Keeping Up With The Kinley's

Kole' 5th Birthday Party

2009-11-23T11:17:00.002-06:00

We decided to have your party early this year with so many folks gone for the Thanksgiving holidays. You wanted to have it at the Crossett bowling alley. So we invited a few friends. You are so into Transformers. So I got you a Transformer cake which was so yummy. We had Johnny's pizza, too. You guys were so cute bowling! I think some of us adults got to bowl a little. Mamaw and Grandaddy came down. It was such a fun time! I love you so much! My little boy is becoming a little man now!

Kole's Deer/Conway visit

2009-11-23T11:08:00.003-06:00

We went to Conway last week for deer season. Benny wanted to hunt on the Kinley farm. It was so cool b/c this year Kole is so into it! So Friday night we had a campfire and did all the roasting hotdogs/marshmellows. I loved being home. But Crossett is now home for us. Of course I had to dine at my favorite places: Marketplace, Chili's, TGIFriday's, and downtown Conway's Old Chicago. I got to see Emily and Melinda, Alisha, and Shelly! Of course time with April my sis in law who is a blessing in my life. The kids got to play with Lauren , Ashlyn and Luke. They did a celebration for Benny and Kole's November birthdays. Check out the deer that Kole and Benny killed. The funny thing is Kate is so gonna be a hunter. She was all about gutting th deer. Sorry, won't post those pics!

Kole Pre-School Thanksgiving Feast

2009-11-23T11:01:00.002-06:00

On Friday Kole's school had the annual Thanksgiving feast. All parents were invited to attend. We were to bring something to go along with the feast. Kole had to bring 2 apples on Friday as the class prepared a "Friendship Salad". I love how good the teacher are at his school. As a fellow educator, I feel like he is already in kindergarten b/c he is learning so much. I asked him about the first Thanksgiving and why we have it. It was cute getting the story! They all dressed up like Indians and made the cutest decorations.!

Happy Halloween 2009

2009-10-31T20:02:00.002-05:00

I LOVE LOVE LOVE Halloween. When I was a kid I just loved pretending to be someone else. Now it is fun to watch Kole and Kate live out the fun! I got up this am to a cold but beautiful sunny long run and got to see all the decorations. We then watched "spooky cartoons" and I made us a big lunch. After naps we headed to the Crossett library for trick or treating there. Kate and Kole won the cake walk and got cupcakes. Then we were off to Beth's house to meet up with friends to trick or treat! Afterwards we ate delicious chili , hotdogs, chips, and goodies. The kids went wild and got lots of candy. We then came home and did a little trick or treating down out street. It is only 8pm and I am tired. Hope everyone had a great Halloween!

Kole's First Halloween Party

2009-10-30T16:01:00.002-05:00

Today I went to Kole's pre-k class and helped with the party. They had goody bags and cookies from Teresea's bake shop! (NOT AS GOOD AS MAGGIE'S IN CONWAY). But it will work! They played games and danced. So cute! I am so glad I am a stay-at-home mom and can participate in events!

Kole's Field Trip to the Crossett Zoo

2009-10-30T15:58:00.003-05:00

Here are a few pics of Kole's class at the Pumpkin patch/Crossett zoo. We had such a good time. Kate came, too. She loves being with her big brother! We got to pick our very own pumpkin out and decorate it with stickers. There was even a gracious scarecrow who helped us!

Dinner with Friends

2009-10-30T15:55:00.003-05:00

So Bridgette turned 38! WHOO HOO! We had to celebrate at Fiesta Linda's!! I have some incredible women in my life. These girls and I just have a blast when we are together! I think we almost got kicked out of there that night we were so LOUD!

Long Time, No Blog!

2009-10-30T15:52:00.004-05:00

Busy is the word in the Kinley household! Kole is in pre-k 5 days a week and Kate goes to Wee school 2 days a week. I am still so busy personal training and teaching classes at the gym. Here is some pics!

Here are a few pics of Kole's field trip to the fire station. He was scared of the fire truck. His best friend Bryce is so cute! They are inseperable!

Big Dam Bridge 100

2009-09-27T18:20:00.002-05:00

Before you think I rode 100 miles on my bike let me correct you now! I am not that crazy! I have been training 3x a week to riding my bike and increasing my mileage getting ready for the Big Dam Bridge Ride. My great buddy from Conway got me into biking while I got him and some others into running. I love to ride and never had anyone in Crossett who had a road bike. Then Brenda entered my life! She is a very strong rider who had done Big Dam before. So we set a goal to ride the 5o miler. I was very anxious and scared of the ride. So many folks, like over 2,ooo, were there. I was so nervous how we lined up all packed together. I am just so scared of a bike wreck. (even though I have fallen all the time off mine when clipped in ). The weather was perfect and God just was everywhere I looked Saturday. When we approached the Big Dam bridge, which I have never seen before, it knocked the breath out of me! The way the sun was on the water and the glow, I had to shout! PRASIE GOD! THANK YOU LORD FOR YOUR BEAUTY. I think I prasied God all thru the ride. Brenda knows I prayed a lot when we hit the hill section. I cannot explain the experience of the ride itself, all I can say is that I am hooked, addicted, and loving to ride.

Reach In, Reach Up, Reach Out

2009-09-15T06:46:00.004-05:00

We started reach groups last Wednesday night at church. Benny and I signed up for the parenting class. There is such a need in many churches to have Godly background and scripture that helps support us as parents. We have a small, intimate group of 4 couples. I love how every week we are in the same home and we get to eat and fellowship before getting into our studies. We are studying: "Parenting God's Way:A Biblical Look At Parenting your Children. Last week each parent shared concerns on their hearts and I just felt this closeness we all share wanting to raise our kids in healthy, loving, God-enriched environments. Our group has two wonderful leaders named John and Diane Wooten. They have children who are grown, so their mentoring is absolutely uplifting. Here are some of the scriptures we studied and meditated on this week in our quiet time:
Psalm 127:3
Mark 10:13-16
Proverbs 17:6
Proverbs 22:6
Proverbs 29:15

Our title this past week was. "Is your child a burden or a blessing?" I feel everyday that I fail my children in some area. Sometimes I don't have the very best day with them and everything falls apart. I feel like a failure. What I am learning is that yes, I am a failure if I try to do ANYTHING without God's help in parenting. I must daily seek His help and guidance. As Shannon pointed out in our group, they are only ours for a little while. They are a gift. God hand-picked me to be Kole and Kate's mommy. I must invest daily in prayer and opportunites to show my kids what it means to love God and obey His commandments. I am so thankful for our group! I know God is going to show us something new every week to apply in our hearts!

Kate's 1st Dance Class

2009-09-15T06:42:00.004-05:00

Little Sally started dance last week. We got here all dressed up and she was ready to go. She only has one other little girl in her class. Kate was all about dancing for the first 3 minutes and then she refused to dance and instead wanted to investigate the huge "water bug" as Crossett people call them. I call them "ROACHES". After 30 minutes of encouraging her to dance, she finally did the "piggy dance". That girl has a mind of her own. Sounds so familiar! I can't wait to see what she does tonight!

Dallas Mania

2009-08-31T09:02:00.004-05:00

On Thursday I headed to Dallas for "Dallas Mania" convention. This is a 3 day explosion of the newest fitness knowledge and training! It is so much fun! But also very exhausting!! This year Wanda went with me from Crossett. We had a great time! We met all my gals from Conway that I worked with while there.

The amazing thing about my trip this year was getting to see all my friends but also learning new things. I took 2 very helpful personal training classes. But the class that rocked my world was ZUMBA!!! Wanda and I danced so hard and we were so drenched! It was like a party. You just moved to the music. The lady leading it was just so much fun. The whole 1 1/2 was just learning the moves while having a ball! All these ladies, different shapes, sizes, ages, etc were having the time of their lives. I will be teaching Zumba starting next week here in Crossett at our gym. I can't wait!!

This year I also got to meet 2 famous instructors that I love. Julz Arney and Chris Freytag. They are just so unbelievable! I had such a great time and feel truly blessed to have shared this experience with such incredibly strong women. Can't wait till next year!

Kole and Kate's 1st Day of School

2009-08-21T08:35:00.003-05:00

Tuesday Kate began her school career! She is now a Wee School attendee! She goes from 8:15-2:45 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We were a little nervous since she has never been away from me before. She did GREAT! She has the sweetest teacher. When I picked her up yesterday she was so excited. Her teacher told me she was such a sweet girl!

Kole started the head-start program today! I am so thrilled we got into this program. Being an educator, I am always very particular about the learning process for my kids. We went to an open house on Tuesday night and I was just so impressed with the standards set for Kole's program. Mrs. Ricks, Kole's teacher, is very polished and knows her stuff. When I went into the classroom, I was so impressed. It is just like kindergarten, with centers, a reading lounge, games, math manipulatives, etc. They follow all the Arkansas Frameworks and readiness standards. Kole was so excited this am and had to wear his "Tom and Jerry" shirt.

I am so proud of my sweet babies. (Note to self: They are not babies anymore) I pray God will guide them in their endeavors at school!

Time In Lexa

2009-08-09T20:30:00.004-05:00

So my good friend Melissa could do my yoga class Thursday and I packed the kids and headed to my mom's for the weekend. I love going to Lexa b/c I feel so at ease and peaceful. We went straight to my Grandma Tolar's house. I wanted to go thru it b/c it is about to sell. I cried. Kate kept going thru the house calling out for her. Kole was right by my side telling me it was okay. What a sweet boy I have!

On a happier note, we played so much! My dad got my model-T car fixed for the kids! They LOVE riding in it. I thought I was "something else" when I got that car. We played in the yard, went swimming, and did the "slip and slide". Nana took us shopping on Saturday for school clothes.

The pics are so funny! The kids just love being outside! I had such a good time and I am ready to go back soon!

4th of july

2009-08-06T07:13:00.002-05:00

Yes, I know I am late getting these on here. It just took this computer-challenging girl awhile to understand the downloading process. Here are a few pics of us cooking out all day w/ my parents. We swam all day! So nice!

Random Pics

2009-08-06T07:05:00.002-05:00

Confessions of an OCD Gal

2009-07-23T07:23:00.004-05:00

Have you ever woke up with a to-do list longer that your arm? I have got to pray about this, folks! I will start a list and if it isn't checked off and complete by the end of the day I crumble. I know this sounds so OCD. Well, I am OCD! I guess being a teacher and always following a schedule mapped out by 30 minute incraments really doesn't help. This morning in my quiet time God really laid upon my heart the questions, "WHY"? It was like He had me question "why are you doing this, why right now"? I had to take some inventory in my heart and go thru my "to-do" list and really question if the task was worth the time. I always try to balance my life. I try to equally give time to all. Some get short-changed. So this is my inventory:

1) Quiet time w/ God
2)Prayer confession, interceding
3)Encouraging friends/family
4) Being a supportive and loving wife to Benny, putting him over myself
5) Being the best mom I can be and teaching my kids right/wrong
6) Exercise/goal setting
7)Being a good daughter, friend, etc
8) Serving God in my church
9) Keeping my meals well-planned
10) House in order/cleaning chores
11) Reading/researching on ways to help my clients achieve goals

Okay, this is not in any order. That is the problem! Sometimes they all get shuffled around or more time is spent in one area than the next. So God gave me an "ouchy" when He revealed this lst to me IN ORDER. So today I threw out the list!! Yes, it is good to try and organize your day and tasks at hand. But if I don't start my day focused on God and the glory of my salvation, than it is worthless!!

So this girl is going to take today one step at a time! I am not going to beat myself up if it all doesn't get done. I am going to allow God to direct my path! Praise Jesus that we serve a God who never gives up on us!!
P.S. Please comment and tell me if you ever feel like I do about life's demands

I Am Back

2009-07-16T06:06:00.004-05:00

I am back.....well to the blogging world that is! Many of you know that the last 6 months I have been studying for my certification in personal training. I passed yesterday!! Yippee!!!I woke up this morning staring at that big ole book and the mountain of notes, etc and could actually BREATH! If you know me at all, I am setting new goals to achieve. But the next ones are more intimate. I am giving God more of my time and energy. Benny and I made a big step and left our comfort zone a few weeks back and are now attending a new church. We are so excited to see God working!! I am even more excited to see my husband stepping forward to serve! Kole will begin a 5 day, all day, headstart at Crossett schools this fall. If you know me and the teacher I am, I want the BEST for my kids. this program is phenominal, and it is FREE! Kate will begin her first ever career in Wee School 2 days all day. I can't believe it! I will update our summer soon. I got a new laptop and I am still trying to download and trasfer things from my old computer. Pictures coming soon!

7 Days

2009-07-09T15:50:00.003-05:00

In 7 days I will be a free woman! I mean, in 7 days all this studying will be behind me. I have put in 6 long months of reading, comprehending, applying, etc. Will it be enough? Will I pass? I love personal training. I can't tell you how motivating and awesome it is to try and help people reach fitness/competition/weight management goals. I get so pumped reading articles, researching, and trying new ideas w/ clients. I have made some very good friends. I am giving this directly to God. I have prepared my mind as best as I can. Now I have to let go and give Him total control in this. Only He can give me the confidence and guidance. So please remember me in your prayers next Wednesday @ 12:30. I need them!!!

The Way God Moves

2009-06-19T09:32:00.003-05:00

I am still in awe of how God speaks to me. Sometimes it is loud and audible to me. Other times it is sweetly suttle. I donwloaded Mandisa's new album entitled "Freedom" the other day. Every song has touched an area of my life I am dealing with. God is moving in ways I just didn't ever imagine.And it is a good thing. Lately I have drowned myself in doubt. God reminded me of the 3 deadly D's of Satan:
1)Doubt
2)Disappointment
3)Discouragement

Satan is so good at these 3 things and I have allowed them all to take over areas in my life at some point. I have had to claim God's word and His promises to break these chains of strongholds. I am never defeated in Christ!!! Iam claiming this verse in regards to my ACE test:

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God". Phillipians 4:6

I have had the opporunity to really let down my walls and praise God in some great worship. The experiences in themselves have been life-changing. I feel like I had sheilded my heart for so long to really let down my walls and open up fully to that worship experience. Why have I waited to do so? Maybe I have been too distracted and busy. But I am glad God allowed me to see what I have been missing in my prayer life and worship experience simply because I was not allowing Him to work. It is my own fault! Again, I was distracted!!

Another verse that means a lot tome is one I have been praying over my children. We have really tried to have more time w/ the kids in Bible study at home. Benny plays the guitar and we sing some praise songs the kids like and read a story from a great book my friend Niki recommended called"Fun Devotions for Boys:Gotta Have God" by Lynn Marie-Ittner Klammer. The kids really love it! We love the time sharing things about God to them. And the prayer time is always so cute! Here is the verse:

"And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more with the knowledge, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with righteousness tht comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God." Phil. 1:9-11.

I am so excited to see how God is moving in our family. I know the opportunities are endless! I hope to keep seeking what He has equipped me to do. And I am excited to see where He takes us next! God is GOOD! GOOD all the time!

Kole is a Biker!!

2009-06-07T20:20:00.004-05:00

I am so proud of Kole! He really hasn't had a desire for riding his new bike he got for Christmas. But his buddy, Collin Gann, asked him to ride a few times and now he is my little biker! We ride a route that is right at 1 mile. We ride at least 3x a week! I am so proud of my little man! Watch out Lance Armstrong! Here comes my Kole!

Let the Summer begin!

2009-06-01T08:17:00.003-05:00

We officially opend our pool this weekend! It had been kinda cloudy and not hot enought, but boy was is hot this weekend! I have worked so hard on the backyard making it ready! I have mulched, replanted, planted, moved some plants around, etc. In March I had eyed a patio set at Walmart I really wanted and we got it. So glad b/c now you really can't find any! It was my Mother's Day/Anniversary present. Saturday Will and Sara came over to swim, along w/my bud Jenni. We had so much fun having girl time! Kole, Kate and Will stayed out there w/ out even napping. Benny fired up the grill and we had delicious chicken, sausage, veggie kobobs! We sat out till 10pm laughing and just having a good time! On Sunday afternoon everybody was back for more pool time! I can tell that we are gonna enjoy our backyard this summer!

Hot Springs for memorial Day 2009

2009-06-01T08:11:00.003-05:00

We went to the Kinleys house in Hot Springs for Memorial Day weekend. We had 2 days of sunshine and one day of rain! We got to eat at McClard's, On the Border, and of course both nights at Fisherman's Warf! I love all the good eats there. We rode Grandad's new party barge. On Sunday Kenny, April and the kiddos came up ! We took the kids out Monday and Kole actually wanted to tube after seeing Lauren do an incredible job! He liked it until the water was constantly hitting his face! Ashlyn even got in, but they flipped! Not pretty! It was such a good time!

American Idol Watch Party!

2009-05-22T09:10:00.002-05:00

These last few months we have watched Kris Allen evolve into this great performer and supported him every Tuesday/Wednesday night. I am so proud how Conway and Arkansas have supported him. So we cooked burgers, has Stoby's cheese dip, and other goodies as we watched the 2 hour show! We had so much fun laughing, eating, and visiting! When they announced Kris as the American Idol, I was just so HAPPY! The great thing is that there is only one IDOL in this young man's life, and it is Jesus Christ. So happy that he won!! So proud to say I am from Conway, now formally changed to ALLENVILLE!!!!!!!!!!

At The Park

2009-05-22T09:03:00.002-05:00

Kole had a end-of-year picnic last week at the park. He loves Evan and Collin. He talks about them all the time! Kate had a good time, too! Next year Kate is going to Wee School, and Kole will start the pre-school program at Hastings Elementary.

Armadillo 5k

2009-05-02T10:59:00.004-05:00

Jenna, Tobi, Me, and Julie

Mike, Kari, Me, Jenna, and Julie w/ our awards

Kari and Mike

Before race! We are ready!

I picked up my friends this am, and we were off to Hamburg to run the Armadillo 5k. It is a really flat race! It was so humid, but fun! I ran to TobyMac the whole time and really enjoyed the energy of his music! My friend Kari and her fiance, Mike, won awards! The are so FAST! Julie got 2nd, Jenna got 1st in her age, and I got 1st in my age group. I have realized that this body is getting old!! Running is ALWAYS a challenge for me! But the best part is how God amazes me and gives me a little "therapy" with Him when I run! Thanks also to Sharon, my awesome boss, who took pics of all of us!

Conway Visit

2009-04-21T11:43:00.006-05:00

Kole and James Patrick McCarron

That is me in the middle getting ready for the ride!

Amy K, Me, Alisha and Shelly! Love my girls!

Kris is everywhere in Conway!

Kris knows what is good! STOBY'S CHEESE DIP!!! YUMMY!!

We had such a great time in Conway last week! I have to say, it is hard sometimes to go home, because I was very much reminded on the friendships I miss so dearly. I have a past with these folks. They know me so in depth. Years have been invested into these relationships. I went for pleasure but also for business! I am taking the ACE personal trainer test this summer. So I was grateful to Conway Regional Fitness center for helping me so much w/ my questions! U guys rock! I was so GRATEFUL to be at the prayer vigil for the McCarrons at my old church, 2nd Baptist. It was great to feel God all over Emily and Sean despite their circumstance. We are called to pray for each other in need! I got to spend some precious time w/ Melinda, too! Kole got to play w/ our old playgroup, and we got to see extra doses of our cousins! I appreciated my inlaws for letting us stay. Another wonderful thing was seeing Kris Allen stuff EVERYWHERE! He is on American Idol, my favorite contestant EVER since Mandisa!!! He is a great Christian guy who goes to New Life Church here. I got to read some great articles on him in the local publications. It is time for America to see a great Christian win Idol!! And thanks to a great ride w/ Earl and the gang, I am once again ADDICTED to my road bike! P.S. This Kris Allen song is great, but I couldn't get "Falling Slowly" yet. Enjoy!

Praying for Emily

2009-04-14T18:56:00.003-05:00

As those of you know my best friend, Emily, lost her home on Easter Sunday to fire. I am just so devestated that she and Sean are having to endure another tragedy in their lives. I got the call and asked God, "why Emily?" She is truly one of the very few people I have ever known that bestows the quality of Christ's love. A servant. A leader. A prayer warrior. My friend. God just gave me a peace and some scripture to help me realize that we are never alone or forgotten in tragedies like this, but He is so close. I know God had a reason and a purpose! Please pray for her, Sean, and James Patrick! Tomorrow night I will be attending my old church, 2nd Baptist of Conway, for a special prayer service for them. I pray they find more peace and love! Emily, if you are reading this, listen to the words to this song! May it give you some peace!!

Go 4 Autism Race

2009-04-13T09:15:00.002-05:00

I did a race 2 weeks ago and I didn't have my SIM card in the camera! So no photos! But it was a beautiful day and the race was so much fun. Well, not my complete thoughts as I was running it. Since working at the gym keeps me so busy, I don't get to run much as I used to run. So I cranked on my praise music! Here are pics of the kids and me the day after the race! I got an itunes card, 1st in my age, and overall 10k female runner.

Hancock Party

2009-04-13T09:07:00.003-05:00

Two weeks ago we had a going away party for our good friend Kevin Hancock who is being deployed to Iraq. It was a great night of good food, fellowship, and some singing! Benny brought out the guitar and we all laughed as he played songs and we forgot the lyrics! We are praying so hard for Kevin, Tracey, and the girls.

Kole and Kate's Awana Graduation

2009-04-02T12:36:00.002-05:00

We are so PROUD of Kole! He finished his awana cubby book this year! He worked so hard every week on his verses! Last night was the ceremony. Grandaddy and Mamaw came to watch him and Kate. She was a Puggle this year! Memorizing God's word is the most important thing we can give our kids!

Hot Springs for Spring Break

2009-04-01T09:48:00.003-05:00

So we left last Wednesday for Hot Springs! It was so nice to be away and just relax. We w/ to Mamaw and Grandaddy's home there. Grandaddy has worked very hard to make this house so beautiful! We loved it! We ate out at so many good places like: McClard's, Fisherman's Warf, Olive Garden, Chili's, and several other places! We shopped, went to the alligator farm, played putt-putt, and went to see the Easter bunny. We played alot! It was just a great 5 days!!

Monroe Zoo and Nana!

2009-03-24T07:53:00.003-05:00

Nana was on spring break last week and she came down for a few days. We packed up and headed to Monroe Friday to the zoo! She took us to eat lunch at Olive Garden, took us shopping in the mall, and just spoiled the kids rotten! The kids loved riding the indoor carousel at the mall. We just love having Nana here!

Sunday School Social

2009-03-24T07:48:00.002-05:00

Last Tuesday, St. Patrick's Day, our class had a social of Mexican theme food! It was so good! I loved getting to see all the creative dishes everyone brought! Christi did a great job, too, decorating and having it at her home!

By Your Side

2009-03-16T15:32:00.004-05:00

Please listen to the lyrics of this song by Tenth Avenue North. It really spoke to me today. I was just feeling really sad about my Grandma and missing her to pieces. Then it was like God spoke the precious words of this song to me. How precious is our Lord, Jesus Christ. Oh how He loves us so much more than we could ever know!

Lexa Bound!

2009-03-15T17:01:00.002-05:00

We headed to my mom and dad's house this weekend. It was great to see my family again! It was also the first time I have been home since my grandma died. We walked into her house to get some things on Friday. I really had a hard time. It just seems like she should be there. I would give ANYTHING to hug her and kiss her and talk w/ her. But I know she is home. My parents really spoiled us rotten! We so enjoyed the visit. Kate and Kole are very crazy about their "Paps" and "Nana".

I caught Kole praying.....

2009-03-09T08:49:00.004-05:00

My kids fight like cats & dogs. That is just what they do. But sometimes I will catch them really loving each other! Yesterday we had a picnic outside. I glanced out the window and I saw Kole praying. I grabbed the camera. Kate really watches what Kole does all the time. She is now praying sweet prayers at night b/c she hears him pray. She is also good to pray before she eats. I think it is neat that Kole is a role model for her. So when she saw him praying, she bowed her little head. I hope I can display this child-like faith daily. I get so rushed sometimes! I am so blessed they have each other to lean on in life.

5th Memory Verse

2009-03-09T08:39:00.003-05:00

With sick kids and trying my best to squeeze in my studying for the ACE test, I have been challenged with trying to get my memory verses down pat. This month I have chosen 2 Timothy 2:13

"If we are FAITHLESS, He will remain

FAITHFUL,

for He cannot disown Himself."

In my Esther study Beth Moore speaks about how the mind is the battlefield. Satan cannot physically harm us w/out God's approval. So he comes at us psychologically. He will torment us with memories, past mistakes, or whatever he can to make us not productive. I know this week when Kole was in the hospital, I had flashes of him not making it. What if he passed? But that is where FAITH steps in! I had to pray that by faith I would give my child over to God and that he would be healed. Sometimes I am faithless. But praise God that He is FAITHFUL! So I encourage any of you out there that battle w/ thoughts or past mistakes, or just mental torment. God came to "set the captives free". He is the lover of our souls, our Almighty Creator. Claim this verse, my sisters, and stand the battlefield strong!

Kole Update

2009-03-06T08:06:00.004-06:00

Here's Kole in his ACH shirt!

Happy to be home and well!

Thanks to all of you for praying for Kole! I know our God in heaven heard your cries! Yesterday we got to leave Children's. Basically what happened to Kole was that he got the fever/stomach virus. Since he couldn't swallow his hormone pills, which he takes 3x a day, his immune weakened. We were not aware that this could cause a major drop in his immune to fight off a simple virus. He has NEVER been sick like this ever! So when he went those 3 days without it, it was a major thing. We are now tripling his doses to get him on track. He is still weak. But he is resting well and being the sweetest boy ever! We are very thankful for Dr. Walsh, our doctor here in Crossett for being so concerned to send him where he knew we would find answers. Praise God for healing, because without the prayers, we don't know what would have happened if more than 4-5 hours wold have gone by!! Thanks for all of you who have prayed, commented, texted, called, etc. The love you have shown is astounding and we feel blessed! (And to my sweet Ashley, who manned the emails, kept everyone updated, washed all my sheets, folded clothes, cleaned/disinfected my house, left Kole and Kate treats, AND left us a meal in the refrigerator! You are just so precious! ) Love to all of you!! P.S. Kole loves his shirt form ACH!!

Praying for Kole

2009-03-04T07:40:00.002-06:00

Yesterday we rushed Kole to ACH in Little Rock w/ high fever and severe vomitting. He was very lethargic and we were VERY CONCERNED about him. We rushed to ACH and was told to go to the er, where they finally got him an iv and started fluids. He was then admitted around 2pm. They are doing a lot of tests. His white blood sugar count is very high, along w/ him missing his hormone doses due to not keeping anything down. He had a very rough night and we ask for specific prayer in that his IV will not come out again.Kole is very arfaid of needles. (he should be after his ordeal w/them) Totally looses it. We are praying they get answers from blood work and the x-rays. I ask you all to pray for my sweet baby boy. He is so in the arms of God. He has asked several times for me to pray for him when he has been afraid. So now I am asking you to pray. Will try to update these posts as I know things!

Valentine Pics

2009-03-01T19:35:00.003-06:00

My sweet Momma
In our Valentine pj's

Kole and I making cookies

Kole and Kate w/ their goodies!

My precious momma came down for Valentine weekend. I rented "Nights in Rodanthe" and we had a special dinner. I got her some cute little valentine pj's! We had a great time! I cried when she left. I miss her. Since I lost Grandma I seem to cry over the littlest of things. I think of my Grandma everyday. Things she said, things we did, her love for me! I even decided that I have to carry on watching "Young and the Restless" in her honor. I miss calling her to ask her what she thought about Victor or Jack. I think one big lesson when she passed on is to not take those around you for granted. I love my mom so much. Can't wait to go home this weekend!

Sickness Galore!

2009-03-01T19:31:00.002-06:00

Sickness has prevailed in the Kinley home this week! Kate got sick last Tuesday with the nasty cold, running nose, allergies, and coughing. She had a horrible fever. After 5 days of it, I was going CRAZY!! I had to get out of the house for sanity purposes! (yall ever been there?) Saturday around 9am I called a sitter and Ben and I went to see Madea Goes to Jail. I laughed so hard that my abs hurt! I think I needed to laugh b/c being in the house w/ one sick demanding child (bless her bones) and a very active little boy who talks my ears off was about too much! Now Kate is better and Kole just started a fever and has thrown up 2x! Oh dear, here we go!!

#4 Scripture Memory Verse

2009-02-19T06:31:00.003-06:00

I have loved this scripture for a long time. Especially when God made it so personal to me many times in my life. God's word is to be TREASURED! It is the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY speaking to us! All my life I have grown up with the sense of knowing who God was in stories. But over the last several years I have learned to RESPECT God's word. It is never out-dated. It is the same as it was yesterday and today and forever. It applies to any situation or problem I face. God's word is my HOPE! I cling to it daily!! The beautiful thing about scripture is that it applies to what we need at the right time. I get so fired up when I read this one! So here it is:

"For the word of God is living and active,

sharper than any two-edged sword,

piercing to the division of soul and spirit,

of joints and marrow,

and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart."

Hebrews 11:12

Emily

2009-02-13T08:30:00.003-06:00

9 years ago God brought a very special gift into my life! I just finished my 1st Beth Moore Bible study on Paul. I met this energetic, beautiful, lively, and terriffic girl named Emily McCarron. She was a "light" in a room when she walked thru any door. She loved God so much that it radiated in her personality. We became fast friends! We were in charge of giving welcome baskets to new couples in our class. We had some great adventures! We also had the same pursuit for God. We did "A Heart Like His" on David together one summer. We got so close! Then she began to run w/ me! I was so impressed how this girl said she never ran and could run almost everybody in our running group into the ground. She was super fast! God knew what He was doing because He brought this strong beacon of light into my life. When my marriage ended 3 years later, she and Melinda were there to pick up the pieces of my life. She cried for me and with me, cooked me meals, helped me pack, prayed for me by laying her hands on me, cheered me up, and sent the best cards to help me feel I wasn't alone! Later down the road I met Benny. She and Melinda had to approve! And they did! We were on the same journey once again in life. BABIES! She was to have James Patrick in October and I was to have Kole in November. We were so excited! Melinda was to have Anna Kate in February! So when she had some complications in her pregnancy, we prayed. She did have a sick little boy, but we kept praying and JP was healthy! I love we have boys the same age. I hope they see in us the love we have for one another. After Emily had JP she began having complications w/ her health. These last 4 years she has endured lots of tests, traveling to docs to find a cure, lots of pain, tears, and disappointment. Thru it all, she has had to give up many things she loves like running, working out, and other events. She has stood strong in the Lord! I find so much strength in her b/c I know where her hope comes from: the Lord! Emily, on the eve of Valentine's Day, I want you to know you have my heart! I love you so much! I pray for your healing! And I know we are like David and Jonathan. "A chord of three strands is not quickly broken" Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 You are my strength and prayer warrior! I can count on you! Do you remember this song? You played it for me alomst 9 years ago? Yes, "something about being with you makes me feel like I have been near God" as Watermark puts it. Just wanted you to know I am always here! Love you! Love our time together this past weekend!

Celebrating!!

2009-02-08T19:23:00.003-06:00

Me and Lauren
Me, Lauren and April

Lauren and her cake

Kole, Ashlyn, Lauren, and Luke

Lauren's cake!

We got to be a part of a wonderful event this weekend! My precious little niece, Lauren, got baptised this weekend! What a glorious thing to know she will forever have her name written in the Book of Life! When I watched her display her faith, it took me back to my own wonderful day and how I felt! Lauren is so special to me! She was so small when I first dated Benny. I would always like playing w/ her on Sunday nights. Now I have watched her grow into a young girl who loves the Lord. I know a lot of this is because she has a wonderful mom and dad! April, my sis in law, is an incredible mom! April, I am so GLAD God gave you to me as a sister-in-law! You encourage me and you are such a Godly women of the Lord! Lauren is so lucky to have you on her side! The day was perect and the kids got to play outside! Lauren, I am so proud of you! I will continue to pray for the Godly woman you will become! God has great plans for your life!! I love you!!

Random Thoughts

2009-02-06T13:48:00.004-06:00

Art project!

Sally's turn to draw!

My sweetie's before church!

Look at little Sally's grin!

Our picnic at the park!

I love my kids so much! What parent or mom doesn't want to love and give everything to their kids? Today after putting them down for a nap I got outside and did my prayer time. I was reading in 1 Peter 1:6-9. Adversity is a part of life. And boy it is no fun! In my Sunday school lesson from Charles Stanley's "The Extraordinary Life", Dr. Stanley points out how we go thru our trials affects our children. How do they see us react? Do we buckle or do they see us standing strong in our faith, trusting God to teach us, love us, and strengthen us? I sure hope I can try and give them the latter. What I do and how I react affects them as well. Staying at home some days drives me crazy! I wanna scream and leap out the door into a sprint when Benny gets home! But really, I love these little souls with all I have in me! I miss them even when they are napping! I just hope I can slow down and just soak up every little detail of our days together. This week I have done more crafts, read more books, played chase till I almost suffocated from wearing that Batman mask, and hugged them a little tighter. God has truly blessed me and Benny. I hope we can model the hope that only God can grant us. Until then, we will keep those fun times coming!

February Memory Verse!

2009-02-03T10:39:00.002-06:00

Thank God Beth Moore has encouraged so many women to take part in hiding God's word in their hearts! I am enjoying the challenge and love that I can now say 3 verses! More than that, they have penetrated my heart. I am learning to cleave to them and say them to remind myself who is really in control of my life! God's word is a beautiful love song to me in grief, happiness, and celebration! Here is my 3rd verse for the year!

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies mever come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness". Lamentations 3:22-23

I really love how God has revealed each of the verses to me. It has been like a gentle whisper in my quiet time. I am very serious to really ASK God which one he wants me to memorize. I feel it is also something I need at that time to claim and remember His promises. Great is thy faithfulness! Thank the Lord they are new every morning! And His mercy? WOW! I sure don't deserve it!

2009-01-30T12:57:00.002-06:00

Since the passing of my Grandma I have spent so much time at home the last few weeks. Heidi, who was my Grandma's exchange student from Brazil, got to make it in time before she passed. I love Heidi and miss her so much. She now lives in Boston. We got to spend some time together as she and her 2 precious kids came down and stayed at my mom's house. My Grandma loved her so much! She is my sister! I am so thankful for my family. My mom and I have the most special bond ever! We are so close, like sisters! But we are sister in Christ! We have shared our growth in the Lord together. I cannot express how much I love her! I think she knows! How truly blessed I am to call her my mom!

Pajama Day

2009-01-30T12:52:00.002-06:00

Here is a pic of Kole going to school for "Pajama Day". Kate also wanted to get in the pic! My baby boy is growing up so fast! He loves school !

Meal Making

2009-01-30T12:39:00.004-06:00

Finished product!!

Me putting on the turkey pepporoni

Sprinkling the pizzas w/ cheese

Pizza w/ sauce and turkey pepperoni

I have loved my friend Niki's blog for the last month. She is sharing recipes and giving great ideas on managing your household w/ cleaning tips, meal planning, and organizing the home! She is a dietician, so her recipes are very low calorie and healthy! I have tried several of them and they are so good! So I wanted to share one of my favorite meals I created that is also very healthy!

Tambrey's Mini Pizzas:
Take mission carb-control tortillia wraps and place pizza sauce on top, then place turkey pepperoni on top. Last sprinkle part- skim milk based mozzerella cheese. Place on baking stone @ 400 and for around 20 minutes. I have included the before and after pics! So yummy! My kids love them, too. I like my tortillas to be a little crispy on the edges! Enjoy!

2009-01-27T07:01:00.002-06:00

Opal Pearl Tolar, my grandma, went to be with the Lord last night around 7:30pm. She is in heaven now and is leaping around the streets of gold! She is joining my precious papaw, my Aunt Brenda, and her own parents. She went in peace and we are grateful. Someone told me a beautiful vision: "When she took her last breath on earth, she took her FIRST breath in heaven, and she saw Jesus FACE TO FACE". How awesome is that to think about? I love you, Grandma. I will see you one day soon!

Memories Of my Grandmother

2009-01-19T14:51:00.004-06:00

These past serveral days I have been home. I packed up the kids last Wedensdy morning as Benny had to work. My Grandma Tolar has taken a turn for the worse. I am going to be honest, I am not ready. I wasn't ready 6 days ago and I am not ready now. My heart is broken. I have loved this women as long as I can remember, and she has loved me back! I don't have one single memory that does not include her. My childhood is filled w/ the sweetest memories and of course hesterical laughter. FUN! If I could describe her in one word, that is it! So as I drove home last Wednesday, and then back to Crossett today, I am overwhelmed. These last few days I have looked into the eyes of a very frail, sick, tender, and beautiful women of God. Her eyes still shine. We have been by her bed constantly, recalling great times and tender moments. As I have had some time to reflect, here is a list of things I don't want to forget, Grandma.

** Taking us to the cotton fields to pick cotton and stomp down the cotton in the bins
** Warm afternoon naps on your homeade quilts
** Your wonderful fudge
** Your banana pudding
** Homeade clothes you made me
**Our life-sized dolls. Actually, all the dolls you made
**The smell of your house when I walk in the door
**You telling me about Jesus when I was 8. Best day of my life!
**How you and I cried as I told the church I was saved!!
**Giving me advice about boys
**Letting me "run away from home" to your house
**the mattress under your bed that we slept on as kids. I even slept there on that thing when I was 9 months pregnant!
**Bloody bones stories
**Those wild sleepovers! How did you manage all 5 of us girls?
**Saturday night sleepovers! I even continued this as a teenager!
**Your warm hugs
**That silly stocking you put on your head and we all thought you were a burgular and cried and ran! You scared me to death!
**Loving me unconditionally

Please pray as she enters the gates of heaven to spend eternity w/ our Lord. I honestly am not ready. The selfish side of me is not accepting this at all. So as I listen to Jeremy Camp's "There will be a Day", I am comforted. I know what is on the other side of this life. I am so glad to know my Grandma prayed for me to know Jesus and set a wonderful example on how to love the Lord like she did. And she gave me a wonderful mother! Yes Grandma, there will be a day, and I will see your face again! I love you!

2009-01-19T14:41:00.003-06:00

I have been praying again really hard about what to memorize for my 2nd verse of the month. I have fallen in love w/ 3 great verses. But after much prayer, this is the one God has laid on my heart:

Jeremiah 15:16

"Your words were found and I ate them,

and Your words became to me a joy and the

delight of my heart,

for I am called by Your name,

O LORD, God of hosts."

I remember the first time I read this verse, and howI realized the Word of God is alive and thriving! We are called to love the word, meditate on it, love it, not let it depart from our heart or minds. When we fully study and reflect on God's word, it becomes alive in us! And it does become the joy and delight of our hearts! How thankful I am that I have God's word to go to daily and let it minister to me in my times of need! Praise the Lord!!

Post Holiday Blues 10k

2009-01-10T17:02:00.007-06:00

Melissa and I after the run!

My cheer team!

Kole said, "Mommy, you can do it!"

Before race pic!

Pushing to the finish!

This morning we loaded up the kiddos and headed to Monroe! Mommy had a 10k to run! The weather settled nicely after a thunderstorm scare and the temps were in the mid 60's! Man, I thought this was January? Melissa, a friend who I work w/ at the Wellness center, joined me in the run! The course was so beautiful and took us thru Forsythe Park. I haven't ran a 10k since 2002, so I just wanted to finish! Again, I praise God that I have my prasie music when I run. It is my time to really let out my thoughts, feelings, and prayers. I was so in the presence of my God! I ended up feeling great and looked down to my horror to realize I forgot to turn on my Garmin! My finish time was 53:20. I even won 2nd place in my age and got a cool bag. The best part was at the end when I came upon the finish and saw my 2 beautiful kids, smiling and waving at me, and my precious husband grinning ear-to-ear. What a time to praise the Lord for all He has done!

Anybody Game??

2009-01-05T06:36:00.005-06:00

I have made the commitment. I have focused my eyes on the prize! What am I talking about? Beth Moore has challenged all ladies to give God our minds as we renew them by memorizing scripture and claiming God's promises! On her blog, she has asked ladies all over the world to join in this commitment. All you have to do is memorize 2 scriptures a month totally 24 in a year. So far almost 3,000 women have joined the challenge. I have spent the last 3-4 days praying over what scipture to start with, and well, here it is!

PSALMS 19:14
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, My Rock, and My Redeemer.

I love this verse! So all you blogging friends out there, are you game? Wanna join me in memorizing God's word? Comment and let me know what scripture God has placed on your heart!! I know this will be a great blessing like no other! Come on, join me!!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T15:25:00.007-06:00

2009! What? Where is time going? I mean REALLY? We celebrated New Year's by getting to sneak off to Monroe overnight. Thanks Nana for keeping the kids! Benny and I w/ to see "Marley and Me" which I had been wanting to see for weeks! It was so good! Then we joined our close friends, Brian and Jenni, for dinner at the Brandyhouse. The food was so good and I finished off a delightful strawberry cheesecake! After all that hard work eating so much, Jen and I were tired so we all headed to the our rooms. Ben and I stayed up to watch the New Year ball drop. Getting to sleep in was so nice! When we got back home all I could do was hug my kids and remember again why I am so glad I am a mom and wife. The two greatest jobs I have ever had. I don't believe in resolutions, but I have set some goals this year I hope to achieve. Hope all of you have a great new year!

Christmas in Branson!

2008-12-29T13:35:00.003-06:00

After enjoying our toys from Santa, we meet up with my parents and headed to Branson! We stayed @ our favorite place so we could enjoy the indoor swimming park! We swam a lot! We went to Silver Dollar City and rode rides all day on Friday. The weather was so warm! We went shopping at Tanger outlets, had lunch @ Branson Landing, and then Saturday night went to the Dixie Stampede. It was Kate's first time and she LOVED it! We sure were glad to go in such nice weather! Can't wait till next year!

Waking Up To Santa

2008-12-29T13:29:00.002-06:00

You guys were so excited about Santa coming! You both slept in Christmas morning. You must have been pretty good this year b/c you got exactly what you asked for! I love the look of sleepy kids on Christmas. I was so happy your mamaw and grandaddy got to share it w/ us!

Christmas w/ the Kinleys

2008-12-29T13:04:00.003-06:00

We traveled to Conway for Christmas. It was so good to be there and visit w/ so many friends and family. I miss the people so much! We had our BIG Christmas w/ family on Christmas Eve. Then that night Kole and Kate wrote notes to Santa and we sat out cookies and milk. Kole made some reindeer food @ school so we sprinkled it out on the lawn before going to bed! Kole got a new bicycle! Kate got a Loving Family dollhouse! It was a perfect Christmas!

Kate's Party

2008-12-29T12:52:00.002-06:00

We celebrated your 2 year party in Conway on December 21st @ Jump Zone. We invited a few friends. You were so into the slides and would go down and up all by yourself! You had a Dora cake and got some really cool toys! Happy Birthday baby girl!

Thoughts Of Christmas

2008-12-24T20:25:00.003-06:00

It is Christmas Eve night and I sit here in silence as the kids are nestled in bed anxiously awaiting Santa and our trip to Branson tomorrow. We had an eventful
4 days in Conway this week! Today we spent with family doing the tradition meal and the kids opening presents and playing outside till they were wore out! While I sit here writing, I can't help but think of the Christmas story. Based in Luke's account in verses 1-2:20, we see so many great things the Lord included in the miracle of Christ's birth. A young virgin worthy of being mother to the Son of God, a simple Jewish man believing and trusting God to be a father to the Christ, an older and barren women finally being blessed in her latter years to have a son, and the ordinary shepards being the FIRST to know Jesus has been born in a manger. So many miracles! Such a precious story! What it means to me is that I know God is so loving and so full of GRACE that He would allow His own flesh and blood to be wrapped in human form to come and save the world. I am just in awe of the love of the Father. I am so gracious and so overwhelmed with the love of my Savior. That He would leave His heavenly glory and come to earth to take on the cloak of human flesh and live in this sinful world just to show the love He has for mankind. May each of you know His salvation and love this Christmas season! Oh yes, what a holy night it was so long ago!!

Kate is 2 !

2008-12-21T06:40:00.005-06:00

My precious little girl! You entered this life with fire and passion. I cannot grasp in my mind it has been 2 years ago! Your whole pregnancy and delivery was so much easier than Kole's. You just grabbed our hearts and came into our lives this little bundle of joy wrapped up in 5 pounds and 7 ounces! Little thing! You have evolved into this little spunky, sweet, independent, and sassy little soul. I say that with love! I look at you and wish for you so many days of happiness. And lots of blessings! You favorite things righ now: Good Night Moon book, your blankie, MILK, cho cho milk (chocolate milk), Cinderella, Ariel, the movie Elf, and stolen kisses from mommy. You truly enjoy pestering Kole, but you are always hugging and snuggling up in your new big girl bed. He loves you so much! My prayer for you, my sweet child, is that you will grow up healthy, kind, compassionate, and full of zeal! You will be hopelessly in love w/ Jesus! He is your Prince Charming, the only one in this life who will love you w/ all His heart and give you happiness. In is love you will desire nothing more than to tell others the good news. He will never fail you! I also pray you will have the deep love and relationship I have w/ your Nana. She and I are so close. I pray you and I have that trust and love, too. Happy Birthday! Can't wait till your party tomorrow!

Christmas Dinner w/ Friends

2008-12-20T06:26:00.003-06:00

We had dinner the other night @ Ashley and Wes's home. The dinner was terriffic w/ a wonderful Italian pasta w/ chicken, garlic bread, and salad! She also had my favorite, red velvet cake! YUMMY! Our great friends Jenni and Brian were there. Can I just say that my abs hurt all night from laughing so hard! Can u tell from the pics? We always have a BLAST together! We went looking at Christmas lights to finish the night off! There is nothing greater than food, fun, and fellwoship!

My 33rd Birthday!

2008-12-18T14:07:00.003-06:00

Can I just say I am BLESSED! I awoke this morning from a great night's sleep to a beautiful little girl rubbing my hand and a little boy whispering, "Happy Birthday, Momma". The day has been filled w/ sweet calls, cards, and text. My precious husband came home to let me go to lunch w/ some friends. We had a great time! I took a pic of all the gifts which I did not expect! 2 sweet gals who come to yoga got me an hour massage!!! If you can see in the pic, there is a black Bible laying there! Benny and the kids got me the new ESV (English Standard Version) Bible! I have been wanting and wishing for it the moment I saw it in Lifeway! They gave it to me early so I could teach out of it Sunday! IT ROCKS!! I can't put it down! Thanks to all of you for the phone calls, text, gifts and cards. What a great day it has been so far! P.S. When I went to yoga class they had bought me a cake! How precious they are! As you can see I had them help me eat it! YUMMY!!

Christmas Cookies & Such

2008-12-18T13:58:00.002-06:00

We had a candlelight communion last night and I had to make Christmas cookies for the fellowship afterwards! Kole, you are my cookie-dough lover! Couldn't get you to stop eating them! Kate, as you can see, loves cookie-dough, too! Kole wanted me to post a pic of his and Kate's tree. Daddy threw away our family tree by mistake when we moved from Conway. So they only have trees in their room! (No, I am not a scrooge, but we are going to be away for Christmas).

Kole and Kate's Christmas Pics!

2008-12-16T17:53:00.002-06:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!! ONLY 9 DAYS TILL CHRISTMAS!

Kole Sings!

2008-12-12T12:47:00.003-06:00

Kole, you have been sick all week! But you got better late yesterday just in time to go to the bank to sing w/ your class @ Wee School. You guys quoted verses, sang some songs, and sang "Happy Birthday" to Jesus! Santa and Mrs. Claus were there! We also got to eat some fabulous treats supplied by the bank! What a great way to get into the holiday spirit!

Sunday School Party

2008-12-10T07:41:00.002-06:00

I love to fellowship! Last night we had our Sunday School Christmas class party @ Janey's house! Everyone brought their favorite sweet/salty snack! The food was fabulous! There was a chocolate fondue, poppy seed chicken dip, cranberry cake from Southern Living, toffee bars, and the list goes on! I think we all ate till we could pop! Each of these ladies are so beautiful. They are strong Christian women who are encouraging and kind. They have a heart for God's people. I am honored to be a part of them. We are called to "spur one another on" in this life. I am blessed to have them as my sisters!

2008 St. Jude 1/2 Marathon

2008-12-08T07:43:00.003-06:00

"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and all your plans will succeed". Prov. 16:3

This year's 1/2 was amazing! It was really cold! I was able to ride to Memphis w/ my girls from Conway. We had such a nice visit! Shelly and Alisha did their first 1/2 and did amazing! Crossett was represented well with all the girls doing so well on their races. I ran alone in body, but had Jesus right beside me in spirit! And boy did He pull me through! I got a little tired around mile 9, but Jesus kept whispering to me I could do it! It also helped having my wonderful praise and worship music! Thank God for Travis Cottrell's "Jesus Saves" and "Your Word Is Life To Me". It really had me dig deep @ the last 2 miles! I ended up completing my goal of 1:58.56. It was all God! He carried me through that cold run! I just want to praise Him and give Him the glory! I saw so many people running in memory of a child, and some had the most inspiring scripture to keep me going! Can't wait till next year!

Kole's 4th Birthday!

2008-11-29T18:48:00.002-06:00

We had your birthday this year @ Crossett Fire Station! I was so happy to have all our family here! Nana, Paps, Grandaddy, Mamaw, Uncle Kenny, Aunt April, Lauren, Ashlyn, and Luke! Also your friends Gage and Anna Kate from school! We toured the fire station and we even got to go in it for a spin around the neighborhood! Then we went back home and had cake and ice cream! YUMMY! You got Hal the Moose from Build-a-Bear, Cars game, Batman car, Kung Fu Panda movie w/ jammies, a wallet w/ some money, a crazy car, and an ESPN batting station. I can't believe you are 4! Hope you had a great day!

Thanksgiving Reflections

2008-11-25T17:30:00.005-06:00

We are called so many times in the Bible to be thankful. No matter the circumstance, hardship, or situation, we should reflect on it and give thanks! This week during my quiet time God has shown me so many wonderful things I know I have taken for granted and forgot to thank Him. Here is my list!

1) My salvation! How truly grateful I am that I have a Father who knows every hair on my head, is aware of every tear I cry, and listens to me. Even though I am still sinful! He cares about my needs, loves me when I rebel, and gently seeks me when I am busy w/ life. He is my Abba Father, my Papa, my Jehovah-rapha, El Roi, my El Shaddai! I am nothing without you!

2) My husband! How blessed am I to have a husband who shares a love for Christ. We are so CLOSE! We tell each other everything. Lately I have been blessed to experience how protective and loving he is! And boy do we laugh!! Our communication is so key. We are each other's biggest fan. I love him so much!

3) My kids! God blessed me with 2 of the most beautiful, sweet, silly, and compassionate kids. Kole, you have this silly side but are so compassionate to others. You suprise me w/ your wisdom of Christ! Your teachers and our church are so helping you become the man God desires you to be. And Kate! My precious daughter! Spunky and sassy, you are so incredibly sweet even when the tantrums start! My desire for you is to fall head over heels for Christ.

4) My health! God has given me good health! I am so blessed I can be active and do the things I do. I love my job at the wellness center. I couldn't run if it weren't for having my health.

"Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving.." Psalm 95:2a

Meeting Avalon

2008-11-20T13:57:00.005-06:00

Ok, I had to post this picture because it makes me laugh! I went to Jackson, MS 2 weeks ago to Extradinary Women conference. We heard from speakers like Chonda Pierce, Karen Kingsbury (I got to meet and have her sign "Let Me Hold You Longer" which is a tear-jerker for a mommy), Thelma Wells, and Angela Thomas. We got to hear Mark Schultz and Avalon! I was so pumped to get in line to met Avalon! They signed my program, and then I got in a pic with them. The other female singer was not able to sign autographs. They told me I could be the 4th member, and I reminded them they wouldn't want to hear my pipes! It TOTALLY looks like I was "photo-shopped" in the picture! Makes me laugh! What do you think?

Kole's Thanksgiving Lunch

2008-11-18T15:49:00.002-06:00

Wee School did a little program w/ the kids singing a few Thanksgiving songs and then did some scripture! I was so proud of you, sweetheart! Then we got to eat a great Thanksgiving lunch w/ ham, green beans, corn, rolls, and dressing. All mom's brought dessert! It was so DIVINE!! Kole even made the placemats! Kole, I am so thankful for you! What a precious bond you and I have as mom and son. You make me and daddy so proud of you! I am so glad you like school so much!(thanks Melissa for keeping Kate so daddy and mommy could spend time w/ Kole)

Keeping Up w/ Kate

2008-11-18T15:23:00.005-06:00

Kate! You are a bundle of energy! You follow me everywhere wanting to do what I do! I was getting ready this week and you put on my headband and went around saying"Wook, Mommy, Wook!" And you would twirl. Precious girl! Love you to pieces! I also had to include the precious pic of you sleeping! This is the last in your bed, my princess. Next week you will move to your "big girl" bed and furniture. I want to always remember you like this!

Kole's Fall Festival

2008-11-12T14:43:00.002-06:00

Yesterday I helped with other mommies at Kole's school with the Fall Festival. We set up games and each class came through to play! There was a pumpkin roll, fishing games, tatoos, bowling, golf, etc. Kole sure did like going to each activity! Thes kids were super funny! Kole said his favorite game was rolling the pumpkin.

The Shack

2008-11-04T18:44:00.004-06:00

Have you ever read a book that changed your ideas or thoughts? Maybe it gave a different perspective for you? I am reading The Shack by WM. Paul Young. It is so AMAZING! I don't want to give away the plot, but it is one of those books you read and want to read again. The question it poses is "in a world where religion seems to grow increasingly irrelevant, The Shack wrestles with the timeless question: WHERE IS GOD in a world so filled with unspeakable pain?" I picked it up at Lifeway Saturday and have been hooked since! It has truly broaden my thoughts of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. I have come away with life lessons and a deeper respect for the way God speaks to His children when they are hurting. The way God loves us is amazing! So if you want a good read, get this book! I recommend it to anyone who has suffered a loss, a bad trial, or you are going thru a rough patch. I have laughed, cried, gotten chills, and rejoiced! It is truly a story of God's grace and love for us!

Happy Boo To You!

2008-10-31T20:36:00.002-05:00

Halloween 2008! Kole and I have been counting down the days to eat unlimited amounts of candy till we can't eat anymore! We went to Walmart and picked out our pumpkin. Daddy came home early and we carved it. Then it was off to the library for fun/games/etc. Kole won the cupcake walk! Then we went to see some friends in our neighborhood. We meet @ the Murphy's and walked around to the houses. Kole and the kids were so funny! They would run so fast that us parents couldn't keep up! You guys looked so precious! Kate just loved her daddy carrying her on his shoulders! We had a super time! What a great night!

Fall Festival @ 1st Baptist Crossett

2008-10-30T09:15:00.006-05:00

Our church held its annual Fall Festival last night! Kole and Kate dressed up in Razorback attire! Our Sunday school class read the Parable of the Pumpkin. There was lots of candy and games. I loved Anna Kate's "Raggedy Ann" costume. I included a pic of my sista Beth (in khaki jumpsuit). She is a gem. And then there is Cheryl! She is going to kill me for putting her on my blog! I am so thankful for the wonderful church family we have! We are blessed!

Fun at Nana & Paps

2008-10-30T09:09:00.002-05:00

My dad made Kole and Kate a "hayride" this weekend! Kole liked it, but Kate was not so sure! We went to "Boofest" and Kole got to play games and get candy! We love being w/ Nana and Paps! Thanks for the wonderful weekend and the great food!

I Have Been Tagged!

2008-10-24T07:53:00.006-05:00

I am not one to do these things, but thought it would be fun as I have enjoyed reading everyone else's! I am supposed to list 7 random or weird things about myself! Here it goes!

1) I am MOORE-ITE! That is, I am all about Beth Moore. I love her studies. Done all 10 of them. Some 2-3 xs! I have seen her 3x's in person. Never meet her, but would be in "an earthly heaven" if I got the chance to talk with her. Her passion for Christ is so contagious! I read her blog daily. What an inspiration she is to me. I feel like she and I are the best of friends! (**CHECK OUT HER BLOG!! ESTHER IS ABOUT TO COME OUT!!)

2) I have to drink hot green tea or take a pill to sleep. My brain goes non-stop. I am constantly moving, never sitting still. At night I will sleep 4 hours, then will be awake. If I don't sip hot green tea before bed, then I take Tylenol Severe Allergy to help me breath and rest better!

3) I go to bed most nights @ 9pm! (I get up @ 4:45am)

4) I got Kole's name from a movie! Remember Tom Crusie in Days of Thunder? His character name was Cole Trickle. I changed the spelling to go w/ our last name!

5) I am a YOGI!! I love yoga! It is the best thing I do for myself and my body. I teach 3x a week. I love reading all the benefits for your mind, body, soul. I have imporved my running b/c of it.

6) I let Benny highlight my hair! I was so nervous 2 weeks ago, but he did a good job pulling it through the cap! Anything to save a buck!

7) I LOVE to teach. It is my passion! I used to teach 2nd grade before staying home. Now I teach yoga, weights, spin, and bootcamp. But my real passion is teaching God's word. I have the awesome privledge to teach Sunday School every week to women my age at First Baptist Crossett. Since taken on this duty, God has sifted me like wheat, loved me, pruned me, and given me a desire for His Word. I can't go thru my day without talking and praying to Christ.

Okay friends! Now it is time to tag you all! I tag Beth, Julie, Anita, Carri, Keri, Tera, Heather, Beth Moore(like she reads my blog! Ha), Leslie, Ellen, Autumn and anyone else I forgot! YOU ARE TAGGED!!!

My Kate-ee-doo

2008-10-21T16:41:00.004-05:00

That is what Kole calls you! When he is at school it gives me extra time with you! There are so many ways to describe my little girl. Here are a few things I want to remember about you!

1) You have the most adorable laugh! Strangers in stores will cackle at you. You are such a ham!

2) Explorative! You want to explore everything w/ out hesitation. I think you are brave. For a girl, you are pretty bold at not letting anything or anyone stand in your way! You love dirt! You play in it all the time and I get such a kick seeing you covered in it! Little tomboy!

3) Independent! Oh boy! Am I going to have some adventures with you! You want to do things your way. No help from mommy! You take the reigns on things. That is a sign of a true leader!

4) Loving! You so love your mommy! In the mornings you will call out loudly"MOMMA! MOMMA! and then reach for me w/ this sweet little smile. When I pick you up, you pat my back and squeeze me tight! (you are so into your daddy when he gets home!)

I took these pics of you drawing today w/ your chalk. Love you little Kate-ee-doo!

Saxtons Visit

2008-10-19T16:25:00.003-05:00

My dear friend Melinda, from Conway, came to see us for a short visit this week! Anna Kate, Jay, Kole and Kate had a great time playing! They even had their first official"bunk" in our playroom! Not one time did they get up! They did awake around 6:30! We had a great time and hope they come back for a visit soon!

Hardin Farms Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-14T11:26:00.003-05:00

Julie and I packed up the kiddos for a drive to Grady, Arkansas. Being from Conway we have always gone to Greenbrier or Mayflower's pumpking farms. But this is the best one I have ever seen! The kids played so hard, and we got to learn facts about Arkansas. It was the perfect weather!

The Race

2008-10-11T15:54:00.002-05:00

" I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus". Phil. 3:14

This morning Crossett, Ar put on their first 5K race. I remember just 7 months ago running these streets alone wishing I had friends to run w/ everyday. Jesus heard my heart's plea. 7 months later, as you can see in the pic, God brought some amazing women into my life! 4 of them are training w/ me every Saturday for the 1/2 @ St. Jude. All of them are so unique and love the Lord!! Today I was just so proud of them all! Some of them never raced before, and some of them just STARTED running in April! How awesome is that!! I am just so glad I have all these running buddies! And the friendships are such a blessing! I also did a PR for a 5k!! My time was 25:17, and I won my age group! Melissa, Julie Brooks, Autumn, Ashley, Julie Bridges, and Connie: You are all so amazing! What a joy you are to my life!!! Great job today! Can't wait till next year!!

Happy Boo To You!

2008-10-08T09:22:00.003-05:00

I love taking pics of the kids in the fall! Here is a quick pic of them this morning! They are so excited about trick-or-treating this year. Even though they change their minds a lot, they are still as of now being an Arkansas Razorback football player and cheerleader!

Razorback Night @ Awanas

2008-10-07T18:13:00.004-05:00

Benny and I are loving helping w/ the Awana program at our church! We have 3rd and 4th graders. Here is a pick of some of the girls in my grade. Also, there is a pic of me and Janet! She is a great friend who I just adore!

Running w/ the Lord

2008-10-05T20:01:00.003-05:00

I have ran now for over 8 years and it is never easy! This week as we did our long run, we all decided to go ahead and listen to our ipods since we were doing 10 miles. My run was 12.5, and I have to say that I had some great fellowship with the Lord God Almighty! My EL ROI, the God who sees, showes me something amazing each time I do my long run! I was listening to Travis Cottrell's "Your Word is Life To Me'', and all of a sudden a shooting star! It was the GOD-show! I love when He shows me something wonderful like that. The time went fast and I loved every minute of my time with Him. And Julie and Ashley did so good! They accomplished the big 1o-miler! God is blessing us! I just love running with the Lord!

Kole and Mommy's Date

2008-10-02T16:08:00.005-05:00

Kole and I had some time together this Saturday beofer a party. We went shopping for a present and hung out! He is such a great boy! I love having special time with him!

My Precious Girls!

2008-09-30T20:49:00.003-05:00

God sure knows how to bring the most wonderful people in my life. He did just that and more when He gave me Shelly, Alisha , and Amy. I love these girls! Last Friday we went to see "FIREPROOF" w/ our hubbies! When we are together, there is so much laughter! We can laugh, cry, share our most intimate struggles, and still have this amazing presence within us that knows we are joined together by the special bond only God can give any relationship! I love these women with all my heart and soul! We are soul sistas!! AMEN! How grateful am I to be lucky enough to have them in my corner! I love you girls!!