Wild Wednesday

Wow what a week already. So much has been going on lately and its been a bit overwhelming, but I think I hit a breaking point! This post is probably going to be lots of rambling so bear with me!!

If your remember a few weeks ago I was pretty sick and ended up back and forth between doctors...hundreds of dollars later, im still having to deal with after effects! I went back to the doc yesterday and when the nurse laid out five big tubes (lab work) my jaw dropped. I said "Um, those arent all for me right?" Her response, needless to say, was NOT what I wanted to her. "Well your not going to fill them all the way up, right?" FAIL. And of course as im trying to get myself side tracked from what was being shoved into my arm, she proceeds to ask about my job and what a typical night is like. All I could think of at this point was what I have had to do the past few nights....seeing the phlebotomist poke and prod clients over and over. Yea, not what I wanted to think of at that moment! The nurse seemed real interested though and the conversation took off. I was trying not to get sick! Dont you just hate that whole thought process thing. Your trying to keep your mind off something that is really sickening, disturbing, ect...yet that seems to be the only thing you CAN think of! Sheeshhhh! So yea, as she is still filling those darn things up five minutes later all I can think of is that... over and over and over. Of course I cant even think of the fact that each of those viles along with the paper in front me that has check marks all over it is ultimately equivalent to hundreds of dollars. That is until I reach the front desk to check out. Then the vicious cycle starts all over again and its another sickening and disturbing thought! I suppose that its still a small price to pay for having a healthy and happy life and being able to have that care even available! Ha!

Im saving the best for last in case your wondering how much of this rambling you have to read and whether its even worth it! HA.

Okay, so I LOVE my job...I really do! How great is that? Everyone continues to ask how long I will stay due to the schedule. My reply... "for as long as they will let me!" Working the night shift definately has its pros and cons. The only thing that really is hard for me is getting in enough sleep and adjusting that schedule. Today was the first time in two weeks that I was able to sleep more than four solid hours. It was awesome! I enjoy knowing that if there is something going on in the middle of the day and I want to participate, I can. It comes at a price, but nonetheless I still have the option to do things during the day and not have to worry about taking time off. Plus, I cant think of a more rewarding job! Its very humbling and the clients are absolutely wonderful. Its like having a second family for sure.

I have to throw the fact that my 20th birthday is coming up this weekend!! Im pretty excited to see twenty along with being VERY thankful as well. Thank God for giving me another year and a new "number" to see! Im blessed...I really am.

Im learning so much about my camera and its really paying off. Im pretty pleased with it and cant wait to learn more. There has been ALOT going on related to this subject as well (photography). I have been filling up the calender pretty quick here lately, whoo hoo! It hasnt been all fine and dandy though. Thankfully...becasue it keeps me on my toes =P I got some rather shocking news yesterday... News that I really could have done without and pretty much rocked my world, not in the good way though. You know, just like any human being, I love encouragement, praise, and feedback... However, there is something I love even more. Are you thinking im conceded yet?! Ha. What I love even more though is having someone be so disrepspectful and rude as to tell you that you know nothing about your own work, are not original, nor are you even good at what you do. Someone who is supposed to be your friend at that. Why do I love that? Because it makes me work ten times harder at what I do and appreciate it even more so. Envy and jealousy are nasty things and unfortuantely it can really take hold of a person in a bad kind of way. Never in my life did I think the people I called my friends would also be the people to hurt me the most and hate that I have pursued my dreams. Yet, there is power in genuine forgiveness and this I understand. I will tell you that this photography business of mine has really showed me who my friends are. I have some really amazing friends and family and they have been so encouraging through everything. Despite having some issues this week...im incredibly blessed and happy to be where im at with my business and things will continue to look up as long as I keep God, family, and my friends by myside. Oh and of course I cant forget to mention that after those "issues" I got a call discussing a business proposal and partner!!! So stay posted for that news soon =) God sure works in mysterious ways and for that im beyond thankful. I cant stress enough the saying im sure many of us have heard- "IF GOD BROUGHT ME TO IT, HE WILL TAKE ME THROUGH IT." Amen!!!

I owe all of you who have been there for me, through good & bad, a huge thank you! May God bless each and every single one of you through every single waking day to come. Its you all and God who keep me going each & every day and without that I wouldnt be half the person I have become nor would I have accomplishing what I have. Because of you I have faith. I love you all!

Now the photo's for tonights post are irrelavent to my ramblings, but they are from this weekend! Ha.

Enjoy!

If you only knew who my Dad was talking to on MY phone! HA!

I loved seeing this Sunday!! Mom starting the garden-Cant wait!

Love my Mama!

VTX 1800

Time to ride.

What a beautiful day and wonderful Dad!

"We have to make our own mistakes. We have to learn our own lesson. We have to swift today’s possibility under tomorrow’s rug until we can’t anymore. Until we finally understand for ourselves what Benjamin Franklin meant. That knowing is better than wondering, that waking is better than sleeping and that even the biggest failure even the worst mistake beat the heck out of never trying."

Road Trip

Yesterday afternoon a friend and I took a mini road trip to Lake Ft. Smith. I was so incredibly anxious to get out and enjoy the weather this weekend (even without having any sleep from working nights ha.). I believe we had temperatures in the lower sixties yesterday and todays high was seventy-two!!! I even broke out the flip-flops this weekend. Lets just hope the weather is going to stay nice like this!

Up above the lake.

B & W Love.

Spiders were everywhere.

Visitor Center

Hope everyone enjoyed these!

“It is always the simple things that change our lives. And these things never happen when you are looking for them to happen. Life will reveal answers at the pace life wishes to do so. You feel like running, but life is on a stroll. This is how God does things.”

Sunshine

Seeing the sunshine today made me a happy girl. Aside from the sun though.... I did recieve one, of the two, anticipated phone calls I was expecting today. Along with, spending a nice & pleasant day out riding the backroads with my Daddy! Im thankful for those days with my Dad. Funny how me and him can fight all week long, but the second its just me & him and were out doing something...we get along great! So with the wonderful weather we had today we were bound to get out and do something....and riding we went. I would say all in all it was a great day! And you know me...of course "a" camera had to come with me while riding.

Close to the top

It was so clear today!

Thompson Cut-its still really high for this time of year.

At least its clear though!

I was disappointed with this purchase at first, but its proved its worthiness!

It was moving pretty good.

The tree grew right around the wire!!!

A great end to the day!

For everything there is a season,
And a time for every matter under heaven:

A time to be born, and a time to die;

A time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;

A time to kill, and a time to heal;

A time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh;

A time to mourn, and a time to dance;

A time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together;

A time to embrace, And a time to refrain from embracing;

A time to seek, and a time to lose;

A time to keep, and a time to throw away;

A time to tear, and a time to sew;

A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

A time to love, and a time to hate,

A time for war, and a time for peace.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

Have a great and sunny weekend!!!

What about you?

I made a comment the other day online about what im looking forward to...

"Cant wait for some warmer weather. The smell of fresh cut grass...yea sounds pretty awesome to me! I miss that smell. Ha."

Aw there are so many things im really anxious to see/smell/hear this spring and summer! It makes me smile to even think of the thought of warmer weather. Its been a LONG winter! Here is a list of those things that I miss all too much!

Fresh cut grass

Waking up early in the morning on the lake!

Smells from the grill

SUNSHINE

Right after it rains!

Kids splashing in the pool

The Garden!

Laying out at night!

Spring & summer COLORS!!!

Pictures =)

Camping preparation

Hot Dogs ha.

Smell of sunscreen

Gosh I could just go on and on! Ha.

The sun did actually make an appearance today =)

Now only if there were green grass, red flowers, and leaves on the trees!

So what about you? What things are you guys looking forward to with warmer weather...I want to know so I can drool some more and spend more time becoming impatient! HA.

"Life is full of beauty. Notice it. Notice the bumble bee, the small child, and the smiling faces. Smell the rain, and feel the wind. Live your life to the fullest potential, and fight for your dreams."

Its time for something...

Ohhh. What kind of something you ask!

Well thats the catch... =)

I want to try something new on here, but need ideas! Yikes! Im so bad at this because there are a million things I could think of and cant decide. However, I would like to keep it related to my photography and do a designated day-of-the-week type deal! So any and all suggestions would be great. I would love to hear what my followers think and want!

I have been blessed with a wonderful weekend after this past long horrible nightmare-ish week! Met up with a long lost friend Friday night for dinner, followed by baby shower planning Saturday morning for one of my best friends, lunch with another old friend from school (hadnt seen this person in years!), and a "party" that night!!! I say party with quotations because I dont really party much haha. My Sister sells Scentsy, Kourtney sells Jeans & Things, and Haley sells bows & tutus... So they have these "parties" with all the girls who sell their stuff and its just really great for everyone to get out and do some shopping, if you will, while just having a casual meeting place! Plus, now that I have my business cards (that I keep forgetting at home), I can kind of advertise and get my name out to everyone. All around its awesome! As for my Sunday, it was relaxing. I made a phone call that I had been debating about making for awhile. I guess partly because I was afraid of what I might find out. All aside...I made the call. Im happy I finally did because at least there was no horrible tragic news... I wont say its exactly what I wanted to hear as far as other stuff, but at least I called. That, at least, makes me feel more content. The rest is out of my hands! Im sure you all are completely confused, but it happens ha. =)

"Enjoy your own life without comparing it with that of another."

Idol

Now what kind of post would this be if I didnt mention American Idol??

Yep. Thats what I look forward too during the week anymore. Ha. SO Kris Allen from right here in this great state just performed and WOW! He really is great. I love how genuine he is. Thats a true performer and wonderful person right there. Go Kris! That video they did in the background from Haiti was so sad though. I made the comment of wanting a Haiti baby after watching. PRAY. PRAY. PRAY for those people. As for the idols this season... Im very partial to Big Mike, Casey, and Lee-in that order =) Oh I know... What about the girls Miss. Winters?? Yea, no! Im not really crazy about any of them this year. Sorry!

Other new news...

My new job is okay. A little unorganized, but it happens. Not really looking forward to night shift, but yes, that too happens! Im just happy to have a job all-in-all. I know, so negative haha. Remember though...I have been super sick so its excusable. Ha. Oh and that too is getting a little better with the medicine.

Prayers & Happiness

Two things a person cant live without.

Im sure many of you have read the serenity prayer...
God grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change
Courage to change the things I can
And the Wisdom to know the difference

I love it. Its powerful when really applied. I bought a book when I was still living in Texas a month ago that was based upon the serenity prayer. Lets just everyone needs to read it! "The Wisdom To Know The Difference" by Eileen Flanagan.

Ive been pretty sick lately and really exhausted, but I have felt bad for neglecting my blog...so here I am! So much has been going on (like always ha.) and its so easy to lose focus especially right now. Im not going to let that happen, even if I do feel sick! I just want to say please be praying for many of my friends and family as they all go through their own struggles too.

As for business... Yes, thats right business gets a big part of the blog now ha. Were all waiting on warmer weather. Spring to be exact. So hurry and get here! The business cards I designed finally came in and they look awesome. Onto the website... Its done and ready to go now just to muster up the energy of being on the phone with tech support to get it published. Wish me luck and stay posted for the link!!!

“You need to be aware of what others are doing, applaud their efforts, acknowledge their successes, and encourage them in their pursuits. When we all help one another, everybody wins.”

Daisy daisy

I forgot to add some pictures from a shoot we did a few days ago before the tutu pics! And here these are some of my favorites, what was I thinking?! Anyways here they are hope you enjoy!

Jaicee will be here in 9 weeks!!!

Sweet =)

Baby Jaicee

They love her SO much already!

"The love of a family is life's greatest blessing"

Next step

I have already made a post for today, but I have to add to it...

I just ordered my business cards and am beyond excited! I should have them in two weeks or so =) They looked great after I designed them so I hope they look even better in my hands ha.

Have a great week everyone!!

The day

 Well "that day" came and went, yes the one some of us completely dread and some of us just cant wait to see. Valentines Day. My views on it...not much! Im not really into the whole idea of it much these days. I dont really have anything against and actually get quite excited for my friends and family on this day because I know there is always some story to come from it. Minus one particular family member. I wish I could change that for her, but all in due time she will have a wonderful story to tell again! How did I spend yesterday? Doing what I live and giving a gift to myself! I did another photo shoot with Cacee. Photography is something I really enjoy and to hear that it is so appreciated by not only Cacee meant so much to me. It really was appreciated and sentimental for them. How amazing is that knowing that I get to be part of that and this journey for them as well! I really had a wonderful Valentines Day with myself and friends Ha.

Here are a few shots from the Valentines shoot I did Saturday evening! Hope you enjoy!

Cacee

Cacee

Cacee

"The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, the education, the money, than circumstances, than failure, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company... a church... a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past... we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so it is with you... we are in charge of our Attitudes."

Oh the joys

I realized today that even though I have done better than I thought with keeping on here...I have been forgetting my to put up the "quote of the day," oops! Of course, you know me, I already have good excuses for that =P

This week has consisted of a few photography sessions with a really good friend of mine and her family. I did a session with her and Jason and little Jaicee who will be here April 26. Early this week I also did some with her and her boys. They are so much fun to be around! Aside from doing pictures and edting I was also working on paperwork for my job. It was kind of ridiculous, just saying! All because I lived out of state for a few months... They require shots, finger prints, and proof of residency now. At least they really make sure they know who they're hiring I suppose! Oh and yes, there is much more thats happened this week, but I will just give a huge smile on those things and keep everyone wondering!! =)

Tomorrow was going to consist of a session with Mom and Son, but I think were holding off due to moving-keep checking back though for those pictures though because it will still be taking place very soon, along with a maternity session! Oh and too replace tomorrows original plan Ms. Cacee and I will be doing another maternity session that im very excited about!!

“We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have.”

Cacee & Blayden

Cacee

Cacee & Grayson

Cacee

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!!!

Baby Bump

Last night I went to sleep seeing just the grass and no snow... This morning I wake up...and LOTS of snow, again. I cant say that I real happy to see that again. Although it was pretty, I was just really ready to move right on into spring. So I got around, warmed up the car, swept off the snow with the broom, and headed to my interview! Which, by the way, went superb I might add =) After that I decided to start heading back out to my parents since the weather was supposed to keep on getting worse. Not long after I got home one of my best friends gave me a call wanting to try and get some "baby bump" pictures while it was snowing. I was a bit skeptical, but VERY glad they all came out to get me and take pictures. We had so much fun and they really make a great looking family! I cant wait to do more of these maternity pictures!!! Enjoy =)

Jason, Cacee, Jaicee (7 months)

I think Jaicee was moving around in this one!

Aren't they just cute?!

So sweet =)

She makes pregnancy look perfect!

Drop In & Shop

Today was the "Drop In & Shop" in Huntsville that my Sister hosted. There were about ten different vendors, all women except for one of the husbands who also showed up with English Bulldog puppies =) That was the highlight of the morning of course! It really was a blast and everyone had such fun stuff there to spend money on haha. My only let down...I didnt take my camera. I know, I know..what was I thinking. Oh well. I did try to beg Tyler for a puppy most of the morning. No luck their either! Of course I had to buy something this though so I bought Scentsy car tins from my Sister and a head band and flower that attaches to it. So cute!! The head band, for a baby of course =) I did at least take a picture of the very cute head band once I got home. Hope everyone enjoys! Have a great weekend!

There were LOTS to choose from or mix and match!

Love it =)

Oh Boy...

Dear Conscience,

You really stink sometimes, you know that? I just want to say "wtf" is that okay?! How can you feel so good about keeping others secrets and confessions (funny or serious) yet when it comes to your own...you just HAVE to tell someone?! Whats the deal with that! So from now on just know that most days...I want you to go away. Thats right consciounce...I want you to go away (once in awhile!).

Yours truely,
Amber

Now that I got that off my chest can I just say that 2010 is really going to be quite the ride. Yes, there have been some set-backs already, but all in all I can still say each day is just as exciting and im still happy. Gotta count for something right?! I think so =) So much is taking place already and what better way to experience the new year than having photo's to capture all the new things!!! Keep checking to see new posts & pictures!

Bad idea #2. You could say three days later im still hurting after falling continuously!

Snow Day

I finally timed it right with being back home and getting to see all the snow and ice! Its been so pretty even though its pretty chilly. When I first heard about the snow we were gonna be getting I instantly thought about all the pictures I was going to get to take! But of course...my camera decided to take a "nap" on that idea. Even though I had only had it for three weeks something still managed to go wrong with it. I did have a back up though (not the best at all) but it did work for some pictures!

This was the first part of the storm that came...not much snow at this point, but the ice sure was pretty!

Solid Ice-I dont think this one moved all weekend!

Do I dare in these shoes? Better not.

"Sunshine is delicious, rain is refreshing, wind braces us up, snow is exhilarating; there is really no such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather."

Editor

I need a good photo editor! Im starting to get fed up now..grr. I have tried all the "free" programs and they are a nightmare. Im not sure what I used to use, but I obviously dont have it now or I wouldnt be complaining! Help!! This is something I have been kind of putting off for a few weeks now and I was thinking today, "Hey if were supposed to have a major winter storm and im going to be stuck at the house this would be something to motivate me for more pictures"...gosh I was being naive!! Anyways, I came across some pictures I took of my best friend and her man and thought I would play around with em' some and try to find a good program. Not much luck yet though. I did love the pictures on the railroad and will def. have to go back with others to get some fun shots in! Hope you enjoy this one =)

Ashley & Nick

“We are so often caught up in our destination that we forget to appreciate the journey, especially the goodness of the people we meet on the way. Appreciation is a wonderful feeling, don't overlook it.”

Faith

I dont have much to really say after all the events of the past three days. Its been hectic. I am back in Arkansas with friends and family. Fortunately. It was a sudden and much needed move. Im happy to be back and so thankful that the second I arrived I had friends right by my side and people who love and respect me. I have faith that things will continue to look as long as some people can move on with their lives and act like adults about all of this. I have faith that the truth will come out and things will straighten out. And...I have faith in God that he will continue to be my back bone and support through everything even those who have brought this on. There are so many things I could say right now, but I realize that its not going to matter a week from now. So, like I have said all along "one DAY at a TIME." Keep checking back for new pictures...there will be many taken soon!!

Soon to be that time...

Im such a sucker for salsa. I LOVE it! I love summer time just as much because that means Mom plants and plays...and whatever else you do in the garden, like making yummy home-made salsa! Usually I dont get real worked up about the actual garden part (just not my thing) but this year seems to be different. I really am excited to get the chance of helping out and seeing what all goes into, plus what comes out-salsa =) I didnt have any other pictures tonight that put as much of a smile on face as this one. So even though summer isn't quite here, im still getting geared up for it and all the precious time that will be spent with family and friends.

As far as any new "news" goes... Im heart broken over the tragedy and chaos of what is happening in Haiti. I woke up today hearing of ANOTHER earth quake there. Can these people not catch a break?? I really can say that I felt SO incredibly guilty waking up with a roof over my head, a place to sleep safely & comfortably, plenty of food in the fridge, and all the water I could need right out of the faucet. Many Haitians are fighting for their lives because they cant even get water right now. Makes you stop and take a real good look at we do have. Just doesn't seem right getting to enjoy all these things while there are people so much more deserving. Keep praying for them. Its going to be a long recovery for Haiti and everyone there.

More news... While Jay went to Arkansas this morning, I got ready for work. Little did I know that while I planned on having a nice relaxing quiet night, I would actually end up taking cover with others in our local Wal-Mart around the dressing rooms. Gotta love the weather. I didnt even know that we were expecting bad weather. No clue! Once I heard all the siruns and tornado reports (all moving to my area) I realized it wasn't good. I was driving down the road trying to get time sheets dropped off when more siruns went off and the rain came down harder. I'll admit I kind of panicked! Usually I love storms, but not when im completely by myself and that my "house" is an upstairs apartment. So just like everyone else I stopped off at the closest Wal-Mart and booked it inside just as they were locking the doors and telling all of us to take cover. Long story short..Im back home now and safe! Hopefully no more tornados though while im sleeping.

Last but not least... Im so BLESSED to have the wonderful family and  true friends that are in my life!

That sums it all up =)

Solution

Do you think this is a good solution??

I found the answer today. The answer to what you ask. Well, if you read my previous post then you know what im talking about! Ah yes...im still trying to put pieces together as to getting to Haiti. (So the air balloon is my solution!) I have been in contact with a woman who runs an organization near the Port and has turned the orphanage into a "clinic" for the wounded children. She desperatley needs help. Medical assistance to aid her in helping all of these children who are coming in. Its so hard knowing that although I can speak to this woman via e-mail there isn't much else I can do at the second. I could fly down there to help her since she is affliated with Missionary Flights International, but first they have to get the ground clearance and support. She isnt sure how long this is going to take-hours, days, weeks...who knows. So we are waiting right now, meanwhile still communicating on everything that IS taking place though. Keep praying for her and all the other Haitians as well as myself in hopes that I can help at least this organization, and soon.

The picture of the hot air balloon was taken outside on my balcony, here in Longview! There were two other ones also. I was lucky to get the two pictures that I did take. They were getting farther and farther away. Maybe they are going to Haiti as well. One could only wish. So I will keep wishing until I hear anything else!

Haiti Relief Effort

No pictures today. Sorry! I have been online for quite some time now (within the last few days) trying desperately to find out who is sending medical personnel to Haiti. Its so hard to see all the pictures through the media of what these people are going through right now. Its just as hard to be sitting here knowing that I have the experience and knowledge that could be assisting those who are injured or anything else, yet I cant seem to be there. Dont think im not applying like crazy though with all different types of organizations along with making millions of calls. I have applied with the NDMS, IMC, MFI, and American Jet's Air Ambulance's. Just to name a few...the last is quite long, and im sure it will only continue to grow for me as Haiti continues through this tragic event. So, not only am I trying to apply with these different organizations who are sending qualified volunteers, but also looking at the lists of affliated members. They are so many and so many ways to go about this, but for me its finding the ones that are actually sending the volunteers right now. With the way things are in Port Au Prince it has been a little difficult to land so they are having to find alternate means. Which really isn't much of problem considering everything else, but its just another factor that has some "airlines" afraid to fly at all. Understandably so. I will say though, that the most luck I have had as far as finding a flight was out of Florida. One of the organizations I looked at and had placed a call too is taking any nurses willing to volunteer. Sounded to simple when I first talked to the guy. What they are doing though is actually flying to Haiti picking up the injured and bringing them to the U.S. and while they are making these trips they are taking two to three volunteers at a time with them. He explained to me that as a volunteer, if I were to fly down with him I could stay a few days or longer to help. Then fly back to Florida. I was extremely anxious as he was telling me this because so far its the closest I have gotten to finding a flight and it not being this long ol' process. Its imediate. On the other hand though, he really wanted me to try and find someone or group doing the same here in Texas so that I wouldnt have to drive all the way to Florida. And I have been looking...and looking.........and looking some more. Unfortunately... it doesnt look like Texas is doing much of anything as far as sending volunteers. Its been like trying to find a needle in huge hay stack. I feel very helpless. But...im not giving up...not even close to it. I checked on passports because I knew that would also present a huge hold-up. And to my surprise, I may be able to get one as earlier as two weeks from now. The process would be a little difficult and include me scheduling an appointment in a Dallas office because of the "rush." Thats what these people are there for and set up appoinments for though, in a emergency situation or disaster situation. I think Haiti falls into this category. I encourage everyone to do what they can whether it is donating your time or making a monetary donation. These people need it way more than we could possibly imagine or even need it ourselves right now. If you would like to make monetary donations please do so at these safe & secure sights:

http://www.redcross.org/

http://www.americares.org/

http://www.care.org/

http://www.savethechildren.org/

http://www.haitianministries.org/

 

Thank You & God Bless

Kicked Back

So what do you write about when you dont have anything to really write about? Socks, of course! Just hear me out... Other than the fact that I love my camera and was extremely bored this morning...I really like these socks! If your anything like me, you know what its like to get new socks. A big ol' package of nice, new comfy socks! haha. I have been waiting forever to buy new socks and finally found the ones I used to get, except they now come with cuter colors for the trim, oh and "No nonsense" across the toes...score! Haha.  Thats about it for my excitement & picture of the day! Hope ya enjoyed =)

“True love is like a pair of socks: you gotta have two and they've gotta match.”

Some Day-Thats Right

This was another picture in Bossier City that I took. Some day, yes some day, I will be able to get on that boat and give them all my money! The few times I have been into casinos it didnt play out into my favor, but none the less, it was still fun! Apparently, all the casinos in LA have that "Project 21" mess. Yes, a mess. Ha. I just want to be able to go in and spend some money, drinks aside! Too bad though looks like I will be waiting for a little while longer.

Aside from Sam's Town, looks like I will be heading to Arkansas in February for some much needed "camera-time!" I cant wait =) I have been saying, for quite some time, that you have to spend some to get some. And guess what? It holds true! I knew that if I didnt invest in a camera soon I would be missing out on lots of opportunities. So I got a new camera and here came the opportunities rather quickly! Worth every penny. I told my Mom earlier today "its amazing what a little bit of confidence can do for a person" (along with forkin' out some money ha), but its true. I have been hesitant to really throw myself out there as far as photography goes. Maybe something to do with the thought of failure or just plain ol' disappointment in myself. Either way I have went for alot more in the past few months with photography than I ever have. Im still scared of course...who isnt? Even the best photographers have fears at some point in time im sure! I made a vow though that I would give this whole blogging thing a shot for three months before taking my next step. So far so good!! Plus I accomplished getting a new camera! Someone repeatedly told me that I needed to start focusing on what I wanted to do with this and take baby steps. The funny thing about that was the fact that anyone who knows me, also knows im extremely impatient. It gets me into messes quite often especially when trying to make something of myself with my photo's.  However, after the trillionth time of hearing this I realized that if I ever want to get anywhere thats what its gonna take and with baby steps. Im trying my hardest and along with having more confidence in myself and planning things are going MUCH better! Enjoy & thanks for following! On that note here is the quote for today =)

"Aim for success, not perfection. Never give up your right to be wrong, becuase then you will lose the ability to learn new things and move forward wtih life. Remeber that fear always lurks behind perfectionism. Confronting your fears and allowing yourself the right to be human can paradoxically make yourself a happier and more productive person!"

Mm Mmm Good

This cheesecake was HUGE! I think it was the size of my face for sure. The 1/3 of it that I did it definately felt like much more in my stomach! It was so good though and way worth it. We went to Bossier City, LA today for some pictures, since its only an hour from where we live. I had been told about the Boardwalk and seen pictures of it...looked like a nice place. Leave it to me to find the nicest thing about the it though-Cheesecake!

"The Constitution only guarantees the American people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself."

(I think I caught my happiness today!)

Quote of the Day

I took this picture earlier for a few reasons: 1-My Mother wanted to see pictures I had hung. 2-I was playing around with my new camera. And 3-This is a picture of a picture yes, but more importantly the photo hanging up is one I took. This is the first one I have blown up and hung in my own place! So exciting!

“Our frustration is greater when we have much and want more than when we have nothing and want some. We are less dissatisfied when we lack many things than when we seem to lack but one thing.”

Yee-Haw!

I GOT IT!!! I finally got the camera...yes the camera I have been wanting forever! We have been to Best Buy probably seven times now trying to get the camera, by the way, its a Canon 50D. I have spent much of the afternoon reading up on it, registering, and playing around the house with it. Im so excited to get out and see what its really got =)

2010

Wow! Can ya believe its already 2010? A new year and a new decade! Im pretty excited to see what this year will bring =)

We attended a new church this morning and it was nice. The regular preacher is still on vaca so I think we may go back and see how we like it with the regular one, when he returns. It fealt great to start the new year off in church! It was also really nice to even feel like getting out ( I have been sick for the past week). Yesterday we went out too...not sure if it was smart being outside all day sick, but it was alot of fun! We went to "First Monday" in Canton, Texas. It was an hour drive from where we live. 100 acres of shopping...what could be better, right?! It really was a blast and they do it every month!!! Oh and after we got back from Canton last night I decided to finally make some yummy spinach and artichoke dip! Now, I was a lil disappointed with it because of course I expected it to taste like the restraunts dip, but it didnt =( Oh well though, I will keep trying! So, now we have a butt load of spinach dip...healthy way to start the new year off right?! The only other fun thing that took place this weekend was renting the movie "UP," its a kids movie, but so cute! I loved it!

Aside from the weekend...I have thought alot about this "new" year. We all are guilty of making those new year's resolutions and never sticking to them, right? I thought so. Im very guilty of that! This year just seems like a real new start. Maybe its the fact I started it off some where completely new or that its a new decade or just the fact that I know I have changed. Whatever it is though im super excited and ready to make this year count, for sure. I recieved a fwd email from my Sister and I wanted to share it on here...points out some good things for "new years resolutions." Hope you enjoy it!

2010 - HANDBOOK For A Good Life
Health:

1. Drink plenty of water.
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.
4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy
5. Make time to pray.
6. Play more games
7. Read more books than you did in 2009 .
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day
9. Sleep for 7 hours.
10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk daily. And while you walk, smile.
Personality:

11. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
12. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive
present moment.
13. Don't over do. Keep your limits.
14. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.
16. Dream more while you are awake
17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need..
18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with His/her mistakes of the past. That will ruin
your present happiness.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.
20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that
appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
23. Smile and laugh more.
24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree...

Society:

25. Call your family often.
26. Each day give something good to others.
27. Forgive everyone for everything.
28. Spend time with people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.
29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
30. What other people think of you is none of your business.
31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

Life:

32. Do the right thing!
33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
34. GOD heals everything.
35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change..
36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
37. The best is yet to come..
38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.
39. Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

My personal "theme/goal" for the year: Faith

“Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything requires faith and belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication. Remember all things are possible for those who believe.”