The Singing Banker

PEACE OUT HOMIES!

2009-01-19T16:51:00.001-06:00

Well...I'm no longer a banker...and you can't really use blogger in the land that I'm moving to...so, I guess this is goodbye???

Weird.

Pac Man and the Mrs...

2009-01-14T08:59:00.001-06:00

Hop on over to our family blog to check out our support raising so far.

I should not be allowed to play on the computer...

2009-01-11T16:16:00.003-06:00

THIS IS AN "I'M AN IDIOT AND I'M SORRY" FACE FOR EVERYONE:

I've been a PC girl for most of my adult life. When Justin is working, I get to play around on the mac.

Well, I pulled a stereotypical "Shelli" today. Kind of like the time I emailed out our newsletter in a GIGANTIC format that slowed about 200 people's computers down.

Yuck! I hate technology. But, I'm learning...

Anyway...I was setting up an "auto reply" from our home email address today to let people know that we'll no longer be using that address beginning in February and that they should delete it from their files.

Well...just by clicking one teeny tiny little "yes" button...it went ahead and sent that "auto reply" message to about 100 email messages that were sitting in our inbox because my hubby doesn't like to delete them.

If you were one of those people that got a random email from our home email address today that said "Hi...our email address has changed...blah blah blah", I'm really really sorry. And, if you had more than 1 email message sitting in our inbox...you probably received about 5 gazillion of those "auto reply" emails.

AAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!! SORRY.

Ch...Ch...CHANGES!!

2009-01-08T11:22:00.004-06:00

"Turn and face the strain. Ch..Ch...CHANGES". Thank you David Bowie.

Well, its official. I put in my notice at the bank and my last day to be "The Singing Banker" will be Friday, January 16th 2009. Yes folks, its true. I will no longer be balancing other folks check books or making loans to folks who can't pay back the folks that gave them the money.

Most people know that I've never been a banker at heart, so this is a big new adventure for me. I've been in banking since January of 2002 and my last day will be just over my offical 7 year aniversary in this profession. I've worked at 3 banks total and not a single one has made me happy.

Sure, I've loved the folks I've worked WITH...but the job? I never liked the job. And, so...now, I'm ready to bow out and move on. I'm pumped for a new adventure in life. One that includes a very very very tight budget and lots of soy sauce.

Oh...and I cleaned up my side bar a bit. If you haven't blogged in over a year, I took you off. Its the spring cleaning rule of one year. If you haven't worn in over a year...THROW IT OUT. (Not our friendship...just the blog.)

...and sometimes reality kicks you square in the pants.

2009-01-01T22:00:00.002-06:00

I've been a bit out of touch with reality lately. With the holiday mumbo-jumbo and support raising and trying to sell everything I own...one just sometimes gets a bit out of touch with reality.

Reality hit VERY hard today.

Justin and I have some dear dear friends who we love like family. They have three amazing children and their baby (an 11 year old boy) has come down with encephilitis (I totally botched the spelling of that) which is swelling of the interior portion of the brain.

I'm assuming here: It, like its "outer brain" cousin Menengitis, can come in a bacterial form (very treatable) and a viral form (deadly).

Our sweet friend has the viral form and has been writhing in pain for a couple of weeks now.

The swelling has caused pressure on his nervous system and is causing his entire body to cramp and his muscles to draw up.

Justin and I (along with our friend Gennie), having the day off and feeling that we want to do SOMETHING, decided to take New Years day to go to Childrens Hospital in Little Rock to visit the little guy and just spend the day praying over him.

We spent most of the day in the waiting room, reading the word...praying specific prayers over him and his family...and speaking scriptural truths over him. We had no real intention of actually going into his room or even seeing his family. We know that they've had a lot of visitors and may not have time to dedicate to us. And they shouldn't. We planned on being in the background during the day.

...however...we were blessed to spend a small amount of time with the Mom and Dad. Dad was on his way out to spend some (much needed) time away and Mom was taking her shift with her sister-in-law to help massage her little ones legs and back when he cramped up.

She said that, if we wanted to, we could go in and see him one at a time. Gennie and I just ended up standing outside his door and praying for him and for clarity and wisdom for the medical staff.

Justin went in to pray directly over him and had the opportunity to serve the family by helping out when he was cramping up.

The moaning, shaking and obvious pain he is in was almost too much for ME to handle. I can only imagine what his family is going through.

Obviously, I've left their names out of this blog to protect their identity and confidentiality...but, if you can...RIGHT NOW...say a prayer for this little boy.

We are Christians and believe strongly in the power of prayer and that the Lord God is still healing people today. Please pray for a miracle. This little guy has a long hard battle...

Our support info...thus far.

2008-12-19T09:55:00.001-06:00

Who needs fancy charts…when you have Pacman and Mrs. Pacman? Right??

So, here you go: a visual representation of where we are in our support raising goals. As you can see…Pacman and Mrs. Pacman are still VERY VERY hungry and would like to open their mouths wider.

If you are praying about the possibility of supporting us, would you consider taking that leap of faith now? We need our monthly support to start coming in for January.

"Life Sale"...when "garage sale" just doesn't cut it.

2008-12-12T15:39:00.000-06:00

So...with moving overseas comes a need to sell EVERYTHING you own. (Save four suitcases full of clothes, some technology and necessities.) But, besides THAT?...everything we own is for sale.

Its a bit of a wake up call too. I mean...does one REALLY need 8 throw blankets in Arkansas? NO!

Does one REALLY need hot rollers for their hair that they haven't used since college? DEFINITELY NO!

CD's? No!

Books? No!...ok, maybe.

Two cars for a two person family? DEFINITELY NOT!!! (Our 2002 Honda CRV is for sale)

Tons of clothes? Spare bedroom set? Kitchen gadgets and gizmo's?

The list goes on and on and on. So...what does that mean? FOLKS, WE'RE HAVIN' A LIFE SALE. (Date TBD)

If you've been to our house, start making a mental note of something YOU may want to purchase, and let us know. We'll be happy to take your offer and give you first "dibs".

Ok, that's it.

...and seriously. Our 2002 Honda CRV is for sale NOW. So, pass the word around.

"Fat day" + nothing to wear = LOTS OF TEARS!

2008-11-23T18:23:00.004-06:00

So, If you're slightly overweight (or maybe even if you're not) you know what I mean by "having a fat day". *

When these episodes occur in my life...WATCH OUT. There WILL be tears involved.

...add in a little "can't find anything to wear" and you've got the ingredients for a disaster.

That was me last night and this morning. I've realized that in my quest to downsize my wardrobe before moving to Ch*na...I've literally downsized TOO MUCH. I have a handful of warm work (aka: "old lady") clothes but literally, only two thick shirts to wear during the winter months. One is (you guessed it) a "Shelli signature" turtleneck...the other is a fancy sweater dress that looks nice over jeans. But, what about every other day of the week? Aaaaaaagggggggghhhhhhhh!!!

So, what does that mean for me? Purchasing a few new pieces (which is exactly what I don't want to do) or lots of layering.

Layering is all fine and dandy for the average sized person...but on a Plus Size Gal? AHHH HECK NO! You go from chubby to the "Stay Puft Marshmallow Man"...or the "Michelan tire" guy. Take your pick.

AAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!

Sometimes, I just want to starve myself with the single purpose to simply fit in clothes more comfortably.

FAT DAYS STINK!!!!!

* "FAT DAY" = a day that may or may not fall on our around a womans period in which she feels ugly and more "fat" than usual days. I would advise any male to stay away from the female during said day...unless you approach her with wine, chocolates or flowers. Or...all three.

"Sister Jones and the Teal Tones"...

2008-10-31T11:14:00.004-05:00

About 5 days a year…I really LOVE my job.

New Years day (we’re closed)
Christmas day (we’re closed)
Thanksgiving (we’re closed)
Veteran’s day (we’re closed)

…and Halloween because we get to dress up!!!!

Presenting: “Sister Jones and the Teal Tones”
My bank president is the white haired gentleman, the rest are VP’s of lending. I’m the branch manager and a loan officer. So…all the “big wigs” of the branch had some fun this year. Enjoy the pics:

Isn't my hair FABULOUS!!!!!!!!??????

Wiley, Ish, Sneeze and the Jones' (and a Bailey to boot...)

2008-09-28T15:42:00.002-05:00

I haven't updated in awhile. I don't have much to say...but, I'll catch you up.

This last week, Justin and I have been house sitting for our good friends, David and Laura Jackson.

The Jackson's don't have cable...so, it has really encouraged us to read and slow down more this week. Today, we're starting week two. It amazes me how much time I spend watching TV...and I don't realize it until I'm forced to NOT watch it. (They do, however, have an AMAZING movie collection and an awesome movie room.)

Along with forcing us to read and relax more, comes the responsibility of 3 little monsters.

Sneeze the outside cat
Ish the inside cat
and...Wiley the dog

Sneeze pretty much keeps to herself and comes and goes as she pleases.

Ish is a high maintenance kitty that will meow...non stop...for about 1/2 an hour until you pick her up and give her love.

Wiley...OH WILEY!! He's one of the funniest dogs I've ever been around. He's a 3 or 4 year old Boxer. He's all white except for one brown circled eye and a brown ear. SOOOOOO CUTE!!!! And so full of life.

We had the pleasure of our friend Brian Bailey staying with us this weekend while his wife was out of town, and he rented out his condo to some people in for Bikes, Blues and BBQ (an annual festival here in Fayetteville.) Justin and Brian sat in the living room the other night and laughed and cut up for a long time. I think it was good for Justin to be around another guy and just...be.

Speaking of Justin...the dude threw his back out. AGAIN! He does this about once a year. He was moving rugs last week, and BAM! His back went out. He was very lucky that a few friends were there to help him with the rugs and get him on his feet. Poor guy...he's just miserable.

Our house is officially on the market with Kirkland Real Estate here in Fayetteville. We've lowered our asking price and are still offering it partially furnished.

LORD...SELL OUR HOUSE!!!!!!!!! (and the Hirschy's too.)

...a ratta tat tatta tat tatta tattoo...

2008-09-05T22:30:00.004-05:00

Well, here it is folks...MY NEW (and only) TATTOO!!! I'm not exactly a good photographer. Sorry for the slightly fuzzy photos. And I REALLY need a pedicure.

Its in my moms handwriting
Its the nickname my hubby calls me
Its from the scripture Isaiah 52:7...

"How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion,"Your God reigns!"

...SO...what do you think?

The Ball is rolling...

2008-08-28T12:04:00.005-05:00

Can you believe that these two wackos are going to be missionaries? LORD HELP US ALL!

Please take a moment and hop over to our other blog and read up on what is going on in our life right now.

...and please pray for us.

Gray, or not to Gray...that is the question.

2008-08-09T11:10:00.004-05:00

So...in case you haven't noticed (with the exception of the bloggers that have never seen me)...I'M GOING GRAY. I've "chosen" to grow my natural color out since I'm moving to China. I figure that now is a great time to do it. I mean...I don't exactly know if I'll be able to find Loreal's Medium Ash Brown color over there. Plus natural might look FABULOUS on me...and I wont know until I try. Right??

My Dad has really pretty silver hair color. He started going gray when he was in his 20's before I was born. Nevertheless, I've always known my "daddy" to have brown and gray hair. I can remember the transition to a complete silver head of hair when I was about a senior in highschool..when Dad was in his 40's. Before that, he had "salt and pepper".

My Mom has BEAUTIFUL gray...roots. Which I only get to see when she doesn't color her hair fast enough. Now, don't get me wrong, I think my mom is beautiful, but her hair is REALLY over processed and, "I think", I've chosen to avoid that.

I say "I think" because I'm still not completely 100% sold on this idea. Mainly
because, now that my gray hair is starting to REALLY grow out, I'm realizing "HOLY CRAP!!!! I HAVE A TON OF GRAY HAIR!!!!". Serioulsy...I have more than most 50 year old women do naturally.

My husband "claims" that he doesn't care...but, I'm not sure if he's telling the 100% truth. He always says that the only time he'll ever lie to me is if he has a big surprise up his sleeve. I hope he doesn't surprise me with "Honey, your hair is terrible...please change it" after I've been so patient to grow it out. Know what I mean?

My mother-in-law went gray naturally and looked great. So...maybe Justin DOES like gray hair.

...oh well.

Anyway...I'll see if I can get Justin to take a picture up close of the gray roots adorning the crown of my head and I'll post it.

So...give me YOUR opinion. What do you think about a 30 year old going completely gray?

My husband = freakin' awesome.

2008-07-26T13:06:00.003-05:00

My husband and Brian Hirschy have been working their ARRRSSES off on the video that will be used to promote and bring awareness to Tibet and the project we'll be going over their with. You can check out the project here: www.admgllc.com or www.firstasiadevelopment.org

Let me just say that this video is the BEST work I've ever seen of Justins. I know that Brian has been working equally as hard. I guess that the two of them working together in a creative environment = UNSTOPPABLE AWESOMENESS.

Hopefully all will be able to see it soon...

Rug Sale Rug Sale Rug Sale Rug Sale Rug Sale...rug.

2008-07-19T14:21:00.002-05:00

Today and Tomorrow (July 19th and 20th) come by I.O. Metro in Fayetteville (across from the new Malco theater) and check out some new and limited edition Jade Tree Rugs.

THEY'RE ON SALE...SO COME AND PARTAKE OF THE GOODNESS.

FOR SALE: HOME OR INVESTMENT PROPERTY

2008-06-25T16:18:00.001-05:00

My husband Justin and I are selling our Fayetteville townhouse. We’ll probably put a sign in the front lawn around the end of summer, but we wanted to get the word out to our friends and contacts first. If you know of anyone, or are yourself, interested in purchasing a possible investment property about two blocks from the U. of A …this is a great deal.

Here are the specifics:

Two blocks from the University of Arkansas

Asking: $90,000

Approx 900 sq. feet, two story townhome

Part of the “Oakland Townhomes”

New ceramic tile floors

New kitchen countertops

New paint

*Partially furnished living room with furniture less than 3 years old to sell with home

Includes all major appliances (washer/dryer, stove/oven, dishwasher, microwave)

Built 1985

2 total bedrooms

1 total bath (with sky light)

Large kitchen with dining room

Laundry closet

Central heat and air (all electric)

Slab foundation

Reserved parking for two

Privacy fenced in spacious back porch with gate.

Property Owners Association maintained landscaping

POA dues $273 per quarter

Short walking distance to numerous “Razorback transit” stops

We will be available for showings starting July 7th. Please contact us if you would like to see it. We ask that only those serious about purchasing inquire.

Thanks! - Shelli and Justin Jones

* Furniture included is:

- “razorback red” microsuede durable couch
- “razorback red” microsuede durable chair w/ ottoman
- Tan microsuede durable chair with dark wood arms and legs.
- Multi colored floor rug to match furniture
- Small side table w/ lamp.
- 36” color TV

A "Lafe index" of my cousins wedding:

2008-06-21T10:05:00.006-05:00

Last weekend we went to Tulsa for my cousins wedding. Here is a "Lafe Index" of the event:

Number of times I was asked "How come you aint eatin' meat?" at the rehearsal dinner: 4

Number of AWESOME salads we ate at the rehearsal dinner: 1

Number of times the preacher lifted up his steak and blew its smell towards me to distract and make me stumble (we're 'temporary' vegetarians): about 7

Number of times my sister yelled across the table "a MEAT fast???...that ain't a fast": 1

Number of sharks swimming in the tank as the backdrop to the wedding: 8 ?

Number of times I said "Man, the Oklahoma Aquarium smells like fish": too many

Number of times my cousins cousin (from the other side of the family) said "THIS should be 'interesting'" in response to the reality that our mutual cousin was getting married in front of a shark tank: an endless number.

Number of wedding cakes that collapsed on route to the wedding: 1

Number of "stand in" styrofoam cakes in place for the reception: 1

Number of wedding rings dropped in the ceremony: 1

Number of candles that almost fell over during the ceremony: 1

Number of bridesmaids that sneaked up to straighten said candle: 1

Number of times my Uncle Tommy stepped on the back of my cousins wedding dress train: 3

Number of foot prints clearly left on her train: 3

Number of single girls left at the reception to catch the bouquet: 1

Number of times that I've said "Wow, you know...that was a REALLY pretty wedding. My cousin looked gorgeous and it went really well": TONS.

"So you think the Dancing Idol stars are the next top American model comedians with talent?"

2008-06-04T20:27:00.002-05:00

Yah..."So you think the Dancing Idol stars are the next top American model comedians with talent?"...is the name of MY new reality show.

Seriously. There are SO many of these shows now.

Do you remember when there was only one. It was MTV's "Real World". 7 strangers living in a house. The first (and best) season was filmed in New York. Then came LA...and London (which gave the world the actress )...and Chicago...and on and on and on and on. I don't know if is still going or not. I think now, they're hooked on "The Surreal Life".

Point Shelli...get to the point.

Well, I don't really have one. I just think its hilarious that we have so...many...freakin'...reality shows.

Here are the few I could think of:

1. The Real World
2. Survivor
3. American Idol
4. Amazing Race
5. The Mole
6. So you think you can dance.
7. America's Got Talent
8. America's next top model
9. Nanny 911
10. Wife Swap
11. The Surreal Life

...Thats just the ones I could think of right now. And I don't have cable, so WHO KNOWS what I'm missing out there.

And, would you call a home remodeling show (ie: Trading Spaces) a "reality show"? I mean...they're not "living" their life in front of a camera. They're just remodeling a room. Right? So, I say NO.

Ok, thats my random blog for the day.

I love sexual offenders, gossips, homosexuals, liars and the like. (PS. Wanna buy my truck?)

2008-05-25T20:17:00.009-05:00

DID I GET YOUR ATTENTION?

GOOD...! Because God sure got mine this morning at church. (I'll get to truck for sale part at the end)

Do you ever read the bible, or hear a sermon taught from a person that wants nothing more but to make Christs' truth and grace known to the world...and think to yourself "CRAP! I'M SORRY GOD! PLEASE FORGIVE ME!!!! I'm SUCH a loser. Why do you love ME?"

Yah, today was one of 'those' days.

Matt taught on 1 Peter 2:11-12. "11. Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. 12 Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation."

Here's a Cliff Notes version of the sermon:

Love the unloved, the hated.

Don't judge.

Be prepared for when others make fun of you or assume you're "holier than thou" for claiming CHRIST.

Don't take a "when all else fails, run to Christ" attitude. Rather HOLD TIGHT to Christ constantly, because he'll sustain you when all else DOES fail.

Confess your sins...CONSTANTLY! Never let your guard down, because satan is QUICK to move in and wage war in your soul.

AAAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!

I'M SO PATHETIC!!!!!!!!!! I'M NO BETTER THAN THE PREACHERS OF FALSE GOSPELS, THE METH USERS, THE LIARS AND PROSTITUTES! Actually...they're probably better off than I am. God DID say that he would rather us be 'cold or hot, rather than luke warm'. I'm so 'luke warm' its not even funny.

Am I TRULY...100% sold out to Christ? Am I loving those who are hated? Those that are un-loved? The murderers, the homosexuals...the (gasp) pedephiles? I'm no better than they.

I confess:

1. I'm a liar. Yes, I have a tendency to be a drama queen and over exadurate a story time and again. I don't 'think' I just flat out lie...but, I DO over exadurate at times.

2. I'm addicted to food. No laughing matter here folks.

3. I'm a gossip. This is one I've dealt with for a long...long...long time.

4. I'm a Judgy McJudge. I judge others all the time. I judge OTHERS for judging. WHAT'S UP WITH THAT????

CRAP!!!!!!!

Oh...and Our 1995 Ford F-150 is "un-officially / officially" for sale.

Here are the stats:

1995 Ford F-150
140,000 miles
4 wheel drive
Dual gas tank
XLT package
Extended "Super Cab"
Front chrome grill guard
Bed Liner
NADA retail is around $6000, loan value is around $4500. So, we're open to offers.
...and...the most important aspect: It is referred to as "The Floyd"

PS. I took a 4 1/2 hour nap today. Whoa...someone (named Shelli) was tired.

On a happier / less contraversial note (see previous blog)...Well, maybe not HAPPY.

2008-05-21T22:38:00.002-05:00

ummmm....anyone hiring?

My super, awesome, wonderful, handsome, extremely talented, godly, husband Justin is needing a job.

His qualifications include:

Recent graduate with a Bachelors in Communications and minor in photography. (see his photography blog: www.sevenonethreesix.blogspot.com )

Over 12 years of experience as a videographer, producer / editor, graphic designer and commercial script writer.

3 years experience as a sound guy and tech crew manager for our church.

Makes a kick ass margarita and brews his own beer. (ok, now he's starting to sound like an alcoholic. Really...he is NOT! He has MAYBE 3 drinks a week. MAYBE!)

Is a Lion tamer.

...and likes to go turkey hunting with my dad once a year....where he practices said Lion taming.

If you are hiring, or know of a job; please contact us ASAP. His office officially closed today. (long story...but Equity Media Holdings is a bad place to work. They don't like to pay their bills...according to the Arkansas Democrat Gazzette)

Pick up your cross and follow...JOEL OSTEEN??

2008-05-20T21:32:00.005-05:00

UPDATE: I thought maybe I should add this little bit before people continue to read this blog entry. I DO NOT HATE JOEL OSTEEN. I'm not a fan of his, and I think that he may be a little misleading in some of his sermons on what Christianity entails. But, he is a preacher that claims the word of God to be truth. In accordance with the scriptures, when Paul was writing to the Phillipians, chapter 1: "15. It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16. The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.[c] 18. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice".

Ok, now the original blog entry:

This last weekend, my family went trout fishing. Its become an annual tradition. Justin and I go along to enjoy fun times with the fam...but getting up at 5am to go fishin' just isn't our cup of tea. Know what I mean?

My sister and I have a few things in common FOR SURE...singing at the top of our lungs (in beautiful harmony) and making jokes about our crazy family.

However, I discovered this last weekend that my sister and I have one thing that we DEFINITELY don't agree on...JOEL "I'm not gonna say that Larry" OSTEEN. She loves him...I loathe him. Ok, that may be a bit harsh. I "don't care too much for his choice in words and teachings".

If you don't know what "I'm not gonna say that Larry" is referring to, I would encourage you to google the Larry King Live episode when he interviewed Mr. Osteen. Larry King point blank asked Joel Osteen "...do you believe that a belief in Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven?" His response was "Well, I don't want to say that. I don't want to say who WILL or WILL not go to heaven. That is for God to choose and judge."

He DID say that he believes that the bible is true and what it says is true. He just kind of danced around the subject and did not want to judge someone and say that they aren't going to heaven. He's right on the fact that it is Gods choosing and judgement. However, God CHOSE to put in scripture that "...no man shall come to the Father except through me." That's pretty clear.

Osteen is pastor to the largest church in the nation. I went to his website today to read in depth about their beliefs or "mission statement". I also wanted to see what this multi million dollar church is doing in the ways of global missions.

Lakewood churches mission statement is short basic and is pretty much the nicene creed. Here's a snippet about salvation:

"Jesus died on the cross and shed His blood for our sins. We believe that salvation is found by placing our faith in what Jesus did for us on the cross. We believe Jesus rose from the dead and is coming again."

...as for the Larry King interview, he probably should have just quoted his churches mission statement on the show and called it a day. But, he didn't, which is what troubles me, and troubled many folks in his congregation. I heard (no I didn't research this part) that he had to make a statement of apology to his church about his "dance" on the show.

In their mission statement...they never, not once, quoted scripture to back it up. That's strange to me too...but whatever. If you read the comments people have made about this blog entry, you'll see one from John Nelson that kind of puts the hammer down.

As for missions, they have a great mission to Kenya right now that looked pretty awesome. And they do medical missions every year and go to Mexico. Not too bad...but being the multi million dollar mega-church that they are...I, personally, would LOVE to encourage them to do more!!!!

So, in conclusion on Joel Osteen...who knows if he's really a Christian. Only God holds that secret. I'm not going to make that statement. I think my sister and I are going to "agree to disagree" on his biblical standards and choice of teachings. He also said on the interview with King that he doesn't quote scripture in most of his sermons and only uses scripture at the end of his book. That is scary to me. He could start saying ANYTHING and claim it as gospel. But then again...so could any old Televangelist or preacher on the street. I've watched a number of his sermons. From what I've seen...he doesn't teach on the wages of sin...that Christ is the one and only way to heaven...or how this life totally sucks sometimes. But, if he's leading people to Christ (by accident or intent) then he should probably keep doing what he's doing. I just pray that his congregation members don't lose faith if they have a time of drought and sacrifice.

...he is, however, a GREAT motivational speaker.

Of course, I'm going to esteem MY church now. The Grove. A biblically sound church of about 250 that flaunts sometimes in our sound system and cool graphics...but would rather see our front door revolving from our congregation going out to the mission field, than us to become stagnant and sucked into a comfortable "flame proof" Christianity and not telling others about Christ.

I'm happy to say that we currently have some of our church body members serving in:

China (where we'll be in a little over a year)
Mexico
Turkey
Thailand
South Korea

And, here is a small snippet of our (rather long) statement of faith. This is the portion on salvation:

We believe that Jesus Christ died for our sins as the only sufficient, substitutionary sacrifice. All who believe in Him are declared justified by the Father on the grounds of Jesus' death and resurrection. All who receive the Lord Jesus Christ by grace through faith have been regenerated by and baptized in the Holy Spirit. They become, thereby, the children of God forever and members of the one true church, the universal Body of Christ. This salvation will result in righteous living and good works as the believer submits his life to the control of the Holy Spirit who directs the life of the believer in harmony with the Word of God.

(John 1:12, 3:16, 5:24, 14:6; Acts 4:12; Romans 3:21-26, 5:8; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Galatians 3:26; Ephesians1:7, 2:8-10; Titus 3:4-7; Hebrews 10:10-12; 1 John 5:11-13)

Ok...that's all.

Emporium vs. Euphonium AND Celine Dion vs. Alison Krauss...

2008-05-07T22:21:00.003-05:00

Here is a quick snippet of a conversation I over heard a couple having the other night...

"What is that instrument called that looks like a mini-tuba?"
"Oh, you're talking about an Emporium"
"An Emporium? That doesn't sound right...are you sure?"
"Yes...its an Emporium, trust me."

NO DEAR SIR...an Emporium is a small boutique full of neat gadgets and gizmo's. The instrument in question would be a brass baritone or EUPHONIUM. I had to hold my laughter in.

Second conversation...same couple...about 3 minutes later.

"I really enjoy Celine Dion, but I think Alison Krauss is better at blue grass".

Now, I don't listen to much Alison Krauss...and I CERTAINLY don't listen to much Celine Dion. But, to my recollection...our french-canadian songstress Ms. Dion has NEVER even uttered the WORDS "Blue Grass"...let alone sing it.

Oh...I SO SO SO enjoy eaves dropping.

PS: On a side note. I really enjoy Alison Krauss. I need to own more of her music. We have the new album she just did with Robert Plant. MUY BIEN!

UPDATE...

2008-05-02T18:32:00.000-05:00

FEMA GAVE US $1000.00!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Things I've learned this week...and its only Wednesday.

2008-04-30T17:07:00.002-05:00

1. The maximum amount anyone can get from FEMA for flood or natural disaster damage is $28,300. No matter what your home is worth, its age, or its location. So…we’ll be lucky to get 25 cents.

2. If you are the first or only person on your mortgage and insurance, YOU have to be the one to file on the FEMA website. Your spouse can’t. (Something we would have liked to know BEFORE we filed.)

3. “H”, (the FEMA adjuster that paid us a visit today) is a special, special human being.

4. My husband has a hard time concentrating when dealing with said “special” people.

5. OCD comes in many forms.

6. When you file with FEMA, they don’t mention anything about needing a recent mortgage statement or proof of home owners insurance. (Something we would have liked to have known BEFORE "H" showed up today.)

7. A DNC procedure for a miscarriage (yes, even after insurance paid) is quite costly.

8. I want to be an anesthesiologist.

Bizzarro dreams last night...

2008-04-26T11:40:00.002-05:00

Last night, I had two weird dreams. I'm assuming that one was before the alarm clock...and the second was after.

Dream 1:

I was still living at home with my Mom and Step-Dad...but, my sister, her husband and her kids were also there. I don't know WHERE Justin was. I guess he hadn't made it in the family yet.

Anyway...Chris owned a GIGANTIC Anaconda...or Boa constrictor...or something like that. Well, said snake got out, and the entire family was on a trek to find it. When we did...it was there, with another snake and about 5 gazillion baby snakes. I wasn't scared though.

Weird.

Dream 2:

First and foremost, I was driving a white (circa 1994) Z28 Camaro. Hah...that's bizarre all in itself.

Then, I was in a gas station parking lot when Jason and Jaime Miller drive up beside me. Jaime leans all the way out the window and into my passenger seat to tell me "I'VE GOT TICKETS TO CATS...YOU SHOULD COME". So, I was like "sure".

Then, we all three (Jason, Jaime and I) stroll up to "Casa Bonita" (an old Mexican restaurant delight in Tulsa) for dinner. When we get there, I see Justin inside waiting for us at a table. But...he's not just there to meet us, he WORKS THERE!...AS A BUSS BOY...AT CASA BONITA!

We didn't end up going to Cats, or at least in my dream we didn't. I woke up.

...and now, I'm watching "Goonies" on TBS. I love "lazy days".

...Or not.

2008-04-16T17:58:00.000-05:00

Well, we were planning on going to Ukraine this summer, but the Lord brought Ukraine to us.

See...Justin and I have been praying for a long time on where we will go FIRST on the mission field. Ukraine...or China? Knowing, that wherever we go, we will be committing a long period of time in our lives.

We've prayed over Ukraine and China for a year now. Most know that we went to China last year and we were completely knocked on our butts. We ALWAYS thought we were headed to Ukraine. So...we've been in a state of throwing our heads down in prayer...listening to what the Lord had planned for us.

Two weekend ago, we found out that our friends Lloyd and Natasha (our friends that are missionaries in Ukraine and president of the mission organization we would go with. See their website on my sidebar) were in town. IN TOWN PEOPLE...MISSIONARIES DON'T JUST COME TO TOWN, unless there is a reason.

I prayed immediately "LORD, IF IT BE YOUR WILL THAT YOU DO NOT WANT US TO START IN UKRAINE, PLEASE MAKE IT OBVIOUS AND SHUT THAT DOOR."

Through Lloyds words of confirmation (which was a HUGE shocker to me), through a weekend of Justin and I being seperated from each other for prayer and fasting, and through a lunch meeting with two extremely awesome Godly men...Justin took a leap of faith and committed us as a family to China.

I received very simple instructions or "words from the Lord" during my time away from Justin to pray. It was: "The Lord of Lords, God of Gods is Holy and will make your path straight." And, it was overwhelmingly obvious that I was also called to submit to Justin and BE SILENT in this decision making.

So, here we are...April 2008 ready and willing to move to China. But when? We're not exactly sure. I know that I would like to have our first child stateside...and seeing as how I'm not even pregnant...that would give us AT LEAST nine more months here. Plus...you have to get the passport and visa stuff too. So, who knows.

BUT...

WE'RE MOVING TO CHINA.

10 reasons why "Grease 2" is better than "Grease"...

2008-04-05T11:52:00.004-05:00

1. the sex ed class and musical number "Reproduction"

2. Michelle Pfeiffer being a pink lady

3. the song "A Girl for all seasons"...which i ALWAYS wanted to do in a talent show with my friends.

4. Frenchie coming back to school as a beauty school drop out

5. the bowling alley scene and song "We're gonna Score tonight"

6. "I wanna C...O.O.L...R.I.D.E.R"

7. There is only a handful of people in this world that can even KNOW this movie exsists. And those same people are ALWAYS "artsy" type people and really really neat.

8. It's considered a "cult classic"

9. The T-birds are hilarious in the sequal...and the fact that they're always referred to as the T-Bones by the principle.

10. The hawaiian themed "lake of fire" festival for the end of the school year. Why?

Seriously??...seriously!

2008-03-19T09:40:00.001-05:00

Well, when it rains it…SLAMS WATER DOWN ON YOU REALLY REALLY HARD!!!!!

Or, at least it has for the Jones’. They say bad things “come in three’s”…well, this was number three. Miscarriage, my grandpa died, and now this…

Yesterday, a storm drain / creek thing near our house flooded and we were welcomed by about 3 inches of standing water when we walked in the front door. And…wouldn’t you know it? Unless your home is IN a flood zone, ground water in your home / flooding is not covered by your home owners insurance. We may be able to settle with the City of Fayetteville for their lack of properly maintaining the storm drain…but I doubt it. Especially since their response to us yesterday was “We didn’t cause the rain”.

Just a small list of things damaged…off the top of my head:

1. Our apple lap top that was propped up on its side, leaning on the couch. (we’re hoping we can salvage it)

2. Our digital camera (but Justin was able to bring that back to life yesterday)

3. Justins bible

4. The carpet and carpet pad

5. The area rug

6. our wedding album

7. all my childhood photo albums

8. Some of Justins school books next to the couch.

9. our 2007 tax forms (luckily we had just sent off our forms…but our copies are ruined)

10. Possibly our sheet rock. We’ll have that checked out in a couple of days for moisture in the walls. If there is any, we have to rip it out.

11. All of Justins AMAZING black and white photos from his art class in the past two years. They were in a paper storage box under our large chair.

PRAISE GOD that all of our furniture sits on small wooden legs about 4 inches high. The water was JUST ABOUT to get it…but it didn’t.

As of now, we have a concrete slab for a living room, all our furniture is up on blocks, our dining room table and chairs are in our living room, all of Justin’s school books (as well as other books and random envelopes) are spread through out the upstairs to dry out and we’re staying with friends.

I’m ready for this season of life to be OVER. I’m ready for glasses of sangria on the beach of Spain.

I guess the reason I’m really writing this is to say thank you for all your prayers through these last few weeks. BUT PLEASE KEEP ‘EM COMIN’.

"FREE T.BET"...into the hands of Christ.

2008-03-14T15:29:00.004-05:00

I’ve passed by the TV twice at work today and saw news stories about the riots in T.bet…I JUST NOW looked down at my Starbucks cup and it reads:

The Way I See It # 288

My cousin in T.bet is an illiterate subsistence farmer. By accident of birth, I was raised in the West and have a Ph.D. The task of our generation is to cut through the illusion that we inhabit separate worlds. Only then will we find the heart to rise to the daunting but urgent challenges of global disparity.

- Losang Rabgey, Ph. D.
National Geographic Emerging Explorer and co-founder of Machik, a nonprofit helping communities on the T.betan plateau.

This picture is from Fox News.

I’m answering the very OBVIOUS call to prayer today over my friends that are there and our Kham’s suffering out in the plateau from this brutal winter and now these riots.

Howdy Ya'll...

2008-03-13T13:39:00.001-05:00

Hey Everyone,
I FINALLY updated our other blog: www.jones2ethne.blogspot.com

You should check it out.

PS. Saw the movie "Vantage Point" last night. OH...MY...GOODNESS!!! Run, don't walk...RUN TO THE THEATER TO SEE IT. So good.

Okie doke...that's it.

Later tators!

...on a lighter note.

2008-03-07T16:27:00.003-06:00

I thought I would let you in on a little secret...Shelli + Drugs = FUNNY TROUBLE!

Here's a little sampling of the few conversations I remember as I was being sedated before my D & C procedure on Wednesday.

My husband Justin and My mom: "Bye sweety, we'll be right here when you come out. We love you."

Shelli: "BYE MOMMY...BYE DAD".

Then...

My Doctor to his nurses: "Sorry this has taken so long to get going. I had to do an emergency C-section"

Shelli: "NO, I'M HERE FOR A D&C, NOT A C-SECTION".

Nurse: "Ok, hun, just breath in this mask and think happy thoughts."

HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA!!!!!!!

Thank you for all of your prayers and kind words. We're doing great. I'm ready to get back to the real world.

Resting in the Lord after heartbreak...

2008-03-04T12:28:00.003-06:00

My life is an open book. Anyone who knows me...knows that fact. I've never known when to keep my mouth shut and just be still. I've never known when to quiet my restless soul and just listen.

Like I've said before...maybe I tell too much about my life on this blog...maybe I need to just STOP giving out so much information to the world. Maybe this is one of those times, or maybe this is not. I don't know. All I know is that I move on and get over things quicker if I verbalize what I'm going through. I think its just how I...Shelli Jones...heal.

Last night, after nearly 9 weeks of pregnancy, I had a miscarriage.

I have been overwhelmed (in a good way) by the emails of encouragement I've received by so many of my friends and family. Over and Over again, I think to myself "I just miscarried last night, should I be giving out so much information so soon? Shouldn't I just be quiet right now?" But, thats just NOT how I am.

I'm finding joy in the fact that God has this little one in his care now.

I'm finding joy in the fact that I had a small role to play in Gods over all purpose and plan.

I'm finding joy in the fact that Justin and I were successfully able to conceive.

I'm finding joy in the fact that I can now minister to other women that may have to go through this.

I'm finding joy in the fact that my husband is a strong rock to cling to and that he made me breakfast and coffee this morning.

I'm finding joy in Jeremiah 29:11...knowing that God has a plan and is in complete control.

I'm finding joy.

Blood pressure...BOO HISSY!

2008-02-07T15:57:00.000-06:00

Do you ever wonder if what you’ve blogged is just TOO personal? Yah, me too…OH WELL…

I’ve had blood pressure issues for about four years now. This “probably” came on due to my sudden weight gain (50lbs) after marriage. (YIKES…DID SHE SAY 50??) Yep…50.

And then came SUPER BOWL SUNDAY last weekend. Duhn Duhn DUHN!!!!!! Loads and loads of high sodium junk food. My blood pressure went through the roof and my doctor freaked!!!…oh, and so did I, thus raising it even higher.

Sundays numbers: 164/90
Mondays averages: 166/104
Tuesdays averages: 148/96
Wednesdays averages: 135/90
Todays averages: 130/85

If you know anything about blood pressure…you KNOW that those numbers are very very bad. The “average” is 120/80. So…yah…I was up there. But, look at today’s averages. They ARE going down. But, the reason they’re going down is that my doctor decided to triple my daily dosage until this thing settles. TRIPLE! Yikes. Well, and the fact that all of my family and friends have been praying for me. Hallelujah.

But…boo hissy…I have to be on drugs and say farewell to things like:

Chips. (Do you think the mexican restaurants would care if I brought in my own little bag of organic, low sodium pita chips to dip in my salsa???)

Fast food in general. (This is not really a bad thing. But, for “on the road” purposes, I guess I could order a couple of chicken soft taco’s at Bell or Bueno with only lettuce and sour cream??)

Pop (Yes, even diet. Honestly, I really didn’t drink much pop anyway. Just the occasional DP. Ok, ok, ok! Dr. Pepper, I’ll reserve a small glass of you for “special occasions”).

Milk Chocolate (…hey, to that I say “bring on the DARK!”).

Most cheeses. ( a tear just fell down my cheek.)

Some citric juices and fruits (grapefruit and oranges have a tendency to boost my numbers)

So, yah…there’s a VERY small list of some things I have to say bye bye to. I’m trying to stay positive in all this though. This could end up being the GREATEST wake up call I’ve ever received. I know that this will make me a healthier individual in the end, and probably drop some weight too. Plus, I want to be a healthy mommy…someday.

(PS…did you know that an egg soufflé at Panera bread has over 1000mg of sodium? Your daily suggested amount [as per the FDA] is 2200-3000mg. [The average American consumes over 4500 though] If you went by the suggested amount and ate one of those things…you’ve hit over one third of your daily allowance. What else are you going to eat for the day…broccoli? HELLO SODIUM!!!!!!!! )

30! blah...

2008-01-23T15:29:00.000-06:00

Do you remember that show “Thirty Something”? It was a show about the daily lives of a group of people, that I thought at the time, were SO old and boring.

Well I’ll turn 30 next week…(January 31st to be exact) but it doesn’t mean I have to LIKE IT!

I wish I was still about 25. That’s when EVERYTHING started to change.

Here’s a list of 25 things that have happened since I was 25…some good…some bad:

1. I lost my mother-in-law to cancer.
2. I got married: HOORAY!!!
3. We left Tulsa and moved to Fayetteville Arkansas.
4. Justin transferred to the U. of A.
5. I gained 50 pounds.
6. I lost 30: HOORAY!
7. I gained 10 back: BOO.
8. I can no longer “not” color my hair. The grays are very loud and proud.
9. I now sleep with a C-pap breathing machine for sleep apnea.
10. I now have high-blood pressure that I control with medication. (yuck)
11. We got a dog.
12. We gave a dog away.
13. We bought a house.
14. We wished we still rented…sometimes.
15. We’ve never organized our master bedroom since we’ve been married….NEVER.
16. I’ve worked at three different financial institutions.
17. Justin has worked at four different places.
18. Justin went to Turkey and Ukraine.
19. We both went to Tibet
20. Thirteen friends have moved away from Fayetteville to far off places.
21. Probably over 20 babies have been born at our church.
22. My best friend got married.
23. Way too many friends got divorced.
24. I bid my gall bladder and a smooth / wrinkle free face farewell.
25. We started leading a community group for our church.

Ok, there’s 25 things that have happened since I was 25. I’m sure I’m forgetting some doozies, but those are the ones that have come to my head.

So, I’ll be 30 next week. This is REALLY a new era for me and some close friends. I can already foresee lots of things happening:

Here’s what I can think of off the top of my head:

1. One of my best friends is expecting a baby.
2. Justin and I hope to start a family.
3. We hope to be overseas serving full time by 2009.
4. Two close friends are getting hitched!!! YAY!!!
5. Our church (God willing it all works out) will finally be moving into a permanent home in the next couple of months.
6. I still have all four of my grandparents, although, they are ALL ill and unfortunately, probably not going to be with us much longer. But, what 30 year old (baby of the family I might add) can say that they have ALL four of their grandparents?
7. I hope to quit working sometime this year or early next. Again…God willing with the whole “starting a family” thing.
8. …and so much more that I don’t even know about.

I’m excited about this new phase of my life, but also a little scared.

I don’t like turning 30…but, well…WHATEVER!

Relaxing choo choo...

2008-01-12T16:49:00.000-06:00

This was a pic from our little excursion train we took from Springdale to Vanburan one day this past summer. If you haven't done the train trip...its pretty fun...and very relaxing.

"UGLY SWEATER PARTY CAUSES THE POOPS FOR MANY INVOLVED"

2008-01-04T16:51:00.000-06:00

That would be the headlines if I was a write for a news paper.

Many of my friends get together every year for the annual New Years Eve "Ugly Sweater" party. This year, we all came home with extra prize...a bad case of the pukes and the squirts.

I think that Brian Baileys sweater alone is the reason we got sick...or perhaps Rhetts "serial killer" look...I'm not sure. Either way, I'm not pointing fingers.

Here's some pics from the night...YOU be the judge (and sorry...they're side ways, and even though I saved them on iphoto as right side up, they're on the blog as side ways):

A stressful situation indeed...

2007-12-29T13:17:00.000-06:00

I can't mention much about what happened today due to security and privacy stuff. And, please do not name specifics if you decide to comment.

But...knowing what I do for a living, and where I work..."one of our other locations" (no, not my office) was "hit" today, Saturday December 29th. I was the highest ranking individual on duty...so, all phone calls and emails were routed to me.

Talk about a test for my sanity and ability to remain calm. My heart started RACING so so so fast. It was weird. But, overall, I did ok...and the other office that was involved did AWESOME. No one was hurt, but still...I can't even imagine.

I definitely took a moment to thank our Lord and Savior for protecting all involved and giving me the patience and peace to deal with phone calls and what not.

Whew...I'm ready to relax now.

"...tidings of comfort and joy."

2007-12-18T13:44:00.000-06:00

I'm having a really hard time finding comfort and joy this holiday season. In fact, I'm right up there with Mr. Scrooge.

This time of year has been getting harder and harder for me to handle. And, I'm DEFINITELY becoming more annoyed by it…that’s FO SHO!

Maybe its the FACT that most people around the world don't open their eyes and realize the hardships of the world until December...

Maybe its because the majority of the world chooses to become money hungry vultures at the malls during this time of year. People will knock others out just to buy a specific item for a child…but choose to pass by the bell ringer at the store entrance.

Maybe its because we have Christian brothers and sisters around the world that are persecuted if they so much as hum or whistle a Christmas carol, while we sit back with our holiday ham or turkey and just grin from ear to ear, not realizing the blessings of this liberty we have as fat Americans. (…and I am one, so please no comments about size.)

Maybe its because the word "Christmas" is starting to vanish all together...

Maybe its because I'm not doing enough for the purpose of Christ and spreading his fame amongst the nations.

I'm just...joyless and having a hard time feeling happy when I know SO many others are hurting.

Merry Christmas (feed the hungry)
Merry Christmas (give to the poor)
Merry Christmas (pray and stand up for the persecuted)
Merry Christmas (celebrate CHRIST every day of the year)

From the Gospel of John we see in the book, where Peter denied Christ three times and he was ashamed and saddened by it. On one of the occurances when Christ appeared to his remaining disciples after his resurrection, Christ (starting in chapter 21 verse 15) asked Peter three different times if he loved him, and Peters response was always yes. How awesome was it that Christ in his redemptive love, gave Peter an opportunity, not once…but THREE times to SAY and claim his love for him. After each time that Christ asked Peter if he loved him, and Peter replied yes, Christ had simple commands of him:

Feed my lambs
Take care of my sheep
Feed my sheep

Peter was THE ROCK of our founding fathers of the faith. He lived with a passionate, wild abandoned love and calling to follow Christ. His simplistic words were more effective in his letters than CS Lewis’ deep and intellectual modern day writings.

I think this relationship and command between Christ and Peter displays great imagery of what our faith is supposed to look like. Simple, basic, non-glamorous, un-ashamed, love for others and love to tell others about Christ.

What is the MOST important thing to YOU this Christmas?

I think I’m starting to find my joy again…

No tree this year...I'm keepin' it simple.

2007-12-03T20:59:00.000-06:00

So, this year we decided to forego the Christmas tree. One main reason is because Justin and I are not doing "presents" for each other this year...we're going snow skiing with the fam instead. WOO HOO!! I just thought it would be depressing to have a Christmas tree with no presents underneath it.

Well...except for James, Nathan, Carter, Cole, Cash, Mallori, Dad, Judy, Mom, Chris, and the two parties that require "$5-$10 white elephant gifts" and the one party that requires a "$5-$10 non gender specific gift".

...so, besides THOSE presents, we don't have any.

...I should have put up the tree.

C.H.A.O.S. ...and my worst nightmare come true.

2007-11-28T17:37:00.000-06:00

Ok, I've complained on this blog, I don't know HOW many times, about my lack of good housekeeping skills. I realized a couple of months ago, that I have a bad case of ,what The Fly Lady calls, "C.H.A.O.S." or "Can't Have Anyone Over Syndrome". My laziness and non-ability to prioritize my time and life, has made my home one of clutter, trash, and non-washed dishes. Yuck. And my poor husband. He works his booty off at work and is a full time student. Like he wants to come home from 10-11 hour days to clean. And, after a long day at the office, I really don't want to either. Boo Hissy!

Well, today, my WORST nightmare became a reality. duhn Duhn DUHN!!!!!

UNEXPECTED HOUSE GUESTS. (imagine "psycho" theme music here)

AAAAAGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

One of my bestest friends in the world Brian Bailey and his wife Ashley are relocating here to Northwest Arkansas. I'm so stinkin' excited. Well, Ashley (with her moms assistance) moved up today (Brians coming in about 2 weeks) and was all set to spend her first night in their new home...when, she realized that Brian forgot to get the electricity, gas and water all set up. So...she's without water or heat.

(Shelli goes into PANIC mode realizing that her dear friend and her mother are, inevitably going to be staying at HER HOUSE!!)

I went in to my bosses office, in what shall go down in history as one of my greatest "drama queen" moments, SCREAMING "YOU'VE GOT TO LET ME GO HOME AND CLEAN MY HOUSE...YOU'VE JUST GOT TO. I HAVE COMPANY COMING AND MY HOUSE IS A PIT...YOU DON'T SEEM TO UNDERSTAND THE SEVERITY OF THIS DAVID....PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE". And what did that little turd do? Sat there, hassled me, picked on me and made me SWEAT AND FREAK OUT before he said "I don't care, silly...go home."

Well, with the assistance of the beautiful Meredith, we had this place lookin' like new in an hour. (Plus, my sweet wonderful hubby, cleaned the upstairs spare bedroom. I love him...I think I'll keep him.)

SO...THAT'S MY DAY SO FAR...HOW'S YOURS?

"Gobbledy Dee, Gobbledy Dye...Sammie Davis Jr. only had one eye"

2007-11-23T11:49:00.000-06:00

Turkey day has come and gone...and now I'm working...on a Friday watching others put up the bank Christmas tree as I blog. Yep, I'm bored.

So...I guess I'll make a list of everything I'm thankful for, a few complaints...BUT MAINLY thankfulness:

1. God, and everything that "Sunday School Answer" encompasses.

2. My oh so hot husband Justin "Rockstar" Jones.

3. My immediate family whom I love so much and appreciate. Even though my sister SLAPPED me in the face ON PURPOSE yesterday. (Truth be known: we were be being stupid and playing around and she threatened to slap me if I called her "stupid" one more time...which I did...SO SHE DID slap me, although she meant it to be kind of light and playful, but it ended being really hard and hurting. But, don't worry, I punched her back...in the leg.)

4. My extended family (I originally had a complaint here, but decided to remove it since this is about THANKSgiving, rather than COMPLAINTgiving.)

5. My co-workers. (not so much my JOB)...but, my co-workers. My boss is hilarious, my loan assistants put up with me and the crew at this branch are all light hearted and like to have fun.

6. Making a good wage to live and be blessed with frivolous things.

7. Gobbledy Dee, Gobbledy Dye...I'm so thankful that I have both eyes.

8. My friends that make me smile ALL THE TIME!!!!!

9. My car.

10. ...and everything else that I'm blessed with on a daily basis.

"Praise God from whom all blessing flow. Praise him all creatures here below. Praise him above ye heavenly hosts. Praise Father Son and Holy Ghost. AMEN"

Oh...FALL and WINTER...how I do love thee...

2007-11-09T18:13:00.000-06:00

I love the Fall and Winter. It is DEFINITELY upon us here in Northwest Arkansas.
The trees are a vibrant red and orange, and the air is crisp. Oooooohh...I LOVE IT!

I especially love the smells, tastes and sounds of these seasons. Sounds? Oh, you know...the rustling of leaves, the random Christmas music you hear in that one store that starts playing it earlier than everyone else, and the oven buzzer going off to tell you that you're Turkey is ready for basting. I just love it all.

So, what is YOUR favorite part of Fall and Winter?

And, I don't know why...but I really like this picture of me. It was taken last year up on the balcony of that cheesy saloon show at Silver Dollar City during their Christmas season. Gotta love "snow balls"...which is a hot cocoa with a scoop of ice cream in it that they serve at the Saloon, but only during this time of year.

Creepy Santa???

2007-11-02T15:13:00.001-05:00

This is what life is like for a person that works with Stu.

Let there be Hyperlinks!!!!!

2007-10-23T17:55:00.001-05:00

It wasn't the mac at all...it was 'Safari' browser. Thank you "firefox" and my husband.

Ya like that "hyperlink"....YA DONE A GOOD JOOOOORRRRB THERE SHELLI!

To "Mac" or not to "Mac"...that is the question.

2007-10-21T12:33:00.000-05:00

So, my husband is a self proclaimed "Mac snob". I'm a PC girl...I've worked on a PC my whole "computer life". I realize that PC's are FAR inferior to Macs on many many many levels.

...but seriously...how come I can't do simple things like:

Where is the freakin' RIGHT CLICK?

If I want to edit a hyper link...or create a hyper link... how the H.E.DOUBLE HOCKEY STICKS do I do that on a Mac? On a PC, I simply "right click" and VOILA...it's right there.

Plus...when I blog from my PC at work, my "post toolbar" has an icon for line spacing, hyper links, font styles, font size...and more. But, when I blog from home on our "SUPER FANTASTIC MAC" that tool bar is limited to spell check and the link to add a picture. WHERE ARE THEY? If I'm posting about my friend Sarah, I want to be able to make her name a hyper link to her blog...BUT...I...CAN'T...ON THIS STUPID MAC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I haven't even ventured into the world of using Word or Excel on this thing yet. Good grief...what is THAT going to be like.

Grrrrrrrrrr........

Don't listen to Meredith...

2007-10-18T21:41:00.001-05:00

...that's right, don't listen to Meredith..."3:10 TO YUMA" is GREAT! It ROCKED MY FACE OFF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!...and Justin's too.

Little GRASSHAWPAH!!!!!!

2007-10-10T12:25:00.001-05:00

I have a grasshopper that comes to visit me almost every single morning at work. He clings to my window for hours and just…looks at me. I don’t know if he is the same one everyday, but I would like to think so. It’s been going on for about 2 weeks now.

And I SWEAR he just waved at me.

I fantasize that he is having an imaginary conversation in his head about / with me. “Hi Lady, its me again. I hope you’re having a wonderful day. I’m just gonna hang out here for awhile if that’s ok”. And, I would say back to him “Hey Kung Fu (that’s what I’ve named him), good to see you again. Be careful…don’t fall”.

I wonder if insects and other small things have a mind that thinks and logically reasons out things like we humans do? I’m sure the answer can be found in some biology book, but, seeing as how I’m NOT a fan of math or science…I don’t plan on reading to find it out. I bet a certain little girl, (who shall remain nameless, but is the oldest daughter of our music minister. hint hint), would know…she’s a whiz when it comes to bugs. Maybe I’ll ask her. “Excuse me ‘6 year old child’, do you know if the Grasshopper brain functions and thinks logically to reason things out like we humans do?”

I suppose that if they DID…we would be sharing offices with them, and have a mouth piece that would translate our audible words into a noise that is comprehensible to them.

Hmmmm…it’s a random day…a random day indeed.

Well, its 12:30 and he’s been here since 8am and has just hopped away. I guess he’s done with me for the day.

ITS A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE!!!!

2007-10-07T13:42:00.000-05:00

Kitchen...clean.
Living room...clean.
spare bedroom...clean.

time now 1:45 on Sunday.

bathroom...will be cleaned tonight after church, or tomorrow.

master bedroom...NO WHERE NEAR BEING CLEAN AND ORGANIZED. However, I would really love to have it all pretty and organized before my company comes on Thursday...but, I just don't see that happening. Monday (tomorrow) night is the ONLY night that I have free to dedicate to it. Tuesday night I'm helping a "handy man" project at a womans house. Wednesday night I have community group. And Thursday is when they'll be here. I just don't know when I'll have time. But, I would like to have the freedom of leaving my bedroom door open while they're here. You know what I mean? Geez....will it EVER be organized...who knows. YUCK!

Project Clean Sweep...and C.H.A.O.S.

2007-10-06T11:43:00.000-05:00

There is ONE thing in this world that motivates me to clean my house...COMPANY! According to www.flylady.net , we have a bad case of living in C.H.A.O.S. ...or, "Can't Have Anyone Over Syndrome". Boy is THAT the truth!

Next weekend, we have some friends coming in from Mississippi. They'll be staying in our spare bedroom. The spare bedroom that is our "storage closet". And OH MY...it is a wreck. Not to mention that my house right now is a disaster zone. And, I don't mean to make excuses...but, Justin and I both have been really busy...and OBVIOUSLY a 5.0 Tornado ripped through here....obviously.

LIE!...WE'RE JUST SLOPPY. Dang Dang Dang!

What I'm looking at right now in my living room:

1. an un-rolled sleeping bag

2. a pile of laundry

3. opened mail that is scattered throughout the living room.

4. a coffee mug with a stain from the coffee in the bottom.

5. a random pile of stuff that was in the back seat of my car (2 serving platters, a beach towl, a skirt, a pair of shoes, a folder full of praise and worship music, and a nalgene bottle)

6. My husbands djimbe that is being used as a shelf for my bible and a red baseball cap.

7. a stock pot.

8. All of Justins school books and photography stuff.

9. My make up bag.

10. And the obvious stuff: dust, furniture, decor...

Needless to say...you "get the idea"...and that is JUST the living room. I don't even want to start on the kitchen and my bedroom (which by the way has NEVER been organized since we moved in here over 2 years ago).

So...my Saturday (today) and Sunday (tomorrow) is going to be spent cleaning. YIPPEE!...not.

And if you get a chance, go check out my friend Merediths blog...we had a pretty fun night last night, and she posted our pictures...HA HA: http://sillysongsbytheseashore.blogspot.com/ And, why is it that on my husbands apple lap top I have the hardest time making a hyperlink?...Huh? MAC snobs...huh?

WE WON...WE WON!!!!!!!

2007-10-02T17:02:00.000-05:00

I can’t believe it…but, my branch of the bank won the “Wackiest Office of the Week” award with the local TV Station KNWA.

They are running this promo w/ Jims Razorback Pizza…and if your office wins…you get a pizza party, and you get to be on the news.

Well, our branch is CRAZY when it comes to office pranks, so I nominated us. AND WE WON!!!!!!!!! I’ll be on KNWA channel 9 THIS Thursday…aaaaaaagggggggghhhhhhhh.

This is basically what I wrote in my email to them:

Here’s just a sampling of what we’ve done to each other around here:

Stink bait on the mouth piece of the phone?...check.

Dead lizard on a co-workers keyboard?...check.

Toothpaste under the car door handle of the bank President?...check.

Covering every square inch of a V.P.’s office with post-it notes?...check.

Taking every plant, tree or flower display from the branch and filling the bank Presidents office?...check. (which; if you’ve seen my branch, you know how BIG it is…there are A TON of plants here!)

Daring a co-worker to answer the phone with an accent and demand that they keep it up during the whole phone conversation?...check.

Stuffing “packing peanuts” into every nook and cranny of a co-workers desk?...check (and actually, this is still on-going. I’ve got it comin’ real soon…yikers!)

And, of course, the every day stuff…like prank calls…randomly covering someone in “silly string” for no reason…and a few more things that would probably make the FED come and shut down our bank…but are REALLY funny.

So, look for me on the KNWA nightly news on Thursday.

Someday far away...

2007-09-30T13:09:00.000-05:00

Someday I'll live far away from here.

Someday, this joy in my heart will explode and I'll realize that it wasn't joy at all...it was the expectation of the truth for all to know and the gratitude of my knowledge that it really does exist.

Someday, God willing, I'll hold in my arms a new creation to praise his glory and teach to love others rather than themselves.

Someday, I'll walk in a land I've never seen and see strange faces stare back at me with an emptiness and longing to know my secret.

Someday I'll be happy with my body and stop listening and believing the lies of the evil one.

Someday I'll look back and realize the filth that I was protected from as a child and the Grace that was placed on me. But, why do I want to keep it all to my self? Rather than wring it out and let it flow onto others?

Someday, the Lion of Judah WILL stand on top of a mountain, his shadow WILL devour all that stands against him....and all that bow to other gods will crumble. Christ will reign in the valleys.

Someday I'll shut up and just...

STARBUCKS "PUMPKIN...SPICE...LATTE"!

2007-09-21T10:49:00.000-05:00

THEY'RE BACK!!!!!!!

why Why WHY CAN'T THEY BE AROUND ALL YEAR LONG????

No Air conditioning = GRUMPY MAGOO!!!

2007-09-18T10:32:00.001-05:00

So...we are STILL not running the air conditioning. SUCK!

Have you ever worked out (like extreme cardio fat burning worked out) in a house with no air conditioning, while cooking a meat loaf? Well...let me just tell you...it makes your house a FREAKIN' HELL HOLE WITH HEAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It was (as Mr. Jones' refers to it) "BALLS HOT" in our house. I had Had HAD to turn the air on for a little bit. I was already sweating from working out...and with the oven on, it made for one giant sauna.

...and then...OH YES...and then...the drooling drip of dread! (that was an "Onomatopoeia" AND "Alliteration"...thank you James Miller aka: KNOW IT ALL!)

I sat quietly in silence on my couch after I finished my work out and what do I hear? The air conditioner turn off...THEN...(slowly)Drip...Drip...(faster)drip drip drip...POUR POUR POUR...SPLASH SPLASH SPLASH!!!!!!

NOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!

"STUPID AIR CONDITIONER!"

Boo Hissy!!!!!!!!

Today...the repair man cometh!

Stood up!, MOLD!, Dang Truck! and Woops...not my car!

2007-09-16T13:46:00.000-05:00

The title to today's blog may seem a bit odd...but, read on and all will be made clear:

This is my day (so far)...hour by hour:

8:30: Wake up to have breakfast w/ The Hirschy's, Lafe and Jenn, Stu and the Jones' (us).

9:00: Breakfast consists of the Jones' and Stu. The other "playa's" stood us up.

10:30: Arrive home, via Stu, since Justin left for Tulsa in my Honda at the completion of said breakfast. (We were at the Cracker Barrell if you were wondering)

12:00: I decide to vacuum the floors and realize that I need to change the vacuum bag. Where oh where are those vacuum bags? Ah yes...in the bottom of my very stuffed storage closet.

12:05: Starting to realize that, no...I didn't pee pee on the floor...the carpet is SOAKED because my Carrier Air conditioning unit has LEAKED all over the floor of my storage closet. HUSBAND IS IN TULSA...WHAT SHOULD I DO?

12:10: Start unloading the entire closet from top to bottom...so far so good.

12:12: HOLY CRAP...the Christmas tree box is completely soaked...HOLY MOTHER...the carpet is black and green with MOLD!!!!!!! HOLY MOLY "WHOOPS I CRAPPED MY PANTS ADULT DIAPERS" CRUD-A-RONI SANDWICH, MOLD IS EVEN COVERING THE CARPET PAD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

12:15: GO INTO "I JUST REALIZED I'M A KATRINA VICTIM AND NEED TO CLEAN THE ENTIRE CLOSET WITH BLEACH" MODE!!!!

12:20: THE CARPET HAS TO GO IN THE DUMP...THE CARPET PAD HAS TO COME UP AND GO IN THE DUMP...THE CHRISTMAS TREE HAS TO (WAIT!, I really want to save that...time to inspect the damage.)...OK, THE CHRISTMAS TREE BOX AND LITTLE CARDBOARD BOX OF ORNAMENTS INSIDE MUST GO...but the Christmas tree is plastic, and has no visible mold...HOORAY! The Christmas tree can stay!

12:30: BLEACH-FEST 2007. I completely cleaned out the closet, pulled up all the carpet and carpet pad, threw out all the moldy/ruined items (which luckily only consisted of the carpet, pad, tree box, moldy paper vacuum bags, little shoe box and a few ornaments...it REALLY could have been worse) and loaded up a spray bottle with bleach and CLEANED THAT SUCKER FROM TOP TO BOTTOM. LITERALLY! I sprayed the walls from top to bottom...I coverd the concrete floors with bleach, I went along the seems of the walls and floors extensively with bleach. I sprayed the air conditioning unit down wiht bleach. I went crazy! Have you ever seen how mold reacts to bleach? It's quite amazing really...it, kind of, shrivels up and dies. It made me feel really good.

(For my friends reading this blog that are highly alergic to mold...uh, hum: Karen....please be reassured; I CLEANED THAT CLOSET LIKE NOBODY'S BUSINESS!!!!! THAT MOLD IS GONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

1:00: allow the "bleach" to dry for about 15 minutes.

1:15: load the closet back up in a more organized (if I do say so myself) manner. TURN OFF THE AIR CONDITIONER COMPLETELY (Thank God its cool today) so that it doesn't leak anymore.

1:25: Head out the door to run to Harps and buy NEW vacuum bags. (remember...that's how the whole things started...and mine were moldy.)

1:28: CUSS AT THE TOP OF MY LUNGS BECAUSE JUSTIN'S TRUCK WONT START!!!!

1:30: Get friendly neighbors involved to "jump" the truck and in the mean time, am offered THEIR car to run to Harps. (Thanks Jessica...you rock)

1:35: Arrive at Harps (its less than a mile from my house), get new bags...leave and "go to the car"...but, I was on mental vacation and tried to get in a car that I THOUGHT was Jessica's. HA HA HA HA...I felt like a dunce! WRONG CAR SHELLI!!! Ha ha ha ha.

1:50: Arrive back home, truck is running...HOORAY!...vacuum the house and dust.

Peace again!

2:00: MUST BLOG ABOUT THIS DAY SO FAR...AND IT'S ONLY 2:00 IN THE AFTERNOON!

Mr. Slim Goodbody...

2007-09-09T10:28:00.000-05:00

Does anyone else remember "Mr. Slim Goodbody" who would usually be on a local PBS channel to talk about health and eating right. Usually he came on in between "Sesame Street" and "The Electric Company"...probably right after Bill Cosby's "Picture Page". (I even remember the song: "Picture page, picture page, its time to play with picture page...its time to get your papers and your pencils!")

Anyway, last night I talked with my good friend Michelle about health / weightloss / and the fact that I'm so FREAKIN' pissed off that I've plateau'd and haven't lost any more weight since before Tibet. And after all that...I thought about good 'ol Mr. Slim Goodbody.

Well...he's still around and touring to schools around the nation to talk about health.

So...Here he is on his glory: MR. SLIM GOODBODY

Scary dreams and bad "perhapses"...

2007-09-04T21:22:00.000-05:00

First: Scary Dreams...

I've been plagued by very demonic creepy dreams lately. Some centered around Tibet...others, just bizarre and sadistic. I woke up last night shaking with fear and crying. I leaned over to Justin and asked him to pray for me. We prayed for the Holy Spirit to come upon us and fill the room. Our God is good and he comforted me to fall back to sleep. I guess I'm gonna have to gear up for battle every night now (Ephesians chapter 6) until satan gets the hint that he's NOT going to get me down...and not going to win.

Second: Bad perhapses...

Things have been getting "weird" at work. I don't want to give out too much info, since this is of course, the world wide web...but, lets just say that I fear losing my job anyday now. Arkansas is an "At Will" employement state. Basically...they can fire you without any just cause at any time. I have not had a peace about job security in quite some time...and with todays unfoldings, the possibility of being "let go" is kind of looking me in the face. Have I done something wrong? Absolutely not. I've had two "excellent" evaluations. But...a couple of months ago, I feel I was mistreated in a certain circumstance...a "scape goat" if you will...and ever since, I've just been biding my time. Well...who knows what tomorrow will bring, but hopefully for me...it will be a continuation of my job.

UPDATE: As of Wednesday, September 5th at 9:20pm, I still have a job. So, I haven't been fired...although another dear friend of mine lost HIS job this week. That makes 2 in one week...incase you were wondering.

The Lord is The Lord of EVERY circumstance. I must Must MUST remember that in order to live this life "worry free" and at peace. No matter what the day brings, I'm in the arms of my savior, and he has a plan.

Yes Mr. Barber...I'll come to your party!

2007-09-01T09:19:00.000-05:00

Ok, this is my first "Lafe Index" of sorts:

Number of alcoholic drinks I had last night: 2

Number of cups of coffee I had last night: 2 (not because I was drunk. COME ON! I just love coffee...seriously...I just do.)

Number of parties I attended last night: 2

Number of guests at said parties: 15 or so at one, 70-80 or so at the other.

Number of parties that I attended last night, yet was not invited to: 1

Number of times I turned and ran for the door in order to escape before entering said large party: about 10

Number of times I heard the words "Shelli...seriously...they're not going to throw us out because they'll be wondering the whole time who WE are and not want to look lame for not knowing": about 4 or 5

Number of times I had a nausious feeling come over me because I thought I was going to go to jail for "crashing" a multi-millionaires party: too many to count.

Number of people with me for this little "escapade": 2...my "little brudder" Stu and my husband Justin.

Number of people that are now on my poo poo list: 2

To all the friends I've loved before...

2007-08-24T10:31:00.000-05:00

Life throws a curve ball now and then...it's true. We flow through life...sometimes going crazy fast pushing really hard, struggling to get upstream, then other times...we just float back down stream and are thankful for the easy path.

WEll, 13...YES 13 friends of mine hitched a ride down a completely different stream this summer.

At first, when they all moved, I was like "Eh...we'll be fine...we'll keep in touch." But then, last night at a girls night out, I realized that we are indeed at a loss here without them. It was pretty sad to sit at the table and not have Erin and Kristen there. True...I was a random friend that just popped into their circle last year really...but, still...I missed them last night.

Erin moved to Colorado to pursue her masters in architectural design (or something like that)at the University of Colorado, Denver. Well...not only is the city of Denver getting a talented artist...but they're getting an amazing woman of God. Gennie and Erin are two of the most "spriritually mature" women I know. Christ has set up permanent living quarters in their souls and he just beems through them. Erin is a ray of light to me...she encourages me...and I'm so glad to call her a dear friend. I better see you in January on the ski slopes girl.

Kristen and her husband Stephen moved to Colorado as well. He is studying Law at the University of Colorado in Boulder. SO JEALOUS BY THE WAY! I heart Boulder. Kristen and Stephen are a really cool couple. They're so laid back on life...until you start talking about the women trapped in the sex trade in India. Then, all of the sudden, you see Kristin take on the manifestation of a rabid beast ready to tackle anyone with the will to hurt those women. And, from what I've heard...I think Stephen did just that once. YIKES! Anyway...you two are SO stinkin' cool...and your heart to minister is very encouraging and a breath of fresh air. See you in January...I prefer Egyptian cotton, 400 thread count sheets. Thanks.

Well, Erin, Kristen and Stephen are only 3 of the 13.

The Harper family is gone too. They make up 6 of the 13. Mike, Stacy, their 3 amazing kids...and Indianna...the greatest dog in the world. (See previous post). Their family was really a pillar in our church. They had so many strong relationships...and I really looked up to Stacy. I still do, and probably always will. She's as crazy as me...and she, along with Mike, raise their kids EXACTLY how Justin and I want to. I MISS YOU STACY!!!!

That brings us to 9 (yes, one is a dog) so far...the other 4 are just as amazing.

Sweet sweet Whitney. Oh, I'll miss her sweet little hugs. And by little...I just mean that she is a small individual, and next to my voluptuousness...she kind of got swollowed up. This woman of God has taken a calling on her life to serve overseas. She is an inspiration! I love you Whit Whit!

Now that makes 10...3 more to cover.

Esther aka Stresther. That girl is one of the bravest souls I know. She just accepted a job and moved to New York City. ("NEW YORK CITY??? Get a rope!" Please tell me someone else remembers that Pace Picante Sauce commercial.) Anyway, unlike the pace picante sauce...Esther will TOTALLY fit NYC. She is the picture perfect city girl. She knows how to downsize and live in small spaces...she can do without a car...and she's cool as heck. Stay cool stir.

Ok, we're down to 2...

James and Adam. Those two rockin' boys, just HAD to move to Austin to pursue their music dreams. That is amazing...how often does someone move to a city to pursue their dreams??? I mean really?

I MISS MY FRIENDS...BOO!!!!!!!!!!!

NOW LISTEN...This does not mean that my wonderful friends that remain here are "chopped liver" or, as Gennie put it Friday night, "What are WE? Balogna Sausage?"...ha ha ha...anyway, my friends that are still here are, of course, wonderful and very much a pillar part of my life. I'm just saying that I miss my other friends. So don't worry...I love all of you too.

Farewell Indi girl...

2007-08-18T14:22:00.000-05:00

Today, we sent our sweet little girl off with our dear friends, the Harpers. They and their 3 kids moved to Kansas.

We've been contemplating this for awhile now, and this opportunity to give her to the Harpers came up. Our townhouse is just shy of 900 square feet, with a small fenced in back porch. During the day, that is where Indi would stay. We always felt sad that we didn't have a yard for her play around in during the day...well, now she does. And, she has 3 very happy children to play with her all the time. We're also very very busy people on the go. We're always going somewhere, doing something...and never had the time to really devote to her. She deserved a home with people that could spoil her rotten with love...and unfortunately that was not us...not now anyway.

Sometimes I wonder: "If I couldn't give time to a dog, how can I give the time and devotion needed to a child?"...but then, everyone always reminds me "a person is different than a dog Shelli...duh! You can't just leave them on the back porch...they become a part of your every thought and move." And then I feel better. Plus, I hope to be a stay at home mom...so that will help too.

So, our sweet Indianna Belles Jones is now a Kansas girl. Farewell Indi girl...you'll be missed.

And yes, there were lots of tears from me. Justin's been able to "hold it together"...but not me.

"Tag 2008"...

2007-08-13T15:53:00.000-05:00

The Rules:

1. I have to post these rules before I give you the facts.
2. Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.
3. People who are tagged need to write their own blog about their eight things and post these rules. (**if you’re a non-blogger, you can email them!)
4. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.
5. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.

Random Fact #1: I know how to gut and clean most animals and have been through the Oklahoma Hunters Safety course.

Random Fact #2: I once sang back up for the 90’s pop boy band “Color Me Badd” for their Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame induction.

Random Fact #3: I’m the youngest of 5. (biologically, only 2…but I have 3 step siblings.)

Random Fact #4: We once had a large rat living in our laundry room that stole some of our Christmas decorations and decorated his little home in the wall. And, the day after Christmas…he pushed them back out. THIS IS NOT A LIE!!!!!!! You can call my mother at work to verify.

Random Fact #5: I’ve always wanted to go skydiving.

Random Fact #6: I have a degree in vocal music performance, yet I’m a banker.

Random Fact #7: One of my favorite snacks in the world is red seedless grapes with a small piece of Colby / Jack cheese. YUM!

Random Fact #8: I’ve known my husband for 16 years, we went to prom together, yet did not actually “date” until I graduated from college.

Since Jaime tagged Karen and Sarah…I wont choose them…I choose: Meredith, Erin, Gennie, Kristen C., Lafe (just because I know that if he DOES do this, he’ll make fun of it and furthermore, make his answers highly unbelievable), Stu, Hubby, and Virginia.

"Third Owners's the charm"???

2007-08-12T09:49:00.000-05:00

Well, Justin and I are now the 3rd (and very greatful and proud) owners of an apple laptop. Its pretty and silver and the keys light up and its a mac and we now have the internet and too bad I don't know squat about macs or it would be even cooler to me. Never the less...its ours...we have a new (to us) computer.

So...Thanks Dave who bought it from Jason who bought it from apple. With that said...i guess we're technically the 4th owner. But...whatever.

I've named it Zeke the Sleek laptop. Don't know if it will stick yet...but, I'm going to try.

"You've got a friend...doo doo do doot DO..."

2007-08-08T09:43:00.001-05:00

I have been blessed with some great friends. From college pups to mature adults willing to be a mentor of sorts. All of my friends are great…

However, Justin and I are particularly blessed by two specific couples that we often get together with for a fun night of laughter and games. It used to be just two couples, then it was bumped up to two couples and Sarah…but, now its been bumped up to three couples since Dave and Sarah starting dated and now engaged. One time, we three couples of orient are…erg…I mean North West AR even bumped it up another notch by adding in the Millers for a fun night of Wii and DDR. But, usually its just us three couples. Three couples without children and in a major time of change in our lives. (By the way…I think we ALL agree that we would like to “Red rover Red rover, send the Millers back over” more often)

Anyway…we’re all at a major crossroad in life…and it’s been great, so far, to go through it with such great people.

Jones: Trying to graduate and figure out where we are going to go full time on the mission field.

Akins: New home, life changes in the works, loss of dear friends.

Hamrick / Hodges…soon to be Hamrick’s: Engaged and ready to begin their life together.

Here’s to you, Bill and Karen Akins, for providing pizza, a fun house, a fun dog and fun times on your Wii last night. (And, who knew that the Wii would even work as a slide show for your digital camera memory card? We HAVE to get one of those things.)

Here’s to you, Dave and Sarah (Hodges) Hamrick, for being such awesome people who like to share your stories of engagement and muddy shoes turned romantic story escapades.

Here’s to you Akins and Hamrick/Hodges…you are some of my favorite people in the world and I’m blessed to call you my friends! Here’s to two of my most favorite couples for being so fun and always up for a good night of crazy talk, games and occasional whimsy of girls chattering about girly stuff. If I had a glass I’d raise it to you right now at work…but, alas, you’ll have to settle for a stirofoam cup of really bad coffee.

…and I’ve supposedly spelled stirofoam incorrectly, but I’m not getting any suggestions on the correct spelling. So, you’ll have to settle for that too.

Out trip in a (rather big) Nutshell...

2007-08-02T09:22:00.000-05:00

Hello Friends and Family!
Many people have asked to hear all about our mission trip to Tibet…so, to kill many birds with one stone…here it is in blog form. Pictures to come later! (And, I plagiarized some of this from one of my team mates email she sent out…hope that’s ok Whit!) And remembere...this is the World Wide Web...so, I'm using a lot of "safe" spellings. Here you go:

Arrived in "Bayshing" and was immediately whisked away to the “Bao Ding” hotel. A “4 star” Ch*neez hotel…which is about a “2 star” in America. But, it was a nice place to call home for about 48 hours. During those 48 hours we ran, walked, hustled and bustled through the “touristy” things in Be*jing. Gr8_t Wall, Tien_anmen Square, The F0rbidden C*ty, and the Summ*r Pal*ce. It was all really amazing, but tuff to do in the little amount of time we had.

We then caught a flight to X_ning. After some altitude acclimation in (around 8,000 feet or so), we visited the rug factory and English school. It is really an amazing system they have set up over there. The workers of the factory get a pay check, a place to live, medical help and a school to learn English. It is REALLY a great benefit…even in the states. The "C" government knows who we are, knows we are believers and knows every detail of the work we are doing…and welcome us. But, unfortunately, we can not just go out and “witness” or “preach”. We have lead by example and pray that the people start asking questions…THEN, we have the freedom to talk to them. And, it IS happening. The workers are becoming loving friends to us and they are always asking questions.

After a few days, we left on the sleeper bus for Y.shu prefecture (13,000ft). A group of 13 of us hitched a ride on the infamous sleeper bus. It didn’t take too long to get used to the smells of yak butter, feet, and cigarettes as we rode 19 hours on mostly unpaved mountain roads. We had to stop once because of a landslide and another time because our bus broke down, (and of course…Justin and I barfing out the window) but altogether we were only delayed a few hours and we arrived in Yushu around 9:30 in the morning.

Despite our tiredness and lack of oxygen, we were immediately awestruck by the beauty of the place we were in. The town is flanked by rolling hills and mountains with a river running through the outskirts. The sky is the clearest blue I’ve ever seen, and with summer months, come all colors of wildflowers. But I think what struck us most were the people there. As we walked down the streets, nearly every person we saw flashed us a genuine smile and called out “tashi dele!” which is a greeting Tibetans give to foreigners. Other common greetings included very broken English: “hello!”, “okay!”, “I love you!”, “goodbye!” and “demo!? (hello in Tibetan).

We were very thankful when we arrived at the youth hostel and the rooms we had reserved were still available. The beds were clean, the squatty potties flushed (which immediately made me question why they didn’t just go ahead and put a seat on it), and there was usually electricity. We ate three good meals a day consisting of either yak yogurt & fruit, yak meat baozi (dumplings) & fried bread, sweet & sour chicken with rice, or yak mian pian (noodle soup) and cucumbers. (Side note: yak tastes a lot like deer, so I’m really thankful my parent raised me on deer meat.)

While in Y.shu we visited the three spiritual strongholds / temples of the town. When Chen Temple, Mani Stone (prayer stone) Temple, and the Big gigantic temple up on the mountain overlooking the town. That is the monastery home to all the monks…the monks that drive land rovers, bmw’s, and Lexus’s. The monks that take money from the crippled and old people of the town who are trying to earn merit / good kharma. I’m a little saddened / ticked off at that aspect, can you tell???

The influence of those places on the entire area, and on the people in X.ning that are from there, is unmistakably obvious. We ran across hundreds of men and women spinning prayer wheels, walking around the sites clockwise, tossing carved prayer stones onto the numerous piles, and mumbling mantras to gain merit. I was hit each time with many thoughts and emotions that I still haven’t been able to process through, and I don’t expect understanding to come any time soon, if ever. I was deeply saddened as I watched old men and women who could barely walk climbing mountains to walk around the idol shrines, and realized that their pain in walking came from thousands upon thousands of walks around them to gain merit that doesn’t exist. (There are many dark and sadistic things I learned while I was there, that I don’t feel I should share on this email. If you want to know…I’ll tell you one on one.) Intense fear of idols, human effort to appease them and gain a better life after this one, was never more blatantly obvious to me than the time I spent in Yushu. But the hope I felt when I looked at the children there, knowing that a light is beginning to shine and they can get the opportunity to embrace the perfect life, sacrificial love, and hope in Christ, seemed more of a reality than the darkness that presently binds and oppresses them. At all the sites we visited, we took time and hiked to an area overlooking each and sang praise / worship songs, remembering Christ’s sacrifice and His glory in places where it seems forgotten…because after all, He has not forgotten the Kham people.

We were bombarded with the realization of homeless, starving and deformed people in the streets of Ch*na. Something I’ve never seen in the states and that is: A deformed child being put out in the streets on display so that he can raise money and food to support his family. And also, many homeless adults that were deformed or stricken with Leprosy needing food.

A portion of the money we raised for this trip was used to buy food at the market and go out in the mornings and give it to these people. Also, at night, we would take our left-overs from dinner out to them. Unfortunately, a lot of times, when they receive money, they will turn around and give it to a T.betan BVddhist monk in order to gain merit or good karma. We didn’t want to see our dollars go to that, so we ministered through food.

The Shackelford family we stayed with have 3 wonderful children. Two girls and one little boy. Every time we would go out on the streets, people would swarm us to look and touch the kids faces. Those three kids are amazing! They would use the opportunities to make friendship bracelets and hand them out to the children. I helped the girls out one night when they were making a bunch of them…and we handed them out the next day to all the little children at the Mani Stone temple.

The project we were with has one medical person on staff; Bonnie. She told us stories of a leprosy colony that she works with. Leprosy is still very active and shunned in Ch*na. She talked of an older woman that lived in a cave all by her self who didn’t have the use of her legs. Bonnie was able to minister to her through the medical help, and built her a cart on wheels in order for her to get up off the ground so that her wounds would heal. Bonnie is a one person team out there…meeting her was a delight and I would love it if in the future, our church could send a short term medical mission team out to help her. In the mean time…please pray for Bonnie. She was recently attacked by a T.betan Mastiff (or maybe it was just a mean wild dog…I’m not sure.) which fractured her back and broke her arm in numerous places. She is having to fly back to the states to have surgery. We’re praying for a safe journey, surgery and a quick return for her.

We returned to X.ning after 5 days in Y*shu on a pretty uneventful sleeper bus ride. YEAH! We were able to get some good R&R before heading back to "Bayshing" and then on home. We arrived in Fayetteville around 9pm Saturday night exhausted, overwhelmed, and ready to rest.

Love you,Shelli and Justin

And...I'm back!

2007-07-31T16:57:00.000-05:00

Here is a list of my favorite / funniest China moments:

1. Elipticle / Gazelle workout machines on every playground.

2. Sleeve protectors

3. Chinglish: Chinese characters translated very poorly into English. Example: For a Spanish or Latin Bakery = “Mail Jazz Westem (yes, westem. Not western) Caking Food Workroom”

4. Hailing a cab by waving your hand down and away from you.

5. The way they pronounce Coca Cola = Kuh Koh Kuh Luh

6. Hearing the word “HALLOW” yelled at me from little cute Chinese kids.

7. Egg Rolls haven’t made it to China yet…apparently.

8. Malinda referring to a Ricshaw as a “Rick Rack”. I love you Malinda!!!

9. Pointing with your lips or chin.

10. Monks on motorcycles.

Pictures and more stuff later!

"'Cause I'm leavin' on a jet plane..."

2007-07-12T12:08:00.000-05:00

"...I don't know when I'll be back again". (To the blogger world that is, I'll be back home on July 28th. But, not sure when I'll post.)

Yep, EARLY tomorrow morning...we're off to a land far far away, desperately in need of the love of Christ! I'm so excited!

I get to share in this journey with some extrememly awesome people (Erin J., Whitney V., Malinda M., Matt F., Preston M., Jesse L., Thomas C., and ofcourse, my Hubby Justin...just to name a few.)

Please keep us in your constant thoughts and prayers. We'll be leaning on those!

Later Tators! Talk to you in a couple of weeks....
Shelli

2007-06-26T15:32:00.000-05:00

WE'RE (pretty much) THERE!!!!!!!!

2007-06-26T15:29:00.000-05:00

Yep, we’ve now raised all but a mere $200.00. And…I’m pretty certain that more money is still coming in…which will, intern, help the other team members. I’M SO GLAD! And…we’ve only got 2 weeks of waiting left. Man, this is either going to be the fastest 2 weeks of my life, or the longest. I have some help though. Both weekends leading up to the trip, we’re going to be out of town. So THAT will help.

An old school Sunday school song to sum up my feelings:

“I’ve got the joy joy joy joy down in my heart. WHERE? Down in my heart. WHERE? Down in my heart. I’ve got the joy joy joy joy down in my heart. WHERE? Down in my heart to stay.

(Chorus)
…AND I’M SO HAPPY, SO VERY HAPPY, I HAVE THE LOVE OF JESUS IN MY HEART (down in my heart) AND I’M SO HAPPY, SO VERY HAPPY, I HAVE THE LOVE OF JESUS IN MY HEART.

And if the devil doesn’t like it, he can sit on a tack. OUCH! Sit on a tack. OUCH! Sit on a tack. And if the devil doesn’t like it, he can sit on a tack. OUCH! Sit on a tack to stay!

(Chorus)

I’ve got a peace that passes understanding down in my heart. YEAH! Down in my heart. YEAH! Down in my heart. I’ve got a peace that passes understanding down in my heart. YEAH! Down in my heart to stay. (I think those are the words…I could never quite understand what they were saying)

(Chorus)

So…pack your bags Pac Man, we’re off to China! (gulp…)

Echoing Lafe...

2007-06-23T10:48:00.001-05:00

I have to...wait, I MUST echo Lafe's blog.

"The Flight of the Conchords" is the greatest show to come along since "Kid's in the Hall" on HBO.

Check it out...love it...embrace it: http://www.hbo.com/conchords/

Only $800.00 more to go!!!

2007-06-18T09:02:00.000-05:00

Wow, we're SO close!

We've received $5,600.00 towards our mission trip. Only $800.00 more to go!

WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ALMOST THERE!!!

2007-06-08T17:13:00.001-05:00

We're getting so close! $4,700!!!! Only $1,700 more to go!!! So Close!

Keep those prayers coming in! We're definitely seeing the fruits of them! Thank you all for your love and support!

Wowser!!!

2007-06-01T10:30:00.000-05:00

6 More weeks, and I’ll be at 14,000 feet elevation. Wow…

Wondering just HOW high that is?

Mt. Everest (the highest peak in the world) between Tibet and Nepal is at 29,000.
Pikes Peak in Colorado is just barely over 14,000.
Fayetteville Arkansas is at 1,400.

So, I’ll be 10 TIMES higher than I am today.

So…yah…I’ll be wondering around a plateau that’s at 14,000 feet in elevation. YIKERS! And it’s relatively “flat”…comparatively speaking.

Anyway…

I love my friends. And I so so SO appreciate their prayers and advice (keep it comin'). But, it cracks me up…they’re all trying to “diagnose” of “figure out” why I’m not loosing weight.

“Increase your carbs”…
“decrease your carbs”…
“increase your calories”…
“cut out all sugar”…
“only work out 5 days a week and rest 2”…
“be active and work out 7 days a week”…
“cut out all wheat products or anything with gluten”…
“no dairy”…
“get plenty of dairy”…

Bottom line: I think everyone is just as frustrated as I am about this!!!

But…I have to, I MUST, keep reminding my self daily that this body is not mine, but a temple dedicated to the glory of God. If he wants to take this weight off of me…he will. He knows what I’m doing and how hard I’ve worked. “He knows the plans for me; plans to prosper and not fail”. (a very chopped up version of Jeremiah 29:11)

Today, I’m at peace. (But, remind me of that tomorrow.)

"You're anemic"...how generic!

2007-05-25T17:29:00.000-05:00

Well, not major medical problems here...PRAISE GOD! But, the doctor DID say that I'm "slightly anemic". Which would be about the 5 millionth time I've heard that in my life. I've gone up and down quite a bit in my life.

So, its lots of red meat and iron supplements for this chick. Which is ok with me...I LOVE ME SOME STEAK!!!!!!!!!!!!

But, in all honesty...complete honesty...I was sort of hoping that he would find that I have issues with my thyroid so that he could prescribe that miracle drug we've all heard about before. The one that thyroid patients take and they loose A TON OF WEIGHT!!!!!! Darn! Gonna have to keep fighting this battle of the buldge.

Back to the gym I suppose.

BLAH!

DARTH PAC MAN!

2007-05-22T11:55:00.000-05:00

Well, he's officially turned to the dark side. Which...in this case...is a good thing.

We're over 1/2 way to our Goal. THANK GOD! ...and thank you for all of your prayers. We're almost there!!!!!!!!! WOO HOO!!!!!!!!

And now, I give you "Darth Pac Man"...(cue the Empyrial March song)

I need to draw a little "darth helmet" on him. We'll see if he's wearing one for the next installment.

Update...

2007-05-18T10:57:00.000-05:00

Hey Everyone,
Just giving you an update…

I went to see the doctor that’s helping me out on this “weight loss / work out” thing I’m doing. I still haven’t lost any weight (well…ok…3 pounds) and he says that I should have seen a significant amount come off by now. He’s just as discouraged and confused as I am. (Yeah, I’m not crazy!)

So, “Hi Ho, Hi Ho…its off to the lab I go”. I’m getting some blood work done on Monday. He thinks that there has to be SOME medical reason why this weight isn’t falling off of me. He’s thinking my thyroid may be way off center. I mean…I’m eating around 1200 calories a day (sugar free I might add) and working out / breaking a sweat every single day. THAT’S A HUGE ADJUSTMENT!!!!!!!!!

Ok…so…this is scary and exciting all at the same time. Maybe my thyroid IS out of whack, and he’ll put me on medicine to fix it…and I’ll FINALLY lose some weight. Or, maybe there is something that is really wrong with me.

Maybe this is all a test of my faith…maybe God is allowing (like as to Job) satan to test and attack me. Maybe I’m not loosing weight because satan WANTS me to be discouraged and loose my hope and faith. WELL…YOU’RE A BIG JERK FACE satan, AND I’M NOT GONNA LET YOU WIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ( I WONT EVEN CAPITALIZE YOUR NAME)

Please continue to pray…

Little Green Apple...

2007-05-12T10:11:00.000-05:00

So, as many of you have read, I'm working out like a mad woman these days. Everyone has been so encouraging! Thank you.

...and you may also recall that I titled this little journey of mine the "4/13 Challenge 2007".

...and you may also recall that Justin and I are going on a mission trip soon. So, we are pinching pennies right and left. I desperatly need a hair cut and new hair dryer (both which will hopefully be fulfilled this weekend after our garage sale).

Well, a couple of weekends ago, Justin worked his tushy off to help out a friend run sound, lights and all that stuff at a big concert that came into town. Well, when he got paid, he used the money towards some temporary needs and told me that he "gave about 80 of it to Stu for helping him out at Church".

Justin always told me that the only time he would ever lie to me is if he had a big surprise for me up his sleeve.

WELL HE IS A LIAR INDEED!!!!

Justin used the money, that he supposedly "gave to Stu", to buy me a little green Ipod Shuffle to use while I work out. And he had "4/13 to strengthen me" engraved on the back!!!!!!!!! And green is my favorite color (and the color of my eyes). And...to make matters even worse...er...BETTER...STU WAS IN ON THE CON! Sly doggies!

Boy, I never realized just how much some music can really help you out and keep you motivated when working out. BUT IT SO SO SO DOES!!!! Its really helped me stay focused and meet little goals. (And by the way "Chaos" by MuteMath is perfect for 3.9 on the tred mill)

So...here she is...my little green apple:

Isn't she cute???????????????????????????????????

Pac Man Updates...

2007-05-03T08:50:00.000-05:00

HE GREW EVEN BIGGER OVER NIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!!!

For up to date info on our trip money aka "THE PAC MAN PIE CHART 2007", go to Justin and I's co-blog www.jones2ethne.blogspot.com

Which is now also on my sidebar as "PAC MAN"

HE'S GROWING!!!!!!!

2007-05-02T13:05:00.000-05:00

Pac Man’s mouth is opening wider!!!! Yeah!!!!!!! As of today, we are at $1665.00. THIS IS SO AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!

Please continue to pray…and also please pray for the other team members that are raising funds.

Oh, and I forgot to mention in my last post…this “pac man” pie chart is dedicated to Miss Karen.

Go PAC MAN Go!!!!! CHOMP CHOMP!

2007-04-25T14:11:00.000-05:00

Our monetary goal for our mission trip is to raise $6,400.00 and we’re at $620.00. Mr. Pac Man is chomping away at the dollars! See him go?

This pie chart…ur…um…I mean PAC MAN is to represent where we are with our goal, and where we need to be.

Can you help him open his mouth wider??? If so, please email Justin and I at jones2ethne@juno.com

For more info on our trip, go to www.jones2ethne.blogspot.com

Better now...

2007-04-23T12:45:00.000-05:00

Ok, one week down...and its getting easier. Praise God!

I think I'm too A.D.D. to just stay on an eliptical, stationary bike, or treadmill 4 days out of the week. On my "nothin' but cardio" days, I think I'm gonna have to go outside or get in a raquette ball court or something. I just get TOO bored.

I can't believe it...but my 3 "weights days" are my favorites. I think its because I'm changing things up and not getting bored.

Any suggestions for my cardio days?

Wow...

2007-04-20T10:50:00.000-05:00

So, um...if you work out consistently for an hour everyday...yah...

YOU HURT LIKE POO!!!!!!!!!!!

CHALLENGE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-04-16T10:50:00.000-05:00

Remember that episode of “The Cosby Show” where that old man was tap dancing, then he’d look at Bill and say “CHALLENGE”…then Bill would do a really silly tap dance in rebuttal and say “CHALLENGE”???

Well, I think that most of my friends already know this…but, I’ve began my very own version of “The Biggest Loser”. I have a doctor and a “trainer” (she’s not really a trainer, but she’s a “work out monkey” that knows her stuff) holding me accountable and helping me through a VERY intense 13 weeks of physical training until my mission trip in July. (see previous blog entry for more details)

I’m calling this transformation…(drum roll please)…

“THE 4 / 13 CHALLENGE”

For (4) thirteen (13) weeks, I will read the bible daily, eat right, work out for 1 hour every day minimum, and pray for the team that’s going on the mission trip.

Philippians 4:13 (get it?...4 / 13…13 weeks) “I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me”.

…so, maybe you’re not going on the mission trip, but can you pray for us? And maybe you don’t need to loose weight, but can you remember me in prayer as I try to? And maybe you already work out, can you encourage me to?

I need to get this thing copyrighted...cause DANG…that’s brilliant!

Protein, Chocolate Royal , 5am, Adam, Toprol and 20...

2007-04-13T14:39:00.000-05:00

Huh???

Protein?...Chocolate Royal?...5am?...Adam?...Toprol?...and 20?

Protein=the types of foods (good lean meats and LOTS of veggies) that I'll be eating for dinner every night, 7 days a week until I leave for my mission trip.

Chocolate Royal= the flavor of Slim Fast Optima that I'll be drinking for breakfast and lunch 7 days a week until I leave for my mission trip.

5am= the time I'll be arriving at the gym to workout for 1 hour 5 days a week. I'm sleeping in on Saturday and Sundays dang it! Although...I still have to work out for an hour.

Adam= the name of the doctor / friend that is whipping my butt in to shape for this trip.

Toprol=the blood pressure medicine that I've been on for 3 FREAKIN' YEARS that Adam thinks may have contributed to my weight gain, sluggishness and fatigue. Gee thanks "Dr. poo poo head that prescribed that stuff to me 3 years ago"...GEE THANKS!

20= THE NUMBER OF POUNDS THAT I'VE LOST SINCE CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!! AAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I couldn't believe it! I stepped on the scales this morning at Adams clinic...and I've officially lost 20 pounds since Christmas. OH MY GOODNESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I feel like Adam has me on my very own "Biggest Loser" TV show...but minus the cameras and EXTREMELY embarrassing "before" pictures in short shorts and a sports bra. NO THANK YOU.

wh...wha...WHAT?

2007-04-09T12:24:00.000-05:00

Hey All...
I'm just inviting you to go to Justin and I's new "co blog" www.jones2ethne.blogspot.com

We have an AWESOME opportunity to go on a mission trip this summer, and we're in the "raising support" phase. Please take a visit to our new blog to read all about it.

"Blades of Glory"...glory indeed.

2007-04-03T11:21:00.000-05:00

Great googly moogly this was a HILLARIOUS movie! I laughed my buttocks off at "Taledega Nights"...but let me tell you...I nearly pee'd my pants and cried like a baby for "Blades of Glory".

Oh, it is cheesy...there's no way around that fact...it is a cheese ball factory. But, oh my heavens...I just couldn't get enough of it.

I highly recommend going to see this movie for a good hee haw laugh.

I give it two jazz hands and a triple axle.

Spring time = Shelli's depressed about her size time

2007-03-24T12:14:00.000-05:00

What a beautiful time of year this is...trees are blooming, flowers are poking out of the ground and saying HELLO and little birdies are chirping and singing Gods praises all the time. THIS truly is a miraculous time of year.

Unfortunately, this is the time of year that Satan ATTACKS me more than ever. Everyone is starting to wear shorts, little flirty skirts and sleeveless tops. Which is all fine and dandy for the average woman...but, not me.

See...I LOVE my winter wardrobe. I love the turtle necks, I love the coats, jeans, long sleeve fluffy sweaters...and scarfs! Can't forget about the scarfs!!!

...but...

I think that I tend to use the winter wardrobe to hide away or as a crutch for my low self esteem / body image. I think that the more layers I wear, the more people are blind to the buldge beneath.

Summer is, for many large women, a horrible pain staking tormentuous time of year. Going to the lake / ocean and laying out is an anxiety attack waiting to happen. When other girls are going to J Crew to find their swimsuit for this season, we're avoiding or hiding out in Dillards or Lane Bryant trying to find one that doesn't look TOO "grandma" or too much like those Hippo's in TuTu's from Disneys Fantasia.

Who the "bleep" ever thought "if we just put a ruffle around the bottom of this swimsuit it will hide or mask EVERYTHING". Yah Right! GAG!!!

I really appreciate stores like "Lane Bryant" for at least TRYING to make the plus size swimsuit fashionable. The picture above is from JcPenny. YUCK! They fail in comparison.

Hip Hip Hooray for Spring time and Summer. NOT!

Happy Anniversary J!!!!

2007-03-20T09:52:00.000-05:00

Justin,
I fell in love with you while we were still in Highschool...God took his time with us, but and I'm so proud to call you my husband now!

Happy Anniversary! I love you so much...

Here's a little "Then and Now" for the daily reader:

3 years and counting...I love you! I guess since we're celebrating 3 years, this actually means that we're starting our 4th year. Whoa doggies...that's a lot of nights that you've had to look at my sleep apnea mask.

MR. BANGKOK, 2007!!!

2007-03-19T09:00:00.001-05:00

I would attempt to do a “Lafe’s Index” on this story…but, THIS is something that is too bizarre for one sentence sum ups.

Ok, I’m gonna try to do a “play by play” on this story so that I don’t miss ANY of the details:

Stuart, Martha (Stu’s mom), Whitney, Erin, and Maria were at one table, Gennie, Brian, Meredith and I were at another next to it enjoying dinner at Bangkok Thai restaurant last night, when the MOST BIZARRE evening began to unfold.

Our waiter was, what we believe to be, on drugs. Not sure what kind…but SOMETHING was in his system other than some great Gang Gha Ree Curry.

Our first clue was his constant swaying / ticks and the need to talk Talk TALK the entire time he was at our table. He would NOT stop talking. He was talking about nasty bars, the people in them, rats, his boss not being in a good mood, how the temperature was too hot in the room and he didn’t want to change it so he asked GENNIE to do it??, and lots of more random things.

(Hirsh-bombs response was something along the lines of “What the H#$%” and my response to that was “No, Brian…its worthy of a ‘What the Fudge’”…only, I didn’t say Fudge…actually, I said “fuhhhh”. Momma didn’t raise no fool!)

Anyway…waiter dude had sat us about 5 feet from the kitchen. Needless to say, we heard all kinds of chatter and back talk happening to his bosses.

Ok, I’m not exactly sure WHAT got us to this point in the story, but all things started unraveling…wait for it…here:

We started hearing him YELLING (literally) at the cooks who we found out (by ways of eaves dropping) were the bosses. They were yelling back at him, we heard numerous swear words, and lots of “DON’T TELL ME TO ‘FUDGEN’ SHUT UP”...only, he REALLY didn’t say “fudge”. (ok, remember…this is happening about 5 feet from our table).

We were starting to be a little frightened, mainly over the fact that we hadn’t got our food yet. Well, he came through and brought our food to us, and acted nice and calm as if nothing had happened at all, asked if “everything looked ok” then turned around and walked about 2 feet and started yelling again.

WEIRDNESS!!!!!!!!!!!!

In the course of all the yelling, the little Asian cook and his wife FIRED the waiter. We were like “uh…ok? Do we get our food for free”. Not so much! He came to our table with our tickets and said, now with a bit more flux and drama, “I’m sorry you had to listen to that…but I’m not gonna work for some “fudgen” tyrants”. WEIRDNESS!!!

Well, we decided that, unfortunately, we would not be leaving much of a tip for this gentleman and quickly made our way OUT of Bangkok.

Meredith and I decided that we wanted to hang out and drink some coffee / eat an EXTREMELY fattening piece of peanut butter pie a la mode. YUM! Well, while we’re at “The Common Grounds” coffee spot…WEIRD DUDE COMES IN!!!!!!!!! We immediately freak! We did NOT want this guy to see us…I mean…we DID just leave without tip. So, Meredith and I hid…YEP…hid from this guy until he left. Actually we just turned our chairs around and faced the wall. I’m sure everyone was wondering in their own minds: “What the ‘fudge’ are these girls doing”…and yep…they probably didn’t say fudge.

So, “HERE’S TO YOU MR. BANGKOK 2007”…thanks for making our night an interesting and enjoyable one to say the least.

I hope you are all now singing “One night in Bangkok”.

Hawks bill crag...

2007-03-13T09:50:00.000-05:00

These pictures are from the womens retreat with my church this weekend. We women of The Grove don’t settle for plush lifestyles and manicures…no no…give us a rustic cabin and some fresh air! Although…I must say…a plush lifestyle and a manicure sounds awfully nice right now.

This picture (taken by and belonging to Evelyn Stillwell) is out at “hawks bill crag” near the Buffalo River area in Arkansas. More pictures can be found at this website: http://www.grove-women.net/

...ps...I'm the little bitty purple spec in the middle of the group. If you want to learn more about "hawksbill crag" go to this website: ttp://theozarkmountains.com/hiking_trails.htm

Many of the girls on the trip went to an area called "Lost Valley" (which is also mentioned in the link above). I hear that it has a camping site too. I'm excited to explore MORE of my states natural wonders. One thing I can proudly say about Arkansas...ITS BEAUTIFUL. I couldn't say that about my original home state of Oklahoma....well...most of it anyway.

For Lafe...

2007-03-09T10:35:00.000-06:00

You’ll be happy to know that I did some research and feel confident in my geometrical…erg…I mean geographical knowledge of the Philippines.

"One give One Dollar...who'll make it Two..."

2007-03-05T14:27:00.000-06:00

…do you remember that song?

“One give me one dollar, who’ll make it two…two dollars…who’ll make it three? Three dollars twice, now that’s a good price, now who’s got a deal for me?” It was called “Touch of the Master’s hand” by (I think) Ray Boltz? Same guy who sang “Thank You…for giving to the Lord…I am a life, that was changed.”

Well, no, I’m not going to write a cheesy blog about an EXTREMELY cheesy “Contemporary Christian” song from the 80’s…but, I DID go to an auction this weekend…and that’s what got me onto the song.

My Grandpa Ogburn was an auctioneer for YEARS! This weekend, he and my Grandma auctioned off EVERYTHING and are going to start fresh. And by everything…I mean the furniture, the house and land too. They’ve lived in Arkansas long enough and they’re ready to go back home to Tulsa. I’m excited for them. They’ve been saying this for about 5 years now, and they’re FINALLY doing it. Grandma wants some new furniture and her and Grandpa didn’t feel like hauling all their old stuff over, so…they’re buying new stuff and having it delivered. AWESOME HUH? She’s also using this opportunity to go to different auctions and buy some “new to them” antiques.

My family’s great…but let me tell you…when we all get together, we’re ALWAYS bound to fight. I think it’s the Scottish in us. My mom did some geneology work on the family a couple of years ago and found our Scottish heritage. We’re part of a branch from the McDonald clan that mixed with some “Black Dutch”…and I don’t know if they were fighters…but we DEFINITELY are. But…we’ll fight for each other…to the death. We would have made fighting clansmen during the time of Willam Wallace. FREEDOM!!!!!

Anyway…some of the really pretty pieces of furniture that have been in the family a long time were bid on by some of my cousins…and they won. I’m glad that they’re staying in the family.

WHAT IN THE WORLD IS GOING ON???

2007-02-22T09:45:00.000-06:00

Do you ever feel like you're on the brink of something huge? Like...your life is getting ready to take a turn and it will never be the same again?

Justin and I are at that place right...wait for it...NOW.

We're in this class called Perspectives. www.arperspectives.org

This class is taking our view on Christianity and the world and FLIPPING it upside down. I just really feel like God is getting ready to do something huge in us. Any time anyone has ever asked us, "what are you going to do after Justin graduates"...we've always rattled off: "He'll get a job and work for a year or two, hopefully I’ll have a baby, then its off to Seminary and then eventually into the mission field full time". I mean…for goodness sakes, look at my post called “Palma de Mallorca, Spain…”

Well, within the last month, things have been happening / said to us that make us wonder maybe God has something COMPLETELY different for us. Things that we thought were “done deals” aren’t so “done” after all. However, one “plan” that has stayed true is MISSIONS. More than EVER before in my life, I’m ready to sell the house and all our belongings and go to the mission field. Somewhere along the way, if God wills, he will give us children. But…I’m all of the sudden, not so antsy about that aspect of my life. I’m more relaxed about the idea of “in God’s timing”.

Basically…all we can say “for sure” is that Justin is graduating in December. After that…who knows. Well, God does…but NOT US!

Friends of God: A Road Trip with Alexandria Pelosi

2007-02-19T12:14:00.000-06:00

DISCLAIMER: Before reading my blog today, please know that I don't claim to be an expert on biblical theology. I also represent no one else except myself when it comes to my statements and beliefs. They are MY thoughts.

Ok, "Friends of God: A Road Trip with Alexandria Pelosi" is a new documentary that just came out on HBO. Pelosi is the daughter of new Speaker of House, Nancy Pelosi.

THIS FILM MADE ME SICK AT MY STOMACH!!!!!!!!...for numerous reasons.

It is so sad, but sometimes my Evangelical Christian brothers and sisters say, what I think to be, the “wrong thing” or come across like idiots when filmed. Pelosi captured EXACTLY that image. On many different instances, throughout the film, I wanted to scream at the top of my lungs “YOU’RE MAKING US LOOK LIKE NON-EDUCATED FOOLS”. This statement was, unfortunately, not JUST pointed towards Pelosi, but in reaction to many of the individuals speaking.

I can’t stand the fact that she chose to primarily film (I did say primarily) and interview children when combating the topic of Creation vs. Evolution. Yes, what a fabulous idea…lets ask CHILDREN what they think about this. Children who have yet to establish their own ideas or been given the chance to reason and think logically. UGH! Look, I believe that scripture = truth. But, isn’t it also obvious that there are some MAJOR holes left out for our analytical thought and reason to draw conclusions? I believe that complete understanding MAY come in the afterlife. Ok, I’M GONNA SAY IT: Could it be possible for the belief of Creation AND Evolution to co-exist? SHOCK AND DISMAY!!!!!!!!!!!! I think so…

To quote a bumper sticker “THE BIG BANG THEORY: God spoke and BANG it happened”.

I was also really upset me because in the ENTIRE film, I don’t recall anyone speaking on behalf of global missions or that Christ was a man that served with humility to the poor, needy and un-loved.

The whole thing just rubbed me the wrong way. Christ was made to look like a fool…his believers were made to look like foolish, un-educated, narrow minded, right-winged republicans who couldn’t be swayed in any way shape or form. (And I'm a registered republican...so please don't freak out on me)

Are the Evangelical Christians reflecting Christ?...or their upbringing and Preachers?

What is REAL Christianity? What is REAL faith? If the greatest commandment is Love…then why aren’t ALL Christians giving and showing it?

I’m in a class right now, its called PERSPECTIVES…and man oh man!!!…it is taking my current perspective on life and what I thought was “Christianity” and FLIPPING IT UP SIDE DOWN.

Side note: I have a confession to make. A couple of weeks ago (before Perpectives slapped me in the face), I called a friend out on something he said that could have been considered "gross" or inappropriate. WHY DID I DO THAT? I think, down deep inside, I needed to point my finger at someone else’s mouth to make mine look better and more righteous. See...my tongue gets me in MORE trouble than anything else. It’s my stumbling block. Anyway, as soon as I did it…I felt nauseous and vile. Its like a voice from heaven floated down onto my ears to say “YOU’RE SWINGING THAT PLANK AROUND PRETTY QUICK SHELLI!!!!!!!!!”. Ugh…I really hate myself sometimes.

Back to the film…

Ok, I think that it would be a good idea for bible studies across the world to watch this thing. Why? I think that we all need a MAJOR slap in the face. We, the Evangelical Christians, are starting to look like the enemy and the idiots of this world. We are being persecuted and shamed more than ever…it seems. "Tolerance" seems to be the "it" word and idea right now. Hmmm...then why do WE seem to be the outsiders?

…well, anyway...Pelosi is now making appearances on the talk show circuit and has write ups in the NY Times. She’ll probably win an Oscar for best documentary.

I’M SO READY FOR HEAVEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!

To Tattoo Or Not To Tattoo...that is the question...

2007-02-13T14:02:00.000-06:00

For years now, I've been debating the idea of me with a tattoo. I don't exactly "show a lot of skin", nor would I want to...even if I was skinny. But, nevertheless, I've always wanted one. Just something to represent “me” and what I believe in.

So, here are some questions and my answers to them:

Isn’t it a sin? Well, it DOES say in Leviticus to not tattoo your skin. But, it also says no piercing and not to eat pork. In short…its “old law”. We have freedom in Christ. We are not longer conformed to old rules and laws. Next?

Is this in rebellion towards my parents / upbringing? Nope…not at all. My mom would probably just be a little confused by it. She would probably say something like “Doesn’t the bible say that you’re not supposed to get tattoos?” And to that I would say “Old Law…next?” My dad would just give me a little mini-guilt trip that would sound a little something like this: “Shelli…your flesh is my flesh. You are my daughter, a part of ME. I hate that you’ve defiled your beautiful body.” And to that I would probably say “Dad…don’t worry…it’s not permanent. It will be gone when we get to Heaven. So chill!” Next?

But what would your church/clergy think? Lets just say that I could see one my ministers going to the Tat parlor with me to get his own. (come on Harkey...you've always dreamed of that celtic design around your arm!!!) PS…have I ever mentioned how much I love my church? The Grove: www.thegrovechurch.org Next?

Why do you have to put a symbol or message on your skin? Why can’t you just live it out? AND HERE IS MY HANG UP! This is the one that gets me. Do I REALLY need something tattooed on my skin in order to make a statement? Is this just a fad and I’ll regret it in about 10 years? Well, I don’t know about the regretting part, but I can definitely say that it is not a current ‘fad’. I mean…if it’s mentioned in the book of Leviticus…it must be a pretty old tradition? But, will I regret it? Dang…I don’t know.

OH GEEZ!!!!!!!!!!...I JUST DON’T KNOW!!!!!

What do YOU think?

Mayer and Rouse, through the words of Bobby:

2007-02-08T09:17:00.000-06:00

Last week, Justin and I were offered tickets to go see John Mayer w/ Josh Rouse at the U. of A. Barnhill Arena. I’m a fan of John Mayer, although sometimes his music is kind of “college rock gone pop”. Justin is a huge fan of Josh Rouse…so, we were pumped.

I’ve decided to rank the artists according to “What would Ricky Bobby Say”: On a scale ranking from “HELP ME TOM CRUISE, ‘CAUSE THIS SUCKS” up to “OH MY DEAR BABY JESUS! THAT WAS AMAZING!!!”, I’ll give Josh Rouse a “Shake N’Bake”. Fun, enjoyable…but not quite over the top. John Mayer??? True, his lyrics and radio hits are pretty good. You can sing to them…play them on guitar, and they bring back lots of memories. BUT HOLD YOUR HORSES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......

Has anyone seen this man live???????? He freak’n ROCKS MY FACE off on guitar. I would give him a “Smokin’ hot wife in a Crystal Gail T-shirt” ranking. ALMOST worthy of “OH MY DEAR BABY JESUS! THAT WAS AMAZING!!!” I think that in about 10 years or so…he will DEFINITELY have earned, nay even surpassed that ranking.

This picture was taken from our friends Adam and Cyndi. I call it "The Mayer Grunt face"...

....Later Tators!!!

Palma De Mallorca, Spain...

2007-02-01T12:27:00.000-06:00

Have I ever mentioned that my husband is Spanish? Well, he's not...but, he was BORN in Spain...and was raised in Singapore...so that makes him pretty cool.

This year, Justin is scheduled to graduate in December. What does that mean for us? Well...lots actually.

1. We're going to Spain

Yep, we've finally decided that we are GOING TO GO to Palma de Mallorca Spain this year. He doesn't remember anything there and he's always wanted to go back. So...as a graduation present...we're going! We'll probably go during the off season, so hopefully we'll get a great deal. We're also planning on staying about 3 days in London. I'm so pumped about this

2. Starting a family???

Also a graduation present will (God willing) be the announcement of a pregnancy. We're going to start trying probably around December or January-ish. Yes 2007...like...a year from now.

3. Hopefully I can quit my job.

If Justin can replace my salary, and I turn up prego...then, I'll probably quit. I'm ready to sit on my nest and be a homemaker.

We'll see how this next year unfolds.

As long as we're in the Lord's will and healthy...I've got no complaints. (remind me of that comment later on in the year when I'm complaining about something.)

So...29?

2007-01-31T15:15:00.000-06:00

Well...FINE! I'll turn 29! It doesn't mean that I'll like it.

Today, I celebrate the beginning of my 30th year of life by celebrating my 29th birthday.

And...today it is SNOWING to high heavens. Which reminds me of my 8th birthday when it blizzared in Tulsa and the only person that showed up for my party was a little Tate Oney. Hmmm...I wonder what ever happened to her? THANKS TATE!

Anyway...I hope YOU all have a great day like myself!

Boo Hissy!

2007-01-27T10:17:00.000-06:00

I would say that approximately ½ of my day yesterday was spent in the bathroom. There is this “stomach thing” going around…yah…NOT FUN.

Someone told me that, according to the paper, there was an alarming amount of kids out from school yesterday with the same thing. I know that one of our bank branches had to send home about 5 or so people with it. I ended up going home around noon…and I BARELY made it home without having to pull over.

…oh, and did I mention that I had to WORK today…a Saturday. Boo Hissy!

…maybe its biological warfare. “lets make them all have diarrhea and puke all day! Muhahahhahah!!!!!”

CUTE DOG ALERT!!!!!

2007-01-25T12:02:00.000-06:00

Is my dog Indianna cute...OR WHAT? She looks so innocent.

She's coming up on her 2nd birthday, and she is VERY much STILL a puppy. She's not ripping up the carpet anymore though...so that's good. OH...I LOVE HER!

"Rollin' With the Homies"...

2007-01-16T12:24:00.000-06:00

Did anyone fall into the chat room craze of the late 90’s? During my freshman and sophomore years of college, I would DAILY go to the “Frank Sinatra” chat room. People would talk as if THEY were a member of the rat pack. We would discuss going out swing dancing…drinking “high ballers” and “low ballers” (what IS that by the way?)…and I’d melt when some guy would say things like “Come Fly With Me baby”. Although, instead of quoting Sinatra lines...I would quote movies like "Clueless", "Say Anything" and "Much Ado About Nothing". One time…IT ONLY TOOK ONCE…I agreed to meet one of the guys in a public setting with some of his friends and some of mine. I’ve never drank a cup of coffee SO FAST in my life. We were there MAYBE 10 minutes.

OH GEEZ!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes, chat rooms are still VERY much alive, however, they’ve turned more towards teenage drama and scary predators. Is it just me, or is it the same way with the blogging world now? I’ve noticed that (besides the crazed teenager on “myspace”)Very few (atleast in my circle of friends) are still keeping up to date with daily blogs. Most are “once a monthers” or maybe even the “every other monther”.

To quote Gennie with a G: “blogging is SO 2005”. I think she just might be correct.

My friend Ellen ( www.thereignofellen.blogspot.com )has officially said goodbye. She was one of the matriarchs of this blogging phenomenon. If SHE is bowing out…then TONS of others are sure to follow suit. However, SHE is a stay at home mommy and has a handful…what is our excuse?

I used to feel this “need” to blog EVERY SINGLE STINKIN’ DAY. As if other people out there had nothing better to do with their time…they depended on me…they were sitting in excited anticipation for my next post. AS IF!

…all this gobbledy goop to say: I’m just gonna play it by ear. I may or may not blog. I went out and even created a new site at another competitor blog place, but didn’t have the motivation to continue with it!

So, maybe you’re wearing a “VIVA LA BLOG” shirt…or maybe you carved “blogging is so 2005” in your desk. Either way…as far as I’M concerned…I’m just gonna keep “rolling with the homies” and wander back to the blog every once in a while.

Hellllllooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-01-10T11:00:00.000-06:00

Well hello there!
I've been gone for a week and am just now getting around to blogging a post. YAWN...

Anyway, I've got a new "do". I went with a hybrid of the short bob and the sassy flippy. Basically, I can do either. YEAH!

Its dark brown with red highlights...me likey!

I'll put a pick up when I can.

Later tators!