Emily's Blog

Back in the Habit.

2006-08-31T19:47:00.000-07:00

Just thought these were cute!

Okay, so I am probably not back in the habit-but I am back for a short visit. I have been nothing but neglectful to my blog, and there is just no excuse. Dad wanted me to freshen it up a bit-so here it goes.

I had a pretty good summer full of pre-school teaching, job interviews, stressful exams, family fun, time with the boy, and the last "summer" I will have for a while-possibly ever.
I am now working as a school social worker in Euless at an Elementary school. I am really enjoying it! I will work intensively with atleast 90 kids...and there is a definite need for services in the area I am in. I am at a great school with a great staff! I am still completely in love and so happy with Clay:) I am glad to be done with school, and my transition to the real world is slowly but surely happening. I am still lucky to have gracious parents that will keep a roof over my head-they truly are the best!
You all know I am more of photo blogger, than a verbal one...so enjoy the small summer slide show...and hopefully I will have some interesting school stories for you soon...oh, kids.

Fun at the creek

Lots of wedding shower fun this summer

Beautiful Bride of July...

...and beautiful bride of August

...and my boys.

It has been a good summer, and the Lord has proven once again to be faithful. I am blessed to be in the family I am in, and to be loved by the ones I am loved by. Good game, summer.

A little pomp, and a little circumstance

2006-05-17T12:51:00.000-07:00

Well...I did it. I graduated for the third and final time. On Friday, May 12 at 11:30am I graduated from UTA with my Masters of Science in Social Work! It was a great weekend!

Cousin, Mary Kate, and nephew, Jack were glad to watch the graduation. I can't wait to see these two graduate some day!

My Grandma and Poppa have been so supportive of all my educational endeavors. They treated us all to a great celebration lunch at my favorite little pink cafe, the Celebrity Cafe. It was a great time after a long ceremony.
These are the two that have been the most supportive of me in my seventeen years of education. Mom and Dad made this a great weekend for me, and we had such a great time. This picture is at the Celebrity Cafe. Friday night they treated me and the fam to an amazing dinner at the Reata in Fort Worth and a fun time at Four Day Weekend. We had such a blast! I truly can't thank them enough for encouraging me and giving me so many opportunities in my education. I love you two!
Sweet Clay surprised me at my graduation. Since my graduation was Friday afternoon, I knew he wouldn't be able to get off work to attend. Well, I will brag on him and let you all know he worked overtime all week just so that he could come to my big day! What a precious gift. I was so surprised! He is too good. This pic was taken Friday night as my family and I began our fun night in down town Fort Worth. This is actually where Clay and I first met...yes, in a parking garage. Oh, to internet hook ups. If you haven't heard our story-you simply must.

Well I graduated with my masters on Friday and my cousin, Melissa Jo graduated from Kindergarten last night. She came to my graduation almost directly after she got off her plane from Hawaii...poor thing (pictured above)...and I attended her big kindergarten graduation (pictured below)! Honestly her graduation was a little more entertaining! I am so proud of her!

So, I am all graduated and currently waiting to see what the future holds for me. I had such a great weekend, and my family made it all so special for me. I am indeed spoiled and loved. Thank you all! Now I need to take my big licensing exam and you know find a job. All in good time...all in good time.

In completely unrelated news my sis and brother-in-law are headed to the big apple next week for a greatly anticipated vacation! Christine, big time theatre buff, has never been to NYC...I am so excited for them. They are planning shows, shopping, the Today Show, good food, and sight seeing. I am so pumped for them...and you know we get to watch our little man Jack while they are gone! Y'all have fun-you two deserve it!

Spring Fever

2006-04-19T09:11:00.000-07:00

So apparently my blog is less of an online journal and more of an online photo album. I don't really have a whole lot to say, but just that I am loving life and enjoying spring. I am graduating from graduate school on May 12th, and I just can't believe it. The job search begins! If you randomly hear of any social work jobs in good old Ft. Worth, let me know! God has been so good to me this year, and I am so thankful for the lessons I have learned and the challenges school has given me.

Anyway, I wanted to share some of the fun stuff this spring that has been going on in my little world...

Jena and Shawn came in from Midland, and I finally got to see Jena for the first time since November. Clay and I met them at Starbucks for a quick visit, then had a photo shoot in the parking lot!

Easter was a great day at the Tyndall's...a bit hot, but lots of fun. My cousins are getting so big. Since when is Peter taller than me?!?! Peter, Melissa Jo, Mary Kate, Nathan, and Jared looked so great in their Easter best. I love my way too big family.

Clay is wonderful, to say the least. We accidentally matched on Easter...i loved it! I am so thankful for him in my life, and we are having such a blast. I am in love! I know- he is pretty good looking, too!
This is what the backyard at my parent's house looks like most of the time so far this spring. Jack, Melissa Jo, and Mary Kate love kicking back on the swing while usually Clay cooks out, and the rest of just sit around...it is so the life.

My blog wouldn't be right without some Jack pictures. SO here is Jack with his best little friend, Elmo. He got this Elmo Easter basket, and he had a fit! Here he is giving Elmo a smooch. He is becoming such a little man!

One last spring pic of my two guys...Clay and Jack have become fast little friends, and we have so much fun hanging out with Matt, Christine, and Jack.

So, thanks for looking at the scrapbook...i wish i had some funny stories or exciting news, but for now the photo album will have to suffice. I hope you all have a bit of spring fever too...I hope to have some job interviews soon, of course more pics of Jack, ramblings about Clay, and graduation news to tell you all soon! Enjoy the Spring, I mean Summer, like weather!

My Leave of Absence...

2006-03-22T06:34:00.000-08:00

Well, I wrote this blog a while ago, and had been saving it for some reason, but then I received a shout out from Cassie demanding an update-so basically this all for my amazing friend Cas, that I never ever see or talk to enough, but we always pick up where we left off...oh, yeah and this is for the rest of you too!

random picture of me and cassie (the one this is for...), and also for the rest of you too....

Okay so I have been a little blog avoidant lately, and I am sure that has just broken many of your hearts...My mysterious blog disappearance has been due to many factors...some of the things include: a garage sale, a man, 3 of the most complicated term papers in my life, weekend getaways, family time, a crossover to myspace, oh, and did I mention that man?!?!
so, i apologize to my multitudes of blog subscribers, but atleast I left you with pictures of Jack to look at for the last month!

SO, my life is so full right now of overflowing gifts from God. He has blessed me in so many unexpected and unimaginable ways-but that is the God that we serve! The blessings are in the little things and in the big. God has poured out his gifts, and I hope now I can serve Him and bring honor to Him in my acknowledgement of those blessings. The good things in my life are as follows (in no particular order and the list is in no way exhaustive, otherwise you would be here all day reading...

-I am about 52 days away from graduating from graduate school...if only all these papers, tests, and projects would get done...hard to get done, when I am blogging and not working...but I am so close to the end!

-I am in a relationship that has been a direct gift from God. Clay is an amazing man of faith. We are having so much fun together, and I am continually baffled as to how I got this lucky. ...this is a blog all its own...or, Cas-just a really long phone conversation:)

- I have the absolute best family in the world. My parents are so giving and encouraging, my siblings are my best friends in the world, and I have the cutest nephews ever! I could keep going with the extended family...i am a lucky girl!

-I am confident that God has some great post-graduation plans for me. I am learning patience and faithfulness right now. I have a lot more to learn

- I am reading Beth Moore's A Heart Like His right now- it is great.

- I am so encouraged and in awe of my friends. How did I get to be friends with some of the most amazing Godly women?!? I am uplifted by old friendships and precious new ones.

-I love spring time! It is a time of growth, sunshine, beauty, and color- I love it!

-I have been blessed through conversations with a lot of meaning-that is always fun, and I have also been blessed with the gift of belly-aching, knee-slappin times of laughter

-I have made some special friends at UTA. I have only been there a few short months, but I have met some amazing social work professionals and I have been challenged in my faith!

-I have the cutest puppy ever. okay, so mollie is no longer a puppy at the young age of nine, but she is so cute!

-I am blessed to be with someone who values family in the extreme way I do...family is such a gift

-I am finally kind of going to the gym...there is definitely room for improvement, but i love the time i spend taking care of body and clearing my mind

-I have learned a great deal from my internship, and I don't doubt for a second God wanted me to be here in Aledo this year

- two of my roommates from last year are getting married to Godly men this summer, and the third roommate that got married last summer is having a baby of her own...oh, my Griffith girls!

-I am full of joy and desire for the Lord, and I am so unworthy of these gifts...

...doesn't sound like too much is going on when you make a list of it, but my life is so full right now, and God is moving and doing so much!!!

I love you, Cas...and the rest of you too, of course:)

Spoiled by Auntie...

2006-02-22T11:20:00.000-08:00

I was looking through some of my pictures on my computer...and I noticed a common theme-I (a.k.a. AUNTIE) spoil Jack (a.k.a. pooter)! You know I think that is what aunties are for! I am sure Christine is taking notes of my efforts to make the kid rotten-and I am sure some long day from now I will get what is coming to me! As if Jack already didn't have a picture sight all his own on his mommy's blog...here are a few more! So check out things you can only do with Auntie:

Indulge in all that is sweet...okay, so really this drink was Mimi's but I might have accidentally let him have a sonic swig

Learn the designer way...I mean the kid loves Coach, what can I say-he is really after my cell phone, and did I let him have the cell phone?...Ofcourse!

Stay messy...apparently Uncle Bradley gets away with this too!

Experience a number of career opportunities- he would make a fine bell-hop and who do you think encouraged him up there...well, auntie ofcourse!

About one minute prior to this snapshot Christine calmly said, "you probably shouldn't give him the whole bag of goldfish..." Well, could you resist that face?!?

...too bad I couldn't capture the bed jumping, the "no, no, no," or the toy store...I am so glad I have my little pooter to spoil, but I am so glad that he has parents that are disciplined enough to bring him back to reality while at the same time showing him the time of his life! I am so grateful and blessed to watch Matt and Tine parent in such a faithful, relaxed, disciplined, fun, patient, devoted, and loving way. I don't think this kid knows how good he has it...thanks Matt and Tine for letting me do the auntie thing, and as for

auntie, I will just keep spoiling!

I spoil the pooter...and this is the thanks I get-he is so glaring at me! But he is still so stinking cute! I wish you could all hear him say "Emily"-absolutely priceless...all you aunties out there keep up the fun!

The Bandwagon...well, I am on it

2006-01-22T20:15:00.000-08:00

...yes it is true. I have become a serious Francine Rivers addict. I am officially like a few years behind on every "trendy" thing there is...well, it took me long enough to pick up a Francine Rivers book, and let me tell you I can not put them down! It is almost like Christian "cliche" to love her books, but I am no poser-this is the real deal! If you haven't read them-read them...and if you have read them-well, start praying she writes some more. I started of course with Redeeming Love, moved quickly to The Atonement Child, next it was The Scarlet Thread, then followed by Leota's Garden...I just couldn't put them down. Well, I knew my grandma would love them too, so we started sharing the books-like our own little Grandma and Emily book club. I have loved sharing these books with her! For my birthday, way back in November, and for Christmas, my Grandma and Poppa gave me the first two books in the Mark of the Lion Series, A Voice In the Wind and An Echo in the Darkness. Well, since I am a big nerd-school was taking over my life, and it was everything I could do to stay focused on my school assignments and leave good old Francine alone. I was so pumped when I finished my wintermester class, and you know what I did right after finishing a reading/writing intensive course-I picked up the Mark of the Lion Series. Okay, I took out these two books in no time! I stayed up till 2 and 3 in the morning to find out what would happen...

These books have greatly impacted my life! She is such a gifted writer-and her purpose for these books is to share her faith and the faith of so many through amazing stories! I can't wait to start the final book in the series, and then read the rest of Rivers' collection! I encourage you to all read these books-I am sure most of you have-reading these books is a great pleasurable activity that also stirs your faith and keeps your mind on GOD! I can honestly say these books have challenged me in my walk. so yes, my name is Emily and I am a Francine Rivers addict! I still gotta a lot more Rivers to read, too!

Well, on another nerdy note...school started up again! My last semester, I think, if I survive...why do I do this to myself? I am in a women and family policy class, social work in schools class, psychodynamics (who takes a class, when the name of the class is over your head?!?!), my integrative seminar(like a thesis paper), and my Aledo internship. It is good to be back in Aledo! This semester should be interesting, but I will be glad when it is all said and done!...

...then I can just read some good Christian Fiction compliments of Francine Rivers, oh yeah and get a job...

Happy Birthday, Dad!

2006-01-12T12:45:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow may be Friday the 13th, but it also happens to be my dad's BIRTHDAY! Roy Tyndall is the best dad I know, and he deserves the best birthday. Have you ever seen the movie Big Fish? Well, that guy-with all the adventures-that reminds me of my dad...except my dad keeps a lot more to himself. Partly, because we don't give him too many opportunities to talk-he is in a family of loud mouths...well, DAD I hope you have a great day tomorrow and I am so often amazed by the life you have led, the man you are, and the great example and impact you made on all of us as our dad...thanks dad....and now, as one of the family loud mouths I will tell you about my dad:

My dad is a....
*I-HOP lovin'

*hard-workin'
* father of five
*referee substitute from the stands
*Vietnam Veteran

*Carolina Boy
*text twist king
*grandpa of five precious boys

*polo wearing after-shave man
*retired guy...still working
*joke telling funny man
*exUNC cheerleader
*leader to the family
*sacrificial man
*army helicopter pilot

*hamburger lovin'

*I only need two pairs of shoes kinda guy
*senior citizen
*dog whisperer (we think...)
*generous man
*heart-attack survivor
*constant encouragement and coach
*God-fearing man
*Verizon/GTE retired salesman
*uncle to so many that love him
*lefty
*missionary to all around
*defensive driver to the max
*fishin' fool
*devoted and supportive husband
*cheering fan
*conservative democrat?
*guy that can be cute and grumpy at the same time
*man of faith
*coke drinker
*dad that doesn't get the recognition he always should
***YEAR OLDER...you can just guess his age, ok?

This list is random, silly, and does not do my dad justice. He has been through so many hard times and good times- and my dad has not only pushed through them all but been an amazing example to others...my dad is the kind of dad that turns a girl like me into a daddy's girl! Well, dad, Happy Birthday. We'll have some coke, peanut m&ms, and play a game of around the world for old times sake, and then we can go on a drive to I-HOP and I won't even get my Emily attitude when you tell me all the driving mistakes I made on the way!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAD...and dad quit being too cool-get a blog-everyone's doing it, pops!

(classic pictures of dad and mom in some classic 70s threads, dad as a brave soldier(looks like Brad), and dad and us on the Carolina beaches...oh, tine I wish we still looked that good in a bikini...)

...bring May Flowers

2006-01-09T20:17:00.000-08:00

Lately, my thoughts have been overwhelmed with wondering about what is next in my life...we have all been guilty of this sense of urgency to know our life plan and this fairy tale hope of somehow seeing into the future. I experienced all of these same feelings last year about this time, as I was beginning my last semester at ACU. I can remember the "what will I do in May, ahhh...thoughts"?!? Well, May came and everything was fine-more than fine-but I didn't know any of that in January. I had few, if any, plans of graduate school in January 2005-and a year later I have almost completed graduate school.

As I begin my final semester of grad school, the same thoughts are once again bombarding me. I find myself with all of these seemingly lofty life plans for the future...oh you want to know some of my thoughts? Well, a cruise would be nice (short-term plan ofcourse), moving far far away (which is odd, because I am a crazy home body-but I think I need to live on my own a little), doing mission work (well, that could be anywhere-anywhere is a mission field), finally getting my social work license (ewww...a test...), cutting off my long hair (not really a life altering plan, but not a thought you can just ignore, either), getting a job (you know, networking, applying, interviewing...nervousing!) okay...okay...boring list-but enough to make my thoughts swim. And the things that are ahead of me are possibly not even on this wimpy list.

Well, I am totally assured in my faith that I don't need to know my plans for "May," and God has never let me down! I am in deep prayer about what these current showers in my life will be bringing, but I am also challenged with the task of not dwelling on the future. So, I will enjoy this last semester as a student (and this time I mean last semester as a student...ever...I think), this time rooming with the parents, and being blessed by having those I love the most near by. I pray that I can hear God leading me, and I can not wait to see the beautiful garden He has sown for me, and I will be His worker...

guys, this whole thing may be a cheesy metaphor...but just let me go with it, okay? I just know that if blogs are still "in style" next year at this time, I will have been blessed with His plans for me in 2006, but will still be wondering and blogging about 2007...Lord, calm that desire in me and use me where you need me!

My parents gave me this apartment finder magazine for Christmas...that might have to be in the plans-I think it is in the parents plans...just kidding, they love me and I them! They didn't give it to me for Christmas...Brad gave it to me for a laugh, so ha, ha, ha! Give it a few more years, and he will be back with the parentals too.

2005 brought this little miracle...Picture...my newest little nephew, Logan Tyndall, and my dad! My parents went to South Dakota to see him and the rest of the family over Christmas...he is so special and so prayed over!

You Better Believe I am EXCITED!

2005-12-30T12:00:00.000-08:00

Well...I do hope you have all had a lovely Christmas holiday!!! I am so excited to announce the engagement of Haylee Beth Moudy to Mr. Brian Ezzell...WOO HOO! Haylee is a most precious friend to me. I moved around a lot in college, some called me a nomad...it was never due to any drama just the fact that my precious roomies loved to keep tying the knot;) I also never minded sharing a room-did it growing up with my sis...and cheaper rent in college is always a plus. Haylee and I were friends in Ko Jo Kai, but not much beyond that. Haylee and I ended up living together and sharing a room senior room-no doubt an act of God. Her friendship has meant so much to me-and there was never a dull moment in our room together! I had the privelage of seeing her and Brian's relationship grow into such a Godly and loving relationship...and now SHE's GETTING MARRIED!!! Oh, I love my little Haylee from Earth, TX and I am so happy for her! She will make the prettiest little BRIDE!

Hey, KOJIES...PASS THAT CANDLE! (okay so my candle is scented and not lit, and I am not the keeper of the garter, and this is rough pic-but get over it!... in honor of Haylee pass it anyway:)

I have had the distinct honor of seeing God honored in so many of my friend's biggest days (aren't they all gorgeous!?!)...

My sissy and Matt are a constant encouragement and example to me! They were married in 2003 She sang right before she walked down the aisle...I cried-then I ripped my dress, oops! And now we have our sweet baby Jack! I love you Tine!

Cassie and Austin were married two years ago, and I learned so much from them...my time living with Cassie and planning her wedding is a time I will never forget:) I love you Cas!

Brent and Bria's big day was about a year and half ago...another one of my roomies to bite the dust...I was so excited for them, and I am now totally excited that they are back in Ft. Worth. I love you Bria!

Jena and Shawn were married this summer...my first outside wedding;) Jena is a continual light to me and I loved sharing in her big day! I love you Jena!

And it is so sad...but I don't have a picture from my other roomie, Anslee's wedding:( I will hopefully have them soon. Anslee and Josh were also married this summer...and surprise, surprise she just found out she is EXPECTING!!! WOO HOO...a baby:) I love you Anslee!

Anyway, I just wanted to share with my ever so small bloggin' audience, that Haylee is engaged and I couldn't be happier...I thank God for my friendships with each of these God fearing women daily, and I am so blessed to have such examples of faith before me!!! Thank you, Lord for blessing me with my friends, and Thank you for blessing them with Godly men in their lives...
may your new year be blessed!

Cookies Officially SWAPPED!

2005-12-04T16:05:00.000-08:00

Okay, so we made it through Melissa Jo's second annual Christmas cookie swap-it was so much fun! I should really be writing my paper right now, but I wanted to share some pictures of the cookie swap...for more pictures go to http://melindagayle.blogspot.com (my mom's blog)! I kind of love doing fun little parties...my family really should have a little business or something-we all too much fun doing this together...but for now I guess I will stick to the social work stuff:)

Melissa Jo Emily and her reindeer cookies!

Mary Kate, Melissa Jo, and Jack...Jack wasn't sure about his fancy little outfit-but they are all such gorgeous babies!

Decorating the table was so much fun...every Christmas party needs a little pink:)

After all was said and done-these two needed a drink!

Precious Answered Prayers

2005-12-02T08:34:00.000-08:00

Well...I don't really have too much to say about myself right now. The semester is coming to an end, and I only have one more paper due next week-better start that! The next week, however, I will start a winter session course. Over the Christmas break I will be taking a three week course-family violence. Not really bringing on the Christmas cheer, but unfortunately family violence is all too much of a reality and I have to be better equipped with dealing with this monstrosity.

What I really wanted to say today is much more meaningful than my life update. I want you all to check out http://www.ourmia.blogspot.com I don't know Chad and Amy personally at all, but I went to school with Amy's sister Bethany Knox. I can remember back like three years ago when Bethany began requesting prayers on her sister and brother-in-laws behalf. Our little club of women prayed for Chad and Amy repeatedly! They wanted a baby, and just recently God blessed them with their baby girl! Reading their blogs literally brought tears to my eyes, and I was so touched to see God's awesome power, blessings, grace, and great love through this miracle of Mia. She is so beautiful, and I hope that you too can be blessed and uplifted by their story of faith.

Have a great weekend! I am throwing my cousin, Melissa Jo and many(probably too many) of her five year old friends our second annual Christmas Cookie Swap tomorrow-this party is so fun to do:) I let you know how that goes...

A Birthday to Remember...

2005-11-20T20:48:00.000-08:00

I had the most amazing weekend!!! I turned the big 23 on Saturday, November 19th. I had such a good time this weekend with family and friends...
Friday I got pampered over a much needed haircut. I got to eat lunch with my beloved grandparents-they are the best! Jack, Christine, and I went to Holiday gift market at church for just a little bit...I always have fun with that baby Jack! My mom and I went and got pedicures and of course my eyebrows waxed...birthdays are made for pampering!
Friday night I was treated to a incredibly fun dinner with the fam. Mom, Dad, Tine, Matt, and Jack (lil bro Brad was MIA) and I ate at the Melting Pot. If you haven't tried it-you must! It is a fondue place, and it is so much fun. We had some incredible cheeses, and then of course the most amazing dessert fondue:) After dinner, I went to the movies as a third wheel of course with Tine and Matt...we had a blast.

YUMMY...chocolate s'more fondue!I mean, really...that plate made all my dreams come true!
Jack preferred a lemon to fondue...silly boy. Check out that sour face. My mom and dad are the best-they made this b-day too much fun! I love you guys:)
(all this happened the day before my birthday!)

On Saturday morning, I was awakened by baby Jack. He spent the night, because his parents went to this marriage seminar thing Saturday-don't worry they are not having marital strife...So Jack stayed with us, and he loved coming in auntie's room early Saturday to say Happy Birthday-well, he tried to say it. We watched some Baby Einstein together in bed and my mom got me some gourmet Burger King breakfast-yummy:) Later that morning, I got ready and headed over to Dallas to pick up my dear friend, Jena Massie. Her and Shawn came in town from Midland, just to wish me a happy birthday...too sweet! Jena and I went to the Galleria and shopped the day away, and we enjoyed some much needed time together. We ate lunch at like my all time favorite place-La Madeline. Jena is such a precious friend. Saturday night, I had a big birthday date...with the Mavericks;) Another one of my precious friends, Kylea, got Mavs tickets and took me along for some birthday fun! We had a great time, and the Mavs basically killed the Pistons. Jena and I at the galleria...the lady taking the picture like gave us information and a history about this Christmas tree...it was funny-if you have any questions just ask!

I love this girl!

Well, I did get a birthday kiss...from a girl.

Oh, Kylea...I pretty much keep this face the whole time we are together. She is a hoot, and well-this is not a good face for me. But there is no doubt fun was had!!!

Well, as you can see my birthday weekend was such a blessing. As we approach Thanksgiving week, I am definitely reminded of all the numerous blessings I have to be thankful for. God has undoubtedly blessed me with a God-fearing family that I take for granted too often. God has also blessed me with so many special and extremely dear friendships. I had so many phone calls Saturday-from my dearest friends and family. Thank you all so much for making this a special birthday! I don't deserve on bit of it!

'Tis the Season...ALREADY!

2005-11-15T11:54:00.000-08:00

I had a meeting last night at work/internship (whatever you want to call it...) and I was pretty pooped as I began my drive home from Aledo back to the big city lights...but oh, my-when I got in the car and turned on the radio-silver bells filled my ears. CHRISTMAS MUSIC...and it is not even Thanksgiving. Oh, I am not complaining-it was a nice way to end a long day. 94.9 KLTY (Metroplex Christian Station) is already playing Christmas tunes all day/all night-all the time from now until the big day. I am sure that between now and December 25th, there will be days I may be a little sick of hearing Jingle Bells, Frosty, O Come all Ye Faithful...and I know you all know the rest-but last night it was great to hear the joy of the spirit Christmas! It was a cool 70 degrees outside-ha!, so I had my windows down to keep me awake on the drive home. I had the music up-windows down. I pulled up to a stop light, and rather than pimpin out my stereo with something like, "my humps"...or "go 'head girl, go 'head get down"...(you know the cool songs that are typically blasting out from a cool persons car-like me) all those stopped at the light got to get down with me, my rolled down windows, and something like "Hark of the Bells...Sweet Silver Bells...ding/dong..." you know the rest. I kind of giggled to myself, rolled up my window, and turned down the tunes. But, then I changed my mind and rolled them back down, and let the spirit of Christmas be heard on the streets of North Richland Hills (it is probably better to pimp(i mean share) Christmas songs than that other trash I unfortunaltely sometimes listen to)...so, i hope you have all found your Christmas stations, and trust me the fun/seasonal music is sure to brighten your day!!! The last song I heard as I drove up to my house (well, my parent's house-the one they let me live in as I mooch off them a little longer:)) was Chipmunk's Christmas song-CLASSIC! I think my sister, brother, and I lived for the Chipmunks Christmas Record (yes record)"Okay, boys...ready Simon? Okay Dave...Ready Theodore? Okay Dave...Ready Alvin...Alvin...ALLLVVVINNNN!!!"
On a side note, I always thought it was a little odd that a grown man had three chipmunk sons?!?! Any thoughts?
As in the words of the Chipmunks...Christmas is a time for joy..oh, and have a great Thanksgiving, too:)

Speaking of Chipmunks...oh, baby JACK! I can't wait to spend Christmas with this little guy:)

Let the Little Children Come

2005-11-08T19:27:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I know I just wrote a blog yesterday(that no one read,ha!) but here are some thoughts from my day today...

Some kids have to grow up too fast...
In my profession, you think I would have already come to terms with this reality, but I have not. Some children due to such harsh life circumstances, are forced to grow up too fast. My morning began with this reality. On the radio this morning, Kidd Kraddick(yes I still listen to him) was talking about how children even with terminal illnesses are required to grow up a little faster due to their incredible medical knowledge and such trying life experiences. Later today, at my internship, that radio thought was played out in real life. I am working with some kids "groups" with one of the school counselors. The groups I attended today were a divorce group and a grief group. Divorce...Grief...sound like grown-up problems to me!-but for the kids today, and the majority of others these problems are their childhood reality. Kids having to be "ping-ponged" between mom and dad, kids whose parents have suffered through cancer, kids that saw their daddy kill their mommy...heart-breaking...
They are just kids...babies. So, yes I once again had a reality check today, but I was also strengthened by the strength these kids showed me. It is rare today to find a kid who has not had to grow up too fast. As I think about not only the innocence of children, but the profound strength they hold as well, I can not help but think about Jesus and how He said "Let the Little Children Come to Me..." As "grown-ups," we think that Jesus' arms are justly reserved for our problems, our needs, our broken hearts, and our worries. But I think Jesus was and is extremely aware of the kids that were also handling pain, but they were handling the same pain as the grown-ups only they are kids...
So I am in prayer for the kids...some by name...and others as "kids". I know that they teach us so many lessons through their struggles, and I know that all kids-all humans-face pain. I want to enable them to see the arms of Jesus, looking past the "important people" and calling out for the kids. And even in the public school setting,(when I couldn't press the issue) I could see so many of these precious children running towards His arms. I am also in prayer for those that work with closely with these children...I pray that we may witness through are actions and may lead them to the Father.
I am not even a social worker dealing with CPS, abuse, or the cruelest of cruels...and I know we have all seen the struggles of a child-no matter our profession. I challenge us to enable them to hear Jesus calling the little children, and I also challenge us all to become like the little children as well...
May God bless them:)

Haunted House...

2005-11-07T14:59:00.000-08:00

So, I am a little behind on the posting...I wanted you all to see my Halloween fun from last week...

This is the my Halloween princess...She was all dressed up with no place to go! Mollie is the epitome of a spoiled dog. She is seen wearing last year's Christmas present...

And yes, this is my goofy dad attempting to scare the trick-or-treaters...I think he just gave them all a good laugh! What a silly dad-you gotta love him:)

My little cousins-Melissa Jo and Mary Kate were JoJo and Goliath (from JoJo's circus) Mary Kate was not too sure about putting the candy in the pumpkin...she wanted to hold on to it to be sure no one would take it away!!! Even as a lion, Mary Kate knows a hairbow is a fashion must...These girls are so precious to me!

Okay, so I dressed up a little too! I haven't gotten to wear that crown since my senior homecoming...promise... And being the good cousin I am, I have a dress up box in my closet full of dress up fun so it wasn't hard to put my look together-even over my social worker "costume". My cousin, Melissa Jo, was none other than JoJo from Disney's JoJo's Circus. She is just too much fun!!!

And baby Jack was quite the little pup! He loves "po-po's" translation-puppies! he was quite the ham in the costume, and his auntie couldn't resist giving him candy...oops! I am too proud of this precious boy...I love my little pooter:)

Anyway, Halloween was fun times! My family is so goofy and we are quite okay with that. I am proud to be a member of the bunch...so, the house is not haunted...just full of some silly people! other than that life is going good right now. I survived mid-terms, and I have had some super fun friend weekends with Cassie, Haylee, and Kylea I will tell you all about later! I hope you are all having a great day...and I don't know about you, but I am so ready for the holidays!!!

Always a , Never a ...

2005-10-24T20:02:00.000-07:00

I would like to quiz all (four) of you that read this blog to please fill in the blanks above. I know some of you think you are so smart and quickly assumed the answers to be always a "bridesmaid," never a "bride"...do you all think I would make my quiz so easy? Although those two words fit quite perfectly actually, that is not where I feel like going with this blog tonight-we will save that sappy post for later. I am feeling more reflective on another also appropriate, but not so common phrase. Actually, I made it up myself.

"Always an 'INTERN', Never a 'full-time paid employee with benefits that counts...'-long blank I know."

Today, while enjoying, of course, my third internship, I was thinking man, this is my third internship. Now, I am trying not to complain too much because I did choose this discipline, and I also know that an internship is something that probably almost all college graduates experienced one of. BUT, THREE...come on! I know that all three of these internships have taught me valuable social work, life, and reality lessons-and I am grateful I had the opportunity to pay (borrow) thousands of dollars to work for others!

I have a philosophy where I think that the social work profession requires so many hours of internship experience to prepare all members of the profession to work their tails off, with little monetary compensation in the end. I have mastered the art of an intern. I don't know how smoothly I will transition into the 'full-time paid employee' position...
I will be like, oh I don't need my check this month, how about I pay ya'll for letting me work here instead. My parents love supporting their 20 something year old master level degreed daughter-really I want to stay an intern!

Well, I will probably actually frame the checks...well, that might be considered loving money, so maybe I will frame just one;) I am sure the checks will still not be too impressive, but I will be grateful for seeing the fruits of my labor-monetarily atleast.

Aside from all my funny talk, I really think I have been so blessed to gain such powerful experience in my field before I am even really in the field. I have seen the power and faith of a small, non-profit, faith-based agency while an intern at FaithWorks in Abilene. I have witnessed the amazing family dynamics and seen the hard-working parents and precious kids while an intern at Head Start. And I am currently learning all about the inner-workings of a school district and the role of a school social worker in my internship with Aledo ISD, where I will be until May.

So, even if I am always an intern and never a full-time paid employee...I have been a social worker. God has shown me my gifts and given me strength to show His light even in an often liberal secular field. I am kind of like His intern...and that is just fine with me.

The "Kylea's" in My LIFE...

2005-10-17T19:16:00.000-07:00

I dedicate this blog to my special friend Kylea, and others in my life who have been a Kylea to me. Friendship is such a treasured gift, and I feel confident that I have had some of the most amazing friendships in the world!I have never been the girl to have a great click of friends, but each one of my friends individually brings so much to my life! In joking with Kylea, I told her I would create a blog all for her-and I don't think she bought it-but I also don't think she understands how great of a friend she has been! man, I wish that girl would get a blog-talk about hilarious-always!
The special friends that have impacted my life are too numerous to mention...they have each in their own special ways taught me such valuable lessons, made me laugh hysterically, been completely honest with me, listened, and let me sometimes just cry...

Kylea you're the one that is sure to make me smile,
When we are together I know there will be no sleep for a long while.
Cassie you are the one with creative touch,
You live so far away and I miss you so much.
Jena you are my girl that always has a quote...
and always the one to send the sweetest note.
Haylee you are my gal from way out west-
sharing a room with you was by far the best!
Anslee you are the one that married the cowboy,
being around you always brings me joy!
Bria you are my friend with all the style...
I am so glad you will live here in a short while!
Big sis, Tine, your friendship is by far my best...
having you as my sister has left me so blessed!
Seeing all these girls feels me with glee...
and I totally forget the boyfriend dumped me!
This is enough of my corny friend rhyme,
Not because I have run out of friends, but simply out of time!

Man, am I cheesy, huh? Well, I do love all my friends, and I am so sure that these friendships will last me a lifetime! Kylea...this blog's for you, and thanks to all of the "kylea's" in my life...

Since Blog #1...

2005-10-11T08:17:00.000-07:00

I am excited about returning back to the blog. The time-lapse has mostly been due to the fact I forgot my password...I have only had one entry, but I feel that is my duty to get into a bloggin habit. I feel that this is my duty because I read many of your blogs, but yet I don't let you into my life in return. Well, if you want to know more about my so interesting life here is your chance!
It is kind of interesting to reflect on the time that has passed since blog numero uno. In only the span of a few short months, my life has changed in numerous ways.This is my life...Since #1:

1) I did graduate, and I am almost two thirds of the way through with graduating again! Graduate school has been quite the experience. My little Christian school bubble has been busted, but no worries I remain as naive as ever!I am enjoying my graduate work at UTA, but man am I pumped this will only last one year. My third and final graduation is planned for May 2006.

2)I am also an intern in Aledo, TX as the school social worker. I am definitely learning a lot-I am getting a taste of the real workforce-minus the pay...

3)I have moved home with mom and dad-big change, but I am so grateful that my parents have tried to make this transition easier on me-they only tuck me in on week nights-j/k! Really, they have been great and rent free.

4)I had and quit my first and most likely only retail job...I loved my time at Ann Taylor, but I pretty much bought all of the cute tops and slacks I need to be a budding professional-so who needs the discount anymore? Ann and I will always have great memories-I still hold the ever so dangerous Ann Taylor credit card (that should probably be cancelled)

5)I am single after a long...long relationship. I thought I knew what was best for my life, but I have learned that only God knows. This is a huge transition, but God has provided peace and blessings-I pray that those continue. I always thought single after college was a scary phrase for an ACU alumni...but I have been so blessed by family, friends, and fun-this could be fun!

6)No more workouts...in the last few months I have been crazy busy with school, work, and broken hearts-I decided it would be a good idea to just forgo the gym-well, not a good plan...I have a membership, but that alone does not burn the calories. Hopefully-five more months from now that will be a different story

7)I got to be a bridesmaid two more times-I am never one to brag, but I am pretty much a pro! Anslee and Jena both had beautiful weddings. I think married people may just flock to me...or at least engaged. I have four precious married friends now, and my best friend and sister-also married and pretty much the best little mama ever!

Well, a lot has taken place since #1...a lot! When being a loser in the library five months ago, I did not foresee all of these life changes and events-but I have survived them! God has been so gracious-who knows what the next five months will hold?!?! I will try and blog before next February-but no promises. One thing that I will promise is that I will continue reading all of your blogs, oh and I haven't been to the library since blog #1 with either!

Saturdays...

2005-04-16T13:15:00.000-07:00

Well, since practically the whole fam has a blog, I joined in! I am in the library, yes the library on a gorgeous Saturday afternoon! I am only in this library because I am three weeks away from college graduation and that means less three weeks away from a whole lot of projects and papers being due! I obviously got distracted from my dedicated and nerdy student habits to talk to all of you. I am still in disbelief about the upcoming graduation thing. Oh, don't get me wrong I am excited, but blown away by the rapid speed in which the last four years flew by! For the first time in my life there is not a written plan for the next phase of my life, and if you know me well enough you know I love a plan! But I am excited about my choice and desire to attend grad school, I think. I feel like God has left that door open for a reason, and I am excited about pursuing that goal. Well, I am glad to see that my beautiful mom finally got a blog...dad what is the hold up? I would love to read a Roy Tyndall blog...I'm sure it would involve great words of wisdom, talk of current events, and totally inappropriate jokes! What fun! Well, I have strayed away from the deligent student role for too long-I must return to my current state of total nerd! Enjoy the beauty of the day, and please go outside for those of us that can't!
P.S.- I know this blog will kill my sweet sister due to the excessive exclamation marks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!