Keepin' up with the Joneses

Another Year Older

2011-12-02T09:12:00.001-05:00

I turned 30 again this week! Spent the day helping others and going to the doctor. If my memory is correct, I believe I went to the doctor last year on my birthday. Happy Birthday to ME! If getting sick is going to be my present each year, I don't want it!I was tested for strep, but it was negative. Somehow it always it. I'm not so sure those swabs are accurate. While it seems I battle constant sickness and allergies, I really don't have the right to complain as I watch people around me who are very sick. Sickness that antibiotics and zyrtec can't fix.My Father-in-law, Jim is battling cancer. He was diagnosed September 1, 2010 and for the most part the past year has been pretty normal. Jim's health had remained steady and side effects from his chemo had been minimal. Until a few weeks ago when they discovered that the chemo wasn't working as it should. The doctor put him on a new chemo that caused him horrible mouth soars that had to die down before he could start taking the pill everyday. Once that happened, he's been doing ok on the medicine.His health is changing though. That can't be denied. He is now showing physical signs of pain and has a persistent cough. All due to the cancer. Because of these things, the doctor had him go through another round of scans yesterday to access where he's at with tumor growth etc. Jim will get those results on Monday, December 5th. We continue to pray for Jim and healing here on earth but the cool thing is, no matter what...He's ok with whatever happens. Jim knows his reward is great in Heaven. What a glorious thought!!All 5 grandchildren are helping Jim and Eleanor have an early celebration for their 40th wedding anniversary tonight. The kids will present them with a candle lit dinner, serving and waiting on them. The kids are excited! I can't wait to get pictures of this event! I know Gracie is very excited to play 'waitress'! This will be precious memories for all of us!We're not sure what the future holds with our family but we're certain it's in God's hands. We're also certain that we, as a family, will treasure our moments together. Thanksgiving was a good time together and Christmas will be a great time together! All the times in between and after will be special as well!

'I think it's cute'

2011-10-24T19:31:00.000-04:00

When talking to my neighbor today, who is an older man, apparently I said the word 'crap'. Later in our conversation he brought it to my attention and said, 'it's funny that you said the word 'crap'. I like that about you. I like that you're spunky and say what's on your mind. I actually think [the word crap] it's cute'. What a compliment!More than once in my life I've been told I'm spunky, honest (even too honest), mouthy, blunt and even rude.God made me a unique individual as he did you. There's no doubt that I was created to be spunky and sometimes loud or mouthy. But there is a time that I have to be careful to control my tongue. Just because I'm wired to be rude or blunt doesn't give me the excuse to play those cards anytime I feel like it.It's hard! Taming the tongue is one of the hardest things for me to do. When I get angry, you'll probably know it. If I'm stressed, it will come right off my tongue. I'm very aware of this. It's on my mind a lot. I'll admit, sometimes I forget and so spout off. But, for the most part, I really am trying to say less and listen more. I know sometimes it doesn't seem like it.I've also been told I don't act like 'a normal preacher's wife'. I take that as a compliment as well! But, on the bad side, when my tongue has gotten out of control, I've been reminded that I wasn't 'acting like a preacher's wife'. Although I do want to set an example, please never put me on a pedestal. Please never elevate me (or anyone else) above yourself or anyone else. As soon as I mess up, you're going to be disappointed and say 'that's not the way a preacher's wife should act'. How do I know this? Because it's happened...more than once. I'm human too. I serve the same Jesus that you do. I'm covered by grace just like you are. I just happened to have a husband who, as a family, we've been called to ministry. So, while I may say what I'm thinking I never intend to be rude or mean hearted. Sometimes we say things with good intentions, but they come out with the wrong tone. I do this one WAY too often. I can be joking and saying something funny and someone be offended. I stop and ask, "WHAT?" Well, my tone was ugly and my joke sounded serious or mean hearted. I'm trying to be very aware of this. The bible warns us that 'For out of the fullness (the overflow, the superabundance) of the heart the mouth speaks.' As hard as it is to admit, when I have a bad attitude and ugly words are flowing, that means my heart is ugly and bad too.I will probably never walk on egg shells for people, but I will try to meet them where they are at and respect them. I will never change who I am completely. because as a child of God, I'm just this way. But know that I am aware and that I realize that it is a personal struggle for me. James 3:8 'But the human tongue can be tamed by no man. It is a restless (undisciplined, irreconcilable) evil, full of deadly poison'. So, let me warn you now.....there will come a time that I will make you mad with my words. I will probably hurt you or offend you. Hopefully never on purpose, but I am a messy, messed up person who serves a perfect Saviour.And that's all I have to say about that!

OH CRAP!!!

2011-10-15T09:05:00.000-04:00

I was in my REM sleep. Dead to the world when I heard Winston meowing from the other room. It took a few meows for me to realize 'HE NEEDS TO GO OUT TO USE THE BATHROOM"! Winston is technically an outside cat, meaning he stays in at all times, but uses the bathroom outside. He doesn't have a liter box in the house.When I opened my eyes I immediately noticed the sun light coming into my window. My inner-head reaction was OH CRAP!!! I knew if the sun was out, it was past 7:15, which is wake up time for school. I was frustrated because my alarm didn't go off. 'Why didn't my alarm go off?' I asked myself. 'What day is it that my alarm WOULDN'T go off?" These thoughts and questions all happened within a matter of seconds. I grabbed my phone, checked the time, 8:01 AM. My inner voice became my audible voice and I yelled 'OH CRAP! Now we're late for school and the cat needs to use the bathroom.I blinked my eyes, collected my thoughts, looked at the day and date on my phone......SATURDAY!!!! AHHHHH, (this is where I'd normally go back to sleep for hours) BUT, remember, the cat needs out.Because we now have a huge, 90 pound, 3 year old lab, Winston can no longer go in the backyard. We are gradually letting him in the front yard trying to get him used to staying around the house, not going into the neighbor's yards or the road. He was used to having free roaming in the backyard because of our privacy fence. As you can sense, I'm a little protective of my four legged, long-haried baby. I 'walked' the cat (this is where if I had a cat leash, I'd be using it), got him back in, ran the dish washer, swept the floors, make a cup of coffee, and got back into bed to enjoy this warm cup of goodness!! Happy Saturday!!

We made it!

2011-10-14T13:37:00.002-04:00

CITYChurch has now had 2 public worship experiences. Our first week, Oct 2, 2011 went really well. There were only a couple very minor things that went wrong. Honestly, I didn't know if we'd be able to pull set up off, much less a service. God was so good to us, so faithful.We were able to go in on Friday night for an hour to set up as much as we could, and an hour early on Sunday morning. This saved our butts.The second week came, again we were able to come in for an hour in advance. We got almost the whole kids area and connection table/cafe area completely done in that hour.It left us with finishing up the worship area and some odds and ends here and there.So, those week stressed me out. I thought they were going to be difficult. Turns out, they were pretty much a breeze.It's THIS Sunday that I have reason to worry over. We don't get to come in Friday and we don't get to come in early Sunday morning. We get there at 8:30 and must have everything ready for full service by 10:30. We have 1 1/2 hours to get everything done, so we can chill for a bit before all things start!I'm nervous, I'm not gonna lie. But, if I stop and worry over it, all it does is make me scared and in a bad mood. This is allowing Satan to have a victory.I had to go to the doctor today because I started feeling yucky Wednesday night. I'm now on antibiotich and hoping to be strong Sunday. We already have people out of town so I can't afford to be sick. My body and voice need to be strong. Praying God has me completely healed and ready to go Sunday morning!We've been so blessed these past 2 weeks. We have a handful of people who are in....sold out.....on mission! We desperately rely on our team. We'd be gonzo without them!I thank God for the people he's put into our path. We're praying for more people to step up and help us set up/tear down and be a part of our CITYGroups. It's all a process that we can contribute to but ultimately have no control over.Come see us soon!

Overwhelmed

2011-08-10T14:31:00.002-04:00

It is literally overwhelming what all God is putting in our path right now.
Overwhelming can be a good and bad thing. Right now, it's both. We are overwhelmed with blessing as well as overwhelmed with 'curse'.

We are in the midst of starting something new in our city and meanwhile Satan is fighting it. He is tugging at Chris, he is grabbing at me, he is pushing my kids around. I DO NOT LIKE IT!
We are safe in Christ's arms through it all, and I know we'll continue to bring Glory to God in all things. But man, it's tough. I don't think I realized the boxing match I'd be putting myself and my family into when we checked the 'yes' box for church planting.

Please don't hear this as complaining, it's not. But it is our life right now. We are asking God specific questions like, what are we supposed to do with this person, or this situation? How are we supposed to jump this hurdle? Why me? How can I be used in this situation that's for YOUR Glory?
Please be in constant prayer for the Jones family and for CITYChurch.
This IS tough stuff!

So much things to say

2011-07-25T19:28:00.002-04:00

Today I've sat down to write something several times and had nothing to say. I'm actually feeling that way right now. I have so many thoughts in my head. I have such a heavy heart and yet can't seem to get it out. It's not that I don't want to write, I'm simply speechless. This NEVER happens.
Maybe as I try to explain, my words will come.
Honestly, I believe my lack of communication right now is because I'm stunned. Simply stunned at what Satan can do in people's lives. Don't get me wrong, I've been equally stunned, shocked, excited about what God has done too. But the past few days it's just one blow after another in friends' lives.

I had the pleasure of 'reconnecting' with a friend after not talking for almost a year. Things happened that caused a separation between us, not by my choice. None the less, the choice was made and now God is bringing her back into my life. Do you want to know why she's coming back around? Satan. Satan got into her home and into her husband. I say this, knowing she would completely agree. Her husband allowed Satan to feed him lies and he ate everyone of them up. He has now left and is pursuing 'other options'. She now needs people whom she can reach out to who will love her as she's broken and healing. What allowed what once seemed to be a Godly man to become so distracted? So full of lust? So proud? So hard? So selfish? So deceived? So disconnected?

I also have two friends right now of very different lifestyles, ages, backgrounds, genders, and passions who are finding themselves bearing the responsibility of bringing a baby into their lives. Single parents now faced with life changing decisions. There's no 'redo' or 'take back' on that one. There's no 'oops'! This is a baby they must now deal with, love, raise, shelter, protect, and show how to love God. Can it be done? Absolutely!! Is it the end of the world? NO! But I have to question again, Godly people making poor decisions. How did they become so distracted? So selfish? So full of lust? So hard? So proud? So deceived? So disconnected?
Satan is such a master of disguises and it angers me to pieces how he sneaks in on people. How he creeps into small crevices like a cavity then before you know it, there's decay. Thankfully our souls and lives, like a tooth, can be restored.

I'm watching with my own eyes one friend as she is being restored in Christ as she carries her growing baby in her belly. I'm listening to another friend as she's being restored as she's filing divorce papers. Both of these woman are seeking God's will and are closer to him now than ever. They've seen destruction in their lives and have had to come to an understanding of it and are ready to put their lives into God's hands and simply say 'you're in control'. My girl friend told me that her husband leaving her and their 2 small children was huge, but God is SO much bigger!

Please pray for these three friends of mine. Pray that a cheating husband will find his way back to God, the lover of his soul. Pray for the two 'soon to be single parents' that they will raise their children in the truth of Jesus, the lover of their souls!

Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

John 8
“If God were your Father, you would love me, for I have come here from God. I have not come on my own; God sent me. 43 Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. 44 You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. 45 Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me! 46 Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don’t you believe me? 47 Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.”

Movin' right along

2011-06-30T21:40:00.002-04:00

When I was a child I liked to watch The Muppet movies. One was called Muppets Take Manhattan. Did you see that one? I remember a song, not sure if it was even in this movie, but the words were:
movin' right along
bump-a-dum bump-a-dum
foot loose and fancy free....

I'm clicking with the movin' right along part. I don't know about foot loose and fancy free. But God is doing some AMAZING things in the Jones family lives and in CITYChurch!
We are meeting people and making connections. I have the privilege of discipling four women right now! This is one on one time each week with four different women! I am loving it! I'm getting to know each one better personally and spiritually.

We had our first CITYChurch Girls' Night Out and there were 5 of us ladies there. We went to the new restaurant in town called The Basil Leaf Thai and Sushi! It was great! We then headed to Frogurt to check out frozen yogurt and a million toppings you can put on it! It was fun to be out of the house, away from my kids, and hanging with other adult women!!

We have our first public Q and A time Friday, July 1 at Panera Bread. We're hoping to have a good sized crowd of people to mingle with and share our CITY story.

God has blown our socks off over the past months (and years). He better slow down or we won't have any more clothes on!! What kind of witness is that??!!!

Lovin' what God is doing!!
Jen

I planted the seed....

2011-05-23T15:08:00.003-04:00

Today while planting flowers, veggies, and herbs I couldn't help but think of people.
People, you ask? What do tomato plants and petunias have to do with people? That's a great question!
As my friend Chelsea and I were digging in my small garden area I was commenting on how bad the soil looked. It was somewhat rocky, sandy, and I didn't see one worm. That can't be a good sign. But we planted anyway.
We worked the ground by turning it and flipping it with shovels. With love, we put those plants into the ground, gave them a pep talk, and covered them over. I later went out and gave them some fresh water. I will now watch them grow and produce. My work is not done with these plants though. I can't simply throw them in the ground, water them once, and turn my back and expect good fruit... or veggies.
I have to care for them by pulling weeds and continuing to water them daily as the sun beats down on them.

This is the same thing we must do with people that we are building relationships with. We have to cultivate their hearts and get the soil ready for planting seeds. The parable of the sower comes to mind right about now. Read Mark 4 to refresh your mind on that one.
It is our job as Christians to make relationships with others and to build into them creating disciples. This is a process and sometimes a very draining one. We can't just lead people to Jesus and walk away. We must pull weeds from their lives that are choking them and killing them.
We have to be willing to water and feed them so they can grow. As Scott Haulter says when it comes to sharing Jesus with people:
'there's OUR job, THEIR job, and GOD's job.' I love this!
It's hard for me to not carry the burden of rescuing people who don't want rescued. And leading people who don't want to follow. I must remember that I can only do my part. 1 Corinthians 3:6 I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.
YOU have a part too!! Plant the seed......

it's been awhile

2011-05-20T10:00:00.002-04:00

I have not posted on my blog for a very long time.
I looked at my page and realized how out of date it was, so I just spent on hour trying update pictures, backgrounds, layouts etc.
This still doesn't inspire me to write more often. I just don't feel like it's my gift.
I was telling Chris today that sometimes I feel like that reflects on my spiritual level or depth. I tell myself things like, 'if you were more Godly you would be able to write more beautifully' and 'If you were more Godly you could probably write songs or books'.
I don't like those negative tapes that play in my mind, but I also think there may be SOME truth to that self talk.
So, I'll try to use that as inspiration from here on out instead of just ignoring it. I'm going to allow those tapes that are playing to push me to do more in my walk with Christ. I'll try to become more inspired by being in his word more and improving on my prayer life. There's always room for improvement, isn't there?
We'll see if more writings or songs or books come from it... but don't hold your breath just yet!

Could we be an option?

2010-06-08T20:36:00.002-04:00

Is your VBS or camp group looking for a mission to sponsor? If so, we pray you'll consider Chris and Jen's Journey as a place to give your donations to this year!
You can contact us via our website or email: jenniferljones77@yahoo.com

cards please

2010-05-13T22:41:00.001-04:00

Gracie's birthday is coming up on June 2. As we moved around and she misses her friends, I'm asking that you send her a card this year. I KNOW this will very meaningful to her!

It's been awhile

2010-03-25T18:39:00.002-04:00

I've not been on my blog for awhile. Now that I use facebook this seems to be less important. I used to have to write here for everyone to see and hear what's going on. Now I am able to keep up with everyone daily through FB.

Since being on here last, we have successfully moved into Winston-Salem and purchased a home. We are very excited about it.

Chris is working for Catalyst Church full time but is not paid. We have to raise our own support. This has been tough. When raising support, such as missionaries, you question why people do not give.
We first question ourselves, is it something we said or did? Is it something we DIDN'T say or do? That kind of stuff.
Then we tend to question God. Lord, is this the right move? Now, that one we can answer with bold confidence "YES!!" We are VERY certain that we made the right move to NC and that helping with Catalyst is the right thing to do.
We have had our eyes and ears opened to many things that we would not have seen or heard had we not been right in the middle of it with both hands and feet!

We also can tend to question our faith, asking God if we have enough. Each day he comes through for us, each day he blesses us. Which has taught us to truly live out the passage "give us THIS day our daily bread." Through all of this, God is continually increasing our faith in him and not in this world. Glory to God, becuase HE deserves ALL the praise!

Here we are

2009-09-12T20:51:00.002-04:00

Well, we've made it to North Carolina.
We are currently living with Chris' parents in Advance. A small town outside of Winston-Salem.
We are house hunting, in the market to buy.
We were going to move to Greensboro for the 18 months of our work, and rent.
But after talking with a realtor friend, he suggests since rates are low now is a great time to buy. And we'll get more house for our money. Always a plus!
We have houses lined up to look at and if we're not satisfied with any of those, we'll find more.
There's plenty in the Winston-Salem area!
Happy house hunting!

Wrapping things up in KY

2009-07-06T23:27:00.002-04:00

Chris has deaned his last week of church camp, we had our last lock in last night, we will take a youth trip to the Creation Museum in Cincinnati tomorrow, in a week and a half we'll go on our last trip with CCC to CIY in TN and the week after that we'll have out last VBS ( I hope of our lives).
So many things going on before we pack up out stuff and move it all to Pop and Nor Nor's house the week 3rd week of July.
Once we leave KY on July 31 (my best friend Amy's Birthday) we'll go live with Chris parents and house hunt until we find something perfect for us.
There are things that I "worry" about with this move but none are as great as the wonder of our financial situation. I KNOW without a doubt that God will provide or he would not have put us into THIS situation.
I really look forward to how our finances, housing, church life etc will all unfold.
Lord, I know you have plans for our family and I look forward to you sharing them with us!

Day of firsts

2009-03-17T22:20:00.002-04:00

Today Gracie had her first "sugar bug" removal and Isaiah had his first cleaning!
She did great and so did he. I think Isaiah was more nervous than she was.
Dr. Chip gave Gracie some silly gas to ease her tension and then put some numbing medicine on her lower gums.
A few minutes later he gave her a numbing shot and she didn't even move. She had no idea that he gave her a shot.
Afterwords, he left cheek was so numb and paralyzed. She couldn't smile or talk right for a few hours post "surgery" as she puts it.
Isaiah was tickled to get a goodie bag of toothpaste, toothbrush and his own floss, which he used up as soon as we got home making Spiderman webs!
Thanks Dr. Chip, you're awesome!!!

sugar bugs

2009-03-16T22:47:00.003-04:00

Gracie goes to the dentist tomorrow to get 2 teeth filled due to cavities. Can you believe this?
She's only 5!!
I think I started to get them around age 10 or so. Now I have at least 1 a year.... she's got my soft teeth.
Isaiah will have his first cleaning tomorrow. He's very excited! Something tells me to be prepared to hear the word "cavity" with him too!
She will not be given a shot but will suck in a little laughy gas. I'm very anxious to see how this is going to go. I only hope it doesn't traumatize her and make her scared of the dentist for the rest of her life.

Long Day.... but recovering

2009-01-20T14:42:00.004-05:00

Today was surgery day to remove the mass from behind Isaiah's ear drum in his left ear.
Our surgery was scheduled at 6 AM at UK hospital. With the weather and 1 1/2 hour drive we decided to go to Lexington last night and stay at the closest hotel we could find.
After a handful of hours of sleep we scooted from the hotel over to the dreaded parking garage to catch the shuttle bus that runs to the hospital. Let me tell you, when you've never done this, it's stressful at 5:50 AM in freezing weather with 2 children (and a husband) HA!
Once we got there things went fine.
We sat and talked in the pre-op room as each nurse, attending, doctor and anaesthesiologist came in.
They did a great job taking care of him. When nurse Katie came in to get Isaiah he had the option of riding back to the operating room in a red wagon, but he decided he wanted to walk. We said our "good-byes" and cried and then he took her hand, pushed the metal square button to open the operating doors and walked back with blankie. Oh, my heart broke

Once we were able to see him he was NOT HAPPY!! Between lack of sleep and major drugs he was so combative. We were told he had dressing on his ear and a velcro band around his head to hold it to his ear.
We had no idea he had a pirate ear patch on. He was fighting mad over it too!
For 30 minutes or so, all we heard was "Can you take this off?!!!??!!"
It came in forms or begging, pleading and screaming . Some of his words over this contraption were:
"I hate this thing!!"
"I DON'T like you" (to dad)
"I don't like these nurses!"
"I'm never going to the doctor again!!"
Finally, the morphine and Tylenol + codeine kicked in and he got a little nicer. He was in pain and it was making him so hateful!

Now we're home and he's really doing well. He confirmed with me earlier that "we can take "this thing" of tomorrow, right?" I assured him we would. He has no idea what it's going to feel like to take all the dressing off and have to change the cotton ball and all. He has stitches running down the back of his whole ear and he has packing deep down inside the ear that will be removed at his follow-up visit next week. I don't look forward to that one!

None the less, I'm thankful for the surgery team that took care of our baby today. Praise God this has been fixed and that he's well!!

sick of sickness

2009-01-03T16:50:00.002-05:00

After being in NC and everyone passing around the funk I started the whole nausea thing again yesterday.
I came home from work, put on my jammies and got right into bed. The kids laid with me while I took a really long nap. I was dizzy and queezy almost all day.
I'm feeling better today but not perfect.
Good thing I'm better because Gracie has gotten sick again. She has laid in bed all day throwing up.
I can't keep phenergan in her little tummy for anything. I think I'll consider suppositories next time.
I feel so badly for her. She's laying there white as a sheet looking plum pitiful.
Say a prayer for her that she'll get over this soon and that no one else gets this again.

2009

2009-01-01T20:26:00.003-05:00

Another year has passed. Can you believe it?
As I look back at a few things I did personally or as a family here is a small list.

Started homeschooling Gracie
Gracie lost her first tooth (or teeth)
Gracie turned 5
Isaiah turned 4
Isaiah had his first trip to the ER for nursemaids elbow (twice)
We moved into a 3 bedroom house!!
Made new friends
Started a job at Starbucks
Missed old friends!!
Got a new vehicle
Lost my Aunt Anne
Got a super rad tattoo
Got highly involved with our praise team
Donated my hair to locks of love
Had multiple cavities filled
Took a family trip to Nashville, TN

I look forward to what God has for our family in 2009.

We had a great Christmas this year. The kids opened presents here at the house and played for a few hours while I cooked, cleaned and packed to leave for NC.
While in NC everyone got sick except Chris, Kelly, and Isaiah! It was crazy!! The stomach virus ran through the Jones house like crazy!! By the way, David, that was NOT a nice Christmas gift!!
I love to shop after christmas clearances in NC. I have my favorite stops which include Hamricks (a discount clothing,shoe etc store) for kids and adults. This is where I get the kids' Christmas clothes for the coming year at like 75% off!! LOVE IT!!!
I also go to bath and body works for their major sale and I look at all the store in between.
Another must for us while in NC is Krispy Kreme!! I think we got 4 dozen this year!! Before you scream you must know there were 6 adults and 5 kids in the house, all whom love to eat!!

So long 2008, now I just have to start preparing my taxes!! YUCK!!

Merry Christmas From the Jones Family

2008-12-19T20:25:00.002-05:00

We've sent you a Christmas card... please open it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-eFBTAU1QsU

Ethan the Snowman

2008-12-14T15:18:00.003-05:00

The kids were able to make the second snowman of their life on Friday.
The first was a couple winters ago at our Flemingsburg house and they named her Katie-Rae. This one they decided to name Ethan. How cute... they keep it in the Carmichael family.

My baby is 4!

2008-12-13T16:17:00.003-05:00

Today is Isaiah's 4th birthday. Can you believe it?
These 4 years have flown by. As I type this at 4:18 PM I would be 2 minutes away from him delivering at 4:20 PM. Translation: I was in a LOT of pain right now!!
We went to Indiana yesterday to have Christmas with my family and we celebrated Isaiah's birthday while there with a spiderman cake and everything else spiderman themed. Isaiah and his cousin Mason really enjoyed licking the icing all night! Boys!
I am so blessed to have the beautiful children that we have been given! I thank God today that Isaiah has seen his 4th birthday!

Point of Grace

2008-12-11T21:30:00.004-05:00

Tuesday evening December 9th Sarah Polley and I met up in Lexington at Immanuel Baptist church to see Point of Grace and Robbie Freeman's Winter Wonderland concert.
It was a treat.
They are super talented ladies who sounded great live!
I had never heard of Robbie Freeman until that night. He has a nice voice as well, but a little too contemporary for me.
The best was talking to Sarah while both driving there and praying she wouldn't run out of gas on new circle in the cold and rain. We ate some Arby's and got waited on by Swingo.... had to be there.
And then headed to the church. We first sat in the lower back and then decided the view was better from the front row in the balcony. I was able to get some really good pictures from up there.
I had a horrible headache and soar throat that day and by time I left, my head was about to fall off with pain.
Some of which from laughing so hard at Sarah in front of the POG semi and her making fun of me for getting "star struck" at the photo and signing session. I can't help it that I think they're cool moms!
It was good to spend time with an old friend!
Check out all the pictures on myspace.com/jenljones

Tree

2008-12-08T21:26:00.004-05:00

A little over a week ago I decided to get a tattoo of a tree.
I wanted to share with you the picture that Joe King (the tattoo artist) drew up for me.
It's an amazing drawing of my vision.
I simply explained to him that I wanted a tree that fell into a circular pattern. I also told him that a tree represents growth and that was the reason I was getting it.
He took it to the next level with the ideas of the seasons of change represented through the snowflake, flower, sun, and leaf. I am amazed at the work he did and even more amazed at the work God has done in my life!

Nashville Pics

2008-11-22T20:32:00.002-05:00

Here are a few fun pictures from our Nashville trip

Day in Lexington

2008-11-15T23:48:00.003-05:00

The Jones family hit Lexington today.
We first went to Bleed Blue tattoo and piercing so I could discuss the tree tattoo that I want.
Joe will be getting a sketch together for me. Hopefully it will be ready on Monday. I'm nervous that I wasn't able to get my vision across very well.
We then went to Circuit City and I finally got a Garmin GPS system. I've wanted one of these for years.
Chris finally broke down and said "yes, baby"!! I was so much fun playing with it the rest of our trip today.
After all this we went to Southland for their 5:30 service. It's always fun to go to other churches and take in their service. We went with David and Kelly and the kids were able to go to class together for the first time ever... I think. Gracie, Isaiah, Mia and Jackson had a blast together.
During service we witnessed 7 baptisms... praise the Lord!

After service we took Subway 'to go' and ate it at David's place of employment... Clark funeral home!
Might I add, this is a beautiful facility! The kiddos where able to run around and act crazy. They where loud enough to wake the dead!! HA HA HA!! It was killing me!!! HEE HEE HEE!!
side note: the place was empty.. not a body in sight!

Nashville TN

2008-11-13T20:47:00.002-05:00

The Jones family had a wonderful 3 days in Nashville.
You will laugh at me for this, but I'll go ahead and admit this.
Chris and I had no idea that the CMA's were Thursday night. Once I found this out on Wednesday evening I was determined to spot a "STAR"!
We spent countless hours at the Opry Mills mall simply because it's huge and you just can't take a country girl to a mall that big. I was awe-struck. I had to go into every store that sold something that smelled good, tasted good or looked good on the kids! Needless to say, I drove Chris crazy. I loved this place.
Although I did not see anyone I knew we ate and shopped like never before.

The whole reason we went to Nashville was to take a tour of the Wyndham Vacation Resorts.
Yes, they suckered us into that. Over all, it was not bad. The dude that showed us around (Gene) was great.
His looks were a cross between Howie Mandell and Chris Daughtry.... not bad huh?
So we didn't purchase anything from them after 3 hours of talking but it really is a GREAT program that we now believe in.

We toured downtown Nashville and didn't see a person we knew. While there, we heard Miley Cirus performed a FREE concert the day before the CMA's. BUMMER. Wouldn't that have been cool to go to?
I think we may have seen all the people flooding out of the arena she performed in. Sometime Wednesday afternoon while driving down Broadway we saw a lot of people flocking around the arena. It looked important. Of course, at the time we had no idea all the starts where in town. Other wise I may have made a fool of myself.

We also went to the Aquarium Restaurant TWO TIMES because it was simply amazing. This place had a huge, floor to ceiling, salt water tank in the middle of the dining area. As you sat and ate you could watch huge fish, sharks, a guitar sharks, a nurse shark, and sting rays swim around. This place was too neat.
The kids where mesmerized by it and so were we. This place alone is worth a 3 1/2 hour drive.

We also saw Madagascar 2 at the IMAX. Now that was big, huge, large!! We sat in the back row and still felt like we were in the desert. I think we could have been in KY and saw it.

We hit build- a- bear today and Gracie made Miley who wears a "Nashville" t-shirt. I loved the Apple Barn in the Opry Mills mall. If you like apples,cookware, cook books, gifts, food and home-made candy this is your type of place too! I also had to hit the Yankee Candle Co store where I purchased their new Soy Holiday candle that is so cinnamon-y.
While downtown today we went to Fort Nashborough replica. We got awesome pics at this place.
After that, we headed to a disappointing Hard Rock Cafe. I've only been to a Hard Rock once and that was in Atlanta. Now Atlanta was rockin'.... Nashville, not so much.

After this we went to the Adventure Science Center.... this place ROCKED! We spend hours there and could have stayed longer. It was well worth the money and time. Gracie and Isaiah had a blast. Isaiah's favorite thing was a replica of a car with a clear hood to see inside. This was hands on. He was able to take off the back tires and rotate them and then get the car to start etc. He did this forever! I loved seeing him so excited about this object!

After this we headed home. Nashville is a special place that we look forward to going back to!

Tooth Two

2008-11-08T09:54:00.003-05:00

Gracie lost her second tooth this morning.
Somehow daddy knocked it out when he picked her up to give her a hug.
He is always hurting the kids somehow!!
This tooth was so loose it was really only a matter of time before it fell out.
Isaiah managed to knock both loose a few weeks ago.
So far there is no sign of either hole getting a tooth in anytime soon.
She's going to be the lith-ping tooth-leth wonder!

Obama 08

2008-11-06T11:45:00.002-05:00

Is anyone else bummed and a little depressed over the 2008 election outcome?
I really just don't know what to think of this whole scenario.
This has NOTHING to do with Barack Obama being bi-racial.
It has everything to do with what he does and does not believe in and what he has and has not done.

I'm concerned about this young voting generation that is so ready for the "Change". I'm concerned about what the "change" is and what the outcome will be. I think it shows the lack of Christianity in our young people. Do they truly KNOW God?? Do they know Jesus at all?

I ask myself what this election outcome really says about our country that was founded on Christian principles and truths.

All I can do right now is shake my head.

Meal Planning

2008-11-03T17:32:00.003-05:00

Chris found a really neat website for us through Dave Ramsey called E-Mealz at www.e-mealz.com.
Check it out, you may find this weekly meal planning and grocery list very helpful for your family!!

KCU

2008-10-31T20:41:00.003-04:00

Today was our big day at KCU.
Chris was invited to speak at chapel this morning.
He was very excited to have been asked to speak. He's was nervous the whole week leading up to today.
We went up last night and stayed in the "Presidential Apartment" and Gracie and Isaiah thought it was awesome. It was simply an outdated one bedroom apartment. They acted like we were in a 4 star spa hotel!
Don't misunderstand me, we were very appreciative to get the place for the night. We took with us 2 of our youth from CCC so that they could tour the campus and make some future college decisions.
They seemed pleased.

Chris did a great job preaching this morning on "Systems vs Saviour". He was flooded with comments from some of his previous professors. That's always encouraging.
Another very encouraging and unexpected thing was that 3 of our friends from New Life came to listen to him as well. I called Amy and invited her so I knew she was coming (so glad to squeeze her again) but James Watkins and AJ Mulllholland both came as well simply to hear Chris.
That's awesome! Thanks guys!

Chris and I are both coming down with some kind of cold. The kids and I got a flu shot this week so hopefully we won't get anything serious. I hate cold weather for all the illnesses that come along with it.

I took the kids trick or treating tonight around Tara Est. We meet neighbors we've never seen before.
It was quick and painless. I think we visited 6 houses in our little loop. Gracie was a fairy and Isaiah was his famous Julius Peppers football player.

The tooth

2008-10-28T10:22:00.004-04:00

Here are a few pictures of the wiggly tooth and the missing tooth. It's hard to tell which tooth is missing with her gap at the top but it is her bottom right that was wiggly and now gone!

Busy Week

2008-10-27T13:21:00.003-04:00

I have a busy week ahead and have a lot on my mind.
Today I have got to get to the grocery. We are out of everything!
The poor kids are suffering!
Gracie has to start another week of school today and I have to get house work done. I'm so off schedule already b/c I worked later today than usual. Good news is, I don't go back in until Thursday AM!

Friday is a big day for us. Chris will be preaching at Chapel at KCU. He is very honored to have been invited to speak.
We are going to Grayson on Thursday as a family. Chris' parents will come in from NC on Friday and meet up at KCU for the big event.
Afterwards, they will be coming to London with us and spending a few days at our place.

Gracie lost her first tooth last week.
Isaiah knocked it loose about 2 weeks ago and it has just been gradually loosening up. I "pulled" it on Saturday and it nearly made Gracie pass out. She is just like me in that area.
Any time I had to pull a tooth I would get to queasy and sick. She was white as a ghost and had to lay down for a little while afterwards. She recovered quickly and is now proud of the whole event.
Her other bottom tooth is loose as well from where Isaiah hit her in the mouth twice in one week. It's only a matter of time until it falls out as well. The dentist said they were both knocked loose easier b/c of her adult teeth coming in under it. I think she'll get her adult teeth kinda early. Some of her older friends haven't lost a tooth yet and they get a little jealous. Look for pictures soon!

Frazier Farm

2008-10-24T10:41:00.004-04:00

The kids and I went to Frazier Farm which is a local farm in Laurel County.
It was a hop, skip and a jump away.
It is literally a family's farm/home ran by a mom and dad of 5 school aged children.
We were the only ones there so I was skeptical at first that we would have fun.
But I was totally wrong.
We first fed the ducks and one goose. Gracie was scared to death that they would get her.
Then we went through the round hay bail maze and played hide n seek in there.
Mrs. Frazier brought out two 3 1/2 week old piglets (Porky and Petunia) that were absolutely adorable.
Again, Gracie was scared they would get her.
After playing with the pigs we went on our own wagon ride around the farm to the pumpkin patch where we each picked a little pumpkin. We were able to see goats, pigs, cows and ponies on the wagon ride and 2 small ponds.
After pumpkin pickin' we went through the smaller corn maze. They have a 3 acre corn maze, but we decided that might not be a good thing for us to get lost in.

They also had a barn full of all sorts of pumpkins and gourds. We went through all they had to tried to pick a variety to decorate with. I plan on drying my duck neck and apple gourds out to use decoration one day. I think they are very neat looking when dry.
Over all, we had a really fun 2 1/2 hours together on the farm!

Karate Song

2008-10-13T19:12:00.002-04:00

One of Isaiah's favorite songs is the "Karate Song". It's one we learned at camp so it has fun motions.
You do arm chops and even the "karate kid" stance.
Here's the words:
Oh magnify the Lord
For HE is worthy to be praised!
Oh magnify the Lord
for HE is worthy to be praised!
Hosanna, (HUH) blessed be the
rock of my salvation
Hosanna, (HUH HUH) blessed be the
rock of my salvation.

One day while singing this in the van/truck/suv/crossover (whatever) he asks Chris
"Dad, what is a TOOBEE?"
Not understanding Chris said "A what?"
Isaiah said, "A TOOBEE. It says 'for He is worthy TOOBEE praised'!"
At this point Chris wanted to make up something like, it's an instrument like a tuba but you play it with your toes etc...
But he explained it was two words that meant "yet to come". Well he didn't get that either.
But now he knows it's not a toobee!
Funny!

The spider man room

2008-10-10T11:27:00.004-04:00

Isaiah is so excited about his spider man room.
We had a cute spider man 3 border up but it fell down. We have to redo that one.
Here's pictures of his dresser that I painted and he and Gracie super excited about putting spider man on the wall!

Signature Hot Chocolate

2008-10-10T11:10:00.003-04:00

Have you tried the new Signature Hot Chocolate at Starbucks??
If not, you MUST!
It is to die for.
It is made with 4 different, all natural cocoas. There aren't any artificial sugars or added things and no high fructose corn syrup! YUM YUM!
We offer 3 different variaties.
Our original Signature HC with steamed cocoa, whipped cream and chocolate powder.
A hazelnut HC with hazelnut , steamed cocoa, whipped cream and chocolate powder
and then my personal favorite the Salted Carmel.
It has toffee nut, steamed cocoa, whipped cream, caramel drizzle and roasted sea salt!
This is my new obsession. I crave it daily! It is so rich and creamy!! It's not your kids cocoa!
This is an adults' drink!

SOLD!!

2008-10-05T14:54:00.003-04:00

We finally finalized on the Pecks Ridge house on Thursday.
We met up with the new owners and got all the T's crossed and I's dotted.
I'm praising the Lord for getting this one off our shoulders.
One down one to go!!!
Other than friends and memories we have no more ties to Flemingsburg, KY.

This morning at church Gracie went on stage with Chris to answer some questions of things they have been learning in Jr. Church. It was the cutest thing. It brought tears to my eyes seeing her up there holding her mic with such confidence answering questions.
Keith is out of town this weekend and next, so Chris was able to preach today as well as next Sunday.
This is his first back to back preaching since we've been in London.
I look forward to it. At one time I told him he was not cut out for preaching but he's come a long way.
I think his approach is excellent. I'm very proud of him!

While Chris was away this weekend doing his "man getaway" with his man friends, I decided to refinish an old dresser my parents gave me years ago.
Isaiah doesn't have any dressers so I thought I'd create a new look for him.
I primed it first in a really deep blue then painted over it with a bright red (spider man colors).
The brush strokes allowed the blue to come out underneath in spots. It's neat looking.
It's not perfect but Chris really likes it and so does Isaiah. I guess I shouldn't care too much since it's going into a 3 1/2 year old's room. It will probably be destroyed by next week!

no go

2008-09-30T18:42:00.002-04:00

Well we didn't make it to the closing today. Somehow all the necessary paperwork didn't get done so we're going to try to do this again tomorrow. Needless to say, we're a little disappointed and confused.
I allowed myself to get excited and then this. So now I won't let myself get over stimulated until it is truly finished.

Cat skin

2008-09-29T20:07:00.003-04:00

Isaiah took a shower this evening and got himself all washed and dried up. We were going over each body part to make sure he had gotten them all good and dry when he remembered he didn't get his ears.
He asked "Can I dry my ears?" I said "yeah, why?"
"Because my cat skins" he said with question.
I knew exactly what he was talking about and I just smiled and asked " You mean your CAT scan?"
Real excited he said "Yeah, can I dry them?"
I told him he could dry his ears and that later he'd be having a CAT scan.
He asked "Will they come out?"
I said "Will what come out, your ears?"
He yelled"No, my cat skins!?

I thought I could pee my pants over this one! Totally blog worthy!

Praise the Lord!

2008-09-29T18:25:00.002-04:00

Have you heard the good news??
We are closing on our Flemingsburg house tomorrow in Mt. Sterling at 4:00!!
We are just excited as can be!
God has really been with us over the past year+. He has taught us patience and with patience knowledge.
It truly is all about His time!
I am so thankful to have one house gone and only one to sell!! What a burden released off our families' shoulders!
Pray for the family that is purchasing this house.
They have rented it from us since we left there, and I feel we've been a positive influence on them.
We were really trying to get them into church but haven't had any luck so far.
Pray that the house will be a blessing to them and that someone will cross their path and lead them to Christ!

Beautiful Day

2008-09-28T14:34:00.002-04:00

For the first time in a long time, I can say I enjoyed our worship service today.
Now I know it is never about me, the music, the instruments etc, but yet it is... it's all about dynamics.
I love the beauty of simplicity.
One man on a mic and piano , 2 women on a mic, one man on a guitar and one man on drums...
it's that simple!
We were able to rock out our praise with Marvelous Light (which I love) and gradually slowed it down to the simple "Our God Reigns, Our God Reigns, Forever YOUR kingdom reigns" just slowly building it to a rocked out praise session.
I was truly pumped this morning and still am!
Man, this is my passion and what I love to do for my Lord!

Apple pickin'

2008-09-25T17:22:00.008-04:00

Today was apple picking day at Haney's Orchard in Nancy, KY.
Nancy is about 10 minutes past Somerset, KY so it was about an hours drive.
Not bad at all.
We went with Cornerstone Christian schools' K-2 Grade so there were a LOT of kids there.
I was able to go with 2 other homeschool families Kim and her 3 girls MaKenna (6), Ella (4), Emsly (21 mo) and Melissa and her 2 kiddos Sam (2) and Grace (6). Us moms were out numbered 7-3 by small children.
It was a little hectic, but we're glad we went.
After the orchard we drove on into Somerset and ate at McDonalds and let the kids run around and get to know eachother.
Afterwards, we went to the Somerset Library which is awesome. The first level is the "adult" level and the upstairs is all for kids! You can actually be a little loud up there. The whole floor is dedicated to kids.
It's an awesome place! We stayed there about an hour and a half just looking around, talking and letting the kids play some more.

We now have about a peck of apples here at the house. I think we may cook some up with cinnamon and maybe bake an apple pie... yum yum!!

A few pictures

2008-09-24T18:19:00.003-04:00

Gracie's new hair cut, SGI 2008 Jones vacation, First day of School

Follow Up

2008-09-24T18:15:00.002-04:00

Today was Isaiah's 2 week post surgery follow up.
The dr said everything looked good and to continue on soft foods and keeping it "calm" until we get through the weekend. BUMMER!!!

Dr. Speach's office will be getting us an appt as well for a head CAT scan, which may require Isaiah to be sedated since you have to be still for such a long period of time. This is to look into the ear situation.
He was telling me today that it is a "ball" of skin behind his ear canal and as he grows it will continue to grow... which isn't good.
So, we need to do something about it now before it becomes too large and really does damage to his hearing etc.

life

2008-09-23T19:12:00.003-04:00

Life has been pretty normal at the Jones home. Isaiah is finally feeling well after surgery. It took every bit of 10 days until he got better and 12 days before he was off of tylenol every 4 hours and phenergan every 6 hours! The poor kid was on medicine all day every day for 12 days. That doesn't sound good.
He needed it though!! He goes in tomorrow for his 2 week check up. After this, he's hoping he can eat hard and scratchy food again.

Gracie, Isaiah, and I plan on going to Haney's Orchard this week with another home school mom that I met at the library yesterday. She schools her 6 year old, Grace and lives just a few miles down the road from us.
She too is a minster's wife and is a transplant to London. She too is struggling making friends and connections. I thank God that he put her in my path yesterday b/c she seems to be a super sweet lady!!
I pray for continued guidance through home schooling and networking.

Gracie has also started tumbling once a week here in London with Diane McCowan's Dance Studio.
She is loving it. I think I have really found her talent!! The one thing I hate is that parents do not get to sit in on the sessions so I have no clue as to what she's learning or how well (or bad) she's doing. She tries to explain things to me that she's learned but I don't understand all of it. She did come home yesterday and tell me she is supposed to work on her cart wheels. My question is, 'how am I supposed to teach her when I don't know how?'

The Chicken Festival starts in 2 days. Chris will be working the church booth at that and I will be playing in the volleyball tournament. I can't wait, it's gonna be FUN!

post op

2008-09-11T20:59:00.002-04:00

Isaiah's surgery went well. Everything went as it should for taking out adenoids and tonsils.
They gave him plenty of morphine so he was VERY tired after surgery. He slept hard until we got home around 4 pm. We were at the surgery center a total of 6 hours... it felt like 4 days!
He got up this morning and took tylenol and antibiotics and has been doing well all day. We simply give him tylenol every 4 hours and that satisfies him. He also has numbing suckers to suck on for a few minutes to help numb his mouth. He says they don't work though.

He's been trying to run around today. We've had to tell him several times to "slow down" or "stop running" or "stop jumping". He's on day one of recovery and he's supposed to stay down for 2 weeks. ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!!! I'm gonna have to strap this boy down!!

As far as his left ear goes, Dr. Speach went into it from the inside and tried to suck out what he thought might have been fluid but nothing came out. It could be extra skin in his ear but the good news is that it's not a tumor or anything very serious. Once he is healed up, he's scheduled for a CAT scan and a hearing test to see what's really going on inside there. It's all confusing to me, but I think over all he's gonna be ok.

The prayers were felt yesterday. I managed to not go into the "ugly" cry. I only had a few tears come down post surgery. I really did well.

Surgery

2008-09-09T21:35:00.003-04:00

Isaiah has to be in Lexington tomorrow (Wed. ) at 8:45 for his adenoid/tonsil surgery.
While under, they will also be looking into his left ear. When he went to the ENT, he said his left ear did not look normal. He could not tell me anymore than that without looking into it further via ear stuff and/or X-ray.
Please pray that the surgery and recovery go well for all of us.

Back to school

2008-09-03T15:54:00.002-04:00

Harvest Homeschool officially started this week.
Gracie is really liking kindergarten and I'm enjoying it as well. So far, it's only taking us about 50 minutes to complete a days work. She's picking up on her letters really well. Right now we're learning about the 7 days of creation so each lesson goes along with that. It's so neat to have her learn basic skills while learning the Bible as well.

I took Gracie to get her first real haircut today as well. I needed a trim and so did she so we both got our hair wacked off. Her's is an adorable swing bob with the cutest stack in the back. She looks so grown up!! She can't quick smiling about it! I love it on her and so does Chris.

I'll get pics uploaded one day of her first days of school and her new do!!

Once I get a computer at the house, I'll be doing much better keeping up with downloading pictures.

"It's a great day for surfing" Isaiah Jones

2008-08-18T14:08:00.003-04:00

Today is the perfect beach day.
The sun is out, the clouds are few and far between and the water's just right.
Tomorrow may be a different story if Fay comes in. (the expected hurricane).
Last night we took family pictures... enough said about that!!!

Today we rode down to the Blue Parrot restaraunt and had some grouper, scallops and shrimp. Chris and dad enjoyed a good anugs burger!

Tonight we're going on a "sunset cruise". It's a boat ride from 5-9 PM that will include sight seeing of the Apalachicola Forest with bears and alligators! Can't wait to get pics of this.
Then we'll stop and swim and be able to get great shells and sand dollars (from what we're told).
They'll take us around the island bay and beach side... I think this is gonna be fun!! The kiddos should really enjoy this trip!

"It's a great day at the beach!" Isaiah Jones

Jones, party of 10

2008-08-16T23:49:00.002-04:00

The Jones family has made it safely to Florida.
We had a good, but long, trip.
We're supposed to get rain all week and a class/level 1 or 2 hurricane on Wednesday.
Sounds like an eventful week!! I think Chris is excited about this. He told me "I would like to live through a hurricane."

WHAT???

New Ride

2008-08-15T20:49:00.002-04:00

I am so excited about the new vehicle we just got!
We've been so blessed by God!!
We were able to get a 2007 Ford Freestyle.
I had never seen one until yesterday when we got it.
Our friend Jim from church was able to find it for us. It's white with silver on the bottom.
It's a neat little ride. It's considered a cross-over so we don't know whether to call it a car, van, truck or SUV.
Maybe we should call it a cruck.
We drove it today for about 7 hours to Macon, GA. Tomorrow we'll make the rest of our trip to St. George Island, FL.
We had a good trip today. Isaiah was pretty whiney the 7 hours so tomorrow I think we'll put him in mamaw and papaw's SUV!!! HE HE!!

My Father's World

2008-08-14T17:38:00.002-04:00

It's official...
I just finished ordering Gracie's Kindergarten curriculum. We will be using "My Father's World".
After much searching online and asking many questions, I feel this is going to be a good choice for her!!
I can't wait for it to all come in. I'm hoping that it will be here when we get back from vacation!!
She's excited and so am I!!

So busy

2008-08-13T22:47:00.002-04:00

I've not posted in forever! You could say I've lost touch with the internet for awhile.
Now having internet while at home makes it really difficult to keep up with "Keepin' up with the Joneses!!
Our latest news is that we've moved again.
We were in the 1 bed 1 bath apartment just over a year.
We've now moved into a 3 bed 2 bath home with plenty of room to play, sit, homeschool and just have fun!!
We're so blessed and excited to begin "normal" again.
We leave for vacation on Friday for a week at St. George Island, FL with my parents and brother's family.
This is a much needed vacation!!
After that, Gracie will start school here at the house.
The Lord gives you what you want, as I wanted to be a teacher when I was younger!
Now that we have a home, we have internet. I just have to go into our storage building and find our desk top!!
Both our lap tops have bit the dust for some reason. I miss them!!!
So, I use Chris' work computer when he brings it home.
I'll gradually get back to posting more regularly!!
PEACE!

Day 5

2008-06-19T15:49:00.002-04:00

MOVE

"GOD, IS THAT YOU??"

God speaks through:
the bible
gifted teachers
the impression of the Holy Spirit
PAIN

Ways to know if what you're hearing is God:
1. Does it agree with the bible
2. Does it make me more Christ-Like
3. Does my church/community affirm it
4. Is it consistent with How God has SHAPEd me
Spiritual gifts
Heart/passion
Abbilities
Personality
Experience
5. Does it concern my responsibilities
6. Is it convicting or condemning
7. Do I sense God' peace about it

A way to request guidance from God:
1. You must realize that God cares about the details of my life
2. You need to ask a specific question
3. You must believe he wants to answer

how to receive his guidance:
1Withdraw Luke 5:16, Hab 2:1-2
2. Wait
a. Relax your body/prepare your body Ps. 46:10
b. Wait in silence Ps. 62:5
3.Watch Eph 1:18
4. Write
5. Worship Hab. 3:2

Day 4

2008-06-19T15:39:00.002-04:00

BOLDNESS

Boldness vs. Rudeness
Boldness vs. Arrogance
There is a big difference between getting people to notice you and getting people to notice God!
Boldness makes people see GOD!

What facing danger does to us:

Lacking courage makes us stubborn
Lacking courage makes us skeptical
Lacking courage makes us selfish
Lacking courage makes us short sighted

Of the four words above, which applies to you??

What type of person does God partner with?

1. People who are doing the right thing Acts 3:1
2. People who are willing to be interrupted Acts 3:2-3
3. People who pay attention to needs Acts 3:4
4.People who give and inspire hope in others Act 3:4
5. People who use what they have Acts 3:6
6 People who realize that they're source is God Acts 3:6
7. God uses those who are willing to try Acts 3:7
8. People who want God to receive the Glory! Acts 3:11

Boldness is not a technique, it's an attitude!!!

God can not draw out of you what you do not allow him to fill you up with!

Day 3

2008-06-19T15:31:00.002-04:00

Community

True community in Christ requires certain things.....

1 You must be willing to pay the price Col. 1:24-25
2. You must be willing to have only one purpose/passion- God won't compete for your attention Col 1:26-28, Col 2:2-4
3. You must understand the purpose of ministry Col 1:28
4. You must depend upon his power and discipline Col 1:29, Col. 2:5
5. You will have to make an investment of effort Col 2:1
6. You will have to make a choice to respond Col. 2:6-7

What choices am I presented with?
1. I choose to be alone or I choose to be with others Ecc 4:12, Heb. 10:25
2. I choose to pretend or to be real Matt 23:27, Ro 12:9, Eph 4:25
3. I choose the easy way of the hard way Eph 4:2, 1Thes 5:14, 1 Cor. 13:7
4. I choose comfort or I choose change John 10:10, 2 Cor 7:9, Prov. 27:17, Heb 10:24

Day 2

2008-06-17T12:06:00.004-04:00

Day 2
Holy Spirit (HS for short) Over View
for your reading pleasure....

The HS is not an emotional state or feeling
The HS is a person- he has individuality, will, intelligence, hearing, knowledge, sympathy,love,desire

The scriptures declare that the HS is GOD
He has power to create
He speaks commands
He is called Lord

He is Like Jesus
He responds to our faith in Jesus

He creates Joyful people
He creates a useful people
He creates an influential people

The spirit will fill for obedience (those "Get To" opportunities)
The HS will Fill for Humility

HOW TO BE FILLED
Present your entire being to be filled
You must ASK
You must be willingly obedient (ouch!)
You must have faith in God

Over View

2008-06-17T12:06:00.001-04:00

CIY 2008~Move

2008-06-16T15:57:00.003-04:00

So, I find myself back in Anderson, IN at another week of CIY MOVE!!
The last time I was here was 2 years ago with my BFF Amy and the New Life crew.
I'm here this week as the girls' sponser..... the only problem is there aren't any Community Christian girls here!!
We had 2 girls and 1 guy back out on us the day before we left.
Needless to say, I've been bored out of my head during time off.
I still have 3 full days of this to endure. God is truly testing me this week.
When I first got here I went into my room 224, unpacked, and made my bed.
I then was moved to 208 and had to move all my junk down the hall. I was willing to do it so girls from the same youth group could room together. But I was frustrated at the staff that was so disorganized!
Now I'm in a stinky dorm room with a lady I'd never met. Kinda awkard. She happens to be from Frankfort, KY's Capital City Christian Church.

The sessions have been good and of course worship time with the Aaron Pelsue band has ROCKED!!

I plan on getting their new cd this week for Chris for "Father's Day"!! It's gonna be a great cd with their new hit "Revoluiton"!!

More hair pictures

2008-06-11T15:23:00.003-04:00

the rest of the cut....

chop chop!

2008-06-11T14:33:00.005-04:00

Today was a big day for me!!

I got all my hair cut off that I've been growing out for 2 years.
I'm sending it away to locks of love, hoping someone there needs it more than I do!!

What a good feeling to help others out!!

Happy 5th, Big G!

2008-06-04T13:43:00.003-04:00

Monday, June 2, 2008 was Gracie's 5th Birthday.
Time sure does fly by quickly.
We had a blast at her slumber party the previous Friday night.
There were 11 girls total plus Chris and I in the tiny apartment. But none of that mattered, it was just fun!!
As soon as I get some pictures (309) downloaded I'll upload them to my blog.
To get the party started we had some pizza hut pizza that was yummy. Then we went bowling for about an hour. The little ones didn't last long at all.
We then walked home for some delicious cake and then opened presents.
We watched 2 movies, Flushed Away and Shark Tail. We finally got to sleep about 12:45 (after 2 little girls had to be picked up due to missing mommy).
It was a fun night but not something I can do very often!! I told Gracie from here on out, she has to have her girl friends over one at a time!!

Initial Outfitters

2008-05-22T15:28:00.003-04:00

Initial Outfitters... ever heard of this?
I hadn't either until a few weeks ago.
A girl I know here in London joined this company so I see her "ads" on myspace etc.
I thought I'd check out the website. It is really neat stuff.
You know me, I love jewelry and things that can be engraved etc.
If you have a minute, check out this web site.

Maya Angelou

2008-05-14T10:22:00.004-04:00

As a Mother's Day gift, Chris brought me to Ashville, NC to a beautiful Bed and Breakfast yesterday. The name of it is White Gate Inn and Cottage.

We arrived yesterday evening at the 1889 home located in the heart of Ashville.
The place is so neat. All the old qualities are here yet very updated. In the sitting area was a huge player piano from 1905 that anyone was allowed to play. We were shown to our room, the newly built Maya Angelou Suite, and I was in awe.
It has a beautiful king size bed with 80 pillows, a flat screen tv hanging over a stone fire place and a view of nothing but gardens around us.
Chris' favorite part was the stand up shower with 6 shower heads. I think I liked the jacuzzi tub the best. We wanted to go to the infra-red sauna, but it was locked up by the time we got back from dinner... maybe next time.

This morning all the guests gathered in the dining room for a 3 course breakfast.
It started with a cup of fruits, next was some type of asparagus egg bake (like a quiche) and third was raspberry fluff with cool whip and chocolate sprinkles. It was good but very rich. Of course the coffee, tea and o.j. was yummo too!!! We talked with the 10 other guests and just chatted about where we're from and where we're going next on our trips. Of course, we're heading home, others where going to the Biltmore today.

We have to be out of here by 11AM. We're heading to the mall to meet up with Chris' parents to pick up our kiddos. They've been in NC since Sunday. What a treat!!!

If you ever need a getaway and can make the drive to Ashville, make a point to stay at the White Gate Inn and Cottage, you'll be glad you did.

I'll post pictures soon!!

On the Lake

2008-05-06T15:18:00.003-04:00

For the remainder of this week The Jones family gets to stay in a beautiful log cabin over-looking a lake.
One of our families in church is out of town and allowing us to stay in their log home and get out of the apartment.
We're less than 10 miles out of city limits of London and it feels like we're in a whole other world out here.
It is absolutely beatufil and peaceful.
We get to lay in hammicks and see the lake outside and while inside we can look at huge moose heads, deer heads, geese, birds of some sort and fish.
What a gorgeaus place!!
Tonight we plan on firing up the grill and having some kind of yummy meat!

The kids have their own room (oh how I miss that) and Isaiah thinks it's "so cool and awesome!"

Right now, they're enjoying the big black bear foot rest. For some reason, Isaiah thinks he needs to wrestle this thing!

If Chris gets some time, I think he's going to take the kids fishing on the boat down on the lake. How fun!!!

Alvin, Simon, Theadore

2008-04-29T11:42:00.002-04:00

You remember the song don't you?
Alvin, Simon, Theadore. Dut dut du-du-du dut. Du-du-du-du dute dute.

The kids and I watched Alvin and the "Chickmunks" 3 times in 2 days.
They LOVED this movie.
I thought it was pretty cute as well.
It took me back to my childhood days of when I would listen to the story on RECORD!!
Isn't that funny!!??

Today we're at the library and I'll be on the hunt for a good, free movie!
I'm sure we'll end up with cartoons like Charlie and Lola.

This weekend the kids and I are heading to Washington Co, IN. My sister-in-law asked me to sing at their church's mother-daughter banquet. So we'll make the drive there for that and to visit family for a little while.
Please pray that we have a safe trip there and back... we'll be going through KY Derby traffic! AHHHH!

Back in NC

2008-04-11T11:24:00.001-04:00

The Jones family is back in North Carolina for an unexpected visit.
Chris' Grandmother Corene passed away on Wednesday at that age of 92. WOW!
What a long life she lived!!
We're here for the funeral and to spend time with family.
Please keep the Jones family in your prayers.

POW

2008-04-04T20:01:00.002-04:00

Each week a different partner at Starbucks is voted "Partner of the Week".
This week was MY week!! I was so excited. The POW gets free drinks for the week.
Kinda not fair since you get free drinks while you work anyway.
I think you should get free pastries for the week!!! That would for sure be an extra 10 pounds gained!

Maybe next I'll be voted Partner of the Month!! How corny am I??

Happy Spring

2008-04-02T21:38:00.002-04:00

Hey there!!
Happy spring. I have nothing to tell you today other than it was such a beautiful day outside today.
I can't wait for full-fledge spring to just blow out our way!!!
Work is going great. I was awarded partner of the week which means I get free drinks all week, on and off the clock! Yeah me!!!

Today I'm just praisin' the Lord!
How about you??

ready for spring

2008-03-26T11:39:00.002-04:00

I am so ready for spring. Anyone else??
As I drive around and see the Easter lillies in full bloom, it makes me long for the sweet, sweet smells of spring.
I'm ready to ditch the coats and sweaters.
I've started using my sunless tanner (I swore to never tan in a tanning bed again back in 2000)and am ready to wear capri pants, sandals and t-shirts!

I also look forward to getting out of the apartment more during the week by going to the park and letting the kids run around like a crazy people. Maybe I need to run around like the crazy lady I am too!!

big day

2008-03-10T15:48:00.002-04:00

Today is a huge day for our friends Kelly and Jeni Carmichael (and Ethan and Katie-Rae).
Kelly and Jeni left today for a two week trip to India to rescue their girl, Macy and bring her home!
Please pray that they have a safe trip and that Macy responds well to her new family.
God has proven to be so good to them through this process and we pray everyone returns to Kentucky safe and happy.
Can't wait to see you, Macy!!!

School names

2008-02-28T19:06:00.002-05:00

As summer approaches Chris and I have really had to start looking into what we need to do in order to start homeschooling Gracie this fall.
The more I think about it, pray about it and read about it; my heart is simply convicted that this is the right choice for our family.

One thing we have to do is come up with a school name. It can be anything you like.
We've come up with a few such as Victory Academy and Freedom Academy (very basic).
What I would like you to do is come up with an original name for our school.
The winner of this challenge will be sent a very special prize!!
So get creative in your thinking and send them my way!!

We're back

2008-02-26T09:26:00.002-05:00

The Jones family is back to London and in full swing. I had to head back to the "grind" today at 5 AM.

The weekend away was a blessing from God.
Cris and I were able to spend about 3 whole days to ourselves. The "Weekend to Remember" conference was okay. I think I had much higher expectations so it wasn't as good as I thought it could and would be. Over all, we got a TON of info and a whole binder on things to work on with our marriage and become "one". Oneness was the title of the weekend. The bad thing was it was lecture upon lecture upon lecture. By Saturday afternoon I was about to fall asleep. I don't think I've ever drank as much caffeinated coffee as I did this weekend.

The hotel we stayed at in Concord, NC was directly across from the speedway. That was neat to see from the 8th floor of the hotel. And the mountains that were in the back drop of everything was so beautiful. Cris and I felt like King and Queen in the suite we were in. It was awesome!

Gotta go for today, but I've got more for ya later.

road trip

2008-02-21T19:52:00.002-05:00

It's Thursday evening and the Jones family is in North Carolina.
Chris and I will be going to a marriage retreat/conference in Charlotte from Friday to Sunday. We look forward to the time away and the reconnecting. We'll be staying in the Embassy Suites Hotel and spa, now that sounds rewarding!
I think I'll be checking out the spa services first thing! Then we'll hit the pool and hot tub (can anyone say "fungus"?)

I'm daily thinking of my friends from New Life (Flemingsburg, KY) who are on the mission trip in Mexico right now.
My dear Amy and her 14 year old son Dustin where 2 that went. This is there first mission trip and first time flying as well. While they're away we're not able to communicate so I look forward to hearing all about the Mexico trip. I know God is using each one of them this week. I pray they have a safe journey home tomorrow as well.
I wish very badly I could have went with the New Life crew!!

been gone... for awhile now

2008-02-08T16:43:00.000-05:00

I've been gone for some time now. (You've known that already haven't you??)
I got an eye infection last Tuesday and by Friday I had Chris' strep throat on top of it. I was lookin' and feelin' good!
I was in bed for a good week. I'm so glad to be up and going again. I have to say, Chris was the bomb husband and dad for that week. He was a regular "working mom" taking care of me, the kids, cooking and doing laundry... all that.
After being employed for almost 2 weeks I had to miss a full week of work due to being sick.
I assume when I call to get next weeks schedule, I still have a job. Not the best impression, but what do you do??
I actually look forward to going back to work. I still have LOTS of training to do!
I've not even gotten my first pay check yet. It's sitting on someone's desk somewhere.
That's CRAZY!

The kids are good, well good in the physical sense, they act bad a lot. We're at church right now and they're running around the gym like monkeys out of a cage.
I'm getting my internet time in that I miss so much.
I long for internet at home again.

Oh and let me tell you this.
I got a message on ebay from a person I'd purchased from back in October.
I sent her negative feedback b/c she told me twice I'd get my hair bows by Christmas and they came sometime in late January. I think that's fair on my part. She did tell me her child was ill and sent me a free bow... blah blah blah. I still left negative feed back. She then left me negative feedback because I left her negative feedback.
Read it for yourself on ebay.com jljmary .
She sent me a message asking if I wanted to retract my negative feedback and she'd retract hers! I said "no way, I don't do business like that. I left negative feedback for a reason." She left it to get back at me.... how wrong!!!

Thanks for listening today!

Livin' it up

2008-01-28T16:35:00.000-05:00

I've had two "days" of training. A total of 8 hours..... 32 to go!!
I'll work this week on Tuesday and Thursday from 7p-11p and again on Friday for our official ribbon cutting ceremony at 2:00. I'm excited about that.
I assume I'll make the local paper in my black get up and green apron.
So far all I've learned to do is make an espresso and steam 2% milk. I have so much more training to do before I'm able to help a single person.
I still have to learn the rest of the hot bar, then the cold bar, then register and lastly drive thru. Can a girl my age learn all this?
What's funny is I'm training with a 17 year old girl. Don't I feel old??!!
None the less, I still love my free coffee and I love my new job!
Come see me sometime!!

JenBucks

2008-01-23T11:10:00.000-05:00

I went in for my interview yesterday and walked out an employee of Starbucks.
I start today from 2-6 PM. How easy was that??
I really am excited to have a job that hopefully will be low stress and yet fun.
I look forward to the environment and learning to make new beverages. Oh and I also look forward to the pastries! This job could cause weight gain!

I'll be working 4-5 hours shifts about 3 days a week. Very simple.
I'm hoping to work early mornings before Cris goes into work and late evenings when he gets off work. I think it's all going to work out. I'm just thanking God that he has provided me with the opportunity to witness to others as well as being able to make a little money to put into savings! Every penny counts!!

JOB??

2008-01-14T16:27:00.000-05:00

I went into the London Starbucks today to get an application.
I only want to work very part time. We'll see if I qualify or not.
They are supposed to open next Friday, January 25th.
I can't wait!!!

My kind of place

2008-01-04T20:43:00.000-05:00

I have found a great new hang out for the Jones family (mainly me).
While the kids and I were walking along Main Street in the freezing cold yesterday, we came upon a place called Sel Et Poivre. I had never heard of it nor seen it in all my times driving passed it.... ON Main Street.
We decided to go in and take a look and get a menu. Upon entrance I new this was my kind of place. Black and warm yellow walls with beautiful hanging lights, open ceilings, bright red suede-like chair covers and booths, black and white photos, free WiFi, a daily changing menu(the kind on a chalk board) and best of all...... they serve Starbucks coffee.
Where have I been since moving to London???
When we moved here I asked about a Starbucks and someone told us that there was a place that served the coffee and they acted as though it wasn't very good. THEY ARE WRONG!!
The gingerbread lattes are great and the white hot chocolate is rich. The menu looks absolutely scrumptious. I can't wait to come here with Chris for lunch or a dinner night out.
When the kids and I came yesterday it was us 3 and 3 other kids in the place and that was all.
When we got here tonight at 8:00 PM it was a packed house. We had to wait to get a table. Chris was ready to go and I asked him to wait so we could sit and take in the atmosphere. I also wanted to be able to get on the internet while here. Gracie is acting like such a grown up drinking her white hot chocolate out of her Starbucks cup. What a hoot!!!
If you're ever in London, come onto Main Street and find Sel Et Poivre and find me as well!!

observing

2007-12-29T23:41:00.000-05:00

It's 11:42 PM and I'm sitting up just observing.
Jim Jones, David Jones, Chris Jones and Wayne Wilson have been playing monopoly for a few hours now.
Aaron Pelsue and I have been watching some football game that's a big deal to the guys here.
Nor Nor is asleep on the couch and has been for awhile now.
It's interesting to just sit here and listen to these 5 men sit around playing childish games and watching football.
I'm bored out of my head but not ready for bed.
So, I'll continue to make small talk and listen.

Rate my photo

2007-12-28T19:39:00.000-05:00

http://www.picture.com/voteforme/photovote1.asp?PID=2446449

Go to this sight and you can rate my photo of Gracie that I submitted into an online photo contest. If I win, I'm not sure what I get but I'd like to find out!!

Rate My Photo, Click Here

2007-12-27T17:22:00.000-05:00

Christmas, is it really over? Did you have a good one???
We sure did and still are??
We had planned on leaving London Wednesday morning but ended up leaving at 5:00 PM on Christmas day. After opening presents and having lunch, Chris threw out the idea of going on to NC. I told him if we were going to do that I needed to get cleaning and doing some laundry to pack.
So in about 3 hours I did 2 loads of laundry, cleaned out the fridge and got all the lunch stuff washed up. After that, we were on our way. The kids were so very excited that we left a day early. They also were so excited (as was I) that we were going to show up at the house unannounced.
The plan worked. We turned off our car lights when we pulled into the drive and rang the doorbell at about 10:30 PM. Pop's face was VERY confused when he came to the door.
When it opened we said "Merry Christmas!"
How fun!!!
We got up the next morning got our showers (except for Chris b/c it's a Christmas tradition to not shower) at some breakfast and then started the present opening process.
The 5 kids went first. After them, we cleaned up some paper and had intermission time. Then it was adult time! I think my favorite gift was the Beth Moore daily "Praying God's Word prayer cards"from David and Kelly... thanks guys!
Isaiah's fav gift was his full spider-man suit, Gracie's favorite gift was her Gabriella doll, Chris' fav gift was the book "Skin" by Ted Dekker.

Today Chris and I went out shopping. He's wanting to find a new pair of shoes and I was on the hunt for a digital camera. We did research online and found what I wanted at Walmart!
Right now I'm charging the camera battery. Once it's ready, I'll be taking some pics and playing around with it. I love new gadgets!

We've got another 4 days in NC and we will do some more after Christmas sales shopping. I always get the kids' winter clothes for next year at this time. It really does save the bucks!!

Merry Christmas

2007-12-22T15:00:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is the last Sunday before Christmas which means lots of Christmas music in church service. YEAH!! I love Christmas songs.. don't you??

Monday night CCC will be having our Christmas Eve service where I'll be Mary and sing Breath of Heaven. I think our bell choir will also be playing. They are so beautiful to hear! There's nothing like bells at Christmas time!

Monday day Amy and Dustin will be coming to our apartment in London for the first time. We'll eat, chat, open gifts and just catch up for awhile. I can't wait to see them again! Amy and I have seen each other a few times since the big move but she has not seen the kids since July.

I so look forward to Tuesday morning. Oh, the ah and wonder in the kids' eyes as they peer upon all their gifts. I too noticed I had a couple under the tree...obviously I've been a good girl this year. I look forward to reading them the Christmas story (even though Gracie has it memorized) and just talking about Jesus' birthday! I'm as excited as the children!!

Then Wednesday morn we'll head towards Advance, NC where the weather will be in the high 50's!! This weather is crazy. I'm so glad we were able to see snow last weekend while at my parents home in Indiana. Even though we did have to drive thru 3 inches of the stuff up and over and around those country roads, it was still so pretty!

Well, as usual, I'm off to Walmart for the 3rd day in a row. I REALLY must be crazy.

Merry Christmas and have a BLESSED new year in Jesus Christ!

From our home to yours!

can you believe it?

2007-12-19T18:25:00.000-05:00

Can you believe Christmas is almost here??
I love seeing the wrapped gifts under out little tree. The kids have done so well this year.
They've not picked up a single present to try and open it.
I can't help but think back to last year when I was watching little Noah Fizer at my house in Flemingsburg. He came over 2 times a week and through December, he opened a present everytime he was there. I had to rewrap a few of them. Thankfully Isaiah never did that.

Gracie had something interesting happen to her this past Saturday, December 15 exactly one month from when Isaiah had the same thing happen.
She managed to dislocate her elbow just as Isaiah did. Hers did not seem to be as bad though.
She was hanging around Chris' neck when it happened. He had no idea she did it, but it must have caught just right when she was hanging and it pulled out of socket.
He left to go back to work and she came up to me and tole me she "needed a band-aid cause her arm hurt" I asked her to show me where and to tell me what happened.
She wasn't holding hers close to her belly like Isaiah did but when I told her to lift it above her head she said it hurt.
I then grabbed her hand and turned it inward just slightly. She let out a yell and that's when I knew it had been pulled out. I told her I had to twist her arm in and up and it would be over.
So I did just that. She let out a yelp and then was up and playing.

Isn't it strange how I'd never heard of such a thing and then, just like that, I'm taking one to the ER and mending the other? Chris was very impressed with my doctoring skills when I called him and gave him the news. I told him "it didn't hurt me any to do it."

We'll be off to NC the day after Christmas for about a week. We'll be with the WHOLE family a few days then David and Kelly and the 3 kids will head to her parents house for a few days/nights.
I'll have more internet time while there. Not having internet in the home is killing me. I can't sit and research things like I used to , or shoot out a quick email and my blog is lacking in effort.... I know~~!!

Chris has come for his computer so I must go!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2007-12-13T14:13:00.000-05:00

Today is Isaiah's 3rd Birthday.

So far, we've had a home-made breakfast together, even though I was the only one who liked it.

Then we went to the restaurant of Isaiah's choice, which was McDonald's with the play land.

Later today we'll have cake and ice cream and open presents!

What a fun day!

HI

2007-12-10T12:43:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone. Good Monday to YOU!!

Only 15 days until Christmas. Can you believe that? I can't wait. I love it with the kids!!

Happy Birthday to Kelly Jones today!!!

Jen from London, KY

2007-12-06T15:51:00.000-05:00

I was just on K-LOVE Thursday, 3:50 PM.

I'm STILL here at church online. I had 99 emails to sort through.

I had the radio on while tinkering and all of a sudden there I was.

I sounded horrible! Do I really talk like that??? She used my call- in to open the song "I'm alive" by Steve Fee!!

YIPPEE!!

I'm still alive

2007-12-06T14:25:00.000-05:00

Since turning 30 things have just gone down hill..... I don't even know how to use my computer anymore!
Kidding...

I've not blogged or checked email in a while. I know, not like me.
I don't have internet connection at home anymore so I have to go to the library or church to use the internet. Neither is much fun so I make it super quick so the kids aren't bugging everyone.
Today I'm in the church nursery with Chris' laptop, that way I can blog, check emails and just surf the net and not bother anyone.
The kids are running around and playing... loudly! Can you hear them???

I've had to start using Chris' old laptop because mine literally died one day. The last time the kids and I went to NC I was using it and it was working fine. The next day, I went to turn it on and it would not stay on. As soon as it would power up it would say "now logging off". NOT GOOD!
So all my info, pictures and stuff that were on that computer now can't be retrieved. I'm a little perturbed about that.

Yesterday I wrapped my first Christmas presents. We'll be going to Pekin, IN on the 14 and 15th to do Christmas with my parents and brother and his family.***(Greenvillers, come on by!!)*** So I decided to go ahead and wrap all presents that will go on that trip. The underneath of our little tree is now full. I love it.
Yes, I was able to put up a tree this year. I was afraid I wasn't going to be able to. Chris had to go back to F-Burg and get the rest of our stuff a few weeks ago from the house and all our Christmas decorations were there. So, he let me put up our smaller tree and a few decorations. The kids really had a good time putting all the ornaments on the tree. They're at the age that they enjoyed doing it and not destroying it. Of course the ornaments were on all the lower 2 levels of the tree so I had to go back and move them upward and take multiple ornaments off the branches. So cute!

Last thought,
I heard Steve Fee on K-LOVE today. I was so pumped. He was the worship leader at Catalyst this year and ROCKS! I called into the radio station and told Kelli Caldwell how excited I was that they were playing Steve Fee! I didn't make it on the radio though! BUMMER!

What a day or two

2007-11-21T12:32:00.000-05:00

Seriously, I'm about to lose it!
Yesterday Isaiah decided to pee in his pants 3 times and once on the floor in the bathroom! 4 times in one day, what is going on?
When I woke up this morning, his shirt was wet.... with pee.
He peed through his pull-up and all over my bed from the king size comforter to the fitted sheet.
I now have to take that stupid king size comforter to the laundry mat again.
Here it is Thanksgiving tomorrow and I'm as bitter as a granny smith apple. Satan is trying to ruin me and he's doing a great job at it.
I have so much laundry to try and catch up on because Isaiah has peed on everything! I also have to get to the grocery in order to have things baked and cooked tomorrow to take to David and Kelly's for Thanksgiving lunch. We'll get to see the 3 kids and Nor Nor and Pop.
I'l be making the broccoli casserole, ham, rolls and apple pie.
To top it off, I burnt my right thumb on a 200 degree flat iron this morning. I grabbed that dern thang right on the hot surface. What a dummy! Now my thumb has a pink scar from the glass accident and a big puffy burn on it as well.
I'm determined to destroy that thumb after all.

Nursemaids Elbow

2007-11-16T13:10:00.000-05:00

Last night I was watching 2 girls (ages 2 & 3) so their parent's could go to prayer and share.

It was about 9:00 when Isaiah got stuck behind the couch and Abby and Gracie decided they could pull him out. I told them to stop but it was too late. He was crying that his arm hurt so I felt on it and it made him scream. I knew something was wrong this time. When I felt on his arm right below the elbow it did not feel right. Fear set in.... was it broken or what? Ends up it was pulled out of socket and it's called nursemaids elbow. They showed me how to put it back into place if it ever happens again. I don't know how willing I am to put an elow back into place but I know how now.

He was such a trooper at the ER. He laid in my arms and just held his left arm with his right hand. When she had to put it back into place he screamed NO and just cried. It broke my heart, but it was over to fast. A few minutes later they gave him motrin and he moved it and just laughed at himself at what he'd done. He was so proud he could move it again.

He's fine today and playing as normal. We do have to make sure he's careful with it and to not let him hang on things or swing him by his hands because these are things that cause dislocations.

Sunday Sales

2007-11-11T17:46:00.000-05:00

Today we all went to church at Pinedale Christian Church, which is the church Chris grew up in.

We went to their second service which is known as the contemporary service.

To me, it's what a normal worship service should be. I think out of 6 songs we sang, I only knew 3. I did feel a little lost this morning. They had a great band set up of drums, guitar, vocals, keyboard, sax and slide guitar. It was great. We also heard Jon Hauser preach, who is one of the YM's.

After we came home and had lunch, Nor and I took the kids out shopping. I love sales! First we went to The Rugged Warehouse, which is a small version of like a Gabriel Brothers.

I got a cute little pullover sweater for 4.99, a cute set of 3 "pearl" bracelets and big white sunglasses for 2.99!! What a steal!

Then we headed to K-Mart to look at toys and more sales. Nor got Isaiah a pair of "Cars" shoes and Gracie got fluffy, pink house slippers that say "I love Troy" (from HSM).

I found a plethora of UNC stuff on sale but can't say what because some are Christmas gifts!

I LOVE IT!!!

Our plan tomorrow is to shop....some more. There's supposed to be really good sales going on for Veteran's day.

By the way, THANK YOU to all of those out there serving our great America!! God Bless YOU!

Doodlebops

2007-11-10T18:46:00.000-05:00

Today was a really neat day. Nor Nor and Pop took us to see the Doodlebops Live in Greensboro!

What a fun time!

Dee Dee, Rooney, Moe and Bus Driver Bob are super cool in person.

They really did put on quite the show of singing and dancing.

The kids had fun but you would not know it by looking at their faces.

They sat in their seats with arms folded taking it all in!

Pop and Nor Nor were super nice to buy them light up spinners and flags while there.

By night time the "Doodlebops" came alive in the house by the names of Gracie Doodle and Zayah Doodle.

NC

2007-11-08T20:16:00.000-05:00

The kids and I made it to Nor Nor and Pops house safely.
We'll be here until Tuesday and from what I'm told we have a fun 4 full days planned.
As these days go by I'll keep you updated on the fun!
We did have one funny thing happen on our way here.
Pop met Chris and I (and the kids) somewhere passed Knoxville, TN then he drove us the rest of the way here.
While riding Isaiah said he had to go potty. We drove 2 miles to the next exit which took us directly to no where. Our best option was the side of the road.
It was a very beautiful setting. We were looking over a beautiful flowing creek with colored trees all around and a nice cool fall breeze. I guess Isaiah got nervous because he said it wasn't coming out the let us know "it's cold out here" while his pants and under-roos where around his ankles! It was quite cute!

Family Time

2007-11-03T16:51:00.000-04:00

The Jones family took a little break for 24 hours on Thursday.
Chris left the office early and the 4 of us headed to the Holidome Holiday Inn in Lexington for some fun.
Chris swam with the kids while I enjoyed the sauna all by myself and the hot tub (fungus among us) for just a dip.
The pool was a little chilli for me, even in-doors. I'm the kind that likes to swim outside in 90 degree weather and the pool be at least 86 degrees!
After that, we headed to the mall and had some mall grub.
Isaiah played in the play area with Chris while Gracie and I went to Build A Bear. This was her second time doing this and loved it.
She was 3 last time she did it and she enjoyed it and appreciated it more this time. She also won't put her new bear, Gabriella down. She named her that from one of the kids on High School Musical. The bear is wearing a HSM shirt as well!
After a night in the hotel we went to Hamburg and enjoyed some time at Old Navy and Target and had a good meal at Logan's Roadhouse.
I rounded off our time with a much needed pedicure today at the salon. Boy, my toes where hurtin' for it! It was a great hour of pampering!!

Fall is hair

2007-10-31T14:59:00.000-04:00

I've been waiting and waiting to get my fall "do" done.

I went in to the salon on Monday to have it darkened. Which, it is dark but I like it.

She put some mocha and copper in it. But I thought it looked a little too dull. She agreed.

So she said if I could come back that she'd put some highlights in it at no charge. I said "yeah, I can come in!!!" DUH!!

So today she put some red through-out the top. It's not really noticable in the pictures but it's there very subtly. It's a bright red too, but I love it!

I have to get used to this new me. When I look into the mirror I forget how dark it is and have to look again.

I think Chris likes it because it gives him a feeling of waking up to a new woman.

Blond wife for summer, dark haired wife for winter! Not bad!

Thanks Dena, you did great!

Trunk N Treat

2007-10-30T11:48:00.000-04:00

Sunday night was CCC's Trunk N Treat.

It was our famly's first time doing this and it was FUN!!

For about an hour the kids got to play on the 4 HUGE blow-ups in the gym while adults sang karaoke!! You know, I should correct that because adults played on the blow up slides as much as the kids. Let me tell you, those things are slick!!

We also had hotdogs w/ chili and popcorn... you know, the good kind from the kettle popper!!

After that we had a brief devotion and then the kids were off to the trunks to get more candy than should be allowed.

My kids decided to use things we already had in the house for dress up. Gracie is a Tar Heel chearleader and Isaiah is Julius Peppers for the Panthers! Although I didnt' make it in any pictures, I was a teenager at a slumber party with BIG hair bows on my pig tails, pajama pants, toe socks and slippers.

We had kids and parents from the community that I had never seen before. I hope this outreach worked in a big way for them!

tooth

2007-10-25T20:17:00.000-04:00

Isaiah gave me a scare today. He and Gracie got wild and running around the bedroom when daddy came home for lunch. They bumped head to mouth. His mouth to her head.
His front tooth started to bleed a little around the gum and Chris said it was a little loose.
I called the pediatric dentist in town and they suggested I bring him in. I had to leave to go babysit for a friend so Chris ran him over for an exam and an x-ray. Thankfully everything looked ok. Didn't appear to be any damage. They did tell us to keep an eye on it for any color changes and to let him eat softer foods for about a week.
I steamed broccoli tonight, which was super soft but he didn't like that a bit. Gracie on the other hand ate it for some reason.....and liked it!
He did like the popsicle just fine though.

Speaking of teeth, I get to go to the dentist again tomorrow for another filling! I was supposed to go last Friday, but his wife decided to have her baby. I think after this one I only have one more to get filled!!

P-O-T-T-Y TIME!

2007-10-22T15:11:00.000-04:00

Last Wednesday Isaiah decided he wanted to use the potty all on his own. He came to me after he took a shower and said "I need to go potty" I was thrilled. I got the step stool for him and let him do his thing. He was so excited watching his "pee water" come out! Since Wednesday, I think we've had an accident each day but that's to be expected. I've been very brave and only put a diaper on him at night. We go out with big boy underwear on. He's peed all over himself twice at church now. But it's a lesson learned for him!! I've learned to carry extra socks, pants and a plastic bag in case of an accident.

The funniest story so far is when Isaiah got confused because the toilet seat was up (daddy didn't put it back down grr). He sat down on the toilet, minus the seat, and it about caused him to fall in. He got so caught up in the moment that he forgot to pull his underwear down. I heard him yell, "mommy, I peed in my underwear!" I got into the bathroom and he was hanging onto the toilet for dear life with his underwear still up around his waist....soaked! That one doesn't count as an accident because it wasn't his fault.

As for my hand, it's coming along. I still keep it wrapped up in order to keep it from busting open.

cuttin' it up

2007-10-19T14:32:00.000-04:00

Today while washing dishes I cut the back of my thumb pretty deep on a glass. It hurts a bit but I refuse to go to the doctor for fear of stitches. It kinda lays open but is trying to close as long as I don't move or bend it. So I've got my thumb taped to the side of my hand so that I won't move it. It tends to bleed if I move it too much because the cut runs over the back knuckle. So, I'm sitting back letting Chris do my chores and all. I think he's gonna have to take us out to dinner tonite because I simply can't cook a good meal like this.