Some of my favorites

For some reason tonight I was thinking about "Favorites". Here are a few of mine:

Colors: Orange and Purple (not together)

Foods: Probably Mashed potatoes as a general food but I have favorites in each "style" of food.

Phrases: Whatev, Seriously?, Oh my

iPhone apps: Hmm, Word Warp or Words with Friends

Seasons: Fall/Winter

Thing about my Macbook: So far, Photo booth :)

That's all for now...

Until next time-

Les

2010

I am excited about 2010...for several reasons. Some of which I can share now and some of which will have to wait for a time.

Here are some of the goals I've set for 2010:

1. Learn a new craft (I'm thinking cake decorating)

2. Travel to two new places (Main one on my list is New York City right now)

3. Simplify my life (This is occurring in several areas, I'll share at some point)

4. Take better care of my temple. (This will be the most challenging and the Lord is still teaching me how to do this but I'm looking forward to it)

5. Grow, Mature, Be strengthened (Spiritually, mentally, emotionally)

Until next time-

Les

An exciting Adventure!

Well, I have exciting news to share. Very soon I will have a recent law school graduate from South Korea come stay with me until March 10th. Through friends, I found out that S.P. (I won't tell her name until I ask her permission) will be coming to Alabama to take the Bar exam at the end of February. She has been unable to find a place to stay and my friends asked me to pray about it and see if I would be willing. I knew immediately it would be excellent. I am very excited about this and I am looking forward to seeing how God will use her to minister to me and vice versa.

Until next time-

Les

Challenge

My accountability partner, Rachel, texted me this morning to tell me about a challenge that Perry Noble gave his church. She's going to do it and encouraged me to do it as well. I am!

Perry was talking about the verse that says "Be still and know that I am God" and he said to try every day on your commute to work to turn off your radio and phone and just say to the Lord "Lord, if you have anything to say to me, I'm listening"

Pretty excited about it!

Until next time-

Les

P.S. Rachel's encouraging scripture of the day was Habakkuk 3:18-19: "yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation. The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights."....Pretty blessed to know her!

Christmas!

I love Christmas. I love the smells. I love decorating. I love Christmas cards. I love giving. I love celebrating. I love remembering. I love it all. This year in particular I just keep going back to two things.

1. Soldiers who are away from home, away from their families, away from safety, all to protect us, me. Soldiers who are wounded and cannot return home or whose families may have even rejected them because of their injuries. Wow...such sacrifice.

2. Those families who have lost loved ones this year especially within the last month or so. I have lost plenty of loved ones so I know that it is tough around the holidays. Right now, I just ache for those whose family members have passed away. I can't explain it. I've never felt this way before but I know that I'll be lifting up those people a lot over the next two weeks especially.

Thank you, Jesus, for turning my attention to these people at this special time of year. Thank you for blessing me tremendously and allowing me to prosper just because of your goodness. Grateful to you.

Until next time-

Les

A feel good moment

Today, I was at work and was with one of my residents and one of the guys that works in our building walked by. He walked slowly and kept looking up at us and then down at his clipboard. I eventually motioned for him to come in the room and he did. I said "What are you doing?". He responded "I'm writing you up" "Why?" I asked. "I'm just teasing you", he said, "You are such a good person. It's just fun to joke with you. Not many like you." At that time, my resident who I really didn't think was paying attention at all, looked up at me and very sincerely said "I think so too". "You think I'm a good person too?" I asked. "Yeah! Yeah!", he responded. I had to hold back the tears. Those are the moments that make my job so worth it!

Thank you Jesus for a great job and for incredibly sweet and rewarding moments like this one. You are TOO good to me!

Until next time-

Les

Lately....

Well, it's been a while...life has been crazy busy. What's new? :)

Mom and my cousin Bonnie came to visit this past weekend and we had a blast. Here are some of the pictures we took at Shakespeare...we had fun!

On the road to Charleston on Thursday! Can't wait!

Until next time-

Les

Louisiana Facts

This makes me laugh!

THINGS I LEARNED LIVIN' IN LOUISIANA

1) A possum is a flat animal that sleeps in the middle of the road.
2) There are 5,000 types of snakes and 4,998 of them live in Louisiana
3) There are 10,000 types of spiders, and all 10,000 of them live in Louisiana
4) If it grows, it'll stick ya. If it crawls, it'll bite cha.
5) "Onced" and "Twiced" are words.
6) It is not a shopping cart, it's a buggy.
7) "Jawl-P?" means, "Did y'all go to the bathroom?"
8) People actually grow and eat okra.
9) "Fixinto" is one word.
10) There is no such thing as lunch. There is only dinner and then there is supper...
11) Iced tea is appropriate for all meals, and you start drinking it when you're two. We do like a little tea with our sugar.
12) Backwards and forwards means, "I know everythin' 'bout you.
13) The word "jeet" is actually a phrase meaning, "Did you eat?"
14) You don't have to wear a watch, because it doesn't matter what time it is. You work until you're done or it's too dark to see...
15) You don't PUSH buttons, you MASH 'em.
16) You measure distance in minutes.
17) You switch from heat to A/C in the same day.
18) All the festivals across the state are named after a fruit, vegetable, grain, insect, or animal.
19) You know what a "Dawg" is.
20) You carry jumper cables in your car - for your own car.
21) You only own five spices: salt, pepper, Tony Chachere's, Tabasco,and ketchup.
22) The local papers cover national and international news on one page, but require 6 pages for local gossip and LSU football...
23) You think that the first day of deer season is a national holiday.
24) You find 100 degrees "a bit warm."
25) You know all four seasons: Almost summer, summer,still summer, and Christmas.
26) Going to Walmart is a favorite past time known as"Goin' Walmartin" or "off to Wally World." 27) You describe the first cool snap (below 70 degrees)as good gumbo weather.
28) Fried catfish is the other white meat.
29) We don't need no dang Driver's Ed. . . if our mama says we can drive, we can drive.


Until next time-
Les

If you get caught sleeping

FIVE BEST THINGS TO SAY IF YOU GET CAUGHT SLEEPING AT YOUR DESK:

NUMBER 5: They told me at the Blood Bank this might happen.

NUMBER 4 : 'This is just a 15 minute power nap like they raved about in the time-management course you sent me to.

NUMBER 3 : 'Whew! Guess I left the top off the White-out. You probably got here just in time!

NUMBER 2: Did you ever notice sound coming out of these keyboards when you put your ear down real close?

Number 1 And MY all time Favorite: best thing to say if you get caught sleeping at your desk: (Raising your head slowly) '... in Jesus' name, Amen

Until next time-
Les

Just Funny

1. The roundest knight at King Arthur's round table was Sir Circumference. He acquired his size from too much pi.
2. I thought I saw an eye doctor on an Alaskan island, but it turned out to be an optical Aleutian.
3. She was only a whiskey maker, but he loved her still.
4. A rubber band pistol was confiscated from algebra class because it was a weapon of math disruption.
5. The butcher backed into the meat grinder and got a little behind in his work.
6. No matter how much you push the envelope, it'll still be stationery.
7. A dog gave birth to puppies near the road and was cited for littering.
8. A grenade thrown into a kitchen in France would result in Linoleum Blownapart.
9. Two silk worms had a race. They ended up in a tie.
10. Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana.
11. A hole has been found in the nudist camp wall. The police are looking into it.
12. Atheism is a non-prophet organization.
13. Two hats were hanging on a hat rack in the hallway. One hat said to the other, 'You stay here, I'll go on a head.'
14. I wondered why the baseball kept getting bigger. Then it hit me.
15. A sign on the lawn at a drug rehab center said: 'Keep off the Grass.'
16. A small boy swallowed some coins and was taken to a hospital. When his grandmother telephoned to ask how he was, a nurse said, 'No change yet.'
17. A chicken crossing the road is poultry in motion.
18. The short fortune-teller who escaped from prison was a small medium at large.
19. The man who survived mustard gas and pepper spray is now a seasoned veteran.
20. A backward poet writes inverse.
21. In democracy it's your vote that counts. In feudalism it's your count that votes.

Until next time-
Les

Boudreaux's Lent

TRUE LENT

Each Friday night after work, Boudreaux would fire up his outdoor grill and cook a venison steak. But, all of Boudreaux's neighbors were Catholic... and since it was Lent, they were forbidden from eating meat on Friday.The delicious aroma from the grilled venison steaks was causing such a problem for the Catholic faithful that they finally talked to their Priest.

The Priest came to visit Boudreaux, and suggested that he become a Catholic. After several classes and much study, Boudreaux attended Mass, and as the priest sprinkled holy water over him, he said, "You were born a Baptist, and raised a Baptist, but now you are a Catholic."

Boudreaux's neighbors were greatly relieved, until Friday night arrived, and the wonderful aroma of grilled venison filled theneighborhood.The Priest was called immediately by the neighbors, and, as he rushed into Boudreaux's yard, clutching a rosary and prepared to scold him, he stopped and watched in amazement. There stood Boudreaux, clutching a small bottle of holy water which he carefully sprinkled over the grilling meat and chanted:"You wuz born a deer, you wuz raised a deer, but now you is a catfish."

Until Next time-
Les

Louisiana wife

Louisiana Wife The first man married a woman from OHIO . He told her that she was to do the dishes and house cleaning. It took a couple of days, but on the third day, he came home to see a clean house and dishes washed and put away.
The second man married a woman from MICHIGAN . He gave his wife orders that she was to do all the cleaning, dishes and the cooking. The first day he didn't see any results, but the next day he saw it was better. By the third day, he saw his house was clean, the dishes were done and there was a huge dinner on the table.
The third man married a girl from LOUISIANA. He ordered her to keep the house clean, the dishes washed, the lawn mowed, the laundry washed, and hot meals on the table for every meal. He said the first day he didn't see anything, the second day he didn't see anything but by the third day, some of the swelling had gone down and he could see a little out of his left eye, and his arm was healed enough that he could fix himself a sandwich and load the dishwasher.

Until next time-
Les

Christian One Liners

Christian One Liners

Don't let your worries get the best of you;
Remember, Moses started out as a basket case.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Some people are kind, polite, and sweet-spirited
Until you try to sit in their pews.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Many folks want to serve God,
But only as advisers.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
It is easier to preach ten sermons
Than it is to live one.
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The good Lord didn't create anything without a purpose,
But mosquitoes come close.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
When you get to your wit's end,
You'll find God lives there.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
People are funny; they want the front of the bus,
Middle of the road,
And back of the church.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Opportunity may knock once,
But temptation bangs on the front door forever.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Quit griping about your church;
If it was perfect, you couldn't belong.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
If a church wants a better pastor,
It only needs to pray for the one it has.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
We're called to be witnesses, not lawyers or Judges.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
God Himself doesn't propose to judge a man until
he is dead. So why should you?
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Some minds are like concrete
Thoroughly mixed up and permanently set.
Peace starts with a smile.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
I don't know why some people change churches;
What difference does it make which one you stay home from?
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
A lot of church members singing 'Standing on the Promises'
Are just sitting on the premises.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Be ye fishers of men. You catch 'em - He'll clean 'em.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Stop, Drop, and Roll won't work in Hell.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Coincidence is when God chooses to remain anonymous.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Don't put a question mark where God put a period.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Don't wait for 6 strong men to take you to church.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Forbidden fruits create many jams.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
God doesn't call the qualified,
He qualifies the called.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
God grades on the cross, not the curve.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
God loves everyone,
But probably prefers 'fruits of the spirit' over 'religiousnuts!'
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
God promises a safe landing, not a calm passage.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
He who angers you, controls you!
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
If God is your Co-pilot, swap seats!
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Prayer: Don't give God instructions, just report for duty!
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
The task ahead of us is never as
great as the Power behind us.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
The Will of God never takes you to where the
Grace of God will not protect you.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
We don't change the message,
The message changes us.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
You can tell how big a person is
By what it takes to discourage him.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
The best mathematical equation I have ever seen:
1 cross + 3 nails = 4 given.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*

Until next time-
Les

Ol' Boudreaux

DA END BE NEAR!!

Reverend Boudreaux was the part-time pastor of the local Cajun Baptist Church and Pastor Thibodaux was the minister of the Covenant Church
across the road. Theywere both standing by the road, pounding a sign into the ground, that read: 'Da End is Near> Turn Yo Sef 'Roun Now, Afore It Be Too Late!'
As a car sped past them, the driver leaned out his window and yelled, 'You religious nuts!'
From the curve they heard screeching tires, and a big splash... Boudreaux turns to Thibodaux and asks, 'Do ya tink maybe da sign should jussay.....'Bridge is out?'

Until next time-
Les

No Pun in Ten Did

It is said that the ability to make and understand PUNS is the highest level of language development. Here are the top 10 winners in the International Pun Contest.

1. A vulture boards an airplane, carrying two dead raccoons. The Stewardess looks at him and says, ‘I’m sorry, sir, only one carrion allowed per passenger.

2. Two fish swim into a concrete wall. The one turns to the other and says, ‘Dam!’

3. Two Eskimos sitting in a kayak were chilly, so they lit a fire in the craft. Unsurprisingly, it sank, proving once again that you can’t have your kayak and heat it, too.

4. Two hydrogen atoms meet. One says, ‘I’ve lost my electron.’ The other says, ‘Are you sure?’ The first replies, ‘Yes, I’m positive.’

5. Did you hear about the Buddhist who refused Novocain during a root canal? His goal: transcend dental medication.

6. A group of chess enthusiasts checked into a hotel and were standing in the lobby discussing their recent tournament victories. After about an hour, the manager came out of the office and asked them to disperse. But why they asked, as they moved off. ‘Because,’ he said, ‘I can’t stand chess-nuts boasting in an open foyer.’

7. A woman has twins and gives them up for adoption. One of them goes to a family in Egypt and is named Ahmal. The other goes to a family in Spain; they name him Juan. Years later, Juan sends a picture of himself to his birth mother. Upon receiving the picture, she tells her husband that she wishes she also had a picture of Ahmal. Her husband responds, ‘They’re twins! If you’ve seen Juan, you’ve seen Ahmal.’

8. A group of friars were behind on their belfry payments, so they opened a small florist shop to raise funds. Since everyone liked to buy flowers from the men of God, a rival florist across town thought the competition was unfair. He asked the good fathers to close down, but they would not. He went back and begged the friars to close. They ignored him. So, the rival florist hired Hugh MacTaggart, the roughest and most vicious thug in town to ‘persuade’ them to close. Hugh beat up the friars and trashed their store, saying he’d be back if they didn’t close up shop. Terrified, they did so, thereby proving that only Hugh can prevent florist friars.

9. Mahatma Gandhi, as you know, walked barefoot most of the time, which produced an impressive set of calluses on his feet. He also ate very little, which made him rather frail and, with his odd diet, he suffered from bad breath. This made him (Oh, man, this is SO BAD, it’s good) a super calloused fragile mystic hexed by halitosis.

10. And, finally, there was the person who posted ten different puns, with the hope that at least one of the puns would make his readers laugh. No pun in ten did.

Until next time-
Les

The Redhead

I decided that I wanted to just share some funny things that I had received through e-mail or elsewhere....They will be separated into several posts. Hope you enjoy. If not, just skip them :)


A man was dining in a fancy restaurant and there was a gorgeous redhead sitting at the next table. He had been checking her out since he sat down, but lacked the nerve to speak to her. Suddenly she sneezed, and her glass eye came flying out of its socket toward the man. He reflexively reached out, grabbed it out of the air, and handed it back. 'Oh my, I am so sorry,' the woman said as she popped her eye back in place... 'Let me buy your dinner to make it up to you,' she said. They enjoyed a wonderful dinner together, and afterward went to the theatre and later had drinks. They talked, they laughed, she shared her deepest dreams and he shared his.. She listened. They had a wonderful, wonderful time. The guy was amazed. Everything had been SO incredible! ' You know,' he said, 'you are the perfect woman. Do you treat every guy you meet this way?' 'No,' she replied. . . 'You just happened to catch my eye.'

Until next time-
Les

Thankful

My accountability partner encouraged me to write down something I am thankful each day. It has been so eye opening to recognize just how much good, great, grand and excellent "stuff" the Lord has blessed me with. Thanks to Rachel for the idea!

Until next time-
Les

Week's Review and some video links :)

Hello All! This week has been CRAZY BUSY! but at the same time...so good!

Monday, I was pumped about the Thai Dance Group that was coming to our church so I was hurrying to leave work to get there. My co-worker who left just before me called and said "Leslie, one of your tires is flat" "Woohoo" was my response (insert sarcasm). It took a great deal of effort to get it taken care of and the funny thing is that I had complete joy throughout the whole process after the initial shock wore off. The Lord took care of me and I made it home in time to change clothes and put on perfume (:)) before heading to the church. The performance was amazing and I loved every minute of it.

Tuesday was a relatively busy day as well at work and then I had small group in Auburn which as always, rocked my world. We had a super large crowd and the Lord totally showed up and met us there. He is so stinkin' amazing!

Wednesday I worked and then spent some incredible time with Laura (I've already blogged about that so I won't go into it again)

Thursday, I worked, went to the dentist to have my teeth cleaned (one of my favorite things to do, seriously), and then went to the Airman Leadership School graduation at Maxwell Airforce Base for my friend, Rebecca. I was super tired but it was such a blessing to be there for her to support and honor her accomplishments. I learned some things about the Airforce and laughed a lot.

Friday, that's today, I worked, came home and took an AWESOME nap, worked for a little while at the fall festival at church and then did a little shopping. I've been in need of blue jeans for a while now and I just never can find what I want or what fits. I was determined. I walked out of Old Navy with two new pairs and I think they look great. That almost never happens!

Today makes two full days that I've gone without texting. It's crazy. I went through withdrawals for a little bit earlier but I think I'm okay now. Since getting home from shopping, I have been cleaning, paying bills and balancing the check book. I feel so productive. Go Me and Go Jesus for sustaining me!

Here are the links to a couple of videos that I have watched recently and really enjoyed. I haven't learned yet how to put the whole video in my post so you'll have to click on them.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRBIVRwvUeE Middle Age Tech Support

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EYAUazLI9k Sound of Music-Train Station

http://www.responsibilityproject.com/films/player/the-home-run Home run film...I cried!

Until next time-
Les

P.S. Give me the links to your favorite video(s) right now. I love me some youtube!

Nearing the end....no text messaging

The 61 day challenge is almost over. Crazy to think that 2 months have passed. I have learned a lot and the Lord is still teaching me so much. For the last three days I feel like the Lord has led me to fast from something that I really did not want to fast from. Oh wait, that's usually the way it works, isn't it? Beginning Thursday at 12:00 a.m. until 11:59 p.m. (really whatever time I send/receive my first text on Sunday), I will not be text messaging. In the last month, I have sent and received nearly 7000 text messages. Oh my! So I'm taking a break for a bit. As of this moment, I haven't sent a text message in nearly 24 hours. Yay, Jesus!

Until next time-
Les

P.S. Have lots of things to blog about....ALS graduation, a sweet thing one of my patient's said to me, my trip...I think that's it for now. I'll get on those things...soon :)

Awesome friend and Molten Chocolate Cake

Tonight Laura and I got to spend some time together. We went to eat dinner at Panera and we had dessert at Chili's. The fellowship was amazing and refreshing to my soul and the cake...well, I think the pictures speak for themselves!

Until next time-

Les

Mercy Me!!!!

For my birthday, my friend Matt got me a ticket to the Mercy Me concert. It was tonight and we had a blast!

This is my precious friend, Keisha, and me. We were lookin' smokin' hot tonight :) (insert sarcasm here, please)

Mercy Me has been one of my favorite groups for a long time and getting to see them in concert just never gets old to me. I had a super amazing time and came away challenged about a few things in my life. Maybe I'll blog about that another day.

Until next time-
Les

A secret

I discovered something today. If you want everyone you see to comment on how nice you look, how "cute" your hair is, how good your eyes look with the new makeup you are wearing...just don't do anything with yourself the day before. Go to work (or where-ever) with your hair pulled up in the ponytail, very little make-up, no jewelry on Day 1 and on day 2, do the exact opposite...It works, trust me!

Until next time-
Les

Influential People

Today, I was just thinking about people in my life...my parents, my friends, pastors, patients...so many people have helped me along my life journey. One person in particular comes to mind tonight....

Pam Stevens...

She is one Godly woman who has spoken so much truth into my life, given me so much hope, helped to show me the way in some of life's craziest situations. She is the mother of four children and wife to my former youth pastor. She became a mentor of mine sometime during college. I have spent so many nights at their house, sitting on their couch or at their dining room table playing games or just talking. I have always laughed because Mrs. Pam and I would end our conversation at the door and then she would follow me out and we would talk for another hour before I got in the car to go home.

She has taught me about prayer, guarding my heart as a Godly woman, pursuing the Lord through His word. I have learned so much from her just by watching her live her life. She is a true picture of what it means to submit to the Lord, your husband, and those in authority. She is humble, genuine and selfless. Really, when I think about it, it's insane how much the Lord has done in her life and how much He has used her. Then I'm reminded that when we are faithful in the little that the Lord trusts us with the big. Pam Stevens has been faithful in the little and the Lord has continued to give her more and more.

One thing that I truly love about her is the joy and excitement that she demonstrates when the Lord has shown her something. She is always happy and smiling but when she has had a revelation or the Lord has done a miracle in her life or the life of someone around her, it is ALL OVER HER FACE! It's almost as if she were floating. I love it!

So, Mrs. Pam if you are reading this....you have influenced me in such a huge way and I am FOREVER grateful to you!

Until next time-
Les

God ordained

So thankful for those God ordained moments in life. I know they happen so frequently but I so rarely recgonize them. Tonight I ended up in Auburn at the Church of the Highlands campus there. After that I was able to spend some q-time with a great friend. It was completely God-ordained and absolutely what I needed. Helped me to find focus on a few areas of my life and just get called out about a few things. The Lord is completely amazing and constantly faithful even when we decide we aren't going to be!

Until next time-
Les

Accountability!

This precious woman in the picture with me is one of the most amazing, wonderful, Godly people I have ever met. I mean, really when I think about it, it's almost ridiculous how sweet she is. I know that I exaggerate sometimes so most of you are thinking "Well, she must be kind of sweet". But I am SERIOUS! This girl rocks!

Rachel Milton and I met last summer during the very first Young Professionals small group at Church of the Highlands. I remember introducing myself to her and her just saying "Hey" and almost acting disinterested in speaking to me. Later on, I was talking to two other friends and asking if they knew who she was and they said they did and that she was awesome but just a bit shy at first.

So the next week, we talked again and then before long, large groups of us were hanging out together and Rachel was there in the midst. We became fast friends and I just admired her for her sweet spirit, ability to listen to what I had to say, and her love for ice cream. We talked often while I lived in Birmingham and then once I got down to Montgomery, it just kind of slacked off. Not intentionally at all, just kind of happened. We would text or call once a month or so.

In August, she came down to Montgomery with our friend, Brian, to celebrate my birthday and that was the first time I had seen her in months. It was such a treat. Then from my birthday until about 2 weeks ago we didn't talk at all. Again, not on purpose, just kind of how it happened.

About 2 weeks ago, she sent me a text just checking on me and we chatted for a bit. Not long after that she sent another text asking if I had an accountability partner. I told her that I didn't but that I had been praying intermittently for God to provide one. She said she had also been wanting to have an accountability partner. We decided we would pray for each other to find accountability. Later that night I thought to myself "I wonder if Rachel was hinting that she wanted to be my accountability partner?". I texted her back and she said that she wasn't hinting at that but she would love that. We both got excited about the possibility and made some plans about when and how to begin this "journey".

We "officially", if there is such a thing, started on Monday night and we have already had two 1-hour phone calls and several text messaging conversations that were extremely encouraging, life giving, challenging and just plain awesome. I am so pumped that the Lord saw fit to renew our friendship, that He decided we would make excellent accountability partners and made it happen for us. It's perfect timing but if you know anything about the Lord you already knew that was the case, because that's how He rolls :)

The Lord is great and greatly to be praised!

Until next time-
Les

Today!

Wow, I had the craziest week last week. Just be glad that I didn't write last Tuesday because you would all be depressed because I was having a hard time finding the bright side to anything!
My favorite patient died, it was three years since my grandmother passed away, another sweet patient died, one of my friend's dad's had some serious health stuff going on, my dad called with some news about my stepmom's dad being sick and on and on and on! Thankfully, the Lord is Jehovah-Jireh, my provider and he provided me with sweet fellowship and a reminder that He is all I need. He also reminded me that the happiness of my day should not be based off of my circumstances but should be based on the Lord's constant, perfect, and amazing goodness to me!

From Tuesday the week got better. I finished my clinical fellowship which means I will officially be licensed by the state and nation pretty soon. I got to spend some time with some friends this past weekend. I went to some garage sales and got some good deals. I bought a new purple winter coat that was regularly $200 for $71 and I got a fun new haircut that I totally love! I'll post pictures very very soon!

Last night, the Lord reminded me of how much He has done for me and just gave me some perspective into my life. I am grateful for it!

Tonight, I came home and made myself some pretty good dinner (I am biased). I talked to a couple of super amazing people (you know who you are) and I am just enjoying some time at home.

The Lord is great and greatly to be praised. I will call upon the Lord. I lift my eyes unto the Hills, it's where my help comes from. Nothing is impossible with God. I am nothing without Christ.

I also decided that rather than going home for Thanksgiving (my mom is coming here the week before and I'll be going home for Christmas) I am going to take a road trip to Savannah, GA and Charleston, SC and all places in between. Pretty excited to be hitting the two places I wanted to travel this year in the same trip! I can't wait. If you have any suggestions on places to stay, places to eat and things to do, let me know!!!

Until next time-
Les

Just something silly..

QUESTIONS THAT HAUNT PEOPLE!

Can you cry under water?

How important does a person have to be before they are considered assassinated instead of just murdered?

Why do you have to 'put your two cents in'... but it's only a 'penny for your thoughts'? Where's that extra penny going to?

Once you're in heaven, do you get stuck wearing the clothes you were buried in for eternity?

Why does a round pizza come in a square box?

What disease did cured ham actually have?

How is it that we put man on the moon before we figured out it would be a good idea to put wheels on luggage?

Why is it that people say they 'slept like a baby' when babies wake up like every two hours?

If a deaf person has to go to court, is it still called a hearing?

Why are you IN a movie, but you're ON TV?

Why do people pay to go up tall buildings and then put money in binoculars to look at things on the ground?

Why do doctors leave the room while you change? They're going to see you naked anyway.

Why do toasters always have a setting that burns the toast to a horrible crisp, which no decent human being would eat?

If Jimmy cracks corn and no one cares, why is there a stupid song about him?

Can a hearse carrying a corpse drive in the carpool lane ?

If the professor on Gilligan's Island can make a radio out of a coconut, why can't he fix a hole in a boat?

Why does Goofy stand erect while Pluto remains on all fours? They're both dogs!

If Wile E. Coyote had enough money to buy all that ACME junk, why didn't he just buy dinner?

If corn oil is made from corn, and vegetable oil is made from vegetables, what is baby oil made from?

If electricity comes from electrons, does morality come from morons?

Do the Alphabet song and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star have the same tune?

Why did you just try singing the two songs above?

Did you ever notice that when you blow in a dog's face, he gets mad at you, but when you take him for a car ride, he sticks his head out the window?

Until next time-
Les

Hope

This morning I woke up (tired) and defeated. I felt like I hadn't really accomplished much this week and that I hadn't really drawn closer to the Lord like He (and I both) desire(s). I was just not pumped about the day. At about 7:15 a.m. I received a text from a friend that said as he was praying for me (could have been multiple people he sent the message to, I don't know), Romans 5:1-6 kept coming to mind especially verses 5 which says, "And hope does not disappoint us because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit whom he has given us." No wonder I was feeling so defeated, I wasn't even trying to let the Holy Spirit guide me. I was just exhausted and trying to work things out for myself. STUPID. STUPID. STUPID. One more time, STUPID. Haven't I learned this lesson before? I mean, seriously. (Thank you, Lord, for being so gentle).
When I got home from work, I was reading my daily lesson in "Fasting from Wrong thinking" and the whole lesson was about hope and of course, Romans 5:5 was one of the key verses because that's just how Jesus rolls.
One of the other daily studies that I am doing is going through various names of Jesus and this week's name is "The Light of the World". Learned today that I am not to just rest in Christ's light but I am to become one of His light bearers...Hmm...that's good stuff. For real, Jesus, you rock my socks!

Until next time-
Les

View from the front row

Up close and personal

The view behind us..The majority of the LSU fans were in that top deck.

We looked so "hot"....haha...NOT! We were soaked at this point!

Right at the end

The huge jumbotron screen...it was ridiculous!

Such a blast!

Until next time-
Les

P.S. Random fact: This was my 5th SEC campus to visit

1. LSU

2. Alabama

3. Vanderbilt

4. Auburn

5. Mississippi State

LSU vs MSU

Today I headed to Starkville, MS with my friend, Abby, to watch LSU play MSU. This is the pre-game picture before we got out of the car into the rain.

It started pouring on our way to the game. We thought we were prepared but as you can see, my poncho was useless. Apparently, water leaked through the zipper and by the time we stopped, I was soaked!

But we still looked pretty and all that mattered was that we were about to sit on the very first row in the stadium to scream "Geaux Tigers".

After walking around in the muddy grass for an extremely long time and constantly getting stuck in the mud, I just decided to ditch the shoes. Here's the result of that. It was kind of fun. Just praying I don't get an infection!

The girls after the game...Abby, Les, Brittany, Kristy...We had such a blast!

Until next time-
Les

Immanuel

Immanuel-God with us.

God promises us that he is always with us.
Psalm 139:7-12
"Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand with hold me fast. If I say "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you"

Praise you Lord that you are always with me. Thank you for consistently pursing me. Forgive me where I have sinned and continue to sin against you. I pray that you would increase my confidence in Your desire to be with me. I am grateful that you long for a deeper relationship with me. You are truly incredible and my soul thirsts for you. Thank you that you are Immanuel-God with us.

Neat prayer "St. Patrick's Breastplate":
Christ be beside me, Christ be before me, Christ be behind me, King of my heart; Christ be within me, Christ be below me, Christ be above me, never to part. Christ on my right hand, Christ on my left hand, Christ all around me, shield in the strife; Christ in my sleeping, Christ is my sitting, Christ in my rising, light of my life. Christ be beside me, Christ be before me, Christ be behind me, King of my heart; Christ be within me, Christ be below me, Christ be above me, never to part.

Until next time-
Les

A washing machine, jaw locking pliers...not a moment too soon

Today was the big day for the washing machine delivery...well, washing machine pick up from Home Depot by my super awesome friend, John Michael (Montgomery) Walker. Here is a picture of this amazingly beautiful (and expensive) piece of machinery!

Here's how I feel about this new purchase and how I feel about being able to wash clothes any time I want to.

Also, I purchased my first pair of jaw locking pliers today in order to tighten the hoses attaching the washing machine to the wall. I am pretty sure every 25 year old woman needs to own a pair of these. It's so exciting...and I'm being so sarcastic.

And yes, this purchase came just in time because I was about to have to start re-wearing clothes :)

Until next time-

Les

Discipleship and A washing machine

Thursday night I went to a ladies' gathering for church. It was refreshing, renewing, and eye opening! Several women shared testimonies of when God took care of them when it seemed that the bottom had fallen out. I was extremely encouraged by each story. One thing the Lord reminded me of during the night was that I really need and want and desire to be discipled. I know that discipleship is important but since moving from home nearly 3 years ago, I have not had a mentor that I met with on a regular basis. I have longed for that discipleship relationship for a very long time but it just hasn't been developed. So after this reminder, I'm praying hard. Praying for a mentor relationship. A relationship with an amazing Godly woman who can pour into me because she's been poured into. Someone who can help me to become a Proverbs 31 woman. Someone who can help me to draw nearer to the Lord in a new way. Someone who has been there, done that, and gotten the T-shirt. I long for that relationship. Lord, hear my cry.

On a lighter note, I made a very big purchase today. I feel like it is my first "big girl" purchase. Praise the Lord that it wasn't a car! It was a washing machine! Since moving here, I have not had a working washing machine and dryer. The washing machine was working for a short time but then the spin cycle quit or something ridiculous. The dryer has always worked but the cord had to be changed. I've had the cord for 6 months but I just haven't changed it. Last night, I decided I was going to attempt to change it and made it most of the way through and got tripped up right at the end. Thankfully, I have some capable friends who are going to help me finish the job. :).
I woke up early this morning and headed to Home Depot to make the big purchase. I had done a little research this past week so I kind of knew what I was looking for. When I got there, I saw the one I had researched but then I saw that they had a better one on sale for a less expensive price than the one I had looked at. I searched for an associate for a while and finally found one. Just as I was asking my questions, his little (annoying) walkie-talkie thing started talking. The lady on the other end said "I'm sending someone your way about an ice machine". Instead of telling the new customer to hold for just a few minutes, he looked at me and said "I'll be right back". I was thrilled about that (insert sarcasm). I wanted to leave right then but then I remembered what the Lord has been trying to teach me about pride and being offended so I waited, and waited, and waited and waited. And then precious sweet Home Depot worker came back. He had no idea how to answer my questions. I was attempting to grant grace since it was early in the morning but I was struggling. He made some calls and finally "they" said I could have the discount even though they had no idea why they were giving it to me. Whatev :). I attempted to befriend Mr. Home Depot man during the transaction that took a while and it turns out that he is pretty nice. I don't think he realized that I was flustered at first. Thank God! An hour or so later, I walked out of Home Depot with....A RECEIPT! Going to pick up the washing machine later this week.

Until next time-
Les

Continually Amazed

The Lord has been teaching me a great deal about pride, the reasons for my sufferings and trials, and his power in my life.

Pride is such an awful thing. My goodness, it is at the root of SOOOO much stuff. This week at my friend Adam's small group, we learned about offense. The Lord really showed me through the teaching that pride is totally at the root of offense. We raise ourselves up to a place that we should not and then we get offended because people "Don't know who they are messing with". I mean, seriously, it's so ridiculous. If we constantly remind ourselves that we are nothing without Christ, offense would not come nearly as easily. John Bevere said Offense leads to betrayal and to the putting up of walls or strongholds. This morning as I was driving to work, I was thinking about those walls. If we get offended and throw up walls around our lives, it is nearly impossible to get to God. We have got to humble ourselves and stop getting offended and let the Lord move in our lives. How else is the world ever going to see a difference in us?!?!

About sufferings: 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 says "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows"....There are sufferings that I went through nearly 9 months ago that the Lord gave me comfort in and just now I am having the opportunity to share that comfort with someone who is going through the same sufferings. I'm so pumped because it's giving me a sense of renewed purpose for this season of my life. God is always right on time.

As for power, the Lord reminded me that the enemy can only have as much power in my life as I allow him to have because my life was bought with a price and Christ dwells within me. I've been waking up for the last few days just reminding the enemy that he can just go ahead and leave because the Lord is in control. It's been fun. It's been real fun.

One last note, if you are reading this on Facebook and commenting. Thanks. But I am fasting from Facebook for now so I can't see your comments. I definitely appreciate them though. Much love!

Until next time-
Les

Maybe it's because I was sick...

Maybe it's because I was sick this week but I assure you this weekend was one of the most awesome weekends I've had in a long time. Let me just tell you about it.

I got off on Friday afternoon and went to eat pizza at Cici's. Such a much deserved treat for myself after eating soup, crackers, grits and mashed potatoes this week! Then late Friday night, Keisha and I went to see the latest Tyler Perry movie...AMAZING! I have loved every movie that kid has ever made and this movie was no exception!

Saturday morning and slept in til about 10:00 and then went to Starbucks for some much needed Jesus time. I got some great prayer time in and then I met up with Matt to prepare for Sunday School.

After that, I went grocery shopping and I also bought some new books for myself using some gift cards I had been given for my birthday. That was such a treat!

The rest of Saturday afternoon was spent with just me, myself and I...and the Lord of course. I rested and read and just chilled. I loved every moment of it.

Sunday brought sweet Sunday school time and some amazing worship time at Gateway in which the Lord confirmed some great things in my heart. A little birthday lunch for a sweet friend and some awesome girl time. To top it all off, I met a new friend and got to attend an awesome wedding. A wedding that was a true reflection and testimony of the Lord's continuous work in the lives of his children. As always (at weddings), tears were brought to my eyes and I was overwhelmed by the goodness that comes straight from the Father's hand.



Bits and pieces of what the Lord's shown me this week:
---God will help me become the person I was meant to be, if I only ask Him!
---Pride is at the root of SOOO many things that take place.
---God is my heavenly Father, He loves me with an everlasting love. The proof of that is the Cross.
---I must make every effort to allow God to move in my heart and allow Him to show me times when I can minister to the body of Christ.
---Under grace, it isn't the Christian's duty to find God's will, but rather God will reveal His will to the one who rests in Him.

Until next time-
Les

Feeling Better and A Time Machine

Praise the Lord! I am feeling tons better. The Lord is so good! Thanks to so many of you for your prayers. I was able to work all day today and have even managed to stay up a bit since I got home.

A Time Machine....
My friend, Matt, and I were talking about manna from heaven and we decided that it must have been like ice cream and maybe even some chocolate chip cookies. He said "We should build a time machine and go find out" :)...A funny thought, I know, but it got me thinking...If I were going to build a time machine and travel in time where would I go and why?

1. I'd definitely think I'd want to spend at least a few days living during the Depression because I think it would help me have a better appreciation for what I have now. (not sure how I'd do with the whole non-air-conditioned house thing)
2. I'd spend a few days with Paul while he sat in prison and ask him how in the world he was still able to have so much joy!?! (Although, I know it's because of Jesus).
3. I'd want to meet Rebekah because I think I could learn a lot from her. (Even more than I've learned just from reading about her)
4. I might go back to high school for a bit and try to have a better hairstyle (WOW)
5. I'd try to meet David (because who doesn't want to spend some time with the man after God's own heart)

Where would you go? Why?

Until next time-
Les

Things learned from the flu

1. I am not a very good patient.
2. I really think this would have been better if my momma had been here.
3. Lysol is not my favorite scent.
4. I am not a big fan of quick changes in body temperature.
5. I have always said that I loved to sleep but after sleeping most of the last 28 hours, I'm not so sure anymore.
6. You can only watch so many movies...
7. God is totally in control.
8. God is teaching me about waiting and being patient.
9. I really do love ice cream :)
10. My friends are amazing!

Until next time-
Les

The Flu

Today, I found out that I have the flu...I'm looking forward to what the Lord is going to teach me in this...
So far, I've learned this: I can rejoice because I have amazing friends who are praying for me and lifting me up. I can also rejoice that the Healer knows my name!

Until next time-
Les

Day #4

Lord, What is it that you say about me? Who have you created me to be?

- A woman like Rebekah who seeks you whole-heartedly and serves you diligently, waiting for your timing on everything.
- A woman of noble character, honest, dependable, free from gossip or slander.
- A woman who fears you, constantly going to you for strength, focused on you and not making a move until you say it's okay.
- A woman who brings good not harm to others.
- A hard-working woman.
- A woman who helps the poor and those who are in need.
- A woman who takes the place of a servant and serves.
- A woman who respects authority.
- A woman who looks to you, her husband, before anyone or anything else.
- A woman of dignity.
- A woman who laughs and finds joy in life.
- A wise woman who shares the wisdom you have given her.
- A woman whose beauty is found in the character you have given her.

God, thank you for showing me these qualities. Please move in me and make me more like this woman. I absolutely can't do it on my own strength, nor do I want to. Grant me wisdom and favor.

God, also, thank you for the opportunity you give me as a child of the King to come before you with prayer and petitions. I want to present my future husband to you. I thank you for burdening my heart for him and helping me to see that it's just as important to pray for him as it is to pray for myself. Please, Lord, grant him wisdom right now. I have no idea where he is or who he is but you know the path my life will take and you know him by name. Bless him supernaturally right now. I pray that he is seeking you with his whole life. I pray that his daily desire is to praise you and honor you with his life. Lord, give him strength to push through any tough situations he may be going through. Give him courage to stand up for you. Bless his relationships with his family and friends. May he be a light in the darkness. Pour out your spirit on him in such a way that he can't contain it all! Protect him, Lord. Protect his emotions, his heart, his mind, his physical body and keep him safe. You are so good, Lord. In Jesus name, Amen!

Until next time-
Les

Day #3

Wow! I'm only 3 days into this "thing" and I have already been shown so much!

1. Satan is STILL out to steal my joy (Must mean the Lord is doing a big work, right?)
2. Gossip has a total foothold in my life (this has to stop)
3. Pride is so easy to fall into (Yuck!)
4. The Lord desires for me to be satisfied in Him and Him ALONE! (All relationships will be easier when this occurs)
5. I don't yet have a full understanding of God's grace and mercy. Therefore, I can't offer it as freely as I desire. (Sorry friends)
6. He is Jealous for me! (How He Loves Us, Kim Walker)
7. Pride and Self-righteousness have a lot in common (Is one the root of the other?)
8. God is totally good and EVERYTHING He does is good. (Everything)
9. My Father is SOOOO gentle in "chiseling" away the funk in my life (God Chisel on youtube)
10. The Lord has some amazing things to teach us through Luke 15 (It's insane!)

Hmm.....

Until next time-
Les

I sooo should have known!

I should have known that when I made such a strong commitment to seek the Lord over the next 2 months that all of HELL was going to come against me! And it totally has! Satan didn't even give me one day to get going before he jumped all over my back! Praise the Lord that "greater is He who is in me than he who is in the world!" (1 John 4:4). I am more than a conqueror!

Until next time-
Les

Day 1 of the 61 day Challenge

A few weeks ago, I really felt a stirring in my spirit to set aside some time to really sit at the Lord's feet. I wrote down several things that I felt like the Lord was speaking to me and I decided that this time would be from September 1st through October 31st. Today is day number 1 and here is what is driving me: "God is most glorified in me when I am most satisfied in Him". Simple, pure, contented satisfaction in the Lord alone. That's the goal of this next 61 days. There are several premises and "guidelines" if you will, that the Lord has placed upon my heart but it pretty much boils down to that one statement "God is most glorified in me when I am most satisfied in Him"

Looking forward to sharing the next 61 days with you via my blog! It's sure to be a life-changing time for me!

Until next time-
Les

Saturday Morning Sit Down

Wow...I can't believe it has been over a month since I have blogged. That should give you a little insight into what life has been like...B...U...S...Y!!! But honestly, I can't even complain. The Lord has been so good to me. He has sustained me through the incredibly busy and hard times and He has done some amazing things in my life in the process. I am having difficulty recalling all of the super awesome events of the last month to share with you. I'll share one of the most recent events and probably the most important one right now...

Last Friday, I left work in time to get up to Birmingham to go to the Wisdom Seekers small group at Johnny and Tammy Walker's house. I had been wanting to go every week since it started but it's just been too difficult to get there. I decided I was going on the last week no matter what and that I'd stay in Birmingham for the service project the next day and the grand opening of the Dream Center. I got to Birmingham and met a sweet friend and we went up to the Walker's. Man, when you drive on to their property you can feel the spirit of God...wow! I didn't tell any of my friends that I'd be there so everyone was shocked to see me (you know that feels good!) I truly enjoyed the fellowship but I must say listening to David and Shannon speak was, what I feel like, a spiritual turning point for me. I know they said a lot of things that everyone else says and even things I've said myself but something happened in my heart when I sat there listening to them and I am forever grateful. Shannon and David were completely transparent when they spoke of their spiritual journey thus far and, of course, that spoke volumes to me. Love REAL people. But the things that stuck out the most in my mind and have continued to stick are this:

First, they spoke about getting up real early some mornings to get into the Word and pray for hours at a time. Shannon said they didn't do it as often as they should but when they did, David was often late for work. Wow! This meant so much to me because I have struggled for years to have a morning quiet time. It's so hard for me. I am a morning person but I have never allowed myself to use that morning time to spend with God. It always got pushed to the end of the day and sometimes didn't even take place at all.

Second, they spoke about us, as singles, remembering to fulfill the vision God has given us. I was struck by this because I realized there are things in my life that I have put on hold while I wait for a spouse and that's just not what the Lord desires for me. So, what have done about those two things???

Well, this week I set my alarm for 5:00 like I always do during the week. However, I put a new rule in place: No getting to work before 7:00 unless it is a special circumstance. This allowed me to be free from that burden of feeling like I had to be there early to get things done. I know, it's silly that I set a rule for myself but those who know me know that I am a rule follower so if I set a rule, it has to be followed. This week I got up at 5:00, washed my hair and then turned on worship music, read my bible and prayed. I can honestly say this may have been one of my best weeks at work. I know it is a direct result of me getting up and giving the first of my time to the Lord.

I also have been doing a lot of thinking and soul-searching regarding the Lord's vision for my life. Yes, I want to be married and have a family almost as much as I want anything else in my life. But clearly, I'm not there yet. So, what does the Lord have for me right now? Where does he want me to go? What does he want me to do? I am trying to answer these questions now and actually I'm super pumped about it!

Some words of encouragement for anyone who reads this blog: "My dear, dear friends. I Love you so much. I do want the very best for you. You make me feel such joy, fill me with such pride. Don't waver. Stay on track. Steady in God." Philippians 4:1 I love Paul and how much he cared. I want to be that person for my peers.

You can see that the Lord has been truly great to me. I am glad I have opened my eyes to begin to see the fullness of it!

Until next time-
Les

Happy Father's Day

Mad props to Dad for being so cool! Wishing you the best Father's day ever!

Until next time-

Les

Oh...Bass Pro

About two weeks ago I was talking to my dad about his upcoming birthday and Father's day. He is always so persistent that he does not want any gifts. Well, obviously, I always get him a gift and I always have to wing it because he won't ever name anything he wants. So I pinned him in a corner and told him this year would be different. I have a "big girl" job now and I can afford to get him a nice gift and he had to tell me what he wanted. Well, I gave him two days to think about it and then I called him. He told me he wanted a new fishing reel, a Shimano Sonora 4000 fa. I was so glad that he was able to name something he wanted. I wrote down the information and set out on my quest. I looked online to see if the company had a website and they did but they don't sell directly from the website. Store Locator gave me two stores, one of which was closed and one of which has yet to open in Montgomery. I decided to call Bass Pro Shop in Prattville. I called and got the fishing department and asked the guy if they had this specific reel. First, he comes back and says "Nora, we don't have any nora reels". I went on to say, not "Nora but Sonora, S-O-N-O-R-A" He says "Okay" and I hear him calling to his co-worker "Sonra" He gets back on the phone and says "Ma'am I can't find that" I spelled it for him again and he says "Do you know how much it costs???" "No sir,I don't know how much it costs that's why I called you" After all that work he tells me they don't have it. I got off the phone and I thought...Bass "Pro" yeah right....wow.

And just so you know, I got the reel from a locally owned company in Louisiana where the guy actually knew the names of the reels he sold.

You are worth it Dad! :)

Until Next time-
Les

Commonly used phrases

Peace out
Peace out, homeslice
Whaattt upppp!
Uh...how 'bout no!
Word.
Word to your mother
Word to your mother in Wal-mart
Whatev...
Good Morning Sunshine!
Later Player
Love you much
You wish!
Heck no Techno

Just thought I'd share these....random, I know!

Until next time
-Les

Blessed and Highly Favored

I used to say this all of the time. I realized just recently that I don't say it hardly at all anymore. Could it be that I've forgotten how blessed and highly favored I am...I think so. This week, the Lord is reminding me of that by blessing me with some great things at work. I am sure that I am 100% blessed and highly favored of the Lord.

Until next time-
Les

Too funny not to share!

A friend sent me this and I had to share!

The pastor asked if anyone in the congregation would like to express praise for answered prayers. A lady stood and walked to the podium. She said, "I have a praise, two months ago, my husband Tom had a terrible bicycle wreck, and his scrotum was completely crushed.. The pain was excruciating and the doctors didn't know if they could help him." You could hear a muffled gasp from the men in the congregation as they imagined the pain that Tom must have experienced. "Tom was unable to hold me or the children," she went on, "and every move caused him terrible pain. We prayed as the doctors performed a delicate operation, and it turned out they were able to piece together the crushed remnants of Tom's scrotum and wrap wire around it to hold it in place." Again the men in the congregation were unnerved and squirmed uncomfortably as they imagined the horrible surgery performed on Tom. "Now," she announced in a quavering voice, "thank the Lord Tom is out of the hospital, and the doctors say that with time his scrotum should recover completely." All the men sighed with relief. The pastor rose and tentatively asked if anyone else had something to say. A man stood up and walked slowly to the podium. He said "I'm Tom." The entire congregation held its breath."I just wanted to tell my wife that the word is sternum."

Until next time-
Les

To the extent...

To the extent that we understand and appreciate God's forgiveness, grace, mercy, peace, love, salvation, etc...to that same extent do we desire to share with others...Just something to think about!

Until next time-
Les

Life Goals

At the beginning of this year, I wrote some goals to accomplish within this year or just within the next couple of years. Sadly, I have made very little progress toward these goals. So, I decided to blog about them and maybe the two people who read my blog can hold me accountable.

1. Learn how to shoot a gun.
2. Watch at least one new movie each month. (I think I've done this)
3. Go to at least 2 new place each year.
4. Learn to sew.
5. Go sailing.
6. Spend an extended amount of time in a foreign country.
7. Teach someone to read.
8. Mentor a child.
9. Get involved in a community service group.
10. Learn a foreign language.
11. Write at least one letter a month to my future husband.
12. Continue to stay debt free (doing great with this one, PTL)
13. Continue my education each year. (Doing this right now with a Dementia therapy program, 11 hours of DVDS!)
14. See a Braves baseball game.
15. I'll add to this list as time goes on.

Until next time-
Les

Tears to my eyes

Over the last several years of my life, I have really begun to realized the hurt the "world" has caused in the lives of believers. The one thing I am focusing on now and is just really tearing me up is this...Men have not been treated like they are men! The world has torn down our men and demeaned them and discouraged them...to the point that they almost don't know how to be a man nor do they know how to accept encouragement. Case in point...I have been going to a small church here in Montgomery and have begun to get involved some. This morning at church, the worship was amazing. The worship leader, who always does a good job, did a GREAT job. He stepped out of the box, he showed passion and he spoke boldly. I was thrilled. One of my friends sat down after worship and I told her about how impressed I was and she agreed that it was amazing. After church, I went to the worship leader, who is an acquaintance, and told him that I thought he did a great job. I even went so far as to say that it was the best Sunday of worship. He stared at me blankly. Being the bold woman that I am, I said "You are supposed to say thank you". He said "You're lying". I said "No, I'm not it was really great." And he says, "I'm sorry. I didn't get very many compliments when I was younger. I was always told about the things that I didn't do right".....WOW....God sustained me because I could have cried right there.

Challenge to you: Encourage the men in your life. Lift them up. Speak life giving words to them. Bless them. Tell them thank you for their service. It will make a difference.

Until next time-
Les

Good week so far!

This weekend was amazing and I so enjoyed spending time with my friends in Birmingham. It was a much needed refreshing. Sunday was the 25th anniversary celebration at Gateway here in Montgomery. I was so encouraged during the service and the Lord was absolutely present. I loved getting to fellowship with my new friends afterwards as well. Sunday night I went to my friend Laura's house for dinner and fellowship and the "good stuff" just continued. Today was a busy day at work as the rest of this week will be but I am 100% thankful for God's provision of work for me! Tonight was a church softball game and I was glad I went. I came home and made red beans and rice and cornbread muffins for dinner. I will be eating that all week which makes dinner so easy after a long day! Looking forward to American Idol, Wednesday night church, Soccer game Thursday, Friday fun, Saturday sun and Sunday Soaking!!!

Until next time-
Les

Who's helping Who?

So, today I went to check my mail and in the box was an envelope from Church of the Highlands. Inside was a letter along with a check. The check was a check that I had written for my tithe check. The letter said: Dear Leslie, I'm sorry that I must return your check. The payment amounts do not agree. Sincerely, DB...So I look at the check and my written amount and the numeral amount are different...WOW!
Am I helping my patients or are they rubbing off on me?!?!

Until next time-
Les

Fried Oreos

First you freeze oreos for at least three hours. Heat some canola oil in a small pot. Mix up any kind of pancake batter. Coat the oreos in pancake batter and drop in hot oil. They literally take 1 minute to make. After you take them out, sprinkle powdered sugar on top....AMAZING!!!

Until Next time-
Les

A "funny"

Last week, I asked one of my residents how many children he had. He told me he had 14. I was shocked and then he said "I told my wife to leave me alone and let me watch TV!"
WOW!

Until Next time-
Les

Very Encouraged

I went to church here in Montgomery this morning and it was wonderful. As I was leaving, the pastor stopped me and said "You are very encouraging in your worship." I told him thank you and he went on to say "I looked over at your during worship and said to myself 'Wow, she's really praising the Lord'" How encouraging is that!

Love the Lord

Until next time-
Les

Mom and Me!

Mom and me at Easter! Post haircut!

Mom and me at Jill's Wedding. Pre Haircut!

Giving Props to the Madre for all she's done for me! Sure do love her. And yes, I know we look alike. I tried to deny it for years but it's just too obvious now :)

Until next time

-Les

The Update

The other day I had fun filling out a little survey for my blog but I realize now it's time for a real update. I don't know where to start so I'll probably just ramble :)

Things have been a rollercoaster at work, busy, not busy, busy, not busy. Right now, we are not busy which is tough but God is completely providing for me because two of the other local nursing homes, also staffed by the therapy company I work for, are super busy and I've been able to get my hours. There was some interoffice drama last week which really messed me up for a few days. However, on Sunday when I was coming home from Louisiana, one of my friends from Birmingham picked me up at the airport and had a sermon CD from Highlands service. I popped it in and WOW did God speak to me. What I gleaned from the sermon was: relationships are super important (DUH) and that we have to handle crisis or in my case, drama, keeping in mind that the relationship is top priority. When I looked at the situation from that perspective, it all seemed so trivial and meaningless. The Lord is so good.

This past weekend I went home to visit a friend who just lost her grandmother. I felt like the trip was one the Lord wanted me to make and certainly one that I wanted to make as well. I flew out from Birmingham to New Orleans after work on Friday. Friday night we went to eat and to Lowe's (woohoo). Saturday, we had a Waffle House experience, did some shopping, and went to a crawfish boil. Sunday, we went to a church in New Orleans and had lunch before I had to head back out. It was a refreshing time and such a blessing.

Life in Montgomery is good. I had a "God" moment almost 2 weeks ago that put things into perspective for me. I had really been down and out about not really knowing anyone since moving here. It had been almost four months and still no "real" friendships had been formed. I had been attending a church here but things just weren't clicking. On April 25th, a Saturday, I was home chilling out when I really started to think about the whole situation. I decided to take my Bible and read and just think, if nothing else. I was sitting in Starbucks when my friend Adam called and asked how things were going. I told him things were okay and that I knew that God was trying to teach me something, I just didn't know what. Literally 2 minutes after we got off the phone, I opened my bible to Matthew chapter 21 and a verse jumped out at me that nearly left me stunned. I realized that I had to lean on and even fall on Jesus, the chief cornerstone. He wanted to break me and put his plan into action. It occurred to me that I was only satisfied if the plan was going my way. That next day in church, the sermon was about commitment and the story of Naaman was shared (if you are unfamiliar with this story, it is in 2 Kings) and God showed me that I was like Naaman, committed only if it was done my way. Immediately, I had a change of heart and began to see the church differently, the people differently and saw my purpose for being there begin to unfold. I don't know or understand the fullness of it yet but I'm psyched to see what is in store for me.

I know lots more is going on but I can't think of it all. I need to update more regularly so I can keep up!!!

Until next time
-Les

About me...

Found these on Facebook so I thought I'd put them together and make a post out of it :)

Happy Monday!!!

1. How old will you be in five years?29...wow
2. Who did you spend at least two hours with today?myself and my patients
3. How tall are you?5 foot 3 and ¾ inches
4. What do you look forward to most in the next six weeks?6 weeks…hmm…growing the friendships that the Lord has begun here in Montgomery
5. What’s the last movie you saw?Ha….Hannah Montana and right before that I saw Fast and Furious…great combination. I’m well rounded!
6. Who was the last person you called?Mom
7. Who was the last person to call you?Carrie Gautreau…love that girl!
8. What was the last text message you received?Brittany Oliver telling me that her sister got a new car!
9. Who was the last person to leave you a voicemail?Stephanie
10. Do you prefer to call or text?Depends on the person and the day
11. What were you doing at 12am last night?sleeping…duh!
12. Are your parents married/separated/divorced?My parents are married but not to each other
13. When is the last time you saw your mom?the Monday after Easter
14. What color are your eyes?I don’t know….used to be blue but now I think more green than blue
15. What time did you wake up today?4:30
16. What are you wearing right now?PJ pants and a t-shirt
17. What is your favorite Christmas song?Grandma got run over by a reindeer
18. Where is your favorite place to be?I don’t know…tough one
19. Where is your least favorite place to be?I don’t know…that’s a stupid question
20. Where would you go if you could go anywhere?Right now Charleston and Savannah are on my radar so I guess right now, I’d go there
21. Where do you think you’ll be in 10 years?I’ll be 34 almost 35…I’d like to think I’ll be married with at least one child…but who knows
22. Do you tan or burn?Ha…burn, baby, burn!
23. What did you fear was going to get you at night as a child?Don’t remember fearing anything
24. What was the last thing that really made you laugh?Telling one of my friends a funny story
25. How many TVs do you have in your house?2…but I don’t have cable
26. How big is your bed?twin bed…helping me learn to stay still so I won’t kick my husband when I get married
27. Do you have a laptop or desktop computer?well…funny you should ask It’s a laptop but the screen is out so it’s hooked up to a monitor. I guess it’s a lapdesk
28. Do you sleep with or without clothes on?with
29. What color are your sheets?burnt orange or green…depending on the week
30. How many pillows do you sleep with?2
31. What is your favorite season?I have always said winter but I think it’s just the weather between January and May
32. What do you like about fall?Football season…hello!
33. What do you like about winter?The cold weather
34. What do you like about the summer?It used to be no school but those days are gone….I guess I just like all of the sunshine and of course, baseball
35. What do you like about spring?The nice weather and great breezes
36. How many states provinces have you lived in?2...Louisiana and Alabama
37. What cities/towns have you lived in?Fluker, LA, Baton Rouge, LA, Hammond, LA, Amite, LA, Monroe, LA, Hoover, AL, and Montgomery, AL
38. Do you prefer shoes, socks, or bare feet?Usually flip flops but the shoes come off as soon as I get home
39. Are you a social person?Extremely
40. What was the last thing you ate?Rice Krispies and a banana
41. What is your favorite restaurant?Don’t know…I like anything mexican or japanese
42. What is your favorite ice cream?Cookies and Cream
43. What is your favorite dessert?Banana pudding I think
44. What is your favorite kind of soup?Taco Soup or Potato soup
45. What kind of jelly do you like on your PB & J sandwich?Grape…it’s the only kind
46. Do you like Chinese food?oh yeah
47. Do you like coffee?no sir
48. How many glasses of water, a day, do you drink a day?about 16oz…maybe. I don’t drink very much
49. What do you drink in the morning?just depends on the morning…nothing specific
50. What non-banking related card in your wallet is the most valuable to you?my license
51. Do you sleep on a certain side of the bed?it’s a twin….I’ll let you figure it out
52. Do you know how to play poker?Nope
53. Do you like to cuddle?I think I would like..I’ll find out one day
54. Have you ever been to Canada?negative
55. Do you have an addictive personality?yeah…people say it’s like crack
56. Do you eat out or at home more often?home…try to eat out only when I’m with people
57. What do you miss about high school, if anything?Hmm…the fact that it was so easy going
58. Do you know anyone with the same birthday as you?Emily Clemons and Brittany Badon
59. Do you want kids?absolutely!
60. Do you speak any other languages?like 4 words in Spanish and some sign language
61. Have you ever gotten stitches?yeah…several times…wisdom teeth, tip of my finger from slicing it open on a vegetable can lid, and in my tongue
62. Have you ever ridden in an ambulance?no
63. Do you prefer an ocean or a pool?Not a huge fan of either but I guess I’d pick pool
64. Do you prefer a window seat or an aisle seat?On a plane…aisle seat, in a bus, window seat
65. Do you know how to drive stick?nah
66. What is your favorite thing to spend money on?just depends on the paycheck
67. Do you wear any jewelry 24/7?yeah…2 rings (my true love waits ring and my footprints ring), my cross necklace that mom gave me for high school graduation and my toe ring
68. What is your favorite TV show?American Idol and anything on Food network
69. Can you roll your tongue?no
70. Who is the funniest person you know?hmm…Jill
71. Do you sleep with stuffed animals?no
72. What is the main ring tone on your phone?some random at&t song
73. Do you still have clothes from when you were little?my mom has them
74. What red object is closest to you right now?uh…my hair...
75. Do you turn off the water while you brush your teeth?yeah
76. Do you sleep with your closet doors open or closed?depends on the night…usually closed
77. Would you rather be attacked by a big bear or a swarm of bees?a big bear please!!!
78. Do you flirt a lot?nope…not my style
79. What do you dip a chicken nugget in? bbq sauce or ranch dressing
80. What is your favorite food? mashed potatoes
81. Can you change the oil on a car?no…but I know people who can
82. Have you ever gotten a speeding ticket?a few and I am no longer a speeder
83. Have you ever run out of gas?heck no
84. What is your usual bedtime?between 9 and 10
85. What was the last book you read?don’t remember…some cheap christian fiction book, I’m sure
86. Do you read the newspaper?no
87. Do you have any magazine subscriptions?no…huge waste of money
89. Do you watch soap operas? seriously…no
90. Do you dance in the car?oh yeah…praising him
91. What radio station did you last listen to?usually my pod
92. Who is in the picture frame closest to you?me and Brian
93. What was the last note you scribbled on a piece of paper?things to do this week
94. What is your favorite candle scent?anything
95. What is your favorite board game?so many…apples to apples is a great one though
96. How much of your life have you wasted filling out this Questionnaire?a while but it’s fun!
97. When was the last time you attended church?yesterday
98. Who was your favorite teacher in high school?so many
99. What is the longest you have ever camped out in a tent?I don’t know if I’ve ever camped out in a tent
100. Who was the last person to do something extra special for you?hmm…Well, Brian got me a CD of yesterday’s sermon and the Lord really spoke to me through it…so that’s special

You wish it was over but I'm half way there...having too much fun :)

Some Truths! (a few numbers missing here and there :))
1. Last beverage→ Diet V8 splash
2. Last phone call→ pretty sure it was mom
3. Last text message→ from B-rit
4. Last song you listened to→ I don't know....something on the pod
5. Last time you cried→ yesterday during some baptisms...always gets me!
SIX HAVE YOU EVER:
1. Dated someone twice →no
2. Been cheated on? no
3. Kissed someone & regretted it? no
4. Lost someone special?→ I don't know exactly what this means
5. Been depressed?→ no
6. Been drunk and threw up? no
LIST FOUR FAVORITE COLORS:
1. Orange, Blue, Black, Purple
HAVE YOU:
1. Made new friends → yeah
2. Fallen out of love → no
3. Laughed until you cried → -yes, more than once
4. Met someone who changed you → absolutely
5. Found out who your true friends were → yeah...tough pill to swallow.
6. Found out someone was talking about you → yeah but whatev
7. Kissed anyone on your friend's list→ no
8. How many people on your friends list do you know in real life → all of them
10. Do you have any pets → no
11. Do you want to change your name→ when I get married
12. What did you do for your last birthday-- ate mexican food with Birmingham friends and played Putt-Putt
13. What time did you wake up today → 4:30 a.m.
14. What were you doing at midnight last night: sleeping
15. Name something you CANNOT wait for → so many things...
16. Last time you saw your father→ about a month ago when I was home
17. What is one thing you wish you could change about your life --> Hmm...not much
18. What are you listening to right now → my computer noises
19. Have you ever talked to a person named Tom → yeah
23. What's getting on your nerves right now? → nothing
24. Most visited webpage → http://www.yahoo.com/
1. What's your name→ Leslie Anne Latino
2. Nicknames→ Les, Lesilhogger, Ms. It, Poopsie, Carrot Top, Les Les...the list goes on!
3. Relationship Status → Single
4. Zodiac sign → Virgo but don't care
5. Male or female or transgendered → Female
6. Elementary--> Oak Forest
7. Middle School → Oak Forest
8. High school ---> Oak Forest
9. How many kids do you want? maybe 4...depends on when I get started!
10. Hair color →red
11. Long or short --> short now...just cut off 9 inches
16. Height → 5 and 3 3/4 inches
17. Do you have a crush on someone? no
18: What do you like about yourself? → lots of things
19. Piercings → ears
20. Tattoos → nah...I'll wait til I get married to ask my hubby if he's okay with it
21. Righty or lefty → lefty
FIRSTS :
22. First surgery → wisdom teeth
23. First piercing → My ears
24. First best friends --> Jill
25. First sport...softball or soccer
26. First sport you joined → repeat!
27. First pet → we lived by the railroad tracks so I had like 3 billion dogs.
28. First vacation→ Smokey mountains maybe
29. First concert → Acapella baby
30. First crush → ha...I have no idea!
RIGHT NOW:49. Eating → nothing
50. Drinking →nothing
51. Watching --> myself type words on the computer
52. I'm about to → read when I get done
53. Listening to --> nothing...
55. Waiting for --> lots of things
YOUR FUTURE :
58. Want kids? for sure
59. Want to get married? no doubt
60. Careers in mind? Speech Language Pathologist and mom :)
WHICH IS BETTER WITH THE OPPOSITE SEX?
68. Lips or eyes → I'll go with eyes
69. Hugs or kisses -> for now....Hugs
70. Shorter or taller → Taller
71. Older or Younger →Older
72. Romantic or spontaneous → Romantic
73. Nice stomach or nice arms → either
74. Sensitive or loud →Sensitive
75. Hook-up or relationship → relationship
76. Trouble maker or hesitant → I don't know
HAVE YOU EVER :
78. Kissed a stranger →no
79. Drank hard liquor --> not that I remember
80. Lost glasses/contacts → no
81. Sex on first date --> as if
82. Broken someone's heart → no
83. Had your own heart broken → no
85. Been arrested → no
86. Turned someone down -- no
87. Cried when someone died → yeah
88. Liked a friend that is a girl/guy? → no
DO YOU BELIEVE IN:
89. Yourself → yes
90. Miracles → yes
91. Heaven → yes
93. Santa Clause → no
95. Kiss on the first date? → depends
96. Angels → yes
ANSWER TRUTHFULLY:
97. Is there one person you want to be with right now? no
98. Had more than one boyfriend/girlfriend at one time? no

Until next time
-Les