said that you could put it in ice water to thaw it out...and change the ice water out every thirty minutes to an hour. So....my lovely sister and I chose to pull an all-nighter. We named our turkey Theo. We had a great time. I haven't had that much fun with my sister in many years. It reminded me of "sister time" we would have in college. We played Wii, we looked at pictures, but mostly we talked. It was grand.

Lori, I love you.

Blanket

2009-12-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

I made Owen this KU blanket...it looks like he likes it! I made it big so that he will be able to use it for a long time. :) Snuggle up, Owie Bowie!!! I love you!

Meeting Owen!

2009-12-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

I can't even express how wonderful it was to meet Owen Peach! He is an angel. It was so neat to see how great Danny and Megan are doing with their little one. I wish I could see him more! But just as long as he knows that his Aunt Amy from Peachtree City will definitely spoil him! :)

Winner!!!

2009-12-04T03:06:00.000-08:00

I entered a contest at http://joannagoddard.blogspot.com/.

Here it is: http://joannagoddard.blogspot.com/2009/12/wednesday-giveaway.html

And I won!! I will be receiving pajamas from http://www.lilleboutique.com/

Oh Happy Day! :)

Finger Knitting

2009-12-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

So, I said I was going to finger knit on the way to Oklahoma, and I did! It turned out great! Have a look see!

Hair

2009-12-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Dear Hair,

Please grow faster. I would like you to look like this. -->

Love,
Amy

Snuggling with my Buddy

2009-11-29T00:00:00.000-08:00

We were able to enjoy a fun day with Mike's sister and her family the weekend before Thanksgiving. I was delighted when Matthew (our 1 1/2 year old nephew) fell asleep on my lap. :) Such a peaceful day.

Delightful Day with Danes

2009-11-25T00:01:00.000-08:00

Our friends, Simon and Kendra, are in the states for a few months on business from Denmark. I am very happy that we are in the middle of Kendra's parents and Florida (where they will be staying for a while). This means that they will have a place to stay as they drive to and from! We've seen them twice and hope to see them many more times. :) They are very dear friends to us and we are very thankful for them.

We took them around Peachtree City on the golf cart. For those that don't know, Peachtree City has around 90 miles of golf cart paths that connect the entire city. There is even parking for golf carts at the local stores!

Come on down and we'll take you for a ride!

Project on the Road

2009-11-18T02:54:00.001-08:00

I saw this fun how-to video on http://www.designspongeonline.com/ and am very excited to work on it on the way to Oklahoma! (The knitting part of the video, obviously). :)

Owen Thomas Peach

2009-11-12T17:28:00.000-08:00

I am the VERY proud aunt of a little baby boy!
Owen was born on Monday, November 9th.
He weighed 8 lbs. 2 oz. and is 20.5 inches long.
The Peach Family is home and doing wonderfully with their new bundle of JOY!

Not Alone

2009-10-09T13:44:00.000-07:00

There is a family from my church that I do not know well. I taught their daughter when she was one. They always came to the door with a smile and with only kind things to say. Just mere observation says that they are a very loving family that loves Jesus very much. Today she commented on my blog sharing that she, too, has lost a baby. I read through some of her posts and came across this:

I am so thankful for our baby. So thankful that the Lord gave him/her to us, if only for a short time. I'm thankful for the nurse who helped me make the decision to hold and look at my tiny little baby bundled up in what looked like a huge receiving blanket. I wish I would've gazed longer and held on tighter. I'm thankful for the pain that brought me closer to my Father and my husband and my Maggie. We've been changed. I'm not sure the pain will go away. I'm not sure I want it to. It is a reminder to me that God is in control. A reminder that what I too often think of as my children, are really never mine in the first place. They're his. We're entrusted with their precious lives for as long as He sees fit. I am reminded today of the weighty task we have to bring Maggie up in the training and instruction of the Lord (Eph. 6:4). Her life, no matter how long it will last is for one purpose only, to glorify the Lord. My life is for that same purpose. So is yours.

Thank you, Julia, for sharing your heart. God has used you to touch the lives of others - and to touch my life today.

Our Precious Baby

2009-09-28T16:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Baby Nelson,

I know that you are with Jesus in Heaven now. We are very sad and miss you very much, but we know that Jesus will take better care of you than we could. We will see you someday and we are very excited to be able to hug you. We love you very much and always will.

Love,

Mommy and Daddy

Watch

2009-06-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

My Two Favorite Dads

2009-06-21T12:37:00.000-07:00

Happy Fathers Day to my wonderful father!!!

And Happy Fathers Day to my brother - who will soon be a dad to a handsome baby boy!

My dad was a beautiful example of a father to us. We are so very blessed to have him. And I'm very pleased that my brother will take from our dad the ability to be a good dad himself.

Thank you, God...for the two dads in my life.

Niece or Nephew!!!

2009-05-06T11:25:00.000-07:00

Dear Danny and Megan,

You will be amazing parents! The amount of love that you already have for your baby is unbelievable. God has blessed you both and will continue to teach you how to care for your child even before birth. I can't wait to see you and your little one interact in just 6 short months!!!

I love you both!

Amy

Dear Baby Peach,

I cannot even begin to explain to you how blessed you are to have your mommy and daddy. You have been prayed for since before you even existed! God is placing you perfectly into a loving home. You will grow up learning about so many neat things! But most importantly, you will learn about Jesus. We will continue to pray for you throughout your life. We are so excited to meet you!!

Love,

Aunt Amy and Uncle Mike

Father in heaven,

I ask that you protect this little family. Keep them safe throughout pregnancy and after. God, I know that you can and will love this child and teach Danny and Megan how to teach their child how to love you too. Thank you so much for this gift in their lives. Guide them throughout this journey. Keep them safe. Give them the strength they will need for sleepless nights and hard times. Help them to look to you always.

Thank you, Jesus.

My Weekend (that went too fast...)

2009-05-03T16:56:00.000-07:00

Friday night - I met Michael at the dollar theater in town.....only the first showing of the afternoon is 50 cents - everyday! We love going to the movies for only $1.00!! We saw Confessions of a Shopaholic. Michael is such a good husband to see the girlie movies with me!! It was cute - nothing spectacular. Then we went to Ruby Tuesday's with our gift card! (Thanks, Pam!!) We had a good (and cheap) date night!

Saturday - I slept in!! 9:00!! Michael got up early to do some work and I just relaxed around the house until about noon. I love the days that I get to sleep in and do nothing! I had a class at the Pregnancy Resource Center at 1:00. I have really enjoyed spending time there. God is at work at that center. It's so neat to see what God will do when we step back and let him work. I went straight from the PRC to the Davenport's house for Josh's graduation party! We know him through YoungLife. Congratulations, Josh!!! That evening, we made dinner at home and rented Bride Wars from the dollar box. (Once again - such a trooper for watching the girlie movies!) That one was funny.

Sunday - Church. Worked in Waumba from 8:30-12:30..then home for my nap. I told my father in law about Nazarene Naps...and he came up with Southside Siesta's. I like this one better!! :) We went to dinner with Mike's parents tonight and patiently waited out the tornado warning in the county. It passed through pretty fast. Now I'm watching Grey's Anatomy.

All in all - a good weekend. :)

Love This Man

2009-04-30T15:35:00.000-07:00

Hem

2009-04-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

I would just like to give a little shout out to the best group on earth.

I have spring fever.

2009-04-18T12:48:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting for this part of the year for so long! I saw too much snow, too much ice, and experienced too much cold this past winter. Have I mentioned that I am not a fan of the cold? I'm so excited to hear the sounds of kids playing in their yards and to see all of the golf carts out and about! SPRING IS HERE!

Prayer Changes Me

2009-03-28T13:20:00.000-07:00

We've been married for 583 days. I can't believe it. It's gone so by so fast. I am so thankful for Michael. I prayed and prayed for someone that would love me like he does. It's so refreshing to know that even in hard times, Michael relies on God to provide for us.

I've been doing a women's bible study on the book of Ruth. The main thread of the book of Ruth is God's providential hand. I've learned a lot about prayer. Prayer sometimes moves the hand of God and sometimes changes the heart of the person praying. Since Michael got laid off, he has been making sure to lead our family in prayer thanking God for all he has done and asking for protection of our little family. All the while, Michael has been working extremely hard to find a job. Just as God sent Boaz to answer his own prayer in the book of Ruth.....I believe that God has called Michael to work hard to answer our prayers for a job. I am thankful to God for answering my prayers for a Godly husband. I am thankful to God for providing for our family. All we have is God's and it's up to Him what he wants us to have.

Lately

2009-02-28T10:29:00.000-08:00

Hello friends! It's been so long! :) I have been SO busy!!! So - here is a list of things I have been doing since Christmas:

Teaching 2nd grade after school.
Read the entire Twilight series. Ha.
Volunteering at Pregnancy Resource Center of Fayette County.
Started a women's bible study. (Currently studying Ruth).
Sang Karaoke numerous times.
Lost 15 lbs.
Gained it all back.
Celebrated my 18 month wedding anniversary.
Celebrated the best Valentine's Day with my perfect husband.
Learned a ton about marriage though sermons and the bible.
Made amazing friends in Peachtree City.
Planned a trip to Nashville to see NKOTB with Katie!
Decided to stay at the school I am currently at thanks to the economy.
Decided to get my master's degree in K-6 Reading and Math.
Decided to pursue being a college professor of education.
Planned what we want our nursery to look like when we have kids someday. :)
Put a photography studio in our bonus room.
Started counting down until the last day of school. (Currently at 54 days).
Planned a trip to Disney World in April!! (Very Excited!)
Loved Jesus.
Trusted Jesus.
Read more of the bible.
Decided to work with YoungLife in my county.

Ok - I'm sure there is more.....it's been 2 months since I have written! But - that's all I can think of for now. :)

Merry Christmas!!!

2008-12-24T07:32:00.000-08:00

http://www.ninthhourphotography.com/2009christmas_card.pdf

Terrific Tuesday!

2008-11-25T17:17:00.000-08:00

Tonight I worked out....harder than I have in a long time. I know I'll be hurting tomorrow.

I got to the gym at 3:45 and ran/walked a 5K (3.14 miles). "A 5K a Day" is what I am striving for....not really everyday, but every time I go to the gym (which should be 5 days a week).

Then I did the circuit (similar to curves) 4 times.

Then I biked for a couple of miles waiting for the class to begin.

Finally, I attended the hour long BOOTY BOOTCAMP class. Oh man - it hurt. If I don't have buns of steel by the end of this year long contract at the gym, then something is wrong.

:) So - I feel great.

Exercise

2008-11-10T16:28:00.000-08:00

Ran 2.5 miles today! :)

Good Weekend Ahead!

2008-11-07T12:08:00.000-08:00

I'm really looking forward to this weekend. Here is what I am doing:

Date night (dinner and movie) with my amazing husband.

5K at 8:00 am tomorrow morning.

Weight Watchers at 11:00 (hopefully I lost weight again!) :)

Shopping with Kim and Mallory! Fun times!

Spending the evening at home with Mike!

Church Sunday morning.

Running in the afternoon with some of the small group ladies.

Relaxing Sunday evening.

Wouldn't you be looking forward to the weekend??? :)

Sigh...

2008-11-04T17:40:00.000-08:00

Maybe a new look will inspire me....

I frequently sit down to blog and have NOTHING to blog about.

I find that having 2 blogs overwhelming....so I am deleting my weight loss one and I will start updating health and exercise things here.

I have been a vegetarian for a little over 2 weeks now. Just trying something new, I guess. Along with that and running frequently, I am losing weight pretty quickly. It's a nice feeling to know that my hard work is finally starting to pay off.

Time to go put clothes away.....

Sermon worth watching...

2008-10-05T11:04:00.000-07:00

http://www.northpointministries.org/player/player_large.jsp?occurrenceID=2197

I'm A Regular!!!

2008-09-19T17:53:00.000-07:00

:) Ok - I was going to Subway today on the way home from work to pick up my dinner. I always go in and get a veggie sub and apples. As soon as I went to order, the guy looked at me and said, "I'm guessing you want your usual veggie sub." I got so excited. He probably thought I was crazy. Living in 3 big cities...I have never been a regular ANYWHERE!!! And now...finally...in our small town....people know who I am! :) So I informed him.....I'm always going to come in and say " the usual please." :)

And - I ran a long way without stopping tonight. I won't say how long because most of you probably would laugh at me...but it was my LONGEST EVER!!! Yahoo!!! And I didn't hate it - I actually enjoyed it!!! Maybe I can be a runner after all.

:)

One Year Ago Today...

2008-08-18T16:06:00.000-07:00

I was getting married!!! Exactly one year ago we were enjoying the reception!!! Hard to believe...it's gone so fast. But we've done so much! I couldn't be happier with anyone else than I am with Michael. He is perfect for me. We compliment each other so well. Happiness.

For our anniversary celebrations (which started 2 weeks ago), we stayed the night at a hotel in Atlanta. (Since we are an hour from there now, it seemed like a real vacation)! We went to the High Museum of Art and to the Botanical Gardens. We had a great time. We ordered room service twice and just enjoyed resting and not having to worry about anything.

This past Saturday, we went to White Water in Atlanta. It is a pretty big water park. We had a blast. If you want to know specifics, check out my previous post.

Tonight we went to dinner and came back and had a piece of wedding cake! (Not from last year -that's not my style...) :) I picked up a small cake from the place we got our cake last year so that we could enjoy a piece together. Last year we didn't get to eat any except for what we cut for the pictures. It's been a nice night.

Here are a couple of fun pictures from our weekend at the hotel.

I fell 9 stories.

2008-08-17T05:07:00.000-07:00

Click here to see a picture.

I didn't think it would be that big of a deal. Oh crap - it was. For most of the "ride" I was not even touching the slide - so I really was just in mid air...falling....

At the beginning, I had to sit down at the edge and wait for the lifeguard to say it was ok to go. I could not see the slide in front of me - that's how steep it was. I laid down, crossed my legs, and crossed my arms. I really thought I was going....I was terrified. All of a sudden, I felt Mike's hand on my head - pushing me down. So, what I thought was the ride, really wasn't. I wore shorts over my swim suit and that didn't matter. When I got off, an older man said, "Yep - it's a wedgie ride." How embarrassing.

Oh well, it was fun. I'll post more about it tomorrow...(it was part of our anniversary present to each other)...and since TOMORROW is our 1 year anniversary, I'll post about all of it then.

Parent Night

2008-08-09T11:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had what we called "Sneak Peek" at our school. The parents had from 4:00-6:00 to come and meet their child's teacher. Normally I see about one or two parents. Last night, I saw 13 off my parents!!! That is GREAT!!! I have 18 students this year (well as of now, I do). I am more excited about this year than I ever have been. My first year, it was all fear....and the fear has lessened a little bit each year and the excitement has grown. This year, the fear is gone. My goal has always been for 100% of my kids to be reading at the end of the year. It has never happened - but of course, it is my goal again this year. We'll see! :) So, beginning at 7:30 on Monday morning, my school year will have started. 180 days until my 4th year of teaching has passed me by.
And at that very moment, there will be 18 more children that are able to read. What a joy.

The First Day

2008-08-03T15:35:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I have posted...really posted. So, here I go.

This summer was the first one in years that I didn't work. I traveled a lot (Kansas City in June...Tennessee twice in June....South Carolina in June....Tennessee in July). That was fun. It was nice to be able to visit family and friends. :) Mike's mom and I walked a few times in the mornings. That was nice. It's nice to have some family close. I don't know what I would do without any family close by. But it ended...I knew it would. School just came so fast!

I start school tomorrow. Teachers this week - kids next week...and for 180 school days to come.
I am looking forward to this year. This begins my fourth year of teaching and I have felt more comfortable and more confident each year. I hope this year continues the pattern! :)

I've realized that my very favorite part of teaching is when I have a student that comes into my class in August not recognizing any letters (or very few) and leaves reading. It really makes me feel like I have actually made a difference in the lives of the children.

We will be with family for Christmas this year - and we are going to Disneyworld with Mike's family for Spring Break. We are hoping to be able to go visit Kendra and Simon over the summer (in Europe). Having all of these things to look forward to will make the school year go faster.

On another note - our one year anniversary is 2 weeks from tomorrow. I cannot believe it's been a year already! It's gone so fast!!! I've heard that the first year of marriage is the hardest....well it was wonderful for us! I am excited to think that it's only going to get better from here! God has blessed me with a man that desires to take care of me. I feel so lucky to have him.

Well, that's all for now...I have a few things to do tonight before going to bed....at 9:00. Yes - my school year bedtime. Sigh, it's here.

My new HAIR CUT!

2008-07-22T13:16:00.000-07:00

New Pictures!!

2008-07-02T12:53:00.000-07:00

Go here - for all of our new June pictures - plus updated house pictures!!!

http://picasaweb.google.com/aepeach

Enjoy!!!

Finally...an update

2008-06-30T06:34:00.000-07:00

Not here.

Here -------> http://mwlg.blogspot.com/

Vacation and home pictures coming soon!

He has saved me.

2008-06-15T19:15:00.000-07:00

Our family had a reunion this weekend and this morning we had a church service at the park. My daddy talked about how we are continuously being saved. When I got home, I had an email from someone at church with this video in it....

Thank you, Jesus...for continuously saving me.

Speaking of Being Thankful....

2008-06-04T05:17:00.000-07:00

Katie's baby shower for Mia was a few weeks ago. She will be having Mia in just a few short weeks! Yeah! Katie and I have been friends for a few years now and she has brought so much joy into my life. Katie knows what it's like to be a true friend and I appreciate her greatly.

I was chosen to play photographer at her lovely baby shower since my hubby wasn't able to go. Here are those photos -

Enjoy!

Thankful

2008-05-30T12:26:00.000-07:00

Every time I start thinking about how thankful I am for something, I always think, "Ok - let me store that one away....I'll have to have something to share at Thanksgiving." But today I feel extra thankful...so I am going to share.

I have an amazing husband....

I could write for hours about how much Michael means to me and how much he has added to my life over the past 2 years. I'm going to simply describe how I feel in a few words. Michael loves me. Plain and simple. He tells me. He shows me. He needs me. I need him. We just work. We are perfect for each other. God has blessed us by giving us to each other.

We have amazing family....

We are both so blessed to have been raised loving Jesus. Our parents and siblings have been examples to us of how to love Jesus and how to live for him. Thank you, families....I love you very much. With one family close by and one far away, both encourage and support us in all we do.

We have amazing friends....

We chose to have a large wedding party for a very specific reason. We each have been blessed with a tremendous support system of friends. We are thankful for each and every one of them! Look at this bunch!!! :)

Today I am thankful.

Zoo Day!!

2008-05-26T18:45:00.000-07:00

About a month ago, we took the kids to the zoo! We had a great time! Have a look....

Zzzzz

2008-05-12T07:39:00.000-07:00

I am exhausted.

Moving is hard work.

9 more days of school.

8 if it counts that I am using a personal day this Friday.

Summer is approaching.

Amy + the pool = the greatest summer ever.

Our New HOME!!!

2008-04-25T11:17:00.000-07:00

Hey!! We have a house in Peachtree City! Check it out!!! You can click on the slide show to make the pics bigger if needed. YEAH!!!!!

Photo Website

2008-04-23T07:08:00.000-07:00

I have a new photo gallery..

http://picasaweb.google.com/aepeach

There is a link on the sidebar. Check for updates! :)

Amy

Simon came to AMERICA (a while ago...)

2008-04-21T08:54:00.000-07:00

I"m learning new ways to post pictures without taking up so much space. Enjoy!!! (Especially you, Kendra! :)

Precious. I love this.

2008-04-20T08:18:00.000-07:00

Ok - I just learned how to post videos....so you will see them frequently! :) Enjoy!

A Proud Aunt. :)

2008-04-14T08:35:00.000-07:00

The day before Easter, we drove to Michael's sister's house to celebrate Easter. Laura had just turned 3 and Matthew was just a week old. Man, I loved this day. In just 2 years, I went from having no nieces and nephews to having one of each! Laura is so smart and Matthew is growing more and more each day. I feel so blessed. I have a wonderful family of my own and I married into a wonderful family!!! Does life get any better than this?

Fingers On The Words!

2008-03-24T06:42:00.000-07:00

We're reading now - well, 95% of the class is reading. And those that aren't, are close. My biggest thing right now is for them to keep their fingers on the word while they read. Even my one that cannot read at all can keep his fingers on the words as I read. :) Yay for them.

My first two sewing projects!!!

2008-03-21T04:34:00.000-07:00

My sister in law just had a baby and my best friend is having a baby in July. So...I decided on blankets. The first one is for Matthew and the second one is for Mia. :) I was pretty proud because they were my first sewing projects ever! I need to learn to make clothes now. I have patterns, but I have to just spend some time cutting them out and figuring them out. :)
Enjoy!

Picture Time Part 2

2008-03-19T04:37:00.000-07:00

Seaton Weekend - While I went to a bridal shower, Mike went with them to Chic-Fil-A and took lots of fun pictures. That night, we went to dinner and the girls went to a Carrie Underwood concert! Fun times!!! :)

Picture Time Part 1

2008-03-18T04:22:00.000-07:00

In the elevator on the way to see Matthew!!!

Kathryn and Matthew

Amy and Laura

Amy and Bev

Precious Laura

Amy and Matthew!

Baby Matthew

Amy and Matthew

Big Weekend!!!

2008-03-17T04:51:00.000-07:00

I had a big weekend!!! First, we went to Nashville for a wedding shower. I got to see friends I hadn't seen in 4 years!!! Then we got to hang out with The Seatons! Fun times!! Saturday night I went with the Shinn/Seaton girls to the Grand Old Opry to see Carrie Underwood, Vince Gill, Randy Travis, and more! Fun times!!! FINALLY - Michael's sister had a baby! Matthew Gardner!!!! WE LOVE HIM!!!! We went to the hospital on Sunday to hold him. YAY!!!!

Pictures will be up soon!!! Are you surprised?? :)

Photo Shoot - Laura

2008-03-14T04:30:00.000-07:00

Our niece, Laura turned three a few weeks ago. We went up to their house last weekend and were able to spend a nice afternoon with their family. Michael took pictures of Laura and some family shots. Kathryn is due in April and we are so excited to meet baby Matthew! :)
Enjoy!

Lunch Time!

2008-03-07T06:40:00.000-08:00

This is what I have for lunch everyday. Every single day. I haven't gotten tired of it yet - we'll see how long it lasts.

Tagged!

2008-03-03T08:34:00.000-08:00

I was tagged by Lori Felder! I am supposed to list 8 random things about myself that you may not know. I am going to show how opposite my sister and i are. :) Here it goes:

I was named Teacher of the Year this year at my school.
I have dyed my hair every color...except the crazy ones. Blond, Brown, Red, and even Black.
I have never ever ever been athletic, but I have always longed to be. Maybe one day.
One of my high and lofty goals in college was to have my picture in the Treveccan (the Trevecca Magazine). FINALLY (after 6 long years), it was in the issue talking about our graduation. FINALLY!
I have seen every episode of LOST.
I started out in college as an Education major, hated it, and then moved to religion, got saved, and went back to Education. :)
In 10th grade, I had to give a speech on how to make chocolate chip cookies and I passed out.
when i was in school and the teacher would pass back tests i would always hide my paper assuming I would have the worst score and I was embarrassed. I normally didn't do too bad, but I was always self conscious.

OK...here's the rules:-

List 8 random things about yourself that people may not know.

- Link the person who sent this to you, and leave a comment on their blog so that their readers can visit yours.

- Post the rules on your blog.

- Tag random people at the end of your post, linking their blog. Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

I am tagging, Amy M., Michelle S., Brook G., and Marcia L.

I don't know how you all feel about being tagged...so feel free to not do it. It ain't no thang.

Times Tables

2008-02-29T06:37:00.000-08:00

I taught 4th grade one afternoon a few weeks ago. They were fun, but OH the attitudes!!! It made me appreciate my 1st graders all the more. :) They showed me this new game. What you can't experience through this photo is the noise and yelling of the correct answer behind them. We eventually had to stop the game because it led to name calling. Boo.

Chattanooga Aquarium with the Seatons

2008-02-25T13:31:00.000-08:00

For Bella's birthday, we met the Seatons in Chattanooga for a trip to the aquarium. We had a blast!!! I can't believe Bella is 2 already!! And another on the way! What excitement! :)

Ticket To Read

2008-02-22T02:41:00.000-08:00

There is a reading game on the internet that is sponsored through our reading curriculum that the kids LOVE. It is called Ticket to Read. Over half of my class goes home each day and continues it there. As you can see, this little girl is very into her game. :) It's times like this that I love teaching.

Christmas/Winter Pictures (Long OVERDUE) :)

2008-02-20T02:40:00.000-08:00

Below are several pictures of various things we did in the winter. :) Fun times, eh??

Michael's parents have parking lot duty at church. Aren't they cute? I love them! :)

Embarrassingly enough, before we were married, I practiced signing our names to cards. Yes, I am that girl. Well, here was my first time actually getting to do it! :)

For one of our date nights (actually date day), we went to the Sundial for lunch. The Sundial is the spinning restaurant in the Westin Hotel in downtown Atlanta. We had a blast - though I did get a little dizzy. Then we walked around downtown and went to the Centennial Park.

I am a freaking 4 year old on Christmas Day. I always have been. I love it. :) We decided to make this a big Christmas since it was our first. I am even wearing my new Christmas morning outfit. I got the robe from Mike's mom for the wedding.

Don't they look JUST ALIKE?? :)

Umm...we love being married. Haha.

Not looking so hot... definitely tired. :)

Sew Excited!!!

2008-02-18T16:46:00.000-08:00

My sister, Lori, got a sewing machine. My friend, Lauren, has a sewing machine. I've become intrigued...and so I got a sewing machine. I had my first lesson today. It was a blast! :) There will definitely be more posts to come of various projects!!! :) Yahoo!!! A new hobby!

Valentine's Day/6 Month Anniversary Weekend

2008-02-17T06:27:00.000-08:00

Let me just say that I have the best husband in the world. Valentine's Day started for me on Tuesday morning. I went to the car to go to work and there was a card in there for me....the same on Wednesday...the same on Thursday....and the same on Friday. He included gift cards to my favorite stores in the cards. On Thursday, he had flowers delivered to school. :) Beautiful!!! We went to Agatha's on Friday night - a dinner theater/murder mystery. It was a blast! I even had a speaking part. Ha. :) Fun times!! On Saturday the condo was being shown so we went to another park in Atlanta and took fun pictures. :) Marriage is the best.

Number Order ALWAYS

2008-02-14T02:23:00.000-08:00

My kids have numbers. Names too, but we save those for outside the classroom. They have numbers on their cubbies....numbers for the teacher station....and they line up in number order. This just makes it a more smooth transition. No one is yelling, "He JUMPED me!" That stressed me out last year. This year, they invite each other in to their appropriate places in line. It's cute, actually. Until a parent came in for a conference and was telling me that her son did not know anyone's names. (It was January). She asked him who his best friend was and he said, "number 19." I laughed a lot. Probably more than I should have. The thought of him running around at home talking about his friends by their numbers was very amusing. We've definitely had lessons on each other's names since that day. :) But we will keep our numbers. Maybe I'll call them by their number until they go to middle school.

Crazy Old House Wife

2008-02-10T15:32:00.000-08:00

Photoshoot at Piedmont Park

2008-02-10T15:19:00.000-08:00

Our house was being shown on Saturday so we decided to have a picnic in the park. It was such a beautiful day. We took the camera and Michael took some shots of me. We're hoping to get good ideas for when he gets deeper into photography. Silly, maybe. Fun? Yes!!! Enjoy!

8th Grade Memory

2008-02-09T07:28:00.000-08:00

When I was in 8th grade, we had to write a poem about what we wanted to be when we grew up. At the time, I wanted to play piano.... high hopes, huh? Well, I stood up in front of the class (which was horrifying...) and I started by saying the title of the poem....Pianist. Only, I didn't say pianist...I said a certain male body part that sounds like pianist. Of course, everyone laughed. Of course, I cried. (You could have probably guessed that if you knew me at all growing up). Needless to say, that's the last day I ever wanted to play piano for a living. Sigh....middle school sucked.
Why do I love them so much now? I probably can just sympathize with their pain and agony.

Junk No More

2008-02-09T07:27:00.000-08:00

That's it, folks. It's gone. Junk no more. I have this container in my room full of treats for the behaving children. I have not dipped into it since before Christmas. Now, I know....I shouldn't deprive myself. But, if I have one...I have 50. So, I have taken to snacking on foods such as cheese and fat free whip cream. (not together, of course). So....no more Laffy Taffy for me. Michael even put it in my stocking! Awww..he knows what I LOVE!!! :) So....my vow....JUNK NO MORE.

Voting Day!!!

2008-02-05T16:10:00.000-08:00

I've always voted by absentee ballot. Today...I voted for real. I stood in line. I voted. :) I was excited!!!

Date Night!

2008-02-03T05:17:00.000-08:00

We have continued to have date night every week since we were married, just like we planned. Sometimes we go on double dates, sometimes we go on group dates, one weekend we even drove to Nashville to have date night with Matt and Katie. :) I love date night. Last night we went to the same restaurant as the night we got engaged. Then we came home, played a game, ate dessert and watched a movie. Fun times. :)

Crooked Smile

2008-02-01T15:26:00.000-08:00

We've started a "Boy's Club" at school which is essentially a way for the boys to have positive male role models. They dress up every Thursday for events. This is one of my students. I bet I re-attached his bow tie 15 times that day. Eventually, I just left it. It totally fits his quirky personality anyway. He sits in his chair and raps all day. If his academics were struggling, I would probably ask him to calm down a bit, but he's a very bright boy. So, I've decided to let him go...let him rap...let his talent blossom into something beautiful (or vulgar, whichever the case may be).

Tips!!!

2008-01-26T07:26:00.000-08:00

I have never been a girlie girl. I've never really worn make-up on a regular basis. I've done it in phases...but never really knew what I was doing during those times. My best friend, Katie, did my hair and make up for my wedding. I loved it. I love looking back at these photos. I've even considered taking a class on how to put on make-up. I just want to know how to even out the colors on my face...and make me eyes "pop." Ok, I felt silly saying that...but it's true. So, if any of you readers out there have any ideas or know of any websites or any advice...leave them!!! :)

My turn!

2008-01-23T02:57:00.000-08:00

I figured that I had to do a "shot in the mirror." So, this is me - and I am attempting to take fun pictures.....or maybe even be a photographer. We'll see how it goes. :)

Photo Stroll Shot 11

2008-01-21T15:25:00.000-08:00

Photo Stroll Shot 10

2008-01-21T15:24:00.000-08:00

Photo Stroll Shot 9

2008-01-21T15:23:00.001-08:00

Photo Stroll Shot 8

2008-01-21T15:23:00.000-08:00

Photo Stroll Shot 7

2008-01-20T09:07:00.000-08:00

Photo Stroll Shot 6

2008-01-19T18:12:00.000-08:00

Photo Stroll Shot 5

2008-01-18T10:12:00.000-08:00

Photo Stroll Shot 4

2008-01-16T11:07:00.000-08:00

Photo Stroll Shot 3

2008-01-16T11:05:00.000-08:00

Photo Stroll Shot 2

2008-01-16T04:14:00.000-08:00

Photo Stroll Shot 1

2008-01-15T08:47:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, Michael and I walked around Buckhead and took photos. It was my first time (since I was 8) using film. I enjoyed it! Michael really enjoys the urban, abandoned, graffiti filled parts of town to take pictures of. I like the pictures I took, though I will keep keep exploring, taking pictures, and find what I like!!! :)

Crazy Peaches

2008-01-14T14:37:00.000-08:00

This is my family. We were trying to take serious family pictures at my sister's wedding a few years ago. These pictures still crack me up. I love my family!!

My husband, My inspiration

2008-01-03T03:23:00.000-08:00

The first time Michael and I took a photo stroll (October, 2006) he brought me a camera. I hadn't ever just walked around to take photos. It was a very enjoyable experience. We've done a few photo strolls since then, but last Saturday was the first time I used a film camera. I really enjoyed it. At first, I felt like I was not supposed to be taking the pictures...like I was violating something.

I will be choosing my favorites and posting.
I have also struggled with wanting to write, but not knowing what to write. This will help me know what to write about. :)

So...here is my NEW HOBBY in 2008!!! :)

Check back soon for photos!

I chose Atlanta. :)

2008-01-02T17:22:00.000-08:00

You Know You're From Atlanta When...

You give directions starting with, "Go down Peachtree" and include the phrase, "When you see the Waffle House."

You only know your way to work and your way home.

You only drink Coke or Diet Coke - drinking Pepsi is blasphemy.

You know to wear sneakers to the airport.

The 8:00 AM rush hour is from 6:30 to 10:30 AM. The 5:00 PM rush hour is from 3:00 to 7:30 PM. Friday's rush hour starts Thursday afternoon, and lasts through 2:00 AM Saturday.

You use "Sir" and "Ma'am" if there's a remote possibility that the person you're talking to is at least 30 minutes older than you are.

You can say Ponce De Leon Avenue correctly.

The falling of one rain drop causes all drivers to immediately forget all traffic rules.

If a single snowflake falls, the city is paralyzed for three days, and it's on all the channels as a news flash every 15 minutes for a month. All the grocery stores will be sold out of milk, bread, bottled water, toilet paper, and beer.

If there is a remote chance of snow, and if it does snow, people will be on the corner selling "I survived the blizzard" t-shirts, not to mention the fact that all schools will close at the slightest possible chance of snow.

If you are standing on a corner and a MARTA Bus stops, you're expected to get on and go somewhere.

Construction on Peachtree Street is a way of life and a permanent form of entertainment, especially when a water line is tapped and Atlanta's version of Old Faithful erupts.

Construction crews are not doing their jobs properly unless they close down all major streets during rush hour.

You never go 55 on "The Watermelon 500 or the Georgia 400.

You know you're not allergic to pollen, because if you were - you'd be dead already.

You've never gone around the block and ended up on the street you started on.

You haven't been downtown at night in years

You've woken up at 4:30 am on workdays to beat the traffic to work, intending to leave work before 3 pm to compensate.

You know at least five different ways to get to work, none of them ideal.

You know what "sunshine slowdown", "auto-flambe'", "topside" mean, and what color a H.E.R.O. is.

You know where PIB, JCB, FIB, MLK, PDK and "Grady curve" are, and you try to never go there during any of the nine hours of rush "hour"

You've thought about getting a blow-up companion for the front passenger seat

You hope you are the one to spot the vehicle that is the subject of the latest "Amber Alert" which has been flashing for ten minutes on the DOT message board exactly 13.5 feet above the hood of your SUV

You've been in traffic on 85, 75, 20 or 400 (choose one) - wondering if your fuel, your cell-phone battery and your bladder will make it to the next exit, just 1/2 mile ahead

It's 4:30 pm Sunday, you're stone-cold sober and you've just finished the last left-over hot dog when you realize that in exactly 12 hours you have to get up and go to work - again

You actually get these jokes and pass them on to other friends from Atlanta.

Weight Loss Blog

2008-01-02T11:06:00.000-08:00

I've created a blog for my weight loss! Feel free to visit it and encourage me! :)

http://mwlg.blogspot.com/

:)
Amy Nelson

Happy New Year!!

2008-01-01T22:06:00.000-08:00

So, I have had the same NY resolution every year since I was 15. Lose Weight. And every year I do. But, I gain it back. I have been going to Curves for 2 months and Weight Watchers for a few weeks. I'm going to do it this year. My sweet, encouraging husband bought me an elliptical. I am going to do it. By December 31, 2008, I am going to be healthy. I am going to be (for the first time since middle school) in my healthy weight range according to whoever makes those stupid charts. Happy New Year to me!

Wedding Photos!

2007-12-22T14:03:00.000-08:00

Michael had finished our family photo blog. :) This is where all of our pictures will be from now on, though I will still write on here.

http://theothermikenelson.com/family/

:) Enjoy!

Merry Christmas from the Nelsons!

2007-12-21T14:42:00.000-08:00

A Nelson Family Christmas Letter

It's Personal

2007-12-16T11:17:00.000-08:00

Let me start by saying that I have disabled comments simply to avoid debating. Any responses, disagreements, etc.. are welcomed, but through email. aepeach@gmail.com

+++++++++

At church this morning, we heard the third part of a sermon series called "It's Personal" by Andy Stanley. Today's sermon is called "Undeniable." The following is a link to the most recent sermons at church, including todays.

http://www.buckheadchurch.org/messages

+++++++++

Who I was in the past combined with personal experiences combined with what I was taught have all shaped me into the person that I am now and I will never ever be anything but thankful for that. The hardest thing for me has been being able to acknowledge that there might be truth outside of what I was taught.

Here are a couple of examples:

The church that we attend has a very big music production. The lights, the power points, the band, the songs, (and today even the trash can drums in the isles) are all big. I loved it. First of all, I love music. All kinds. Though every week when the music starts, I get the feeling that something is not right. Maybe it's because the church that I grew up in was not very uppity. They had a piano, the organ, the occasional guitar, and in recent years, a small praise team. Is one music ministry better than another? I don't think so. I'm beginning to realize that it's alright to enjoy the worship at my church. It's alright to worship Jesus when the music is louder and the power point has more color.

I started Weight Watchers this week. It is being held in a small church down the street. It is led by a lady that is also involved in ministry of the church. She was telling about her week and how she was at a party and opted to just have a couple glasses of wine. I grew up believing that a Christian having a drink of alcohol was a sin. I never really understood why I thought that...and never had a valid argument for it....but I know that I argued it relentlessly. Is it a sin? Or is it simply getting drunk that is a sin? Below is a link to great sermon on alcohol.

http://www.marshillchurch.org/audio/alcohol_driscoll_5pm_south_03_24_02.mp3

I have lived a life full of questions....big and small.
Should I go to that party?
Should I steal that gum?
What college do I go to?
Should I date him?
Should I hold that grudge?
Should I forgive?
Am I supposed to stay at this church?
Do I go to a church that better suits my needs?
Is it even about me?
Should I leave this church ministry?
Should I join that church ministry?
Am I Nazarene?
Am I Calvinist?
Am I simply a follower of Christ?
Once saved always saved?
Predestination?
John Calvin?
John Wesley?
Jesus Christ?

Here's my answer.....

"God, If you are to be known, I want to know you more than I want to know answers to my questions."
~Andy Stanley

My Most Memorable Christmas

2007-12-08T07:50:00.000-08:00

My sister, Lori, encouraged her readers to post Christmas memories. Here's mine...

My most vivid Christmas memory was the one that I got stuck in Kentucky for 2 days. Blah. I left Nashville at midnight and it took me 3 hours to get to Clarksville because of the snow. People were sliding off of the road right and left. I opted to get off at the Oak Grove exit a little past Clarksville. My goal was to find a hotel. Of course, they were all filled up. No room in the inn.

As I was driving away from the hotel, I got stuck. An older man happened to be walking from his car and I asked if he could help. He got in my car with me as the passenger and attempted to drive my car. He got it as far as the McDonalds parking lot and told me he was done helping me. i noticed that there were people in the McDonalds so I knocked on the door and asked if I could come in. They said no. So, I sat (not even being able to get into a parking spot) in the parking lot for a few hours. During this time, my heat went out so I opened my suitcase and put on as many article's of clothing as I could. I looked ridiculous, to say the least. As I was sitting there, the stupid McDonalds kids opened the back door and they were sledding right in front of my car. Mocking me.

I finally got a hold of my dad which basically proved that there was nothing he could do. I know he felt helpless as did I. I got up enough courage to attempt to drive across the street to the truck stop. After an hour or so of getting stuck and forcing my way out, I made it. There was a little diner in the truck stop and thankfully the sweet little old waitress let me sit there without buying anything. I had only enough money for gas to get to KC. I sat there for about 6 hours calling anyone I could think of. I had a friend that lived a few hours away in Kentucky, but we both decided it would be pointless for him to attempt to come to where I was. I got a hold of Brian Wilson (a friend of the family) and he looked up a hotel close by and secured me a room for that night. I was so grateful. The only problem would be getting there. It was a couple of miles up the road...(uphill).

Later in the morning, I noticed that more cars were attempting and succeeding so I thought I would brave the storm. I made it. :) I gathered my things and slid across the parking lot to the hotel lobby. I told them my name and they informed me that the only way I would be able to have a room was if someone checked out (which was unlikely because both exit ramps were closed due to trucks sliding and blocking them). So, I sat in the lobby with all of the other stranded motorists. I made a few friends (sadly we did not keep in touch). I even babysat children while their parents walked to fast food restaurants to get lunch. Without mentioning that I had no money, 3 different families bought me lunch. There really is kindness in strangers.

There is one girl that I met in particular. She was traveling from New Orleans to Ohio for Christmas. She was deciding whether or not she was going to go back home. We had just found out that this storm had been declared a national state of emergency and that everyone should find shelter and stay put until the guards can come and clear the roads. She kept saying she was going to leave, but finally we talked her into staying at least the night. Around 6:00, a few rooms became available so after sitting in a lobby all day, I went to my room. I remember that being one of the loneliest feelings ever. My family was hours away. No familiar faces close by. It was a few hours until Christmas Eve. I really wanted to make it home.

I finally drifted off to sleep and woke up around 8 the next morning. Christmas Eve. I made the decision to try to leave. I really wanted to get home. I went down to the lobby and one of the hotel staff informed me that he had a big truck and that if I got stuck to call him and he would come help me. Again, the kindness of strangers. :)

I left and while it took me a while to get up the ramp and onto the highway, I made it. Until St. Louis, I was in bumper to bumper traffic. After that, it was smooth sailing. I made it home at around 9:00 on Christmas Eve. :)

Over all, it took me about 42 hours to drive from Nashville to Kansas City that Christmas. I have a friend that left Germany after I did and made it to KC before me. Ha... :)

Merry Christmas. What are your Christmas memories??

It's a Nelson Thanksgiving

2007-11-25T15:13:00.000-08:00

Our first Thanksgiving was perfect. :) We had dinner with Mike's family the Sunday before Thanksgiving. On Thanksgiving Day, I cooked for Michael (he made the gravy). On Friday, we went and cut down a tree and decorated it. :) It was a perfect week.

Weekend with the Seatons!!! :) (Post 2 - Date Night and Best Friend Pictures!)

2007-11-13T03:53:00.000-08:00

After taking best friend pictures, we went to The Melting Pot for dinner. Yummy!!! Then we went to Wal-mart and bought a game and played late...fun times with great friends. :)

(****See the previous post for the pictures Michael took of their family****)

Weekend with the Seatons!!! :) (Post 1 - Seaton family pictures)

2007-11-12T16:22:00.000-08:00

Little Bella turns 2 in January, so we went up to do her 2 year old pictures. We figured we would make them family pictures while we were there. They turned out beautifully! My husband has a gift. :) Enjoy!