The Walker household

My weekend project....

2012-02-10T06:28:00.002-05:00

Oh, Bakerella!! Why, oh why... Did you catch my daughter's eye?.... This is what she chose to fix for her Valentine's party. Wonderful! Now, I must try to replicate! But, don't worry girlfriend I'm sure I will not be any competition! My daughter however ...... I can not say... Lol!

For more on Of these beautiful creations go to... www.bakerella.com

When God Speaks...

2012-01-18T13:12:00.003-05:00

I always knew that somehow,... someway,... someday... God would lead us back down the adoption road. It was something that made my heart leap anytime I thought about it. Then a few years went by,.. & I somehow got lost in the whirlwind of.... 3 kids, work, practices, church, friends, family.. & OH YEAH.. a husband ;) Anytime Matt made mention of another child ....It was Quickly QUICKLY shut down by me! I felt like I had enough on my plate. Really,.. not to be rude.. just honest.

But, then.. this summer.. God used my children & a radio to change my heart. Don't ya just love how he does that?.....

It was during the summer (our busiest time of the year)that Faith, our youngest said one day. I wished I had a baby brother. Then McKenna joined in with . "Yeah, .. me too." Then Broughton said.. "Yeah,.. I'd teach him how to hunt & fish."

I stood there with a shocked looked on my face... Astonished ... at what I was hearing.

Faith never asks for anything! & That girl loves being the "baby" of the family. So, I was shocked to even hear those words come out of her mouth! I got me to thinking... but, I would just shut it out & say.. Nope.. not now. Matt had been throwing little hints for awhile about going back to China. I would just say.. "yeah, right" Because I knew,.. it was sooo far out of our reach... or.. So it seemed.

The next day.. I was on the way home from work for lunch.. & I turned on the radio. I heard this sermon from 1Samuel 3: 7-10. It was where Samuel heard some one calling his name & 3 times he awoke trying to see who was calling him. When he awoke Eli, Eli realized it was the Lord that was calling him & told him what to do if he heard his name again. What happened???...

"Then the LORD came and stood and called as at other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" And Samuel said, "Speak, for Your servant is listening." 1 Samuel 3:10

I felt that God was speaking straight to me...I had been to caught-up in my little hamster wheel of life.. too busy to stop & listen to what God was calling us..to do. I came straight home & got down on my knees! I asked for God to forgive me,.. for not listening for his voice & I thanked HIM for possibly allowing us to start another Amazing Journey! If that was his will... we prayed that he would start opening doors.. not us.. but Him! He has opened doors like you wouldn't believe since then!!! Praise God!

We are very early in the process. The whole "Paper-chase" has officially begun. ;)

We ask that you would please keep us in your prayers as many of you know.. it anit' an easy road.. but the end is very well worth it!

I finally did it...

2012-01-16T18:15:00.004-05:00

I had a day off....

House was cleaned on Saturday.....

Not much on T.V.......

Didn't feel like reading......

so...

I taught myself how to have .. what I call a "flashy" header! Yay me!

;) I hope you enjoyed my new look & HAVE a Great Week;)

GiveAWAY!!!!!

2011-12-31T09:47:00.003-05:00

WHo?!... Who.. wouldn't want to win this......

I know I would love to! But.. that's not all...

what about this......

ANd.. THIS....

OH- MY- How cute are those skirts?!

I wanted to help spread the word of a friend adopting! Desiree & I have know each other for awhile! Probably since our adoption of Faith. She is a very talented lady & a God fearing woman! I am so excited that they are adopting again from China! This time a boy... His name is Joshua & he is a CUTE-TEE! If you could help bring him home.....

which .....

I ... know you WOULD.. ..

Please consider donating to their giveaway! You won't be disappointed. It's a Win-Win! Even if you don't win these fabulous prizes... you've helped bring Joshua home to his forever family! Click on any of these pictures above to donate & read about their story of Joshua!

Christmas in Review

2011-12-28T08:44:00.003-05:00

We had a wonderful Christmas this year! We celebrated with our many traditions....

~The girls & I made special goodies as gifts for teachers

~We made our Gingerbread house (that is given to us YEARLY by a special neighbor)

~We hung our annual adorenaments!

~!!NEW~~this year... ANNABETH! She came to stay with us during the holidays.. & we hated to see her go! :( (insert my smirky smile)

~We had many Christmas plays & concerts

All in all... it was a Christmas to remember!

As many of you know... this was my first Christmas without my Papa...

It was sad... I had a good Cry...

But, I'm ok. I know he celebrated with JESUS in Heaven on Christmas day!

And... although...we miss him terribly.. here...

We will see him again.. one day!

Love & Hugs to all my bloggy friends!

The Birthday Girls!

2011-10-15T18:21:00.001-04:00

It is hard to believe another year has come & gone! Seems like their birthday's sneak up on me every year! The first of Oct. the girls turned "8" & "6". This year, we had another quite family party for both girls. They couldn't have been more happier. Well,... unless they had a sleep over. Geesh! They have been begging me for awhile now & we just haven't said yes to that ... yet. I'm sure it's coming & we won't be able to hold them off any longer. ;)
Thanks to my lil' sis for this Awesome picture! It's almost perfect.. .... for some reason Broughton decided he would make a crazy face!

It was either this one to post ... or this... one...

Yeah,... he's really excited .. i know! LOL!

This is WHY I do NOT kill myself in trying to take family portraits!

I mean really... why.. should I put myself through unnecessary torture..???!

;) lol!

Soccer Time

2011-09-14T19:08:00.007-04:00

The girls wrapped up with soccer this past week. McKenna's team came in 3rd place & Faith's team.....Well,.... They're all winners! ;)

McKenna's Team 2011

Faith's Team 2011

Faith's "Cheezy" Grin!:)

Miss Priss Posing!

We REALLY "look" Ready don't we?!

It was a Great year.. but, we're all tired out now from all that running!

They had so much fun playing this year, even thought it's ROUGH because it starts right at the beginning of school. Every year, I say.. NEVER again... but,.. here I am,.. making it through another soccer season!

Now..we're on to softball! ;) Yep... travel ball. But, nothing on a Big scale.. just practicing,.. & games here & there. THANK GOODNESS..

I don't know if I can keep up!

A really Long time.....

2011-09-05T17:14:00.005-04:00

Wow... has it really been 6MTHS... since I last blogged?
...
that... is..

SAD!

We at the Walker household... have had a REALLY tough.. 6 mths.

My family experienced an unexpected death of my Papa.. on the very DAY of my last post, on Feb. 23. It was really hard on all of us. We miss him so much, & there's not a day that goes by that I don't think about something he used to say,... or do. He truly was the "glue" that held our family together. A month prior to his death,.. we found out my Mema had cancer. He had been so patient & loving with her... trying to help her anyway he could. She has now been through 6 Chemo treatments. She has been through a lot these past few months. We are praying for healing for her daily.

In April, McKenna gave us a scare, with some stomach issues. After some testing,.. we discovered she has reflux. She is now on meds.. & seems to be doing well.

In May,.. I started having a time with my dreaded Disease... Crohn's. After 2 CT scans and 3 Remicade treatments... chest pains & an afternoon spent in the ER... I now feel somewhat better! I will go in the next few weeks for my other LOVELY test [insert my sarcastic roll of the eyes] .. the big "C" word! UGH!! I hate it!.. But, a girl's gotta do.. what a girl's gotta do.. Right?!

After this test,.. hopefully my Dr. can figure out.. where we are with my disease.

In June we were soooo busy with FCA camps I could barley catch a BREATH......., we also had a big wedding where my two beauties were the flower girls!

Aren't they precious! This wedding was very special.. because,. the Bride was our Flower girl in our wedding 14 years ago! It was so sweet & it was an honor for my babies to be apart of their special day!

Although we've had a rough couple of months... we have had many blessing too!
One of the BIGGEST blessings was..

McKenna accepted Jesus as her Lord & Savior! So now,.. my daughter is....now... my sister in Christ!!! We were trilled! Her daddy was able to lead her to the Lord,.. during a nightly bible devotion that we do each night. Matt also baptized her.. & It was precious! It was a night that we will never forget! We pray everyday that All our children will come to know the Lord.. & I can say.. there is NO greater JOY that watching your children make a decision to follow Christ! I am forever Grateful to Him & His blessings upon our family. God is Good!

Hopefully, I can find some time to keep this blog updated! I have really missed blogging about our family. I look back now,.. at older post,.. & almost want to CRY at how much our babies have grown up!

Wordless Wednesday....Apparently... Faith's sink was broke!

2011-02-23T06:31:00.002-05:00

Dear...Tooth Fairy.....

2011-02-22T06:20:00.005-05:00

I just had to write this memory down! It was too good not to share here on the blog.

Last week, while eating,.. McKenna realized she had swallowed her tooth! Yep! That's right! SWALLOWED! lol! She will NOT let anybody touch her teeth,.. she likes for them to just .....

fall out ......on their own.

I've warned her about losing her teeth while sleeping, or eating.. etc. Course,.. she really doesn't care what I think about that subject.

And honestly,,...

it's not worth the fight! HA! So.... we just let'em... "Fall out". Makes for a happy McKenna. :)

After realizing that she had lost her tooth,.. she immediately was trying to figure out how she was still going to receive payment for something that... .... wasn't there under her pillow. Such a smart girl. So, she devised a plan. She would write the tooth fairy a Sweet note explaining her dilemma and hopefully,.. she would buy the story... & thus,.. still leave the dough under the pillow.

And,.. just what do you think that tooth fairy did?.............

Well....

He caved.

He came

He saw

His heart... melted!

Yep,,,, I said He. LOL! ;)

Hope you have a Terrific Tuesday!

My Valentine to YOU....

2011-02-14T06:21:00.002-05:00

" For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. "

John 3:16

May God Bless you on this Valentine's Day & may you find HIM, Seek HIM, & love HIM with all your Heart & Soul!

We Love... Because He first Loved us....

Daddy Daughter Dance

2011-02-12T15:18:00.003-05:00

My girls.......Love their Daddy! Last Friday night he took them to a Daddy daughter dance. They were so excited! They loved getting all dressed up to go dancing. After dancing the night away he took them to their favorite local Chinese Restaurant.
It was so sweet to see them come home, spinning, twirling, & singing! It made them feel so special & I'm so incredibly Grateful to have a Husband that cares enough about His little girls to make them feel like little Princess'.

I am so Blessed.....

Happy Birthday to my little Man!

2011-02-01T07:49:00.013-05:00

I can NOT believe that I have a "10" year old in da houze!!!!!!!

He is Sweet, & Kind to his little sisters... wellll....(sometimes)

like in this cute picture!

He attended his first FCA meeting this year! This was big at our house, because his Daddy has worked with FCA most of his young life. Now he is finally old enough to attend meetings.

HE has ALWAYS been "All Boy"!! He loves Exploring,.. fishing.. & hunting!

Lately.. his newest thing is.. playing with his "Airsoft gun"! So, guess what kind of party he wants to have?........... Maybe I'll have more pics on that next week.

**sigh*** wasn't it just yesterday that I was planning a ..."Pooh Bear party"

(insert ..another...BIG **Sigh**)

excuse me while I cry a litl'bit!

okay.. I'm back..

In honor of my little man... I wanted to share an AWESOME book for all you Mom's to Boys.. It's called The Runaway Bunny!

It's just so sweet.. Boys are adventurous, they like to live on the edge a little bit, but most.. love their Momma's deeply. This book is about an adventurous bunny who tries to tell his mom how/where he's going to runaway.. but, Momma bunny always has a come back.. like.. I will be right there!!

If you don't have it.. GET IT!!! I will ALWAYS treasure those nights.. reading this book to my little bunny. He still remembers it,.. and occasionally.. I will still read it to him. Just to let him know.. Momma is always here!

Tonight we celebrate Broughton style.. his menu :

Chicken Tenders WITH HONEY MUSTARD! (if I forget the HM.. I'm dead meat)
Mashed Potatoes- HOMEMADE
Mac-N-cheese

Yup!! That's my boy! An "ALL STARCH" kind of meal! lol! Yes, now I know what some of you healthy mom's may be thinking... "where is the green stuff"..

...well, it's not on the menu tonight girls! It's my baby's 10th! ;)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY B-MAN!!

MOMMA LOVES YOU SO MUCH!
You will still be my little cuddle-bunny won't ya?......

pleazee??.....

~on a side note.. to my bloggy peeps..when I first started blogging he was just turning 6!! I wrote a post on it here. Some of you may remember it. Man.. time flys!

Fancy Nancy

2011-01-28T06:20:00.003-05:00

On Thursday, McKenna's school had a Fancy Nancy Night! McKenna could hardly wait, she had been talking about it for weeks! It was for the daughters & Daddy's. They read books, dressed up like Fancy Nancy & ate Fancy Nancy snacks. It was a STUPENDOUS night! (If you know anything about Fancy Nancy books... you know she loves to use big words. Like Fabulous, and Fantastic & she believes in being Fancy! Her books are so cute & remind me of my girls!

2011-01-03T08:00:00.002-05:00

Monday-

Hamburger Goolosh
teriyaki green beans
rolls

Tuesday-
Cube steak
mashed potatoes
salad

Wednesday-

Hot dogs

chips

Thursday-

Chicken Spagetti

salad

garlic bread

Friday-Pizza

Saturday-Kids pick! Date night with my honey!

Sunday-

Pot roast

peas

potatoes

rolls

A New Years... Goal.

2011-01-02T13:58:00.004-05:00

Yesterday.. started a new journey for me. I was encouraged by a sweet blogger, that had read thru the entire Bible this past year. Hearing her say "it became a habit" to read her bible.. I thought.. Now, That's what I need to do! Make it a habit to read my bible! So, I began praying, & from that prayer God confirmed to me that this was something that I needed to do. I had heard of the "Radical" experiment by: David Platt & The Church @ Brook Hills, & have started the book many times,.. just haven't finished it yet. ;) I noticed sometime back on his website that he has a complete 1 year bible reading plan. I downloaded a copy & began my journey through the Bible.. in ... one.. year.

I know that there will probably be days when.. I will NOT want to read... but, I pray that I will.. & that God will show me something Special.. in the midst of my laziness.

I know that many things will TRY to hinder me from reading..the many things like...

---kids----computer------housework------work------busyness------and SLEEP for crying out loud!

But, I'm gonna try with all my mite to pass the urge to skip any day.

And.. who do you ask is going to keep me accountable..??

My sweet hubby told me this morning that he would read thru it with me & we could hold each other accountable. I LOVE this man!! I'm sometimes overwhelmed at how blessed I am. He is what a husband should be, supportive, strong, God-fearing, a Godly leader in our home. I can never thank God enough for such an Awesome man!!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T20:17:00.004-05:00

Last night we brought in the new year with our Sunday School class. We ate tacos, roasted marshmallows, and danced it all off with ...

I bought this after Christmas. It was the first game that I've bought.. (for me) since we got the Wii. I tell ya,.. it has been well worth it's money! We had a dance off between the girls & guys. It was a hoot!

And.. yes, in case your wondering.. Christians can dance! HAHA!..

Me & Faith standing by the fire.
Everybody wants to roast a marshmallow!

Matt & I getting our groove on! lol! And.. sad to say.. he beat me! But the Girls won it over all!

Hope you all are enjoying your NEW YEAR's Day & I pray that God has MANY blessings in store for all my Blog friends.

Much love!

My favorite things....

2010-12-17T19:37:00.011-05:00

I absolutely LOVE the homemade ornaments that my children bring home each year!!! I look forward to diggin those out each year when we are decorating for Christmas. This year I decided to have a special tree for all of my "Special" ornaments. The kids took a hand in decorating it & had so much fun!

It's beginning to look like I may need another tree soon! HAHA!

Today we went to Faith's Pre-K class for fun, food & entertainment. We saw the cutest little "Cupid" that you ever did see...

See what I mean!! PURE.. Cuteness!!

We had so much fun & enjoyed watching Faith perform today. When we got home.. she pulled out a sack full of homemade ornaments! I was in heaven!!! She has the BEST teachers ever! Thank you so much Mrs. Jennifer & Mrs. Tonia!! I know you both worked hard to get everything together and completed! I'm so thankful & Love them!! You made my day!!

Hello... it's little ole' me...

2010-11-21T16:23:00.005-05:00

Yep, I finally had time to post! Well,.. actually I took the time. I wanted to catch everybody up with what's been going on at The Walker Household over the past 3 mths. So,.. I created a collage just for my blogging buds! Hope you enjoy!

WE started school:
B-man= 4th grade
Little bit= 1st grade
Doddle Bug= PRE-K ..(whaaaaaaaaaaaa)

Soccer Days!

Homecoming Week!

Birthdays for McKenna & Faith!

Many of you may remember that last year our choir recorded a CD with a great collection of songs.. including all Adoptive families favorite song.. Orphans of God! Well... we recorded another CD in Oct. This time it was a Christmas CD! I know I'm being bias but,.. I think it sounds Great! Below is a picture of me and the girls from One Voice. We each had a solo, and I couldn't resist taking pictures of us all! If you are interested in a CD.. leave a comment & I can send one out to you! We are accepting any donation. Better hurry.. they're going fast!

And... I believe I'll wrap this up with the latest photos.. Halloween!

I hope you all are doing well! I've been missing you & I have a lot of catching up to do! lol!!!

Have a Great Thanksgiving!!

Oh.. and by the way.. I am STILL redesigning blogs in my spare time... as you can see. ;) Hop on over to my site above and check out my latest designs. Let me know if I can help you re-design your bloggy space!

My Girls

2010-08-25T14:01:00.010-04:00

They have become so close. They share rooms, they share toys,... they have even learned that they can share Momma & Daddy! lol!

Life is definitely more FUN with a Sister!

Thank you God.. for Sisters!

Sisters by Blood:

Sisters In CHRIST!! ;)

For more Black & White Wednesdays.. check out Lisa's blog:

Indian Blood!

2010-08-24T09:31:00.009-04:00

This morning the kids were watching Squanto. Faith ran and grabbed her Indian hat that we bought her last summer. We took a trip to Cherokee NC. & met some real Native Americans & had a blast! I told the kids that they had Indian blood in them because my Great-Grandmother was full Cherokee. They thought that was pretty dog-on cool. Matt,.. said.. now I know where you get your grit from! HA!!

Anyway.. back to Faith..she looked so darn cute with her little warrior feathers on! But, then.. Broughton & McKenna decided to be down right MEAN!

Faith come to me & said:

"Momma, Broughton said I didn't have Indian blood in me.. & that him and McKenna did!

And, McKenna told me that just because i had an Indian hat on.. that "that" didn't mean I was an Indian!"

CAN YOU FEEL THE STEAM COMING OUT OF MY EARS?!!! I was ready to RIP into them! UGH!

I calmly said.. Did that hurt your feelings baby?

She shook her head & said: "Yes"... &

she began to look down at her little feathers.

I knew what she was thinking.. even at 4.. she knows that she was born in China.. & that I didn't give birth to her. It weighs heavy on her little heart sometimes. I wanted to CRY!

Instead.. I hugged her, & said.. baby.. they don't know.. you could have Indian in your blood. One thing is for sure.. you have Chinese in yours.. & they Do NOT! You are Special too!

Then... I scolded Broughton & McKenna.. & made them apologize..

And. ... then.. I thought.. Lord,.. that just isn't' enough!

So.. I went into preaching MODE!

I went and grabbed a book from the shelf called..

"A Mother for Choco"

& I grabbed the BIBLE!

I read the story (by the way.. if you DON'T have this book in your home.. YOU SHOULD get it!) It gave a GREAT seg-way.. into the verse Ephesians 1:5

..He predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.

God adopted US!! I stressed this to all 3. We were in need of a Savior & Jesus was just that! We weren't Jewish...like him.. but that doesn't matter to Him! He created us all differently.. but, loves us ALL the same.. UNCONDITIONALLY! Just like Momma Bear in the story.. who had different babies (she had an alligator, pig, hippo & now a bird) Jesus LOVES us.. no matter the color of our skin.. or our birth heritage! PRAISE GOD!

I told them to be mindful of their words to one another.

I remember the saying from childhood....

"sticks & stones.. may break my bones.. but words will never hurt me"

I told them that was ... in a nut shell....

BULL!!!!

What a croc of lies!

I remember things kids teased me about in the 4th grade & I'm 34!

Words stick, & they DO hurt!

Then I was convicted myself.. of words.. I sometimes.. say to others.

And,.. what about those things I say to myself.. or think to myself?.....

I believe those count too, because God hears everything. I think back to the lessons I learned from the bible study... Me, Myself, & Lies by Jennifer Rothschild.

"Who you are and what's in your heart are revealed in the words you speak."

Matthew 12:34 says:

"The mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart"

Sometimes.. we just need a "heart" check.

Reminding ourselves.. of:

*Who we are in Christ

*What HE has done for us.. we're not Perfect!

*How hard it must be .. to love.. "me" sometimes.. BUT he does.. ANYWAY! PTL!

I can honestly say.. that TODAY.. God showed me ...

12For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

Hebrews 4:12

Our kids were...

Broken...

I was..

Broken...

before..HIM!

It is my prayer that from reading this.. that maybe God is trying to reveal something to you today..

Have you ever been Broken..

before Him?

Have you ever felt like you don't belong?

Have you ever been teased?

Have you ever teased others?

What a comfort & JOY it is to know.. that our Saviour LOVES us.. and brings us to repentance & brings us.. in the "Right" relationship with Him!

He forgives..

He Loves....

Over... & Over!

It's Hot!

2010-08-21T08:50:00.005-04:00

These days.. if you're gonna do anything outside....

it better involve "WATER"!

This summer we've spent a lot of time at Gran & Big Daddy's because they got a POOL a month ago! YAY! We have been lazy bums...... I tell ya! Today I had some things to do at the house so I let the kids play in the yard. I pulled out the twirling daisy to keep them cool & I let them throw water balloons. Sadly,.. they threw all of the balloons at each other before I could even get a PIC! lol! They couldn't wait. ;)

Enjoy the pics & Have a great weekend!!

It doesn't take much to make me happy

2010-08-20T17:09:00.005-04:00

Yes,.. it's true!

You all may remember a post awhile back about how much I LOVED my itunes & my ipod. Well, I love it so much that a bought an AUX cable for my car so I could take that ipod with me wherever I rolled. Except,.. I didn't realize that MY van didn't have an aux port up front! POOH! I mean REALLY who would make such a cruel thing?! I have one in the back row that Broughton uses to play video games on thru the tube... I tried to tell hubs we needed the "touring" version!

Matt had a "hook up" (that's another word for.. I have no idea what it's called) that you could run through a radio frequency, but.. only problem is.. when you travel, it keeps loosing signal! Thus,.. I keep having to change frequencies! UGH!! After, a near death experience (that we will not go into on here) I decided that maybe the radio frequency thing wasn't the option for me.

hum.. ... I was pretty bummed!

Until the other day, my brother-in-law told me exactly what I needed to do! All it would cost me was probably 5 bucks!

He was RIGHT! I googled..Yes.. GOOGLED.. the type of cable I needed & I stumbled on this Awesome site called MacMall.com Oh, my Goodness I quickly had to put blinders on & go in for only what I needed! ;)

I found the right chord.. (a Y Audio Cable.. just in case you're like me & haven't a CLUE about what type of chord ya need) which was only 4.99, added a charger for $.99, and some cutesy covers, all for only $9 bucks! I ordered it yesterday at lunch, & it was on my back porch today after 1! OH.. how I "heart" internet orders! I didn't even put on makeup or anything to get it! ;)

And, because I just have to blog with pictures... here are some for your viewing pleasure..

If Broughton takes that thingy out.. I will put him.. on tha roof of the van!

I hid the chord under the mats & seat so the kids won't trip over anything.

There we have it.. now I can "ROCK ON" \ m />.<\ m /

Silly Faces & the K@rate Kid!

2010-08-14T08:57:00.003-04:00

My Girls....

They Always make me Laugh! We were working on our silly faces. ;)

This is the way Faith likes to wear her goggles.... LOL!

Faith showing off her Karate Kid moves. ;)

McKenna said.. "Faith can do the Karate Kid .. cause.. she's Chinese!

Yep! They are a hoot, & make me laugh everyday!

A Matter of Prayer

2010-08-11T15:35:00.004-04:00

Have you ever had questions for God.. that you just wanted Him to Answer? Like.. instantaneously answer?

Recently, I have struggled with a situation in my life, that I had to hand completely over to God.

COMPLETELY over to Him!

I haven't blogged about it, or said anything on here.. or facebook. Only a close friend & my husband knew. A lot of people run to the Internet and just start.. Blabbing! Like diarrhea of the mouth. Only,.. what they say.. is not glorifying to God.. in any way, shape, fashion, or form. They are only making "idols" of themselves. Trying to still the lime-light from God. That is something that I NEVER want to do! Only He is deserving of Praise and Glory.

All the Good that I have... is... from Him!

I have learned that.. through every struggle.. or storm that I face in life,.. He is always there. Lending an ear to hear,.. a "shoulder" so-to-speak to lean on, and loving arms to take me in.. & just hold on tight. He cares, He loves, & He hears!

He may not answer the way we want Him too....but,.. He does answer.

Life isn't easy & It's full of surprises and ... hurts!

I want to be more intentional about my blogging. Sharing... Not just about me & the Walker household.. but, about what God is doing in & through us!

Maybe that's why this little storm.. passed by.. so that I can share what God has layed on my heart.. to share.

Romans 12
Living Sacrifices

1Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. 2Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
3For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. 4Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his[b]faith. 7If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; 8if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
Love

9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
14Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.[c] Do not be conceited.
17Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. 18If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay,"[d]says the Lord. 20On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."[e] 21Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Lord! Help me to be a Living Sacrifice! Thank YOU for your infallible word .. which brings comfort.. and healing to my soul! Help me to forgive.. and Love with sincerity, but NEVER compromise what YOUR will is.. for me!

Wordless Wednesday!

2010-08-04T18:03:00.002-04:00

So many.....

2010-08-03T10:30:00.002-04:00

Silly Bands!

Who woulda' thunk that such a thing as "Silly Bands" would be an ingenious IDEA for kids?!

Seriously,.. why didn't I think of them?!

I could be on some island right now with these precious kiddos...

But, Instead..

Here we sit...

Counting the Countless SILLY BANDS!

Kuddos to you... Silly Band Maker! You receive TOO much of my Money!

LOL!

Yep! It's Shark Week!

2010-08-01T16:08:00.001-04:00

I Will be glued to the TV ! "Fo-Show"

Broughton's first camp!

2010-07-30T09:54:00.002-04:00

I guess I knew that one day...

He would be old enough....

To go by himself!..

To Camp!

Last Friday, Broughton finished up a week of Winshape C3 camp with Family Fun Day!

We worshipped....

Cheered on "Safari"... (the group B-man was in.. notice the "S" he's holding up) ;)

Watched our main man do what he does BEST...

Dang..fine shot! Like his mom,.. Of course. ;)

I tried showing him a few tips.. ( Bawahaaaahhaahaaaa!)

Then it was on to Wacky Science!

He was so creative & SMART!

Then.. he gets ....

Serious....

Very Serious!

So Serious... he'll HIT anything that comes his way!

See what I mean!

McKenna & Faith enjoyed catching the baby Peepers

See.. Baby Peepers.. lol! We were soaking up All of God's Creation!!!

All in All.. Broughton and the rest of the crew from The Walker Household gave "Winshape C3" camp a 2 thumbs up!!

oh.. and...

Eat.. More.. chicken!

For more information about Winshape camps visit HERE!

YAY!

2010-07-20T07:42:00.003-04:00

I would like to do a Brag post here... & give a WHOOO HOOO shout out to Rebecca from Living In a Rainbow World!!! She's in China receiving her little gift from God!!!

Congrats Sweet Friend.. I know you have waited a long time!!!

What's on your iPod?............

2010-06-24T09:54:00.008-04:00

I have ALWAYS been a Lover of music! I used to stay in my room with my little record player (YES! I had a record player! lol)

Then,.. I got my first little boom box.. remember these?

Mine was a little more rounded.. cuz I'm a little later 80's child.. & it was Hot Pink.. for those of you who Know me... I just know you are LAUGHING.. aren't you?!! HA!

Then.. Oh.. & Then SOMEBODY became a genius and designed these things.... & I had to have one..

Plus.. they were much easier to carry than this..

And NEXT... came the Compact Disc! Oh yeah!!!!!!!!!!

So.. I grabbed this

& one of these...

Now.. it's 2010! Yes... 2010! And what do I own? No, not an iPod touch.. not YET anyway...

I have my very own... nano! TEE HEE! And what does my Awesome husband give me for my birthday?... No, not an iPod touch... ;) Not yet anyway....

He gave THE MOST practical GIFT, EVER!!
And, HE is Number one
BA- BE!!!!!

He gave me an iTunes gift card!!!

AHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!

It's Great!!!
So,.. here's a look at what's on my iPod! Notice my Cyndi Lauper, Taylor Dayne, & Salt-n-Pepa! LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

What's on yours? I really want to know?.......

A page turned.........

2010-06-20T20:25:00.005-04:00

3 years ago I started creating bows & clips for my little girls. Being a stay at home mom at the time... we really couldn't afford all of those expensive bows to match every outfit, so I decided to learn how to make them! After learning....people started to notice my talent & began requesting orders. Little did I know.. that I had stumbled across something that would bring in a little extra money. So I started selling them online & "ReignBow Princess Designs" was born.

I have made bows for many people & sent them all over the US! For that I am very proud. This year, I started working outside the home. I have been WAY to busy .. trying to keep up with the kids, housework, church, bible studies, our singing group practices,.. etc...etc...that I haven't had time to make bows & advertise. I had a tub full of supplies that just sat in a closet.

After much prayer I decided to sell my stuff & get out of the biz. Soon after God gave me my answer... I had a friend contact me.. (another stay-at-home mom) wanting to know.. if I had anything I wanted to sell! Can you believe that?! I hadn't even mentioned to anybody (other than my husband) that I was selling my things! I immediately told her YES.. & within a day my supplies were sold! To GOD BE THE GLORY!!

So... a page is turned... ReignBow Princess is no more. I wanted to personally thank YOU.. my bloggy friends for all of your support during my bow making years. Some of you were frequent customers! I also thank you for encouragement!

Thanks for 3 Great Years!

HELLO Beach...

2010-06-04T07:14:00.002-04:00

I know you've missed me!!!

We are taking a short trip to just get AWAY! I told the kids it was to celebrate their year-long school work!

Be back soon!

McKenna...

2010-06-02T08:15:00.005-04:00

In 1 day I will have a first grader in da houszze! McKenna has had a Great Kindergarten year & she absolutely LOVES school. She is already talking about who her first grade teacher could be! Needless to say.. it's gonna be a lonnnnngg summer for this girl! ;)

Last week she had her very FIRST field day. She has been with me for the last 3yrs going to Broughton's field days & now she got to enjoy her first one! She hopped, jumped, splashed, spinned, pulled and ran! I was tired just watching her! HA! I guess.. once upon a time.. I had all that energy too, but somewhere along the way.. something came and SUCKED ALL that energy up! hum...... I think enutero.. we mothers.. pass that along in the cord. Just sayin...

She also graduated from Sparks at church. This is her with her buddy L waiting on their rewards. She has reminded me over and over that she will be in Nehemiah Kids next year !(a program for 1st-6th graders) She can hardly wait!

A few weeks ago she received her trophy for participating in our local REC. league baseball program. She loves the game.. and sports is one area.. where she NEVER whines! Seriously! She really loves it! I should mention.. that she did NOT inherit that from me! Ha! I don't like to sweat! ;)

We're so proud of you McKenna Lynn! You are our little sunshine! Keep on shinning for Him.. the one who created you & is daily molding you into the woman He wants you to be!!! We love you..

Momma & Daddy

.....Hi YA!

2010-05-24T11:43:00.004-04:00

Oh.. My..

I can't believe I've sat still Long enough to type a post. However, I feel like I OWE it to all my blogging buddies out there.. (whom I've neglected so badly) *ahem* HI Jill! ;)

It's SOO funny! I used to HOUND my blogging friends for MORE POST.. MORE PICTURES!! HELLLAR' Anybody home?!!

Now... here I am.. busy as a bee.. & I just can't stop long enough to post. I am now working most days with Matt as his Admin. Assistant & on the day I have off, I am going CRazY trying to catch up on house work, errands,.. etc.. etc. (You know what I mean..)

I do thank you for your comments & emails of concern about my absence. You Girls Rock!

Okay.. nuff bout me. Let's recap what's been going one with the Walker Household!
This may be a series of post.. so just hang on
We'll start with...Broughton:

He had a FABULOUS season of Baseball! He played catcher for the very first time in his LIFE, and we couldn't be more proud of him. He caught a foul ball one night.. & I came out of my chair screaming & shouting!! (you would have thought I was at a Football game.. or something).. Oh, well.. I am working on controlling myself! ..

I'll let you know later how that's working for me!

The Sista's chillinMy little Monkey in the tree! Is she rocking the Pink converse.. or what?! ;)

To be continued.......

Black & White Wednesday

2010-03-24T08:04:00.003-04:00

Last week McKenna's bunny of 4 years.. Died. She was extremely sad & morned the loss of her pet. We had a funeral, put flowers on "Baby's" grave and to top it off.. McKenna sang Amazing Grace. It was the sweetest little pet funeral ever.

The next day my parents were coming to visit. As soon as they heard about Baby's passing.. they got on the phone trying to find McKenna a replacement! "Thanks Momma & Daddy".. no.. Really.. Thanks!

I told Matt we were Finished with the Rabbits! They are so adorably cute,... yet so messy! Guess who gets to clean that mess up?.... Yep, you guessed it! ME!

As soon as I saw the baby bunny... I melted! I AM SUCH A SUCKER! I don't know which one is my worse weakness.. kittens or bunnies...?? They are just so Darn Cute!

I mean.. Look at her! How could you say no... to this cute face?

And,, Yes.. that is a "Hammock"... for.. a Rabbit! LOL!

The things we do.. for our kids... or should I say.. the things a Grandparent does.. for their Grandkids!!!!!!

Hey Momma & Daddy.. youz a Sucker too!

For more Black & White Wednesday's head on over to "The Long Road to China"

My little sister....

2010-03-21T23:25:00.002-04:00

is truly amazing! I am so PROUD of her and all of her accomplishments! I pray that God will continue to Bless her as she captures all of His Beauty!

Check her out...

Your chance to win an Ipod Touch or Ipod Nano!!!

2010-03-19T08:09:00.004-04:00

I donated! Can you help to?! Every month our church has a dollar offering where we pass the plate around and ask every one to donate at least a DOLLAR to the cause of the month. This past fall our church had a dollar offering for the organization "Loaves & Fishes". Matt & I, along with 2 other adoptive families in our church were asked to give our testimony. We have given our testimony of Faith in the past so this year.. we decided to focus more on this wonderful organization. As I was preparing for the testimony ,..I was looking on the Loves & Fishes site.. looking for some Cute Pics of some kids that I could place on our PowerPoint. As I was looking at the pictures I recognized a sweet little face... Marianna!
Lisa & I became bloggy friends awhile back when she asked me for a blog re-design. I just love Lisa & her family & was so excited to hear the Marianna was at the Hidden Treasures home in China!! Small World .. huh?!!!

So now they are raising funds to help bring sweet Marianna home. They are hosting a raffle at their blog site My Marianna

The raffle is for an Ipod nano or a IPOD TOUCH!! (Oh yeah!!) The cost is $5 for 1 chance or $10 for 3 chances to win!! Click on the link below to donate now!!!! Thanks!

2010-03-15T08:14:00.002-04:00

I found this short video clip on the computer & I just started to cry!! When I look at this and see just how tiny Faith was & yet SOO incredibly SMART,.. I can hardly believe my eyes! This video was taken only 1 month after being home.. yet she knew everything that I was saying! AMAZING! God is AMAZING!! I sometimes think of "how I would be" if I were in China.. & no one spoke my language. NO ONE. I think I would be balled-up in a fetal position somewhere! Crying.. cuz I love to Talk to people! If they didn't understand me.. they probably wouldn't talk to me! lol!

I don't know where the time goes.. but, it seems like yesterday we were just flying in to China. I remember this time 3 years ago.. I was frustrated and ready for my DANG TA! (Travel Approval) :)

Now... here we are... 3years fast forward.. & I DO mean FAST FORWARD, Faith is home where she belongs & it's as if she has always been here!

Enjoy the video! I know I did! Notice those dirty little toes!! TOO CUTE! And, I promise you.. I think her foot is the SAME size!! Chinese people have tiny feet! She has enough "squeaky shoes" to last her till 3rd grade probably! LOL!

2010-03-12T19:41:00.006-05:00

Well...

the days have flown by...

we have decorated Valentine's

...finished up Basketball season...

attended a couple of Birthday parties...

attended our 1st Annual FCA Board Retreat @ St. Simons with some of our lovely board members..

designed a few sites....

had our Annual FCA Banquet with Greene..

And.. as you can see from Matt's sling (which he wanted me to hide in this pic)..he has had shoulder surgery!

can you say AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHhhhhhhhhhhh!

Yep.

I will try to do better at bloggin... I am just having a very hard time trying to fit it all in a day.

Does anybody else have this problem??

According to the site meter reading.. I have about 3 visits per day. Ha!

:) I guess that is what happen's when you go MIA from blog land!

I have had several of you email, text, facebook & call to see how we Walker's were doing. Thanks to all of you for your concern and Love!! I do miss you guys & I have a LOT of blog reading to catch up on.!

TATA for now!

What I've Been Doing lately...

2010-03-08T09:07:00.000-05:00

Black and White Wednesday

2010-01-27T14:33:00.002-05:00

Hard to believe this was a year ago!

For more Black & White Wednesday click here!

2010-01-26T09:29:00.000-05:00

Both McKenna & Broughton have THE FLU! UGH! !!!!

However, they are feeling much better today. Praise the Lord! Please pray that no one else in our family gets this terrible flu bug!

I'll be back..

Awarded!

2010-01-22T08:06:00.004-05:00

Thanks Ohilda for the Over the top Blog Award!! I love these little questioners!! This award came with rules. You are supposed to answer the following questions with ONE word. (kinda hard for some) Then you are to award 6 friends!

Here goes!

Where is you cell phone? Charger

Your hair? Short

Your mother? Thoughtful

Your father? Gentleman

Your favorite food? Sushi

Your dream last night? Blank

Your favorite drink? Coke

Your dream goal? Mission Trip!

What room are you in? Living room

Your hobby? Blog Designing

Your fear? Children's safty

Where do you want to be in 6 years? Debt-FREE

Where were you last night? Home

Something that your not? Quiet

Muffins? No

Wish list item? Kodak Zi HD (Video Camera).. Ohila.. this is where I need to go to your favorite store! ;)

Where did you grow up? Georgia

Last thing you did? Fixed lunches for kiddos

What are you wearing? PJ's

Your TV? 46"

Your pets? Too many

Friends? Loyal

Your Life? Blessed

Your Mood? Tired

Missing Someone? yes

Vehicle? Odyssey

Something your not wearing? make-up! YEEEK!.. Glad you can't see me...

Your favorite store? Hobby Lobby!!!!!!!

Your favorite color? Pink

When was the last time you laughed? Last night

Last time you cried? yesterday

Your best friend? Husband

One place that I could go over and over? Wal-mart! LOL!

One person who emails you regular? Children's Place! Wished they'd stop the torture my wallet hurts! lol!

Favorite place to eat? Macaroni Grill

Now to my bloggy friends.. I award..:

I don't like to leave anybody out.. if you are a frequent reader here... you have been awarded! lol!!

Thankful Thursday

2010-01-21T08:29:00.004-05:00

I haven't done a Thankful Thursday in a long time. I was just thinking the other day, as I saw the linky button on my sidebar.. how I have really missed these post. I am truly thankful everyday for so many things.. actually, I can never thank HIM enough. God has blessed me beyond measure!

Today I am thankful for:

1) My friend Jennifer, from My Three Sons and a Little China Girl, is flying.. on a plane... to CHINA!!! I have followed Jennifer for Over a year now.. maybe 2, & it brings me so much JOY to know that she is finally going to get her precious baby girl!!!!!! Jennifer,.. God is GOOD and HE is always Faithful!!!!!!!

2) I'm actually thankful for my job. YES, can you believe it? But, I really DO have a dream job. I work for my husband,.. yes.. he's sleeping with his Admin. Assistant. LOL! He is an Area Director of the Magnolia Midlands FCA. God has given me the opportunity to help him.. by using the skills I inquired from a High School job. lol! This is NOT what my degree is in. I am supposed to be teaching.. but GOD has His plan.. and I'm thankful for that. This job has allowed me to

1-Spend more time with my husband (sometimes good...sometime not so good. ;) )
2-I set my own hours around the kids school time
3-When me or the kids are sick.. I can stay home without regret or pressure about missing work.
4-I get to help plan events, which I do like to do. But,.. it's planning events for things that "make a difference" like this... or.. this.. Being a part of these things... giving back.. helping spread the Gospel.. I love it! I'm in the process of planning something for our Coaches wives' right NOW! I can't wait to see what God has in store!

I could go on and on.. about this special job. Was it a job that I would have chosen?.... No, But has it worked out and has God shown me this is where He wants me to be? YES 100 %!

3) I'm thankful for my family's health. There are so Many around us, (that we know) are not in good health and are going thru some really tough times! We pray for them daily! We've had our little sickness like virus' and colds.. but nothing Major.

4) I'm thankful for being able to have a night and a day with my husband here. Just allowing God to use us to help at another one of those Awesome FCA events!

5) I'm thankful that I'm going to spend some time with family this weekend! I haven't seen them since Christmas!

6) I'm thankful for our group "One Voice"! We led Praise & Worship for our Winter Ladies Retreat last weekend. It was AWESOME!!! We had such a great time & we ALL know .. that this is what God has called us to do... which makes it that much.."more better". lol! (my little sis used to use that phrase when she was little)

Thanks for reading just a few of my Thankfuls...

If you want to read more.. head on over here for more.

Hope you all have a Thankful Thursday.. cuz, God is GOOD!!

Black and White Wednesday...

2010-01-20T07:49:00.002-05:00

Okay... don't laugh...

I will NOT pretend that I can take good photos. But, I will say.. I have some pretty handsome/beautiful subjects.. that make my picture taking look pretty darn good! LOL!

I am participating in this "Black & White Wednesday" because of... peer pressure really.. LOL! Just kidding! Seriously, I happen to have some pretty AWESOME friends & a little sis.. who take THE MOST amazing photos EVER! My friend Lisa..from The Long Road to China is hosting Black & Wednesdays. She is a VERY talented,.... photographer! As my friend Jill says.. shes got SKILLZ! lol! (Jill... you know you can take good photos too.. where are your black and whites.. girlY?) ;)

So.. here's a shot that I took of McKenna a few days ago. I love the way the sun hits her EYES! They just pop! They would have popped a lot more.. had I got my focus right! lol! Yes,.. camera was on "auto".. SHHHHH!! I know.. the SHAME! ;) But,.. I'm trying to improve! lol!

Now we go to......"insert.. drum roll....""...........................

The Black and White!

Ta-DA! Isn't she lovely?! I think so!

Thanks Lisa.. that was fun!!

If any of you reading this would like to participate too....head on over NOW.. (Click on Lisa's name above) and enter! Show us your SKILLZ! lol!

Have a Good Wednesday!!!!

Bands of Love

2010-01-18T09:52:00.002-05:00

My friend Desiree, from Happily Ever After is a VERY talented young woman! Let'me tell ya! Not only that but she has supported me during my hairbow days and now it is time for me to return the favor!

See this button......

When you finish reading this post.. CLICK on it! You are gonna want to! She makes the CUTEST dresses EVER!!! For only $25!! Desiree & her husband are adopting their 6th child.. (3rd special needs child from China!) She is a stay-at-home mom & this is her way to raise money for their adoption. She is only 150 dresses away to meeting her goal! PLEASE... if you can help.. Go NOW and click on that button ... check out the little dresses she has made and order YOURS today!! Did I mention she is offering FREE shipping!!!! Y'all SERIOUSLY, that is a DEAL!

Student of the MONTH!!

2010-01-15T07:34:00.004-05:00

Our B-man got The Student of the Month Award!!

Can I brag just a little bit here?......

He's a marksman! He makes the hit Every time!

Despite the look on his face here.. he LOVES roller coaster rides!

He's a lover of the "Game"

He's got his Mama's smile

He's our little "Lefty"

He is Such a Blessing to our family! We tease him sometimes and call him "Boss"! He likes to tell you how to do things. LOL! (For the record,.. he gets that from his Father.. I PROMISE) ;)

We love him sooooo much. And,.. I think the thing I love the most.. is... he is NOT ashamed to come love on his Momma!! I just melt!! Just like the day I gave birth to him!!

Can you tell that I'm just a tad bit PROUD!

Praying for Haiti!

2010-01-14T07:43:00.004-05:00

On the Early Show this morning, I was watching a special by CBS correspondence Jeff Glor. He was in Haiti and giving a report on the devastation. He was speaking with a man & woman who had their family beneath a make-shift tent under a tree. They had 6 children.. they didn't know, .. how they were going to eat, where they would sleep........

The man made a statement that has STUCK in my head that I CAN NOT get out. I heard him ,...and immediately God gave me a verse!!!
The Haitian man asked Jeff Glor..

"You know what I want to know... I want to know.. WHERE does our help come from"

And Just like a snap of a finger... I thought of this verse:

"I lift up my eyes to the hills, where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the maker of heaven of earth."
Psalm 121:1,2

I don't know if this man knew that what he asked ... was taken straight out of the book of Psalms! I just began to pray for him and his family...., for protection,.. for food,... for comfort!!

I have sat here in my nice, warm, home for two days now,... following the news on TV.. tearing up at the horror I see, while sipping on my coffee and trying to decide what to fix of supper!! It just doesn't seem .... right?.... I want to help.. I want to FLY right now to Haiti! To roll my sleeves up and start peeling away some of the rubble that has trapped many underneath! Every minute of the day.. is a minute less for someones' life who may be trapped.

Sadly.. I can't fly to Haiti,... but, I Can pray and donate to organizations that I know are legit.

I think the easiest, quickest way to donate was texting to donate. The American Red Cross has set up a way to text to "90999" & it will make a $10 donation to help those in need in Haiti.

Click Here for more information.

I pray that just as the sun comes up in the morning.. that God will heal the people of Haiti!

I wanted to share a song that Casting Crowns sings that has Psalm 121 in the lyrics. It's called "Praise You in the Storm".
While I was watching this morning on CBS they also showed a group of people who were homeless... hurting.. injured... but they were SINGING praises to GOD! Our GOD! The maker of heaven and earth!! It was priceless & tearful at the same time!!

Please pray for the people of Haiti, missionaries, mission work, and relief effort that is taking place right now! Put yourself in their shoes.. this could be US!

Blog Design

2010-01-07T08:47:00.006-05:00

I am Still re-designing blogs. It's something that I really LOVE to do,.. I just wished I had more time! lol! Since going back to work, I find it extremely difficult to blog, facebook, make bows, and design blogs! I do what I can,.. when I can. I wanted to share a recent blog that I redesigned. I will share a website that I did later (cuz, i think these ladies deserve their very own post!)

Meet Jennifer.

My friend Jennifer, got a New look! And...... It's PINK! She recently received her LOA and is Patiently waiting her TA!!!!! It's coming Girly.. hang in there! For those of you who do not know what these adoption terms are: LOA-Letter of Acceptance, (in a nutshell, China says YES) TA-Travel Approval,(China says.. Come on and get your Precious little one!)
Oh yeah, those are 2 letter combos that EVERY adoptive family looks forward too!

Congrats Jennifer, I can't wait to see Wesleigh HOME!! Much LOVE!

If you ever need any help with your blog or just need a new look contact me:

blogsforbabies@yahoo.com

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-27T20:34:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone had a Wonderful Christmas! We are alive and well.....mostly.. I've had sinus issues and.. maybe when I feel better I can upload more photos of our Christmas. For now, I hope this one will suffice. ;)

Bow Making is ON!

2009-12-18T07:34:00.004-05:00

Thanks everyone for your well wishes! You guys are so sweet & that is one thing that I do miss about blogging.. the encouragement that you ladies give. Thanks!

I love the look of homemade bows! I love receiving homemade bows on my gifts. It's like 2 presents in 1! Someone actually took the time to make me something & I'm all about the details.

I must admit.. that last year,.. I don't think I made the first bow! lol! It was crazy.. & I was lazy! All my gifts came with sticker bows.

This year I sat down one night while watching TV and I made bows like CRAZY! lol! I think it was worth it.

Last year my mom gave me the neatest gift (before Christmas). Someone (homemade) these cards... (Ladies.. raising money for adoption?... this would be a neat idea!) She took the names of our family, had them printed on card stock, cut, and placed cute Christmas stickers on each one. She charged I think.. $7.00 for 100 and they are LIFESAVERS!! It's one less thing to "think" about at Christmas time. Just slap it on a gift, place some tape on it, & you're good to go! Well, I do have to write the "To:" lol!

Happy Wrapping Y'all!

Traditions have begun!

2009-12-15T22:46:00.006-05:00

Traditions are in FULL swing here at our house. First we started our "Adorenaments" (12 special ornaments that explain the different names of Jesus) My Grandmother gave these to us when Broughton was a baby & we have read/hung these ornaments every night on the 12 dayz before Christmas. The kids Absolutely love it, & look forward to "who" gets to hang the ornament. They are also learning ALOT about Jesus and who He really is. Tonight are ornament was "The vine". The verse was from John 15:5. The short story talks about remaining in Him & producing much fruit. When I asked what kind of "fruit" Jesus wants us to produce..McKenna loudly exclaimed.."UOOOHuuhh.. I KNOW.. Grapes!"

LOL!

Well,... like I said.. we are doing this every year, she'll get it later! I did explain to her what we were talking about & she just said ok. :)

At least.. Broughton understands now!

And,.. just because I guess I wanted to make myself CRY.. look what I found.....

From The Walker Household

Check out this.. This was Faith's first year home with us in 07. She was hanging up her adornament!

And.. look at these cheezy smiles!

B-man showing off his "Ga-Bulldog" ornament.

""sniff-sniff" oh my babies!! Where has the time gone?!!!!

Okay.. composing myself now....

We also decorated our Gingerbread houses. Every year we have a SWEET, sweet neighbor who brings Gingerbread kits for us to decorate. The kids look forward to her coming every year! After having them for about a week.. and not decorating them.. I Could not take her asking me ANOTHER minute.. "when are we gonna decorate them houses?" So, we got them finished and boy do they make a mess! But, they are fun to do and the kids love it!

One more thing that we like to do each year.. is to add a new ornament to our tree. Not just any ornament.. one with meaning,.. one that reminds us of something. This past summer we were up in Maggie Valley, NC and visited one of my FAVORITE Christmas shops.. The Cabbage Rose. As we were looking for our new ornament.. Broughton came and got me & Matt to show us what he thought.. should be our new ornament....

Whatcha think?.. Pretty good ey? I thought so too. Not Bad B-man.. Not Bad at ALL!!!

Our Lord Our Saviour,.. The Lion & The Lamb!!! Praise Him!

No matter what your traditions are in your home.. We pray that you won't forget the true meaning of Christmas and draw near to those you love.. and LOVE!!

2009-11-20T17:38:00.002-05:00

SHew.... I Tired! Obviously, Pulling all nighters are not my thing anymore!!!! As I pickedthe kids up from school today.. I slightly ran up on the curve with the van! All the teachers were laughing hysterical.. I SWORE it was just he sun in my eyes... ............lol!!!!!!

We had a great time at the movies. We had Lots of caffeine, popcorn, and laughs! It was refreshing.

The movie.. WAS GOOD! Can't wait for the next one!

..cAn't WaiT!!!!

2009-11-19T07:18:00.002-05:00

oh, yes... dats right. Tonight I'm having a little girls night out! I can hardly believe that I just typed that! I will be going to dinner & A VERY LATE night/EARLY morning movie! HAHAHA!! I'm not a big Twilight fan,..but, my sister is. I'm reading "New Moon" now & it's really good! I'm looking forward to some much needed getaway time! I will be pulling an "All nighter"! Tomorrow we have an FCA Golf Tournament .... oh MAN... I'm gonna need some SERIOUS caffeine!!!!!!!!!

STARBUCKS... HERE I COME! LOL!

Update..and Apologies!

2009-11-10T06:57:00.005-05:00

First off.. I don't think I've ever been away from blogger this long! I don't have any excuse other than busyness! So.. Sorry to those who have clicked over here.. only to see NOTHING new! Here are a few things that have been going on.

We've had a family reunion...

(this is only part of my goofy family.. BUT .. I LOVE'EM!)

Fall Festivals

-I don't have many pics of this.. I was VERY busy at this event.(working a booth, singing, etc...) & did not have time to pick up the camera! I did manage to catch a few pics of Broughton during his "Drama show"! It was so cute!!!

AND.. BIG NEWS!!!

ME and 3 other talented young women have started a singing group & after much prayer we now have a name... "One Voice" !!! We are all so excited about what God has in store for us. So far, we have been very busy every month and have been asked to be the music leaders for a ladies retreat in Jan! SO EXCITING!

We mostly sing contemporary Christian music. Not.. big gospel fans.... it's okay..... lol!

So far we've sung:

Father, Spirit, Jesus

Revelation Song

I will Sing

I will Rise

Sweeter

We are now working on "Oh, Holy Night" sung by Point of Grace! I can't wait to sing it..IT is so Pretty!!!

As you can see.. I am LOVING it!! I know this is God's calling on my life.. & when you are in the will of God.. doing what HE has called you to do... It's AWESOME!!! I love it!

I can never thank Him enough for the talents that He has given me! Oh. and By the way... we said... "Have a Song.. Will TRAVEL!" .. So call me if you are interested in us!!! lol!!

We had a trip to Wild Adventures!!

This was so much fun!!! We went with our church & had a blast!

McKenna sticking close by Daddy.. she is not big on thrill seeking rides.. LOL!

And.. as you can see.. McKenna must get that from ME!! LOL!

Look at Miss Cool Cat with her glasses on! Too cute!

And we had Geek/tacky night at church...

Broughton.. playing the part.. Hummmm.... he knows this too well!! I told him he looked like Erkle! He said.. "Who's that?"

Yep.. I'm getting old!!

Hope you all are doing well! I'll be checking in on your blogs soon!!! Hugs & Love!

Why I DIDN'T get the photograpy gene....

2009-10-16T07:59:00.002-04:00

My Little Sister... Got it ALL!!! lol!!! Isn't this AWESOME?!! She does such Great Work & I am very proud of her! She has her own business now, & this is just a sample of a Photo Shoot she had last week! Of course,.. I had to show it off!!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-10-14T12:32:00.002-04:00

McKenna took my camera ....without permission..

2009-10-09T09:43:00.004-04:00

Thankfully I got it back.. and everything is under control now! lol!

The Birthday Gals!

2009-10-06T07:30:00.006-04:00

On Thursday our girls turned.... 4 and 6! I can hardly believe how TIME has FLOWN by! We celebrated their day with cupcakes for McKenna's class, then we took them to our local Chinese restaurant. McKenna wanted shrimp & Faith wanted noodles. Lucky for us.. the Chinese place has both! LOL!

On Saturday we had a small party for them. Because the girls have a birthday on the same day, we wanted them to have their own special party so the past 2 years we had separate parties. Two big parties in one month was BREAKING US! This year we decided to do them together. It went ok.. however, I could see both girls show the "little green monster"(jealous) at times.

I'm still not sure how to do this. I guess I will have to become more organized and plan & budget their parties! LOL! We want them both to feel special .. but, we also want them to realize that many children do not even get a CAKE for their birthday. I think a lot of the times we tend to spoil our kids with nice parties.. then.. they(our children) EXPECT that every YEAR! ;) You should have seen McKenna's face when I told her.. no friends this year kiddo. She started to cry! I felt bad for her.. for like .. A SECOND! Then I had to toughen up and say.. "GIRL, we just gave flip flops @ church to little kids in AFRICA who DO NOT even have shoes! Do you think they have birthday parties?!!!!!!"

MAN! It's hard,.. teaching your children... without LOSING your MIND! lol! But, you know..we had the party & they were just as happy, & had a Great time!

Do your pictures look like this?

Here's one of Faith Not looking.. but, McKenna smiling!

Then.. .... we have one of Faith smiling... and McKenna.....well,... see for yourself! ;)

Guess who DID get to come to the party?... My Little Eli!! He was loving Broughton's John Deere Gator. (No,we didn't plan the matching shirts!... Aren't they cute?!)

Look at those Dimples!

Well, he enjoyed it.. until the Gator broke down! lol!

PUSH HARD MCKENNA!!!!!

So then.. we took him on the Real thing.. Big Daddy's Ranger. We took him to see the cows &....our PIG! LOL!!! Remember that post?.... It's still there!!

I think I'll send my crew for the weekend to my Lovely sister & Brother-n-law.......

BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAWWWAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!!!!

Sweet Bliss!

2009-10-05T08:41:00.003-04:00

Yesterday during church, it was just me & my boy. Matt went to another church to hear one of his coaches preach, McKenna was at children's church & Faith was in the nursery. I told Broughton to sit on the 3rd pew from the front, so I could SEE him from the choir! (That way.. I could sneak out of the choir & get my hands on him.... if need be) He obeyed and did just that! He was so good & I was so very proud.

I LOVVVE taking notes of the sermon. Actually, I have my own little notebook that I carry with me in my bible holder. Most Sundays our pastor places an insert in the bulletin for everyone to take notes. He usually has a power point presentation & we "fill in the blanks".
I, didn't have time to get a bulletin & my little notebook was NOT in my bible holder. UGH!!!!! But, Never fear.... my little man.. had a plan! He WANTED to share the notes WITH ME! Can you believe it?! I was all teary eyed... I ...was... just... in.... sweet ....bliss.. Y'all!

I know.. some of you may be about to puke right now.. but,.. I really don't care! This was such a precious little moment shared with my little fella!!

He's only in the third grade.. and some of these words.. he didn't quite understand. "Quench" was the first word that he whispered to me and said.."Momma, what's that?" So.. i whispered back.. "Quench" means.. to Satisfy completely... not needing anything else.. it "hits-the-spot".. as we southerner's like to say!
Praise the LORD that HE Quenches our thirst!!!!!!!!!!! And,.. no I'm not talking about water.
Another word that I thought he might not understand was Transformation. (notice what I wrote out beside the word) He carefully took his little pointer finger & read what I wrote & looked up at me and shook his head and smiled.. like "Yeah, I got it!"

***Sigh****

Moments like these precious LORD.. I will hold onto forever! Thank you for these special times with my children!

Hope everyone has a Great Monday!

And the winner...........

2009-09-29T07:06:00.000-04:00

..............

of this lovely bow from Reignbow Princess Designs..............

is......................

DRUM ROLL.. PLEASE...............................................................

LALA from Ladybugs and Dragonflies!!!!!!!!!!!

She named the Title for my sweet nephews picture! Congrats to you Girl!! I let my sister pick the one she liked best. She said they were ALL great & Creative!
Thanks to you ALL for participating!! That was fun. We'll have to have another one soon!!! Hope you all have a Terrific Tuesday!

*Lala, please email me your addy. Thanks!

Sweet Baby Faith

2009-09-28T07:56:00.003-04:00

Gosh, I just love this little GIRL! A friend of ours kept the nursery yesterday at church & she took a picture of Faith "reading" to .. **ahem**.... her MAN!

This is the cutest picture EVER!!! I love it KIM!!!! She also.. got Faith to sing her ABC's & she videoed it!!! I wanted to share with you all! Turn up the speakers.. she's a little soft spoken on camera!!!!

Bringing Ava Home

2009-09-26T06:45:00.001-04:00

Meet Ava Shae Evangeline!

Isn't she just LOVELY?! My friend Nicole, from "The Baker's Sweets" is the proud Momma of this beautiful little girl! Talk about a GOD story.. well, this one is Great! Click Here to read about their Red Thread journey & how God is doing Amazing things.

The reason for this post is for awareness & prayers.. Nicole & her family are raising money to help with the adoption cost of bringing their precious little one home.. and GOD is moving Mountains... I have been just in Awe of Him to hear of the donations that they have received from....strangers.. people they have never even met! The total is going up.. UP.. UP! Praise the Lord. However, they still need help. That's were YOU come in. PLEASE, PLEASE.. visit their website below & learn more about..their family and little Miss Ava. If you can donate, THAT WOULD BE AWESOME! If you can't,.. please pray for this special family!!

The Inspiring.. PIG!

2009-09-25T15:36:00.003-04:00

Notice anything...Different?

Do you ever have moments when you feel....that you .....just don't really belong?

Well...

Meet.. this little piggy!

Out of NOWHERE he/she..?? it ...has taken up with the cows. I kid you not.. this pig.. thinks that it is a COW! No lie! We do not know where it came from. It showed up one day & has stuck around... just... grazing with the cows and donkeys.

It is hilarious.. I tell'ya!!

So...

Be inspired... it doesn't bother this little Piggy one bit.. that he's a ....little DIFFERNT!

Wordless Wednesday!!!!

2009-09-23T08:36:00.003-04:00

Okay.. so I gotta talk...

This is my nephew, IS HE NOT ADORABLE?.. I know .. I know.. I can see you smiling on the other side of the screen and agreeing! ;)

Can you give the picture a title?????????????

Oh.. come ..... on.............

It'll be fun..... I'll tell you what... the winner will receive one of these...

Good luck! I'll let my sister pick the BEST title!

Don't have a blogger acct.?... leave an anonymous comment with your name!

Rain drops keep fallin on my head....

2009-09-18T20:03:00.007-04:00

There's something Very freeing about jumping in mud puddles WITH permission! lol!

Can you tell which one liked it and which one didn't?.........

Faith LOVED it at first... until her first jump... she got a little water in her boots! We call her.. "Little Miss Nice Nasty"!! We still love'em both to pieces!!!

Hope you're making the best of this weather too! ;)

The Kissing Hand...

2009-09-17T07:30:00.004-04:00

McKenna has done really well in school. She LOVES school, actually & I can not tell you HOW long this child has waited to GO! After the first week, one night, it hit her that she really... **gulp** Missed her Momma!!

Yes, we cried & I told her a story about a little raccoon that had to go to school. The book is called "The Kissing Hand". I went to our library and they didn't have it, but they ordered it for me & I'm going to go get it today!!

I told her that night that the next morning we would draw hearts in the palm of our hands. She would have my heart & I would have hers. Anytime during the day that she felt like she missed me or Daddy, she could hold the palm of her hand to her cheek and feel the love We have for her! We also kissed the palm as the Mother in the book Did! McKenna was REFRESHED and ready for a New Day! For now... there are NO more crying nights. Praise The Lord! I know, that (right now)we are not called to homeschool. I (we) have mixed emotions about the whole "homeschool" thing. We prayed & prayed about this, & just didn't feel that was what God wanted for our family. So, we'll wait on The Lord & see What He has in store for this Walker household! ;)

I just wanted to share this little story of McKenna.. .you never know when you might need "The Kissing Hand" book as an idea for your little one. And, that's what Blogging is all about.. helping, loving & encouraging one another!

I hope you all have a WONDERFUL Thursday!!!!

Because you're never too young or old.........

2009-09-16T10:02:00.003-04:00

To Ride a Horse!

This past weekend we headed south to a Birthday party. My cousin's little girl.. Isn't she the cutest thing Ever?! She's like the Gerber poster child baby! lol!

My cousin and his wife love horses and have a few, so the kids had a Wonderful time riding.. as well as my 80+yr. old Papa!!

He got up there all by himself too!!! My Mema said.. she was calling him a therapist first thing Monday morning cuz, he had done Lost his MIND!!

Grandparents.. aren't they a HOOT!! I love'em!!!!

We will never forget.................

2009-09-11T08:42:00.002-04:00

*Please join me in PRAYER for the families of those who lost a loved one that day & for

Those who FIGHT everyday for our FREEDOM!

It's Back............

2009-09-10T08:07:00.005-04:00

I had taken a little time off with making bows, but, recently I have had many people contact me. I have tons of ribbon, and I thought.. hey, why not.

I have re-designed the site which NOW allows you to add an item to your cart & easy peasy checkout thru Paypal.

I love.... Paypal!

Come stop by today!!!

www.reignbowprincess.blogspot.com

Can you help spread the word for me?

Please grab my button from the sidebar!!! Thanks!

If you have a custom order... contact me by email & I will help you any way I can!!

keishalynn1@yahoo.com

*Don't forget to sign up for my newsletter, which keeps you up to date with latest designs or "Follow my blog" this will keep you updated as well! Thanks!!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-09T08:06:00.005-04:00

Put'em UP,.. Or I'll blow you AWAY Fish!

TEE HEE!

Gotta Love Boys! They are so fun!!!!!!!!

For more Wordless Wednesdays head over to "My Sippy Cup Runneth Over"

We're better .. I think

2009-09-08T22:01:00.002-04:00

Thank you so much for your prayers, comments and concern. We are much better..however, today... Faith out of now where.. strikes a FEVER! **sigh**

All of her blood work and test came back fine. She just simply has a VIRUS! OH.. how I hate a VIRUS!

I have Lysol-ed the house so dang much.. I think I've killed off McKenna's GUPPIES! YIKES!

Yep, I'm in trouble for that! Sorry Kenna..Momma will buy some more! LOL!

OKay.. Soooo.. I caved tonight and watched the ABC special on Jon & Kate's "Family Secret"!

I know.. I know.. Horrible that I would do such a thing! I think I just wanted to actually HEAR what he had to say. I thought I might get some closure.. but, Sadly.. NOPE.. NADA..
I got nuttin!

Other than........

They both need our prayers! More importantly.. the children are going to need Prayers. I don't know if they (JON & Kate) realize....that.. these kids are NOT going to just walk away from this... one day.. ALL of this "JUNK" will be there for them to see! .. Just watching.. their Parents spiral out of control!
SAD~Just sad.

Blah Blah....

2009-09-06T23:04:00.001-04:00

Dawgs Lost...........

Faith's still sick............

Now,.. I suddenly have a temp...

BOOOOO WHOOOOOOOOOO!

It's GAME DAY!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-09-05T10:19:00.003-04:00

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO.....................

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

DAWGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

AAARRRRFFFFFFFFFFAARFFFFFFFFFFFRFFFFFFFFFFFFFFRFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF!

The Room is Ready............except... there's NO TV hook up yet!!!!!!!!

Dang-Flam-IT!!!!

Oh..Well......

We're still gonna party out.. just me & Matt.. LOL! (since Faith's been sick!)

Happy GAME DAY Y'all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Feeling a little better

2009-09-04T08:00:00.003-04:00

Faith felt better yesterday, even though she's still running a temp. I bought her some play dough and she couldn't wait to be able to play with it! She's just beautiful ...even .. when she's sick!

We made Triangles!

I love the way her puffy lips stick out when she's in "deep" thought. So darn cute.!!! I could eat her up!

This is a picture of our worm house. LOL! Faith's idea...?.I guess they Do sort-of look like worms.

We also made the letter "A"

It's so Good to see her feel a little better! We're hoping & praying that this nasty ole bug will hit the road!!!
Thanks to all who have wished her well!! Please keep praying for those families that I mentioned too, as I am sure there will be many difficult days ahead.

Please Be in Prayer.....

2009-09-03T06:13:00.002-04:00

Tragedy has struck our little town............

On Tuesday night during Broughton's soccer game, a child from the opposing team.. ran to the side lines because he said he was tired. After a few minutes on the bench,...... he... fell... over.... DEAD! There were 2 reg. nurses there at the game,.. who quickly came over to try & revive him while the ambulance was on its way. We are not sure about the cause of death yet,.. we heard it was heart related. He had never had any problems before.

10 years old....

4th grade.....

healthy child....

Gone... in a instant.

It was terrible & we are still in shock. I was not at the game, because I was taking care of Faith (more on that in a minute) McKenna came in the door crying... Broughton was extremely quite,.. Matt was all teary eyed. Everyone there saw the whole thing.

Please pray for the family of this child. I know they are devastated.

* Also,.. as if that wasn't enough of a shocker... the next morning (wed.) we had a football coach die of a heart attack! Needless to say.. Matt was in overdrive yesterday.. ministering to the different schools. Please be in prayer for this family too.

This was just a quick reminder to us ..just how quickly your life can change.... in a moment.

*About Faith...

She has been sick since Sunday. She didn't have a fever, until Tues. afternoon. I took her to the Dr. early yesterday morn. She has a kidney infection, & a virus (we think). Our little town has ALSO been hit hard by the Swine Flu, they were out of test yesterday at the Dr.'s office. After blood work, they didn't think she had the flu, but, we are monitoring her. Please pray for her also.. that God would heal her.

Thank you in advance for your prayers!

For Benjamin...

2009-09-01T08:22:00.003-04:00

My good friend Shelly, from "To China? Again we Go!" is raising money to help bring her baby boy Benjamin home from China!! Isn't he the cutest EVER?!! I could just squeeze those chubby cheeks!!!
Shelly & her husband have adopted 2 BEAUTIFUL little girls from China and NOW are adopting Benjamin. She contacted me & wanted a website to host their news, and giveaways. PLEASE!! PLEASE, check out their site HERE, and read their story.. and help bring this precious one home!!!

Kick'n it Old School...

2009-08-28T08:05:00.003-04:00

We have a Wii....

We have computer games........

We have a DS lite......

We have a Gamecube.....

But,... what do my kids LOVE???

Super Mario BABY!!

My Parents kept my 1st Nintendo from WAY BACK WHEN.., & I found it a couple of years ago. Broughton, & now.. McKenna, love to play it!!!

I,...........of course,........ love to show off my Skillz of Mario Bro.!! LOL!!

I love to hear Broughton say things like.......... "AWESOME Momma"...... "COOL!".......... "Oh,.. I didn't know that was there!"..... "Momma,... you can REALLY play this game!"

LOL!!!!!! I know...... I know... Silly me... BUT hey, A Momma's got to play with her kids.. right?!!

Peace OUT! I'm going to go play some Super Mario Bro.!!!

Soccer Time!

2009-08-25T07:13:00.005-04:00

This year for the first time... The little Walkers are trying soccer out! It started with McKenna wanting to do it & then Broughton decided HE wanted to! Matt is coaching McKenna's team... (Yes! ..for those of you who KNOW Matt.. can you believe it?!) It is too funny! It's funny because,.. Matt was a HS football coach for about 10 years!! The "chocolate chip" ball was NOT a sport for boys!! LOL!! When Broughton told his daddy that he Did NOT want to play football this year & that he wanted to play soccer... I held my breath...waiting for him to Nutt Up! But, Matt surprised me. He said, "If that is what you want to do,.. I'll support you!"

I was so very proud of him! He is such a Great Dad! He was asked to coach a 4-5yr olds group & he accepted... knowing he knew nothing about soccer! LOL!! He is learning & he is so patient with the kids. McKenna is so excited that her Daddy is the coach! Last night was their first game. They both came home.. sweatin. .. but LOVING it!!! Looks like Soccer is a WINNER! Here are some pictures of the night!

Kenna ain't scared!!!

Couldn't she be a Gatoraide poster child?!

She's telling me.. "I defensed him! Yep, I sure did Momma!" LOL!

Of course, with "Coach Walker" you always end in Prayer!!! To God be the Glory!!!

*I didn't realize I did not have that many of Broughton.. there was a LOT more action at his game.. very fun!! McKenna & B-man played at the same time.. so it was difficult to get pics of both. I promise to post more of Broughton later.. to all. you Aunts, Uncles, Grandmas & Grandpas... Etc.. LOL!!

Can you tell me how to get...

2009-08-22T22:46:00.005-04:00

How to get to Sesame Street,,, LA..LA,,LA...

LOL!

My little Nephew turned 1 this week!!! It doesn't seem like it's been that long since he was born???.. Where does the time go?!

We went to his party today.. & as you can see... he is a HUGE Sesame Street Fan.. well.. ELMO FAN! :) They did an Awesome job with the decorating. It was so cute! Here are some pictures from our day.

Happy Birthday little Man.. Aunt KeeKee loves you!

The Awesome cake!!

Eli's cake.

Uncle Matt trying to steal a puff.

The Crew!

Yeah, Baby!

"ME Love Cookies!"

"Me Love Big Bird"!

The First Day of school... & a Very Quiet house..

2009-08-20T21:48:00.006-04:00

Bookbags?... check!

The kids got up bright & early this morning and were ready for their first day of school. No crying, ... no slow pokes,.. nope.. just sheer Joy! Oh,... if Only this will last! lol! I hope it does.

Broughton's room was up first so he was the first one to be escorted down the hall...,.. well, actually.. he LEFT us .. down the hall & scurried into his room! lol! I didn't even get a KISS! What up with that? I'm the MOM.. don't I get a KISS?.. I guess not, anymore.

See,.. I told ya... SCURRIED!! :)

Here he is.. trying to ignore his whole FAMILY at the door.. & *ahem* his momma with that dog on camera!!!

McKenna was next & she went straight to her room with no problem! As I was coming down the hall I heard this terrible screaming & crying.. & I thought.. "Lord, Please don't let that child be in McKenna's room, cuz, she might cry & then I would cry & then Matt would cry .. & then.. we' would ALL load up in the van & go back home! lol!

Luckily, the crying was not coming from her room. She marched right in, found her a seat, right in front of a friend she knew from church. She was nothing but smiles!! We walked out of there with no tears,.. however, when I left the room.. Matt & I both had lumps in our throats.

Here she is posing with her teacher.

We left & headed for McDonald's then home. I thought alot about my babies today. I missed them. I thought about... what they were doing at that moment.... who were their little friends,.. were their teachers sweet,.. etc. etc. I had a lot of time to "think".. because the house was QUIET! Faith is not a big talker & she plays by herself alot. In fact, she was happy as a lark today,.. to have the play room, TV, tent, toys,.. etc.. to HERSELF! When I asked her if she missed her brother & her sister.. she first smiled & had to think about it... She later told me that she did miss them a little. TEE HEE!! Little stinker!!
I am proud to say.. I didn't have a MELT DOWN today. Trust ME.. I WUZ Prayed UP!! lol! I knew it was coming! I am happy to say.. that GOD has seen us through ..

"The First Day of school" !

Holy, Holy, Holy...

2009-08-17T22:00:00.002-04:00

In Revelation 4:8, the Bible talks of the scene in Heaven of the four living creatures who sit & never cease to say
"HOLY, HOLY, HOLY, IS THE LORD GOD, THE ALMIGHTY, WHO WAS AND WHO IS AND WHO IS TO COME"
Today I was reminded of this passage when Tangle emailed me this video today & I was watching & worshiping.. I was just in AWE of this AWESOME song & the beautiful young lady singing it!!! It is Great! I know the video is long.. but, talk about taking you to the throne of WORSHIP?.... OH.. MY... WORD.. You have GOT to check this out! Kari Jobe... YOU GO GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SHE DID IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-08-15T22:24:00.002-04:00

She finally did it! She woke up this morning and decided that she wanted her Ears Pierced.. TODAY!!

We are so proud of her & her Red little ears! TEE!! HEE!!

Simply Happy!

A Visit from Nana, Papa, & Mema!

2009-08-13T09:01:00.004-04:00

We enjoyed having my Parents & my Grandmother..aka.. "Mema" come yesterday & spend the day with us. I cooked a special lunch for them. I tried a NEW recipe out! Oh, it was so Yummy. It was a Parmesan Cornflake Chicken! I know you're thinking.. "cornflake?" The cornflake give the chicken that special "crunch" & it adds a little sweetness. My family loved it! They especially loved the peach cobbler & ice cream.. YUMMMM.....

You will notice on my menu plan that I was suppossed to have that Tues. night. Well, like I said,.. sometimes.... something will happen to change my plans! lol!

I love to cook & entertain. We don't do enough of that because we are so busy. I plan on slowing down a bit once we get back into a routine when school starts back next week.

Thanks Mema, Nana, & Papa for coming to visit! We had a Great TIME! "Y'all come back now.. ya hear!" :)

Menu Plan

2009-08-11T12:47:00.004-04:00

I REALLY do LOVE Menu planning! It makes my life so much easier! I don't wonder around all day thinking "What shall I fix tonight?". Many of you have "been there & done that".. so you know what I'm talking about!
I don't have to think but, once a week, & GET THIS.. I ONLY HAVE TO GO THE THE GROCERY STORE ONCE A WEEK & SOMETIMES 1 EVERY 2WKS!!! How cool is that?! Now, who loves the grocery store?!! I must confess, I do not!

Here's what I do.. usually one Sat. or Sun. I sit down & plan out that week.. what I'm going to cook. I have made my VERY own little notebook with the help of this AWESOME site! www.organizedhome.com I love it! It has all sorts of print outs that are FREE, like shopping list, monthly menu calendars, weekly menu planners,house work list, pantry inventories list... it goes on & On!! Now, I have no excuse for not being organized!

I LOVE the pantry inventory list! It encourages you to GET in that pantry and LOOK to see WHAT you HAVE! Oh, .. the times I buy something.. and then slide it in the pantry for it to SIT there for months! lol!! You know what I'm talking about! ;)

I plan out my menu, then I make a shopping list for EXACTLY what I need to get! You would NOT believe how much money you will save by doing this! I check my pantry FIRST, to see if I already have what I need. Then the list begins!
When I get to the store... "I ONLY BUY WHAT IS ON MY LIST!" It helps to NOT have the kids OR the Husband with you .. when you shop! LOL!

I come home & put my groceries up & stick to my menu. Now, sometimes.. like this week, I had to change some things around. I don't freak out if this happens.. I go with the flow, change it & move on.

I have also noticed that my family is much happier. They love the fact that I fix special meals just for them to enjoy! I try to find meals that are "kid friendly" which is sometimes hard to do. I found one this week that I fixed on Sat. that the kids really enjoyed. I.. for the FIRST time ever.. cooked Thai Food!

I fixed Pork Satay with a hot & spicy Peanut Butter sauce to dip it in. (I should note.. that the kids did not like the sauce.. oh,.. but Momma did!) We also took the meal time to educate our children about where Thai food comes from. Matt got the globe & we showed them how far it was from home & we talked about the missionaries there. It was great family time!!!!! You guys have GOT to do this!!

Here is the recipe, I hope you enjoy!

Pork Satay

1/3 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce

2green onions, sliced

3Tbsp. brown sugar

3Tbsp. minced fresh cilantro

3Tbsp. Thai chili sauce

2 Tbsp. minced garlic

1 lb. pork tenderloin, cut into 1/4-in slices

1/3 cup creamy peanut butter

3 Tbsp. hot water

2 tsp. lime juice

*In a small bowl, combine the 1st seven ingredients. Set aside 1/4 cup for dipping sauce. Pour remaining sauce into a large resealable plastic bag; add the pork. Seal bag & turn coat; refrigerate for 30 mins.

*Drain & discard marinade. Thread pork slices onto 20 metal or soaked wooden skewers. Place skewers on a greased baking pan. Broil 3-4 min. on each side of until meat juices run clear.

*Meanwhile, for sauce, combine peanut butter and water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir in lime juice and reserved soy sauce mixture. Serve with skewers.

My Menu this week:

Monday: Chicken & Dumplings, salad, biscuits

Tuesday: Parmesan Cornflake chicken, Broccoli & cheese, rice

Wednesday: Lima Beans, Rice, ham (fixed in crock pot!.. Easy Peasy for church night)

Thursday: Leftovers

Friday: Pizza with friends!

Sorry....No photograhs...

2009-08-09T22:44:00.006-04:00

Well, so much for the pictures of McKenna with her ears pierced...

So,... we leave the house with McKenna PUMPED UP and ready for the whole "ear piercing" thing. She is so excited. We arrive at the store only to find out that only 1 of the people were there to do the piercing and we wanted them done at the same time.. so Kenna wouldn't change her mind after the first one! lol!

We leave and said we would come back after lunch when the other person arrives so we could do it. As we were in Wal-mart.. McKenna looks up at me and says..

"Momma, I don't think I want my ears pierced today"

"What?!" But, that's why we came to town.. was so you could get this done, sweetie." I said

Then.. starts the crying.. the TEARS... &.. "I'm just a little afraid Momma" she says

:)

Well, I scooped her up & said.. "Don't worry .. we'll get it done one day when you are ready."

One thing is for sure................................. we won't have to ever worry about McKenna coming home looking like this:

LOL!

"LAWD Have MERCY!".....

Hellloooo out there..

2009-08-08T09:09:00.003-04:00

If any still reads this thing.. I don't know why you would.. I have been a terrible blogger lately! Seriously.. on both sides, I can't even find the time to comment! I know.. awful!
My husband woke up in the middle of the night Wed. with severe SEVERE pain. I took him to the Dr. (as we expected it was a kidney stone) first thing Thurs. morning. He was trying to avoid an emergency room visit like last time 2yrs. ago. When they did the CT scan, the Dr. said it was "rather large" & he suggested surgery. SURGERY?! What?!
So, at 12 on Thurs. Matt had laser surgery to zap the stone, & at 1:45 I got to see the tiny baby.. well, a piece of the baby! lol! I teased him and said we were 2 for 2 now, because many people say the pain.. is equivalent to labor pains.. however, I've had some say the stone was worse! GEESH!
Matt came home the same day & I've been taking care of him.. and the 3 kiddo's who are going CRAZY.. inside the house! The heat keeps us in, that & the TALL grass in our back yard! ;) Bless his heart.. I told him NOT to worry about it until he gets better! Looks like .. I might get on a lawn mower today!
I wanted to say too, that I finally finished my series of books! YAY! 'Bout time! I wanted to recommend them again to all you readers out there.. they were SOOO good!

Lowlands of Scotland Series, Vols 1-2

By Liz Curtis Higgs

In the pastoral 18th-century Scottish Lowlands, two brothers, Jamie and Evan McKie, seek their father's blessing and inheritance. Which one will receive it? And will gentle Leana or her bonny sister Rose receive the love of the chosen one? These unforgettable stories of entwined lives, passion, faithfulness, heartache, and redemption parallel the biblical accounts of Jacob, Esau, Rachel, and Leah. Approx. 460 pages each, two softcovers from Waterbrook.

Whence Came a Prince, Lowlands of Scotland Series #3

By Liz Curtis Higgs

Travel back to eighteenth-century Scotland for Jamie's long-awaited return to his ancestral home--a harrowing journey that tests the depth of his courage, the strength of his sword, and the tenacity of his vow to honor the Almighty at any cost.

Jamie faces a perilous journey of the heart as well, for the two women he loves, Leana and Rose, each stake a tender claim on his affections.

You will love these!! I promise!
Stay tunned... McKenna is getting her ears pierced today!!!!! Finally! YAY! & .. Yes, I will have pictures for that!
Have a Great Day!

Cherokee 2009

2009-08-01T21:29:00.002-04:00

We're headed out!

2009-07-31T09:28:00.002-04:00

Every year, FCA has an FCA staff retreat & this year our destination is Lake Junaluska, N.C.!! We are packed and ready.., dogs are in the kennel, movie rentals in the van for the kiddo's, camera ready.. HERE we come!

I'm ready to take the kids to Cherokee! I think they will love it! McKenna keeps asking.. "Momma... there are REAL Indians?"

LOL!! Silly girl!! I can't wait to take them & see their little faces lite up!

Catch you guys later!!!! Hopefully I'll be able to post.. ?? Hopefully!

Have a Great Weekend & oh, if you're from GA.. don't spend too much money this weekend.. for TAX FREE weekend!! YAHOO!!!

I know.. I don't plan on it either.. LOL!!!!

The Braves...

2009-07-25T09:58:00.004-04:00

Broughton & I went to our very first Braves game on Thursday! We went with our church youth group & had a Blast... although The Braves lost...we still made the best of it!!

If only we had our light sabers........

Small Monogramed bags

2009-07-24T09:09:00.002-04:00

Here is one of the monogramming projects that I have recently done. They are little personal hygiene bags. I originally planned on these bags to hold a child/adult toothbrush & toothpaste. However, when I made one for a friend of ours who is 13, she said she wanted to keep her hairbrush in it! Great IDEA Joy! Then I made one for her little sister and little brother & Clayton(her little bro) keeps his DS in his! So, really you could put anything in it.

You could also use it for this....

I will be selling these for $12.00 plus the monogramming.

These are made out of washcloths.. so whatever color you would like... I can make it!

I will be making more, so that you can see the different colors and fonts that I have. Right now, I'm working on initial fonts!

If you would like to place an order, email me @

keishalynn1@yahoo.com

*In your email, let me know what colors you are looking for.

I'm just NOT ready....

2009-07-20T20:42:00.003-04:00

My baby girl starts school in just a few short weeks! I HATE this! What is wrong with me? I know I'm gonna cry....

bawl.......

then... cry some more..

AW.. .......HECK.. I'm crying NOW just thinking about it!

She told me again for the 100th time.....

"Momma I can't WAIT for school to start!"

Then she says..

"Momma when I go to school... then Faith goes to school... you'll be at home by yourself!"

WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!

When did she grow up?... When did she become SO smart?..

Shoot.. she don't need no stinking school...

Maybe..?? we could skip Kindergarten..????????????

WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Tiger shoes!

2009-07-18T08:26:00.002-04:00

The girls spent some time with their Gran on Thursday while we took Broughton to see Transformers. Great Movie.. Bad language. Why do they have to have such potty mouths?

Anyway.. we picked the girls up and they had found some shoes that belonged to their Big Daddy. They fought over the shoes so Gran decided to give them one... a piece. So for the past few days they have been walking around the house like this.....

Is that not hilarious?!!!! I thought so!

I got H...I...G...H... hopes...

2009-07-13T11:00:00.004-04:00

Yep, that's what I got for this week. Last week, after coming back home from vacation I had so much to do that I was a little overwhelmed. Here is just a high light of my week:

~ Faith started her First day of swimming lessons every morning for 6 straight days

~Faith had her first photo shoot.. (which turned out AWESOME!) I will share the photo site later!

~Picked peas on Monday afternoon until 9:00PM

~then.. shelled peas for the next 3 DAYS! I will add a THANK you to a Special M-I-L who helped do most of the work!

~Got a CRAZY "wild hair" and decided to buy 2 boxes of fresh tomatoes to put up... which was READY to do on Friday!

~My Papa had the unexpected surgery on Mon.. and then was released on Thurs. afternoon.. which meant.. I WANTED TO GO VISIT my Papa for the weekend!

~Left for Bax. on Friday (had to pack 3 kids, hubs and me)

~Came back on on Sat. night had to have a washing Frenzy cuz,.. We were ALL LOW on underwear! (yeah, I know.. might be TMI (too much info) but,.. HEY, its the TRUTH)

~Church on Sunday, Teach on Sunday night

~ One Big Grocery store trip cuz,.. we were also LOW on Grub!

Needless to say I'M TIRED! I also think I still had vacation brain! It takes awhile to get your mind back to the Grind! lol!

So. ... this week! I got too..

~Finish re-designing a blog... or two

~Clean a Nasty, Bad HOUSE!

~catch up on some washing

~pick out some pictures from Faith's photo shoot(which is gonna take hours!)

~finish up swimming lessons

~Get started on some monogramming projects (hope to have pictures for you too look at!)

~Make some bows for some special little girls

Oh! and how can I forget....

~Catch up on All my blogging buddies!!!!!!! I miss YALL!

And because I HAVE to share Pictures... here are a few from Faith's 1st swim lesson! She is my little Mermaid! I love her so!!!

Mission Kenya!!

2009-07-09T21:45:00.003-04:00

Want a Blessing?.... Check out this site! Click on picture to go to site. I have been just in AWE Everyday of God and His Goodness!!!!!!

This is the team from our church in AFRICA! I'm just so incredibly proud of them & very JEALOUS all at the same time!! LOL!

Just wishing I was there.....

Update on my Papa

2009-07-09T08:37:00.003-04:00

You guys are THE best. It brought me to tears to see the prayers that went up for my Papa! Thank you.. Thank you.. Thank you!!!

I am happy and BLESSED to say.. he is doing better. He came through surgery fine, and is still in the hospital today. He is hoping to be released today. I am hoping they will keep him as long they can! He is a VERY active 80 year old Papa... If you know what I mean. He HAS to be in the garden,... fishing... you name it! lol! He still drives the SCHOOL BUS!! Yep, you read that right! And after almost 16 years... he even got a BRAND new bus for this year! He is very excited & ready to start. We are just hoping he doesn't over do it .. this time.

Once again.. THANK YOU to ALL of you .. my Precious Friends ..for praying for him.. & Please continue to pray for his recovery. I love you ALL!

Please Pray.....

2009-07-06T15:55:00.002-04:00

Please pray for my Papa. He is in surgery right now. He had a procedure done about a month ago and has had some complications from the procedure. He has had fever, and chills. He had a Dr. appointment today.. they decided to keep him and do surgery AGAIN and clean the wound out. PLEASE PRAY for God's healing!!!!

I know HE is our "Jehovah Rapha".. the ONE who heals!!! Please pray with me.

The Big Catch & Crabbing

2009-07-01T15:38:00.002-04:00

The men went fishing and look what Matt caught...

Fun.. fun.. I think he was just glad he didn't hurl out at sea! lol!

The guys also enjoy hanging out and playing cards.. well,.. Dora The Explorer cards that is.

We are still here and having a ball! We have really enjoyed the beach! Here is our schedule:

-sleep as late as you want or as long as 5 kids will let you

-breakfast..coffee for grown ups

-put on bathing suit

-go to beach

-come in for lunch

-rest

-back to beach or the pool

Don'tcha just LOVE it?!!! lol! I DO!

It was cloudy and overcast yesterday so we took the kids to Panama City & went to the movies! We saw the movie "Up" in 3D. It was so cute!

Here is what the kids love to do .. & can hardly wait for dusk. They get their flash lights, buckets & nets.. and they go crabbing. They shine the light on the ghost crabs and catch'em in the nets & let'me tell ya.. these little boogers and move FAST! But.. not as fast as me... I DO NOT.. "heart" them.. ;)

But secretly,.. the men love it more.. TEE HEE!!

** Please know that no crabs were hurt (at least.. not that we know of) during this crabbing episode.

My first day at the Beach!

2009-06-28T17:56:00.007-04:00

Hola' Everybody! It's me Faith.. posting from Mexico Beach! No, we're not in Mexico... however, Momma thought that at first. We're at the Florida pan handle. I just wanted everyone to see my first pictures at the beach and what I thought about it all!

I... .. "heart" the BEACH VERY,.. VERY Much!

I love the way it feels between my toes...

I love the way it feels between my fingers....

&... Oh... My.... Word.. the SAND....

It's Just like a my Sand box @ home.. only .. BETTER! I even get to catch the water in my watering can and MIX the water and the sand! It is SOO cool! I can't believe momma is letting me do this here... but, she is. She even helped me build a sand castle today!!

McKenna loves the water too.. except, she likes to lay out under the tent too!

Here she is... gabbing with Leighton. Those two LOVE to talk! ;)

But not ME! Nope.. nope .. I love this Boogie Board thing.. & I'm getting the hang of it too!

My Big Brother let me use his boogie board...& Daddy showed me how.

Aw...................................

This is the Life!

Thanks for checking in on us Walker's! Momma said to tell you guys.. not to be looking for any pictures of her.. in her bathing suit.. OH.. NO.. NO! I'll see if I can post more later! Aren't you impressed that I know how to Blog?..

Got that from Momma!