Gone Away...

Well Its been AGES since I've posted on this blog!! Normally I post at myPhotography BLOG. You can follow me over there.... I'll just be posting small moments here and there. Forgive me oh faithful bloggers... I've been bad!

Here I'll leave you with a picture and maybe that will make up for my horrible ways??



Jeffrey is a part of IMPACT now. An ensemble from the University of Mobile that travels around to Churches or Worship Events and leads worship. They also are the first to have a set of Spanish songs! They are amazing and if you know of a church or an event that needs a great godly group to lead worship let me know!! :)

Trip Home

I'm home for just a second in the great state of Georgia. Here are some highlights so far on my trip...

*Listening to the sound of my young brothers, reminded me how much I miss their struggle to fall asleep at night. "Hence, my struggle to fall asleep".
*Great breakfast, with a great friend and topped off with great food.
*Parking far away from Wal-mart, only then having to run all the way to my car in the heavy rain.
*Shopping at Michael's with my Mommy.
*Watching "The Office" with my Dad.
*Helping my baby brother Garrett clean his bloody nose.

Promise I will catch up on Blogging when I get back to Alabama.

Home

I know its been forever since I've posted a blog. I am extremely busy but I wanted to share my new photography website!! I'm back in Georgia at least once a month so please contact me if your interested in booking a shoot! Home

Twenty 2

Twenty*Two.
My baby brother and I share the same birthday. When I was twelve, I didn't realize how awesome it would be to share my birthday with a baby brother. Garrett is my birthday brother. Griffin(11) is my 1st brother. Its just the way things are. Garrett called yesterday from Mom’s cell to tell me he had turned 10 and that he’d let me know when I’d turned 22 because I was still 21. He explained that it was because of the times we were born. I laughed. They are so funny. 11 and 10 now are the ages of my brothers. Wow does time fly? This was the first birthday we spent apart and I can tell you, I hope it’s the last. I did not enjoy being away from him. Missed you bud! (Of course I miss you too, Griffin.)


My Birthday DAY. Jeff and I.. (cell phone picture.. don't judge)



Jeff knows me. He really knows me. He has learned that my absolute biggest “want” on any occasion is a Card. And if ever there was a man who picked out the World’s Best Cards, it’d be my husband. Seriously, he must spend hours in front of the wall of cards, reading each one until the words were meant for the occasion. It brought tears to my eyes early yesterday morning. Here’s what the front of the card said…

Although, I can't give you everything you deserve or understand you perfectly at all times, I can Promise,I will LOVE you always and be thankful for the beauty of just sharing LIFE with you...

Jeff-Life with you, is more than I deserve. I love you, always and forever.


We had a great day of enjoying each others company and driving to Florida for a few hours in the sun with my great friend Meagan and her family. It was my first “grown up” birthday all on my own, in the real world. Mom, Dad, Thank you for making my birthday’s so great. I missed you guys.

4th!

We had a great week with the boys here. Thursday Night we went to see ICE AGE. WOW. You have to go and see it. Its so funny. Really it is. I promise! I SWEAR!

Friday we got up went to breakfast and made the "journey" to the beach. My dad didn't like how long it took us to get there so we had plenty of laughing moments along the way. It was a beautiful day. Not too hot. The water was perfect. You could even see the fish in every wave. The only "lucky" sunkissed family member was my dad believe it or not. Normally he never burns but I guess his farmers tan just couldn't take the HEAT! We ate dinner at CATFISH Junction then called it a night after playing a new WII game.

Saturday we spent relaxing and we swam at the pool for a little bit. Then we decided last minute to go down to the BAY to watch the fireworks. I think its an amazing time to remember why we celebrate freedom. How lucky are we that we can still celebrate FREEDOM?! Amazing. I don't even like to talk about what happened after the fireworks. It was a horrible experience no one wants to relive.

TRAFFIC.

and not just your normal "after an event" traffic. The kind where TWO cops are in the middle of the road blocking a major US HIGHWAY to let a "paid" parking lot out for over 45 minutes. Lets just say the humor started with the Orchestrated Car Horns, the yelling men and the fact that a Walmart SEMI pulled up on the EAST bound side (We were headed West) and Started revving her engine and yelling out the window. After threats of being thrown into prison she stopped. It was very funny and very sad all at the same time. OH well.


My family was able to stay till Sunday afternoon so they got to hear Jeffrey lead worship which of course was nice and we got a nice updated picture! Thanks to the Pastors wife Tammie! HERE IT IS! I hope you had a good 4th!!

P.S. AMY I MISS YOU!

Family

So I drove home for a quick photoshoot with David and Sara this weekend. I decided to bring my brothers back with me. Jeffrey doesn't have anything that takes up his days yet so I thought I'd be fun for the boys and a nice little vacation for my Mom and Dad. So although I have been working during the days, its been really nice coming home to something that I'm use too. My brothers. I love them. I can't wait for Jeffrey's brothers and sisters to get to visit later this summer. But its been really nice. We are waiting mom and dad's arrival on Thursday night. We plan on a trip to the beach on Friday and we haven't decided what to do on the 4th.Check out the pictures I took on Saturday at my Photography Blog.
and here are some pictures from Monday Night Bowling with my brothers....

Boom Boom Pow...

This week has been VBS at our Church here in Mobile. Jeffrey has been doing the missions and music part at night. So I've been spending quality time alone! Its bittersweet for me because its much needed time alone but I miss my hubby!! We went to see Transformers this week *the post below this one* and I'm just now starting to feel more in control of my "tiredness". I'll be driving home tomorrow to have a weekend of photo editing and shooting! I'm excited but be praying that I don't fall asleep. I think my trip with Amy from TX back home gives me hope that I can make it! If I can drive at 1 a.m. I can drive tomorrow afternoon!!

Anyways.. I'll try to come up with more exciting things to blog about but this week has been low key. Oh I'm dying to find some good boots.. yes... flats.. no heels.. good "flat boots"!! :)

bad idea?

Only tomorrow will tell if tonight is a bad idea. Midnight Movie? Work at 8 a.m.? This has all the ingredients of a bad idea but maybe just maybe it will turn out to be a good memory! Crazy times are always good for memories.. sometimes they aren't great ones though! Oh well! Jeffrey is at VBS and I am about to nap because my sleep has become more and more of a need. Since I've started working full time again I have realized my lack of sleep was for my "teenage" body. Now that I'm inching closer to 22 my body is telling me.. OH NO YOU DON'T! Don't worry I'm not complaining about my age. Just stating that I'm feeling "changes". Also whats up with the fact that I can't eat whatever I want and not gain a pound?! Now I feel as though tonight will definitely be a bad idea because I'm going to need a large soda to keep me awake through the movie!!

Anyways, I'm off to go take a nap. Yes a Nap. Before I leave in 2 hours for a move that won't start until 12 a.m. o0o0 boy! Yippie! But I am coming home this weekend and I can't wait to see my family and DUKE!!! Which by the way... I'm wanting a dog really bad. I know that I will struggle on the drive by myself but it will be worth it! I'm sure. Much L-O-V-E!

Happy Fathers Day!!!

Happy Faja's Day!!! LOVE YOU! MISS YOU!!

FRY-day.

Ok, so its official as much as I hate the gym... The Gym and I met last night in my living room floor. OH and My 3 egg whites and toast for breakfast.. nearly had me dead within my first hour awake this morning. But, it will be worth it. I HOPE! I did 100 abs last night and I felt the burn. Although it was only 5 minutes so I really can't complain. Jeffrey and I just sat around last night and hit the hay early. What great fun we are! Tonight hopefully we will be headed out for a date!! :) This week has been a pretty lax week to be honest. Not a whole lot going on. I am depressed that mi familia isn't coming in to town this weekend. I'm going home next weekend and I am bringing back Griffin and Garrett with me on Sunday and my parents will come on Thursday night to start our 4th of July celebration!! Woop Woop! Ok I am headed off to work. Nothing exciting to share. Except for keep your eyes open for my new photography website.. Its coming soon!!!! :)

what what what...

Dancing around in the living room is exercise right?!

I heard a joke at work a week or so ago....

How do you wake Lady Ga-Ga???



Poke Poke Poker Her Face!!! hahaha

SO great! I'm dancing to this song right now and I'm enjoying it. I really am! Better than if I was at the gym.... Speaking of the Gym... I hate those places. Seriously I think they are depressing they just make you realize how far from your goal you are. New rule.. I will step back into the gym once I'm the weight I want to be! :) Ha! Also when I look like Megan Fox then I will 1st- be dreaming and 2nd- be making a lot of money to look like that!!!!

Poker Poker Paaaaa Paaaa Poker face!

Rise and Shine!!!

Another Saturday Another Beach Day!! I'm starting to get ready and waiting for Jeffrey to get up and moving. We are headed to Gulf Shores this morning and then we are heading over to ORANGE BEACH! To see our Youth Group for our church back home! How awesome?! Jeffrey is so thrilled to get to spend some time with the kids! I am too but Jeffrey doesn't get excited about very much lol.

James and Jonathan got here on Thursday night and its been none stop laughs. Jeffrey went and stayed with them at the hotel on Thursday and I am pretty sure there was not a lot of sleeping going on. They went to the beach while I worked. :( bummer. Oh well. We took them to Catfish Junction last night and made them try fried pickles lol. SO funny.

I'm so thrilled to be on this journey with Jeffrey and I feel like over the next few weeks we are really going to work on some US time. Not getting caught up with plans or anything like that. Before school starts we just want to spend some TIME together. Oh this time next week. My family will be here and we'll be headed to the beach! Ugh HOW I love this life! OHHHHHHHH can't wait for transformers!!!! HOLLA!!!

Ready Set....

Two Years of marriage was officially yesterday. I woke up with this strange feeling. Like, WOAH has it really been two years?! As I was getting ready for work I decided to send Jeffrey a "Facebook" message. I know what has the world turned into?! But I shared the normal things that you do on an anniversary. I was a tiny bit surprised to check my facebook at work and have a message back from him. I started to cry at work! Jeffrey is a sweet guy don't get me wrong but he is not a VOCAL person by any means. So I cherished his words and they will forever be by my heart. I also took the time to look through our wedding pictures and discover how much we've changed. For the good, I think. :)

Just a thought with the way Love goes. We love, We lose, We love. Just like God. He loves, He loses us, He loves us again. Jeffrey and I made a promises to each other on our wedding day that we hold close to our hearts. I'm thankful for everyone that was with us on that day.. and I can only wish that some of my friends that I now know where there as well... which leads me to a prayer request I have...

Be praying for MY AMY as tomorrow she is having surgery. I can't type much about it because I get all teary. Stupid. Tears. Charlie. I'm going to write my prayer on here for you in case I don't get to talk to you.... Don't SKIP over it!


God-I want to lift Amy Walker up into your comforting spirit and since you are the master healer I pray that you are the Dr's and Nurses Hands and Eyes tomorrow. I know that you have a perfect plan for her. But you know my personal request for her life God. I want that more than anything and I just wanted to let you know that I am truly thankful for the way you placed us together at just the right time. You know what time I wouldn't have made it through with out her. And for that I am great-ful to you. Please soothe her nerves and please make it known that your hands and heart are at work. We love you and we praise your name. ALWAYS. <3



Amy,I know you hate when I do this.But I want you to know that you are in my heart more than you know. And your desires are my desires for you more than you can imagine. You are truly a best friend. I'm thankful for knowing what God has already done in your life and I'm hopeful for whats to come.I love you, Charlie. Truly I do.

Green Lights..

Well Today was the first official day of Jeffrey Henderson leading worship as the worship director at Tibbie Baptist. He did great of course. The band is great and I think they are starting to really get into the swing of things. After the service was over I think I put on a good 20 pounds with some Southern Cookin' and man oh man was it gooooood cookin'!!! The Youth are made up of some great core kids that I've meet the last 2 Sunday's they asked us to join them for bowling this afternoon and since we didn't have night church we decided to do that. Jeff of course won.. like always. But we enjoyed our time!! My thumb is killing me!! :(

We called it quits after laughing and after some girl chat about "Twilight". On the road home we stopped at a red light. Well we realized that our side wasn't turning green. In true fashion I wasn't paying attention bc Jeff was driving. Then it happened again. Jeff started creeping forward and I glanced up to Yell,

Me: "The light is STILL RED!"
Jeff: "I know this guy behind me is freaking out! Telling me to go"
Me: "Well don't listen to him"
Jeff: "Thank you, Jessica. Now the guy is banging his head on the steering wheel in frustration that I'm not going... this is funny"
Me: "Great"
*At this time we see a green arrow on our side... however we are not turning. The guy behind us swerves around us in a mad hurry and blows past us. The next car pulls up behind us and its the youth and Kristen and Brent (adults driving). They wave Jeff ahead. He carefully looks and decides to go while no cars are turning.
*Jeffs Phone Rings its Brent*

Jeff: "I don't know about here but in Georgia our lights turn green!"


hahaha I thought it was great but so true! I mean really people?!



Anyways we had a blast and now I'm ready to call it a day. I'm so stinkin' tired. Oh well.

Reading Reading Reading...

I need more books. Lately I've tried to lose my self in romance novels, thrillers.. you name it. I used to hate reading! I mean it. Like really hate it. I think even now I've only read around 10 novels. House, Captivating, In the Blink of an Eye, The Shack, Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse,Breaking Dawn, Germ, A ring and A promise.... Now I'm trying to decide whats next. Do I want to go the Harry Potter route? or Eragon? I can only read fiction novels.. I'm sure I need to read self help but.. I just love a good book that I can get lost in. I really do. My creative mind just TAKES off.
Just like a good movie that I'm captivated by! It really stinks not having money for movies and such.. but I will survive. Jeffrey and I are dying to see UP. We've heard great things about it and Hello! if you've seen the previews who doesn't want to see that bird!?!?!?

This wonderful Saturday morning has me re-reading a book while Jeffrey is sound asleep. He said something about cleaning today! GROSS! I'm really not looking forward to that. Oh well. What can I do? I'm trying to get a new website up and running so I can really start booking people in Mobile. I'm having a little bit of a hard time convincing Jeffrey that I need to spend the money. But there are a lot of things I need to spend the money on with my photography business and its just killing me! Computer, New Camera, New Lens... etc etc.

On another note.. Yesterday I booked a flight to Ft.Lauderdale for one of my life long best friend's wedding. Then we ran to David's Bridal and I ordered my bridesmaid dress.... its a beautiful halter plum dress that stops right around the knees for me. I'm already obsessing about my hair. Saving money is a huge deal right now and I'm trying to figure out.. Would long hair look better in a wedding OUTside in FL or short?!?!

Marco....

POLO! Well I'm about to head to work so this may or may not be a short post. Jeffrey got the job with the church! So we are praising God that we will be able to eat this month! I'm so proud of him but I'm also so excited for him to be in a church where he can use his talents to serve God!

Wednesdays have a small habit forming at 7 o clock my time. I get a phone call from someone at my parents house. Wipeout is ABC's great great great show! Its basically a chance to watch America's Funniest Home Videos in an ACTION PACKED obstacle course. I normally spend the hour waiting for a phone call so I know its back on and then we laugh over the phone together. I know it is kind of cheesey but I feel in a strange way like I'm home. But then again.. my family does have a sick humor. ;)

Tuesday... was just a work day. Nothing major to blog about really.

Monday... same I'm thinking. Except Jeffrey forced me to go to the grocery store with him. Not lovin' him for that. I've determined there is nothing I hate more than spending money at walmart. I'm just being honest folks. Hard earned money spent in 1 hour of stress navigating through tight spots, trying not to run into people, RUDE people... don't even get me started on the parking lot!! OH well. It has to be done. Maybe one day when.. I have oodles of money.. I'll pay someone to grocery shop for me??

Sunday was spent at the church Jeffrey now works at. We stayed after the service for a great lunch! Talk about good food.. mmmmmMMMMmmm. Nothing better than that Baptist Cookin'!


P.S. Dad its about time you started paying attention to my blog..... and here are some pictures.. because every post is better with pictures!!! My moms pretty flowers and our group picture before Jeffrey and I left on Memorial Day.

We live by the beach???

YES! We do! Let me say it one more time... WE LIVE BY THE BEACH! The greatness is waking up on Saturday mornings.. not having anything planned other than going to the beach! Jeffrey and I took our sweet time Saturday morning getting ready then we went to pick up Meredith and Colby. Had some Chickfila and then we hit the sand. Here is picture number one!!!!


I love it. I know I'm bragging a little but its just so exciting! We went to eat at Catfish Junction on Saturday night after helping Colby at the driving range. I wanted to take a picture but left my camera :(. I did eat these for the first time though. (picture by google)

Fried Pickles!!! I LOVED THEM. I know if you haven't ever tried them they can be scary. But give them a chance they were amazing!

Ok well I'm a twilight junky so I'm stoked to say I finally got Meredith to watch it. I can't wait for the MTV awards so I can see the preview thats supposed to be on there for the second movie NEW MOON! HIP HIP HOORAY!

Had to share...

OK I know I moved to South Alabama... Click and Watch this... Its for real...

PLEASE WATCH

then I wonder to myself... REALLY People?! REALLY?! Enjoy your day. "Don't Be Afraid"

Home again Home again

Jigity Jog...

Friday we took off as fast as we could to get home before dark. We failed. But it was a great drive and we made it in time to go to McDonalds with Kevin and Meagan. We were able to catch up and drive them home lol.

Saturday morning started off with a rainy photoshoot that turned out awesome! We had a blast and managed not to get drenched. Jeffrey and I then headed to watch good ole' baseball games!! Its official one day when I am hopefully a parent, I will be thrown out of a baseball game. I'm claiming it here. I've already made my piece with it and I know that my mouth (and competitiveness) will eventually get me booted. Oh well. I just get so strung up and start yelling and the next thing I know.. I'm being rude! Oh *GASP* what a shock I know I know! :)

Later that night Jeffrey dropped me off after my second photoshoot to eat dinner with my familia while he went to visit his pops. We had great food and of course laughter at Longhorns... We then packed into the car and headed home when I suddenly started to feel really funny around my mouth.. kind of tired but kind of numb. I was having a really hard time keeping my eyes open. Feeling like I could possibly drool at any given moment, I started to rack my brain for another reason for this feeling besides sleeplessness. *ah ha!* It was then that I remembered right before leaving my second shoot I took a benadryl. Well there you have it folks those kick in after a little bit of time. Luckily I wasn't driving and I made it to bed safely!!


Sunday Morning... BASEBALL. I know it would normally be church but since I was so limited on time with my family, I went with them to the fields to watch Garrett's game. After they loss :( Jeff and I headed to Ak's where we had a blast with all our buddies playing the animal game and catch phrase.... (both of which I hate to lose). Sunday wrapped up with us just sitting at the house and me working on pictures.

Last... Monday (today) I woke up and died my hair black! mmmmmm I love it! Then we headed to the movies! After that Mom and I took our sweet time at Belk's while Jeff loaded up the car for our trip home. I ended up putting two amazing dresses back.. they were NOT needs.. just major wants! The greatest part was when Mom and I decided to go through Taco Bell. Half way through the order my mom says, "and I'll get a dr.pepper with that" Taco Bell Lady, " MA'AM! That does NOT come with a drink" My Mom, "Well I'm terribly sorry, could I get a drink?" Ha. It would have been funnier if you were there...... trust me.


p.s. AMY, the next time I come home... drop everything for a moment with me! :) Also... pictures will be coming soon.

Arts and Craft Time!

Something I love dearly... Arts and Crafts. I have a great friend Meredith over here who is super talented and is inspiring as well. She has been helping me get my groove on with some canvas arts and crafts.. She is pretty advanced.. she's onto cork boards and such ahaha. Anyways.. I made this and finished it all tonight.. wanted to share it before I go to bed.. which I'm late doing... so here it is! LOVE.. do you love?


Button Words... Sea Shell Flowers?? I think so. oh and toss a little ribbon in there.. with some splatter paint. Yes Please

Burnt Knees?!

This weekend was busy..really busy. It all started on Friday when Andy and Amanda met for the first time and drove to meet us at the School. Jeffrey was up at the school playing the piano and practicing for Sunday morning. We got to the house, ate and played the Wii. Unfortunately for Amanda it wasn't her night. She lost everything we played. EVERYTHING. Andy also stole a star from her during one of the games... she never let that go. Saturday morning we slept in a little and took our time getting to the beach.

Andy and I decided we should detour to get us to the beach faster.... BAD idea. 45 minutes later we are in massive need of a gas station and the corn field beaches dont have great places to lay out on.. We finally made it to the beach where Amanda and I took our sweet time reading.. walking.. and picking up sea shells. Which I'm thinking I want to make a project out of them... we'll see.

After spending all afternoon at the beach we headed back for taco's at the house we hung out with Meredith and Colby then headed to Marble Slab where we witnessed the LONGEST line in the world. Seriously. Waited probably fifteen to twenty minutes.. but man was it good. I didn't take any pictures this weekend because I'm a loser. But I'll leave you with this...

Jeffrey and I have been watching alot of CMT lately... They have great shows.. and they play ABC's Extreme Home Makeover all the time. Well tonight after I got home.. I wanted to watch it.. SO I ASK (yes i asked nicely) Jeff pretended not to hear me.. so then.. I told.. ( I know I know) then I yelled. :) because I'm sweet like that. He was laughing at this point.. he turns around and goes "What are you cooking me for dinner?" So he turns the station.. I curl up on the couch and say, " I want to upgrade on my husband" with out missing a beat he says,"you can't upgrade when you have the best model"....
LAME JEFF LAME. :)

Wednesday!

Half way through another week! Crazy if you ask me. You know how sometimes weeks fly by while others seem like they'll never make it to Friday?! This week has literally blinked and WAM! its Wednesday. Jeffrey had another great meeting with the Pastor of Tibbie and will lead this Sunday at their church. Then we'll be home for Memorial Day Weekend, Garrett and Jake are playing in a BIG wooden bat tournament. The following Sunday, Jeffrey will lead again then sit in front of the "board". I'd be lying if I said I wasn't excited. If you want my opinion any church would be BLESSED beyond words to have Jeffrey lead their worship. He has this "way" of truly worshiping no matter whats going on in his world at that very day. He walks right up and takes anyone who wants to go worship with him straight to the Throne of God. *swoon*

On another note... OUR cable is out. Seriously. We've had it all of what.. 5 days? Comcast is having some kind of MAJOR problem in the Mobile Area. Of course. Is what I say. Why wouldn't they? On the night that I wanted to come home and just veg. out. OH well.

Our 2 year anniversary is fast approaching and since I don't believe we'll have the $$ for me to be receiving a blue box from Tiffany's. I'm trying to think of the small things I want. I need you to give me small ideas for Jeffrey.. I have a few.. but give me your thoughts..


Here are my choices... :). I have a pandora charm bracelet that I LOVE but its in need of more charms.

1st. Suitcase... because of our big travels we just made.

2nd. Pineapple.. because it stands for friendship.. and I don't know of any of my other friends that will drop 25 bucks for a silver charm haha and I want it!

3rd. Safety Chain.. its pretty.

4th. This one should be higher up on the list. But its because we are here for Jeff's music which is very important!!



Happy Hump Day!

Tiny...

We made a last minute decision to drive home on Friday night to see our Mom's and then turn around and drive home on Sunday morning. (we are mostly on the road right now) I got to sneak in a little Amy time which was amazing. Sorry you had to try something new at Chinese. lol.
We spent Saturday at the baseball fields and then Saturday night with family. We laugh more than any family on earth I'd bet. Do you find your family to be funny?? Seriously I think we have a problem. All we do is crack up the entire time we are together. About everything. Anyways...
Sunday morning we enjoyed a good ole Ihop breakfast and now we are loading up the last of our stuff and headed back to Mobile. Here we are this morning.... I promise I'll post pictures of the apartment soon. I left my usb cord and home... so my mom mailed it not knowing I'd be here... Oh well.

Update! Pictures!!

Ok, there not the pictures of the apartment. But they are of a few creations I have made over the last month. I'll start with my kitchen benches that Amy and I made. They were plain wooden benches that we recovered with a great black fabric!! :) I'm so proud and Oh was it a great day for hand blisters!!!

Sorry this is a little dark.. no photoshop done.. too tired tonight lol





And the finished project. This is only one of the two that we did!!! :)



Homemade Strawberry Tarts that I've started to perfect!! :) Hooray!!




Ok and the final one.. is a last minute picture from last Saturday's moving group after a hard day of unpacking. I forgot to snap one of Friday's moving group :( but we'll have lots of people vacationing to see us, so I'll make sure to get those!!!



I'll be posting soon! I promise.

No INtranet!

OK so we had our hopes WAY up that we'd be getting internet on Tuesday. Because lets be honest. I'm dying without it! But thanks the LORD for Moka's! Its a great coffee shop right by our house that makes the WORLDS best Chai Latte! (Amy I had another one and I think its making a run for the Memphis One!!)

Work is awesome. God is so great and I'm loving every day thus far and I have no complaints! Jeff went on an interview today and it went well and he has another one tomorrow. Just be praying for God's perfect place to be revealed to us.

I'm missing my family and friends big time. But God's given me a great joy about being in Mobile. Its like the whole world is at our finger tips. Lets just say we are on the UP of our life's roller coaster. So I am choosing to enjoy it with my arms raised high and shouting praises the whole time! Having our own place is great. (Mom, I love your place too. But its nice to be QUEEN!! haha) We've cooked every night and I'm getting really good at these strawberry tarts. HOME MADE!!!! HOLLA!! So with that being said I'm sitting here at Moka's ordering pictures to put in our Picture Frames and I'm having a hard time choosing. Don't be offended if you come to visit and there isn't a picture of you in our house. I promise.. I'm trying to include everyone!! :) GOTTA RUN... catch up soon!!!

New Home.. Sweet.... Apartment

We've made it. Its official we have our own, old, two bedroom apartment in Saraland, AL. I start work on Monday so we are full speed trying to get everything put away! I've made my first trip to Walmart collecting small items to eat. Boy, howdy, its pricey!!! But we'll make it work. Mac & Cheese, Frozen Pizza's... etc. Sorry this is so short but I'm going to try and post pictures later tonight. Funny story quick before I go..

My Mom, Dad, Jeffrey and I are in Walmart...

Mom has been complaining about the breakfast we had at Waffelhouse, upsetting her stomach. We walk down the cleaner isle and my dad grabs his stomach and says...

"Oh, that Wafflehouse gave me gonorrhea!"

He looks at me and grins. "Gonorrhea?" I ask. My dad replies, "Yeah, Gonorrhea." Me- "How did you get gonorrhea from breakfast?" Dad- "The waitress touched my food I think"



Out of control, Dad.

Let the good times...

I would say roll but I'm not too sure if I want them to roll forward or roll backwards. Don't get me wrong I am way beyond excited about the new steps Jeffrey and I are taking but after the last few days of "unsaid" goodbyes, its all starting to catch up with me. Hear I am at 1 a.m. in the morning thinking about all the times I should have told someone how much they meant to me. But when does that really matter? When you or they are gone. Why do we wait until the last minute? Whats the point of my crazy random breakdowns lately? I'm here, surrounded by the best people thus far in my life and I'm leaving. God has a unique plan prepared for us but its hard to sometimes not think... What is going on?! For those of you who are reading thinking... wow I love me some Jessica.. just know if we are friends... I love you too. Really I do. People laugh and joke about how many "best" friends I have. But one thing I know for sure is that each person has a unique place in my life that I would never want anyone else to replace.


Amy Walker, I know you read this and hear it goes. My public shout out to you as a friend. I have NO clue what I'm going to do with out. I really don't. I'm thinking about the next few days to come.. and wondering, why you couldn't move to Mobile with me :). You have been the breath of fresh air in my life who has learned more about who I am in the shortest amount of time. We joke that we are def the same, but we both know its true. Your just as bad with goodbyes as I am. Thats why we haven't had ours. And we won't. But I want you to know that you are loved, by me. Your crazy, little, young (haha) friend. Charlie, your the best. really. u are. I will continue to be the one who calls and calls and calls until you tell me that you'll call me back.. because well quite frankly I don't want anyone else to do it! Tell MY cooper everyday that I love her.. and give Tucker a funny look from me to let him know I wished he loved me more. . . and there you go folks.. thats my goodbye.

To My Parents,

This has to be short or I'll be up all night crying. I can't imagine a better set to raise me. I really can't. And I know I'll be just fine because you guys have been such a great example its not even funny. We may not be rich, but we are rich in the things that matter. Mom, thank you. Dad, thank you. I love you guys both and I am blessed to call you mine.

Brothers,

LOVE YOU!!!!! Don't grow up too fast! I am depressed at how much I'm going to miss in ya'lls life by being farther away but I am so excited to hear all about it!!!! Good thing for the phones and the computers huh? I love you both. Garrett, Hit that ball hard for me! Griffin, focus and do the best you can everyday in Karate make me proud a do a tournament!

To my other friends (don't know if you read this or not)

I love each and everyone of you. I'm excited to see the constant changes God preforms in your life. Embrace the change. Because you never know when your blessing are right around the corners. Follow God, at all costs. Find yourself. But in Christ. I love you.




Ok, Enough. Really?! Yes. I swear. I'm tired.. and sad. and SO EXCITED! I'll be posting before pictures and after pictures of the apartment and the moving process. TTYL.

Here we go!!!

The countdown is T-Minus 1 day and a few hours! This week I've done ALOT and the time is still too short. I'll be posting pictures of the awesome benches Amy and I recovered. And some Braves Game pictures from the game I went to tonight with my Mom,Dad and brother, Garrett. Just wanted to drop in and update on the fact that our address will be changing very soon!


Exciting, Scary, Overwhelming all wrapped into one life burrito. It seems some one accidentally gave me a LARGE burrito when I ordered a Kids size. But then again.. thats life. Always seems to be more than we can chew. God has our backs and fills us up with more than we think we can handle and then He is God and shows us that in fact we can accomplish great things. Satan happens to be the one that questions us... Can we really do this? Are you sure? Then we get the breeze of doubt that pushes us farther away from God. The next thing we know we are drowning in our problems rather than taking the life vest God has for us. Whatever it is your going through just remember.. God is there and HE is all POWERFUL and ALL knowing and HE always, always loves us.. no matter what the Devil would want us to believe.



God, Thank you for always providing. Thank you for being my God that I can know is REAL. You amaze me on a daily basis, but God most importantly I'm praying for the miracles that some are waiting for and for those who don't believe so that they may believe. Or those who have lost faith, like I have in the past God. Give them their "I'm here". I love you.


I'll be posting soon.. I promise.

ahhh!

Ok so I have to get better about blogging because we are getting ready to move and
Amy is going to want to know everything about my days!!! I can't begin to even tell you what our next few weeks are going to look like. We are taking a last minute trip over there this weekend to hopefully secure a place to live. We have one option but my spirit just isn't at Peace. So with that being said this weekend is already packed..

Griffin (my oldest younger brother) turns 11 tomorrow! 11!! It feels like just a year ago he was 3 running around in Buzz Lightyear Undies. I'm so excited to see how God molds and shapes him into a young man. Happy Birthday, Griffin! Sissy is so proud of you and LOVES you very much!!

We are going to go see Hannah Montana tomorrow as his birthday present. What can we say.. we think the show is funny and one day it will be great blackmail! :) hehe. Then we are going to watch Garrett's baseball game.. Then have Cake and Ice Cream! woo ray!

Jeffrey's Uncle Billy's 50th Birthday was this past weekend and I photographed the party.. here's a lil shot of us in the midst of the party!




Please be praying for us, as we seek God's guidance on a place to call home!

Struggle.. oh boy thats a new one..

Gee Wiz guys. As if life wasn't changing enough. There are alot of things that for personal reasons I'm not going to share on here but just lift me and my family up in your prayers. That pretty much sums it up. I'm not angry.. just sad/upset. But what can you do? Pray. Amy's Blog tonight pretty much hit home as I was reading it. So that is what I'm going to do. Thanks Amy. It was much needed and uplifting.


Side note.

Garrett pitched the last inning of his baseball game tonight. I'm impressed. No seriously I am. He throws hard and he keeps improving on his aim. He continues to move around the bases faster and smarter. I can't believe this is just 9/10 ball. Just wait till his is in the major league!

Griffin had a pretty big deal this last Saturday at McIntosh highschool and got his new Red/Blue belt. I think we figured out that next year he'll start testing for his brown belts (different levels) and then by the time he is 13 he'll be a black belt. He is so talented and is totally in his "zone". He wants to own a Karate studio when he gets older and those kids will seriously be lucky to learn from him!

I love you, Griffin. I love you, Garrett. I'm so proud of the young men your becoming and how talented you already are. Keep shinning for Jesus and He will always light your path.

loving love

Well in the past week God has done some pretty flipping awesome stuff in our lives. We are moving to AL May 1st. Its official. I have a job that I'm going to love with my whole heart and its going to provide alot for our lives. Jeffrey will be able to pursue school for what God has called him to be. I couldn't be more excited. But I'm not going to lie its overwhelming. Its a new step in our lives, another blind turn we are making but its never been so right. My selfish, hates change but with my new out look on self-less-ness I'm excited. AMY knows that I AM NOT EXCITED to leave her. I wish more than anything God would allow us to stay super close. I hope she isn't going to break up with me when I move. Long distance doesn't always work for her. But she doesn't realize how different I am. Or maybe she has... if she has then I'll totally expect a break up! :) JK girl JK. Love yah! Mean it! Anyways, now we are just preparing ourselves for one of the biggest moves of our live. One that will forever change our course, One that I'll be making with the best man alive, My Husband. Its going to be great.

On a different note, those of you who have seen Twilight will love this. I was in a hair show on Tuesday for one of my BFF's who is in a hair school up in Northern Atlantaish. The groups theme I was in, Twilight. I, Bella, had some great people to walk down the runway with so I can't complain at all! Here are just a few pictures from that day. It was truly a blast, once it all started and we didn't have to sit any longer! Enjoy it. I need to go edit for Jessica Lee Photography!

Little Brother

I have two little brothers, Griffin and Garrett. Garrett is 9 and plays baseball. Griffin is almost 11 and is in Karate. Griffin finally entered his first tournament and can I just say I was impressed. Out of 7 kids doing their "form universals" Griffin was awarded 2nd place. Pretty awesome if you ask me! He also received 1st place in the team event. Although he noticed they were the only team entered... :). Here are just a few pictures from the day.

Excited.

I've been a lil mia I know I know. But a LOT has been going on. I'm so extremely excited and nervous and excited and excited. Have I said I'm excited yet? I've been working on my photography website trying to get it all prepared and up and some what functioning. I'm hoping that everything will be all together for our move to AL. I can't remember right now.. since its 1a.m. if I've "officially" shared that on THE BLOG or not. But we will be moving for Jeffrey to attend school which we are so excited about. God continues to work His blessing in our lives and I am giving the glory back to Him. For without Him nothing would be possible. Jeffrey is really my rock, a really good looking rock, and I'm so thrilled to be a tiny family with him. I know my blog below was about how much I'd miss everyone.. especially Amy, but I've got to turn this wandering boat around and start heading in the positive direction God wants me to be in. I'm extremely sad that I just can't take Amy with me. You know like put her in my pocket and take her out at lunch time and dinner time and play games? :). But seriously, this week is it. The week for positive attitudes and less stress. Because lets me honest, we all need weeks like that. This is what I bought from Bath&BodyWorks for a little extra help!!!

God is good all the time, All the time God is good. Oh, and I'm going to miss Amy.

I'm finding as I get older how many statements I heard over and over are now starting to be "realized". Our flood has left the carpet in my closet smelling.. NICE. The flood tried to come back again last night. But we didn't allow it. We sucked it up with the wet vac in the corner where it was leaking in. The weather quickly dropped so the wetlands froze. Praise the Lord!
I've been in a serious funk lately. Not working full time and feeling like I'm not doing a good job at being a wife has left me seriously, slightly mental. Jeffrey is my rock and he continues to tell me that God has His plan and that soon the next part of His plan for us is going to come into focus. I've been studying Ruth on Friday mornings with an awesome group of ladies. Finding out what the Bible really intended for God to be as a REDEEMER. Amazing. These last few weeks God has opened up my eyes to His perfect love for me. He has provided me with one of the best friends who is really like a twin sister, Amy. She and I try to get together at least twice a week to work out. Jeffrey has been accepted to school and will start this fall. Which means its getting close to moving time. It makes me realize how much I'm going to miss people. Family, Friends, our church and AMY! I'm totally bumming myself out thinking about the fact that we aren't going to just be able to meet up whenever. So I need to stop. For real? I mean its going to suck. I'm going to miss all of my friends, I promise. I may miss Amy a little more. Sorry. (Reason : We spend the most time together.) Doesn't mean all my friends aren't loved the same. lol. So anyways, now that I've bummed myself out. I'm totally excited about some news Jeffrey and I received this past weekend but I'm not going to share it yet. (No baby so don't even bring it up) We are just praying and seeking the Lord for what is right in His plan for us. Keep us in your prayers as our life journey is quickly changing and continues its exciting course. So this post is dedicated to rambling about missing Amy and God being good all the time to me. :) Peace out my loves!

welll...

The Light didn't exactly come in the form I was hoping this morning when I woke up to my dad saying "time to wake up"... "there is water in here". To which I sat straight up leaned over to my left... My BOOKS (you know which ones) ruined. There is standing water in our room right now.. and so there for I am going to cry and ring out clothes for the morning.

Back In Action

Well I have been MIA lately. So to catch you up on my crazy life. I've been all over the place. But mainly I've been putting in a lot of hours at Kim's (mothernlaw). We are re-doing her room for her 40th birthday and its alot of work! Painting, Painting, Oh and then I was the bright one who decided I wanted to re do her bathroom as well and now I'm peeling wall paper glue off piece by piece. I enjoy it though. Really. Its given her a fresh start and an awesome room. I've also started a Bible study with a great friend and I'm loving every minute of studying Ruth. Its amazing how God has planned every part of our life out and we always try to fix something. I'm learning to let God just be in control. Darkness is ALWAYS followed by the light.

Too Long.

Ok this was my longest break from blogging in awhile. I've been thinking of "blog material". Well theres really too much so I'll break it down into small stories...

#1 My Cousins Wedding


We had a great time! Everyone was sick leading up to the wedding but Saturday came around and we were all healed. It wasn't until Sunday did I manage to get sick! Awesome! Ok so my cousins center pieces are bowls with fish in them for the receptions. You can clearly see where this is going...Friday night we are at the Rehearsal Dinner and we decided that it was time for us to head back to my cousins house to chill out for the night. We had left the fish in their "carrier" that they were in all day on the counter. It was sealed so there was no way for the Cats to get into the fish. Right? Wrong. I walked into the house and found this...


Stupid Charlie the cat knocked the container over and ate some of them.... ok killed all of them. It was extremely tragic and then I had to replace them at midnight...


That concludes story #1. Story #2 Tomorrow

Whew...

Ok, so this is going to be short because my cousin got married yesterday and I'm dead on my feet. Oh and I'm sick but I wanted to share this picture (its poor quality so i'll get a better one with my actual camera I took this with my phone) She had a Cartoonist there at the reception! Its awesome!!! I'll be posting more pictures from the weekend when I'm better!

I CAN'T...

I can't comprehend someone not believing in Jesus Christ. Yes, I have been raised in "Church" my whole life. I don't even think I've missed more than 100 Sunday services in my life thus far. Here is where I begin this lil blurp. I was blog stalking and decided to click on random names to see where it may take me. However I wasn't prepared for the particular post on this completely random blog I'd made my way too. It was basically a major blow to people who believe in Jesus Christ. However, there are many types of religions that claim to be of the Christian descent but are not. Be careful. It just got me thinking…

When people CHOOSE not to believe in Christ.. they are in fact choosing their eternal destination.

When someone chooses not too I think of the Why's. (Just f.y.i. the Bible has NEVER been proven false. If you don't believe me... go purchase the book The Case for Christ written by Lee Strobel)Perhaps they haven’t heard how AWESOME He is. Maybe they had a horrible experience with a totally insensitive person. Maybe a family member told them to “BURN OR TURN”. Whatever the case may be, that is an individual’s actions, that is now affecting your eternal destination. My faith became my own when I was 13yrs old. I had enough life proof all around me and I’m thankful that I’ve always been able to see the Glory that only God Himself could have created. So, the blog post through me off. Just like Esther’s desire to save her people from death. I think to myself, “Self, these are you people.” Woah! Excuse me?! Who are my people, “Everyone that you come in contact with, Jessica.” What?! Holy Junk, That’s a true statement. I’ve never been one to talk to a random person about my faith. It scares me. Actually it terrifies me. My great grandfather used to ask EVERYONE, “Do you know where you would go if you died today?” I would cringe inside and out. Every time he was with us. But now I look back and I pray to God that one day I can have that strength to ask a complete stranger do you know where you would go if you were to die today.

I know that the “mystery” post on the “mystery” blog was found for a reason tonight. I encourage those who have put their faith and trust in Jesus Christ alone (No actions can save you, No chants, No "good behavior". etc.) to challenge yourself to being more open and upfront with your faith. If anyone hasn't put their faith and trust into a relationship with Jesus Christ I challenge you to give the relationship a fighting chance. Don't close the door right away.

Romans 10:14-15
How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!"

Esther.. much?

Wow. God is awesome. I prayed last night before I went to sleep that He would help me MAKE time for Him. When I say make time, I don't mean that I'm too busy to sit down and read the Bible, its that I choose to read other things. So today I was going to meet my friend and got there early and she was struggling to get free ;). I looked over to my passengers seat and there was my husbands Bible that I had read Sunday night waiting for him to meet me. I flipped open to where I had left off and there I was reading about Esters courage and strength. I've really been struggling with LIFE lately and I was just awed by the fact that God showed off a little for me today. My family isn't being attacked like Ester's was, I'm not at risk of my husband killing me because I stepped in to speak to him before he asked me too, and to think I was having a rough week?! It has inspired me yet again. I look at all the strong women in the Bible and it makes me wonder... What am I doing to making a last impression for My King?

early birds catch the worm...

Early birds may catch the worm.. but late birds fly through some kind of fast food! Have a great monday!

TAG!!!

I'm tagging the two people I know Amy and Amber... lol so if you stubble across my blog.. leave a comment so I can see your "25"



Rules:

Once you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. At the end, choose 25 people to be tagged. You have to tag the person who tagged you. If I tagged you, it's because I want to know more about you.

(To do this, go to "notes" under tabs on your profile page, paste these instructions in the body of the note, type your 25 random things, tag 25 people (in the right hand corner of the app) then click publish.)


1. I hate the SOUND of people biting their nails. Drives me INSANE!
2. Fact: I was born in South Florida and lived there for 15 yrs.
3. I miss the beach and my friends in Florida.
4. I love when someone will pop my toes.... creepy I know.
5. My husband is really amazing for putting up with me.
6. Hi, My name is jessica and I have a TWILIGHT problem.
7. I have a dream vacation that MY cousin is going on before me on her honeymoon.
8. God is always loving me....
9. I have a blanket name Tatters... he is still in ONE whole piece..
10. Tatters went on my honeymoon with me :).
11. I love sandals... LOVE them.
12. I love blog stalking photographers.
13. I want to be a great photographer when I grow up some day.
14. My husband is going to make one of the best Worship Pastors ever.
15. I don't know enough about America.
16. I'm out spoken.. all the time... No matter what.
17. I think people are always changing for the good or bad.
18. I can't say No to candy.
19. Long or Short hair? I will never know the answer.
20. I wish that movies could actually be real life...
21. Purses make my heart sing joyful songs.
22. When I'm taking pictures I feel like I see through God's eyes all the love and beauty He made.
23. Life is tough.. and it only gets tougher so people need to start preparing for it!
24. Debt=is so dumb.
25. Things like this that I just filled out make me realize.... I'm a shallow person ;).

No Shirt?

My cousin is getting married next Saturday, which we are all so excited. I'm her matron of honor and today we are having the bridal luncheon. Here's where today already starts off weird/interesting. I didn't go to bed until around 2. Night owl I believe is what they call me now. So I wake up this morning to the beautiful sound of rain... Stretch... then realize I'm shirtless. Now here me out when I was a little girl this ALWAYS used to happen because I would get hot in the middle of the night and not remember. So I guess I had a little girl moment.
As a little girl I also used to walk into my parents bedroom and crawl into bed. If they were awake and my mom's shirt was off I used to ask, "Mom, did you get hot last night too while you were sleeping?" her answer of course was, "Yes, hunny." No I know.. sometimes she was telling the truth.. other times..... well we'll just leave it at that.

Wednesday is a blogginday

Lookie here AMY at what I can do :-). So I know I haven't been very good at blogging and thats probably why I don't have "followers" as they call them. But I find that I used to think too hard about what to write about. I've been working out with my beloved Amy and I have to pat myself on the back.. or butt. I've been hanging with the "FitDawg". Not too bad if I do say so myself.
In continuing with the craziness of life, I feel as though I should share a brief summary of the past 3 months.

November was the month that Jeffrey (husband) and I found out that we were expecting. A total shock and surprise but one that we both wanted deeply. Truly I've never expressed myself to the fullest as I will in the next few words. I didn't know what in the world everything would work out. I wasn't going to get excited until after Christmas. That was my plan. The month of December creeped up so fast the next thing I knew I had my first Dr's appt. Everything was fine but they wanted me back in two weeks. Jeffrey was bummed because he wanted to go to every doctors appt. the next appt was sched on a Tuesday and he has to work :(. So fast forward to that day.. I'm in the car with my mom who was going with me. I remember the conversation as we pulled up to the dr's office.

ME: Mom, Is it a bad thing if I am preparing for bad news?
MOM: Jess, its not a bad thing. You know how we are.
ME: I just don't want to get too excited until I know everythings good. You know get out of the "Danger Zone".
MOM: I understand. It'll be fine.
That is when we got the bad news.I knew it.
The Dr. sat there not saying a thing. She got another Dr in to look at the ultrasound. He said that I didn't look as far along as we thought.... PAUSE. Didn't look as far along as we thought?! Our baby wasn't even there!! So I looked at the Dr. calmly and said,"Doesn't look good does it?" She said,"No, I'm sorry sweetheart."
And there I was... filled with every emotion possible without my Jeffrey. My mom is definitely the next best thing after my husband but I was crushed. I called Jeffrey sobbing. The doctor took my blood to make sure my levels were going down. My parents were actually told that my 1st younger brother was miscarried around that time as well. He wasn't ;). I feel like I'm rambling. But anyways.. it was a rough rest of the week. I get a call from the Dr. on Friday @ 5p.m. (the office is now closed). Telling me that my levels are still really high and I need to come back in on Monday for more blood work. No ultrasound? This is all happening the week before Christmas. Am I having a baby or not?! I asked Jeffrey. He just gave me a huge hug and said lets not get our hopes up. I was fuming. I wanted an ultrasound and I wanted it on a Friday night. Thankfully Jeffrey's Aunt Brittany's Best Friend is an OBGYN. God bless ANGY. She met us on Saturday and opened her clinic just for me! She spent 30 minutes with us explaining everything did multiple tests and there was no more baby :(. Angy's husband preformed my surgery that Monday.

Waking up in recovery was by far the worst time thus far in my life. I've never felt so empty and alone. But in that short time I was reminded of my loving God's plan. I remembered that along time ago I gave my life to God's PERFECT PLAN. No matter the cost. No matter the pain. No matter what. I'm not going to argue with God's plan for mine and Jeffrey's family. I refuse to let the grief control me. Though I have grieved I will not be consumed by it. I have a joy in God's plan that can only be from Him.

Jeffrey and I will be attending college in the fall. I hope to still pursue photography and Jeffrey will ROCK and his MuSic degree. SO there.. that's what I've got for my 2nd Blog of the new year....

Then your light will break forth like the dawn,
and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness will go before you,
and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard.
Isaiah 58:8

Its a New Year!

Woah! Its been months since I've even been on my blog.. Horrible I know.. But my goal this year is to be a little bit better.. haha Baby steps right?! This new year has brought our family alot of changes and alot of plans. SO we are going to hold on tight and see where we are taken. Oh and I'm going to learn how to do cool links on here too. TTYL