Days in the life of Amy Marie

I've Moved!!

2006-01-28T19:00:00.000-08:00

I've moved my blog!

You can find me here.

For those who would like, I'll have an RSS feed available shortly!

How old?

2006-01-21T12:41:00.000-08:00

I didn't really need a quick to tell me this...Apparently I act my age! LOL

You Are 28 Years Old

Under 12: You are a kid at heart. You still have an optimistic life view - and you look at the world with awe.

13-19: You are a teenager at heart. You question authority and are still trying to find your place in this world.

20-29: You are a twentysomething at heart. You feel excited about what's to come... love, work, and new experiences.

30-39: You are a thirtysomething at heart. You've had a taste of success and true love, but you want more!

40+: You are a mature adult. You've been through most of the ups and downs of life already. Now you get to sit back and relax.

What Age Do You Act?

Fun!! Let me know how old you are?

AM OUT!

Little things you find out at the Post Office

2006-01-18T23:08:00.000-08:00

So, the other day I had to run to the bank and post office. This is not an unusual task for me, but this particular day was slightly different. Rain was pouring down, everyone was driving slow, the bank was busy, and the post office was frightenly busy.

I am one of those strange people that love to watch other people. I think the human race is quite amusing. I wonder at times if God gets as tickled at us as I do.

Anyway, I stood in what seemed like a line a mile long. Many different people stood in line with me. A strikingly beautiful woman walked in as she did I smiled at her. She smiled back and I thought, "how nice!".

I looked around again and noticed another lady talking to who I would guess would be her doctor. She addressed him that way anyway. She was one of those "loud" talkers. LOL We have all met or seen those kinds of people.

Another woman walked in carrying 3 large boxes. She looked like she was going to drop them, but eventually got to the counter area that was in the middle of the extremely LONG line. She was void of smiles.

LOL Another woman got "stuck" talking to a grandfather type gentleman. You know the type. They like to tell you about their children and other information that they can think of at the time.

As I turned to look another way, I saw a gentleman who seemed quite grumpy. I watched him a bit and noticed he was getting frustrated at the length of time it was taking to get through the line. He only held what looked like 2 envelopes. He kept looking at his watch, so I assume he was in a hurry to get out of there.

I had to stop and listen. I heard God speak to my heart at that moment. That gentleman was so frustrated and in such a hurry that He was missing the little moments.

Have you ever wondered why we get stuck in traffic? Why do we get stuck in a never-ending line at the post office or grocery store? What's the meaning of being late, when it's something we can't control?

I heard God in one of these moments I couldn't control. The rain was pouring, the line was long, and I found myself at peace. I was listening for whatever God wanted to share with me. Maybe you aren't in that long line of traffic or people to be tormented. Maybe it's the only way God can get you to STOP for a moment and enjoy the "little things". Maybe instead of being frustrated because the long line is going to make us late, just maybe we should stop and be still...and KNOW that He is God. It's possible he might show us some "little things" that can be valuable to us.

So that's my blog...I know...I've been extra spiritual. But I can't help it. God is moving in my life, in my business, in my church; He's moving in everything I do.

Remember to appreciate the long lines!

AM out!!

I'm pumped!

2006-01-13T13:30:00.000-08:00

I am so pumped right now. I got my first order for Avon. Yes, yes, I've done it. I'm a new Avon Representative. Yeah! I love Avon's Products. I remember buying it with Mom WAY back; we just never had anyone here that sold it where we could buy it. Their make up is awesome. They sell all kinds of things, purses, jewelry, make up, cleansers, bath and body stuff, anti-aging stuff!! For those of you who only buy Mary Kay or such, or are a bit leary about it, I'll quote a good friend of mine, Leah, while she was looking through the catalog, "I might just have to buy something from here!"

YAH! So, anyone interested, let me know. You can even order online!

Not a whole lot has happened. Thus the reason I haven't written in a few days. Scott is in the hospital with pneumonia and some type of viral infection on top of it. He seems to be feeling no so hot, so everyone please say a prayer for him.

Been working a lot. Got lots in store for the new year, lots of goals and ideas. I'm so pumped about everything. God is moving and He's going to be doing much more than we could ever image this year. I absolutely KNOW it!

I gotta get off here and go see Scott. Then it's back to work again.

Ya'll be good and go buy some AVON! LOL

AM OUT!

What a beautiful thing...

2006-01-07T12:06:00.000-08:00

It's a beautiful thing to set goals for your self and to see success come about from it.

No, I haven't lost 20 pounds. LOL BUT, one of my goals this year is to draw closer to the Lord, to know Him better than I ever have. What is beautiful about this, is that I'm learning to take time out, even if I'm really tired, to spend some time in prayer and the Word. It's so hard, because come 4:00 am, I am ready for bed. BUT, He has not ceased to amaze me the last week.

As most of you know, Chris and I are involved in the TNT group (Twenties and Thirties) of his church. Now, this group used to be full of all kinds of single peeps. That is, up until this past year. Everyone decided to find a mate and get married. So there are only a handful of single people left now. Admittingly, it has been quite depressing. LOL Chris' pastor's wife (whom we shall call Mrs. Pastor) wanted to meet with all of the single girls this past week.

I was skeptical. All I needed at this moment was for someone to remind me how single I am and then tell me "your time will come, God's just not finished with them yet." LOL Come on, anyone who is or has been single, knows what I'm talking about. However, it was different. It was very enlightening and exciting. I didn't feel lonely at all. In fact, I left feeling quite excited about what I had learned and what God was about to do in this little group of 10 or so single girls.

That being said, I left with a pretty anxious heart. I wanted God's blessing NOW. But as we learned at the meeting, we must WAIT upon the Lord (wait meaning to SERVE). On the way to help Dad paint a house the other day I became so overwhelmed with everything that I NEEDED in my life. Earlier, Chris preached at me, telling me that we've never seen God fail us yet. I knew that, I just didn't want to hear it because I couldn't SEE Him providing what I needed at that moment. I broke down, and the Lord spoke to me in that still small voice. "Why don't you ask me for help, you never ask, you think you can do it all on your own?"

"Wow...ok God, I hear ya," I cried. "I'm asking for your help." I went on asking for ALL the things I needed help with. Afterwards, I stopped crying and went to work with a peace that passed all my understanding.

Later that night, as I was studying His Word (I often reflect to The Message), I found this scripture:

Proverbs 30:5 (This is what I read in The Message)
The believer replied, "Every promise of God proves true; he protects everyone who runs to him for help.

Proverbs 30:5 (This is what it says in KJV)
Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.

Isn't that amazing...the very thing God spoke to me in the car, is the very same subject of the scripture I read that evening. It was a reassurance that God was real and cares about us.

I love it. I love to hear from God, it makes all things "add up".

Just thought I'd share that with you. Maybe you need to ask the Lord for some help.

James 4:2
"...Yet you do not have because you do not ask."

AM OUT!

Happy New Year and all that jazz!

2005-12-30T21:21:00.000-08:00

Right now I'm sitting at the Beauvais' house. I'm supposed to be house sitting. Don't tell them, but I'm actually making myself at home! ;-) Although this big ole house can be quite intimidating at times, especially at night when all the lights are off, I love the freedom of being here alone. No brothers buggin me, no puppies sittin at my feet (their dog, Angel sits in her own little corner, only to come out when I hollar, TREAT!), no phone calls for work, no phone calls from friends who call at all hours in the morning KNOWING I'm still asleep! haha

It's nice and just makes me want my own place even more. Some day when I become rich from Southern Gospel! haha It doesn't bother me a bit, I love my job, I love my parents, I wouldn't trade any of it at this moment in time.

Christmas was absolutely wonderful. Not counting the allergy problem I dealt with, I had a blast. Christmas Eve we spent the evening with the Beauvais', eating LOTS of food and playing "Catch Phrase". We talked shop, then went home to get ready for Christmas. "Santa" still had to visit the house...you know, stockings to stuff, mobile desks to build, etc.

I must say I was very happy with all my gifts. "Santa" left me cool stuff in my stocking, such as, miracle grow capsules (put them in water and they turn into a sponge animal), magnetic letters for the fridge, some body butter (ice cream flavors! yum!), and my fav, a little tiny - itty bitty - little blue pony with LONG hair that you could brush and comb. LOL Before you think I'm crazy, we've made it a tradition now, that instead of the 'Rents filling all of the stockings, us kids (I mean "Santa") fill them with fun stuff that reminds us of our childhood, and lots of good candy (absolutely NO fruit). LOL

For Christmas I got:
2 skirts
1 sweater
2 tank tops
1 make up bag
1 make up set
Movie - Never Been Kissed
Cow Chime
a Mary Moo Moo (which they are going to stop making)
1 magic scarf
1 cross necklace
1 pair of pajama bottoms with lipstick kiss marks all over
1 dinner with my friends Leah and Tosha
1 movie night with popcorn and everything
1 picture frame holding the pic of all of us on Halloween
too many lotions and body butters...soaps, etc to count
a hat with pretty green/blue flowers
a make up brush set
and gift certificate for a day out with my best friend (including pedicures, manicures, shopping, dinner, and a movie)

I'm so blessed!! I know I've forgotten something.

Since Christmas has passed I've been in one of those "single" moods. You know the moods "single" people get into when they get a little lonely for their "other half". LOL Bringing in a New Year alone can be quite depressing, but I refuse to let it get me down. My life is going well, I have a successfull business, a beautiful family, beautiful friends, beautiful friends' children whom are always willing to give me hugs and kisses when most needed. This new year can only bring more good things.

We are singing tomorrow night. I've been sick the last week, then dad got a bad sinus infection, so please pray for us. We will be with the Frost Brothers and the Stephen's Family here in Murfreesboro. I know it will be a great time. We will have to miss the service at our church, River of Life. Pastor Johnny always puts on a great music ministry during these holidays. I'm sure it will be great.

I've decided not to make New Year's Resolutions. Only prayers:

Prayer for Safety for all my clients, my friends, and my family.

Prayer for HEALTH for all my clients, my friends, and my family.

Prayer for Blessings for all my clients and their families and ministries, my friends and their families and ministries, and my family and our ministries.

Prayer for my business. That the vision Chris and I see in our minds and hearts would become a reality. That our minds and hearts would be full of wisdom and knowledge that can only come from God himself. That we would NEVER make a step without prayer, fasting, and HIS guidance.

Prayer that I can "drop a few pounds"! LOL More that I have the ENERGY to drop a few pounds! haha

Prayer that I may write a few GOOD songs. Songs that I know I have in my heart, but have yet to peak through all the gunk I carry around.

Prayer that I can learn and feed from the Word and all it gives. That I would learn more to let God be light in the darkness, my sword and my shield, my comfort in lonely times, my joy in sorrow, my peace in the storm, and my "other half" when I feel I can't go on without one.

And lastly, prayer for MIRACLES - big or small! I cannot wait to see what God will do in 2006!!

I must go for now. I rented a few sappy romantic movies, and I must get back to watching them. LOL I'm not done crying out the old year and laughing and giggling the new one in!!

MANY blessings to all my blog readers. I know I haven't written much on life in SG lately. I've been extremely busy and when I come to write, sometimes I just want to get away from it. Thank you to all of you for allowing me to ramble on. Thank you for coming back to read...and for sending me comments JUST when I really need them.

All My Love to all of you!!!

AM OUT!!

PS...just to share, I've re-designed Jonathan White's site. Just got it up right before Christmas. Check it out let me know: http://jonathanwhitemusic.com

Christmas is almost here!!

2005-12-23T10:44:00.000-08:00

Today is the offical "off" day for SSE. We are taking today through the 1st of January off. Just so everyone knows! ;-) It's nice but really WEIRD not having things to do. Even my "pending" box is empty (except for one thing).

I've still got so much to do before Christmas! I've got to go out and get a few final presents. I've been hit with some allergies and it's really irritating. The last 2 weeks I've just felt horrible. I really don't want to feel bad for Christmas. I've got too much cooking to do.

Tonight I will be having dinner with some special friends...and Christmas Eve we will be heading over to the Beauvias' for a Christmas party! yeah!

Christmas morning will come and we will do our usual stuff: Look through our Stockings to see what Santa has left us, open presents, fix and eat Chicken Enchiladas, and then play games. We almost always get some kind of new game for Christmas and have to play it. I can't tell you what the game is right now, cause that would spoil it! haha

Kym and her family may be coming over for Christmas. This year marks the 1 year anniversary of her father's death. I miss him and I know she and Mom B miss him even more. Thank God there is a hope for us, that our loved ones are NOT gone forever!!

On that note, I'm leaving with Joy and Christmas Spirit! I have to continue my rounds around town wishing all the employees of the stores I shop in a "Merry Christmas"!

So, to you...Merry Christmas and God Bless. Be Safe in your travels and for some...your cooking! ;-)

Feliz Navidad!! Merry Christmas!! Happy Holidays!! Joy to the World!!

AM OUT!

Tag, you're it

2005-12-10T10:39:00.000-08:00

As The Steve puts it: Stinkin' Christmas Tag

Figures...now, who's left to tag, Tosha (if she ever updates her blog), Kym (same as Tosha), Jessica (again, same as Tosha), Jess (see Tosha's note), Eddie (see Tosha's note too), and let's go with Andy A.

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Crud, I like both!! How can you make me choose?
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Duh, he wraps them and then puts a tag on it. It usually says something like To: Amy From: Santa
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? BOTH! Come on people get with the Christmas spirit!
4. Do you hang mistletoe? No, but if I had someone to kiss I prolly would! haha
5. When do you put your decorations up? I'd leave them up all year if I could, but usually, if possible, the day after Thanksgiving.
6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? Chicken Enchiladas! Yum!
7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child? The year Chris got Coal in his Stocking. He was so mad! haha
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? The truth? What you talkin bout Willis?
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? Sometimes we open ONE, but usually no.
10. What kind of cookies does Santa get set out for him? Sometimes it's whatever cookies we have available. When we were younger we used to leave him Creme Puffs (home made).
11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? LOVE IT!! Wish it would snow here!
12. Can you ice skate? Uh...not very well. LOL
13. Do you remember your favorite gift? They are ALL my favorite gifts!!
14. What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Besides the birth of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.....I'll go with The Steve, giving, giving, giving...and family!
15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? Pumpkin Pies (my grandmothers recipe!)
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? It goes like this: open presents, eat food, play games, eat more food, play more games, eat more food, go to bed! What a great day!
17. What tops your tree? A pretty angel in burgundy and gold
18. Which do you prefer Giving or Receiving? definitely giving!
19. What is your favorite Christmas Carol? Tie...I'm dreaming of a White Christmas and Oh Holy Night. Although, I did hear I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas yesterday and I must say, it's pretty close to the top.
20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum? If there is no more chocolate left, Yum!

That's it...I gotta go pick up the kiddos from their play and drop them off for some more play! LOL

AM OUT!

2005-12-07T22:29:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas my wonderful blog readers. I'm extremely excited that I finally have my tree up, along with the stockings on the fireplace. I've probably already mentioned it, I know. But Christmas is the BEST! Tonight I am stuffing envelopes with Christmas cards.

Last night the fam and I had dinner at the Cheesecake Factory with Mr. Rick Hendricks. I had never been there and it was quite good. The cheesecake was the best! While we were there, we were fixing to leave and "Favorite Things" was playing in the background. As mom and I were walking out of the ladies room we started singing it, just as another lady walking into the ladies room was singing it. It got me to thinking how Christmas is the ONLY time of the year where people seem friendlier. Christmas just brings out the best in people.

I've been flipping the channels on the tv looking for some fun Christmas movies. I can't find any. So, I've resorted to putting on White Christmas! Yep, there sings Bing. It's such a classic, I love it! Now, we need some parties, some yummy foods, hot chocolate, SNOW, and some pretty awesome Church Cantatas. You're never too old for Christmas.

Think about it, why are people more excited and friendly around this time of year? It takes us back to our childhood. And rightfully so, as we celebrate the BIRTH of the One that this holiday is all about. It reminds me of Liberty Grace getting all excited about her new baby brother. She couldn't wait to help her mom take care of him. LOL In that sense, I can't wait for the "birth of Christ" day! LOL Santa leaving me presents is just the cherry on top.

Maybe it's the whole giving thing. You know the saying, "it's better to give than to receive". No better time to find out if that's true than Christmas time.

I'm starting to get all organized...again! LOL So, all I need to do is some rearranging of some furniture and I'll be good to go. Maybe tomorrow evening.

Speaking of tomorrow, everyone wish my Daddy a Happy Birthday. Wish I had all sorts of money to spend on a present for him...but for now, he'll just have to know that he's the BEST and someday I'll buy him dinner! LOL

I've got to go, I got some more work to do before I head to bed!

AM OUT!

Christmas is coming!!

2005-12-05T10:42:00.000-08:00

Ok, so it's been a few days. BUT, I've been busy. Traveling back home from Thanksgiving, getting a few sites up and running, and putting up my Christmas Decorations.

I love Christmas...I love it! It's my FAVORITE time of the year. For one, the food is amazing. For two, the presents. LOL For three, it's just a romantic holiday. I'd prefer it much more to Valentine's Day. So, to all those guys who are waiting, lined up outside my door, (this is what I've been told anyway), then please know that Valentine's Day is not the day to spoil me! LOL

Anyway, I've got my tree up and stockings. I'm so excited. My pastor preached an awesome sermon yesterday on the birth of Christ. It was beautiful. Steve Hurst sang a Christmas song and it was gorgeous. "Sweet Little Jesus Boy", I think was the title. Then he put Away in a Manger in the middle. So pretty!

My friend Tosha, who I'm growing to like more and more every time we hang out, she is singing in a trio. They are singing Let It Snow and it sounds so pretty! I can't wait to hear it in the cantata.

Last night we sang at Emerge Worship Center. It's sort of like a coffee house scene. They have tables in the front of the stage and a couple rows of chairs in the back. It's different, out of the norm, but that's their motto! LOL

Next Sunday, Chris has his cantata at his church. I'll be heading over there, probably skipping out early on Choir Practice. I have to support my friends! ;-)

The following Sunday is the Christmas program/sing at our church. Sunday Edition is singing "Go Tell It On The Mountain". Exciting. This will be our first Christmas song to sing. We've just never done much around the holidays, so we've had no need to learn any Christmas songs together.

With the Christmas spirit in mind, I want to leave you with this cool video. Mariah Carey is one of my fav Christmas Albums. I've only heard one other person rock this song as well as Mariah, Mrs. Donna Beauvais.

Music Video Codes By HotGet.com

I'm gonna get...

Here's a few sites I'm working on or have completed.

www.turningpointag.com
www.newdesire.org
www.statelinequartet.com

AM OUT!!

Happy Thankgiving!

2005-11-24T16:42:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I recieved a couple phone calls today...wishing me a happy Thankgiving. ahhh...Sweet peeps, I love em!!!

Today I'm thankful for many things...I will make a list, but know that this is not all, as my brain is full on Ham, Sweet Potato Casserole, Corn Casserole, Pumpkin Pie, Pecan Pie, veggies, and more. Yum!!

Here we go...I'm thankful for (in no particular order):

MY family - they're awesome
Kym and her family - they're awesome too
sweet potato casserole - yum!!
my business
my friends
the TNT group - Finally people close to my age to hang out with
PHASE 10! - Tiffany will agree, I know!
my car that runs - even though she's dirty
my computer
my bed
AMERICA!
good health
lights
camera phones
Walmart
Jesus
our soldiers
make-up
Pumpkin pie
Christmas and other holidays
Magnum! - he's my sweetie puppy
Blogger, Yahoo 360, Xanga, and My Space - so that I can keep up with all my friends and acquaintances
crossword puzzles
starbuck's
Sharpies
TV
Cable
clothes to wear
food to eat

I gotta go...Gotta get Dad away from the food!

Be safe and be blessed this Thanksgiving all!!

AM OUT!

Miscellaneous

2005-11-21T11:55:00.000-08:00

Last night, Allison Durham Speer sang at church. She didn't sing a whole lot, in fact Pastor Johnny had plans on preaching after she was done. That never happened. What a great way to start off our Thanksgiving week. She was beautiful...both in song and in spirit. She led the church into a worshipfull state. It was amazing.

She talked about some people wanting to take out the hymns of the church. She said the hymn to us today is like the memorial stones were to the Israelites when they crossed Jordan.
It's all here:

¹ When the whole nation had finished crossing the Jordan, the LORD said to Joshua, ² "Choose twelve men from among the people, one from each tribe, ³ and tell them to take up twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan from right where the priests stood and to carry them over with you and put them down at the place where you stay tonight." Joshua 4:1-3

¹⁹ On the tenth day of the first month the people went up from the Jordan and camped at Gilgal on the eastern border of Jericho. ²⁰ And Joshua set up at Gilgal the twelve stones they had taken out of the Jordan. ²¹ He said to the Israelites, "In the future when your descendants ask their fathers, 'What do these stones mean?' ²² tell them, 'Israel crossed the Jordan on dry ground.' ²³ For the LORD your God dried up the Jordan before you until you had crossed over. The LORD your God did to the Jordan just what he had done to the Red Sea when he dried it up before us until we had crossed over. ²⁴ He did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the LORD is powerful and so that you might always fear the LORD your God." Joshua 4:19-24

She said there was nothing wrong with the new praise and worship songs, they are wonderful songs. But it's the hymns that brought a lot of us to the Lord. Think back to what song was playing when you walked down the aisle and gave your heart to the Lord. For some it was "Amazing Grace". For others it was something else. They are songs that brought us through trials and sorrows. Songs that we have laid up to be a memorial, so that in the future hwne our descendants ask us what they are, and we might tell them, and they will know that the hand of the Lord is powerful and they may always fear the Lord.

What an awesome concept...I had never heard it explained that way. I've heard all kinds of arguments as to why we need to keep the hymnals, or take away the wall songs. Some people feel the samea bout the "wall songs" as we do about the hymns. Someday they will put all the "wall songs" in a book and call them hymns, and they will be as a memorial. It's a cycle...everything in life is a cycle. Each cycle moves to prove that GOD is GOD. Regardless of the tune or the look.

I love it when God shows us how big He is...how unlimited He is!

Thanksgiving is in a few days. I keep seeing the commercial for KMart, where the lady comes out with a burnt turkey and the little kids and dad are staring at her. She's all smiling and the dad looks at the table and says "honey, this table looks great!". LOL The little kid they zoom in on is adorable...the look on his face is priceless.

I'm so thankful for many things. I'll have to write again and list them all, or as many as I can. It's good for the soul.

I got one of those spam emails today. The person signed it with "yours," Seriously, why would you use that line if you didn't know the person you were sending it to. This person is not MINE. That's like someone signing their emails with "Your's Truly". What? The only person who should sign their letters or emails to me that way would be the one who is TRULY MINE! duh!

I've got loads of work yet to finish up. I've got a few sites I'm working on getting up before I leave. I'll let you see them when I know they're done.

I gotta get, gotta go run and pick up the Beauvias kiddos from school.

AM OUT!!

Faith Hill and Oprah

2005-11-19T11:35:00.000-08:00

So, yesterday I happened to flip my TV to the Oxygen Network. I tend to watch this channel occassionally for their romantic comedies. Sometimes they play old classics (of which I'm a fan).

On to the story. I happened to flip just in time to see Oprah - After the Show. I've never really been convinced to watch Oprah. To me, she has always appeared rather stuck up and "know it all"(could be I'm just jealous cause she's so successfull and rich - ha), but watching her After the Show, really made me rethink my opinion of her.

Faith Hill was on. Oprah asked her about the song she was singing during her sound check. It was "I Surrender All". They began talking about Faith's background and how she grew up in the church. Then Oprah began telling her moving story of why that particular song meant so much to her. It happened to be in regards to getting the part in The Color Purple (which if you haven't seen, it's a must). It really was a moving testimony.

After that, Oprah asked Faith to sing it. Now, many other things happened on that After the Show, including an engagement of one of Oprah's staff. Faith even sang some other songs she had made popular. The spot I thought wouldn't make it online, or wouldn't be talked about was the Faith Hill spot. How wrong was I. See for yourself. You can watch it, or some of it even.

It was so moving. Maybe it was just what I needed at that moment in time. God is funny that way.

Christmas is getting closer. And with that the Winter Weather! YAH!! I so love winter and Christmas. Cold weather, hot chocolate, fireplace, blankets, couch, old movies, carols, parties, gifts, christmas cards, snow, sweaters, coats, gloves, baby Jesus....YAH!

Next week is Thanksgiving. I love Thanksgiving too. The food is YUM! LOL We are going to North Carolina to visit with my Aunt and Grandparents. That will be fun. Only thing NOT fun...the 10 hour drive cramped up in the mini-van with Mom's machines and our sound system! (sarcastic)Yah!

I'm outta here! I got lots more work to do before I leave for NC!

AM OUT!

Missed the Party

2005-11-16T12:49:00.000-08:00

Last night was the TNT Thanksgiving dinner at PF Chang's. I was all set to go, my hair was perfect, make up set right, everything was great. While getting ready I watched the news which had been on ALL day long...a big storm front was moving our way.

Anyone who knows me knows that I do not like storms. Especially storms that produce Tornados. Watching the news, I saw that the storms were headed straight for the area we were to go eat at. Mom suggested we wait to see if it passed, Chris was upset, I was with mom. Just wait a little, there was no hurry that I knew of. Chris didn't want to wait, so I guess everyone came and got him. I stayed home. The weather men/women were saying NOT to get out in the weather until after it passes, as it was two different storms that were heading into one another. It had to be bad if weather was on from 2:00 pm till 8:30 pm. (Totally missed Judge Judy) Turns out there was a tornado that hit not far from where they were at, per the news last night.

Call me strange, weird, a baby, worry-wart, I don't care. I'd rather not "chase storms" as they put it last night.

So, I missed the party...but I did meet with a few of them later at Steak N Shake, as they stopped for dessert. It seemed odd!

Tomorrow is Kym's birthday. I have no clue what to do for her. Any ideas would be awesome. Here's the deal, I have NO MONEY! LOL So it has to be something that we can do for free! I have a small gift...but nothing major. I'm racking my brain!!

I gotta jet, gotta finish some work!!

AM OUT!

Another SURPRISE

2005-11-15T09:49:00.000-08:00

Last night we had a surprise party for MOM! It was classic, although she said she figured it out the day before. She said it was little things we did. But in all reality, we all are afraid to lie to mom, cause she is cunning enough herself to know when we are lying. LOL So we all hushed around, not saying much about the day.

We had a blast!! Special thanks to the Beauvais for letting me use their house! And Thanks to all who came celebrated Mom's old age. LOL

It was fun. Now it's back to work. I'm working on a few new sites...I'm so excited. I've got a couple of re-designs coming soon. I'll be sure to show ya, when their done!

Tonight for dinner Chris and I will be heading to PF Chang's for the TNT Thanksgiving Dinner. Hopefully all the threats of tornados and storms will be passed.

OH...big news for SSE...we signed Publicity Agreements with Dove Brothers, Gold City, Song Garden Music, and Diamond Awards. Exciting to see our company grow.

Ok...AM OUT!

Weekend for Doctors

2005-11-14T09:39:00.000-08:00

So...had an interesting weekend. Just wanted to take a quick moment to tell you about it.

As most of you know, I've been watching the Beauvais kiddos some weekends. This weekend I did as usual. Jenna, her friend Emily, and I were heading to Wally World to get some Floor cleaner. I thought I would take the girlies out to lunch, so we stopped at Arby's. While finishing up, I got a call from Donna, who sounded like a frantic mother. LOL She said Josh had just called her and told her he was 99.9% sure he broke his ankle at the Skate Park. I told her not to worry, we'd get him to the Emergency Room and find out what's going on. With strict instructions I left to take Josh to the hospital.

Turns out, to the relief of his mother, he had just a BAD sprang...They say sprangs can be just as bad if not worse than breaks. *Not sure who "they" are...but we all seem to go along with it.* The ER gave him a boot to wear...told him to use his crutches if he needed to. Yeah...he milked it, but wouldn't you?

Then, yesterday, I started feeling kinda gross. My throat was sore. I just don't have time or money to get sick...but I went ahead and visited the doc. She gave me some meds...starting to feel better now.

So, point of the story...within 24 hours, I was at the Drug Store getting meds, for TWO different peeps. I know they are gonna cut me off soon. "Sorry, ma'am, can't give you any more drugs." LOL Josh and I got a kick out of it! Funny stuff.

Ok, so you had to be there...but it's cool.

I gotta jet! Got some stuffs to do!

AM OUT!

What the problem is....

2005-11-11T22:45:00.000-08:00

I think I've found the problem with SG. It's simple... We refuse to learn to be a true music genre business. Until we do...we'll be stuck where we are wondering why we can only get "love offering" dates! SAD!!

I find it quite humorous that people REFUSE, literally refuse, to check out the facts when presented to them. For instance, do a search on "press releases" and how to write a basic press release. You'll find a few guidelines such as these:

http://www.webwire.com/FormatGuidelines.asp
http://www.press-release-writing.com/press-release-template.htm
http://www.coachbiz.org/how-do-i-format-and-send-a-press-release.html

Now where SSE seems to get the slack is the last paragraph of our press releases describing a little about our company. Now...for media, this is optional, meaning media chooses whether or not they want to print it, some do some don't.

Each of these guidlines state that you should include a paragraph regarding your business:

http://www.webwire.com/FormatGuidelines.asp
Background information about the company featured in the release, if appropriate, as well as any applicable safe harbor statement.

http://www.press-release-writing.com/press-release-template.htm
Company History (try to do this in one short paragraph)

http://www.coachbiz.org/how-do-i-format-and-send-a-press-release.html
The last paragraph of your press release should be a description of your business. Include a synopsis of what you do, where you are located, how large you are, and how long you have been in business.

I choose not to defend my company, only to educate those that are too lazy to educate themselves.

There are so many areas I could go into...we all could use so much more education when it comes to running our genre like a business. Of course, I'll have those comments about how this music is a ministry and not a business. It's about winning souls, not selling CD's.

The summit Chris and I just returned from talked about this. They were firm believers that FAITH and MARKETING are compatible. I happen to agree. Marketing is simply communication. It's finding a people with a need in which you can satisfy. Doesn't that describe the whole "go ye into all the world" concept? We are looking for a people with a need (salvation, healing, love, etc) in which we can satisfy (bringing them to Christ).

Within the next few weeks (hopefully if my schedule works out right), Chris and I will be focusing on our Southern Spin Artist Direction...working on our forums to get them really up and running. I'd love to start an educational process and make it WORK!!

I'm too tired to continue my rant...but rest assured it will continue! haha

AM OUT!!

More about me...

2005-11-09T17:55:00.000-08:00

So our trip to Dallas was fun, but too quick. It was a LONG car ride, for just one day. But we did get to have dinner with Amazed. I hope Tami is feeling better!

We did learn a few things while in Dallas at the Faith-Based Marketing Summit. Hopefully we will be able to apply some of the new things we've learned shortly.

Chris and I returned to find Dad sick with some sorta stomach virus. Seems Chris has now gotten it. He's been on the couch all day today. Anyone who knows our family, if one is on the couch with their own pillow and blanket, they are SICK! For some reason, it makes you feel a little better to be sick on the couch rather than your own bed. Don't ask me why...it's just how it is.

Leah commented on my last post about our trip to Walmart. She reminded me that I forgot a couple of things about that night. Our cupcake party in the parking lot of Walmart...and the sleeping guy in the car next to ours. LOL As we were munchin on a cupcake and laughing so hard we couldn't swallow our cupcake, we noticed a car sitting next to us that was running, but appeared to have no one in it. We are all laughing and joking and having a great time, when out of no where, just like in a scary movie, this man appears in the empty, running car. LOL Turns out he was sleeping with the chair laid back and we couldn't see him....weird thing, is that we ALL were looking IN the car to see if someone left their keys in it while it was running. We never even saw the guy. CREEPY, but Funny!

Ok...so here's more about me...besides the fact that I've been on a TCM kick since Sunday. I love me some old movies!

What is your occupation? Publicity - Internet Promotions
What are you listening to right now? A Woman's Face (Movie on TCM)
What was the last thing you ate? Chili with cheese and tortilla chips
Do you wish on stars? sometimes for fun!
If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Blue
How is the weather right now? Storms are forcasted, but seems to be clear so far
Last person you spoke to on the phone? Leah Lowrance
Do you like the person who sent this to you? Yes...he's a client
How old are you today? 27
Favorite drink? Right now...Vanilla Latte with extra Vanilla (starbucks)
Favorite sport to watch? if I have to watch it, tennis or baseball
Have you ever dyed your hair? uhm....yes!!
Do you wear contacts or glasses? glasses - only when I read or am on the puter
Pets? 2 cockapoos
Favorite month? December
Favorite food? Birthday Cake...chocolate with white icing!
What was the last movie you watched? Annie
Favorite day of the year? Christmas
What do you do to vent anger? go for a walk or run
Hugs or Kisses? either would be nice
Cherry or Blueberry? Blueberry
Do you want your friends to e-mail you back? well, since I didn't email this to them, nah!
Who is most likely to respond? haha...Leah!
Who do you live with? My family
When was the last time you cried? Tonight, while watching a TV show.
What is on the floor of your closet? LOTS...suitcases, AmyMarie CD's, blankets, books, humidifier, and more
What friend have you had the longest? wow...probably a tie between Jennifer Cochran and Kymberly Wooten, although I think I met Jennifer first.
What did you do last night? Last night I worked a bit, then went to Starbucks with Leah, Chris, and Tosha. Then we headed over to Target, and Books a Million. It's so fun to hang out with them.
Favorite smell? a bakery...yum
What inspires you? seeing others laugh!
What are you afraid of? being alone
Plain, cheese or spicy hamburgers? cheese
Favorite car? Dodge Ram 1500
# of keys on my key ring? which keyring? 3 on one, 4 on another
Favorite dog breed? cockapoo! LOL I have to say that! But I'd LOVE a husky!
How many years at current Job? 3 - almost 4 years
Favorite day of the week? Friday
How many cities have you lived in/name them? 3 - O'Fallon, IL - Southaven, MS - Murfreesboro, TN

That's all, I gotta go to te store...

AM OUT!!

Road Trip anyone?

2005-11-02T19:15:00.000-08:00

So, tomorrow morning at 8:00 am Chris and I will be heading to Dalls, TX for the first ever Faith-Based Marketing Summit. We are extremely excited about this and look forward to learning more!!

As Chris has stated to a few clients, "It will be a good growing experience for the company, and we can't wait to take in some new and fresh ideas."

Halloween was GREAT!! The night before I had to go to Walmart to pick up some sort of wig. Chris already had his, and we were needing something so we could go trick-or-treating with Liberty Grace. Leah and Tosha went with us to Wally World. What a blast. I haven't laughed so much in all my life!! We got slim to no pickins' in the costume aisle, being the day before Halloween. We got so tickled at the little bit that was available. I wish all of you could've been there. It's a wonder we didn't get kicked out of Walmart. LOL

I have to post a few pics of the event at Walmart. I wish I could've gotten pics of Miss Liberty Grace in her Stephanie outfit. She was Stephanie from Lazy Town. She was adorable!!

Ok..here are some pics and then I've gotta go pack for Dallas!!!
pic 1: Leah laughing hysterially at Chris in his mask
pic2: Leah and Chris as dinosaurs
pic3: Tosha in her spooky mask
pic 4: An extra pic of my puppy as his hair is growing out! yah! ;-)

AM out!!

For Fun

2005-10-28T23:36:00.000-07:00

I've been told it's time to update my blog. I've been slacking because I've been extremely busy. Chris and I are going to Dallas, TX next weekend for a Marketing Summit. We're very excited about what we are going to learn and the ideas we are going to come back with. We're trying to get things caught up and set before we have to leave for out of town.

So...since there's not much going on that's really exciting, I thought I'd update with something fun. Now you can get to know me a little more! haha

1. What time is it: 1:36 am
2. Name: Amy Marie Unthank
3. Nickname: LarryMoo, Ames, Sissy, Amy Mayberry, Amy Lou, Amy May, hey you!
4. Piercing: ears, that's all!
5. What is the most recent movie you've seen in the theater: Two For The Money
6. Eye color: Hazel (slight green tint in my left eye)
7. Place of birth: Belleville, IL
8. Favorite NEW food: TURKEY SPAM! (seriously, it's good)
9. Ever been to Africa: Nope
10. Ever been toilet papering (rolling) : nope
11. Ever love someone so much it made you cry: most definitely
12. Have you ever been in a car accident: 2 fender benders (almost 10 years ago)
13. Favorite day of the week: Friday
14. Favorite restaurant: Chilis
15. Favorite Flower: Tulip
16. Favorite sport to watch: Tennis or Baseball = tied
17. Favorite Drink: Diet Pepsi w/Lime
18. Favorite ice cream: Not a big ice cream eater, but I'd have to go with Cookies N' Cream
19. Disney or Warner Brothers: eh, tied
20. Favorite fast food restaurant: Taco Bell
21. What color is your bedroom carpet: tan
22. How many times you failed your driver's test? people actually fail it?
23. From whom did you get your last-email: SPAMMER - ugh!
24. Which store would you choose to Max out your credit card: Walmart or Target
25. What do you do most often when you are bored: Flip through TV channels
26. Bedtime: usually 2:00 or 3:00 am
27. Who will respond to this e-mail the quickest? LEAH
28. Who is the person that is least likely to respond? Chris
29. Who are you the most curious about their responses to this questionnaire? no one really
30. Favorite TV shows: DeGrassi (it's on the N)
31. Last person you went to dinner with: TNT's (Twenties N Thirties group)
32. Ford or Chevy: Chevy
33. What are you listening to right now: the sound of the air conditioner
34. What is your favorite color: blue (but I'm becoming very fond of pink)
35. How many tattoos do you have: none
36. How many pets do you own: 2
37. Which came first, the chicken or the chicken egg? duh...the chicken

There ya have it!! It's me! I've got another one I'll try to put up in the next day or two. That took me a whole 15 minutes! LOL

Now I'm off to organize some of my paperwork. It desperately needs to be filed and such. I'll get to bed sometime tonight!

We're singing tomorrow night. Not sure where, but pray for my voice. I've not been in full voice much lately.

Safe shouts to Jess and Eddie as they head out to OKlahoma! Thanks for hanging out with us tonight, we had soooo much fun! Jess your dip is AWESOME, can't wait till Monday.

Also, shout outs to Leah and Clint and Tiffany. Thanks for coming over and playing games with us. We needed a moment of fellowship! You guys are such awesome friends.

Tosha...wish you could've been here. Don't let Chris bother you too much, I know whatever was in Columbia/Hendersonville was WAY more important than us! ;-) haha

AM OUT!!

Lots to talk about

2005-10-21T21:29:00.000-07:00

First off, I apologize for the time it has taken me to get back here to update you all. Life has been BUSY for me. So busy, in fact, that I haven't even been able to play Sims2 since the week I got the Expansion Pack. Insane!!

My birthday was wonderful, thanks to the Girls night out. I spent my actual birthday at the Fall Festival for Turning Point Assembly of God. It was fun, and I got to spend a little time with Melissa, who is a friend of Scoot and Shay. She is attending Travecca University and is a sweet girl. We'll do lunch sometime Melissa!

After that I worked on catch up work for SSE, fought allergies, sang, attended Jess and Eddie's house party, signed a few clients (which you'll be hearing about soon), and barely had time to breathe! LOL

This past weekend, we were in Southern Illinois. We visited with family Thursday evening and Friday. Got to see all their new houses. I didn't get a chance to take a pic of my grandfather's new house, but I did get a pic of my Aunt's mansion! LOL It's not really a mansion, but it looks like one...see for yourself!

It's absolutely gorgeous...but she deserves it. She's worked her tail off for years!

Saturday we got to spend the evening at the MAGMA (Mid-America Gospel Music Association) Convention. This waas fun...got to hang out with several regional artists, make connections, have some sangin. LOL

Sunday we sang at a couple churches, getting the privelege to meet up with some old friends. Sunday night we got to go to dinner with a few. Their kids and Chris and I were all good friends and sang in the same kids choir. Course, they hadn't seen us since I was a youngin and Chris was dressed like a Rooster. Oh...fond memories. LOL

We came home on Monday, making sure we stopped by Wood Bakery. YUM!! Special thanks to our friend Leah who babysat for us. You are such a life saver, not to mention the only one willing to clean up after our puppies. YOU are the BOMB!!

Are allergies irritating anyone else this year? MAN, they are killing me.

The Fam and I went and saw a movie the other day. Two for the Money - It was good....I think I'm going to get Mom a big poster of Al Pacino for her Birthday in November. After seeing that movie, she' s already got screen shots of the movie on her puter. LOL It's quite comical.

This weekend is the SGN Reunion at River of Life. Tonight we had Harlan Burton, The Diggle Family, Living Proof, and HeartSong (also, Brad Smith - Emcee). Such awesome people...the fellowship afterwards was fun too!! I'm sure there will be pictures soon. Tomorrow if a big day...lots of sangin and fellowship. I think Chris and I are going to make a run or two to Starbucks, right next door to the church. Man am I addicted!!

Sunday, I will see Kym and "mom" and the babies. I haven't seen them in a few weeks and I miss them terribly. I need lots of hugs from Ms. Liberty Grace...and I must leave my kiss mark on Crosslan's forhead!! It's a must!!

I'm out, got lots more work to do.

OH!!! Couple sites I'm workin on...
Monroes Ministry
Turning Point Assembly
Crystal River (just about finished)

AM OUT!!

SURPRISE!!!

2005-09-30T10:58:00.000-07:00

Yes...that was the word I heard as I walked into the Outback Steakhouse.

Leah has planned a "girls night out surprise party" for me. It didn't really click with me, too much, but looking back now, I should've recognized all the signs. Kym called me earlier in the week, asking for Leah's phone number. I would've been all fine with that, but before she started to say goodbye she felt the need to explain why she needed Leah's number - Odd #1. Chris all day yesterday was irritating me bout going out with Leah and how he didn't get to go out. He kept saying, if I'm cheating, he's going to cheat (on our diets). - Odd #2 Getting into the car, Leah says, "do you mind if we stop by the theatre to see what time the shows start?" I said that I didn't mind. When we get close to the exit, she says, "you know what, I'm REALLY hungry. Why don't we just go to the restaurant, and we'll call Chris for movie times. I'm so hungry, I could eat this steering wheel." - Odd #3 When we actually get to the restaurant, the hostes looks at Leah and says, "are you all with the group"? Before I could say NO, Leah, says, "yes!" and starts to walk off - I couldn't even catch up to her... - Odd #4. I look straight ahead and see balloons and the tops of girls heads. LOL When I get there, they all yell "SURPRISE!" It was so cute! I about died...I was speechless.

Leah, Kym (who drove the longest to get there), Jess, Tiffany, Noel, and Ruth were awesome and I just have to say Thank You for making my night so very special!! I had SO much fun, you wouldn't believe it. Kym said I was lucky that I picked the restaurant, cause she was going to take me to Joe's Crabb Shack - if anyone knows what it's like to go there for your birthday you'll know that I would NOT have liked that. But Kym would've liked seeing me do goofy things! LOL We laughed hysterically. Leah & Noel got me a PINEAPPLE (a real pineapple) - the card said, "so that you'll always know what you're looking for", I also got The Sims 2, NIGHTLIFE expansion pack! How AWESOME! Ruth got me some awesome books. Kym got me a book "The Modern Girls Guide to Life" Funny stuff there!

Kym, Jess, and Tiffany all told stories on how they "new" they were going to marry their now husbands. It was too cute - but kinda sickening at the same time. LOL I don't think I've laughed so hard in all my life!! It was so much fun!!!

We then went on to Jess' house for some birthday cake, made especially by Jess!! Kym was supposed to follow Leah to Jess', but Leah ran a yellow light and left Kym at a red light. Leah told Kym, just go over the bridge (otherwise known as an overpass). Kym instead, got off onto the interstate. We were crackin up. Once we found Kym, and made it safely to Jess', the girls all sang happy birthday to me, quite loudly and OFF key! LOL It was very much unbearable but too cute to not listen too! Here is a pic of the cake, it was beautiful!! Tasted soooo good!! I'll leave out the fun we had with the cake and Jess' slice. That can be "just between us girls". (Tiffany and Ruth, we'll be glad to let you in on it if you want since you missed out on the cake! Wish you could've been there!) LOL

Next, we headed to the theatre for a late night movie. We went to go see Just Like Heaven. Leah was a little apprehensive about seeing this movie, but by the end, she was on the edge of her seat, clapping!! It was great! We laughed so hard during that movie, that peeps behind us were laughing AT us! LOL I don't know which was more fun, watching Jess and Leah's reaction to the movie, or just watching the movie with the girls! It was so exciting...laughing, crying, holding Kym back from throwing popcorn at the screen! LOL I loved it!!

I must say, I've never been much for "girls nights" and such. I've always had more guy friends, just cause girls are snooty! LOL Admit it girls, we are or can be. But, I had so much fun!! We must do it again girls!

Kym and I have done decided that we are not getting any older. This year will be our final birthdays! LOL Next year, I'll just repeat #27. LOL I told that to the waitress at the restaurant and she said, "that's right, you'll just be 27/99. I'm not quite sure what she meant by that unless she was speaking fractions. Leah caught me trying to make something up when asked about it...it didn't work.

Needless to say, I had a BLAST and I'm so thankful that God has brought all these wonderful chickadees into my life. We've done decided we were starting a societysimilar to the red hat society. Ours will be the Pineapple society! ;-p Classic!!

Off topic, I had to show you what I had to do with my puppy. He had an allergic reaction to fleas. Apparently one flea bite can set it off. He had to have his rear shaved to the skin. So, I decided that it would be best if we went ahead and shaved him, get rid of his long hair so he can get over this rash. He' looks quite funny now, but is still adorable. Leah says he's a little scary in the face, cause his eyes are a bit larger than his head. LOL He's my scary/adorable puppy though!! Here's a pic, then I'm OUT!

Big plans...

2005-09-29T11:14:00.000-07:00

So, TONIGHT, my friend Leah is taking me out for my birthday (which is saturday) to dinner and a movie. I'm so excited to get out and away from work, just have a girls night! I was thinking the other day of everything I've done on my birthday in previous years. Last year, I was off work (back when I worked at Goody's), but I worked at home for Southern Spin. The year before that I worked at Goody's - I'm thinkin I closed that night so I didn't get out till late. A couple years ago (I think it was my 20th or 21st birthday), Scott had planned a surprise party. I had absolutely no clue, until Scott was rushed to the Emergency Room a few days before, ended up staying there a little over a week. He told me later, that he was upset cause had planned a surprise party...I thought, well, how cool. Never had one of those before! LOL

I've got a little bit of work to get finished today, then I head out with Leah. Tomorrow night we (Sunday Edition) sing at a benefit concert for Hurricane Katrina Relief. BTW, we've updated the Sunday Edition site, check it out here.

I mentioned my friends Mercy's Well earlier, their site has been updated (finally! haha). You should check it out...it's pretty cool. http://mercyswell.com

Anyway, I wanted to leave with this bit of encouragement, for a few of my family members, friends, and whoever else needs it. It's just a little quote from my "source"!

⁸Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Phillipians 4:8

AM OUT!

Maybe another clue

2005-09-27T17:30:00.000-07:00

Ok...so TC's daddy emailed me. TC, what happened to you? He seems much sweeter than you! LOL

So, this email from BC was quite interesting. I feel for him, as he's got such a great responsibility in his work. I'm prayin for you BC! ;-)

He forwarded this on to me, and I thought it would maybe be another clue to this whole boy vs. girl thingy. I think the whole thing is that we (boys and girls) need to figure out the opposite sex. Not that we're ever gonna do that, because I truly believe God made us opposites for a reason. But hey, we can try, right?

So...maybe this might help BOYS understand a little bit about GIRLS! Or vice versa (thanks again BC):

Men Are Just Happier People -- What do you expect from such simple creatures?

Your last name stays put.
The garage is all yours.
Wedding plans take care of themselves.
Chocolate is just another snack.
You can be President.
You can never be pregnant.
You can wear a white T-shirt to a water park.
You can wear NO shirt to a water park.
Car mechanics tell you the truth.
The world is your urinal.
You never have to drive to another gas station restroom because this one is just too icky.
You don't have to stop and think of which way to turn a nut on a bolt.
Same work, more pay.
Wrinkles add character.
Wedding dress $5000. Tux rental-$100.
People never stare at your chest when you're talking to them.
The occasional well-rendered belch is practically expected.
New shoes don't cut, blister, or mangle your feet.
One mood all the time.
Phone conversations are over in 30 seconds flat.
You know stuff about tanks.
A five-day vacation requires only one suitcase.
You can open all your own jars.
You get extra credit for the slightest act of thoughtfulness.
If someone forgets to invite you, he or she can still be your friend
Your underwear is $8.95 for a three-pack.
Three pairs of shoes are more than enough.
You almost never have strap problems in public.
You are unable to see wrinkles in your clothes.
Everything on your face stays its original color.
The same hairstyle lasts for years, maybe decades.
You only have to shave your face and neck.
You can play with toys all your life.
Your belly usually hides your big hips.
One wallet and one pair of shoes, one color for all seasons.
You can wear shorts no matter how your legs look.
You can "do" your nails with a pocket knife.
You have freedom of choice concerning growing a mustache.
You can do Christmas shopping for 25 relatives on December 24 in 25 minutes.
No wonder men are happier

What ya think Sammy? ;-)

We all must pay...

2005-09-25T21:07:00.000-07:00

Sorry, but due to the comment Spammers, we all must pay the price. I've turned on Word Verification on my comments, to try to keep those nasty little buggers away.

Sorry for the inconvenience, but if you love me, you'll still comment! ;-)

AM OUT!

What is it?

2005-09-25T13:31:00.000-07:00

So, I'm sitting here at the Beauvais, recouping from my HUGE lunch. Apparently there was a mix up regarding how Jenna was getting home from church and she was stuck outside the house for a couples hours, till I got there to let her in. She's home now, and her friend Sarah came back into town, so they are upstairs chillin (or doing whatever teeny-boppers do).

Hurricane Rita has passed through TX and LA and the little bit left is heading our way. I HATE storms, with a passion. They make me feel extremely nervous and alone. The wind is really strong here and we have tornado watches effective till 7:00 pm. I sit with the Weather Channel on till it passes, watching every move of the storm. I can't imagine what those involved in the hurricanes near the gulf have gone through. My heart breaks for them. I have a couple baskets full of clothes I can no longer fit into (we won't talk about why) that I'm giving to the Red Cross. If I can't wear them, someone else should get to.

I've been thinking about this whole boy vs girl thing. I am not sure why I've been thinking about it so much. I'm really happy where I am right now; content. Lord knows I'd love to get married and have kids some day, but I'm not sure if that's what I'm ready for at this moment!

Anyway, I have been praying about it. Obviously Love hits you in different ways. You might have a moment of "love at first sight" or maybe you fall in love with a long time friend. I dunno...I do know that we as human beings have made this crazy little thing called love something much more complicated than it needs to be. We've labeled it so many different things. Today, Love can mean all sorts of things. Dictionary.com brings up 7 entries for love. Here's one of them:

love n.

A deep, tender, ineffable feeling of affection and solicitude toward a person, such as that arising from kinship, recognition of attractive qualities, or a sense of underlying oneness.
A feeling of intense desire and attraction toward a person with whom one is disposed to make a pair; the emotion of sex and romance.
Sexual passion.
Sexual intercourse.
A love affair.
An intense emotional attachment, as for a pet or treasured object.
A person who is the object of deep or intense affection or attraction; beloved. Often used as a term of endearment.
An expression of one's affection: Send him my love.
A strong predilection or enthusiasm: a love of language.
The object of such an enthusiasm: The outdoors is her greatest love.
Love Mythology. Eros or Cupid.
often Love Christianity. Charity.
Sports. A zero score in tennis.

We've been brought up to use the term "love" so lightly that we now use it to express a liking to something, rather than something so much more. I have become so accustomed to the term "love" as junk it was never intended to be. Maybe the reason why love has become so complicated to us is because we don't truly understand what love is.

So I went back to MY reference book.

1 corinthians 13 (as read in The Message)

If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don't love, I'm nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate.
²If I speak God's Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don't love, I'm nothing.

³If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.

⁴Love never gives up.

Love cares more for others than for self.

Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.

Love doesn't strut,

Doesn't have a swelled head,

⁵Doesn't force itself on others,

Isn't always "me first,"

Doesn't fly off the handle,

Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,

⁶Doesn't revel when others grovel,

Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,

⁷Puts up with anything,

Trusts God always,

Always looks for the best,

Never looks back,

But keeps going to the end.

⁸Love never dies. Inspired speech will be over some day; praying in tongues will end; understanding will reach its limit. ⁹We know only a portion of the truth, and what we say about God is always incomplete. ¹⁰But when the Complete arrives, our incompletes will be canceled.

¹¹When I was an infant at my mother's breast, I gurgled and cooed like any infant. When I grew up, I left those infant ways for good.

¹²We don't yet see things clearly. We're squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won't be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We'll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!

¹³But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love.

If you want the KJV it can be found here.

Romans 12:9-20 (as told in the New Living Translation)

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

If you want the KJV it can be found here.

The Lord really dealt with me on this last night, I must say. I've read these verses several times in the last 24 hours. I find myself asking myself before every action, "is this love?". These versus have so much more meaning to me. I love it when God shows me new stuff (or old stuff that appears to be new).

LOL Dad is ALWAYS running late out the door for church, and it irritates me so much. But today I couldn't hollar...I could only ask God to forgive me and keep teaching me what love is.
I know I've failed several times today already, but THANK GOD, He's forgiving and gently reminds me that there was only one perfect LOVE and someday the sun will "shine bright and we'll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!"

I think we as single people spend so much time trying to "find love" that we forget that it's not something we "find", but rather something we do, say, act, BE. How can we ever expect to "find it" if we aren't portraying it ourselves? We we are truly looking for is someone that portrays the qualities of love. Look at those versus again, those are qualities of the kind of person you really want to spend the rest of your life with, right?

I'm excited about my new found knowledge. I'm still learning...this love thing is quite a bit more difficult that one would imagine. But, I'm anxious to learn more.

Until then...AM OUT!

Boys vs Girls

2005-09-22T10:52:00.000-07:00

So Sammy and I have been talking quite a bit about boys and girls, and a situation I've seemed to put myself in. Just so you know, the situation is nothing serious, life-changing, friendship altering, or anything else catastrophic. LOL

I'm beginning to realize that I know a whole lot more about boys than I thought, it has just taken Sammy to REMIND me. Sammy makes valid points and in most cases is pretty neutral, however, sometimes the testosterone in him breaks out of the shell, I think just because it has to prove itself right! LOL I love ya Sammy, I really do.

I've learned that guys talk to each other and have apparently have "boy code", one of them being "bros before babes". In other words, two guys are interested in one girl, they talk, on expresses the interest before the other, he automatically "get dibs on the girl". I know, disgusting! LOL This would lead me to believe that boys aren't necessarily "respecting their bro" but rather "claiming shotgun" (so to speak). The trouble comes when the girl crushes on only one boy.

But, I was comparing it to how girls would react. We (girls) would definitely express it to another girl (we all know girls talk), but there's a chance of TWO different reactions. The first reaction would be that girlA would really and truly consider girlB to be her true FRIEND and would back off, allowing girlB to have a chance at the boy. The second reaction would that girlA just didn't care about girlB and would go after the boy anyway. Though Sammy says there is a "boy code", I still can't believe that guys wouldn't react the same way as the girls. There has to be some kind of a "good boy" around here somewhere right?

Later on, Sammy states the truth (FINALLY):

"truth be told, guys are dumb and totally lack confidence in ourselves"

The odd thing I find is that this is totally true for girls too, except we have a slight difference. Girls are dumb AND emotional, and totally lack confidence in ourselves. Granted, most girls won't want to admit this out loud, but it's totally true. Why else would we sit in front of the mirror, changing outfits 15 times before we decide exactly what to wear that will impress that certain guy. Come on, girls, just be honest. We're not sure if the guy we're crushin on is really into us, or is just being a good friend.

The great thing about all of this, though, is that GOD made us this way so that we would FIT together perfectly. The bad thing about it is that it's like the world's largest and longest game of chance. Each of us make a move, hoping it won't make the other person lose his/her turn, move back a space, or worse yet, allow someone else to gain control of the situation. Anyone who knows me, knows I do not play games well - especially if it's a game that requires some sort of "action/reaction".

Now the question to ask, my dear Sammy, is how do we (boys and girls) gain the self confidence to "play the game" and succeed?

Think about it...let me know if you come up with an answer!

My brain hurts....AM OUT!

How true...

2005-09-21T13:22:00.000-07:00

So, my friend "Scarely" sent me this and I thought Sammy would get a good kick out of it. It probably supports more of his theories:

Apples and Wine

Women are like apples on trees. The best ones are at the top of the tree. Most men don't want to reach for the good ones because they are afraid of falling and getting hurt. Instead, they sometimes take the apples from the ground that aren't as good, but easy. The apples at the top think something is wrong with them, when in reality, they're amazing. They just have to wait for the right man to come along, the one who's brave enough to climb all the way to the top of the tree. Share this with other women who are good apples, even those who have already been picked!

Now Men... Men are like a fine wine. They begin as grapes, and it's up to women to stomp the crap out of them until they turn into something acceptable to have dinner with.

So there ya go Sammy...if Scarely says it, it has to be true! ;-)

Pineapples vs Math

2005-09-19T12:29:00.000-07:00

So, I've been catching up on all my blog reading, and came across Sammy's blog. Apparently I've missed a bit of his blog, as I had to read about 4 posts back to understand what was going on.

I mentioned a little while ago, that Leah had categorized boys and girls into Pineapples and Apples. Sometimes there's a Strawberry or Banana or two, but those are RARE! LOL Her theory about girls and boys is quite fascinating. And I'm definitely agreeing with the girl!! Each person has a set amount of money to spend at the "fruit store". The "fruit store" being the "date (guy/girl) store". You're amount of money to spend is determined by what type of fruit you are. So, if you are a pineapple, you would have money to spend on other pineapples. But if you are an apple, you do not have enough money to spend on pineapples. In rare circumstances, Apples are able to purchase Pineapples, however if you look closely, you will notice that they were REDUCED for quick sell (it wasn't really a FRESH pineapple anyway). I pretty much agree with that. I'm an apple, and I seriously doubt that I could get a pineapple (Mom says I could, but I think she's doing that normal "mom thing").

Now Sammy on the other hand, he is on the verge of something great in trying to understand the opposite sex. He's using math or a formula (getting his idea from EHarmony) and I would say that he's on the right track, with a few exceptions. You can read the whole thing at his blog, but I'm going to go over a few excerpts here:

"I thought the best way to do this would be to just put guys and gals up against each other in a head-to-head style format, matching traits, characteristics, and anything else I deem worthy of consideration in an effort to look for commonalities, patterns, abnormalities, or anything else noteworthy"

His first round consisted of Personality traits:

1) Hair – ADVANTAGE: gals
2) Eyes – ADVANTAGE: guys
3) Nose – Girls typically stick their noses in a lot more places they don’t belong, though. ADVANTAGE: guys

Hmmm...As much as I don't want to, I will have to agree with him on the Nose thing! Come on girls, admit it, we stick our noses everywhere!

4) Mouth – another tossup. The bad, though, is that half of the stuff that does come out of our mouths is normally classified under that “bodily function” category and not as “verbiage.” Gals have mouths too, and although very few use it for the “bodily function” thing (which, I think more of them should; there’s something mildly fascinating—if not attractive—about a girl that burps), gals use their mouths way too much. ADVANTAGE: even.

Ok...Just so you know...I know plenty of girls who use their mouths as a "bodily function" rather than "verbiage".

5) Midsection – ADVANTAGE: gals
6) Lower body –The short of it, gals look good in tight jeans, shorts, dresses, sandals, tennis shoes, pumps, or any combination of the above. I never bothered to notice how guys look. ADVANTAGE: gals.

I had to laugh when I read #6! Comical - but typical guy statement!

Sammy's next round was Miscellaneous Demographic Data

1) Population – ADVANTAGE: even
2) Geography – Will somebody puh-LEEEZE tell me where single girls hang out? ADVANTAGE: guys

Sorry Sammy, but single girls don't want to frequent living rooms, bathrooms, game rooms, garages, clubs, bars, and electronic stores to find you single guys. Maybe we should come up with a singles meeting place.

3) Income – ADVANTAGE: guys
4) Age – If gals weren’t stomping our grapes so they’d put out more wine, we might live longer. Ever had your grapes stomped? ADVANTAGE: gals

Sammy, there ya go with more of those sexist remarks. You need someone who is neutral to help you!

5) Education & Age – ADVANTAGE: even

His third round is Psychographics

1) Personality: I also have no idea how to figure out gals’ personality type; it’s probably because I have no personality. ADVANTAGE: even

Finally, something we all agree on!! LOL Sammy = no personality! ;-)

2) Value-system: When making decisions, guys consider two things. How will “the guys” think, and what will girls think. Gals consider, um, many more things than this. “Will it cause me to look fat?” “Will this cause me to sleep less?” “What happens if it causes the end of the world?” “Can I pay with credit cards?” “What will Mom think?” “What will my puppy think?” “Will it leave the toilet seat up?” “Does it match my shoes?” All that just to pick out a loaf of bread. ADVANTAGE: guys

Sammy, if guys would be a little more considerate in their "value-system" girls wouldn't have to do so much "considering". For instance, this should automatically go to the girls because at least we don't leave the toilet seat up so that when you sit on it you fall right through. Not to mention, we are going to be well prepared if the world DOES end!

3) Response mechanisms: ADVANTAGE: guys

How can guys get this point? Guys don't have any response mechanisms..."walking it off" is not a response mechanism! But good try!

4) Primary hot button: ADVANTAGE: guys
5) Fears – Gals are scared of lots of things. They’re scared of being alone and not being taken care of. They’re scared of spiders, snakes, and other creepy-crawlies. They’re scared of being overweight, underweight, too tall, too short, too attractive, too ugly, too smart, too dumb, too hungry, too full, too bossy, too indecisive, too loud, and too quiet. They’re also scared of loaves of bread. Guys are scared of girls. ADVANTAGE: girls
6) Passions – Gals like lots of things too. They like group shopping trips and moonlit walks on the beach. They like intimacy and friendship and getting to know people while shopping at the mall. They like a sense of humor and intelligence in the clerks at the stores where they shop. And I’ve heard they also like shopping and shoes. Guys like girls; and doing things with girls. ADVANTAGE: girls

You're confusing me Sammy! Now the girls are getting the point because they fear TOO much, or have more passions, when above we couldn't get points because we had too much on our "value-system" plate. CONSISTENCY, sammy!! ;-)

The final round of Sammy's formula/math problem is Wild Cards:

1) Initiation – In spite of what it may do to the space-time continuum, I’m going to reveal to all gals how to know if a guy’s interested in them: we talk to you. It’s that simple. If we want food, we go to the store; if we want shelter, we go to the house. If we want lovin, we go to the girl. It’s that friggin simple. Gals, on the other hand, throw out so many varying signals that we don’t know whether you want us to stay on base or attempt to advance on the next pitch (that’s guy-speak for “BE MORE OBVIOUS”). Sometimes gals talk to guys because they’re interested, other times its because they’re just being nice, or that they have nothing better to do. And there’s no rhyme or reason to their conversation. There’s no hints or structure or anything different about a “hey baby” conversation from a “poor baby” conversation. That sucks. ADVANTAGE: guys

I'll give you this one, Sammy. However, if guys already KNOW that girls want you to do show them more than "TALKING" why can't you flirt a little, do something. When a conversation with a guy consists of "Did you see that game last night?" how are we to know that you are interested?

I do see your point though. We girls struggle with so many emotions, sometimes we want you to stay on the base and sometimes we want you to advance to the next plate. LOL But as we were just talking today, guys say things they don't really mean, so as to not look like an idiot or a jerk. How are we to know the difference?

This point really should've been EVEN!

2) Interaction – ADVANTAGE: even

AGREED!!

3) Intangibles – ADVANTAGE: the intangibles.

Ok...so you scored it at Guys 8, Gals 6, Intangibles 1. So what's that mean? LOL I mean you did all this because...

Guys will be guys and girls will be girls. As much as we don't want to, we all must play the game of boys vs girls. I say we all just be honest with each other. Hey, I like you, you like me, let's go out! LOL If only it really worked that way!

Maybe someday we'll figure it out, Sammy! Until then, why you wastin all this time thinking about how girls and boys act??? Go use your knowledge and get you a good girl! ;-)

AM OUT!

NQC and Shouts

2005-09-18T23:03:00.000-07:00

I have to post my comments on the recent "REAL" awards I recieved in my inbox this week while at NQC. While at first reading them, I was quite shocked and then irritated, now I just wanna know, where’s Southern Spin’s actual award? I have the perfect place for it. ;-) I had more to say on the subject, but I’ve decided not to say it. Sometimes, things are better left unsaid.

So, on to more important things…I met so many wonderful peeps at NQC. We had so much fun. Awesome things beginning to happen, I seriously cannot wait for you all to find out. God is opening so many doors for us. We were thrilled with the turn outs at our showcases. We couldn’t have asked for better performances from our Clients. It was AWESOME. I’ve been on a somewhat high this week, just thinking about what God is doing and going to do.
Just thought I’d say that I did get to see Scoot sing at the NQC and he sang beautifully! So did Randy, TC, and Dallas!! Stewart wasn’t half bad himself! ;-) Dixie Echoes and Signature Sound Quartet were about the only groups I got to see this year. Yeah, I know you’re shocked, Scoot…I only went to go see QUARTETS – Go Figure!

A couple of shout outs:

To my friend Steven Cooper. We got to chat for just a few minutes Saturday night, while tearing down our booth. Maybe next year you can holler at me and we’ll hang out! Maybe you’ll even be singing again!! Keep in touch!

The Dills!! You guys ROCK! I’m so glad that we got a chance to chat and get acquainted somewhat! I can’t wait to see where God places you and your ministry! Just keep on singing it!!

To Brad and Greg of Mercy’s Well. I look forward to chatting with you some more. Thanks for letting me get away from work for a few minutes (ok – HOURS) and hang with ya! Ya’ll are ABSOLUTELY awesome!

To my buddies, The New Plainsmen Quartet! Oh my goodness, you KILL me! I haven’t laughed so hard in my entire life. Thanks for always being full of joy and passing it on to others. I LOVE hanging out at your booth after a long and full day at NQC. Same time same place next year!

Leah girl, thanks for taking care of my baby puppy dogs, even though I know you wanted to be at NQC. You are THE woman! I owe you so much. Thanks for encouraging me – you know what I’m talking about. Help me to stay in reality ok girl?

Shay, we missed you this year at NQC. Take care of your family and maybe we’ll see you next year. Don’t worry, I handled TC on my own! He don’t scare me none! ROFLOL

Hope’s Call!! I love you guys! You are such an encouragement to me and my family. You are our fans but most of all our FRIENDS! Thank you for believing in us and our talent! God is taking you all places you can’t even begin to fathom!! Just wait!

The QUICKS! Ya’ll are so awesome! We must get together to watch another movie on your tiny TV! LOL

I know I’ve got more, but I don’t have time! I’ll get some more shout outs in my later posts!!
On a side note: My birthday is coming up in a couple weeks. Two full weeks to be exact. October 1 I will turn the big 27. I was a little bummed at first, but after talking with a few friends about “getting older” and where we are today, I have to say that I’m not quite as bummed. I do hope I can get out and do something that day. I don’t care if it’s even hanging out with some friends and playing mini-golf or something. I just don’t wanna be sitting at home workin! LOL Seems the last couple years have turned out that way. Maybe I can get a few peeps together. I might even be able to sweet talk someone into buyin my dinner! ROFLOL

I’m currently (officially) wore out from this past week. I will be sleeping late tomorrow, so don’t no peeps call me until after 12:00 pm. LOL Seriously, I’m wore out, but I am so excited about getting to work on the NEW things we got going on!!

Until then….AM OUT!!

NQC update

2005-09-16T14:34:00.000-07:00

So, I know I haven't updated every day. I figured that would happpen! LOL

Things have been busy here. We've got great news to announce, new peeps being added to the Southern Spin Family. Can't wait to share it with you!!

We are having a blast. Thanks Leah for missing us and calling every day to find out what's going on! LOL We appreciate you!

Our showcases were AWESOME. All of our groups were exceptional!!! We had a great crowd both days. Special thanks to Valor, Inheritance Trio, Amazed, and Mercy's Well for singing...helping us out! We totally appreciate it!!

Right now, I have about 15 minutes before the singing starts and all the crowd moves into the auditorium. I hate crowds, and from 4-6 pm you can't even move in the aisles it's so crowded.

I gotta go...I gotta find someone who'll buy me one of those amazing ice cream cones!!!

What's happening at the NQC

2005-09-12T22:25:00.000-07:00

So, we are here. Finally, at the NQC. It has seemed like forever to get here, but at the same time I can't believe it's already here.

It's already been a long trip and it's just getting started. We left Saturday, so we could get to the hotel and relax a bit. Sunday we got up and had breakfast at The Biscuit Place (otherwise known as Cracker Barrell), then we headed up to the Expo Center to put together the booth. It went together fairly easy, surprisingly! We went back to the hotel where we all took naps and showers and then went out to eat with Gary Allen of HeavenSound.com, our dear friend Mary Mohan, Karen and John Ghormley, and a few other peeps!! We even sang "Happy Birthday" to a total stranger. Turns out they are a group who is attending the NQC and we are discussing some Southern Spin services with them. Weird how God puts people in your paths huh?

A couple highlights for me during the afternoon showcase:
Soul'd Out Quartet - WOW! These boys can sing!!
Shiloh Quartet - These guys had some sound difficulties, but handled the situation with grace and perfection! Choosing to do two classic songs, a cappella. GREAT job!!
Mercy's Well - This group has improved greatly since last year. I was very impressed. I'm sure you'll be hearing more about them soon! Their site is temporarily under construction, but Brad Strider (owner of the group) says it will be up and running soon. Brad also runs BCreative. He is an amazing designer whom I wish would teach me all his tricks! LOL
The Dills - These peeps are sweet and amazing vocalists! I'm glad I've had the privilege to get to know them.
Embrace and The Pathfinders - Of course I gotta mention my own clients!!! Great job guys!! As always!!
Greater Faith - These boys are pretty good too! We have a LOT of young talented singers coming up, ready to walk in the steps of the classic quartets. It's awesome!
I'm sure there are more, but it's after 1:00 am and I can't think now! LOL

I didn't get a chance to go in and hear any quartets tonight. Although there were a few I would've liked to hear. Dixie Echoes being one of them, as I've yet to meet TC and I wanted to hear them with TC and Dallas. Scoot said they were singing again on Saturday, so I will hopefully get to see them then. I also wanted to see Brian Free and Assurance. Brian has the world's greatest lead singer, I love to hear Bill Shivers sing!

A shout out to my friend Leah who is staying with my puppy doggies while we are away. I miss them bunches, but I know she is loving the time away from her house at this moment! I also know that she has PLENTY of time to think of more apples/pineapples/strawberries theories. LOL Thanks to Jess, Leah was able to hear us perform on the Afternoon Showcase today. Thanks Jess for calling her and giving her the play by play!

Also, a special thanks to Johnny Minick for coming and singing with us. Johnny is a guest singer on our new single, "He Keeps Lifting". It's AWESOME, and I'm so excited to send it out to Radio. Thanks Aaron for making us sound beautiful!!

Right now, I'm heading to get some beauty sleep. Lord knows I need that! LOL

AM OUT!

Venting...topic - Respect

2005-09-05T13:17:00.000-07:00

I just have to let off a little vent.

Have you ever noticed that growing up the word "respect" is etched into your brain, so that you'll never forget it. This is especially true if you are raised in the south, where "no/yes sir, yes/no ma'am" is the only acceptable answer to any question. My siblings and I were raised partly in Southern Illinois, near East St. Louis. We were never taught to use the words "sir" or "ma'am". When we moved to Mississippi, we learned quickly that just "yes" or "no" was not an acceptable answer. We were warned by several teachers and adults that we had to say "sir" or "ma'am".

I thought this rather humorous, really. We really weren't being rude, we were just answering the way we were taught to answer. How were we to know that our normal way of answering questions was considered disrespectful in the south? The thing I did find was that those teachers and adults never took the time to think that maybe my up-bringing did not include sirs and ma'ams.

That really has nothing to do with my next point, but I thought I'd give myself time to calm down before I start posting my real "vent". RESPECT! I learned it quickly in Mississippi (or Missippi as some called it). Sirs and ma'ams, Misses and Mr's, Thank yous and no thank yous, etc. When dealing with other people, I do my best to acknowledge that others do not have the same bringing-up as I do, so I can excuse most of what I would consider rudeness.

What I can't excuse is the lack of respect some in this industry have poured out on my brother (Chris) and I. I guess we still haven't hit that age of adulthood yet, or you would think, by the way some post about us. The thing that gripes me the most is that we have worked our rear ends off the last 3 years, building a respectable (though some think/treat not) business. You may not like what we do, or the decisions we make, but that gives you no right to treat us as though we are still in grade school. Trust me, we've been around the block a few times. I guess one has to be in their early 40's to be considered knowledgable in anything SG.

For the record, our name is NOT "unthank kids". Our name is Chris and Amy. We were not born into the world as "unthank kid #1" and "unthank kid #2". Neither was our name given to us to be used in a farce manner, (i.e. unthankyou, unthankfull, unthanking, etc.) We heard that when we were in grade school, and I would expect it from grade schoolers. However, we are all adults now, I assume we could start acting as such.

I suppose this is one of those things that you see from time to time, and you put it off as being idiotic, not worth your time. But then one person does or says something that hits that last nerve and you just can't take it anymore.

It's called respect people...

AM Out!

Babies and Concerts

2005-09-03T10:57:00.000-07:00

So, Thursday, I held a baby luncheon for Kym (my best friend), who just had Crosslan Chase Wooten, about three weeks ago. He's so adorable.

I took a few pics and thought I'd show them to you!

Leah, her sister Noel, Jessica Harrison, my pastor's wife - Sherry Minick, Kym, and her Mom were all in attendance. I was expecting a few more, but they had to cancel at the last minute.

Leah is in the purple, Noel is in the green and black striped shirt, and Jess is the skinny one in the cream blouse. Mom-Nita (Kym's mom) is in the pink and black striped shirt, and Sherry is in red. Kym is obviously the one holding all the presents! LOL

In just a few minutes we will leave for Dickson, TN, where we are singing with Mike Bowling, Christlike, Hope's Call, Terry Hagan, The Dills (whom I've never met and anxious to hear), and a brother/sister duet-Kindle. You can find more information here: http://terryhagan.com

This is going to be a good concert. Terry is trying his hardest to draw a younger crowd. I think he's got a great line-up and I'm anxious to see if his plan worked!

I'll try to remember to take my camera so I can post some more pics for ya.

Gotta go try to beautify myself...AM OUT!

Gatlinburg update

2005-08-31T21:01:00.000-07:00

Gatlinburg was AWESOME! I had so much fun. We had a small group go this year, but it was still so fun. We spent a lot of time in the cabin. It was so fun. First night we got there about 11:00 pm, and we stayed up till about 4:00 am. We played cards ( THE Steve and I are an awesome Spades team), put together a muppet puzzle, talked all night, laughed even more than we talked, and munched on chips and dip!

Thursday we all woke up around 1:00 pm. Ok, so I woke up around 1:00 pm. Everyone else was already up for an hour. The boys had cooked french toast and pankcakes, with eggs and bacon. I only got bacon cause by the time I woke up everyone had eaten everything. Poor Nathan offered to fix me something else, but it was ok, I figured we'd go eat sooner or later. We hung out at the cabin again. We decided to go out for dinner. We went further into Gatlinburg and ate at Howard's Restaurant. It was so good, although Chris didn't enjoy his burger much. Their fried mushrooms are to die for. Thanks to THE Steve for those! After Howards, we went putt puttin at Professor Hacker's Lost Treasure Golf and go-cartin (don't remember the place) down in Pigeon Forge. I am no good at go-cartin or putt putt!

When we got back to the cabin, we stayed up again until 3:00 am. Woke up late again, but decided to go to The Aquarium. It was fun. We got to see LOTS of big sharks, try to pet stingrays (the only person of the group they came even close to was Leah, I almost got my hand bit off by a small little shark). Afterwards we went back to the cabin and I cooked a whole bunch of Chicken Cheese Enchiladas. The Enchilada sauce was quite nasty, so they didn't turn out the way I wished. My fellow cabiners were great chums about it though!

I went to bed earlier, and others stayed up late. We had to get up early to be out of the cabin by 11:00 am. We went and played more Putt Putt (Leah got free tickets), then headed to Sevierville and visited the Tanger Outlet Center. Chris and I spent way too much money, but got some cool items!! Afterwards we stopped at Chili's in Knoxville. We had so much fun, we were laughing so hard. Apparently, the woman behind us couldn't hear her 80 year old mother (go figure taking your 80 year old mother to Chili's - loud music, a bar, etc). She turned around and was quite rude. Told us to be quiet - no please, thank you, kiss my foot, nothing! She glared at us as we walked out. I couldn't stop laughing at how ridiculous she was. If the manager had come to us and told us we were being too loud, it would've been one thing. It was just ironic to me that she would bring her 80 year old mother to a restaurant that is under normal conditions hard to hear the person your with. LOL

Overall, the trip was AWESOME!! I would so do it again, only next year, I hope to go to a big city!! I'll try to post pics soon!!

Gotta go, my hair color is done! LOL

AM OUT!!

Semi/Mini Vacation

2005-08-23T21:34:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I won't be posting for the next few days as I'm off to Gatlinburg for a semi-mini vacation.

I'm going to try to remember to pack the camera so that I can show you some cool pics when I return. However, I'm not promising anything. LOL I've had a really rough emotional roller coaster week, and I need this desperately. Please say a prayer for us as we travel there and back. Chris and I need the R&R (so do mom and dad, thus the reason we are leaving them behind! - LOL)

Things have been so busy here. I can't believe the emails we're getting for potential clients. It's always this way right around NQC, but every year really seems to amaze me more. I cannot wait for NQC, it's our time to sit and talk with our clients and other groups we hold dear. We are anxiously awaiting to spend time with our SG friends.

Southern Spin just signed Psalm 101. We are extremely excited about working with this fine group. I hope you'll take a look at their site and familiarize yourself with them.

I'm outta here...gotta finish up some work before we head out!

AM Out!

Change

2005-08-21T21:01:00.000-07:00

I hope you like the change. I've been contemplating it for awhile now. Change is good for the most part. I just think I needed something different. Today I feel as though my whole life just needs something different. Ever have one of those days? Craziness.

I got to hang out with Baby Crosslan today for a little while. I have pics, but not with me. I hope to have some up for you within the next few days.

We spent the morning and early afternoon driving back home from Chattanooga. We performed at the SGM Fan Fair. The crowd was quite low, but maybe in the next year or two they will have a better crowd. We were just excited to be with Daryl Williams and Victory Express. Oddly enough we all are from Murfreesboro, just don't get a chance to sing together (as groups) much. Daryl is always leading the choir at church, so I don't get to hear his group much, and Victory Express is back after breaking a bit for Tammy to recover from her Bone Marrow Transplant. We did perform on the morning DJ Man Promotions Showcase. That was fun. We sang with so many groups. Steve Wilson and the Wilsons, Kendall, Hope's Call, Tennessee Harmony, Everlasting Hope, Rejoice, Terry Helms, Reign Song, and more I know I just can't think of them!

Tonight I am at the Beauvais, while Hope's Call is on the road for 10 days. Jenna is sick with Strep Throat. I am staying far from her, as I leave for a mini-vacation Wednesday. I do not want to be sick for this trip. I was sick last year. Tomorrow is a BIG work day. I've got lots to do to get caught up before I head out, Wednesday.

I do wanna say a shout out to my friend Leah, who's blog I thoroughly enjoy. Her most recent topic on Apples and Pineapples is extremely interesting especially if you're a single person. LOL

I'm out....I gotta get Josh up for School at 6:00 am. Is there even such a time?

The baby , broken knuckles, and Winn-Dixie

2005-08-12T21:23:00.000-07:00

Well, not so good news for Crosslan Chase. He is still in the hospital. I am not totally sure, but I believe he is having problems with the oxygen level in his blood now. His momma (Kym) is not so happy at this point. She wants to take her baby home. I can't blame her. They have put him on some type of medication. The docs said they won't even consider releasing him until they can monitor him for at least 3 days. The earliest he could possibly go home is Sunday, which will make it exactly a week from his birth. Please say a short prayer for him and his momma if you get a chance.

Today I gave Magnum a bath. Afterwards, he apparently needed to go outside. While tightening my grip on the leash as he darted outside, Maggie met the end of the leash. When he did, it jerked my arm out the door, hitting the doorframe. Thus the result in a BIG FAT bruised knuckle. I thought for a moment I broke it, it throbbed so bad, and hurt a bit to bend the knuckle. It's still sore and a bit swollen, but at least I can still type.

Tonight, I cooked myself dinner (haven't done that in awhile). Turkey Italian Sausage with diced tomatoes, Northern Beans, and a salad. Chris and I started Weight Watchers yesterday. We figure that and the biking should help us drop a few poundage (hopefully). Anyway, while eating dinner I watch Because of Winn-Dixie. It was totally cute. I tried watching it the other night with Chris and Leah, however they both got bored with it. Usually Dad is into these kinds of movies and will watch them with me; we usually cry at the same parts. LOL However, Dad didn't even pay attention to this one. It's no fun to cry over a movie alone.

A week and a half left till my vacation to Gatlinburg. I've got a lot of things to do yet before we leave. Two weeks after our vacation is NQC. This has been one busy summer. I hope it slows down just a little. I could use a moment to myself.

AM OUT!!

Forgot

2005-08-08T21:14:00.000-07:00

I forgot to tell you that Crosslan Chase was born on the 7th of August, weighed 7 lbs and 7 ounces, and was 20.5 inches long.

Welcome into the world...

2005-08-08T13:49:00.000-07:00

So, I must say welcome to the world, little Crosslan Chase Wooten. Kym had her baby yesterday around 4:30 est. She wasn't due till the 20th, but he decided he wanted to come early.

Liberty stayed the night with me for two days, and we headed up to the hospital (or hostipal as she pronounces it) in Chattanooga to see Momma and the new baby. She was glowing and the baby is beautiful!!! I even got to hold him for a moment.

I headed home after dropping Liberty off and holding the baby. Found out this morning that they had to put little Crosslan in prenatal care. Apparently he ended up getting fluid on his lungs during the birthing process. He seems to be doing much better now, and will probably get to stay with his mom tonight in the room. They will probably go home tomorrow.

I gotta go finish working. I'll post a pic when I get one from Mom(Nita).

GMFF end and more

2005-08-02T15:15:00.000-07:00

So, I apologize for not updating on the rest of GMFF. It was awesome. Friday night was so good. Jody Brown Indian Family, Hope's Call, McRaes, Talley Trio, Apostolic Boys, Sondra Burnett, The Pathfinders, Christlike, and Jimmy Fortune were all AMAZING.

Saturday Night was the Imps, Kirk Talley, Daryl Williams Trio, Mercy's Mark, Judy Martin Hess, Master's Voice, and Inheritance Trio. It was so awesome. Joyce Martin showed up both Friday and Saturday nights...we got her to sing on "The Promise" on Friday night.

All the groups were so excited to be there and worked well with us. I totally appreciate that.

I cannot wait to tell you who we already have for next year. You can read about this year's by going to the front page of GMFF Website (http://gospelmusicfanfestival.com) There are pics there too...just ignore the fat one's of me.

Tonight Chris and I are going to have dinner with The Quicks. They are fixing us hot wings (yum)! I'm so excited about what God is doing for this group. Maybe I'll have more to share with you. With Tim Quick being the nut he is, you never know what is going to happen!

On my way out, I'd thought I'd leave you with the World's Shortest Personality Test! It's pretty cool, and the moodiness part is definitely true!!! LOL

You are dependable, popular, and observant.
Deep and thoughtful, you are prone to moodiness.
In fact, your emotions tend to influence everything you do.

You are unique, creative, and expressive.
You don't mind waving your freak flag every once and a while. And lucky for you, most people find your weird ways charming!

The World's Shortest Personality Test

AM OUT!!

Second Night of GMFF

2005-07-28T22:37:00.000-07:00

WOW!! All I can say is WOW! I'm not sure how this event can get any better, but I have a funny feeling it will.

We had a PACKED house tonight...we were struggling to find room to seat everyone. It's so exciting to see God take this event and expand it. It's awesome!!

Tonight we had the Mystery Men Quartet start out the evening. They didn't have to open, cause the crowd was already in place and ready to go, right at 6:30 pm. It was amazing how "prepared" the fans were. Mystery Men Qt did a wonderful job, some great traditional quartet stuff.

Up next were was HisSong. These boys can ever more sing you out of your seat!! They sang their current release "Closing Time" and ended their set with "Three Words, Three Nails, Three Days". Had the crowd on their feet. Such an awesome group.

Then Jonathan White came on. He is an amazing Tenor. This boy can definitely hold his own. He totally impressed the crowd with "Passion of the Christ". He ended up getting a standing ovation.

After that the Booth Brothers. Not only are these guys talented singers, these guys are absolute fun!! Michael Booth is a RIOT! Poor Ronnie and Jim have to put up with him. They did a beautiful acoustic version of "Through It All". Another fav of these boys is "The Blind Man Saw It All"! These guys are TIGHT!

Then Sunday Edition performed...I wish I could've been better vocally. But we made it through.

After SE...we brought on Gold City. What can be said about this classic group? They've still got it!! Steve Ladd sang a beautiful song called "About the Cross". They ended up closing their set with a song Dad requested, "When He Calls". These boys have church!

After Gold City came Three Bridges. These guys are another fun group. They get up there and sing their heart out!! My favs of the evening by them are "Cooling Water" and "I'm a Soldier". "I'm a Soldier" is THEIR song, and they do it so well. They get the crowd going!

Tonight was so fun!! Even if I was the only girl singer! LOL

Tomorrow afternoon is a showcase with Jonathan White, Imperials, Janice Peavey, Brad Smith (former bass singer for New Speers), James Hales (Staff Writer of SGN), and First Love.

Tomorrow Evening concert is full of awesome talent: Apostolic Boys, Christlike, Jody Brown Indian Family, Jimmy Fortune, Sondra Burnett, McRaes, Hope's Call, The Talleys, and The Pathfinders.

yeah!! AM OUT!

First night of GMFF

2005-07-27T22:28:00.000-07:00

Ok, it's late, so I'm not going to write long. BUT, I have to tell you that we had a BLAST the first day of the Gospel Music Fan Festival. The crowd was wonderful! We are expecting more people through out the rest of the weekend, and I'm pumped!!

Psalm 101 was incredible. Their little boy was the cutest thing, and could play that harmonica pretty good. Sweet people and such a joy to be around. I'm so glad they got to come out.

Mike Bowling came up and sang his heart out. He was awesome as usual. I love to hear this man sing. What a beautiful voice.

Then Mike introduced The Bowlings (Mike's brother's group). Unfortunately their other singer couldn't make it, so Mike filled in. WOW...what a group! Exciting things are happening for them, I cannot wait!!

Then Sunday Edition got to sing. Thankfully my voice seemed to be back to normal for the 15 minutes we sang. We tried out a couple of new songs and I believe they went over well.

Crabb Family was next. They were AMAZING! They always are. My fav song of the evening though was "Redeemer". Wow, can they forevermore sing that song!

After the Crabb Family came Johnny Minick. He started off with a duet with Angie Prim (I mentioned this several blogs ago I think it's titled "Were You There?"). Johnny then invited Aaron (his son) up for a couple numbers. Johnny just went all out for special guests, cause he also brought up Allison Durham Speer, Brad Smith, and Mike Allen.

It was SUCH a blessing tonight. There was such a sweet spirit of praise and thanksgiving to our Lord and Savior. We just plain had church! LOL

I'll try to give an update each night, but now it gets to be really busy....

Till then...AM OUT!!

From the Heart - Revisited

2005-07-23T21:44:00.000-07:00

Since I'm extremely busy with the Gospel Music Fan Festival, I thought I'd go back and get the very first (or first I have record of) "From the Heart" article I wrote for SouthernGospelNews.com. I no longer write them. I just got too busy. Maybe I'll post the 5 or 6 that I have in the next couple blogs. I'm a little proud of them, mostly because I'm not a writer. LOL

So..without any further interruption:

************************

From the Heart- July 31, 2003

Funny how recently all my topics seem to come from the SoGospelNews.com Message Boards. If you like good discussion, this is the place to be. Though we can get pretty heated, we all do love each other and bless each other in so many different ways.

For instance, one member started a topic titled “That Empty Feeling...The day after a SG concert”. He then asked the question, “Does anyone else feel sad the day after a much anticipated concert or series of concerts?” This thought really struck home to me. It came the day after SoGospelNews.com’s 4^th Annual Convention. What a wonderful time we had with outstanding talent, beautiful fellowship, and a great time in the Lord. The house was packed and we were in heaven. Visiting with old friends was a blast and meeting new ones was even more fun. We were all there for one reason and one reason only, to enjoy a day of awesome Southern Gospel Music (old and new)! From old fashioned quartets to progressive mixed trios, what ever style you like, it was there.

But, oh, how sad it was to say Goodbye. Somehow we all felt connected (well, at least I did and I ain’t afraid to admit it). How I dreaded going back to work that Monday morning. Some of you know this feeling. All your heart longs to do is celebrate this music and the message it brings, yet you have to come back to reality eventually and go back to work. Maybe this is on my heart to encourage the artists who go weekend after weekend and come home to their “real” jobs on Monday. Though the life of a full time artist is not always as beautiful as my mind thinks it is, neither is the life of a part timer longing to get that one person, who could forever change their lives, to hear them.

Many long nights go into singing this wonderful music we call Southern Gospel. Many working men and women give of their spare time, time they could be spending with their families and friends. Thank you to all of you, full or part time. Thank you for giving me something that I don’t ever want to end. Friendships that will last eternally and joy that will hold me over till I reach the “streets of gold”. Once we reach the everlasting shore, we’ll no longer feel empty and long for out SG nights to last forever! I believe we’ll be singing “Victory in Jesus” together for a LONG while!

************************

AM OUT!!

2005-07-19T12:03:00.000-07:00

Before I left for Steve Hurst School I sent out an email to family and friends regarding my mom. I just asked for prayer for her eye sight. I believe with all my heart that God is a healing God, and just as he moves the sun to shine every morning, he can move the blockage of blood flow to Mom's eye and give her back full sight!

Anyway, I received a letter from my Aunt in reply to the email I sent. She said she was praying for mom and then shared a little bit about my Grandpa's progress. For those of you who don't know, my Grandfather has been diagnosed with Alzheimers. He is currently staying in a Nursing Home, due to some medical problems that he recently had. When his health returns fully, he should be able to go back home.

I have to say I was so moved by the email. The love of my grandparents that is still apparent, even through this disease, totally blesses me! Here is what my aunt said:

"Grandpa came to my house on Saturday and did quite well. He came Saturday morning and we took him back to the facility after dinner. He and Mom would hold hands and he would wink at her often and tell her he loved her over and over. I think they both had a good day. When we took him back, he did great until we started to leave. He wanted to know who was going to stay with him and how would he get to us if he needed us. I told him that he was in his bed right now and that we were all tired and we needed to go to our beds. That seemed to satisfy him for the moment. He did great all day and then at the end he became confused. I do not understand that terrible disease."

It is sad that this disease would take a man who was always brave, strong, and head of his household. But it's good that there are days when he is happy, and seemingly the man we grew to love. It's sad! But then I have to think, would my grandma have gotten that moment, that day, to love on my Grandpa? My Grandpa may not remember that moment the next day, but for that moment, that day, he was happy and in love.

Watching my Grandpa become basically a child again is frustrating. I want to remember him as he was. He was the man who let us girls "fix his hair" with Grandma's rollers! LOL He was the man who cleared his throat at the dinner table just before he ate. He was the man who would play Dominoes with my Grandma and all us grandkids. He was the man who would smirk whenever he heard a funny joke. He was the man who would say "Excuse Bill!" everytime he belched. He was/is the man that loved my Grandma and wasn't afraid to show it.

God is good. I totally cannot deny that fact. I know that whatever the Lord's will is for my Grandpa, God will still be in control. So, even if my Grandpa is not healed on this earth, the healing he will receive when he goes to be with the Lord will be exceedingly, abundantly, above all that he/we could think or ask.

That's just the way God works!

AM Out!

Finally and update

2005-07-18T21:09:00.000-07:00

What a week! I am so tired, but I am so blessed! This past week we have been at the Steve Hurst School of Music. Dad and I taught and then at the end of the week, Chris and I held a seminar on "Marketing 101". God moved in so many ways this year at the school. I wish every singer could have a chance to be a part of this school. It's so inspiring and encouraging. You've never experienced anything like it, I promise. Plus, there's nothing like staying up till 3:00 in the morning, laughing hysterically, all the while knowing you have to get up at 6:00 am to take someone to the airport (right Leah??)!!

We announced the coming of our new division, Southern Spin Artist Direction. Our goal was to "unveil" it the week of Steve Hurst's School, however, we were unable to do that. Time has gotten away from us and we are a little behind. We are looking at the month of August sometime.

I did get to finish a couple of sites, must say a big thanks to my Mother, for her help! I got a little behind and she willingly helped me get caught back up. While you're out and about on the net, check them out:
http://vocalive.com
http://sharronkayking.com

You'll be glad to know that Dad is doing much better. His eyes are still watering a bit, but the doc said it could take up to 6 weeks for his eyes to heal from the surgery. Mom also is doing much better. It's amazing what a prayer can do!! Thank you all for your prayers and emails.

Today has just been an "blah" day. We are so tired from the last week, none of us wanted to work. LOL So we slugged through the work day and then left to go out to dinner. It was just Mom, Chris, and myself. We ate at Jason's Deli (it's quite similar to McAlister's, but better!). They had the best Gingerbread Muffins. I haven't had them in forever!

After dinner we went to go see the movie, Mr. & Mrs. Smith! Absolutely comical movie. It was a little slow at the beginning, but it had some awesome one liners in it!

Anyway, I thought I would update, so that peeps would get too worried. I'm off to work a bit more and then head to bed. I haven't caught up on my sleep yet. Next week is Gospel Music Fan Festival. Pray for me! LOL

Surgery, Lightning, Work, Hospital, and more

2005-07-09T00:11:00.000-07:00

First, let me say that it has been an incredibly busy week. Dad had his eye surgery and came through it very well. Wasn’t much to talk to afterwards! LOL I just didn’t think it was fair that he got free plastic surgery in this situation. (For those who don’t know, he had stopped up tear ducts, causing his eyes to water constantly. The doc snipped a whole in his tear duct and then tightened the bottom eye lid so that the duct would stay open). Dad says he looks 10 years younger now, but I’m not sure I believe him. What do you think?? :-)

The next day I was out running an errand and it stormed a bit. When I came home, I found out that lightening had hit the tree right outside our house. Fortunately, it did no damage but to the tree. I’ve got pics to show you all! Thought you’d like to see it. The tree sits directly in front of Mom and Dad’s desk. Mom was workin at her computer at the time. Freaky huh?

Work has kept me away from my blog. It’s kept me away from Sims 2, also. I haven’t been able to play Sims 2 in almost 2 weeks. Someday things will calm down enough that I can play it. We’ve been so busy we’ve missed all but one day of biking this week. Next week I don’t think I’ll have any time to go biking, but maybe the walk around the campus will help keep my legs in shape for when we start back the week after. Don’t tell Chris, but I sorta miss it. It was/is a great stress reliever. I’m up to 12 miles a day. Hooray for me!

Here’s what’s happening now:

Tomorrow: Laundry has to be done in order for me to pack for Steve Hurst School of Music, Trip to the Post Office before they close at Noon, finish up Vocalive.com (this is going to be a great site when it’s done!), go over last minute changes to seminar notes for Steve’s School, sing in the evening, and then sometime after I get everything packed for the week, I’ll get to go to bed.

Sunday: Get up early to pack up the vehicles, go to church - only to leave early to come home and pick up Mom and Chris, leave for a Homecoming singing in Lebanon, leave Lebanon quickly to get to Steve’s School before 5:00 so that we can be settled in before the Staff meeting at 6:00 pm. Then, I can relax with a nice concert by the Talley’s.

Monday through Friday: Catch up on emails and updates, teach vocal classes, take pics, sing, hold seminar, hopefully encourage some singers, and pack up to come home again.

Then it’s off to do more work for the Gospel Music Fan Festival, coming up in about 2 and a half weeks.

Chris and I are nearing completion of our Southern Spin Artist Direction. This is going to be good I believe, and I want it to be perfect. I had to postpone the start date, due to other priorities, but I am praying that God will be in it and I trust that in His time, it will work out beautifully!!

Yesterday, I took mom to the eye doctor and she got some not so great news. I won’t go into details right now, but please remember her in your prayers. She wasn’t feeling so good before she went in and she is still feeling bad. The not so great news on top of not feeling good makes ya feel worse. She had to go to the ER tonight, only to be released with the diagnosis of slight Bronchitus. She could use a lot of prayers right now. She needs rest, and a peace that passes all understand!!

It’s late, I gotta get up early! I’ll try to update while at Steve’s School.

AM OUT!

The Early Bird Rises

2005-06-28T22:20:00.000-07:00

Sammy gave some good advice on how I can avoid losing information I write in my blog before publishing it. However, it just seems silly to me to type it all out in Word, then copy it here, and save it on my puter. Why do I need all those files on my puter? LOL

The next couple weeks are going to be CRAZY, even more so than normal. I'm revamping Southern Spin Entertainment's site, as well as getting things ready for Southern Spin Artist Direction (which btw, I believe some will find very interesting). My goal is to have those two done before the week of Steve Hurst School of music (that's in like 11 days). Not to mention, I HAVE to have vocalive.com done by the Friday before Steve's (9 days). Then I'm trying to finish up Sharron Kay King's site(she's currently at songsofsharron.com), as well as a media kit for The Glovers. I also should have SSE Design Group's site finished within the next coming weeks.

CRAZY! I met with Gary Ray today to talk about updating his site too. I need to balance my bank statements, finish up some stuff for the Gospel Music Fan Festival (including confirmation letters and building info for the Talent Contest), bill clients, PRACTICE with Sunday Edition, and start my new project (job) for Johnny Minick, and finishing up Daniel Ray's site. In between all that, I'll be able to sleep about 4 hours, and MAYBE write a bit in my blog. So if you don't hear from me in a few days...weeks...you'll know why!

Tomorrow morning, or in a few hours (which ever way you want to look at it), I must take Dad to the hospital. He's having eye surgery. They will be giving him some sorta amnesiac drug (I'm not a doctor or nurse), and will proceed to create an opening in his tear ducts so that they may drain properly. He's had a problem for the last 6 months or so with his eyes constantly watering. I will be getting up around 5:30 am and heading out to the hospital around 6:00 pm. Say a short prayer for my daddy!!

So, since I have to get up in about 5 hours, I am going to try to go to bed.

PS...Rev, just so you know, I LOVE real Mexican food! It just so happens that if I have to choose between a burger and Taco Bell, I'm going with Taco Bell. LOL

PPS...thanks for the comments guys! I think ya'll broke a record for the most comments on my blog! LOL

OUT!

Pet Peeves and Other Things

2005-06-25T15:01:00.000-07:00

I hate it when I do that!! I had a good blog written and then I hit a button and it takes me to another page. I totally lose what I've written, making me have to start all over.

Ok, so on to my pet peeve. I had to go to Sam's Club today, so I decided to stop by my favorite fast food restaurant (EVER), Taco Bell. While sitting in my car, waiting for my turn at the drive-thru speaker, I got to hear the order of a gentleman 4 cars ahead of me.

My dad does this. I guess they assume that the person taking your order is DEAF. My dad has to raise his voice up about 5 notches to place his order at the speaker. Drives me insane. Trust me, if they couldn't hear you, they would tell you. LOL

In spite of what some of my readership thinks, I do not hate the SG blogs. A couple of them just grate my nerves because they talk about junk they know nothing about (but think they do). My last post was in response to Gospel Commentary's post to me. I do want to say that I have to agree with his most recent post (no it's not about me). Regardless of whether or not he/she thinks I can get a date or not (I know I thought it was ridiculously funny too), I do agree with his statement: "Change is already under way in SG. Whether we like it or not it is getting more progressive. I think it is healthy and, to a point, will embrace it."

If you haven't already read Sammy's Blog, you need to. He has re-visited his post on the perfect wedding. I personally think it's great, though some think he's off his rocker. That very well may be, but it doesn't mean he can't come up with a great idea.

There's already another expansion pack coming out for Sims2. Nightlife. I haven't even gotten the first expansion pack. I'm upset that I don't have $30 bucks for University Expansion Pack. I thought I'd try something like Scoot did regarding Bass Boats. Tell me Scoot, did you get any good response from that??? LOL

Anyone want to make a donation to my Sims2 Expansion Pack fund, please email me! ;)

I gotta go work.

AM OUT!

All I'm gonna say...

2005-06-21T01:09:00.000-07:00

In regards to the TWO responses from SG bloggers, all I'm gonna say is:

"LOL! Think what you want!"

Weird! I never even mentioned names, but I guess if the shoe fits you might as well wear it. LOL

Who knew a "dear diary" blog would stir emotions. I guess I got a good talking/writing to.

I guess I need to just continue to stick with writing about my puppy, E-Harmony, what I had to eat tonight, or even how I can't get a date (Hey, I never said that, I'm just quoting the blogger.) I can't however write about coffee making me hallucinate because the only thing coffee really makes me do is suffer from indigestion.

Seriously, my stomach hurts!! LOLWTIME!!!

Whew!! AM OUT!! **giggle**

Check it out!!

2005-06-20T20:28:00.000-07:00

So I got an IM from Sammy today. He absolutely cracks me up! (You crack me up Sammy - I wanna be you when I grow up!) He updates his blog today (that makes twice in a week). He pinpoints my feelings on the whole "wedding" thing EXACTLY. You have to read it: SAMMY'S BLOG

Today we went out biking for the first time in a week. We haven't been able to go since Chris and Leah left for Camp. Apparently Camp was a blast for Chris. Next time you talk to him, ask him about hugs and lard. Interesting!! BTW..Leah, I missed ya'll. LOL

Congrats to Jess and Eddie! They won the war of bidding on a house. It's sounds absolutely lovely and I can't wait till they have us over for a party!

Kym and Chris (and Nita) have found a house out in Winchester. Not as close as they hoped, but apparently it's PERFECT. Two houses on one land (5 acres). It will still be an hour closer to me than they are now. I will feel better once they get off that mountain. If they houses and land are still available next monday when their banker gets back into town, they will be making a bid. PRAY!

I'm off to finish up a site. I've only got a few more pages left to get up and then I can show it to you!! It's really pretty and I believe it totally fits the artist!

Back to work! AM OUT!

PS...to anonymous commentor, don't let avery bother you. He just likes to try to get peeps all worked up. He doesn't bother me. Although, I will say, it's quite comical though to see him get into his name-calling act.

Sounds like a copycat

2005-06-19T19:54:00.000-07:00

Ok....not going to write much, but a couple things struck me funny tonight as I was reading up on all the SG blogs, message boards, websites, etc.

1. Can the other bloggers NOT find anything else to talk about except repeating each other?? UGH! I understand doing it occasionally, but this has been going on for quite a while. One blogger in particular has done nothing but repeat the same topic our favorite "anonymous" blogger has stated. It's getting old already! I smell copycat!

2. A couple (ok, 2) bloggers have mentioned this SGM Update site. True this is a good idea, but in reality it's already been done (or is being done, whatever). Someone has already thought of it, however they didn't go looking through the Singing News Magazine for appearances, or grab them off booking agents sites. They work with artists. The company's name is HEAVENSOUND. One main reason to check out heavensound.com is that they are MUCH more professional looking. Also, you don't have to "selecting artists" to see who's going to be in your area or state. The artists actually enter in their own schedule and it will update on the artists site, as well as heavensound's site. If you are an artist, I would recommend getting in contact with Gary Allen (gary@heavensound.com) for more information. More artists should take advantage of this.

Ok, I've said my peace. I've got a major headache and it's been a long weekend!!

AM OUT!

Withdrawals

2005-06-16T12:13:00.000-07:00

So, I'm having MAJOR Sims 2 withdrawals, since all this work has been piled on me. I played a little last night. I've recently found a few cheats for the game and it is amazing. My sim will have a baby and I can make the newborn grow up into an adult instantly. It totally rocks!! I can also make my sim be friends with anyone on their lot. I just wish I had more time to play it. I really want the University Expansion Pack, but it's like $30 and I am having enough trouble paying my bills. LOL Guess I'll have to wait until it goes down in price.

Chris is gone to camp. He is a Camp Counselor, which is quite suprising because he never liked Camp when he was younger. I think he only went once. He and Leah get to run the concession stand. He seems to have fun with it. I am anxious for them to get back so we can get back to our bike riding sessions. Plus, they always have fun stories about Leah taking naps and stuff.

The last weekend in August the TNT's (Twenties and Thirties) are going to Gatlinburg. It is going to be awesome! I cannot wait. It will be a much needed vacation. Plus, we all stay in a huge cabin. It has like 8 bedrooms, a HUGE kitchen and dining area, a living room with a BIG screen TV (the boys love this cause they play XBOX on it), and it also has a game room with a pool table, air hockey, and foosball. It's sorta in a wooded area, gets kinda scary outside the cabin at night. Chris thinks the whole scenario is perfect for a scary movie, so he comes up with one. It's quite comical!

Tomorrow I have a meeting with Steve Hurst. All the local teachers are meeting to go over some curriculum. This is an AMAZING school. If you have never attended, and are an aspiring artist, praise and worship leader, songwriter, piano player, I encourage you to go. I spent 3 awesome years there, after recommendation of my older brother (Aaron). It totally changed my life. The second year I was there I met my best friend in the whole world, Kym. She met her husband there. God works through Steve. It's awesome!

Ok, I gotta get back to work. Just two more things:

1. Scoot sunk a boat?? REALLY???
2. Sammy, update your blog!! We know you've graduated already!

OUT!

Work, work, work

2005-06-11T08:41:00.000-07:00

So, I might be even slower updating than usual. Things have been so busy here.

This month I must prepare for several things in July, while at the same time get about 4 sites up and running. Two of which must be designed still.

July is a big month. I have the launching of vocalive.com, the launching of Southern Spin Artist Direction, Steve Hurst School (I'm helping Steve out and Chris and I are doing a short seminar), and then there's the Gospel Music Fan Festival. Not to mention CrabbFest is somewhere during all that too.

After that, August is pretty full too. SGM Fan Fair is going on, and then the week after that, the Twenties and Thirties (better known as TNTs) are going on a fun trip to Gatlinburg for 3 days. Not to mention that Kym's new baby is due around that time.

Then, we get ready for NQC, which is a whole big deal in itself.

Today, I will spend some time with the Beauvais kiddos. Mostly Jenna, as Josh will most likely be at the skate park and Jason is taking some kind of SAT tests. We may go see a movie or something. I just dunno yet. I can't ever plan ahead, it's just not like me! ;)

Currently, I'm ending my blog to go get a little bit of work done. Maybe I can get a design done in the next hour before I have to head over to the "other house" (also known as "the Beauvais" - LOL).

AM Out!!

Catch up

2005-06-02T22:57:00.000-07:00

So it's been a few days and since I had been really good last week about posting, I figured I should come post now.

Since my last post, I've done a couple things.

I went to the Kirk Talley Video taping. In my opinion, it went wonderfully! Was even better Sunday morning. I did miss having Kym at church Sunday, but she was on her way home from Oklahoma. When the videos come back I'm definitely getting one to see if my big mug got caught on tape. Lord knows I don't wanna ruin Kirk's video! ;)

Sunday night we had no church service, due to the Memorial Day holiday. So, Leah, Chris, and I went to the movies. We were going to see "Kicking and Screaming". It stars Will Ferrell and Robert Duvall. It was good except for the fact that we were put in a TINY theatre; I can usually deal with that. My problem was that there was NO surround sound. NONE, zilch, nadda!! All the sound was coming from the front (you know like it used to be before there was surround sound). The only problem was that it wasn't very loud. You couldn't hear the dialogue of the movie over laughter. It was HORRIBLE. I went and told an employee of the theatre before the movie started, just in case they didn't know that there was something wrong with the theatre. I went out again during the movie, to see if anyone had checked on it. I was told that there was something wrong with that theatre. My question to the girl was, "WHY did you put us in a theatre that doesn't work??" Poor girl, it was her 2nd day on the job. It was obvious she didn't know what to tell me. We suffered through the movie, though we are going to have to go see it again or wait for it to come out on video, cause we couldn't hear it. On top of all that, there were these TEENY BOPPERS behind us that thought they should talk on the phone during the movie. They were QUITE rude and I told them so. (Chris and Leah think it's funny that I use the word QUITE) Afterwards, I was so worked up, I went and got a manager. Anyone who knows me, knows I don't do that sorta thing. I politely told her that the "service" was horrible and then I asked her why we were put in a BAD theatre. She said there was nothing wrong with the theatre, and apologized. She ended up giving us all refund tickets. (Go me!)

Monday night, we went to a BBQ at some friends, and had a blast!! If you've never played the game "Mafia" you must try it once. It was quite fun! (Guys, I can't help it, I use the word QUITE, so shush it)

I don't think much happened Tuesday and Wednesday. We did have bible study and it was good! Tonight we used our refund tickets and went to see the "Longest Yard", starring Chris Rock, Burt Reynolds, Nelly, and Adam Sandler. It was comical! If you are football fan you will love this movie. If you are a wrestling fan, you will love this movie (the movie features Kevin Nash, Steve Austin, and Bill Goldberg). It was comical!

Tomorrow is one more day of bike riding and them I'm off for two days! Hurray! Saturday we sing in Murfreesboro. Sunday it starts all over again! ;)

I'm off to work! Ya'll be good!

AM OUT!

Never Ending Battle

2005-05-27T22:46:00.000-07:00

I've been in contact with a few people since my post "Promotion - Get Over It!" Seems I've slightly offended some peeps when I stated that I believe everyone's main goal is to make money. I won't bother rehashing my thoughts on that, as they have been explained in both my "Clarification" post and the "Walkin in the water" post.

Let me say this though: I LOVE SG MUSIC! I have been a fan since I can remember. I work in the genre, with a lot of "regional" groups. My post wasn't about MONEY! Seems when you mention MONEY and MINISTRY in the same sentence, people get all antsy. Fortunately, the peeps that have contacted me have been very christian! I've had some nice talks! But I've seen this way too many times. We are afraid to mix anything with ministry (be it entertainment, business, etc.). Why?

I believe it's because we are afraid of what others will say. If you think about it, it's not just singers who have a ministry. It's not just Preachers, Sunday School Teachers, Big Evangelists, and any other person who holds a specific title.

A ministry is not a TITLE. We are ALL ministers. EVERY day we go out into a lost and dying world. We drive to work. We go to the grocery store. We go the park to bike ride. We get online and chat on message boards and in chat rooms. We visit friends in the hospital. We go rent movies or we go to the theatre. We invite friends over. Are you getting my point? Every single Christian has a ministry. We are all called to preach the gospel. We are all called to show love, grace, and mercy. We are called to be LIKE Christ. In that aspect, whatever you do beyond that in this life is just extra. (It's the icing on the cake.)

So, setting that aside, however we work (not minister), we better work it to the best of our ability. All work will in some way or another allow you to "minister". When I worked at Goody's there were many times I was able to say "Have a GREAT day" to a customer and you could see their whole countenance change. THAT is ministry. Just picking up the phone and allowing that "friend" to talk your ear off is MINISTRY. Ministry is all around you. Ministry doesn't appear when you pick up a microphone to sing or preach.

I've seen many artists (regional and professional) use this term "minister" as a scape goat. They use it so that they don't have to take responsibility for their "business". Not all do, but many do. That to me is sad. Business is business. Work it as such. Sometimes, ministry is business. Sometimes, business is ministry. If you owned an ice cream shop, you wouldn't just sit there and "hope" that the customers come to you, would you? So, why do we do it with our "ministries"?

I know, another posting that will probably get me into trouble by those "ministers" out there! LOL Oh, well, I'm a big girl. I can take it. Let me say that I speak AT myself as much as I speak to others. A lot of times God teaches me things as I write it down. I think "Wow...ok God, I get it now". He's funny that way!

As for my health, I'm feeling much better. Lauren, you were right. 24 hours later, I'm feeling close to my old self again. Fortunately, the doc I saw gave me all samples, so I didn't have to pay for any prescriptions. The Lord knows money is tight right now and I wasn't expecting this doc bill. But, He supplies my every need!! No doubt!

Tomorrow night is Kirk Talley's LIVE video. I'm pumped. We'll have a 2 hour practice tomorrow afternoon. I'll have to finish learning all the songs by then. I missed last night's practice due to my strep throat. Pray for me! LOL

Oh, Kym's having a hard time right now. She's in Oklahoma with her momma, trying to sell the house. Please say a short prayer for them. I know they are wanting to just "get it over with". So many things to remind them of Butch.

I'm off to update a few things and then head for bed. Hopefully I'll get a little work done before I have to leave tomorrow.

I'm OUT!

Confined!!

2005-05-26T18:35:00.000-07:00

Yep. I am not allowed into the kitchen for the next couple days. According to my mother, I'm not allowed to go anywhere but in my room and "maybe" the couch!

Well, I've been fighting this head cold/allergy thing, right? Turns out, my tonsils became extremely swollen, enough I could feel them touching (gross, I know). Mom demanded I go to the doc. I was going to go on the bike trail with Chris (and now my friend Leah is joining us). I didn't want to leave them, especially Leah, all alone on the trail. Mom wouldn't have it. She said, "GO now, you could have Strep Throat and we don't need to catch it". UGH! Anyone who has a momma knows that you don't argue with momma!!

On I went to the doc, missing my daily excercise routine of biking around the city of Murfreesboro. So, guess what I have? STREP THROAT! Yep, as much as I hate to admit it, momma was right! I've never had it before, but apparently it was LOW on the scale. The doc thought I caught it just in time. He doesn't believe I'm at too much of a risk to spread it unless someone eats or drinks after me. So I'm on some antibiotics and some antihistamine/decongestant that is supposed to make me loopy! (his words not mine - shush it SS and TC!!) So far, though, so good! NO loopiness - well, no abnormal loopiness!!

So, I'm working...until I feel like sleeping, since I'm confined to my room! LOL

I just wanted to update you all, since some folk say I don't update enough!

BTW, meeting went well today. Hope nobody else gets Strep Throat! Pray for me! ;)

AM OUT!

Copy Cats

2005-05-24T17:01:00.000-07:00

Ok, so Chris apparently copied this from his friend Caleb, and Lauren copied it from Chris, so now, I'm copying it from Lauren! Thought it was fun, and since I have peeps who read this to find out more about me, I thought it'd be cool! WARNING: It's a bit long!!

CURRENT
- Current Clothes: Nike Shorts, Hanes shirt (just got done bike riding)
- Current Music: American Idol
- Current Hair: wrapped in a bandana
- Current Smell: some kind of Tuna Helper stuff
- Current thing I ought to be doing: designing a couple sites
- Current Desktop Picture: SIMS 2
- Current Favorite Artist: can't say I have one really...sad huh!
- Current Favorite Group: same as above.
- Current Book: The Magician's Nephew (the first of the Chronicles of Narnia, thanks to Ruth and Chris)
- Current CD in CD Player: Chris hogs the CD player, but if it were my music, it'd probably be Faith Hill's "CRY" or "Breathe"
- Current tape in VCR: Do they even make these anymore? I think my parents have one still.
- Current Worry: Finances and getting my work done in the time frame I have.

LAST PERSON
- You Touched: probably my brother, smackin him for something I'm sure.
- You Talked to: Chris and Mom
- You Hugged: Liberty Grace
- You Instant messaged: I think it was Leah, but it could've been John (Inq)
- You Yelled At: my brother
- You Kissed: Liberty Grace (unless you consider my puppies persons)

FAVOURITE
- Foods: definitely mexican (Cozumel's...yummm)
- Drink: sweet tea (lots of ice please)
- Color: blue (but I'm kinda leaning towards pink lately)
- Album: Faith Hill's "Breathe"
- Shoes: silver toe-less heals, but I hardly wear them cause I ain't got nothin to wear them with. Can't wear silver with just ANYTHING.
- Candy: Almond Joy
- Animal: dog and cat
- TV Show: House MD
- Song: He Looked Beyond My Faults (I love to hear Bro Primm sing this, wow!)
- Vegetable: broccoli (only if it's drowned in butter and mushy!)
- Fruit: watermelon
- Shampoo: Bed Head (I'm loving this stuff)
- Toothpaste: Colgate or Crest
- Soap: Arbonne Cleaning Gel
- Room in your house: my room (it's semi-quiet)

ARE YOU
- Understanding: I hope so
- Open-minded: I try to be
- Arrogant: never
- Insecure: probably more often than not
- Interesting: NO
- Easily Amused: usually
- Random: hardly
- Hungry: no
- Friendly: yes
- Smart: I'm finding that just because my mom says I am doesn't mean I really am. LOL
- Moody: definitely - ask my family
- Childish: hardly
- Independent: yes (except for my living situation, but why leave home if you don't have to?)
- Healthy: does chunky qualify?
- Emotionally Stable: I hope so.
- Shy: sometimes, at first meet or in large crowds
- Difficult: not usually
- Bored Easily: not really
- Messy: can be, but try not to be
- Thirsty: a lot - I feel a little dehydrated.
- Responsible: definitely
- Obsessed: only with my Sims 2 game
- Angry: only with people who mess with my family and friends. But typically, no.
- Sad: sometimes
- Happy: sometimes
- Hyper: only when I take Pro-Image.
- Trusting: only my friends can answer that...I hope yes
- Talkative: only when I take Pro-Image.

WHO DO YOU WANT TO
- Kill: why would I want to incriminate myself?
- Slap: the list is too long
- Get High With: again...inciminate myself why?
- Tickle: Liberty Grace
- Look Like: myself just skinnier!
- Talk To Offline: prolly TC...just cause I haven't ever met him in person and he's a funny guy online!

HAVE YOU EVER
- Done Drugs? uh negative
- Eaten an entire package of Oreos? no
- Been on stage? yes
- Dumped Someone? yes
- Gotten in a car accident? two small ones. no injuries.
- Been in love? yes. love hurts.

EITHER/OR
-Coffee or hot chocolate? coffee
-Big or little? big
-New or old? new
-Jeans or cords? jeans (and so chris knows, cords are most likely corduroys)
-Sweater or sweatshirt? sweater
-T-shirt or tank top? tank top if I didn't have chunky arms, so we'll go with t-shirt
-Skirt or dress? skirt
-Wool or cotton? cotton
-Rose or Lily? lily
-Oldies or pop? oldies
-Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend? nope
-Do you have a best friend? yes

IN THE LAST 24 HOURS, HAVE YOU
- Cried? no, surprisingly
- Helped Someone? i hope so
- Bought something? no
- Gotten sick? yes...stupid allergies
- Gone to the movies? nope
- Gone out for dinner? nope
- Said "I love you"? nope
- Written a real letter? I used to do that...but nope
- Moved on? for the moment
- Talked to an ex? nope
- Missed an ex? nope
- Talked to someone you have a crush on? nope, I don't have any crushes yet.
- Had a serious talk? yes
- Missed someone? can you miss someone you've never met?
- Hugged someone? nope
- Fought with your parents? I don't think so
- Fought with a friend? nope

DO YOU
- Wear eye shadow? yes, I love eye shadow!
- Put on a "front"? sometimes
- Have a crush on someone? nope
- Eat with your mouth open? I hope not
- If you got a tattoo, where would you get it? somewhere that would not be seen by anyone except me or a doctor!
- What color is your floor/carpet in your room? beige
- When's the last time you showered? yesterday (it's bout time for another)
- Are you lonely? more often than not
- Are you happy? sometimes
- Are you talking to someone online? nope
- What is your astrological sign? Libra

That's me! AM out!!

Chuck E Cheese - The kid in us

2005-05-24T13:07:00.000-07:00

So, my last post told you that it was possible that Liberty Grace was going to spend the night with me. She did. We had a blast. Chris and I wanted to take her to Chuck E Cheese. There have been discussions to have her birthday party there, but she had never been, so we wanted to see if she would like it there. Well, Liberty's parents were sort of planning on going to a concert, but when word got out that we were going to Chuck E Cheese, they changed their plans, quickly! LOL My suspicions were correct in that it was the PARENTS who really wanted to go to CEC!

We had a blast! Yes, all of us kids. Kym's mom (Nita) went with us, but she didn't do much. She was a Mom and sat watching all our food and purses at the table. The "kids" played all the games. It was a blast! It's now official that Liberty Grace's birthday party will be at CEC.

Here are a few pics:

So after CEC, Jess and Eddie called us and invited us over for Chocolate Creme Pie. Anyone who knows Jess and Eddie, knows that Jess is the PERFECT hostess. We love going over to her their house because Jess always has good food and/or desserts, as well as the perfect coffee (and Chai for Chris).

Kym, her husband, and her mom decided not to go, as Chris got word that his daddy had been flown to the naval hospital with chest pains. He wanted to stay close to the phone. So, Chris, Liberty, and I went to have dessert. Liberty LOVES Jess and Eddie. We watched National Treasure (awesome movie). Jess served us some AWESOME chocolate creme pie. She also was very kind to Liberty, even when Liberty accidentally wrote on her pants. She searched all over the house for fun stuff for Liberty to do. If you ask Liberty, she'll tell you all about it!!

Here are a few pics (pie pic courtesy of Jess):

All in all it was a wonderful evening. Liberty went to bed shortly after we got home from Jess and Eddie's. She had to play with Maggie first. (Speaking of, I'm going to need to get some more pics of Maggie. He's growing so much!!)

The weekend was good. A great day in the Lord, Sunday!! Pastor Johnny down right preached Sunday AM. Come to find out, Steve Hurst joined the church. I told Dad, "Steve beat us to it, now we HAVE to become a member". We will be turning in our membership forms this week. Sunday evening I got to hear Hovie Walker preach. I absolutely love him. He has the sweetest heart! I'm a fan forever!! Some of you may know Hovie...he's an AMAZING bass singer!!

Well, yesterday I woke up sick with another head cold. I think it's allergies...they kill me this time of year. Not good, considering I must be in good full voice this weekend for Kirk Talley's LIVE video. It's going to be a blast, so pray for me!

OUT!

9 miles and counting

2005-05-20T14:04:00.000-07:00

So, I told you Chris is killing me with this biking thing. Today, I went 9 miles and NO strange men approaching me. Hooray! I did get a little wet as it started to rain halfway through my trail.

Anyway, I thought I since I haven't been updating my blog properly, I should come in and say something before I go to work.

I got the Muppet Night tonight at Leah's. Can't wait. I'm just excited to get out of the house and have a little fellowship with all the peeps I haven't seen in awhile.

It's possible that Liberty Grace will be spending the night with me tomorrow night. Since I know I'm always talking about her and her momma (Kym - my bestest friend in the whole world), I thought I'd give you a treat and post a pic of her and her momma!

Her momma is just as beautiful as she is:

Liberty is an absolute doll! Only 2 (will be 3 in July) and is soooo smart. I want her to grow up and marry my nephew Eli, because he's so smart and handsome! He is pictured below with his sister, Anna Cate.

I would post pics of my other niece and nephew, Ashlee and Donavon, but I only have pics from 2003.

Ok, I'm done match making...I've got to go work a little before I have to leave for the Muppet Night!! ;-)

Out!!

Walkin in the water

2005-05-19T13:49:00.000-07:00

So I've been told by several people that I need to update. Yes, I know it's crazy. Now, rather than TWO people reading my blog, there are apparently, SEVERAL. I'm a bit astounded myself.

Let me think, an update...Well, Chris is about to kill me. He has me biking (or cycling as he wants to call it) 5 times a day. He is now riding 12 miles a day. I'm only up to 8, but in all fairness, I didn't go two days this week because I had a head cold due to allergies. Since our bike trail is in the woods, I'm thinking it wouldn't be smart to go out there while I am sick. So, he's slightly ahead of me, but I have a feeling I will catch up.

Today, I didn't bike, I walked. I took my puppies. The Stone's River runs all along the trail that we walk/bike. The pups like to go hop into the River and drink of it's cool and refreshing water. I longed to be able to take my tennis shoes off and dip my feet in the water. Just standing there you could tell how cool it was. It flowed against the rocks in the middle, making for a nice stream. Magnum wanted to go one way. In fact, he wanted to go ALL the way in the middle. He would follow the flow of the water, as he drank it. Higgins was a little more stand-offish and tried to go back to land. He didn't go into the water till I pushed him, not realizing that once he got in he'd find that the water was cool and clean on this HOT day.

Now that I sit here and tell you about it, it sorta reminds me of God. How cool and refreshing His water is. Sometimes, just standing there you can tell how cool it is and you long to be able to take your worries and burdens off and just dip your feet in the water. It's hard sometimes to get your feet in the water when you have adversaries pulling you different directions. Some have no problem, diving head first into the middle of the water. While others, are a bit timid to get in and wet their feet. I've found myself to be both people at different times. But the more I walk with God, the more I understand that it's safer for me to go ahead and jump right in the middle, than to stand and think about it first.

Being a person who is deathly afraid of water, I do know that it's safer for me to jump in the middle of God's water than to sit at the side wishin I could. Now, I wouldn't try that in real life, but metaphorically speaking...you get my drift. PLUS, it's definitely much easier to dip my feet in the water of God, than to dip my feet in the Stone's River with two anxious puppies pulling me in different directions.

The trail is approximately 4.5 miles long, but I only walked 2. Higgins (the older puppy) got tired shortly into the trail, so we headed back. While we were sitting in the grass waiting on Chris to finish his 12 miles, I noticed two strange men near their cars in the back of a parking lot just off the trail. One kept looking at me oddly, and I tried to look in other directions. Then I noticed he started to walk towards me. Knowing Higgins is rather protective of people just "coming at" us, I got up so I could have a better hold on him. Sure enough, the guy started to walk up towards me, and Higgins went crazy. I knew then that something wasn't right, because Higgins doesn't growl at people unless something is wrong. Higgins wouldn't stop, but the guy kept trying to come closer. Magnum, being the puppy, decided that since Higgins was angry, he should be too! So, now I've got TWO dogs (though they are small they are quite strong) barking and growling at this man. I don't think he could speak english very well. As he started to come closer, I said, "you might want to get back, as I'm not sure what they will do". The man made one more step closer, and asked what his name was (I assume he was referring to Magnum since he pointed at him) . I told him, and then Higgins started getting more fierce with his bark and growl. The man looked a little scared and started to back up a little. Then I guess he didn't want to mess with me because the dogs, to him, didn't look to safe. The guy walked back to his friend and they both got in their cars and drove away immediately.

I told Chris later that I kept telling Higgins to stop, but he wouldn't. After the guy left, I told Higgins how good he was. LOL The totally scared me, and I think Higgins knew that.

How good to know that God is watching out for you. What would I have done if the guy came up to me and I didn't have the dogs. I was by myself, practically out in the woods. With all the abductions and murders you read about, you just never know. I'm so thankful that God looks after us.

I see Leah has posted a comment on my blog regarding promotion. I see her point, and I think we are thinking sorta the same thing, but saying it differently. Here's what she said:

Okay...I understand what your saying, but I do have a comment. I think the thing that MAY be offensive in your opinion is that you said that money is the MAIN goal. I totally understand that business and ministry go hand in hand. One can not exist without the other. I however believe that making money should be a bi-product of ministry. The word of God says that whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might. I belive that if you are doing that, it will obviously include those buisness things that you were talking about, thus resulting in income to sustain your ministry. Does that make sense? LOL It does in my head. LOL Making money is neccesary to ministry just as eating is to living. However...I do not live to eat. That is not my life's goal. Although some of my friends would argue that point. LOL So therefore...ministry is the MAIN goal, and money is what I need to survive long enough to accomplish it.

Ok, Before I rip into this (LOL) let me first tell you that Leah and my family have disagreed on several things and she knows that we are a family of debate. So I know she will not take any of my statements in offense, and she knows my focus and life!

I still believe money is the MAIN goal. I agree with her statement that making money should be a bi-product of ministry. I also agree with the scripture she used. We should do all things that we do with all our might. TRUE, making money is neccesary to ministry just as eating is to living. She stated, "I do not live to eat. That is not my life's goal." TRUE, you live because you are breathing. BUT, if you do not eat, you do not live for long before your entire body shuts down and you DIE. A perfect example of this is Terry Shiavo. Leah ends her comment with "ministry is the MAIN goal, and money is what I need to survive long enough to accomplish it." So, in reality, you need money to obtain your ministry. Hmm...I think I said that. LOL If you do not have money, you do not have a ministry (unless of course your ministry is to the homeless - not at all downing that ministry, just making a point). Maybe I shouldn't have said your main GOAL. Other than God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, etc., the MAIN element needed to "accomplish" your ministry is MONEY.

Does that sound better? LOL

Ok, I'm going to get cleaned up for choir practice tonight. Our choir is singing in Kirk Talley's LIVE video. Kirk's supposed to be there tonight. If you don't know who he is, or haven't heard his testimony, you need to do so immediately. Talk about Grace and Mercy being prevalant in someone's entire demeanor.

Just a note...Tomorrow night is MUPPET night at Leah's. MOST of us (those that are into the whole muppet thing) are going to watch the new Muppet movie - The Muppet's Wizard of Oz. This is exciting news for Muppet fans.

Ok...AM Out!!!

Clarification...

2005-05-10T13:49:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I must clarify one paragraph I wrote yesterday. I've had it brought to my attention that I may have been a little harsh. Let it be known that I didn't intend to be harsh, but this is a topic that really gets my goat. Ministry vs. Business.

Here's what I said:
"Let's face it. I don't care who you are, or what your ministry is about, your main goal is to get money. You can stand here and tell me (till you're blue in the face) that your goal is to see people saved. That's great! But I don't buy it. The reason anyone works (be it a sales clerk, waiter, singer, songwriter, actor/actress, etc) is to make money to pay your bills. It costs to live."

Ok...yes EVERY CHRISTIAN's goal should be to see lives changed by the Grace of our Lord. No question. That's standard. From a business standpoint though, I don't believe God wants us to be LAZY. I don't believe God wants us to work in a ministry that cannot provide for itself. So, yes, your goal may be to see lives changed, souls saved, hearts mended, bodies healed, BUT, if you do not make money, your "ministry" will not survive.

I look at it this way. You would not be singing Gospel music unless you were somewhat interested in seeing God move through you. Granted, there are a few that couldn't make it anywhere else so they come to the Gospel Music genre. For the most part, you started your ministry to do a work for God. GREAT! Now let's, for one moment, PRETEND, that your ministry is a business. How do you get to the churches and/or concerts? You cannot walk there. You must have a vehicle. How do you buy a vehicle? How do you put gas in your vehicle. MONEY!

See where I'm going? In order to have a ministry that is going to reach lives ALL over the world, your main goal is going to be MAKING MONEY! You have to treat your ministry as a business of it will never succeed in changing lives, seeing souls saved, seeing hearts mended, etc.
Unless of course you just want to minister to your neighbors (nothing wrong with that, either).

Please know I am not downing anyone who is all about ministry. That's not my intention. My intention is to make a "ministry" the best it can. I want to see those lives changed, souls saved, hearts mended, just as much as the next guy. When I was saved, God gave me that desire. My goal, obviously make money so that I can help other groups do exactly what they want to do with their ministries.

Bottom line, whether you agree or not, ministry is a business. There are times and places for a ministry to act as a ministry and there are times and places for a ministry to act as a business. We'll never see our goals as a ministry if we don't make money. Yes, God supplies all our riches according to his glory. I firmly believe that. But I also believe he gives us common sense and expects us to use all avenues we possibly can to reach the lost. God doesn't always drop manna from the sky to feed us. Most of the time, we have to fish.

AM OUT!

Promotion - Get over it!

2005-05-09T13:51:00.000-07:00

Ok, my topic today is about Promotion/Marketing. To the SG artists I want to say, DO IT! To the SG Fans, I want to say, GET OVER IT!

Here's why! I believe SG today has some of the greatest talent ever seen. I believe that there's so much talent and diversity, that we're not even beginning to reach the fans we need to reach to expand the genre. (Yes, I know many people hate the word "genre" but get over it)

I believe SG is sitting on the line right now. On one side of the line is failure and extinction and on the other side is success and growth. I'm afraid that unless we get up off our behinds and and do a little bit of promotion/marketing we are going to be sitting on the side of failure and extinction.

Promotion, publicity, etc are all really part of marketing. Dictionary.com shows the following as the definition of marketing:

"the commercial processes involved in promoting and selling and distributing a product or service;"

Let's face it. I don't care who you are, or what your ministry is about, your main goal is to get money. You can stand here and tell me (till you're blue in the face) that your goal is to see people saved. That's great! But I don't buy it. The reason anyone works (be it a sales clerk, waiter, singer, songwriter, actor/actress, etc) is to make money to pay your bills. It costs to live.

What I don't understand about SG, is that there are so many opportunities for us to "market" our music, yet we fail to do so. We have this mentality that everything will come to us. I'm sure you've heard someone say one or more of these:

"the record labels are going to sign us, once they hear us"
"once (name your favorite record label) hears us, they are going to provide everything for us"
"once (name your favorite group) hears us, they'll want us to tour with them"
"once we make a project, our bookings are going to start coming in"

Meanwhile, we sit and WAIT for pastors/promoters/radio to call us. We sit and wait for the publications to call us and interview us. We sit and wait for the record labels to sign us and pay for everything we need to get our name out. We sit and wait for the fans to come to us. True, word of mouth is one of the best forms of marketing one can have, but it isn't going to make you famous much less get you on the cover of any publication.

When artists hear the term "marketing" they think about how much it's going to cost. Our mentality is that we are such a small genre, we don't need or can't afford marketing. This is nonsense. Marketing doesn't require money. It' requires creativity as well as time and effort. Granted, some money is required, but you'd be suprised at how much you can do with NO money.

For instance, did you know that one of the biggest promotions you can do for your group is get involved in online forums suited to your personal interests. Add your website link to your signature and post as often as you can. Interact with websites that are of your own (or your group's) interest. A PRIME example of this: Young Harmony and Shane Jordan of Rick Hendrix.

Jonathan Bond of Young Harmony simply posted a topin on SGN Message Boards regarding: Just curious, What has God done for you?
Note that he has a link to his website in his signature. He even talks about his current single that's out to radio.

Shane Jordan of Rick Hendrix posted a topic on the SGN Message Boards regarding a recent concert by Hoskins family.

SMART! Little to no effort and it got their name out. So much so, that certain annonymous bloggers were posting about the topics. Of course, they were complaining that it was hype. Seriously, what do you think PROMOTION is? You want people to be excited about YOU and YOUR music.

Send out a press release about new things happening with you. There are TONS of reasons why you could send out a press release. Just make sure that you can WRITE. I've seen so many bad press releases, with incomplete sentences, incorrect spelling, all lower case or all CAPS, and more. If you don't know how to write a press release, there are companies, like Southern Spin, that will write them for you a low cost. Some even send them out for you if they write it. (note the plug I just gave my own company)

Create and USE an Email Newsletter. Even if you just send out devotionals...people forward mail like it's going out of style. Think about it, how many forwarded emails do you get in your inbox in one day?

These are only a FEW of the many things you can do to help promote/market yourself.

Build relationships with publications, artists, record labels, etc. Work what skills you do have. Don't just sit on your behind and WAIT for success to come to you.

To the fans, I say, GET OVER IT. The artists/promoters/record labels are doing what they are SUPPOSED to be doing, promoting themselves. I have found that those that are complaining are usually the ones that are wanting to be something bigger than they are and are just sitting there waiting for it to happen (sometimes they are people who wanted to be and are no longer involved in the industry).

Artists, stop worrying about what everybody is saying and do what works!! Besides, for every complainer, you have hundreds more who just don't care what you do to promote yourself. You never know when the "hype" you present is going to bring you a new fan. For the most part, ALL publicity is good publicity.

As for my personal life, nothing much going on. We had to take mom to the hospital Sunday morning for chest pains but it turns out she had a bad case of acid reflux. Thank God it was nothing more serious.

Chris is killing me. He's got me working out 5 days a week. He is into this whole bike riding thing. Who knows, maybe his inspiration to get up and keep moving will help me lose weight. Lord knows I need some kind of inspiration.

SSE Group has some exciting news within the near future. I hope to release it within the next month, maybe month in a half. We're still going through some finalizations. I'll keep you posted.

I guess I've written enough for now. Didn't realize I was going to write a novel. Sorry...I'm sure you'll get over it really quick.

What's been going on...

2005-04-28T21:01:00.000-07:00

Yeah, yeah. I know, it's been awhile. Let me tell you all about it. The weekend after GMA week, we left for Memphis. We had the privilege of singing at our old church and see many faces we haven't seen in a few years. One of which was my old pal from High School, Jennifer. It was so good to see her and her mom in attendance.

Next was a week of preperation and catching up. There was the SGN Music Awards Celebration Tuesday night. It was absolutely AWESOME. It seemed nothing was going to flow well at all, but then about 30 minutes before it started, things started to run a little more smoothly. We had a time trying to get the Multimedia Presentation working. Chris and I had worked HOURS on it, and I was literally going to cry if it didn't work. We did have some sound clips to go along with it, but it just didn't work out that we could use them. I have heard so many compliments on this Celebration. It really did turn out well, and the crowd was SO much more than we had anticipated. There are TWO complaints that I have seen/heard. One was the apparel of Dad and Chris. Apparently the one complaining didn't know that it was a DRESSY CASUAL event - NO BLACK TIES. The other complaint was that Chris wasn't a funny Emcee. This one is just personal I think. You either love Chris or you hate him. He has a very sarcastic humor, and some peeps just can't handle that. We can't get too upset over these two complaints (if there are more we haven't heard them) because the peeps I've seen/heard them from DIDN'T even attend. Crazy...I know. Some peeps aren't happy unless they are complaining. If you attended and you didn't enjoy the Celebration, it's your own fault. There was plenty to be entertained by.

A little about me...I've been busy. That's all I can say. I tend to use that phrase a lot lately, but that's the only word I can use to describe my life right now. I've got tons of stuff lined up right now. We sing in May. June I think is free for me to work on SS, but knowing my schedule, it will be booked up with more appointments. July is Steve Hurst School and the Gospel Music Fan Festival. August will be preparation for NQC. SS will be holding TWO Showcases, one on Wednesday and the other on Thursday. October will be the SGN Reunion Concert and go ahead and count November and December as HOLIDAY months. In the middle of all of these big events, I have to find time to update all my sites as well as finish the new ones. I've got some pretty cool one's coming soon, I can't wait for you to see them.

Anyway, I am updating because I just got back from a Nacho Dinner at Eddie and Jessica Harrison's, and I was reprimanded by Eddie. He said I don't update my blog enough. Apparently I have TWO readers now. Yeah for me. Before I forget, I want to say that Jess is an AMAZING hostess. I also got to meet her Cousin, Heather. (I hope I got her name right).

Kym (my best friend) found out she's expecting a BOY! I can't remember if I've told this or not. They are naming him Crosslin Chase. I have no clue if I spelled it right, but it was a good try. They are going to call him Beau for short. I'm so excited. So is Liberty Grace. She and her Momma (Kym) spent the last week with us while Chris (her husband) was away on work. I LOVE having her here so close.

Ok, it's time for me to get back to work. I must say that it was awesome to talk to Sam earlier. He's still as sarcastic as ever. I also MUST mention TC. I forgot him in my "hey's" last time and I got in BIG trouble. It's possible I'll get to finally meet TC in person, as well as see Scoot sing next weekend. Depends....I've missed a lot of choir practices already.

HEY to all my friends...even TC! ;)

AM Out!

Too much to title

2005-04-09T14:04:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, it's been awhile. Things have been extraordinarly busy here. Between Southern Spin, SGN Music Awards Celebration, GMA Week, meetings with future and current clients, and singing, I'm about to pull my hair out! LOL

I love it, and wouldn't have it any other way. Just one night of sleep without wondering what I have to do the next day would be wonderful! I'm currently working on getting myself organized, and finding a way to keep track of EVERYTHING I need to do, today, tomorrow, and yesterday! Soon, I'll find a system that will work. Until then, I'm just going to have to put up with what I'm doing now.

A couple of things that I've been thinking about lately, or has come up in something I read, that I wanted to write about here. First off, GRAMMAR. Don't worry, I'm not one of those that cares if you have every punctuation mark in the right place, nor do I care if you use complete sentences. Well, wait...I do care to an extent. If I can understand your sentences, easily, as if you spoke them, then I'm fine with it. I can interpret to an extent.

About the only thing that I hate regarding grammar on the net is LONG drawn out sentences that have absolutely NO point to them. (This would include LONG drawn out paragraphs also). We live in a fast world. The Internet keeps things rolling even faster. We don't have time to sit and read through 12 LONG paragraphs of ONE subject. Keep it short and simple. Granted, there are times when long paragraphs are needed, but make sense with it.

A pet peeve of mine: Peeps who think they are grammatical gods and go about EVERY website they know to check for correct spelling. Come on people, we are ALL human and we ALL make spelling and grammatical errors. Get over it!

Another thing I've seen lately is the ignorance of good help. In the last couple months, we've (Southern Spin) been asked by several groups (some clients, some not) what their next step should be. When we give our answers, for the most part the group will listen. But lately, there have been a few that have refused to listen to what we advise. It makes me wonder why they even asked (or hired us) in the first place. Granted we don't have all the answers, but we know how to find them. Not to mention we ten to watch others actions and decisions, and we learn from THEIR experience. At times I want to say, "you'll see you made the wrong decision and I'll be there to say I told you so". But I know that's not right so I pray that God will bless them anyway. It just saddens me. It's kind of like your mother telling you not to touch the stove cause it's hot, yet you do it anyway. OUCH!

This week, starting today actually, we have GMA Week. This is an exciting week for us this year. We've been able to get some interviews for several of our clients. The sad thing is that SG other than (Daywind Artists and some Springhill) doesn't work this venue. WHY? I wish I knew. Maybe they are afraid thier artists might become CCM. Sad, but true. I must say though, that the interviews we've gotten for our clients could open MANY doors for them. You'd be surprised how many media and radio peeps are southern gospel fans and attend GMA Week. Tomorrow night is the Songwriter's Showcase. This is AN AWESOME event, where songwriters of the Dove Nominated Songs of the Year perform their own songs. Gerald Crabb will be there. These songwriters tell the story behind their songs and then THEY perform the song with either piano or guitar only. It's such a moving event. There is much more than that...but that's our highlight of the week. I'll give a small review when I return.

We are singing in Memphis (Southaven, MS really) this coming weekend (April 16 and17). So, all my old peeps need to come out and see us. Email me and I'll get you more information on When and Where. I just don't have it all in front of me.

Right now, I am going to get ready for a sing we have out in Gladesville. Thanks to the few peeps who read this and comment! I would like to give a shout out to my fav chatters whom I have not been able to chat with in FOREVER!!!! I'm sorry...I'm gonna work on getting back in there! So..."HEY" to RevTobasco, SamalamDingDong, ZehDuck, CajunGirl81, ScootShelnut, and I know I'm missing a few more. Anyway...hey!

AM OUT!

Easter - Happy Resurrection Day

2005-03-27T21:16:00.000-08:00

I realize it's been awhile since I've written. I must say that when I started this blog, I didn't realize that I would be so busy that I would have to squeeze time in to write in it. Things are crazy here. I'm not complaining, it's all good crazy! New clients popping up everywhere. I'm just ecstatic at what God is doing.

Today as most of you know is Easter. Or, as a lady in my church stated today "Resurrection Day". What a wonderful service we had a church today. Angie Prim (a studio vocalist for LOADS of SG artists and more I'm sure) is our new church secretary. She is an AMAZING talent. The Lord uses her in a mighty way. She has the most wonderful spirit about her. She and her family are attending our church and her and her husband have sang a few times now. All I can say is God really out did himself on this family. I was so blessed to hear her and Johnny sing a song today. They sang "Were You There?" and boy did they sing it. Gives me goose bumps thinking about it.

Kym and her husband, Chris, and their daughter, Liberty came over for Easter Dinner. We normally go out to eat, but I bought a big ole Turkey and we had some good home cooking. I do wish Nita (Kym's Mom) would have come. I realize this Easter has to be difficult on her, being the first real holiday since Christmas without Butch (Kym's Daddy). It's only been a few months since he passed. I am praying for all of them, as I know it's a difficult time.

For now, I'm going to bed. I have a meeting tomorrow, and then work, work, work! I pray all of my faithful reader(s) had a wonderful Resurrection Day!

AM out!

About time...how are you?

2005-03-18T10:46:00.000-08:00

I know...it's been quite awhile since I've posted. I apologize to all my wanting fans! LOL ::rolling eyes::

I've been extremely busy with SSE Group (formerly known as Southern Spin), and then we had a Crusade at church this week. It's been C-R-A-Z-Y! We've added two new clients to the web and publicity portion of SSE Group in the last 2 weeks. We're excited about working with The Glovers and Family Legacy. I'll give you all a preview when we get close to getting them up and running.

A couple things I've noticed in websites lately. I wanted to just say a few words. Please do not take any offense...I'm talking strictly business here. Here's a bit of advice to all you looking to get a website done (and I'm not trying to solicit your business): JUST BECAUSE IT'S CHEAP or FREE, DOESN'T MEAN IT'S GOOD! Granted, there are some web designers that feel led to do a site for a ministry as a blessing to that ministry, and they are good designs. However, if this webdesigner is going to use any of the following, tell them you appreciate it, but no thank you.
1. LOUD and LARGE obnoxious fonts (LIME GREEN is NOT a good font color)
2. MUSIC that plays LOUDLY and automatically with no way of turning it off. (Let the viewer decide if they want to listen to your music or not - don't force it on them)
3. Flash! UGH...I detest flash. Before you say anything, I realize I have artists who have flash. But it would only be because they wanted it, and NOT because I recommended it. 95% of the time, if there is a "skip flash entry" link, your view is going to click it before even looking at the Flash.
4. Flash Mouse Effects! ICKY. Nothing is more aggravating than trying to surf a site and the mouse won't stay still.
5. RAM sound clips. This is just a personal pet peeve of mine. MP3's are by far more popular than a RAM. Not to mention the fact that only certain players will play RAM's. If I have to go and DOWNLOAD a player just to play your clips, I will never download your song clips. I'll just go on to someone else's site.

I dunno, maybe it's late and I'm just being critical. (Yes I have a critical side to me! haha) But the above has to be my TOP 5 pet peeves of web designs.

One more thing. I was doing my daily walking the other day and passed by a stranger. She said, "how you doing today?" And I was walking so fast that I didn't get to really answer her, nor ask her how her day was going. How sad...and quite rude of me. I hope I can do better at this. Maybe she needed someone to ask her about her day. Maybe she needed someone to care for a moment. Lord may I be more alert of the opportunities to share you!!

Think about it!!

So, how are you?

What's happening today?

2005-03-08T09:09:00.000-08:00

So, I decided to write because I haven't done so in a few days. And I know my fan club is dying to hear from me, right Mom? LOL

Things are good, but busy. Exciting news...not sure if I shared it with you. Kym and her family have decided that they will start coming to my church! Hooray! Of course, it will be tough on them. They live about an hour and 15 minutes from ME, so about an hour and a half from the church. BUT, I'm believing that they will find a place even CLOSER to me! haha Ya'll help me pray. It's so awesome to have Kym around. I've missed her so much in the past when she lived so far away. I'll have to take some pictures and post them. You've got to see her little girl, Liberty. She's a mess.

So, in regards to the last post of me getting old, it's true. Well, either that or I've got ADD. Yesterday was cleaning day, so I was putting some laundry on. Normally I let a little water fill the washer, then add my detergent, then add the laundry. This prevents the detergent from staining the clothes. Yesterday, I went to do something else while the water was running a bit. TOTALLY forgot about the laundry. 15 minutes later, I walk into the kitchen and hear the washer running, and I remember that I didn't put any laundry in the washer. So, the washer got a good cleaning. UGh...

In regards to Southern Gospel, it's a little over a month till the 2005 SGN Music Awards Celebration. This is SGN's first big Celebration and they are excited about who's coming to perform and who will be there to accept their awards. You can find out more about that here.

Also, SGN has a FULL program for their Gospel Music Fan Festival. LOADS of artists coming out, and it's ALL free to the public (although a love offering will be taken each night to help offset the cost of the Festival). There's also a talent contest which will be held the Saturday morning of the Festival. More info can be found on the Gospel Music Fan Festival website.

Then, of course, there's the SGM Fan Fair (TOTALLY different event than the GM Fan Festival). It's in August and will be held in Chattanooga. A few peeps have been getting the GM Fan Festival confused with the SGM Fan Fair. I believe a few of the same artists are performing on both, but there are a lot of differences in the two events. One being, GM Fan Festival is a 4 day free event, and SGM Fan Fair is 6 day ticketed.

Both are definitely going to be fun events though. And I plan on being at both!

I got to go, I've got lots of work today! I'm outta here!

Getting Old

2005-03-02T21:54:00.000-08:00

I think I'm getting old. Seriously. I walked this morning, you know, trying to "get healthy". Now, my WHOLE body hurts. Not to mention, I am just not into the things I used to be into. I was never much of a partier, but I could handle a little bit of loud music and some friends hanging out. Now, I am much happier with a few peeps hanging out at the house, for pizza and a quiet movie. LOL

We sang Sunday night at a wonderful church. They were all very nice. Dad has this thing where he likes to introduce us on stage. He usually tells our ages. This year...for some reason, he has stopped telling my age, and has now started MUMBLING it. In other words, he says it so that no one really understands him. I figured I had a few more years before I had to start mumbling my age...guess I'm older than I thought. LOL (Scoot and Sam, keep your comments to yourself!)

I know I haven't posted in a few days. I've been working up a storm. Plus, Kym -my best friend- came in town this weekend. She brought Liberty (her daughter, who btw, is the CUTEST thing you've ever seen), Anita (her momma), and Chris (her husband). Kym is expecting again, and hoping for a boy. I'm so excited to be near her while she's pregnant. I can't wait to throw her a party! Please continue to pray for her and her momma especially. I can't imagine what they are going through with the loss of Kym's daddy. "Mom" (Anita) has been on my mind the last few days since she left. I do wish they would move just a few more minutes closer so that us girls could hang out more often. My heart breaks for them, and I pray that in time, God will heal them of this sorrow.

Ok, so I've been promising new pics of my baby (magnum). So, here they are:

Magnum at 6 months

Magnum again at 6 months

Higgy getting into trouble

Higgins being good!

Anyway, they are awesome dogs! They are good protectors, although Maggie is still at the stage where he likes to bark, but runs if a stranger or strange dog comes near him. He's comical to watch.

Not much going on in the SG world, that I'm aware of. I've been hiding offline for a few days so I could get some work done. Sorry to the SGN chat room...I've missed the comedy! But...I do have a few sites I'd love for you all to get a "sneak peak" at. Remember they are not fully finished, so no critiquing or judging of them yet!

http://sondraburnett.com
http://voicefullpraise.com
http://heirbornquartet.com
http://gerondavisandkindredsouls.com
http://johnnyminick.com
http://stevehurstschoolofmusic.com (now taking tuition and registration payments)
http://crystalriveronline.net

There ya go...told ya I've been busy! LOL

I'm outta here!!

What's in a name?

2005-02-25T09:03:00.000-08:00

Ok...so we (Chris, Leah, Mattie, and I) went to go see Hitch last night. GO SEE THIS MOVIE! It's classic! It was so funny. Even Chris rated it 8.5 our of 10. Chris is tough on movies, so it has to be good. I haven't laughed at a movie like that in forever.

Thank you to all who posted comments, lately. It's an epidemic I think. LOL Did I mention that I recently chatted with Tracy Crouch of the Dixie Echoes the other day. I play a quite funny trick on him. Of course, I really believe he was a bit worried, but doesn't want to admit it. Props to Shay for helping me out on that one. He's a pretty cool guy. VERY sarcastic, which in my opinion is the best! Sorry ladies, he's got a girlfriend right now. ;-)

About this EHarmony thing. I just don't know. The reason why I even said anything about it was because I keep getting these emails about dating sites and it got me thinking. I think it's hilarious..and if I find out who's signing me up for them, I'm gonna be a little hateful to them. LOL I just don't know. I am sorta like Shay on this, there are a BUNCH of crayzees out in the world. I've been emailed, IM'd, and sometimes called by several of them! It would be an experience definitely. Oh, and to Tiff...hun...you obviously don't know my brothers. I have suspicion to believe that they are the reason I currently do NOT have a boyfriend. So, that's a bad idea. Although, Lauren did offer to go with me, carrying a baseball bat, gun, whatever she needed. LOL Thanks girl!

Anyway, Shay posted that she was a genius. Who's the moron that told her that? Seriously, you have to be careful about saying things like that to Shay. Poor girl, she doesn't know anybetter. LOL

About SG...nothing really. Not much going on. I got another #1 party to go to, well, I hope to go. This time it's for Even in the Valley. (It is #1 for the year in the SN magazine - AWESOME honor!) But it's in NC and we are all saving our money to go see my grandfather who is sick at the moment. I hope to make it, but I can't gaurantee it. Time will tell.

Oh...one last thing. Ya'll are NOT helping with a name. I've had like TWO ideas. I'd like to have more please. Let me know what you think I should rename my blog. I dunno, "Days in the Life of Amy Marie" isn't that exciting. Comment or Email me!

I'm outta here! Oh...wait, btw:

Number 1 and Eharmony

2005-02-23T10:55:00.000-08:00

We had the privilege of attending the McRae's #1 party, hosted by Kathy Crabb. First let me say, their (Gerald and Kathy's) house is gorgeous! Kathy has great decorating tastes! LOL

The McRaes are awesome peeps. Those two girls can SANG...and Annie can flat out write some songs. They are truly living what they sing about. We're excited that they are going to be a part of the SGN Awards Celebration and Gospel Music Fan Festival.

Funny thing at the party. Chris and I were talking to Daniel of Christlike, and everyone else was in the food line. We weren't that hungry, plus the line was EXTREMELY long and the room was crowded. (Those that know me, know I HATE crowds) So we were in the hall way chattin...Kathy comes up to us and in her Momma voice says, "ya'll need to get in there and eat, cause we're going to hand out the plaques afterwards and we don't have much time." We said, Ok...we'll go grab something in a sec. She said, "ok!" Daniel said, "who does she think she is, Kathy Crabb?? I'm gonna go eat when I feel like it! " He turns to the kitchen area and smiled. He nodded and said, "yes ma'am...I'm coming"! Not TWO seconds later, before we could even get out of the hall, Rhonda Thompson (radio gal at Daywind) comes in the hall and says, "ya'll need to go in and eat." We told her that we were thinking bout it, but weren't really hungry. She said in a loud voice, "Uh, no! I got enough food for 100 people, and I EXPECT everyone to eat!" She laughed...we laughed, and then we said, "ok..ok...we're going to go eat!"

It was too funny! Guess you had to be there! Daniel, Chris, and I had a laugh out of it!

So, I was in the SGN Chat room last night. I took a poll, and everyone there, cept Shay, said I should go for the EHarmony.com thing. I dunno so much. I've actually had a couple emails bout it too. Then of course, MeBlogSG stated that I should try Hannidate (Sean Hannity's personals page). Cool idea, but no thanks! I looked through it...nothing struck me as WOW. Not to mention, I would say 75% of them were OVER 40. A little too old for me!

Ok, so I'm workin on getting my own site for my blog. BUT, I need a new name for it. Obviously, I'm not creative when it comes to "phrases" and such...so I need your help. Comment or email me and let me know what you think I should rename my blog!!

I gotta get some work done!!

OUT!

Home Sweet Home

2005-02-21T21:12:00.000-08:00

I'm home. I get to enjoy my own bed tonight. How lovely it will be.

I do have to tell you what happened though, my last night at the Beauvais'. The kiddos fell asleep downstairs watching TV. So, I woke Josh up, cause he was all sprawled out on the reclining chair snorin. I told him he'd prolly be more comfortable upstairs. I left Jenna on the couch cause she seemed to be comfortable. I think I fell asleep somewhere around 12:30, cause I was in the middle of a Providence re-run. All I remember is being scared to death by thunder and lightening. It seemed to be right outside my window and felt as though it shook the house. I ran to the window to see if any catastrophy had happened outside. Once everything was calm, I headed toward the hall to go check on Jenna downstairs. Before I could even open the door, Jenna was there. She scared me half to death...as if my heart could take anymore after the house-shaking thunder and lightening.

Jenna then stated that she wasn't feeling too good...so I let her stay in the bed with me. We turned on the TV to watch the news for weather info. After a few more moments she began to get, REALLY sick, so I shoved her in the bathroom and said..."wait here, I'll get a bowl and a cold rag". LOL Ok, so I didn't shove her, but close. So, she was up the rest of the night tossing and turning...while I was up watching the news as the storm passed by. (I HATE rain...much less storms)

Anyway, at about 8:30 am, I got out of the bed and went downstairs to clean up a little. I do hope the house wasn't a total wreck for Mom and Dad Beauvais when they arrived home.

I love the kiddos, but I'm glad to be back home. I missed my bed and Magnum! He's been following me around all night long. Yes, he loves me. Prolly the only boy who does! LOL

BTW..speaking of boys. SGN has had a few peeps suggest that they start a "singles" area on the board, so that us singles can meet other singles. I say, no thanks. I stoopidly filled out the VERY long app for Christian Cafe I wanted to see what the deal was all about. I got TWO inquiries...one from someone in Africa and the other was just really weird. I am not sure how I feel about internet dating companies. No doubt, some have found their soul mates online, but I feel funny bout it. I jokingly tell my family that I'm going to join EHarmony.com (weird that a commercial for it JUST came on as I'm typing this). I've often wondered if I should really try it, but then I'm reminded of my Christian Cafe experience. It's too much digging, like trying to find a needle in a haystack. What do you think? Leave me a comment. Do you think EHarmony would be something a single girl should look into?

So, I've learned a little something new about my friend Shay. She is 1/4 catholic and 3/4 baptist. Interesting. Someone called her a batholic. LOL Glad she knows who she is and ain't afraid to tell it!

I'm out...my bed is calling. Ya'll go visit Hope's Call's site and thank them for letting me stay with their kids so that I have something to write about in my blog! LOL

AM OUT!

one more night...

2005-02-20T20:15:00.000-08:00

So, it's one more night at the Beauvais' house. Tomorrow evening the kiddos 'rents will be home from their TEN day trip. I know Donna misses her kids...she calls all the time just to say "I love you". LOL It's sickening. We've never been a "lovey dovey to each other" kind of family (cept when we were little), so when I see it, it cracks me up. I love it, I think it's great!

That prolly sounds like we don't love or care for each other in our family. Hardly. If we didn't, we'd tell our handicapped mom to go take a hike, prolly put her in a home. However, she spent years taking care of us...I think it's just payback! LOL She'd tell you the same thing. haha

Speakin of Mom, you need to check out her blog. Her latest post will have you crying like a baby and then rushing out to feed a homeless person. LOL Check it out: I Love Southern Gospel Music

So, back to the one more night thing. I love staying with the kiddos, but I'm ready for my own bed! LOL Ain't nothing like your own bed, blankets, pillows, puppy!! I miss Magnum, and I think he misses me. I'll go over to check on something at the house, and he'll attack me coming in the door. He's too cute and makes everything else in the world seem like nothing.

As to anything SG...can't think of it right now. Just that I'm working on Sondra Burnett's site...as well as a few more: Gateway Promotions, Crystal River, Heirborn, and a few others. I got a meeting with another "potential" client tomorrow afternoon. It's gonna be a good year, I believe.

I'm going to go play Sims 2 for awhile. I need to relax, been workin like crazy!

OUT!

Acts of Random or Random Acts...Whatever

2005-02-18T23:52:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I was logging in here to post and I saw my profile pic, the one of me and Scott and Michael English, and I SWEAR Michael turned his head. LOL This is what you call too much coffee at 1:00 in the morning. I drank a couple cups cause I'm freezing. I have two pairs of socks on and they are not working.

**Warning...the next two paragraphs will be another one of those "toast and jelly" posts**
So, this Sam guy who keeps leaving comments on my blog, he's a NUT. Shay...I finally saw a pic...he's a SKINNY BOY! :-p Blames his metabolism! Hmmpph! ;-)

MAGNUM. I miss him. It's been almost 10 days since I've got to spend a day with him. He's getting so big. He's now a little over 6 months and going through that "growing up" stage...what we humans like to call puberty. This is what the vet tells me anyway. All of a sudden, he doesn't like people. I dunno what it is. He is scared of them. He barks and barks, and then runs away. I want him to like people cause people like him. I don't know how to stop him from this "fear" he's seemed to have taken hold of. I do miss him though. At night he usually falls a sleep on the floor next to my bed, but wakes up in the middle of the night and sleeps on my feet. Then, patiently waits for me to wake up in the morning...slowly creeping up to the head of the bed. It cracks me up!

Anyway, enough about my toast and jelly! Southern Gospel Music is going to have to keep their eye out for our new client, Crystal River. These boys have it going on! They have the look and the sound. Only time will tell. I am excited to be representing them and looking forward to a great year with all of our clients. I'm workin on a design for them and as soon as it's approved, I'll place the link here so you all can go check em out for yourselves.

We're meeting with a potential client Monday, and have been talking to another on the phone just recently. Would love to sign them!

Currently, I'm still babysitting the Beauvais' kiddos, while Hope's Call is on a 10 day road trip singing for Jesus. Donna is overwhelmed with the ministry their new song "You Are Loved" is doing. She is a fan of Jesus and I believe this song will forevermore be her theme in life. She is the perfect example of the love of Christ and has a wonderful testimony. I'm so proud of the whole group! They are wonderful people. If they are in your area, go see them!! You will be blessed and LOVED!

I'm out...it's late and I'm tired!

Jelly and Toast

2005-02-18T07:59:00.000-08:00

So, after my last post, I've had several inquiries of the jelly on my toast. So for all to see, here's what I like:

I prefer apple butter, but if I have to choose jelly, it's gonna be grape. I like jam better cause it goes on smoother. And if I'm going to have jam, I like the little packets of strawberry jam that Cracker Barrell and IHop give you. Those are the best!

Looks like we're headed to Chattanooga tomorrow to sing. I'm not even sure where we're singing, it's some sorta Gospel Jamboree. They don't tell me these things. lol I just get up and go.

Wanted to give a shout out to my friend SAM, whom I just recently met on SGN message boards. He's a sarcastic funny man, which in turn makes him REALLY funny and cool. Thanks for posting a comment TWICE sam! I know, I know...stoopid computer. Still waitin on the pic Sam!

My friend Shay seems to be getting into trouble lately. According to her it's for absolutely nothing. LOL What's new Shay. I've been getting in trouble for that for a LONG time. Some peeps just like to give me trouble cause they "think" I (or my family) got some sorta power in the industry. Go figure. If that were the case....well, I won't go into! LOL

That leads me to my next question...can you have a power trip if you don't have power? And if you can, what's it called? Wanna-be power trip? OH my, I know lots of peeps like that...haha I think I knew peeps like that in High School. (Thank God I'm out of high school) I guess some will say they still know peeps who act like they are in high school, true dat! Don't we all!

Anyway, I'm seem to be rambling about a whole lot of nothing. There's not much going on right now. I'm workin on a couple of sites for my clients, while waiting for information from other clients. I been workin hard these last few days getting caught up. But I know it's all gonna flood in again all at once.

I was in the SGN chat room the other night and we got on the discussion of Kirk Talley. No worries, it wasn't bad. One person did say that they thought Kirk was getting back into the ministry too soon. I wonder how long he has to wait. How long did the adulterous woman wait before Christ told her to go and sin no more? I really believe everyone needs to hear Kirk tell his story. It's amazing, and everyone can relate to some sort of struggle in their life.

Ok...so I think I'm done. I'm in a weird mood today. We must go look at a building for the SGN Music Awards Gala, and then come back and take Josh to the Skate Park. He always wants to go somewhere! ;) It's ok though, I make him pay me back by doing the dishes! haha

I'm outta here...

Lunch Break

2005-02-16T10:37:00.000-08:00

It's lunch break here at the Beauvais' household. The kiddos are breaking from their schooling, and I thought while they were eating I'd take a break from my work to post a few thoughts here.

What to write about...hmmm. Well, I could write about what movies I've seen or maybe what type of jellyI like on my toast. But then again, that obviously shows that I wish to draw attention to myself because the peeps I meet in the real world don't give me enough attention I'm desperately searching for.

Ridiculous huh? I thought it to be funny. There are many reasons why peeps write blogs. Blogging really isn't new. When I was in high school I "blogged" although we didn't call it "blogging". We called it an "online diary/journal". Rosie (my best friend) and I would write in DiaryLand. There were many different sites you could go to though. We'd mostly write for our friends and family to keep up with our happenings. You know, typically our thoughts of the day.

I've found that blogging is just a way to share your thoughts with other peeps (friends, families, fans, etc). The purpose for READING a blog is different though. Some read blogs so that they can know what's happening in the life of a friend that they may not live near anymore, or maybe they like to get away and read about someone else's life for a change! LOL You'd be suprised how many peeps like to read about what type of jelly other peeps like on their toast.

Most read because they are curious. Curious that those they "think" are enemies will talk about em; curious of a persons opinion on a subject; curious of gossip; maybe even curious of how well or bad someone is accomplishing their goals in their life.

Why do I write? Cause I want to. LOL I have a lot of friends ALL over the US! Instead of emailing all of them an "update" of my life, I can do it here and they can all come and read. Do I like attention? YES! You'd be lying to yourself if you said you didn't. Do I write my blog for attention? uhm..NO.

Anyway, a friend came across that "line" above and I thought I'd share my thoughts on it, you know, so as to not try to draw attention to myself due to lack of attention in the real world. haha

It's back to school in 2 minutes. Maybe I'll get a chance to post again tonight.

Do wanna say a shout out to my new friend Samalama_Dingdong (we call him Sam for short). Shay and I had a blast with him and ZehDuck in the chat room last night. Thanks for the laughs guys. You're really cool cats...even if you do like Ashlee and Jessica Simpson or Britney Spears. (ucky)

LATER!

Grace, Grace

2005-02-14T19:46:00.000-08:00

What a weekend. Ok, what a Lord's Day! I can't remember the last time I've been uplifted in a service as I was this past Sunday. Sunday morning was a treat for us, as we had a special guest, Kirk Talley. What an AMAZING testimony this man has of the GRACE and MERCY or our Lord!

God moved, and many lives were changed because of his testimony. What an encouragement to the church. He speaks of grace and not judgement. Mercy and not ridicule. What a message to the church he brings. I want to encourage anyone who can to GO see him next time he's in your area. You will leave totally changed!

How amazing God's grace is. Not just to those who love Him, but to those who forget Him. How great and wonderful is our God.

Sunday night was good too! :-p Bro. Johnny preached. I love to hear him preach!

Ok...so today is Valentine's day (Satan's Day, Singles Awareness day, whatever you wanna call it). Happy Birthday to my older bro, Scott! He turns REALLY OLD today! :-p
As for Valentine's day...I don't celebrate. LOL What's the point? It's not even the most romantic holiday. It's just a reason for girls to get chocolate and guys to pay. I keep feeling as though I should be feeling sorrowful on this day, since I'm VERY much single. However, though there is an inkling of wish that I wasn't single, I am confident in myself and GOD enough to NOT let this day bother me. I hope many of my other single friends will learn to do the same.

Until tomorrow or the next day! :-p

Clean, Clean, Clean

2005-02-09T19:54:00.000-08:00

So, my aunt and grandparents are coming into town this weekend. Well, only ONE day. But you should see the cleaning I'm having to do. LOL

I'm desperately trying to get more organized in my life. SO, with that in mind, I've designated Mondays to be my cleaning and finance day. Every Monday I clean the house (vacuum, dust, etc) and then I work on entering in all the monies I spent during the past week (it's not much, so that part doesn't take long). Then, I can work! Craziness.

Since my aunt and grandparents are coming into town, I decided to get the house in tip top shape. In other words, I had spring cleaning in the winter. I'm about wore out. I've spent the last 3 days cleaning the house from top to bottom. I feel like one of those maids from that show that goes into FILTHY houses to clean (although ours is not that bad - THANK GOD!).

I had to take a break and rest, which is why I'm writing here. In a few I'll go back and clean the carpets and then make sure my room is all in order and the dirty clothes are hidden! haha Then I will work a bit.

Of course the company will be in probably early in the morning. Knowing them, they will leave their house about 5:00 am putting them here at OUR house about 10:00-ish! There goes my beauty sleep!

All in all, it's been a good week. We've had two more clients sign...Voice Full Praise out of Paris, TN and Crystal River out of Knoxville, TN (both websites will be up shortly). I'm excited. I know God is going to do some MAJOR things this year. He's already started...

This weekend marks the event of the Crabb Family with Avalon in Gatlinburg. Though I want to go, I'm afraid I won't make it. I have agreed to stay with the Beauvais' kiddos again (that's Hope's Call kiddos). Hope's Call will be out on a 10 -TEN- day trip. So, next time I write, I will probably be over there and have some fun story to tell bout the kiddos!

Maggie-poo is growing like a week. He got a bath tonight so he is all ready for company. All he wants to do is play...it's rather irritating. I've done decided that I don't need to get married or have kids...I have him! LOL He's such a baby!! ;-) I love him though...even if he does like to pounce like a cat and stand on the edge of the couch like he's King of the Mountain!

Ok...I've rested long enough. Time to go clean some more! I feel like Annie in the orphanage! "yes ms hannigan"

AM out!!

laser tag - a no!

2005-02-04T19:43:00.000-08:00

So, the twenties and thirties (TNT's as we are now calling them) planned to go laser tagging tonight. I chose to stay home and work. FUN! I am just not the laser tag kinda girl. I can't say that I'm getting much done...although I've got a few sites updated, FINALLY! LOL I hate having anything in my inbox or on my "to do" list.

Yesterday we went to see a movie. Alone in the Dark. DON'T go see it! It's HORRIBLE. The acting is horrible, the plot is horrible, it's just plain horrible. Of course it's not the worst I've ever seen. That award would go to Open Water. BAD BAD BAD movie!

Not much to post on right now. Chris has been sick and I've been workin. That's about it! :-)

My friend Shay and I have been chattin, once again! We've come up with the slogan, GIRL BLOGGERS RULE! So, I made a little logo for us! Us girl bloggers gotta stay together! haha

I'm out!

Sickness and the Imps...

2005-02-01T09:59:00.000-08:00

Sickness seems to run rampant in our family since the first of the year. Chris is now in bed sick with the flu. At least that's what we think it is, considering Leah and her sister Noel (friends from church, whom we spend a lot of time with) are suffering from the same thing. ICKY...apparently it is contagious so they are to stay away from peeps for about 3 to 4 days. Good luck on that one! He's laying all over the couch spreading his germs all over it. Where are we supposed to sit now? :-)

Since he's sick, he missed the concert here locally with the Imperials. These guys are amazing. There is so much talent running from them, it's oozing out! ;-) Ian Owens is an amazing bass singer. I would put him up with the big boys anytime. Shannon Smith is an awesome lead singer, he can reach some notes that a tenor should be hitting. And the tenor...Jeremie Hudson, wow. I'm amazed at how high he sings with little to no effort. It's like it just pops out! LOL And Jason Morales is becoming a fine baritone. He's really learning to blend like a true baritone. Although something is going to have to be done with his pride! LOL Whenever his little girl is in the room, he doesn't quit looking and grinning at her.

It was a good weekend. Now it's back to work. Meeting with a "potential" client Wednesday. It's exciting to see the peeps God puts in our paths.

Southern Spin Radio has been getting a LOT of hits! We are extremely excited about this station. Seems others are too, according to the stats. We've had a lot of compliments on the playlist.

I'm a little disappointed that my normal everyday life doesn't get near as many comments as when I comment on other SG boards and/or blogs. My life must not be as interesting as I thought it was! ;-) oh well...such is life!

OUT!

A suprise email...

2005-01-29T09:51:00.000-08:00

First of all...thanks to all who commented. I do want to say that I allow comments, I can take them off at anytime. Technically this is a personal blog, displayed publically. You're only free to make comments because I allow it. If some continue to abuse this privilege, I will turn the comments section off.

I am shocked that so many actually read my blog. LOL I will warn you, there's nothing interesting here, just the thoughts on the days in my life! ;-)

Secondly, I received an email yesterday that brightened my day. An old co-worker of mine (one, who I had no good email addy on) emailed me. She told me that her choir was singing this new song, "Even In the Valley" written by a Rebecca Peck and Marie Unthank. She wanted to know if that was me. I couldn't help but laugh.

Rebecca has been wonderful in every step of this songwriting. She has taught me so much and I owe a lot to her. I hope to work with her more in the future. We pushed the song to print and fortunately they took it! But, there was a misunderstaning with the first print run, and my name was shortened to Marie Unthank. LOL

Needless to say, it was my song my friend was singing. It's cool the way God works. She blessed me in telling me of my song and how she liked it, and I also got her working email, so that I may keep up with her.

That email got me to thinking of another co-worker, whom I try to keep up with occassionally. Tina and I always got along really well and she taught me a lot about life, and was always there to listen to my seriously ignorant love stories. Haha...I miss having her around to talk to. I emailed her and she replied with a statement that comforted me. She said, "I think of you often girl, and miss you, and I know our paths will cross again, but until then we do have email :)" How inspiring, but then again, Tina has always been that way to me! Love ya girl!

As to my life right now, it's busy. I'm keeping up with all the SG Blogs, making sure my business is totally re-organized (and staying that way-haha), hanging out with friends when time permits so that I'm not catagorized as a lonely ole maid, as well as find the time for myself to relax and just love the Lord. Sometimes we get so busy, we forget about that last one. I love my job. I am at home with my family (YES, I still live at home!). I am close and here when they need me. I get to work with my family as well. THAT can be fun, but also LOUD! LOL

A friend, who also writes a blog, recently wrote: "Take a few moments and think about what you are really proud of. Does it make you feel more grateful - or more arrogant? Be grateful for the accomplishments you enjoy, and to the people who’ve helped you along the way." When I think about what I am proud of...I can honestly say I am grateful. I'm thankful for my family, who have shown nothing but love and support (although sometimes they tell me what they really think - haha); for my friends, who have encouraged me in everything I do, even if it's stupid; for my clients, who trust us to lead them in the right direction and spreading word of our Company to other artists; and finally I'm thankful that God would give me the opportunity to sing (my hearts desire), to write (something that's still new to me), and to own a company that will help my clients reach the goals they have set.

Anyway, just got a little sentimental...couldn't help myself! ;-)

I've got to go do some work. I'm out!!

It's me again...

2005-01-25T21:17:00.000-08:00

I had to post really quick, just to correct Mr. Harrison on a couple of URL's. If Mr. Harrison would've done his homework, he would have found the OBVIOUS link for the Stamps Baxter School of Music here: http://stampsbaxterschool.com

Also, the official site for The Klaudt Indian Family is http://klaudtmemorial.com

It kind of humors me to see someone ramble on and complain about something they haven't correct information on. ;-)

Surprisingly, though, I will agree with Mr. Harrison on one aspect. I too was quite pleasantly surprised at the American Idol tonight. I thought for sure they wouldn't let the poor music minister in. He was quite good, and I'm anxious to see how far he goes.

OUT!

Extra, Extra, Read all about it!

2005-01-25T13:49:00.000-08:00

Ok...so for awhile now, I've been talking about some new and exciting things going on for Southern Spin. Well, read it for yourself in the following press release we just sent out:

"Southern Spin Entertainment Reorganizes
Company celebrates 2nd year

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Southern Spin Entertainment, Southern Gospel’s leading publicity and marketing firm recently celebrated its second year of business. The firm has grown from seven clients in its first year to over 30 clients today.

“Words can not explain how fast this company has grown in two short years,” recalled Amy Marie Unthank. “We’ve seen clients come and go, but we know that it’s all been to the benefit of this company. God’s brought the right people to this company, and for that, we can’t be more grateful.”

Upon the beginning of its third year in existence, Southern Spin Entertainment is also announcing the reorganization of the company.

“There is just so much now that we feel we can offer,” recalled Unthank, “especially now that we’ve gained so much valuable experience as our own company. We’re excited about what the future holds for this company and now its many divisions.”

Southern Spin Entertainment will now fall under a main conglomerate to be called SSE Group. SSE Group will now have four main divisions: Southern Spin Entertainment, SSE Design Group, Southern Spin Artist Direction, and Southern Spin Radio.

Southern Spin Entertainment will continue to be the publicity and marketing firm which helped establish the company. All artists signed to Southern Spin Entertainment remain under that company. This division does minor publicity and designs and organizes press kits for clients.

SSE Design Group is the division that does web publishing and internet promotions. The separation of the publicity and web publishing was to attract clients outside of the Southern Gospel genre. Glorious Creations, the web design company that Southern Spin Entertainment acquired last year will also fall under this umbrella.

Southern Spin Artist Direction is a new management and consultation branch. Details about Southern Spin Artist Direction will be forthcoming.

Southern Spin Radio has just recently been launched. Southern Spin Radio is an online radio station dedicated having a strong mix of progressive, traditional, country, bluegrass, and inspirational based Southern Gospel songs in rotation.

Southern Spin Radio went live Sunday afternoon. The station includes a programming committee which decides additions to the play list. Current members of the Advisory Committee include critics, industry veterans, artists, and fans.

“We’ve been planning this radio station for a long time,” said Amy Marie Unthank. “The station has been in the works for a while now. We’re excited to finally get it off the ground.”

Southern Spin Radio has its own main site, as well as eventually having a portal to hear the station from SouthernGospelNews.com.

Southern Spin Radio can be found at http://southernspinradio.com .

SSE Group currently owns and operates Glorious Creations, SGBlogNews.com, GospelMusings.com, and WorldofCM.com.

Artists and clients currently under contract with SSE Group include Geron Davis & Kindred Souls, SouthernGospelNews.com, Johnny Minick, The Imperials, Steve Hurst School of Music, Stamps-Baxter School of Music, Bowlings, Christlike, HisSong, Embrace, Jonathan White, Sondra Burnett, Sunday Edition, Three Hills Music Group, and many more.

About SSE Group
SSE Group is a conglomerate of different companies working in the gospel music industry. SSE Group is owned and operated by Amy Marie Unthank and Chris D. Unthank. The company has four divisions currently: Southern Spin Entertainment (a publicity and marketing firm), Southern Spin Radio (online radio station), SSE Design Group (web design and publishing), and Southern Spin Artist Direction (management and consultation).

For more information on SSE Group, go to http://ssegrouponline.com ."

We are so excited about this! This year is already off to a great start! Thank you to all of our clients, friends, and family members who support us. We'll be releasing more info about the Southern Spin Artist Direction at a later time. Until then, listen in to our new radio station!

AM OUT!

Pushing Forward

2005-01-22T10:44:00.000-08:00

I know I know...a little behind! It's been crazy busy. I've even had Chris working lately! LOL

I was glad to see the responses to my last post regarding Doug Harrison's picture on his site. A couple comments....

I don't care what the reasoning for the picture was, it certainly did not look like exhaustion to the normal eye. If that was reasoning for the picture, it should have been CLEARLY stated. It never was. And what is one to expect when they see champaigne/beer bottles and glasses all over a desk with a guy behind the desk passed out. Come on! I suppose we all have the right to make any "excuse" we wish.

Why some continue to call the revealing of his identity the "big outing". You know, when I was a child, I spoke as a child, when I became a man(woman) I put away my childish things. I wish some could learn to do that. I refuse to continue the defending. People can believe what they want. The truth will always win!

Another commenter stated they don't get caught up with such things. Well good for you! I'm glad that you don't mind if peeps have the impression that our music is full of drunkards! Bravo for not getting caught up with such things! It's comical to me that this such thing doesn't get you all caught up, but say, something like using an innocent person to get a booking and then slamming them all over a message board because they have been known to create new screen names for themselves?? Yeah, that's what we should be getting caught up on! You know who you are!

I've just been really disappointed in some so called Christians as of late. Why is it that we Christians are always the FIRST one's to get all bent out of shape about the silliest things, and ignore the important things. My comment of Harrison's picture was one of disappointment. His site states "SG for the rest of us". Yet, all he cares to comment on is the negative hearsay. His recent post of Rick Hendrix is one example. He obviously has peeps who feed him, and pretty soon those feeders are going to show themselves.

SG is not a bad industry. Yes, it has it's negatives, but it's not made up of mostly negative. There are so many good things about it too. Do you think that Harrison's backbiting and slander will HELP change the bad to good? Doubtful. I have to ask myself, as Gospel Commentary states, WWJD? What would Jesus do? There would be no hope for any of us today if Jesus followed Harrison's steps. Thank GOD Jesus loved us. In spite of our spots and wrinkles...

I choose to push forward, to LOVE the genre and to speak as though I love it. I will strive to change that which does us no good, and keep that which binds us together.

On another topic, my puppy is growing like a weed! He's SO big..19.8 pounds to be exact. He's a horse! I'll have to get a current pic up for you to see. The vet told me yesterday he is uhm..."growing up" into dog-hood. He's leaving his puppy things for bigger and better things! LOL He will always be a puppy to me though! ;-)

I must go...we are working on some exciting things for Southern Spin. You'll hear about it soon. Until then, check out the news release we just put out...MARK YOUR CALENDARS!! Gospel Music Fan Festival is going to ROCK this year!!!

What a disappointment

2005-01-12T15:32:00.000-08:00

As much as I dislike many posts by Doug Harrison, the picture he currently has up on his blog is the most disturbing. He's writing a blog on Southern Gospel for the rest of us, and has a picture of a man at a computer with a bag over his head, dead drunk (bottles all over the desk). This is not the picture I would want to represent a blog featuring Southern Gospel music, regardless of my opinion on drinking alcoholic beverages or not. A little respect for the genre you so claim to love, Mr. Harrison, would take you a long ways!

Update...

2005-01-08T10:43:00.000-08:00

Quick update on Scott.

They did not do emergency surgery. One hospital didn't have room for him and told the ER doc to handle the situation with a warm compress and ibuprofen. The ER doc was not happy with that, having seen Scott's arm.

He was sent and admitted to Centinial Medical Center in Nashville. Today, he is expected to have a Doplar Test (a cadallic of ultra sounds). Afterwhich, he will see a vascular surgeon. Mostly likely he will have to have surgery. They are not putting him on blood thinners for fear the clot might break up and move to his brain, heart, or lungs. The clot runs from the crease of his elbow to just a little pass his shoulder. (yeah, it's big!)

He most likely has a couple of rough days ahead of him. Please pray for him, and the family as well. Seems we've been spent our first week of the year in hospitals!

Thank you for all who've emailed, called, posted, and prayed! We appreciate it greatly!

Emergency Surgery

2005-01-07T17:32:00.000-08:00

It seems as though this year so far has been filled with Hospital visits. We are currently on our way to the hospital yet again. Scott was running a fever last night and complaining of his arm being sore. It was red today and had swollen a bit more. We told him to go to the ER. He went about 4:00. Around 6:30 dad called from the hospital and said that Scott had a blood clot and blood infection. He called about 30 mintues later to tell us that they were going to be sending Scott to another hospital for emergency surgery. Seems the blood clot is moving from his arm to his chest.

I am requesting prayer, since I have a moment while waiting to find out which hospital they are taking him. Please pray for him. He's pretty drugged right now, but I know that he was scared when he heard the news...and this is going to be something difficult to deal with.

AM - out!

'Bout Time

2005-01-06T20:37:00.000-08:00

Wow! What a crazy year it's already been. Six days into the new year and it's already been a wild ride. I would've written soon, but I haven't had a chance, to be honest. Here's what's happened:

Worked at getting HisSong's new website up and running (which it is just about done now, see it for yourself http://hissongmusic.com) the last few days of the year. I watned to get it up and running by the first.

Dad had a procedure on his eyes around the 28th. His tear ducts were stopped up, which caused his eyes to water constantly. (wierd, I know) They stuck wires through the corner of his eyes (while he was awake, no pain medicine) and tried to create a whole in which the tears could drain. He was sore the next couple days, but seems to be doing fine now.

The day before New Year's Eve, I was just about to finish up work and head to bed, when Scott came begging me to take him to the ER. He was having a really bad Migrane. So, I took him, only to return around 6:00 am.

New Years Eve, we (Sunday Edition) sang at a small local church here near town. It was interesting, but really good food! LOL We got in around 1:00 am, then I left to go let the Beauvais' (Hope's Call) dog outside to do her thing and decided to go get us some Krystal's (they were the only place open). Mom wasn't feeling too good from a cold she had been fighting and was a little hungry. I got back and got settled in for bed, around 2:30 am. At 4:00 am, Dad comes busting into my room telling me he's called an ambulance for Mom and he needed me to take Mom's Bi-Pap machine to the hospital for her (she can't lay down without it).

Dad and I sat at the hospital all day it seemed. Mom finally got a room and we went home to take a nap around 1:30 pm. Having only an hour of sleep is rough on one's body. We napped, but only about 3 hours, then we left for the hospital to visit mom. Dad offered to stay the night with her, so Chris and I came on home around 8:00 pm.

At 9:00 pm...Scott came back into my room hardly able to stand up. Chris and I took him back to the ER . We were there until 5:00 am. We finally hit the hay around 6:00 am. I don't think I've actually caught up on sleep yet.

Both Scott and Mom are home from the hospital. Thank you to all who have been praying for them.

Now, things seem to be calming down. If I could only get caught up with Southern Spin. We're workin on something new, but I want to get caught up first.

In the SG world, not much going on. Billy Hodges was declared tenor for Kingdom Heirs. Perfect job for any singer. Travel 6 months, stay home for 6 months. Couldn't get any better. Seems this is unsettling news to some peeps. It's sad that some show their true colors, while others are masked behind fluffy words of kindness. I, however, wish my dear friend well in this new adventure. I knew he wouldn't stay away for long. I first met Billy at Steve Hurst School of Music, way back when! I had the biggest crush on him! haha I believe it was the same year that Jason Waldroup (of Greater Vision) attended. I could be wrong but I believe that was it. Man, so many memories. That school changed my life in so many ways...gave me many friends!

A funny thing... a couple of bloggers are shocked at SoGospelNews.com mentioning Singing News on their front page, and Singing News printing a press release about Susan Unthank (Mom) being hospitalized. I don't know why this is such a shock to some. Sure there were/are certain things Singing News and SoGospelNews.com have differing opinions about, but I don't believe they ever hated each other. Hate is such an evil word! Geez...some peeps are just lookin for dirt!

One last thing...I've been quite disappointed in a few peeps. I've been reading some of their posts on another board. I am always quite amused at those that like to preach the Word, instead of applying it to their own lives. You know it's sorta like pointing out the stick on a friends eye, while ignoring the LOG in yours. To publicly criticize a person, judging them for something they've done, which you probably don't even know the whole story is wrong. But to do it AFTER you've used that person for something you needed or wanted, is TOTALLY WRONG! To pretend to be one's friend, ask for something from them, then publicly criticize, JUDGE, and preachto them on a message board (even if you didn't mention their name) is absolutely sickening to me. My stomach literally turns. Nothing good can come of it.

On that, I leave you to think of how you treat others. I know this conversation has made me aware of how I treat others.

OUT!

Christmas, Revealing, and My Life in General

2004-12-26T13:41:00.000-08:00

Chrismas! I love this time of year. I love waiting until everyone goes to bed at night (on Christmas Eve) and filling all the stockings with candies and small presents. Usually there's something I have to build or put together for someone, place a big bow on it, and then sit it out under the tree. I love it! I love the attitude Christmas tends to give people. One of love and joy, or peace and goodwill. Christmas brings out the giving in peeps. Think about it, why do you see all the "angel trees" the salvation army puts out, or all the care packages being sent out to Military. Not that we don't do it at other times of the year, but there is an over abundance of giving at Christmas time. I like to think it's because of the One who gave the most. Thinking on the birth of Christ, I try to imagine what it would be like to give your only son, knowing that in a few years (or minutes, depending on how you look at it) your son would give Himself willingly to give the rest of your children a choice to come home to you or not. Have I mentioned that I love this time of year?

To discuss a little of the SG scene, not that this even qualifies as part of the SG scene, but I want to mention it: The Revealing, as some title it has caused me to giggle so much. I feel like a giddy little school girl. It's quite comical to me what some peeps will conjure up in their minds to be truth. Some of the "letters" to Doug Harrison have me laughing so hard. Let me say one thing, we were not the first to know, and we did not spread rumors. LOL And this one has me rolling: "Susan Unthank was at home on her deathbed" How funny! She had a small case of pneumonia, which to her can be very deadly, yes. But she was never on her deathbed. Where do peeps get this stuff? Oh then there's this one: "they (Unthanks) thought you would implode" Yes, we thought Doug would just disappear! haha Then of course this one, "the people who revealed your identity thought they were going to ruin your 'blogging career'", what a hoot. Yes, we thought we would ruin a career in blogging. Is that even possible, can you have a career in blogging? A blog is someone's opinions, but I guess if one is to suggest that their blog is a news source, then I suppose one could have a career in it. LOL Craziness! Oh, and btw, we were NOT the first one's to know of Doug's identity, though most think we were. It's funny to me how peeps can form opinions on things they really know nothing about. It's even more funny when peeps form opinions on PARTIAL evidence. I feel like I'm back in High School! I guess if I could say one thing to those that don't like me or my family it would be this: Oh well, such is life! :)

It's back to normal now that Christmas is gone. A new year will start in a few days, and I have got to try to get 3 sites fully up by the first of the year. LOL Welcome to my life. I've got about 3 more yet to finish shortly after the first. Not to mention, I've made a resolution to lose a bit of weight! For those who don't know, I'm addicted to sweets, and it's beginning to show on my hips. No need whispering about it, I already know! I've lost it before, I can do it again.

Kym is doing ok. Her momma is going to move down this way with Kym and Chris. (Kym's husband). Thank you to all who emailed me with prayers and support. Her daddy will be missed greatly. But the greatest thing we could ever do for him would be keep on singing. I look forward to seeing Anite (Kym's Mom) on a more regular basis now though. And the good thing is that she will finally get to meet my parents and we will all be able to fellowship together. Mom said something the other day to my dad. Made me cry. She said, "Well, now you're going to have to be Liberty's papa." Liberty is 2 and will no longer get to spend nights laying across her Papa's chest or talking to him on the phone. But, she will one day. Until then, my daddy is willing to be the best papa he can be for her. Not to mention, she has a sibling on the way. What I didn't tell you in my last post was that Kym is expecting. She found out an hour before her daddy passed. Kym has always told me that the only way she would be able to deal with her father's death would be to know that she had another life inside of her. God works in mysterious ways. He knows us! It's good to know that!

I am going to the movies to see "Meet the Fockers", and may come home to watch some oldies in my room with my NEW dvd player! Scott got it for me so that I wouldn't watch them old movies in the living room anymore. LOL Nobody wants to watch them with me. Oh well, such is life! ;)

On that note, I'm out!

What's meant to be a happy day...

2004-12-20T11:03:00.000-08:00

I dont know what to say at this point. I got word from Kym (my best friend) that her daddy passed away Saturday evening. I got a voice mail from her that night about an hour after it happened. She was obviously crying but trying not to. I was so worried but didn't find out what was wrong until Sunday morning. My heart broke for her. I tried to be strong, but towards the end of our conversation I couldn't help but cry.

Butch Brown was such a sweet spirit. He was my "other" daddy. He loved seeing me and Kym together because we were so goofy! LOL He always asked me if I had a boyfriend and was always looking for me. Anytime a boy snubbed me, he would say, "don't worry bout it, he's probably gay anyway!" LOL To some that might not be funny, but it was always meant to help cheer my broken heart up, to make me laugh. I didn't get to see him much. I did get to spend some time on a bus with him, see him sing, see his heart broken for souls that needed to be saved, see him minister to everyone around him, even me. He showed me that it's ok to be proud of the talent God gave me and gave me opportunities to use it that I would not have ever before been able to do. I owe a lot to him. He gave me my best friend!

Kym called again with the arrangements. She started talking about how strong she's trying to be, but I can tell she hurts. I wish so much to be there for her. I think that's what tears my heart up so much. I would want her here if the situation were reversed. Unfortunately, due to the time frame in which it happened and my financial situation, I am unable to travel up to Oklahoma to go to the funeral. So close to Christmas, I can't imagine what their Christmas will be like. How sad! My heart hurts for them!

What's meant to be a happy day in the eyes of the Lord (the going home of a dear saint) is such a sad day for those of us on earth. In service Sunday morning, the spirit moved in such a sweet way. I imagined if Butch (Bubba as some knew him, I just called him "daddy") would've been there. He would've loved it. He would've loved hearing my pastor sing! We had 3 give their lives to the Lord that day, that's just what I could count. Others were at the altar getting what they needed from God. I thought to myself, what a day of rejoicing "daddy" is having. The lucky dog gets to sit at Jesus' feet a little longer than we do. But there will be a day when we will see him again. So, rejoice "daddy"! Sing with the angels a little bit longer and hold mine and Kym's place in the choir!

Until then, may all of you who read this have a BLESSED Christmas! May you realize the reality of life, and give your family the most love, honor, and respect you've ever given. Time is precious; it's a gift. We're not promised tomorrow but we're only given today. Rejoice in the Lord for this day and all He gives in this day!

AM Out!

Just an update...

2004-12-14T21:27:00.000-08:00

Don't you just love Christmas? I just told my friend Scoot that this evening! I LOVE Christmas! It's the "most wonderful time of the year". I am a little disappointed though that he didnt' get me anything for Christmas. Maybe next year Scoot! ;) I did however just about finish up my Christmas shopping. If I get a couple more dollars in before Christmas, I could stand to get ONE more present for Dad. He's one shorter than everyone else. I don't want him to feel left out!

Not much to Blog on today. I did take my car up to get a Radiator Flush. It turns out that someone (don't know who) mistakenly put oil in my radiator! If I ever find out who did it...they will pay me back the $200 it's costing me to fix it! It's a bummer that all of this is happening right around Christmas. Dad's work car went out on him about two days before my car went crazy. We are going to have to sell it and just have two cars for the 5 of us for awhile. We've done it before, I suppose we can do it again. The last two days we've been down to 1 car for 5 peeps. It's been rough! Hopefully tomorrow morning my car will run fine and the machanic will allow me to pay for his labor and take my baby home! LOL

Magnum is doing wonderful! (for those of you who are wondering) He is growing like a weed! I remember when he would fit in the cradle of your arm while you held him. Not anymore. He's almost as big as Higgins. He's still go those clumpy huge feet. His hair is getting curly and his fur is so soft! He's my shadow, though. He follows me everywhere I go. Seriously, if I'm at my desk, he's under it laying down. If I get up to go get a drink, he gets up from his sleep and goes with me. It's quite comical, but annoying at times. He is still at that age where he's RIGHT under your feet! I think I've mastered the art of catching myself before I've fallen. LOL

If I get a chance during Christmas, I'll get some pics of Magnum (or Maggy as I call him) and Higgy for you! Right now...I'm debating on playing a game of Sims 2 or going to bed. The bed seems to be winning right now! LOL

LATER!

Car Trouble Equals Blessing

2004-12-11T17:25:00.000-08:00

Ok, from my title you are probably wondering what in the world I'm talking about. Let me explain the last few days to you. The last week or so I have been extremely stressed over where my next bill payment would be coming from. You see I'm a little over 2 years away from being totally debt free. For me to miss any payments could ruin this for me. I've been working the last 3 or so years at clearing my debt so that I can put my money where it's needed most. Not that I'm in huge debt...I finally paid off my car in April (which in itself is a HUGE step). Anyway, I was worried that I wouldn't be able to pay this bill; not doubtful that God could do it, but you know how we get. I was more worried that He'd forget! LOL Seemed everyone in the family was going through a rough financial spot. We were all scrounging our pennies to get food for the day, let alone the week. I'm sure some of you know what that's like. And with Christmas coming, I wanted to cry. I just didn't have the money tospend on presents like I really wanted to. It was really starting to depress me.

It just so happens that the other day I recieved a great blessing. Some would say it was just coincidence, but I know better. I was so shocked over this "blessing" I started crying and mumbling in the midst of tears told my family how worried I was. My mom looked at me and said, "AMY! You know God always provides! What does your song say?? What song did you write?" We just had a little church meeting right then and there! I felt so blessed that a God so BIG would look down on little ole me and send the unexpected to help me pay one little bill. Isn't He and AWESOME GOD! I cry now just thinking about it.

I felt such relief! No more worries. Some would think that it would all start over again after the following day. You see, the very next day, Chris was driving my car to work and noticed it acting funny. The day after that, Dad took it to work with him to see what seemed to be the problem. (you know daddies always have the answers!) It overheated on him. He had to stop a couple times on his way home. I wasn't worried. I just had a lesson from the Most Gracious God! I had no need to. We took it to a friend who thought it was the thermostat. Seems there was a bunch of gunk in the radiator tubing (no clue of cars so excuse me if it's all wrong). He cleaned out as much as he could but said a radiator flush would probably solve the problem. Took it to another guy today, but he can't do it cause it will ruin his equipment. So, Monday I have to take it to another guy! LOL But I'm not worried. God provides. He always has and always will.

Rebecca (the co-writer of Even in the Valley) and I discuss often the blessings we see through our song. Susan Whisnant is so very kind to share with us when we see or talk to her the blessings she sees through the song. But mostly, Rebecca and I discuss how this song was written for more for us than anyone else! We are so thankful that God is using it to touch lives and encourage hearts (ours included).

So see, God knew what I needed. He also knows the car trouble I'm having. But it's all a blessing! He's still God and He's still good!! Whatever my need I know He'll supply. I know that my car trouble equals a blessing from God. I'm just waiting now!

I'm out!! Watch out for those blessings!

Just another day...

2004-12-04T01:17:00.000-08:00

You know what I hate? I hate it when you write a whole bunch of stuff and then hit the back button on your browser before hitting Submit! UGH...I had a whole bunch written and totally lost it. This upsets me. Let me think of what I said and try to rewrite it as best I can.

WORK! I've been sooo busy since I've quit Goody's. Southern Spin is keeping me busy (no complaints there). Of course, Mom and Dad are on to me about making sure I know how to run SoGospelNews.com in case of an emergency. Do you know how much there is to learn about what they do?? Then, I have been working with Dad the last 2 days. I hurt all over. I've forgotten how much I hate painting, not to mention how out of shape I am. I feel old!

There seems to be a lot of discussion in the SG Blogs and Message Boards regarding Nick Bruno's Article on SoGospelNews.com. Some peeps just aren't happy unless they are complaining. First they want honesty, then when they get it, they don't like it cause it's not the "honesty" they liked or agreed with. Peeps are funny!! Go read it and make your own opinion of it. I think it's good stuff, but hey, what do I know? ;)

Christmas is almost here. I have a little bit of shopping done. I hope to make a little more money to finish off my Christmas shopping. If not, the fam will have to live with what I got em! ;) I'd tell you what I got everyone, but most of my fam reads this! LOL I can list a few of my wants this year in hopes that Santa will provide...if you don't mind; bear with me please!

Dear Santa,

I hope all is well with you and Mrs. Clause. I have been good this year, except for the few fights I've gotten into with my bros. I just can't help it that they are meanies. God made them that way and you shouldn't fault me (or them) for that!

If it's not too much trouble I would like only a few things this year. I don't want any bike, games, or toys (though a new car would be awesome!) I would LOVE to have a gift certificate to Bath and Body Works (I just feel like being all girly this year). Maybe if you could squeeze in a DVD of "Bridget Jones Diary" ( that is a comical movie). There are a few other DVD's I'm wanting, but that one is on the top of the list. I definitely want my business to thrive this coming year. I would love to be able to work full time on it, without the use of another job. Then of course there are the normal requests; to wake up Christmas Day 20 pounds lighter, be stunningly gorgeous, and about 5 years younger. LOL I know those are near impossible though.

If you could just bring blessings of finance and health to my family for the years to come though, I would be forever grateful and may never ask of anything else. You and Jesus work that one out if you can! ;) I promise to leave you milk and cookies!

Love,
Amy Marie

Ok, I'm out! It's WAY past my bedtime, and I believe I have to go paint again tomorrow! Ugh! Pray for my body! LOL

Thanksgiving...Blogs...Christmas

2004-11-29T01:07:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful Thanksgiving we had. I hope that you all got your fill on Turkey and dressing. We ate on our Turkey all weekend long; first eating leftovers, then making a pot pie out of the left overs, and finally Dad made some soup with the last little bit. I have some pics of the nice little spread of food I prepared, but I couldn't get them off the camera for some strange reason. I'll work on getting them up this week; you must see the results of my cooking skills! ;) I've also got a few more pics of Magnum (or Maggot as Dad still likes to call him).

Seems the blog world of SG has been quite slow around here lately. Maybe it's the holidays...maybe the newness is just wearing off. I'll admit I don't have time to write everyday, and I feel guilty if I don't write at least a couple times a week. Several of you have actually admitted to me that you read my blog. It makes me feel a little special! Anyway, a few bloggers really need to update.

Biblio's Blog is one I really enjoyed reading but has yet to post anything since the 30th of October (almost a month ago).
SGM Blog's last couple posts were actually not even worth reading. Come on, what happened? Where are your thoughts on SG...or is it really just a joke to you?
David Bruce Murray's I enjoy reading. His blog is very well thought out and he isn't afraid to put his name on his own thoughts. Gotta respect that! 'Cept we're going to have to have a talk about this Andy Griffith stuff, David!
Chris has finally updated his blog. It's worth reading. Sometimes he suprises me and proves that he may not really be emotionally dead as some suppose! LOL Although I wish he'd learn to write like an adult. ROFLOL ;)
There's also Miss Elaineous, who gives off the impression that she is just a momma who loves SG. I don't see much industry influence in her. Mostly fan opinion, but good anyhow. She seems more ministry minded than industry minded.
Chuck Peters doesn't have a bad blog. He makes some good points on radio, but his stand on a couple issues really make me wonder. He tends to want to make all things private, public. I get the feeling that he might be one of those fans that believe it's their "right" to know everything. I was quite disappointed when I read on Mr. Anonymous' blog the disagreement between Peters and Daywind. Why Mr. Anonymous even had to get involved, I'm still wondering. Just doesn't leave me much respect for either. No one really wants to read about a bone you have to pick with a record label over a silly comp disc. I have a solution, just don't play their stuff if you don't get their comp disc. And as Peters has already discovered, if you want to play it bad enough, you'll find a way to get the music.
My friend Shay started her own blog. Although it's not about SG. She's an awesome girl and I invited you to check out her blog. BTW, Shay, I'm a "6 - the Loyalist" too! Ya'll take this test!

Today was a good day. Pastor Johnny preached a great message. I came home and ate lunch with Chris and a few of the twenties and thirties. Chris' treat! ;) Afterwards was choir practice for the Christmas program! (Have I mentioned I love this time of year?) We left church early to go visit our dear friends the Quicks. Tim's father went on to be with the Lord this weekend. We are praying for you and your family! I so enjoyed singing for your momma! What a sweet and wonderful family you have.

The Christmas season is just around the corner now. Having quit Goody's, I can only pray that I can find the funds to purchase gifts for everyone I want to get gifts for. I know it was the right thing to do at the right time, but sometimes the Lord really makes me anxious. LOL Christmas is the time of year when I keep my TV on the Hallmark Channel and TCM (Turner Classic Movies). I get my best movie crying done this time of year! :) It's such a romantic holiday. Even if I am single, I love the atmosphere Christmas brings. Peace on earth, Good will to men! Peeps just seem friendlier, more willing to help! They seem to love more this time of year. I love it!!

It's early in the AM...I must go! Have a wonderful week at work. Hopefully I'll get to write more this week!

OUT!

Thanksgiving and long car drives

2004-11-19T20:45:00.000-08:00

We left yesterday afternoon for my Aunt and Uncle's house. Our plan was to see my Grandfather as he seems to be getting worse healthwise, and visit with two aunts, an uncle, and some cousins. We were scheduled to leave at 1:00 pm, as soon as Chris got off work. However, as we always do, we ran late and didn't leave until 2:30 in the afternoon. We had to travel a good 9 1/2 hours (according to mapquest.com) and as it always does, it took longer than expected to get there. Yep, it took us 11 hours. we got to North Carolina at 1:30 am (2:30 their time). I felt bad cause we woke up my aunt and uncle when we got there. They have been amazing hosts though. My aunt has had everything labeled so we can find stuff around the house. For instance in the bathroom, she has a paper placed on the cabinet for towels. In the kitchen she had about 5 different teas and regular and decaf coffee available for us when we woke. All I can say is we are blessed!! ;)

Today we had Thanksgiving Dinner (early). My other Aunt and her daughter and grand-daughter must leave tomorrow. London Elise (the grandbaby) is so precious and cute as a button. I'm attaching some pictures at the bottom of my blog so that you all can see a bit into my family. This Thanksgiving dinner was just like it used to be. LOL The adults sat at one table while the kiddos sat at another. Seems I'm never grown up enough to sit at the adult table. The talk around the kiddo table was more reminiscing. We talked about how our Uncle would take us on hikes and our Aunt would worry to death! LOL We talked about the last time we saw each other. It was fun, but made me feel old. Haha We did however miss our Uncle Gene and of course all the other kiddos that couldn't make it!! But, all I can say is we are blessed!!

Weird things have been happening to me lately. The other day I was in Wally World and this lady and her daughter were passing me in the aisle. I was busy studying the product on the shelves and didn't notice that the lady had turned back toward me. She tapped me on the shoulder and said, "I just want you to know that Jesus Loves You!! You have a MERRY Christmas!" I was in awe really. I didn't know what to say. All I could think of was "thank you" and before I could say anything else she was gone. Then on our trip up here to North Carolina, we stopped at a gas station for something to wet our whistles. The guy behind the counter asked if the gentleman was my father, I said "yes". He said that we looked alike (go figure, I think I'm prettier LOL) After Dad walked out he said, "are you married or engaged?" (you can guess where I thought this conversation was going) I said that I wasn't. He continued, "do you have someone special in your life?" I said that I didn't. He went on, "well you are a very pretty young lady and I'm going to pray that God will send you someone very special into your life, because that's important." I was again in awe! I somehow muttered the words "thank you, God bless you!", but it hardly seemed enough. God works in such odd ways sometimes. It's funny how sometimes all we need is confirmation that God is still there and that He never leaves us. Why we forget I don't know. I just thought I'd share my experience with you. Maybe you need to know that GOD LOVES YOU! Maybe you need to know that someone is praying for your need. I pray a special blessing on all who read this. May your lives be filled with JOY UNSPEAKABLE! All I can say is YOU ARE BLESSED!

from left to right: 1. waiting to pray so we can dig in; 2. my Aunt Brenda and Uncle Harold - the awesome Hosts!

from left to right: 1. Grandma, Aunt Cheryl holding London, Erin (cousin), Mom, and Me; 2. Aunt Cheryl holding London, Mom, and part of Grandma

from left to right: 1. Uncle Harold playing with London; 2. Dad with his parents and siblings (Grandma & Grandpa, Aunt Brenda, & Aunt Cheryl)

All I can say is I'M blessed!!

The World of Fashion

2004-11-15T20:40:00.000-08:00

I told you I wouldn't be one to remember to write every day. My life is just not that exciting. Haha At least I'm not as far behind as Mr. Biblio! It's a shame too cause I sorta enjoyed his postings - they tended to be far less wordy than other anonymous ones.

My weekend has been busy, but mostly it's been icky. I've had this sinus/allergy thing kickin me in the tail. I finally went to the doctor yesterday (hard to believe the doc was open on Sunday, but I'm thankful). Two shots and two prescriptions. I guess you could say I'm a little doped up right now. LOL However since we are to be singing in North Carolina this weekend, I decided it was best for me to get better quickly. I feel about 85% better, though I'm quite tired from the meds. I about passed out at the doc office. I think when they gave me the shot it started to clear my head a bit and it messed with my equilibrium. I had to sit and wait for my head to come back into focus. LOL It was scary. But I made it home safely and I am feeling better than before. Just pray for an even more speedy recovery as I have to be in full voice by the weekend.

No word on a new job yet. I have my app out to around 15 different companies. I know God has everything in control though. He's a good God and He knows every step I make. I'm sure the right one will come along just when I need it.

Only two responses to my "Soul Mates" blog. Tis ok, I already knew I didn't have that many friends! haha I still don't know...I guess I'll know when the time comes for me to know. (I told you I'm on prescription drugs, you'll have to excuse me if I make no sense).

I've been keeping up with a few blogs, of course, and this is what I've found out. It's agreed that Southern Gospel could use a few fashion points. However, absolutely NO casual button up shirts with shirt tails hanging out, NO piercings of any kind, and NO colored hair. Most of these comments have come from Chris' Gospel Musings topic on Fashion. You can read that one here.
A poster on one of the message boards I read said to keep your shirt tails tucked in, comb your hair, and keep it one color. And we're all the time hearing about how we don't need any wild freaks with piercings and mohawked brightly colored hair. Come on peeps, when's the last time you've seen anyone who looked like that. And if you did, it was a rare sight in deed, as you and everyone else around you were probably staring the poor fellow down. As Chris suggested a few groups who have the good fashion sense, let me add to the list:

Chris said:
The Imperials, Crabb Family, The Martins, LordSong, Mercy's Well, Signature Sound Quartet, and Chosen Few.

Amy Marie's list is the same as above, but also:
Paid In Full, Mike Bowling, The Bowlings, Karen Peck & New River, Jeff and Sheri Easter, The Isaacs, Mercy's Mark Quartet, Hope's Call, and I could go on.

While there are plenty of groups who have caught on to the fashion world and I believe they are appealing to peeps of ALL ages, there are LOADS more who need a little help!! And just so some don't get offended, there are a few groups that are mentioned here that usually wear some sorta suit and tie the majority of their performances. ;)

That's all I have to say tonight. My meds are kickin in and the puppy (or maggot as Dad likes to call him) is ready for bed!!

OUT!

soul mates and giving credit where it's due

2004-11-11T09:39:00.000-08:00

It's been an interesting last couple of days. I have put my application out to about 10-15 stores. One of them has to be interested, I'm praying! I do have an interview with Sears tomorrow around 2:00pm, so keep praying!

I've also found that apparently credit is due to me. LOL Mr. Gospel Commentary stated, "Amy Marie Unthank is certainly due credit. Along with being the most personable and most objective of the Unthanks, Amy is an awesome singer and songwriter." He said some other stuff too. Poor poor guy! He (and I believe it is a he) just doesnt know me yet! LOL Truthfully, I think the most personable would be Dad. If you've ever met any of the Unthank Empire (that still gets me...haha) you'll know that when it comes to being personable, Deon (dad) wins that award. Aaron is pretty close, but Dad is the most personable. I'm actually quite shy until you get to know me (or I'm online) and I hate crowds of peeps. They make me nervous. Dad will go up and talk to anyone. He's crazy that way. As to most objective, I would have to give that hat to Scott. He really is open minded to a lot of things. Usually knows both sides of a debate well enough to argue each of them if necessary. I can be pretty stubborn! LOL

I was reading today in an email about Soul Mates. It reminded me of a converstation Chris and I had in the car a few days ago. I am not sure how we got on the subject. He stated, though, that he did not believe in one soul mates per person. If there were such a thing, then anyone who had divorced or lost a mate, would never find another love. He did say that he believes that there are several peeps for each of us, and we always have another choice. This was a few days ago, so I'm paraphrasing here. Here's my take...as a young girl, I've always dreamed that there was a "prince charming" for me. Maybe it's all the Cinderella/Snow White stories you hear as a child. I have always thought there was ONE person solely for me. But Chris got me to thinking. As I get older, there are times when I wonder if I might have missed this "one soul mate". Maybe Chris is right. Maybe there is more than one and I must choose. Then this brings more questions, like "who are my choices", "have I passed one by that would've been a choice", "when are my choices going to come"? LOL See how us girls think? I really don't know what I think on Soul Mates now. I'm curious what you think on this subject...so leave your comment!

Much luck to my friend "Parker" who is taking a stab at something different and finally experiencing a small part of the world of SG.

I'm OUT!

Ripley's, SG, and Jobs

2004-11-07T14:50:00.000-08:00

It's been a crazy weekend. But fun! Chris, Scott and I went up to Gatlinburg with the twenties and thirties group. It was so much fun. The group got a lodge; 8 bedrooms, 4 baths, a game room and a 62 inch TV. It was so fun. We all became kids again. The boys had to play with their X-Box or whatever it was, while the girls played foosball, air hockey, and pool. Some who weren't into those games put a puzzle together. This was probably the most competitive thing we did. LOL Apparently everyone wants to be the one that puts the last piece in. Only thing...we lost one piece, so the puzzle was never really finished.

We were up till 3:00 am Thursday night. Right as everyone was heading to their rooms for the night, the boys decided to play a trick on the girls. They hit the main breaker for the house and the lights were out! It was the funniest thing to see all the frantic peeps in the hallway with their cell phones lighting the hallway for light. One guy stated that he called the emergency number for the lodge and they told him that there were 3 escaped convicts spotted in the area and that they turned out our power and said we were to lock all our doors. This made some freak out...although I was a little leary, seeing how the neighbors lights were still on and I was pretty sure there was no prison anywhere near by. Then Scott mentioned something about a bear, and we heard a scream from upstairs and a door slam. (Remember this is all in the dark). Two peeps come running down the stairs screaming that they saw someone outside. Finally we girls figured it out...as the lights came back on and someone was missing. Two of us found the main breaker that the boys had control of and guarded it for the rest of the night.

We then went to "Ripley's Believe it or Not" the following afternoon. We were all so tired! LOL It was fun, except for the odd pictures of weird peeps that do totally gross stuff. If you've never been to a Ripley's Museum, you must go. You will learn a lot about cultures of other countries as well as some history. It is all STRANGE stuff though! LOL

It was about a four hour trip home, so we did get to introduce some NON-SG folk to some good SG music. Most liked it. A few didn't like all of it, but that is to be expected! How cool though that we had the opporunity to spread the SG gospel! LOL

I've been keeping up with the New SG blogfest! LOL It is really quite comical at times. Some make really interesting points while others tend to just ramble on. (Although, I probably have on room to talk on that subject) It's cool to see the responses some get when they post them. Some who agree and some who don't. My only problem with some of this blogging and comments is the assumption peeps make. It's so comical to me that folk can assume to know our (meaning me and my family) thoughts and reasonings for our actions. Very few peeps who read or post on SGN have ever met us, let alone KNOW us personally. It really is too funny to even worry about. However, I wish at times those peeps who have such negative opinions of us would actually know who they are talking about. What they know is only what they see on the message boards; and I would go so far as to say that 9 times out of 10, those that speak negative are irritated that we wouldn't allow their rumor, gossip, or innuendos on our site! Just my opinion, maybe I'm wrong (definitely wouldn't be the first time).

Anyway, on to my life. I'm currently looking for another part time job. I am giving up on Goody's. As much as I like the clothing and merchandise there, my manager seems to be giving me few and fewer hours. Around Christmas time that is tough. I have lots of peeps expecting lots of presents this year! ;) I am waiting for Southern Spin to go full time for Chris and I, but right now we're still too small for that. So, please say a prayer that I can find a job that will work with my schedule! LOL We are growing. There's so much that is in the works right now. We have several more potential clients in the wings, waiting to come onto the scene. I can't wait to introduce them to you. Speaking of Southern Spin, check out the updated site for Master's Voice!

Ok, I'm out of here, church is calling me!

Over and OUT!

Vote today...

2004-11-02T06:54:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I was up at 6:00 this morning to head out to vote. Chris and I went together so we'd have someone to talk to while standing in line. I surely didn't think there would be a great big line though. When we got there, we had to park a mile away (literally). This was about 5 minutes before polls even opened. We stood in line for a little over an hour. There were a couple hundred peeps there in line. You will find very humorous situation while standing in line to vote. The lady behind us was cracking up at Chris (he really is funny...hang out with him sometime). All three of us were making jokes and such. The guy behind us was talking EXTREMELY loud 'bout who he was going to be voting for. I said, "isn't it just a known fact that you don't talk about who you're going to vote for while standing in line to vote?" LOL Then we heard some lady talking loud on her cell phone. She was telling the person on the other end that there were about 500-600 peeps there waiting to vote. We cracked up...not quite that many people, just a little exageration. Guess it makes it better for the other person when they come to vote. It'll be a few hundred peep less then what they expected.

It was quite an experience though. It was a very short experience...but interesting. This was my first time to vote and I must say it was quite satisfying. Chris and I were talking about it on the way home. He said, "Not that I need to or anything right now, but now I have the right to complain all I want about how the government is run" LOL True dat, Chris! Thank God for that right!

All the SG bloggers are coming out of their holes as of late. There seems to be quite a few. Some I believe will eventually fade away. Nothing against those bloggers, I just have a feeling they are quite like me. I wonder how long I'll keep mine going! LOL Getting into the habit of writing three or four times a day is not going to happen for me. Two reasons: One, I don't have the time (I own a business and work part time at another job) and two, I don't have much to talk about except my new puppy as of late and folks don't wanna hear that! LOL

I'm still confused as to why I'm listed in the SG Blogger category. True I am involved in SG music, but "Days in the Life of Amy Marie" is about the days in MY life. My life is not that interesting! LOL BTW, I think the title is just fine...not too long at all. ;)

I'm on my way to a meeting with a potential client! (This week has been full of them) But before I go I wanted to share a couple more pics of my growing puppy! Here he is...Magnum at 3 months!

Have a wonderful Day and DON'T FORGET TO VOTE!!

Disturbing...

2004-10-30T22:16:00.000-07:00

I read something today on a message board that really disturbed me. I'm paraphrasing here...someone stated that the message board was open for "free speech". They stated that Gospel Music artists needed to realize that they are in the entertainment business (whether they want to believe it or not) and that fans are going to want to know everything. They stated that this particular message board was going to allow the talk of any topic, gossip or not.

Let me explain why I think this is disturbing. Shouldn't we as Christians abstain from such talk? Should we really be encouraging peeps to discuss "gossip" or "rumor" or anything not of the truth? Yes Gospel artists are in the entertainment business, but we still can be in the entertainment business and keep our convictions. Personally I don't think it's too much of them to expect their Christian fans to do the same! I just have a hard time dealing with this kind of idea that it's ok to gossip. It's ok to spread rumors. It's NOT ok...it's just not! Psalm 34:12-14 says the following:
12 Whoever of you loves life
and desires to see many good days,
¹³ keep your tongue from evil
and your lips from speaking lies.
¹⁴ Turn from evil and do good;
seek peace and pursue it.

I certainly didn't mean to go into a preaching hissy, but sometimes Christians really disappoint me! It makes me mad because we're supposed to be a light in a dark world. How can we be any kind of light when we're dipping into the darkness?

Ok, enough is enough...I'll get off my soap box. I have been busy printing off media kits for clients today. Craziness!

I'm not looking forward to the wait in line to vote on Tuesday. But it will be my first time to vote and I'm pretty excited. I'm not going to be one of those who throw my political stand out there, but I believe every Christian should pray about which way to vote. Pray and fast if need be. God has all things in his power, yes, but He's also given us free will...to make our decisions and/or live with the consequences of our actions. Christians need to be making a stand. We need to get this Country back to God! No Christian can deny that!

I must go for now. Don't forget to set your clocks back an hour tonight. Thank the Lord I get an extra hour of sleep tonight! LOL I never can remember which way we go (fall backwards, spring forwards)...I'm glad there's news channels that know this stuff for sure!

I'm out!!