book tour contest reminder

Ok, its not midnight yet so I am still part of the book tour. The author is choosing the best answer and is giving a gift certificate to the restaurant of your choice. I would love someone who reads my blog to win. So head over to her blog and answer the question

http://sprightly-amyanne.blogspot.com/2008/05/blog-tour-for-aj-kieslings-skizzer.html

I will pick my winner tomorrow..

WINNERS ANNOUNCED

Book winner is Special K !!!! # 7 per my WW board friends and since I read my copy I will give the other one away as well so Im drawing a name out of a cup and the other winner is

RMJ from the Seventh Diamond.

(dont forget to email me your addresses)

Dont forget to comment on the blog above to win a gift certificate to a restaurant of your choice by the author!!!!!

Skizzer-Book Tour and review and a contest

Oh my gosh! Another great book! Im thrilled to have been able to read this and recommend it to you!!! I have never read this author but look forward to reading more. SHe really connects with the reader.Love the background ! Anyone who likes a good fiction novel will like this book. I hope hubby will read it next. You know when you have a really clear dream and you can remember details from your dream? This book is that clear. Her details to the story helped paint a wonderful story and it was easy to see the story in your mind.!!!!

You are lucky as well! Not only is there a contest on the book tour site, they gave me another copy to give away! All you have to do is leave a comment on my blog and I will use pick a winner on Thursday afternoon!!!

What's the Most Important Thing You've Ever Lost and Then Found?

A.J. Kiesling will select the winning response based on originality and sizzle!

Buy the book: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0800731409?&camp=212361&creative=383841&linkCode=wss&tag=sprightly-20

A.J. Kiesling's website: http://www.ajkiesling.com/

The book tour schedule can be found here The author is giving away a great prize so head on over there and answer the question

What's the Most Important Thing You've Ever Lost and Then Found?

The author will choose the winner!

This is what the author had to say about the book

The story centers on two sisters, Claire (the main character) and Becca, her younger sibling. At the outset, Becca has disappeared--up and leaving her husband with just a cursory note offering no real explanation. Claire drives to North Carolina to pursue a hunch that Becca might have fled to the town where they grew up, perhaps taking refuge with their elderly Aunt Jess. She stops at a place where they used to play as children—an old estate the local kids called haunted—and finds a letter addressed to "Skizzer" inside a sister-secret box she and Becca left there more than twenty years earlier. The letter says "something both terrible and wonderful has happened" and that Becca needs time to herself, urging Claire not to look for her. But of course that's exactly what Claire and her distraught brother-in-law do. The story weaves between the present and the past through flashbacks to the girls' growing up years in North Carolina. The search for Becca ultimately takes Claire and her brother-in-law to England, to a town that imprinted the girls heavily in their youth. The theme of the story is that the people we think we know best don't always turn out to be who we thought they were.



A.J.'s bio: A.J. (Angie) Kiesling grew up loving trees and words--trees because they formed the natural backdrop and playground for her childhood years in rural North Carolina, and words because they captivated her from as far back as she can remember. When she wasn't romping through the woods with her siblings, she might be found with her nose in a book--or lost among the shelves at the local library.
She has worked in the Christian publishing industry since 1985 as an author and editor. A former religion writer for Publishers Weekly and Religion BookLine e-newsletter, she frequently reported on spirituality trends and religion book publishing. Angie is the author of numerous books, including Skizzer (a novel, Revell), Where Have All the Good Men Gone? (Harvest House), Jaded: Hope for Believers Who Have Given Up on Church but Not on God (Revell), and Soul Deep: Prayers and Promises for Cultivating Inner Beauty (Barbour). She also ghostwrote Live Like a Jesus Freak (Albury), the popular follow-up to D.C. Talk's bestseller Jesus Freaks.
Beginning her career as a staff editor for Charisma magazine, she went on to cover industry news and book trends for the award-winning trade periodical Christian Retailing, followed by an editorial position on the startup website iBelieve.com. Over the years she has worked as an independent book editor and writer for some of the leading names in book publishing: Baker Publishing Group, Jossey-Bass, Thomas Nelson, Honor Books, Harvest House, Creation House, Barbour Publishing, and Xulon Press, among others. Today she heads up the editorial department at Xulon Press, a print-on-demand publisher based in Orlando.
About Skizzer: After receiving news of her sister Becca's abrupt disappearance, Claire Trowling must piece together the shadowy remnants of a past she's long forgotten in order to find her. A cryptic note scrawled in Becca's handwriting leaves more questions than it answers. When a stack of mysterious letters bound by a rare necklace is found, Claire races to discover the secrets that hold her family captive. Suspenseful and full of intrigue, Skizzer takes you on a transcontinental hunt for answers, weaving seamlessly between the distant past of childhood and the urgency of the present."This debut novel from Kiesling is a quick and engaging read with plot revelations meted out skillfully enough to keep the pages turning.... [The book has] an adventurous story, a compelling protagonist and thoughtful musings on the real meaning of sisterhood." -Publishers Weekly






Don't forget to comment here to win a copy of this very cool book.

Plus visit the book tour blog to enter the authors very cool contest..!

music, weight watchers, free book ahead

So yesterday was Memorial Day and we both had the day off and it was just us the two of us. It was nice to take a nice walk and just relax!

Michael learned something new about me. Years ago when I was just a wee child I would lock my door and I would sing my heart out in my bedroom. I really thought I could sing and I would imagine those singers singing along with me. Do not laugh. In 6th grade I remember thinking, " When I get older, I need to remember that I started singing in 6th grade..I would not just sing, I would sing quite loudly!! Last night, Michael got on Youtube and would play some videos and I would guess the name and title of the song. I actually knew most of the words. It was a really fun game! I loved the ballads of Tiffany, Breathe, Glen Mederos, Kenny Loggins and any other cheesy artist from the 80s and 90s. I know some of you sang just like I did. What were some of your favorite songs to sing?

Weight watchers. Im back on track and I will weigh again tomorrow. So far so good. Finding some yummy new recipes and Thursday we are going to have crockpot chicken fajitas. That sounds yummy. My new favorite food is FF 100 cal tapoioca pudding. Yummy!! Im also loving Special K Vanilla Crunch cereal. I also have to say that our walk yesterday was a lot of fun and I can not wait to do it again!!! Let us know if you would like to go with us and maybe doa picnic. Lucy had fun as well!Its time to get more active!!!!

Weight Watcher friends, do you guys have any new foods that you are just loving????

On another note, tomorrow there is a book tour stopping by and they gave me an extra book to give away. So stop by and leave a comment. This book is definitely a guys and girls book. Hope you remember to stop by tomorrow!!!

WW meetings and such

Some of you guys have really been encouraging me to get back to my WW meetings and this past week I did. Glad I went. I knew I had gained 2lbs and since I have been eating totally off program for 3 weeks, I was okay with that.



So I go in and get on the scale. If you have ever been to WW, you know that if the person immediately doesn't say "You lost _____" then you have gained. She passed me my paper and didn't tell me but simply said , well at least you are here. Oh that ticked me off and I just wanted to leave. But I stay and I am glad I did. The lady who ticked me off and I quickly got over it has lost over 225 pounds. In fact last week, she was flown out to NYC to be on the TOday show because of her weight loss. She shared her story and then we talked about Memorial day and how not to fall off the wagon. People shared recipes and although I may not go back to that leader, I am glad I went and it motivated me to get back on..



Last night, Michael grilled me a chicken kabob and it was really good!!!!!



Hope all of you have a great week and for those who eat WW food. Publix has the desserts buy one get one free.



I am enjoying the WW and working on getting back to where I was 7 weeks ago. Its hard but I know I can do it. I have to make better choices..It sounds simple but it really is not.



I will control my weight and eating habits, they will not control me!

more random thoughts

I had no interest in blogging today but I am full of emotions and figured I might feel better if I just type and then I can always erase.

A heart is a wonderful thing. I am thankful for every emotion I have experienced. The Chapman family is still on my heart, and its a pretty heavy heart tonight. I am praying for this family during a time I can not imagine. I pray that every member finds peace tonight and tomorrow and the rest of their life. Certainly Maria's life touched millions. I am still not sure why it is still physically hurting my heart tonight, as I do not know this family.

Someone very very close to me had a very big change of heart and hearing those words made me tear up. It was a cool moment.

We have a new nephew as of this week and new life is awesome.

I started a mentoring program on the floor today and had a very successful luncheon.

I spent time with a new family last night. They had a 3 day old and just experiencing this family made me smile. There is something about holding a newborn baby. The way they feel, the way they smell, the way they move, the way they sound. Its just peaceful. I really enjoyed my time holding this precious life while mom and dad got some rest. I love my job!!!!!

I have dreamed. I have hoped. I have prayed. I have cried. I have ached. I have wondered. I have prayed some more. God and I have been having some cool conversations lately. He has been whispering pretty loudly and I do not want to miss anything.

I am serious about loving these emotions, even the ones that bring a heavy heart and tears. God is an amazing God and if you do know Him, I pray He leads you to Him. I am amazed at how my life has changed in the past years and how I see things now. God can bring joy out of sorrow. He can teach us things during times that seem hopeless. Sometimes God uses us to help others and sometimes, we experience pain but I know my God is faithful and true. Its very hard to "Let go and Let God" but it something I have to learn. I can not control things. It sometimes seems easier to do so, but I know the outcome is always better when I give it to God!

Prayers needed!

Ok please pray for Steven Curtis Chapman and his family. One of his younger daughters was killed today after being hit by a car . I do not know this family personally. This is a Christian musician who had a large influence in our decision to adopt from China. My heart is sad. I know this family has touched thousands of lives.. Please join me in praying right now.He may be a famous musician, but he is a father and he and his wife had to say goodbye to a sweet little girl who went to be home with her Heavenly Father.

Why? Why does a family who has touched so many lives have to experience this pain? Only God knows the answer.

I do not doubt God. I can not grasp the concept of this kind of pain. In the past 2 years I have seen several children die. My first 2 funerals I ever attended were for patients under the age of 2. In the past few months, I have seen parents lose their children before they can even hold them. Perhaps its because we are waiting for our daughter, but dang, this is heavy. We have nieces and nephews and if anything happened to them, I would literally have a hard time taking a breath. What is going on? I do not know this family, yet I quickly go to God for prayer. As I pray for them, I think of sweet Catie and Audrey and Ava and their families and my heart aches. I do not want to feel that. I do not want my friends and family to feel that.
I do not that God will be glorified and I know that good will come out of this. I know this to be very true. I have seen goodness and joy come from pain and suffering. Knowing and believing do not take the emotions away.

http://chapmanchannel.typepad.com/inmemoryofmaria/

last nights AI

Just watched and I can not help to thing that David C chose those songs on purpose. He seems to be genuinly nice and very mature. Perhaps I want to think the best of people, but it would be smart to be second and do an album of his own than do the pop album that would be very good for David A. If David comes in second, Im not sure how well his cd would do except in the teen area. I almost think David C was looking out for David A.

Here is what I want..I would love to see David C win, but if David A wins, those are my thoughts.

********* Ok, loved it! Had to watch it without sound at trivia but we saw who the winner was and I am happy....

Yeah David Cooke!

More reasons why I love my job and stuff

Sunday night, my patient made me a Mii and I got to play the Wii for the first time. Way cool, but my patient beat me.

Tonight, I have a patient who does not even weigh 4lbs. Shes perfectly healthy and really should not be in the world quite yet but I could stare at her forever. Such tiny features. I just can not believe how itty bitty she is.This teeny tiny baby is going to grow into a healthy adult. Thats just awesome.

In other news, thanks to Michael's side of the family, we are going to get a new nephew today!

***** and on other news, I went ahead and got on the scale. I have only gained 2lbs since getting on the cruise which I assumed would be a lot more. I am not going to sweat 2lbs, back to the program I go. I have still lost 20 lbs which is cool!******

Sweet Caroline-book tour and review and even a contest

I was given a great opportunity to read and review some new books and here is another one! Just have to tell you that the character of Caroline is soooo me. Her thought processes are just like mine. I loved this book. I loved the story. I loved that the author focused on how the character felt, dreamed and just lived. I could definitely be Carolines friend.

This is really a good book. If you do not like to read Christian fiction but know someone who does, this is such a sweet gift.

To visit the book tour, check out

http://www.rachelhauck.com/2008/05/welcome-to-sweet-life-blog-tour.html

Contest: The Sweet Life contest! Enter to win a Scrumptious Baking Basket from Rachel. The basket contains a Super Cool Apron, a Low country cook book signed by PAT CONROY, rolling pin, and a pie plate! All you have to do to enter is sign up for Rachel's newsletter here: http://rachelhauck.com/newsletter.htm

About the book:
Caroline Sweeney has always done the right thing--the responsible, dependable thing--unlike her mother who abandoned her family. But when her best friend challenges her to accept an exciting job adventure in Barcelona, Spain, Caroline says "yes" to destiny.
Then, without warning, ownership of the run-down cafe where she's been waitressing falls right into Caroline's lap. While she's trying to determine the cafe's future, handsome Deputy Sherriff J.D. Rand captures Caroline's heart.
But when her first love, Mitch O'Neal, comes back to town, fresh from the heat of his newly-found fame as a country music singer in Nashville, Caroline must make some hard choices about love and the pursuit of the sweet life.

About Rachel (the author):
I'm a forty-something, a child of the '60's, '70's, '80's, '90's and '00's.
I roller skated through the '70's into the '80's with Farrah Fawcet hair and a three-speed orange Camero.
Born in Ohio, I lived several years in Oklahoma and Kentucky before my parents moved the family to Florida.
I graduated from Ohio State University (Go Buckeyes!) with a degree in Journalism. As a member of Phi Mu sorority, I partied my way though the last few years of college.
But, the truth is, and always will be, I belong to Jesus. At the age of six, I knelt at the altar of a Tulsa Methodist church and gave my life to the One who loves me.
After graduation, hired on at Harris Publishing as a software trainer, determined to see the world. And I did it without a laptop, a cell phone, an IPod or portable DVD player. Those were hard times.
But, I traveled to Ireland, Spain, Venezuela, Mexico, Australia, Canada and the U.S. from California to Maine. But, life on the road is difficult. Working twelve to fourteen hour days, one doesn't get to see many of the sites. In Ireland, our company's distributor drove me around at night so I could see something of Dublin.
I met Tony, my husband, in '87, at church, of all places. We got married in '92. Tony has been a pastor for twenty years. I've worked with him in eighteen of those twenty. Our heart is to see teens and adults passionate, radical and whole hearted for Jesus.
Tony and I don't have any children of our own, lots of kids-in-the-Lord and we love them all. However, we do have a very spoiled dog, and an even more spoiled cat.
I've always wanted to be a writer. My dad used to tell me, "You're a writer." I have letters he wrote me post college, exhorting me to write. In this, I believe he had the heart of God.
In '93, I started an epic WW2 novel with two plots. It was well rejected. After that ordeal, I took a break and put efforts into my job as a software project manager. But, I missed writing and in late ' 99, I took up the craft again.
With a little help from my friends, my first book was published in ' 04, Lambert's Pride, a romance novel. I love writing chick lit and romance. I love writing. What an honor.

Links:
Rachel's website: www.rachelhauck.com
Buy the book here:http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1595543376?&camp=212361&creative=383841&linkCode=wss&tag=sprightly-20
Rachel's My Book Therapy ( a writing craft blog for writers): www.mybooktherapy.com

Heavy heart today

Do you ever wonder why you are where you are? I mean I am sitting here in an air conditioned home with high speed wireless Internet, making pasta, while others are sitting in countries with no electricity, no clean water and attempting to entertain their children with what little toys they have? Sit back and imagine what that is like. You rarely have clean clothes, you do not get hot showers and you do not compain. I think about families around the world. There is more to the world than Atlanta, Ga.

Do you ever wonder why you were not one of the thousands of people who died in the earthquake or the tsunami a few years ago or even the tornadoes in TN?

I have been wondering why I am so fortunate. Why me? Why am I here in the United States? Do I take my life foregranted? I have been wondering why I am so selfish. Is it in fact human nature? Some families walk for miles to get groceries barefoot and I complain about the price of gas going up. I am fortunate to have a car.

This post is not to make you feel guilty. I feel guilty. Do you think we were possibly put on this earth to help other people? I have not helped anyone. Really I want to help, I just haven't. I am so focused on where my life is now and where it is going, the only thing I have done for other people is feel sorry for them. I do want to do more. I want people to have the help they need to have better lives, but am I willing to give the help? Does anyone else feel like this?

Why as a nation such as ours, do we not help more? Why are we so focused on ourselves and what would make our lives easier? Is it because I am lazy or is it because I am just comfortable the way I am and I do not like change?

Now I realize that by posting this does not mean that I will change myself. I hope that I do. I hope that I can begin putting other people ahead of myself, because I believe God created me that way. I have to find away to do more.

These are the questions I think about.

Praise

You guys remember me talking about a young couple who had a premature baby and mom was getting a new set of lungs?

Well, guess who is home? Thats right, all 3. The family is out of the hospital. Go check on them here. Have some tissues and dont say I didnt warn you!

ask away or whatever

Ok, Im bored. This morning, I got up went to the gym and had my Special K Vanilla Crunch cereal. Now I am checking email, blogs, watching Wedding Crashers, hangining out on the WW drama and wishing some drama on one of the yahoo groups I moderate would go away but its there to stay. So I really have nothing to write. So I give it to you..

Ask me a question. Post the alphabet in another language. Tell me what annoys you. Tell me why I should read your blog..

Its yours! ASK AWAY

Yippeee

Oh my gosh. NKOTB is performing, rock on!

Ok this is better than if Dylan and Brenda were to get back together..

China

As someone adopting from China, I feel a bit of connection to this country. I can not imagine thousands of people being buried after an earthquake. I do not want to think of how scared those people were. College students were killed. Parents were killed.This kind of tragedy pulls at my heart and makes me think of my family even more. I can not fathom what these people are thinking or going through. I am sure those of you who are home with your children from China have a totally different perspective. You are thinking of the affected provinces and the orphanages your babies came from.

Rarely do I post something on both of blogs, but this disaster is going to touch everyone around the world. They are going to need help. Lots of help. Dozens of organizations are accepting donations. There are orphanages and other places in China that are going to need help. I hope you will help. I can not imagine that one of the people suffering in China may be the birth mom or other caregiver of LynnMarie one day and that makes my heart sad. The death toll is rising. The survivors are going to need help. There are paypal accounts set up. Even if you only have 5 dollars to help, I know that 5.00 can help. If you are a praying person, pray for this country, pray for those helping and pray that God will show you how you can help.

I know there are countries all of the world who need help. Right now my heart is in China.

Once I have confirmed info on where you can help, I will post it. I will let you know how Michael and I choose to help.

If you have info for people who need help. Please leave a comment.


****** I am being told that both Love Without Boundaries and Half the Sky both have places to donate. Both are great organizations.*********

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the many faces of Lucy the basset hound

I was on the weight watchers message boards (which are free and open to the public) and stated that I had fallen off the wagon and was still laying flat on the ground. How in the world can I do so well for 7 weeks, go on a one week cruise and then not get right back on the program?

Enough whining. I am back. I'm hitting the gym this morning.
and will get home and have my 2 low fat waffles with low cal syrup and a banana. I will drink all of my water today. I will not sit down all day, as we have a lot of cleaning today. I will have almonds and low fat cheese as my snack along with 1 pt yogurt, a WW lunch with some salad and tonight we will head to trivia with some members of our community group. I will ask them to make me a salad and will have a slice of pizza. I will continue this program and I will not give up.

Since I ave put this out there, feel free to nag me, ask me how much time Im being lazy, how much exercise I have had. Steven has been doing this, and I love his accountability.

Happy Mother's Day to all of my family and friends. I hope you have a fabulous day. There are some of you who are sooo close to meeting your children for the first time and some of us that will be waiting for a bit. I hope your hearts get a big hug from God today.

Now, on to my own mom. My mom rocks. She makes me laugh. She picks on me. She tries to give me advice. She puts up with me even when I am mean to her. She gave me life. She gave me memories. She gave me smiles. My mom has the biggest heart in the world. Mom, thanks for giving me life and thanks for giving me a brother and a sister.

No words could ever explain how much you have impacted our lives.

Saturday

Its now Saturday and I just got back from visiting some neighborhood garage sales It was fun, but next year, I think I will find someone to go with me. I did get some brand new childrens books because you can never have enough of those.

I think my blah mood is over. I'm back to work and I have actually gained a few pounds but back to the program I go. I'm not too disappointed in myself because I know I can do this. I have been thinking a lot about my weight problem and why I cant just beat it. I like to exercise and I like to eat healthy. SO whats the problem. I desire unhealthy food and instead of taking the time to think about, I just eat it. Its totally mental and I have to figure out how to overcome this mental thing. I eat out of habit and because I think I need to. If anyone has any suggestions let me know. I will hopefully have a weight loss next week.

We had our community group last night, and although, only half of us were there, we had a great discussion on friendships and carrying each others burdens. Community is great and I am so glad our church really encourages community groups! I am learning so much about friendships..

In case I forget, happy Mothers Day to everyone!!!!

Whats everyone doing this weekend?

Book Tour- what women want-must own

Okay before I begin, go get this book. Dudes, go get this for your moms, wife, sisters and friends. Its that good! Its sooo good, I am going to recommend our church do this as a small group sometime.. Can you tell I liked it?

This book is one you need to own, not just borrow. I will be reading this again. The ladies have taken my thoughts and written a book about them. There is guest authors through out the book and its just so full of great info!

About the book: From a deeper relationship with God to harmony in the home, from stronger marriages to more satisfying work: Women Want More.

In What Women Want, bestselling author Lisa T. Bergren and Rebecca Price invite readers to thoughtfully consider their soul-deep longings—and pursue God’s best in every area of life. Using in-depth interviews from a national survey and hundreds of personal interviews, biblical narratives, their own personal stories and inspiring quotes, the authors point fellow seekers toward the kind of wholeness God desires, providing lots of fun and inspiration along the way. They explore friendship, how and where to find happiness, health, and more with an eye on physical, emotional, and spiritual matters.

A Bible study, designed for personal or group use and tested with dozens of women’s ministries around the country before publication, is included at the end of each chapter.

Young or old, married or single, with children or without, striving in the workplace or working in the home, readers will resonate with Lisa and Rebecca’s descriptions of the life women crave, and learn how God fulfills the very desires He stirs.

What women want is no secret. But discovering the God who satisfies might just be the adventure of a lifetime.

About the Authors: LISA T. BERGREN is the author of twenty-eight books that have sold many more than she ever believed. She writes a lot from the heart and in whatever category that currently interests her–from gift and children’s books to medieval fiction and Bible studies. She is a wife to Tim, an artist, and mother to three phenomenal children–Olivia, Emma and Jack. The Bergrens live in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and worship at Trinity Lutheran Church in Monument. For more specifics on Lisa, see her Web site at http://www.lisatawnbergren.com/.

REBECCA PRICE credits her long career (”Twenty-five years–yikes!) in the Christian publishing industry as providing opportunities to meet and learn from many gifted teachers and authors. She has worked in marketing and executive positions at NavPress, Word, Multnomah and WaterBrook Press. After moving around the country (and to London and back), she returned to her home state, embarked on a business venture with Lisa, and is now a publishing and marketing consultant. Rebecca lives in Little Rock, Arkansas, and is actively involved at Fellowship Bible Church.

Buy the book link: http://www.amazon.com/What-Women-Want-Crave-Satisfies/dp/140007245X/

Website Link: http://www.satisfiedheart.com/

CONTEST

Okay enough of my love of the book, of course there is a contest! If you tell them about your sister of the heart and email it to amy@litfusegroup.com you'll get this story published on their blog ( http://www.satisfiedheart.com/blog/) . Okay it gets cooler...the story with the MOST comments will win a copy of this incredible book, a soundtrack of your choice for your 'sister of the heart' AND will be entered to win $15 at Starbucks

Let me know if you participate, I'd be happy to post a comment!!!

another honest one

HI friends.

Laundry is done. I am back on the Weight Watchers Wagon and have been to the gym 3 times this week.

First of all before you read this post, I am in no way depressed, just want to be honest. Sometimes, I get comments about me being so positive and cheerful and most of the time I am but then there are sometimes when I just feel blah!

Sometimes things just weigh on your heart and your head. You dont know why but everything hits you at one time. Sometimes it what we consider good things and sometimes not so good. Last year I realized it was a year of self-awareness. I learned how to be honest with myself and to really talk to God. I saw things that others saw. It was a cool thing and it continues. I know that God has been working in my heart and will continue to do so. I hope that next year I am a totally different person. Well maybe not totally different, but with less fluff and a bigger heart!!!

My biggest weakness is seeking approval. I have done this all my life. I want my friends, coworkers to like me so I do what I need to do to get them to like me. My parents always felt like I was taken advantage of and I am sure to some degree they were right. That has never bothered me. I think I am smart enough to know better now.I am now 33 and have finally realized that the only approval I need is my Heavenly Father's. That's where my focus needs to be on. I just feel like God is looking down sometimes and is saying " My precious child, You've got it all wrong". Anyone else feel like that? I try to protect those who love me. If I think you are hurting a friend or family member, I tend to act before thinking and I warn you, I am not that nice.

I love my God. I consider myself a Christian, although that title immediately causes judgement from others. I love to read the Bible, but I will honestly say I do not know like I should. I can not quote scripture like a lot of people. I wish I could.

Another weakness of mine is jealousy. Many of you know that, I have talked about it before. Its mostly of people who seem to have it all together. I know in my heart and mind, that no one has it all together. If I could figure out how to just simply focus on myself and not on others, I would probably be a lot healthier mentally. Sometimes I wonder why goood things happen to everyone else and not me. Is it because I am not praying enough? Is it because I haven't done anything to work towards those goals? Mind you, I know that God will grant the desires of my heart. In time. In HIS time. You know whats funny? The wait of our adoption has increased and I am still okay with this. Its the other things in life that have me worrying. Poor hubby. He knows I am stressed and I am not sure he knows what to do with me but to love me. Yeah hubby!

Recently I have been kind of sad about some things. I feel like I have lost some friends and I wondered why. Did I do something wrong, perhaps it was me who wasn't a good enough friend? Its a very hurtful feeling to think I have lost so many friends at once. I really don't like this hurt heart feeling. It really sucks .This is where my coworkers would call me a bit paranoid. I panic over friendships. As much as I desire deeper relationships with others, I have not found time to pursue those. Do you have that problem? A couple of years ago, I found a great friend at work. We are still friends but life has changed. She now has 3 kids and although we talk at work and at email, I miss what we had. I can not let life get in the way of developing friendships. I love getting to know people. I love being real with my friends. I love friends who want to get to know me. What I have loved about some of my friends this year, is they actually have known what I have felt and thats pretty cool.

So I am hoping to be a bit more real with my blog.

Then there was last week. Vacation. With Family. On a Disney Cruise. Simply wonderful. It was sooooo nice to put worries behind me and spend time with the people who made me who I am. I once again realized how loved I am!! Yeah for family!


Hoping I get out of this blah feeling soon. Mind you, I still love life. I love laughing and I still love my job, my dog and my house. I love the blogging community. Many of you I have not met, and you have given me sooo much encouragement. I love my church friends. I look forward to what God has in store for the Christopher family. This past year has rocked. I am sooo thankful for the path He has led us down.

Your blogging friend
Amy

Disney pics

Trip pics via a slide show are over at www.valtool.blogspot.com

Dont forget to nominate someone for a prize while you are over there!!!!

Contest Winners

Okay, so here we go

The top number of posts goes to


Jose

and

April


I had a guest judge pick out the best question and answer and she said

Donna and Andrew for the question regarding FOod Network or Do it yourself? and for an answer she chose

Amy and Laughing with Tears for her answer regarding Kleenex and saying that sleeves were not a choice

So we have
Jose
April
Donna and Andrew and
Amy
as our winners

But, I bought 5 gifts so I am going to just randomly pick a winner. I am chosing Pam and Jeff for being so excited about the contest..
Winners, email me your address to amyschristopher@comcast.net and I will get prizes out to you. They are random gifts so if you do not like your gift, I hope you will pass it out..

WooHoo!!! Like contests? Go see www.valtool.blogspot.com and he has come up with a selfless contest which could be a lot of fun!

the trip

Pics coming soon along with contest winners.

Our vacation

Thursday morning we woke up and left for Orlando. We took our time and had dinner with Michael's brother Tim and his family. Basil, who is almost 3 is getting ready to have a little brother and it was neat to hear him tell me Bible stories and communicate pretty darn well. Had dinner at Tijuana Flats..YUMMY. We made a surprise visit to one of Michael's friends and spent the night with Michael's mom. Its always nice to visit her.

Friday arrived and we made a stop at Subway before visiting our friend April, and her 2 girls. it was the first time we had met Smiles and she and her older sister Love truly entertained me. April, I had so much visiting your girls and spending time with you. Thank you for the sweet sweet gift!

After lunch we hit Edgewater to spend the next 7 days with my family. We got to Mom and Dads and the niece and nephews were in the pool. We had dinner at a sports bar and did one more shopping trip. Michael played trivia on the NTN box while we ate ans he won 1st place in the round he got to play from start to finish. At this point, I was just too darn excited. Now I hope you are still reading and didn't skip to the boat.

Saturday morning, we woke up and relaxed. We are about an hour from the port and this time I was in no hurry to get there. We packed my Honda and Dad packed his truck and we headed to Port Canaveral. Anticipation was quite high and yes, I teared up when we drove across the bridge and saw the Disney Magic. You would think either I was a kid or had small children. So we get our luggage out and park and walk to the check in. This was sooooo smooth. We saw Mickey and had our picture taken with Goofy. Dad and the gang came in about this time so we grabbed Janie and Seth and got a pic too!!!

We waited a short time and walked on the boat having had "the Christopher family" introduced. Michael being the supportive Weight Watcher husband coarsed me into walking the 6 flight of stairs to the lunch buffet. He even suggested seeing how long we could go without using the elevator, which was quite cool of him. But that didn't last long. After a crowded lunch, we hit our room and quickly unpacked.

We went to the traditional drill and after that we grabbed Owen for a while. This was very fun. Michael and I and almost 3yo Owen went to the sail-away party and he got so excited to see Mickey and the gang. It was so awesome to see the joy in his eyes. I just can not explain his face.

We dropped Owen off with Kelly and got ready for dinner. Dinner was good and we went to the first show of the week. WooHoo! We did a lot of walking around, visited the stores and watched part of Mary Poppins on the big screen outside. Yummy pizza too! In case you are a WW friend, I took the week off and until I have a weigh in, I don't feel guilty at all.

Woke up early and I hit the gym. Woohoo. I was proud of myself. This was a day at sea so I spent 35 minutes on the treadmill staring at the ocean. It was too cool. I woke up Michael and we had the character breakfast and went to the morning worship service. I'm so glad Michael mentioned this. It was such a neat experience. The man who lead the service was from the Phillipines and had some broken English but played The Lords Prayer and As the Deer. His heart was beautiful and talked about how when earthly fathers may fail you, your Heavenly Father never will. We then went to the pool. Before the worship service, we had breakfast with several Disney Characters who were sooo much fun with the kids. Owen got so excited and Janie and Seth also had fun.

I keep forgetting a lot of stuff. But we had a lot of pool time and buffet time. HeeHee. I think we had a sit down lunch on this day. We got resevations for the adult only restaurant and it was formal night so we had to go get ready. If you ever do this, Palo is just an awesome place and the service is fantastic. We did not make the show this evening, but thats okay as we had seen it before. I forgot what we did but Michael's report may be a it better.

Monday was another day at sea so I got up early and did the treadmill thing and had breakfast with my husband. Movies, food, swimming and sun was today and it was a blast. Dinner with the family and Twice Charmed was the musical for the day. Michael and I spent the most of our pool time in the adult pool. We met sooo many cool people. We had dinner with the family and went to watch the adult program which was an amazing dude who played the guitar and could sing any song you screamed out. Totally worth and it was so much fun..

Tuesday was St. Maarten. I had no interested in this island so Michael explored the island and Kelly, Mom and Dad went on a fishing excursion. I stayed on the boat and stayed "on call" in case Owen needed out of the nursery. Usually anyone under 3 has to go to the nursery but since Owen is potty trained, they let him stay in the kids' club. They didn't call me once.!! Yeah Owen. Also during the cruise, Michael and I played a lot of general trivia during the day and that was fun. there is plenty of stuff for adults to do on the Disney Cruise. Fun Fun!!!!! Dinner and show ended our day.

Wednesday was St. Thomas Day. We had to get up and be in the auditorium by 7:00 for an immigration check. We still had time for breakfast and to stare at the sky. This was a beautiful island. We did something different. Michael, me, mom, dad, kelly and her 3 kids all did an excursion together. We took a bus tour of the island really saw the island. BEAUTIFUL. We took some amazing pics on top of the mountain and enjoyed talking to each other during the ride. Even though, I booked the trip, I had no idea we were stopping at OceanWorld, a small aquarium of sorts. This was cool. We got to see sharks and touch stingrays and you could swim with sea lions if you wanted. We had 2 hours here and I think it was really worth it. The kids enjoyed it. We got back from the excursion and Michael and i walked around the shops before heading onto the boat for some chill time, which was quite limited. Dinner was good and we headed to a family show before going to bed.

Thursday was a day at sea so breakfast, pool, lunch, dinner, pool movies. Michael and I actually took Seth and Janie to the arcade and that was a hoot. Oh they were sooo funny. Meals were good today. Seth actually beat Janie at air hockey and then they loves it that Michael beat me badly (7-0).

Friday. Our last full day. This was Castaway Cay day, which is Disney's private island day. This was fun as Michael's picture will show you. Disney knows how to do an island. The Piratesof the Caribbean boat was there (The Flying Dutchman) and after spending some time on the family beach, Michael and I spent the rest of the day at the adult beach, where I had a Konch Cooler. Dude, those are soooo good. We got back early to the boat and spent the rest of the day at the adult pool on the boat.

We had dinner, packed and went to Pub night where the staff put on a show for the adults. We watched some of POC on the big screen and went to bed. Got up early, got sad leaving my family and headed over to Orlando..

Saturday we took long naps, had dinner with Michael's mom and went to bed. Sunday we got up, had lunch with some new adopting blogging friends and headed home!!


The Disney Magic has a really nice movie theatre and we were able to watch the newest National Treasure movie and Superdog, I liked both!

BTW, I skipped my weigh in today but will be back next week!

Michael has posted a few pictures already and has started his first post-cruise contest, so head over to Valtool's Box at http://www.valtool.blogspot.com/ to learn about and participate in his giveaways.

Anticipation
Awe
experiencing new things
Hope
Joy
self awareness
happiness
Proud
seeing families in a new light
Fun
intimate conversations with God
'being real'
stuffed
tan
burn
hugs and kisses
belly laughs
silliness
happy tears
sad tears
love of family
encouragement
dreams

We are home (well Orlando until 1pm). these are things I experienced this week on the Disney Cruise. my trip report will be up Monday afternoon and Michael will post his pics sometime tomorrow on his blog. Wowsers, the contest rocks! You guys are doing great and I did pick up some fun prizes. Keep it up, contest will close this evening at 8pm!!!!!

Our trip was truly magical!!!!!!

Contest as promised beginning Thursday morning

-Alrighty, this contest is going to last from Thursday morning until Sunday May 4th!
-Prizes will be from our Disney Cruise. How fun is that?

-Its simple. Its easy. its fun and I know that because you guys have told me that? What are we going to do????

THE COMMENT GAME

rules below Prizes will be given to the following
1)the most posts- if there is a tie, there will 2 winners
2) the most creative post
3) the most creative answer
4) the one that makes me laugh out loud

I will not be chosing numbers 2 and 3, one of my bloggy friends will do that. Rules You can not post directly beneath your post. There must be at least 2 answers and questions before you play again. Seriously, I am giving yall over a week. Spread it around. There is no reason why we should not have a ton of answers plus I love comments (hint hit)


HOW TO PLAY

Here's how it goes: I'll start the game off in the comments section by choosing two words or phrases, like coffee or tea, and which ever one you prefer you choose. You can also explain why. When you have done that you do two new words or phrases for the next commenter to choose from. Feel free to come back as often as you like. Just have fun.


WE ARE OUT OF HERE!!!!
CONTEST IS OVER!!!! WILL CALCULATE AND ANNOUNCE WINNERS SOMETIME TODAY. YOU GUYS ROCK!!!!

So it's now Wednesday April 23rd and in 24 hours we begin one heck of a vacation. Do you think Im just a bit excited?

First, Michael shares some of his favorite photos he has taken. The dude is talented. So, go visit www.valtool.blogspot.com.

I hope we will continue to share his talent..

It looks like Michael and I will be both be holding blog contests while we are gone. Make sure you check both blogs out starting tomorrow!!!!

Dont forget, prizes for our contests will be coming from our Disney Cruise. WooHoo

Last weigh in before cruise

blinkyou.com

That's right, Mondays weigh in was awesome. I was soooo hoping to hit the 1.8lb loss but I went over that. Rock on. This means that since March 10th, I have lost 22.4 pounds. Okay, I am bragging but I do not care because I am soo stinkin proud of myself. I made good eating choices and the times I didn't, I just went to the good ones again next meal. Thanks for all of your encouragement. I wanted to lose 20lbs before the cruise and I did. I have sooo much more to lose and I will probably gain on the cruise. But you know what? that's okay, because now I know I can do it! Hubbys been helping as well. He weighed my steak the other night. Yeah for supportive husbands. My plan was to have some reward goals. NO, I didn't have one for 20 pounds because well I am sure I will reward myself on the cruise!!

So, whatcha think of the new blog? Oh and there is a contest coming. Details later but it will begin Thursday morning and will last througout my vacation. its simple and fun!!

comment game

Click here for the comment game!

A Mothers Heart- book tour

Welcome to the A Mother's Heart Knows book tour! Its my first time participating!

What a sweet book this is.

A Mothers Heart Knows by Margaret McSweeey is just delightful!! Its full of beautiful word and pictures!

About the book: What better way to tell Mom how much you appreciate her on Mother's Day than with this lovely reminder of thoughts about the loving, selfless attitudes that fill a mother's heart?

The text and original four-color illustrations will be a beautiful and touching reminder to Mom that her love is never forgotten. The text is a reminder of those things that only a mother's heart knows, with some special emphasis on a Christian mother. Appropriate Scripture verses will be incorporated into the design element.

All royalty proceeds from this book go to WINGS (Women In Need Growing Stronger) and a student missionary scholarship fund. WINGS is a non-profit organization that provides a domestic violence shelter for women and their children in addition to transitional housing and programs.

I was given a copy of this book and its just beautiful. As a future mom, I can only dream of some of the thoughts the author has put in this book! Its just fabulous!

Want to visit the book tour? Just visit http://margaretmcsweeney.blogspot.com/2008/04/my-favorite-mom-blog-tour.html

Margaret is having a book giveaway over at her site so make sure you go and sign her blog!!!

Margaret's websites: www.margaretmcsweeney.com

www.margaretmcsweeney.blogspot.com

Link to buy the book: http://www.margaretmcsweeney.com/book1.htm

About the author:

Margaret lives with her husband and two daughters in a Chicago suburb. Her book, A Mother’s Heart Knows was published by Thomas Nelson in 2005. Go Back and Be Happy, a co-authored book will be published by Lion Hudson in July 2008. Margaret has been featured on Greg Wheatly’s “Prime Time America,” TLN’s “Aspiring Women,” and LeSea’s “The Harvest Show.” Margaret writes freelance articles for The Daily Herald, the largest suburban Chicago newspaper. Notable interviews include Wolfgang Puck, Thomas Kinkade, Susan Branch and Dr. John Gottman. Margaret also wrote a feature article for crosswalk.com. With a master’s degree in international business, Margaret became a vice president in the corporate finance division of a New York City bank and worked there from 1986-1993. Supporting charitable causes is important to Margaret. For the past five years, she has served on the board of directors for WINGS, an organization that helps abused women and their children get a new start in life.

Vacation and comment game!

I never post on Saturday but I have a few minutes before I leave for work. Did I tell you we go on vacation this week? After tonight, I have one more day to work before we pack up Thurday to head to Florida!! Saturday we will be on the Disney Magic with my family! I am totally excited, really I am. You would think we would have kids I am so excited! HeeHee!

Doing well on the weight loss, I will weigh in Monday for the last time before vacation and I will be good on vacation but I will also enjoy myself. I will not hate myself if I gain a pound or 2 on the boat, because I know I can get it off!!!!!

Comment game!

Here's how it goes: I'll start the game off in the comments section by choosing two words or phrases, like coffee or tea, and which ever one you prefer you choose. You can also explain why. When you have done that you do two new words or phrases for the next commenter to choose from. Feel free to come back as often as you like. Just have fun.

weight loss, blah blah blah

Morning friends!

Worked last night for 4 hours and its the first time I was in a really bad mood at work. Ouch I was just irritable. I think I was just tired, but it was an easy shift, and I got out on time. It was also the first time I have actually noticed I have lost weight. The scrubs are quit loose now. That felt good. Dinner was Trader Joe's Shrimp Stir fry and its yummy. Only 175 calories for the whole bag and when I got home I had a weight watchers cheesecake!!!

This morning, I woke up and had my 2 waffles with low cal syrup and headed to the gym and then did a few garage sales. That's always fun but it seemed like there were smokers everywhere. My parents smoke and it usually does not bother me, but today it did.

Not sure what lunch and dinner will be, but Monday is my last weigh in before the cruise. Peaked at the scale last night and it rocked..Lets hope it stays that way until Monday!!!

What going on with you? What are you having for dinner?

Another question, a lot of people give themselves goals and rewards during weight loss. Im close to my 20 pound goal, but do you have any suggestions on goals and rewards? I think I will start with
25 pounds =?

35= ?
50 =?

Tradition

SO yesterday, I head over to church for my last week of Women's Bible Study. This study is divided into 3 years, and by the time you are done, you have studied the entire Bible. SO this was a Spring celebration plus the first group to "graduate" from our church. Our church is so fun. Anyway, I get there and usually there is food and I am worried about that but then I see fruit, fruit and cheese. Rock on! I believe I had a 3 point breakfast..Thanks North Metro.

Anyway, we walked into the main room. Okay, I find it hard to call it a sanctuary (that's a whole other story) but it indeed is our place of worship. There were tables decorated as usual with unusual stuff on the table. I saw a goblet and thought, oohhh we are taking communion with our small groups..Awesome. Okay, I was a bit wrong.

I saw down to find our program, which had Spring celebration on one side. The other side said Passover Haggadah! Interesting. Our speaker got up and said we would be having a Seder (Sader) meal and incorporating all of the traditions. I am over half way done with studying the Old Testament, and thought this would be awesome.

So our speaker put on the traditional prayer shaw, and explained the morning to us. First of all, the reason the Passover Haggadah was on the back of the program is because that's how its supposed to be read, from back to front. Our leader put a veil over her head at the proper times, and we shared the meal, going from right to left. We had beautiful music performed by the home school kids at the church and as the meal continued, we learned about
Lighting the Candles
The 4 Cups of Wine
The Cup of Sanctification
Parsley
Karpas
The 4 questions
The Matzah
The Maror including the bitter herbs
Dippinfg twice and the Charoset
Recline
The story of the Passover
Dayeinu- beautiful song
The Afikomen
The Cup of Redemption
The Cup of Elijah and
The Cup of Praise

But as we took communion at the end of the morning, most women had tears in their eyes as we shared this together.
The women took the time to prepare this wonderful opportunity which ended up being an awesome worship experience.

Seriously, this rocking, contemporary church turned back time and taught me how to celebrate the Passover. You gotta love it!

If you are in Atlanta, check out www.northmetro.org

Michael and I disagree on a few things, but we both love the teaching here. They teach from the word in very creative ways. Wow!
We ended the morning with a video about the women's conference coming to Atlanta which will include Kay Arthur, Mandissa and Beth Moore. entitled Deeper Still. I am the only chick in our group who has never heard Beth Moore, but that's another story as well.

not to bring on the tears but

For weeks, I have been following a blog. I know, I follow lots of blogs. But this is oh so special. Its not because the daddy is a bit if a celebrity in the Christian music world. But because of what they have shared with the blogging world.

This family found out they were pregnant with their 3rd daughter. During an ultrasound, they found out their sweet Audrey Caroline, may not make it and they were told to abort the baby. They chose not to, but knew that Audrey would not live a long time. They shared their journey on their blog. They shared their hearts and what God was doing to their family. This is an awesome, humble family and I am thankful for them. I am once again thankful for the blogging world and that I was encouraged once again.

Sweet Audrey passed away a few hours after birth and today, her momma wrote her the most beautiful, heartfelt, letter I have ever read on a blog.
If you would like to read more of their story, click here. They have embraced the blog world. If you have listened to the group Selah, this is the lead singers family!

Idol, IPOD, need music

ok David Cook rocks the house! and the drama with his family this week is just heart breaking..The dude is awesome
thats really all I have to say about that!

Today is update the IPOD day. I shall be deleting and maybe adding. Whats on your IPOD or do you have a cd that I must listen to?

I like a lot of stuff, mostly Contemporary Christian, pop and country with music soundtracks included. Come on friends, show me some love and tell me what I need on my IPOD!

dreaded Weigh In

I avoided it. Didnt want to go. Did not do my best this past week, but I went. Down 1.8 pounds, which means I have lost over 18 pounds and there is a good chance I will hit the 20 pound mark before next week! Plan is to enjoy the cruise, with wise choices of course, and exercise with sister every day on the boat..

SO, the weight loss has slowed down but its mostly because of my choices..I even had spaghetti and pizza this weekend.

So we will start again tomorrow and hope my knee is feeling better as I really am enjoying my workouts with my IPOD

Gotta work tonight and Monday night so weigh in will be Tuesday.


A lot of people on WW have blogs and have included what they call their "staple foods". so I thought I would share my list. Hope that you will help me add on.

Added 10 more minutes to my exercise Saturday. Its finally fun to exercise and I know I will feel better afterwards!

WooHoo

WW- weight watchers

WW Yogurt- only 1 point
WW Ice Cream toffee bars- 2 points
FF shredded cheddar Cheese
Low fat Mozzarella
Light BabyBel cheese
2 point snacks
fresh veggies
frozen veggies that just need to be steamed
skinless boneless chicken breast
FF sour cream
Cant believe its not butter
Egg whites
Bacon
prechopped onions and pepper
WW English Muffins and Bagels
WW and South Beach frozen meals
Trader Joes Orange Chicken
Cereal
bananas

Ask me, ask me anything

Ok, I am a copy cat but I too, like blog interaction.

So, I took the idea from Steven and I say to you,

What do you want to ask me? Anything, really. I will be as honest as possible!!!!

weight, loss,exercise and food

Thursday 13 posted below


Had my first bad eating day..Got up late for a meeting at work but brought a 3 point muffin with me and a big cup of water which I refilled almost hourly. For lunch I had a McDonalds Asian salad with grilled chicken and light dressing for an 8 point total and might I add was rockin awesome!
Came home and had 2 GS cookies (hey had plenty of points left, so I thought) and then 2 more and then 2 more making it a grand total of 6 cookies which I couldn't even find the box becase they were just in the plastic wrap making it quite difficult to find the points..I did and yuck! Those were soooo not worth it..
Trivia night. Had some chips and queso, actually had a lot of chips and queso. But for the actual dinner, I had the grilled chicken sandwich without the bread and steamed broccoli. One day isn't bad I guess.

This morning, I have already been to the gym and did an extra 5 minutes on the stair thing and had a WW bagel and cream cheese and will have a potato and veggies for lunch with some protein for dinner.
Actual this dieting thing could be a lot of fun. I just need to get some creativity.
Tymm, I bought that stuff from Trader Joes. Just gotta figure out what to cook with it. A lot of people had heard of it. Where have I been?

Anyway, if you have any dieting tips or favorite WW foods that are pretty decent in points, let me know!

So regardless if you are participating in Thursday Thirteen, tell me one blog or website that you visit daily!