Okay, wow. Can you believe 2008 is over? It's unreal. It feels like time has sped up even more and here we are starting a brand new year.
2008 has been a very good, but very hard year for me. I've learned a lot about myself and because of that changes are in store my new year. And I think for the first time in my life, I'm okay with change. I don't usually like change, but this change is exciting.
Has anyone ever kept their New Year Resolutions? I don't think I have, but I always seem to make a list nonetheless! Here they are in no order.
1. Complete as many college classes as possible.
2. Lose 30-40 pounds
3. Read one book a week (anyone want to do this with me and see who wins?!)
4. Buy a car (haha! we'll see how this goes!)
5. Paint like crazy
6. Exercise once a day
7. Get up early (like before 7am!)
I think that's all. I'll let you guys know what I'm reading each week and I'll confess like a good little girl if I don't finish. But, hey, can I make up if I read two in one week?!
Happy New Year everyone!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Friday, December 26, 2008
Christmastime
As you can see from my check marks, I had everyone's secret person correct! I knew four of them already (not including my own), but the others I purely guessed at! It made me deliriously happy for some reason!
It was RG's idea to guess and I thought it was grand, but Christmas morning the little boys and I were the only ones who wanted to guess. Ech. Siblings can be party poopers!
A Christmas story for you. Micah, my youngest brother, needed to shop for his secret person. He had asked everyone who could drive and they were all busy, so I agreed (this was the second time he'd asked me). We were driving to Wal-Mart and going back and forth about "If you tell me, I'll tell you!" concerning our secret person; we love guessing and teasing each other trying to see some failing in hiding emotions or keeping your expression neutral when they correctly say who you have! It's so much fun! But finally we decided to share. I told him and then asked who he had. "You." He said like it was nothing. "Me?! Then why am I taking you shopping?" My mind was going crazy. How can I take him shopping, but, yet, not find out what he gets me?!
"Because you're the only one who would take me!" He sounded almost desperate and I knew how badly he wanted to go so we kept going. I was frantically trying to figure out how to to let him shop without me.
By the end of our 30 minute drive I had it worked out. I was going to ask a worker to walk him around the store. I was amazed. They actually did that and he was able to shop without me safely! I was so relieved. And I had no idea what he'd purchased for me. We made a deal not to tell anyone that I knew!:)
He was so sweet. He asked dad for my Christmas list and after looking at every thing he choose to get me coffee cups and a saucer. I had asked for espresso cups and saucers, but his gift was much better because he put thought into them. I collect coffee cups so it was perfect. He also knows I love to read so he purchased the first book in Stephanie Myers Twilight series. I finished it today.
Let me tell you, I have never been so sucked into a book as this one. It weird almost. I couldn't stop. Bethany picked it up and started reading it while we were driving to town today and I was ok with that because I can't drive and read. It's kinda dangerous you know. But once we got home neither one of us wanted to let the other read it. But since it was my gift, I got to read it! I understand why so many of my friends have been pulled into the movie and books. It has everything a girl/woman is looking for in a story. Romance, intrigue, danger, a handsome and glorious hero who desires to protect and shield our leading lady.
I haven't seen the movie, but I had read the review for it and I had no plans to read or really even watch the movie (even though I did want to watch it). But I read the book since Micah gave it to me and I'm glad I did. Stephanie Myers is an incredible writer! She weaves words like a master basket maker. The book is like perfectly aged wine or the most luxurious chocolate. It's so desired once you begin. I'll admit the story starts a little slow since Bella's dull life is as fascinating as dog poop. But then Edward walks in and, and... and he is more than amazing. He unreal. I don't know how to describe him.
I can't wait to read the other books in the series. I think Bethany and I are going to buy them tonight after we watch the movie. Which is where I'm headed now! I am so excited. I'll let you know how I like the movie. Have a great evening! I hope your Christmas was as perfect as mine!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Christmas Break
The whole family is together. It's wonderful.
I love Christmas. First because it's a celebration of the birth of my Savior. He was the fulfillment of all the promises in the Old Testament. He came to earth knowing He would have to die and loving His Father enough to be obedience and save me (and you) from certain and eternal death. I love that. It amazes me.
The second reason I love Christmas is because it's happy and cheerful; we get to sing fun, lovey-dovey Christmas songs; we give gifts; have parties; visit with old and new friends; send Christmas cards, etc. I just love all of it! What's your favorite part of Christmas?
Since my siblings have gone on Christmas break they have been playing Mario Carts like crazy! It is the most annoying game ever. I am such a competitive person and that game makes me so mad. I lose all the time. But it's fun and we all like to sit and play or at least watch while others play. I hate the races that you can fall off the sides. It makes my stomach quench when others are playing and just frustrates the life out of me when I'm playing because I ALWAYS fall off.
We play Secret Santa (even though we don't call it that). We kids draw names and buy gifts for our "Secret Person". It usually takes us four, five maybe a good ten draws before no one has their own name. It's crazy fun! This year it was a little sad it only took us two draws. It wasn't as much fun. But oh well. We all try to guess who has who and what the person has bought for their Secret Person. I love it. I'll write more about this after Christmas. I think I know who at least five of us have as our SP!
I do most of the baking in our family, but when Christmas comes around, there is one thing I do not bake. Sugar cookies. I make the dough, but that is all. I can't stand people being in the kitchen with me and sugar cookies are perfect to cut out and bake with family and friends so I don't cut or bake. And I'm more than fine with it. It's my siblings special time with Bethany. They do it every year and have the grandest time!
I will try to post again soon after Christmas. Have a very merry Christmas and don't forget why we celebrate Christmas to start with.
I love Christmas. First because it's a celebration of the birth of my Savior. He was the fulfillment of all the promises in the Old Testament. He came to earth knowing He would have to die and loving His Father enough to be obedience and save me (and you) from certain and eternal death. I love that. It amazes me.
The second reason I love Christmas is because it's happy and cheerful; we get to sing fun, lovey-dovey Christmas songs; we give gifts; have parties; visit with old and new friends; send Christmas cards, etc. I just love all of it! What's your favorite part of Christmas?
Since my siblings have gone on Christmas break they have been playing Mario Carts like crazy! It is the most annoying game ever. I am such a competitive person and that game makes me so mad. I lose all the time. But it's fun and we all like to sit and play or at least watch while others play. I hate the races that you can fall off the sides. It makes my stomach quench when others are playing and just frustrates the life out of me when I'm playing because I ALWAYS fall off.
We play Secret Santa (even though we don't call it that). We kids draw names and buy gifts for our "Secret Person". It usually takes us four, five maybe a good ten draws before no one has their own name. It's crazy fun! This year it was a little sad it only took us two draws. It wasn't as much fun. But oh well. We all try to guess who has who and what the person has bought for their Secret Person. I love it. I'll write more about this after Christmas. I think I know who at least five of us have as our SP!
I do most of the baking in our family, but when Christmas comes around, there is one thing I do not bake. Sugar cookies. I make the dough, but that is all. I can't stand people being in the kitchen with me and sugar cookies are perfect to cut out and bake with family and friends so I don't cut or bake. And I'm more than fine with it. It's my siblings special time with Bethany. They do it every year and have the grandest time!
I will try to post again soon after Christmas. Have a very merry Christmas and don't forget why we celebrate Christmas to start with.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Mothers (and Fathers)
Those I love, I love fiercely. I will do anything to protect them. Once you have my trust I will be more loyal than your favorite dog. I especially feel that way towards my family. I would give up my life for my family. I'd rather be starving in freezing rain and naked than to see any of them hungry, cold and without shelter.
I felt that way about my mom. But I never thought the feelings were mutual. I didn't see that she loved me. I don't know when or exactly why I felt that way. I have some ideas, but I don't know for sure. I do know that from a little girl, I tried everything to get her attention and it continued throughout my teens and I'm sure up until she died. I was desperate for her attention and couldn't ever get it. It was always tied up in one of my siblings or another child. The few things I knew I did well at, I wanted to do them all by myself; like playing piano or driving. I did those well and didn't want any of my brothers or sisters to play piano - I wanted her to see what I could do. And driving, I remember her teaching a friend, and it made me so mad because she just sat there praising that girl for all she was worth and I never had any of it even though out of all of my driving siblings and even that girl, I was the best.
It hurt so much. It still hurts. But you know what hurts more? The knowledge that my relationship with my mom will never be right. I will always have the memories of the last few months she was alive doing nothing but arguing with her. I will never have the chance to tell her again that I love her. Never have the chance to tell her even though she couldn't see she'd hurt me that I forgave her. I will never have a chance again to show or tell my mom anything.
So I'm encouraging all of you. If you have a strained or broken relationship with anyone (mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, or friends) do all you can to make it right. You may not have that chance again.
It's Christmastime and what better gift than the gift of forgiveness and love?
I felt that way about my mom. But I never thought the feelings were mutual. I didn't see that she loved me. I don't know when or exactly why I felt that way. I have some ideas, but I don't know for sure. I do know that from a little girl, I tried everything to get her attention and it continued throughout my teens and I'm sure up until she died. I was desperate for her attention and couldn't ever get it. It was always tied up in one of my siblings or another child. The few things I knew I did well at, I wanted to do them all by myself; like playing piano or driving. I did those well and didn't want any of my brothers or sisters to play piano - I wanted her to see what I could do. And driving, I remember her teaching a friend, and it made me so mad because she just sat there praising that girl for all she was worth and I never had any of it even though out of all of my driving siblings and even that girl, I was the best.
It hurt so much. It still hurts. But you know what hurts more? The knowledge that my relationship with my mom will never be right. I will always have the memories of the last few months she was alive doing nothing but arguing with her. I will never have the chance to tell her again that I love her. Never have the chance to tell her even though she couldn't see she'd hurt me that I forgave her. I will never have a chance again to show or tell my mom anything.
So I'm encouraging all of you. If you have a strained or broken relationship with anyone (mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, or friends) do all you can to make it right. You may not have that chance again.
It's Christmastime and what better gift than the gift of forgiveness and love?
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Life and Tonight's Supper
I've been sick. It was so weird. It started off as a sore throat, then went to chills (four blankets and two layers of clothing weren't enough to keep me warm) and a headache. The sore throat just got worse and to top it all off I got a cough. It was completely terrible; Bethany said it sounded like a smokers cough. Yeah.
But after a week of doing nothing but driving my siblings to and from work and drinking hot lemon water (no sugar or honey) I'm feeling much better. Still have a bit of a cough, but I'm not contagious and feel like myself.
Since I was sick I didn't do any cooking (that I remember) so since Sunday I have been cooking like crazy. I love reading food blogs. I love hearing the stories behind the recipes and seeing what other people have cooked.
Sunday I made Sweet Potato Soup. It was really good. I just boiled 6-8 potatoes, blended them with the water from boiling, poured them back in the pot; blended 8oz cream cheese, almonds, ginger and allspice with a little bit of my blended potatoes and then put that into the pot as well with a cup of brown sugar and then took my hand blender and blended everything until it was smooth. I did that because the cream cheese kinda clumped when I mixed it with the hot potatoes.
Last night I made spaghetti noodles, homemade spaghetti sauce (haha! made with canned diced tomatoes; it was almost like salsa) with maple sausage (I cooked it in maple syrup) and then cooked kale like you would greens.
Tonight I made green lentils topped with an almond sauce and cranberry meatballs with fresh homemade cranberry sauce (with just a bit of maple syrup) on the side.
The picture above is from tonight just for Bethany!! :)
I've also done some baking. I made cheesecake. It is in a cookie sheet and will be cut into small squares Friday for my Christmas party. I've also made a huge pan of Blondies. I've never made those before so hopefully they turn out.
I hope you all stay well. Being sick is no fun. And I hope you all cook something new and different! It's so much fun. Variety is the spice of life and life is too short to spend doing the same thing over and over!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
2008 Lydia's Choice Awards
Welcome to the 2nd Annual Lydia's Choice Awards 2008*
I just want to say that I love all of you so much. You are precious to me and it’s my joy to be able to do this. To tell you (at least) once a year how much you mean to me; what reminds me of you. God has blessed me beyond words and I am honored to call each and every one of you my friend.
Best Person of the Year -
1. Father Love (I am in awe more and more of Your love and forgiveness for me. The mere fact that You chose to save me from certain death is astonishing. That knowledge alone makes me want to serve You with all of my heart, mind and soul.
2. Ron Paul (Thanks for being a voice of reason in our crazy political world.)
3. Hannah M. (I amazed that you have put up with our family. You have endured a lot and I admire you for that.)
Best Female Friends of the Year -
1. Bethany and Anna (I love you both so much. I love spending time with you guys. We laugh, cry, challenge each other, get mad and forgive. I have the best sisters in the universe!)
2. Anna Kathleen (I love and miss you. I know you are busy with school, but I miss hearing about your life, send me an email or call! We should get together over Christmas.)
3. Carrie (You are my dearest girl friend in Hawkinsville. I love hanging out with you. You make me laugh and you know how to light up a room. Your heart for the Lord is amazing.)
4. Ms. Leah (I'm so thankful for your godly wisdom, advice and encouragement. I don't know what I'd do without you. I love you.)
5. Annie (Thank you for your friendship. You are the sweetest person I've ever met. Your children are incredible. I've told Bethany that your kids are what I've always imagined her children to be like: smart, beautiful, polite and sweet as can be. I love talking with them. You and Ed have much to be proud of. I look forward to many more years of godly fellowship with you and your family.)
6. Hannah R. (So we may not be best friends [yet!], but I cannot tell you how much I am looking forward to getting to know you better! You make my day. I love just being around you. The sweet aroma of our Lord shines forth in your life and through your heart. You amaze me. I wish I could be more like you.)
Best Male Friends of the Year -
1. Joe (Even though I don't like staying up late to get you from work, I cannot tell you how much the time spent during those car rides have meant to me. It means so much that I can tell you everything and I know it won't go beyond us. I love you.)
2. James (God put you in my life right when I needed you. I love you. Thanks for being my brother; for calling to check on me; remembering things I don't even remember telling you; encouraging me. I thank our Lord for you.)
3. RG (You have opened my eyes to so many things. In the past year my relationship with the Lord has grown in leaps and bounds and it's because you allowed the Holy Spirit to speak through you. I have been convicted, released, moved and challenged in so many ways. I am very thankful for your friendship. I trust you and tell you just about everything. You are incredible.)
Funniest Person of the Year -
1. Joe (I had to leave you in first! You are still the funniest person I know and I love when we go past being G rated! Lunch conversations are amazing!)
2. Jesse (You and Joe had to have been twins separated at birth! I love it when you come to the house and just hang. You are part of our family.)
3. Bethany (Oh my word. I can't have a conversation with you without laughing.)
4. Micah and Spank (Wow. You guys crack me up! It seems like the older you two get the funnier you get! I love you guys!)
5. Chad (Just thinking about you puts a smile on my face. Thanks for being my friend!)
Happiest Person of the Year -
1. Wren R. (I have never seen you as happy as you've been since Kendall's birth. It's so sweet. I'm praying for a baby boy by the way. :) Every family needs a boy!)
2. Bonnie (I don't think I've ever heard of you being unhappy. You are so joyful and I love your spirit.)
3. Kasey Wyms (You are so upbeat! I’ve never seen you down; it’s awesome.)
4. Jess G. (Girl, you have to be the happiest person I know. When we talk you are so excited about life and the future and it makes me excited. I’m sorry we didn’t get to hang out last week, but we will! Soon.)
Craziest Person of the Year -
1. Joe (haha. You are crazy!)
2. Jesse (you and Joe are just great. You're crazy. Insane. And I love being around you guys!)
3. David Allen (It won’t surprise me if you blow something up one day and come inside without hair or eye-brows! I’m going to laugh my head off too! Love.)
Most Loving Person of the Year -
1. Dad (I think you are the best dad ever. I love you.)
2. My Lord and Savior (Daily I am moved by your deep and unconditional love for me. I would be nothing without you. Keep me close. Be my only desire.)
3. Jess W. (Thank you for being there for Bethany. I hate that she can't be with the family, but it makes me feel so much better knowing that she has loving and supportive friends at TFC.)
Most Challenging Person of the Year -
1. Bethany (You make me so mad sometimes, but I don't know what I would do without you to make me dig deeper and truly get to the bottom of things I don't even want to deal with. I think you are wonderful.)
2. RG (I really don't know what to say. You probably don't even know it, but your friendship has been very challenging. You've made me mad a few times!)
3. Ms. Leah (I know that I can count on you to tell me like it is and not hold anything back... especially since we are so much alike and you just understand me!)
Most Beautiful (Female) of the Year -
1. Bethany (You are... inside and out. I still want to be like you in every way I can without changing "me" and that includes your outward and inward beauty.)
2. Bethany Mac (You are still the most beautiful woman I know!)
3. Sara (I know this may be a bit irritating, but I really hope it's not. I hadn't seen you in years and when I looked at your pictures and saw how much you'd grown up I was amazed. You are incredibly beautiful and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.)
4. Hannah R. (You are one of those girls that have an endless list of good qualities! You are lovely and not just on the outside.)
Most Drop-Dead Gorgeous (Male) of the Year -
1. Caleb, Joe, David, John Mark and Micah (I seriously have the most gorgeous brothers ever! Ya'll are just soo handsome!)
2. Jared Wagnac. (You are good looking!)
3. RG (All the ladies think so!)
4. Jonas Quinn (from Stargate SG1!! lol. My brothers watch that show all the time and I think he's pretty good looking!)
Most Talented Person of the Year -
1. David Allen (How in the world you can do all the things you can and do are awesome. I am proud of you. You're smart and I can't wait to see what the Lord has in store for you!)
2. Marianna (Girl, you know how to break it down! You can dance!)
3. Carrie (You are soo good on the guitar! It's been awesome to hear your gift. The Lord has blessed you.)
Most Mysterious Person of the Year -
1. The guy down the road who has a sweet truck, a very scary dog and a small house.
Best Personality of the Year -
1. Meg (I just love you. We need to get together sometime soon.)
2. Annie W. (You remind me of my mom. She loved life; never met a stranger; had a heart for not only her children, but kids in general; loved to encourage and pray for others. I see all of that and more in you. You are such a blessing.)
3. Micah (I love when we get sarcastic with each other; it’s like what it would be if I was talking to my twin or clone. I think we should get started on our talent for next year!)
Wonder Woman of the Year -
1.Carrie (I have worried about you with everything you've taken on this year, but you've handled it all with amazing strength. God has been your refuge and the fact that you lean on Him and trust him in all things has been so encouraging.)
Super Man of the Year -
1. Dad (You are still my hero. The way you took care of Mom during all of the years she was sick and then the way you've taken care of us kids - wow. I want to marry a man who is as dedicated to his family as you are.)
2. Jonathan Knight (I am so proud of you. You have worked long and hard to get where you are. Keep fighting the good fight.)
Most Inspiring Person of the Year -
1. Carrie (Your passion for the Lord and for other people has inspired me in more ways than you'll ever know. You've reminded me that I need to love people no matter who they are or what they've done. Thanks girl. I love you!)
2. Sara (I was so encouraged that there were young people interested in politics. It’s so important. I have a great amount of respect for you because of not only your interest, but your ability to discuss it without getting heated if someone disagrees with you. Keep at girl! I’m excited with you to see the great things Obama is going to do for our country.)
Most Helpful Person of the Year -
1. Ms. Susie and Ms. Mary Jane (I cannot tell you guy’s thank-you enough. The way you stepped in and pulled together a meal for the volleyball night was stunning. I was overwhelmed by your hard work and willingness to help me.)
2. Marianna (I think I would have pulled out my hair by now if you weren't here to help me! You do so much and I'm afraid a lot of it goes unnoticed. But I have seen and I appreciate and love you very, very much.
Most Encouraging Female of the Year -
1. Ms. Leah (Wow. You have been a major source of encouragement for me. I am so thankful for your wisdom and guidance. You have become my mother figure and I couldn't have asked for a better one. Thanks for always being available to talk and for praying for and with me.)
2. Bethany (I love you. I love that God saw fit to make us sisters. Goodness, He knew I'd need you! I can't wait for our trip to Europe! We're going to have soo much fun!)
3. Marianna (I love you too. We are so crazy together, but at the same time, I know I can count on you for anything. )
Most Encouraging Male of the Year -
1. James (Need I say more? I love my big brother!)
2. Joe (You’ve become one of my best friends! I love you so much. Thanks for listening to all of my craziness!)
3. RG (Thank you for encouraging me to pursue life beyond what I’m doing now. I needed it.)
Best “Old” or New Female Friend of the Year -
1. Annie (I can’t wait to visit again.)
2. Hannah R. (I am praying for you.)
3. Anna Kathleen (We need to talk more!)
4. Ginger (I love you. You are incredible. Thanks for being my friend and for praying for me.)
Best “Old” or New Male Friend of the Year -
1. Jared Wagnac (You are so sweet and when you give me a hug and ask how I’m doing it makes me smile. I’m glad we’re friends!)
2. John H. (My first big brother. I can remember growing up and wishing I had a big brother and even asking God why He hadn’t given Bethany and me one. And then He sent you! I miss you, but am very thankful for Facebook so I can keep up with you. I think and pray for you and Kim often.)
3. Jay Pope (You are such a dear friend. Praying for you.)
Best Dressed Female of the Year -
1. Candace (You are always so artsy in your style. It fits you perfectly and it’s simply adorable!)
2. Marianna (I love how you are not afraid to rock Hville with your style! Keep those hats coming!)
3. The Mac Girls (All three of you look like models! You are all just gorgeous.)
Best Movie of the Year -
1. The Boy in the Striped Pajamas (It was moving. I highly recommend it.)
2. Fireproof (If you haven’t seen this movie, go watch it!)
3. The Dark Knight (It was surprisingly good. Well, the parts I watched were… I covered my eyes for a good bit of the movie!!)
Best Music of the Year -
1. Jadon Lavik (Love his latest CD - Roots Run Deep)
2. Anything with Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., or Nat King Cole (I love all of them!)
Best Books (I've read!) of the Year -
1. 9 Marks of a Healthy Church by Mark Dever (It was enlightening).
2. The Love Dare (I’ve only read a few pages, but it was incredible.)
3. Wounded by Claudia Mair Burney (I love her books, but this one was almost hard to read. When I read, I get into the character and feeling her pain was real; it broke my heart. But I loved it.)
Best Music Videos of the Year -
1. Jonas Brothers Love Bug (Super cute!)
Thus ends the 2008 Lydia's Choice Awards!
**These "Awards" are to make you laugh, cry, wonder, and hopefully laugh some more. I hope they weren't taken in the wrong way at all. I didn't mean for them to hurt anyone. Please let me know if that occurred and I will do my best to fix it.
I just want to say that I love all of you so much. You are precious to me and it’s my joy to be able to do this. To tell you (at least) once a year how much you mean to me; what reminds me of you. God has blessed me beyond words and I am honored to call each and every one of you my friend.
Best Person of the Year -
1. Father Love (I am in awe more and more of Your love and forgiveness for me. The mere fact that You chose to save me from certain death is astonishing. That knowledge alone makes me want to serve You with all of my heart, mind and soul.
2. Ron Paul (Thanks for being a voice of reason in our crazy political world.)
3. Hannah M. (I amazed that you have put up with our family. You have endured a lot and I admire you for that.)
Best Female Friends of the Year -
1. Bethany and Anna (I love you both so much. I love spending time with you guys. We laugh, cry, challenge each other, get mad and forgive. I have the best sisters in the universe!)
2. Anna Kathleen (I love and miss you. I know you are busy with school, but I miss hearing about your life, send me an email or call! We should get together over Christmas.)
3. Carrie (You are my dearest girl friend in Hawkinsville. I love hanging out with you. You make me laugh and you know how to light up a room. Your heart for the Lord is amazing.)
4. Ms. Leah (I'm so thankful for your godly wisdom, advice and encouragement. I don't know what I'd do without you. I love you.)
5. Annie (Thank you for your friendship. You are the sweetest person I've ever met. Your children are incredible. I've told Bethany that your kids are what I've always imagined her children to be like: smart, beautiful, polite and sweet as can be. I love talking with them. You and Ed have much to be proud of. I look forward to many more years of godly fellowship with you and your family.)
6. Hannah R. (So we may not be best friends [yet!], but I cannot tell you how much I am looking forward to getting to know you better! You make my day. I love just being around you. The sweet aroma of our Lord shines forth in your life and through your heart. You amaze me. I wish I could be more like you.)
Best Male Friends of the Year -
1. Joe (Even though I don't like staying up late to get you from work, I cannot tell you how much the time spent during those car rides have meant to me. It means so much that I can tell you everything and I know it won't go beyond us. I love you.)
2. James (God put you in my life right when I needed you. I love you. Thanks for being my brother; for calling to check on me; remembering things I don't even remember telling you; encouraging me. I thank our Lord for you.)
3. RG (You have opened my eyes to so many things. In the past year my relationship with the Lord has grown in leaps and bounds and it's because you allowed the Holy Spirit to speak through you. I have been convicted, released, moved and challenged in so many ways. I am very thankful for your friendship. I trust you and tell you just about everything. You are incredible.)
Funniest Person of the Year -
1. Joe (I had to leave you in first! You are still the funniest person I know and I love when we go past being G rated! Lunch conversations are amazing!)
2. Jesse (You and Joe had to have been twins separated at birth! I love it when you come to the house and just hang. You are part of our family.)
3. Bethany (Oh my word. I can't have a conversation with you without laughing.)
4. Micah and Spank (Wow. You guys crack me up! It seems like the older you two get the funnier you get! I love you guys!)
5. Chad (Just thinking about you puts a smile on my face. Thanks for being my friend!)
Happiest Person of the Year -
1. Wren R. (I have never seen you as happy as you've been since Kendall's birth. It's so sweet. I'm praying for a baby boy by the way. :) Every family needs a boy!)
2. Bonnie (I don't think I've ever heard of you being unhappy. You are so joyful and I love your spirit.)
3. Kasey Wyms (You are so upbeat! I’ve never seen you down; it’s awesome.)
4. Jess G. (Girl, you have to be the happiest person I know. When we talk you are so excited about life and the future and it makes me excited. I’m sorry we didn’t get to hang out last week, but we will! Soon.)
Craziest Person of the Year -
1. Joe (haha. You are crazy!)
2. Jesse (you and Joe are just great. You're crazy. Insane. And I love being around you guys!)
3. David Allen (It won’t surprise me if you blow something up one day and come inside without hair or eye-brows! I’m going to laugh my head off too! Love.)
Most Loving Person of the Year -
1. Dad (I think you are the best dad ever. I love you.)
2. My Lord and Savior (Daily I am moved by your deep and unconditional love for me. I would be nothing without you. Keep me close. Be my only desire.)
3. Jess W. (Thank you for being there for Bethany. I hate that she can't be with the family, but it makes me feel so much better knowing that she has loving and supportive friends at TFC.)
Most Challenging Person of the Year -
1. Bethany (You make me so mad sometimes, but I don't know what I would do without you to make me dig deeper and truly get to the bottom of things I don't even want to deal with. I think you are wonderful.)
2. RG (I really don't know what to say. You probably don't even know it, but your friendship has been very challenging. You've made me mad a few times!)
3. Ms. Leah (I know that I can count on you to tell me like it is and not hold anything back... especially since we are so much alike and you just understand me!)
Most Beautiful (Female) of the Year -
1. Bethany (You are... inside and out. I still want to be like you in every way I can without changing "me" and that includes your outward and inward beauty.)
2. Bethany Mac (You are still the most beautiful woman I know!)
3. Sara (I know this may be a bit irritating, but I really hope it's not. I hadn't seen you in years and when I looked at your pictures and saw how much you'd grown up I was amazed. You are incredibly beautiful and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.)
4. Hannah R. (You are one of those girls that have an endless list of good qualities! You are lovely and not just on the outside.)
Most Drop-Dead Gorgeous (Male) of the Year -
1. Caleb, Joe, David, John Mark and Micah (I seriously have the most gorgeous brothers ever! Ya'll are just soo handsome!)
2. Jared Wagnac. (You are good looking!)
3. RG (All the ladies think so!)
4. Jonas Quinn (from Stargate SG1!! lol. My brothers watch that show all the time and I think he's pretty good looking!)
Most Talented Person of the Year -
1. David Allen (How in the world you can do all the things you can and do are awesome. I am proud of you. You're smart and I can't wait to see what the Lord has in store for you!)
2. Marianna (Girl, you know how to break it down! You can dance!)
3. Carrie (You are soo good on the guitar! It's been awesome to hear your gift. The Lord has blessed you.)
Most Mysterious Person of the Year -
1. The guy down the road who has a sweet truck, a very scary dog and a small house.
Best Personality of the Year -
1. Meg (I just love you. We need to get together sometime soon.)
2. Annie W. (You remind me of my mom. She loved life; never met a stranger; had a heart for not only her children, but kids in general; loved to encourage and pray for others. I see all of that and more in you. You are such a blessing.)
3. Micah (I love when we get sarcastic with each other; it’s like what it would be if I was talking to my twin or clone. I think we should get started on our talent for next year!)
Wonder Woman of the Year -
1.Carrie (I have worried about you with everything you've taken on this year, but you've handled it all with amazing strength. God has been your refuge and the fact that you lean on Him and trust him in all things has been so encouraging.)
Super Man of the Year -
1. Dad (You are still my hero. The way you took care of Mom during all of the years she was sick and then the way you've taken care of us kids - wow. I want to marry a man who is as dedicated to his family as you are.)
2. Jonathan Knight (I am so proud of you. You have worked long and hard to get where you are. Keep fighting the good fight.)
Most Inspiring Person of the Year -
1. Carrie (Your passion for the Lord and for other people has inspired me in more ways than you'll ever know. You've reminded me that I need to love people no matter who they are or what they've done. Thanks girl. I love you!)
2. Sara (I was so encouraged that there were young people interested in politics. It’s so important. I have a great amount of respect for you because of not only your interest, but your ability to discuss it without getting heated if someone disagrees with you. Keep at girl! I’m excited with you to see the great things Obama is going to do for our country.)
Most Helpful Person of the Year -
1. Ms. Susie and Ms. Mary Jane (I cannot tell you guy’s thank-you enough. The way you stepped in and pulled together a meal for the volleyball night was stunning. I was overwhelmed by your hard work and willingness to help me.)
2. Marianna (I think I would have pulled out my hair by now if you weren't here to help me! You do so much and I'm afraid a lot of it goes unnoticed. But I have seen and I appreciate and love you very, very much.
Most Encouraging Female of the Year -
1. Ms. Leah (Wow. You have been a major source of encouragement for me. I am so thankful for your wisdom and guidance. You have become my mother figure and I couldn't have asked for a better one. Thanks for always being available to talk and for praying for and with me.)
2. Bethany (I love you. I love that God saw fit to make us sisters. Goodness, He knew I'd need you! I can't wait for our trip to Europe! We're going to have soo much fun!)
3. Marianna (I love you too. We are so crazy together, but at the same time, I know I can count on you for anything. )
Most Encouraging Male of the Year -
1. James (Need I say more? I love my big brother!)
2. Joe (You’ve become one of my best friends! I love you so much. Thanks for listening to all of my craziness!)
3. RG (Thank you for encouraging me to pursue life beyond what I’m doing now. I needed it.)
Best “Old” or New Female Friend of the Year -
1. Annie (I can’t wait to visit again.)
2. Hannah R. (I am praying for you.)
3. Anna Kathleen (We need to talk more!)
4. Ginger (I love you. You are incredible. Thanks for being my friend and for praying for me.)
Best “Old” or New Male Friend of the Year -
1. Jared Wagnac (You are so sweet and when you give me a hug and ask how I’m doing it makes me smile. I’m glad we’re friends!)
2. John H. (My first big brother. I can remember growing up and wishing I had a big brother and even asking God why He hadn’t given Bethany and me one. And then He sent you! I miss you, but am very thankful for Facebook so I can keep up with you. I think and pray for you and Kim often.)
3. Jay Pope (You are such a dear friend. Praying for you.)
Best Dressed Female of the Year -
1. Candace (You are always so artsy in your style. It fits you perfectly and it’s simply adorable!)
2. Marianna (I love how you are not afraid to rock Hville with your style! Keep those hats coming!)
3. The Mac Girls (All three of you look like models! You are all just gorgeous.)
Best Movie of the Year -
1. The Boy in the Striped Pajamas (It was moving. I highly recommend it.)
2. Fireproof (If you haven’t seen this movie, go watch it!)
3. The Dark Knight (It was surprisingly good. Well, the parts I watched were… I covered my eyes for a good bit of the movie!!)
Best Music of the Year -
1. Jadon Lavik (Love his latest CD - Roots Run Deep)
2. Anything with Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., or Nat King Cole (I love all of them!)
Best Books (I've read!) of the Year -
1. 9 Marks of a Healthy Church by Mark Dever (It was enlightening).
2. The Love Dare (I’ve only read a few pages, but it was incredible.)
3. Wounded by Claudia Mair Burney (I love her books, but this one was almost hard to read. When I read, I get into the character and feeling her pain was real; it broke my heart. But I loved it.)
Best Music Videos of the Year -
1. Jonas Brothers Love Bug (Super cute!)
Thus ends the 2008 Lydia's Choice Awards!
**These "Awards" are to make you laugh, cry, wonder, and hopefully laugh some more. I hope they weren't taken in the wrong way at all. I didn't mean for them to hurt anyone. Please let me know if that occurred and I will do my best to fix it.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
How The Bailout Works
I received this in a email. I am very much so against the bailout plan so I thought it was pretty funny and worth sharing.
Once upon a time a man appeared in a village announced to the villagers that he would buy monkeys for $10 each.
The villagers, seeing that there were many monkeys around, went out to the forest and started catching them. The man bought thousands at $10 and, as supply started to diminish, the villagers stopped their effort. He next announced that he would now buy monkeys at $20 each.
This renewed the efforts of the villagers and they started catching monkeys again.
Soon the supply diminished even further and people started going back to their farms. The offer increased to $25 each and the supply of monkeys became so scarce it was an effort to even find a monkey, let alone catch it!
The man now announced that he would buy monkeys at $50 each! However, since he had to go to the city on some business, h is assistant would buy on his behalf. In the absence of the man, the assistant told the Villagers: "Look at all these monkeys in the big cage that the man has already collected I will sell them to you at $35 and when the man the returns from the city, you can sell them to him for $50 each."
The villagers rounded up all their savings and bought all the monkeys for 700 billion dollars.
They never saw the man or his assistant again, only lots and lots of monkeys!
Now you have a better understanding of how the WALL STREET BAILOUT PLAN WILL WORK !!!!
Once upon a time a man appeared in a village announced to the villagers that he would buy monkeys for $10 each.
The villagers, seeing that there were many monkeys around, went out to the forest and started catching them. The man bought thousands at $10 and, as supply started to diminish, the villagers stopped their effort. He next announced that he would now buy monkeys at $20 each.
This renewed the efforts of the villagers and they started catching monkeys again.
Soon the supply diminished even further and people started going back to their farms. The offer increased to $25 each and the supply of monkeys became so scarce it was an effort to even find a monkey, let alone catch it!
The man now announced that he would buy monkeys at $50 each! However, since he had to go to the city on some business, h is assistant would buy on his behalf. In the absence of the man, the assistant told the Villagers: "Look at all these monkeys in the big cage that the man has already collected I will sell them to you at $35 and when the man the returns from the city, you can sell them to him for $50 each."
The villagers rounded up all their savings and bought all the monkeys for 700 billion dollars.
They never saw the man or his assistant again, only lots and lots of monkeys!
Now you have a better understanding of how the WALL STREET BAILOUT PLAN WILL WORK !!!!
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