So, I've spent the past three, or has it been four?, Saturdays plus at least part of one or two Sundays working in the yard. Never imagined it would take so much work! It shouldn't be as bad next spring (based on some of the tasks that won't need to be re-done), but I'm definitely going to start earlier next year so that it's not so hot as I finish!

Sure, I used to help in the yard at my parent's house, but I've never had my own yard, gad38, and I didn't have one our first six years of marriage, and we didn't do much in the yard last year b/c we were still settling in.

Wow, it almost feels like I have my weekends back to do whatever w/out having partially finished yardwork hanging over my head. :)

( The List )

So, gad38 and I went to Winter Jam this year.

( And it was awesome! )

I turned on my local radio station this evening expecting to hear music with which to clean the kitchen by, but I forgot that the Sunday evening programming is different than usual. But I left it on to hear what they had to say, and I'm glad I did.

The first half of the program was an interview with Wes Stafford, who has been working with Compassion International for 34 years and is currently the president of the board. He was interviewed about his new book, Just a Minute: In the Heart of a Child, One Moment ... Can Last Forever, about how our words can make or break a life especially in the lives of children. Not only does his book sound interesting, but his testimony is amazing. His parents were missionaries, and he experienced horrible atrocities in a boarding school in West Africa while he was growing up. But, through the grace of God, he was eventually able to forgive those who harmed him, and instead of growing up to be an old bitter man, he became an advocate for children. He shared some stories in his book of times when words affirmed and times when words destroyed (i.e. Adolf Hitler).

Part 1 - Shaping a Child
Part 2 - Affirming the Least of These
Part 3 - Words as Seeds


The second half of the program was an interview with the writing/directing brothers (John and Andy Irwin) and the leading actress (Rachel Hendrix) of a new movie coming out this week, October Baby. Based on what I heard in the interview as well as the trailer, I think it sounds like an amazing movie, and I'm looking forward to seeing it.

Part 1 - A Topic That Captures the Heart
Part 2 - Discovering Healing and Restoration

Among other things, what inspired this movie is the amazing story of abortion survivor Gianna Jessen. In 2008, she spoke at Queen's Hall, Parliament House, Victoria, Australia.

The first several times I heard this song, I didn't really care for it. I mean, I didn't hate it, but I didn't pay attention to it when it came on either.

And then I went through some stuff in the first half of last year, and this song was one of several that helped get me through it.

Whenever I heard it, I held onto:
"When the waves are taking you under
Hold on just a little bit longer
He knows that this is gonna make you stronger, stronger
The pain ain't gonna last forever
And things can only get better"

(Lyrics from LyricsMania)

Except for the part about the kibble (as we have no dog), this picture is hilarious and TOTALLY TRUE!!!


see more Lolcats and funny pictures, and check out our Socially Awkward Penguin lolz!

This is what happens when your crape myrtle sticks one of its branches in a light socket.




Ridiculous; such a mess! Needs some serious trimming.
:)

I'd highly recommend staying at the Chattanooga Choo-Choo in Chattanooga, TN!

It used to be an actual train station from the early 1900s until 1970. Now it's a historic location that's been converted into a hotel with shopping, dining, touristy, and meeting room amenities. The complex is HUGE!

I was really looking forward to visiting because gad38 and I would be staying in a train car instead of a regular hotel room. Unfortunately, our plans gave us less than 24 hours to enjoy the Choo-Choo. I definitely want to go back and stay longer some day!

Visited: September 2008

( Photos )

I'd highly recommend visiting the Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville. And you don't have to be a hotel guest to enjoy it!

The resort includes four large courtyard-like areas of gardens, shopping, and dining options. The Delta, Garden Conservatory, and Cascades areas are indoor, and the Magnolia area is outdoor. The gardens are amazing. They are comprised of different kinds of plants, flowers, water features (including several waterfalls), and even some fish. Just follow the pathways. You can also see the Delta section via riverboat. And if you're in the mood for dining or shopping, you won't be disappointed.

If you decide to stay at a hotel, I imagine that the rooms facing the courtyards are the best - especially those with balconies. You'll have a great view and ample opportunities to people watch!

Day Visitor's Suggestion: Parking at the Gaylord Opryland Resort is $16 per day. If you don't want to pay that, drive over to the Opry Mills Mall and park for free on the edge of the parking lot closest to the Resort. It's a short walk to the back of the Resort and access to the courtyards.

( Photos )