Let's help one another!

As many of you know, I spent way too many years in a legalistic church. Thankfully, I grew up in church, so I do have another "church experience", to cling to. A positive, bible teaching, experience to hang on to. Of course when you have many people go throgh the same thing, everyones experiences are different. Many similarities, yet different. For some, this "church experience" of legalism, control, and cult like dynamics, is their only experience. When the word of God has been twisted by man, how do you again learn to trust? When your "friends" from church dismiss you as a miserable, backsliden soul, now that you left "that" church. When the church you left has spoken unkind things about every church in town, and it's hard to find a place to worship. When you hear a pastor deliver a sermon and you automatically question his intent...........So many questions. Are there any answers? I am asking christians, non-christians, to tell about your experiences and how you have gotten through them. Maybe you weren't in such a legalistic place, but were just hurt by other christians, or felt betrayed by someone in leadership. Any experience having to do with church, and what and where did you find strength? Please share!!!! If you know someone who you think would have something to share, but probably isn't reading my blog, please send them a note, or link them to this blog.

Taylor Alyssa Johns!

Isn't she gorgeous! Just wanted everyone to meet Taylor. Isn't she adorable, precious and sweet. It brings back so many memories of my three girls when they were newborns. In fact, that might be the last time they were so precious. I say that because Mikelle is in "fit" mode as we speak. I need Super Nanny or something. I really do use the techniques and stuff, but some days, I would rather they were just newborns again, so they didn't speak. I know that statement isn't going to award me super mom of the year award. But I am ok with that! Tonight when I tuck them in, and they look so cute and sweet, my heart will soften once again. But that isn't for another hour and a half. I just pray we all make it!!

Thanks Eight!!

Thanks to my sister for the new blog design. I was getting real tired of looking at the old one. I think all of the colors are fun, and the design is oh so hip. Just like you Sha Na Na!! I only wish I had the ability to do it myself- Love ya

Happy 14th Anniversary!

Well, today is our 14th Wedding Anniversary. Although, we have been together for about 18 years. Man that is crazy, since I am only 25 years old. Ha Ha- Charles is really a wonderful, guy. We have a lot of fun together every day. Nobody ever tells you that marriage is the hardest thing you will ever do. Although, raising kids isn't so easy. It might be a tie!! Of course our 14 years hasn't been without issues. But I can't think of anyone I would rather have issues with. I love him to the moon, and feel very blessed and thankful to have him.

8 Things That Drive Me Crazy!

I have been tagged by my sister, Shannon. So enjoy reading about the 8 things that drive me crazy. Then check the bottom of my post, because I may have tagged you!

1. Any variety of noises such as chewing, chomping, smacking, snoring, breathing heavy, etc.... Oh, a clock ticking! I am not even saying I don't do any of those things. It's just if someone else is chomping on some chips, it will drive me totally crazy, unless.... I am chomping too!

2. My oldest daughters favorite phrase, " I don't care!" Because, I know she does care about everything she says she doesn't care about. Hormones!!

3. Lately whats driving me totally crazy, is my computer and whatever virus or something it has. Everytime I try and upload a picture onto my blog, it freezes. That is why no Christmas pictures yet, mom!

4. Cleaning up the clutter. I don't mind cleaning, it's the daily clutter that never seems to go away for good, that totally frustrates me.

5. I have to agree, with Shannon, and the whole DVR thing cutting off to soon. That can be annoying!

6. Laundry, drives me out of this world. With a family of 5, who all participate in many activities, well, that equals many wardrobe changes. On top of my girls throwing clean things in the laundry, cuz they don't want to put it away.

7. Being "Politically Correct". What a joke sometimes.

8. Every New Years having to think about dieting!

What are 8 things that drive you crazy, Laurie & Jen!

Attention--- All creative minds out there!!!

I have wanted to figure out how to make one of these for my daughters room for about a year now. This particular one - costs $599.00 at Pottery Barn. I went to Loews here and they don't sell chalk board, peg board, and things like that. I was figuring I would find those things there, and could have them cut to the size I need. All of the fabric squares are just peg board, covered in fabric. C'mon Shannon, Beckie, Michele, and whoever else wants to answer this call. I am obviously not going to spend 600 dollars. Any suggestions?

3 Ring Circus, about to become 4 Ring Circus!

One of my very dear friends, Dena, is going to have her second child tomorrow. It never gets less amazing, the whole child birth thing. Tonight, Taylor is in her body and tomorrow, she will be out. I of course, will be going to the hospital to get a quick peek at the little miracle. Taylor has 2 wonderful parents who love and adore her, a big strong brother to take care of her, and a houseful of crazy people over here who will love her too!!! I just wanted to take this moment and thank God for blessing Matt and Dena with another blessing from above, and ask that His hand would be with all of them tomorrow. I will give all the exciting details later!