Alecia

Kenya Dig It!!!

2012-02-09T12:31:00.001-08:00

I'm thrilled to tell you I have an opportunity
to share Life this summer in Kenya with
a group from my church, Bridgeway.

We will be working with a nonprofit organization
called Maisha - it means LIFE!
Maisha was started by the lovely Beatrice Williamson.

Maisha is "committed to bringing hope to the hopeless
and light to the darkness." They minister to orphans, widows
& those living with HIV/AIDS.

We will leave July 12th and return July 22nd

While our team is there we will partner with Maisha
in feeding orphans & widows, organize a soccer camp,
minister to people who are HIV-positive and
help with construction projects.

There is nothing more exciting to me than
living out the scriptures ~
"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure
and faultless is this: to look after orphans
and widows in their distress and to keep
oneself from being polluted by the world."
~James 1:27~

What an incredible opportunity we have as followers of
Christ...He allows US to care for those in need,
to be His hands and feet,
to take part in His plan,
to make His name know among the nations....
WHAT A PRIVILEGE!!!

I know not everyone is called to go on the mission field
but I do know that we are all able to make a difference.

God uses each one of us in unique ways to reach the nations.
Some go, some pray & some send...all very vital roles
in helping God's Kingdom come.

With that said...I ask for prayer
prayer as we prepare to go

prayer for my heart...that I would
hear God's voice & have eyes to see what
the Holy Spirit wants me to see,
wisdom in how to minister to each person
I come in contact with.

prayer for protection from any attacks
the enemy may have planned...in the
past he's physically tried to take me out
at the knees.

prayer as I raise support...
total cost of this trip is ranging between
$3100-$3900 depending on the flights
This will cover flight, transportation on ground,
food on sight, lodging & project costs.

I have to have $1700 by April 1st
and the rest by June 3rd

God has ALWAYS been faithful to provide for me
through the generous hearts of people He's placed
in my life and I'm continually blown away
each time He does it!

If you would like to support me leave a comment
with your e-mail address and I'll send you details.

I look forward to posting updates during this fundraising process
and once I return from the trip...I'm sure you'll see TONS
of pics :-)

Thank you in advance for your prayers!

I'm also selling Maisha t-shirts for $25, proceeds
go towards my trip. They are black t-shirts with
this gorgeous design.

If you would like one...please leave me a comment
with your e-mail & I'll give you the information
on how you can get one

~

"and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry
and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your
light will rise in the darkness, and your night
will become like the noonday."
~Isaiah 58:10~

Minted & a $25 Credit...

2012-01-25T07:15:00.000-08:00

I'm a journal freak...
I have to literally talk myself out
of purchasing one any time
I'm at a book store
or in the stationery aisle
at Target

Step away from the journals, Alecia...
step away from the journals.

Well, my favorite blogger, Paige,
from Simple Thoughts posted
about these gorgeous journals
from Minted

And if it wasn't enough that they're
stinkin' cute...you can personalize them!

AND...If you sign up with them
through the link I've posted
you get an instant $25 credit on your
purchase of $30 or more!!!

Soooo...I COULDN'T pass this by!

At $16 a journal...it's a great deal

Take a look...these are wonderful gift ideas...
and with Valentine's Day & Easter coming up
who isn't in need of ideas!

Lovin' this Chair

2012-01-20T13:49:00.000-08:00

This gorgeous chair was featured on one of my favorite blogs, abode love.

I loved it so much, I HAD to post about it...
Isn't she pretty...such character!

I have a feeling, with my love of design & Pinterest...
you may see more posts from me!

Grafton Chair, Flora Dora

Laurel-Dawn is an incredibly talented designer and
I think you'll enjoy her blog...check her out!

She not only posts beautiful stuff but she's funny too.

Beautiful Sunday Afternoon with This Lovely Fam!

2011-11-16T14:23:00.000-08:00

My dear friend asked me to come out and shoot
a few pics of her family....
they had a mix up with their photographer...
sad for them but great for me!

I love any chance I can to get behind the camera
and practice.

They are a sweet family, very dear to my heart...
their girls are just PRECIOUS!

Grace Flows Down...

2011-10-25T14:43:00.000-07:00

"...as I go, I comfort myself with the thought that when I come

to the gate of the City, the Ruler of the City will easily

recognize me since I have this coat on my back—

a coat He freely gave me the day He stripped me of my rags"

~ Pilgrim's Progress ~

Sorry I'm so late in posting my follow up to the previous post.
I had a WONDERFUL trip to visit my family.
If you recall...God heavily put it on my heart
to confess my sin to those I've hurt over the years
and ask their forgiveness.
That's a VERY humbling thing but I was eager
and excited to share what God had revealed to me
and to get everything off my chest...it was a burden
I had carried around for far too long.
Also, the freedom I was feeling from all that
God had revealed and worked out in me
the weeks leading up to this moment
was overwhelming...in a good way!

So, I arrived Saturday afternoon and
realized if I had arrived a few minutes later
I would've missed the chance to talk to my Step-Dad
since he was leaving to spend the weekend
with his mom & brothers.
A little history on our relationship....
My SD came into my life 21 years ago
at a very difficult time and
for that I've harbored resentment
and anger in my heart toward him.
Now...never mind that my SD was nothing but
sweet, loving, kind and would do ANYTHING
for me...I couldn't get past my own hurt
to receive that love.
When I sat down to tell him what God
had revealed, confess my sin, apologize and
ask for his forgiveness, I was FLOORED
with his gentle spirit, loving words
and GRACE that was extended to me.
I certainly didn't deserve it but he was very
quick to give it....much like my Heavenly Father!

The next day I was throwing a baby shower
with my mom for my brother's girlfriend.
A little history there, she's been around
the family for over eight years and
through a series of events I lost all
respect for her for some decisions
she made in her life that I disagreed with.
Like any normal person not walking
around in blatant sin...
you would just agree to disagree and move on...
clearly, that was not the case with me!
I was walking around in judgment toward her
and, you know...that makes everything better!
Not so much...I can honestly say I've spent
the last eight years ignoring her...to the point
that I couldn't even LOOK at her.
Imagine family birthdays & holidays with
that awkwardness.
Well, before the shower started, I was eager
to confess my sin to her and ask her forgiveness.
She was very understanding of why I may have acted
the way I did but I quickly explained there is
no excuse for my behavior.
I was not loving her as Christ would love her.
She, too, quickly and kindly
extended grace to me.

It's humbling to sit here and right this...to confess to
you all just how ugly & deep this sin in my life was
and that I let it go on for YEARS!
But, praise God, my story doesn't end there.

As I drove back to OKC I reflected on what just happened
that weekend.
Both of these people, whom I had NOT loved well
over the years, whom I had not shown the love
and grace of Christ that was so freely given to me,
just POURED out grace to me.
I was humbled by their kindness and even more humbled
by God's kindness. I've done nothing to deserve it...
but grace has been given to me...
it's not the first time & it won't be the last!

Thank you Lord for stripping me of my rags and
placing a coat of grace on my back....
May I be mindful of this and quick to extend grace to others.

Blind to Sin....

2011-10-18T16:15:00.000-07:00

The following quote sums up what the
Lord has been teaching me the past few weeks:

“Judging others makes us blind, whereas love is illuminating.
By judging others we blind ourselves to our own evil
and to the grace which others are just as entitled to as we are.”

~Dietrich Bonhoeffer~

Man...I couldn't have said it any better myself, Mr. Bonhoeffer!

I'm in a Bible study at church called

Freedom in Christ...

I took this class back in the spring

and I'm co-leading one of the

groups this fall....

I learned sooo much last time

and God is faithful, as usual, to

continue pruning me and making me

in His image...as I sit in The Fire.

Two weeks ago the lesson was on Forgiveness...

this is by FAR my favorite lesson in the entire course.

It's such a powerful night for all involved...

it's a night where we go and sit on our own

and work through repenting of our sin

then on paper writing out everything we would ever

want to say to the people that have hurt us...

then giving it back to the Lord and saying...

I forgive you to that person that hurt you.
Once we're finished we put it through the shredder
never to think about it again.

God had been working on me for a couple of weeks
prior to this lesson.

As I sat there listening to the two women give their
testimonies of how they've forgiven...I sat there
with tears streaming down my face and I couldn't
wait to get to the exercise...I was ready to spill
my guts and forgive the person
God had put on my heart...
which led to two others I needed to forgive as well.

I sat down with my pen and paper and began writing...
as the words appeared on the paper
God gently revealed to me how I had been blind
to my own sin....
how I've spent YEARS judging each one of these
precious people in my life...
harboring ill feelings and anger toward them...
it had gotten so bad I could hardly look
them in the face...
the worst thing about all this is that I was so
deep in my sin that I couldn't even see how I
was wrong or how I was hurting them.

God graciously softened my heart for this very moment...
to reveal my sin and change my heart toward
each one of these people.

He's also given me the heart to sit down
with each one of them
and confess my sin.
If you think about it...say a prayer...
I'll be doing that this weekend.

I can't WAIT to see them, love them and extend
the same grace & forgiveness that
Christ so graciously extended to me.
I pray through this, they will see
Christ's work in me and receive His love
through me...
To God be the Glory...
Great things He has done!!!

My Long Awaited & Over Due Bedroom Redesign

2011-08-26T10:28:00.000-07:00

It all started back in December of last year...I came across this lovely picture.

Within a half an hour I had an entire bedroom redesigned in my mind!
The gray, the white, the pop of yellow...I LOVED IT ALL!

I was now on the hunt for the perfect wall color...
the bedding...
the accent lamp...
the fabric for my curtains &
tufted headboard (yes, with the help of my
amazing family...we MADE the headboard!)
Thanks to this wonderful tutorial you can find here.
It was very helpful and
it is 27 pages
of step-by-step goodness!

This was a work in progress
over the next few months
gathering things as
my budget allowed,
waiting for bedding to go on sale,
finding great deals at flea markets,
waiting for the ever failthful
40% off coupon from
Hobby Lobby,
looking for just the right color
and fabric for the
Tufted Beauty.

In July, thanks to friends & family
We made it happen...
Let the fun begin!

Here are the before pictures....
The dark green was killing me...
never mind the fact that I've had the same
comforter set since 2001! Don't get me wrong,
it's a great set that I got at Dillard's and enjoyed the
years of mix matching sheets...but it was time to
MOVE ON!

(I didn't think about before pictures until we
were literally in the process of moving stuff)

The cute desk I purchased with the money I got
for my birthday (Yay for still getting birthday money)
It was only $89 and I found it a really cute
Antique Market here in Oklahoma City
called The Rink Gallery
It's a really fun place and on Sunday's
they have Live Music and Free Refreshments
while you shop!

OK...you get the picture...
This room needed HELP!

Currently, I rent a home with a couple of friends.
I knew I had to get approval from the landlord
to paint.

I sent them my top three and they happened to pick
my favorite color!
Martha Stewart Sharkey Gray- You can find
it at your local Home Depot
Painting the room, alone, made a HUGE difference!
With the help of my sweet roomie...
we had the room painted in a matter
of a few hours one Sunday evening.

My very talented Graphics Designer friend
Amanda came & spent 2.5 hours drawing
the outline and button placement
for the headboard...
what a blessing & what a sweet friend!
I don't work well with numbers...
without her help, it would've been a disaster,
I'm sure of it.

Thanks friend!

My wonderful grandparents drove from
Tulsa to help me make it all happen...
They are very talented and AMAZING!

I had the wonderful task of making
each button

My grandma is an incredibly talented seamstress...
She, along with the help of my great grandmother,
made my curtains, shower curtain
and a couple of accent pillows.
They spent over 100 hours in between
the 2 Saturdays sewing!!
That is LOVE.

Now for the after pictures!
I'm very pleased with how it all turned out.
We did this in 1.5 Saturdays
It's still a work in progress...
I'm waiting for my rug to go on sale
and I'll be painting my nightstand. I'll
post pics once I have that completed.

I was inspired by Kasey Buick's lovely
gallery wall over at Lola B's
It's not as grand as hers
but I worked with
the space I had and am pleased
with it.

Cleaned up the dresser, put ball caps
where they go, on a hook in the closet
and got rid of the clutter.

I had to add a crown to the room...
I LOVE crowns...
I AM a daughter of the King
after all :-)

Here's a close up of the curtains

My sweet & talented blog friend Paige
over at Simple Thoughts
took this picture.

BONUS...We had extra material
and my grandma made this
Anthropologie inspired shower
curtain for me!

You can see all of my inspiration and
details on where I purchased everything
on my Pinterest.

Cove & Grey: Villa Tre Ville

2011-06-14T08:27:00.000-07:00

A favorite blog of mine just posted about the most gorgeous house she found in Architectural Digest....it was too good not to share....Enjoy!

Cove & Grey: Villa Tre Ville: "I am loving all the homes featured in this months Architectural Digest. One really jumped out at me...it feels so crisp and relaxing. gor..."

True Love.....

2011-04-20T07:09:00.000-07:00

In my quiet time this week I'm reading through
the events leading up to Christ's Crucifixion and Resurrection...

In Luke 23:4 it says,
'Then Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowds,
"I find no guilt in this man."'

I couldn't get over this verse.
I've read it numerous times in my life
but it really stuck out to me this morning.

Christ was GUILTLESS.
Here is the man who LOVED...
He loved so much He was willing to
leave His throne and the Father,
to walk the Earth in the flesh and
take on the sin and shame that belonged to
everyone BUT Him!
He died a sinners death on the cross...
But...it doesn't end there!!!
HE ROSE FROM THE DEAD!

SO that,
we wouldn't have to pay the penalty for our sins...
I don't have to pay the penalty...
which is DEATH & separation from Him for
eternity!

Romans 3:23
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God

This just points out WE are NOT Guiltless.
I fall short EVERYDAY!
But by the grace of God, I have a savior
who paid the price for my sin
and because of that...
I don't have to be
separated from
Him!

For God so loved the WORLD (my emphasis)
that He gave His only Son, that whoever
believes in Him should not perish
but have eternal life.
John 3:16

I put the emphasis on World here because
He came for ALL.

For Christ [the Messiah Himself] died for sins once for all,
the Righteous for the unrighteous
(the Just for the unjust, the Innocent for the guilty),
that He might bring us to God.
In His human body He was put to death,
but He was made alive in the spirit,
1 Peter 3:18 (Amplified)

If you don't know Christ as
your Lord & Savior
You can...
He did this for YOU!!

What does it look like to receive
Christ YOUR Savior?

I was involved in Campus Crusade for Christ
They have a wonderful tool
The 4 Spiritual Laws
I've used some of that information below
I've linked it above if you would like
to read more.

We must believe in Him

because, if you confess with your mouth
that Jesus is Lord and believe
in your heart that God raised him
from the dead,
you will be saved.
Romans 10:9

We must Receive Him

John 1:12
As many as received Him,
to them He gave the right to become
children of God, even to those
who believe in His name.

Ephesians 2:8-9
For by grace you have been saved through faith.
And this is not your own doing;
it is the gift of God,
not a result of works,
so that no one may boast.

The only thing in this process that is left up to us
is the invitation to let Christ in

Behold, I stand at the door and knock.
If anyone hears my voice and opens the door,
I will come in to him and eat with him,
and he with me.
Revelation 3:20

If these words are speaking to you,
my prayer is that you will
invite
Him
in!

Lord Jesus, I need you. Thank You for
dying on the cross for my sins.
I open the door of my life adn receive You as
my Savior and Lord.
Thank you for forgiving my sins
and giving me eternal life.
Take control of the throne of my life.
Make me the kind of person You want me to be.
In Jesus name, Amen

If you prayed that prayer, Christ in in your life!
What an amazing Easter this will be for you!

There is more information
here
If you prefer to talk to someone
Please feel free to contact me!

I leave you with a beautiful song by
Phil Wickham
True Love

Blog Redesign

2011-04-11T17:03:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my sweet friend Christa over at One Cheap Mama I was inspired....

I wanted to redesign my blog....

I've been in the mood to redesign a LOT these days!

I found my new blog background and header over at

The Background Fairy

as suggested by Christa.

What's great about The Background Fairy....

she has TONS of designs to choose from

as well as step-by-step instructions

for how to apply them to your blog...

This is PERFECT for the

technologically challenged

like myself!

I also added a few of my favorite blogs

to my MUST VISIT section...

check them out...you will NOT be disappointed!

Hope you get inspired...

Now if ONLY my bedroom redesign

could go this fast!!!

The Fire....

2011-03-10T21:21:00.000-08:00

Ok...this is a long one...grab your coffee

and sit for a while...

Don't worry...it's not all me talkin'...

there's a sweet story at the end.

So....

I've been going through Freedom in Christ

a women's Bible study at my church....

The past couple of weeks focused on...

Repentance...

WOAH!

Talk about rock your face off!

This week was the Refiners Fire...

the importance of praising God

during those trials...

Our teacher talked about the

Israelites and how they

were rescued out of Egypt...

and they were STILL MOANING

as they were in the wilderness with

God providing for them EVERYDAY!!

How many times have I been smack

dab in the middle of a trial

and I'm moaning or trying to

tell the Lord how to do things

or to speed up the process...

God has me in each trial (wilderness if you will)

for a specific time...

I can choose to moan about it...

OR...

I could see this as an opportunity

for trusting

and

praising the Lord...

praising Him because He doesn't want

me to stay in this ugly mess I'm in...

Praise Him because He wants to

draw me closer to Him

Praise Him becuase He wants

to make me In His Image

Praise Him because

others may come to know

Him because of the trials

I'm in and how I choose

to handle them.

I embrase these trials and

I want to come out of these trials

like the woman in

Song of Solomon 8:5

"Who is this coming up from the

wilderness leaning on her

beloved?"

I trust the Lord...

I trust His timing...

I know He is with me...

In the wilderness...

I'm thankful I have Him to lean on!

I'll end with a sweet story that was read this evening...

a story about the Refiner's Fire

The passage they refer to is Malachi 3:3

"He will sit as a refiner and purifer of silver;

he will purify the Levites and refine them

like gold and silver..."

Enjoy!

Some time ago, a few ladies met in a certain city to

read the scriptures and make them the subject of

conversation. While reading the third chapter of

Malachi they came upon a remarkable expression

in the third verse.
"And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."

One lady's opinion was that it was intended to

convey the view of the sanctifying influence of the

grace of Christ. Then she proposed to visit a

silversmith and report to them what he said

on the subject. She went accordingly and without

telling the object of her errand, begged to know the

process of refining silver, which he fully described

to her.

"But Sir," she said, "do you sit while the work of

refining is going on?" "Oh, yes madam, " replied

the silversmith, "I must sit with my eye steadily fixed

on the furnace, for if the time necessary for refining

be exceeded in the slightest degree, the silver

will be injured."

The lady at once saw the beauty, and comfort

too, of the expression,

"He shall sit as a refiner and purifier

of silver."

Christ sees it needful to put His children into a

furnace. His eye is steadily intent on the work of

purifying, and His wisdom and love are both engaged

in the best manner for them. Their trials do not come

at random; "the very hairs of your head are

all numbered."

As the lady was leaving the shop, the silversmith

called her back, and said he had still further to

mention, that he only knows when the process of

purifying was complete, by seeing his own image

reflected in the silver.

Beautiful example! When Christ shall see His own

image in His people, His work of purifying will

be accomplished.

Author Unknown

The Year of Believing

2011-03-03T08:26:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I celebrated my 34th Birthday.
A few weeks ago, I had dinner with a sweet friend.
She asked me if I could come up with one word for this
coming year to describe what the Lord is doing
what would it be?!?

After talking it out a little more with her
I quickly came up with my word...
BELIEVE!

I have some life experiences that have allowed
lies to creep in...Thankfully, He doesn't
want me to live in darkness but to walk in
TRUTH!

The Lord has taken me through this hard
yet beautiful season of healing...
A season of replacing lies about Him
replacing lies about who I am
Replacing lies for TRUTH!

I did grow up in a Christian home and
I've heard many of the things I'll list below...
however...it was all head knowledge...
it wasn't heart knowledge...
I didn't necessarily realize they applied to me!

So....as I continue to walk with Him,
here are the things I BELIEVE...
Thanks to His Word...
I KNOW...they're TRUTH!

God Delights in me...and He sings over me
Zephaniah 3:17

He has great plans for me...not to harm but to prosper
Jeremiah 29:11

He is my Protector!
(Always has and always will be)
Psalm 3:3

He is my Rock & Deliverer
Psalm 18:2

He is enthralled with my beauty
Psalm 45:11

I am fearfully & wonderfully made
Psalm 139:14

He makes life known to me...
He fills me with joy...
I have eternal pleasures forevermore!
Psalm 16:11

I am a tree planted by water...whatever I do prospers
(this was a prophetic word spoken over me)
Psalm 1:3

I can wait in HOPE for the Lord...He is my help & shield.
Psalm 33:20

My prayer....

May those who fear you rejoice when they see me,
for I have put my hope in your word.
Psalm 119:74

Last but not least...

My heart trusts Him.
Psalm 28:7

What will your word be for the next year of your life?

Why Was I So Reluctant Again?!?!

2011-02-14T17:10:00.001-08:00

Two years ago today....yes Valentine's Day...I reluctantly followed the Lord from Tulsa to Oklahoma City.

It was a rough transition. I had recently been laid off from what was my dream job,
had to pack up all my things and move away...
from my friends, my family & my church....
all of which I loved!

The one bonus I had was that I would be living near
one of my best friends from college....
however, she has her own family and friends
so I knew I couldn't expect her life to stop or to easily fit me in.

Even though it was hard and I frequently asked God
"why?"...I trusted Him.
I knew He had a purpose for this move and season of my life.

My cousin Rhonda, who is like a big sister to me,
could tell just by our phone conversations that I wasn't doing very well....
needless to say she was concerned for me....
rightfully so...I was concerned for me!

Time went on....I visited a few churches and finally settled on Bridgeway.
This was the BEST decision I could've ever made!

Since I've been at Bridgeway the Lord has blessed me with
the most AMAZING friends...
they love me well...
they point me to Jesus....
they fight for my relationship with Him....
they encourage me....
AND....we have LOTS of fun!!!

I've also been going through a season of healing...
It's painful at times and hurts but it's a good hurt...
you know what I mean?!?!

The Lord has been working in my heart...
He's been revealing areas that need to be addressed...
that I didn't even know where there to be addressed!
He's been revealing Himself to me in ways I've never seen Him...
He's producing new fruit and giftings in my life like never before...
I'm humbled by His love for me and I do believe He had to bring me
here...to OKC...for this to take place.

For that....I'm truly grateful and wonder....Why did I reluctantly go?!?!
Hind sight is always 20/20...if I knew this was ahead I may have jumped on board!
Who knows really....when I know something is going to be painful...
I have a tendency to avoid it...so maybe I wouldn't have jumped on board.
All I do know is that I've been thankful for the Lord and
all that He's been doing the past 2 years...
My life is better...
My heart is better...
My relationship with Him is better...

Thank You LORD for all that You've done
All that You're doing
and all that You're going to do...
May You always receive the glory!

The following passages are ones the Lord used to speak to me
during this hard transitional period…
I knew He brought me here to draw me closer to Him…
THIS comforted me and helped me to stop asking….
Why?!?

Hosea 2:14-15
Hosea 6:1-3
Zephaniah 3:17

My sweet discipleship group

Moriah & Ashley

John & Susan

They have been so sweet to

have me in their home

and love on me.

Some of the many amazing women

that are now in my life!

My dear friend Kristi...
she & her husband Ty have been such
a blessing to me.

More of the amazing ladies in my life.

Snowmageddon!

2011-02-01T14:03:00.000-08:00

Apparently we're in the middle of a record breaking snow storm

it stretches for 2000 miles...and apparently it's headed your way...

So....stock up on your favorite things you like to

have when you're snowed in...

sit back, relax and enjoy the Thunder snow as it rolls in..

Happy Snow Day Everyone!!!

Meet Alecia...

2011-01-20T18:45:00.000-08:00

Hello Kelly's Korner Readers!

I'm Amy, with permission, I'm hijacking Alecia's Blog

to introduce her to you and to YOU single guys!

Alecia's in her mid 30's and FABULOUS!!!

She lives in Oklahoma City and works at at non-profit organization.

She's been a great friend of mine for over 10 years. We went to OU

together and she loves her Sooners, especially some Sooner football.

Music is a big part of Alecia's life.

She loves to listen to all kinds of music and will never pass up

the opportunity to see her favorites in concert.

She has a HUGE heart for the Lord and for serving others.

She is very involved within her church. Alecia has traveled the world

on missions trips. She'll go anywhere the Lord leads...let's be honest,

she'll go anywhere for that matter!

LAUGH...the girl loves to laugh and she'll make you laugh

as well...Alecia is super fun!

If you or your guy will appreciate Alecia's fabulousness,

leave a comment with a way for her to contact you.

You don't want to miss out on her!!

I LOVE MY HOBBY!!!

2010-12-29T11:04:00.000-08:00

I LOVE photography....
I'm still working on angles, editing and staging
but I'm having a blast!
Praying for the Lord to provide me with a camera
so I don't have to borrow from friends anymore...
I'm editing in Picnik right now....one day
I'll upgrade to PhotoShop!

I'm thankful for the friends that trust me
to take their pics.

The family in the above picture are dear friends of mine...
they asked ME to take their family pics this year...what an HONOR!
They were in Tulsa for Thanksgiving so we headed out
to Woodward Park...it was PACKED with people
taking their family pics...
We had a lot of fun and the kids got Slushees for smiling! :-)
Good call Mom & Dad!

The kids did a great job and they're stinkin' CUTE!!!
Thanks for letting me take the family pics this year
and giving me an opportunity to learn more.

Ariella asked me to take her senior pics....
We did 2 different sessions....
One in the summer and one in the fall...
For the summer session we spent some time
in Downtown OKC...
We hit the railroad tracks, Automobile Alley
and downtown...
For the fall pics...we found an open field with
flowers and a pond..

She's absolutely BEAUTIFUL on the inside & out...
AND you should hear her sing!!!

A couple of these aren't edited but they're
still beautiful...

I would love any feedback....or suggestions for editing, tools, camera equipment, etc...

Christmas is HERE....HE's Here!!!!!

2010-12-23T13:03:00.000-08:00

This Christmas the Lord has put a longing in my heart like never before....
This song is "Mary's Song"

I can't imagine looking into the sweet face of baby Jesus...
knowing He was here....
knowing He came to save us....
knowing that meant He was going to die....
right before her very eyes....

My heart is longing to see Him like never before....
it ACHES...but in a good way!

Thankful for His PERFECT Gift....
Jesus....
Thankful that He didn't leave us alone...
Holy Spirit....
Thankful that the longing in my heart will one day
be fulfilled!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
May your heart be filled with His presence!

Nichole Nordeman - Every Season (with subtitles)

2010-09-21T21:55:00.000-07:00

Sooo....I've never been a fan of Winter...I LOVE Summer, Fall & Spring tie for 2nd...Winter...I could do without.

I've been thinking a lot about the Lord and how He purposly made 4 seasons...that's beyond me because I would have 85-90 degree weather year round if I could :-) My roommate fully embraces all of the seasons....she talks about how in the winter....roots go deep.

There's a significance to each season and I desire to embrace them for what the Lord does in each. We all go through different seasons of life, as well, and the Lord continually works in us and grows us to be more like Him in each of those seasons of life.

A new friend heard this song on her way to work this morning and I LOVED it! It talks about the way the Lord is in each season and what takes place in each...it's really beautiful...and the funny thing is...I LOVE the verse about WINTER!!! It's giving me a new perspective of winter and I may actually look forward to it this year! :-)

I hope you Enjoy it as much as I do.

Blessings

An Offer....or Giveaway I Couldn't Refuse

2010-06-29T08:07:00.000-07:00

I LOVE PHOTOGRAPHY!!! I've stumbled upon a couple of lovely sites that have decided to have a REALLY GENEROUS giveaway!!!

Florabella has beautiful shots and nice action & textures to purchase to edit photos. She is giving away $250 to shop for these beautiful Actions & Textures.

A Workshop Workbook plus free posing guide with a value over $500- From Skye Harwick

A phone consultation with Skye Harwick Valued at $350

Here's hopin' I'm one of the Lucky 6 that is chosen! Say a little prayer & keep your fingers crosses.

This is the jump start I need to grow my talents of photography....I have a LOT to learn and would LOVE the opportunity to win such a beautiful package from these talented ladies!

Don't Play With Your Food....Maybe You Should!!!

2010-05-20T18:38:00.001-07:00

I know they say not to play with your food...

But I just couldn't resist it this evening...

I was in a creative mood!

So, I decided to spruce up one of my favorites...

Chicken Salad

The Cast of Characters:

1 Lg. Can White Chicken

Dill

Mayo

Red Onion

Red Grapes

Craisins

Sea Salt to taste

I buttered two slices of Wheat Bread

Dusted with Garlic Powder

Topped it with Parsley Flakes

Turned the oven on Broil and put the bread in

until lightly toasted

Placed some Shredded Cheese on one slice...

added the chicken salad on top...

garnished with some Red Leaf Lettuce...

Mmmmm...mmmm...GOOD!!!

Had Cottage Cheese with sliced Grapes on the side

& Some Raspberry Lemondade....

Sounds like Summer!

Check out this GORGEOUS Collection!!!

2010-05-04T08:39:00.000-07:00

I love blogland...I find so many talented people out there with beautiful things they make...I'm totally impressed...probably because I can barely sew 2 squares together to make a pillow and then, I need someone to help me stitch it closed by hand once I've stuffed it! LOL I'm always blown away at the things people come up with...their creativity is something to be admired...and I DO!!! Check out A Bushel and a Peck then visit her Etsy shop for more beautiful, one of a kind items you might like...I know I've found LOTS that I like...below are just a couple of the items I'm lovin'!

Ruffle Tote

Ruffle Apron

Aren't they beautiful and girly?!?!

I GOT A BIKE!!!!

2010-04-21T07:03:00.000-07:00

Ok...back in September I moved into this gorgeous neighborhood with tree tunnels, hills, lots of flowers and streets marked with Bike Lanes :-) The weather has just been amazing so thanks to my awesome friend, Ty lending me his bike, I've been riding through the neighborhood and really loving it. It has been YEARS since I've ridden or even owned a bike. When I was younger I used to spend hours with my friend & neighbor, Dara. We would spend the days and nights of our Summer riding around the great town of Jenks, America. We had some laughs too, thanks to me and my clumsiness! Note to self...next purchase...HELMET!!!

All that to say...I've really missed biking and when I found out I was getting a decent tax return, I thought...Let's give Ty his bike back and get your own! Sooo...I started shopping on the net and trying to get an idea of what I would want. I stopped by a bike shop yesterday on my lunch hour and narrowed it down even more, however...they didn't have what I wanted. So, I got on-line and looked for a dealer that carried the specific brand of bike I was looking at and found Schlegel Bicycles!

Enter Cliffton Hays. This guy was so nice and helpful on the phone (far different than the experience I had at the other bike shop on my lunch break). I told him my price range and the type of bike I was looking for. He asked all the right questions to make sure he could help me find just what I needed. I went in to the shop right after work...I was on a mission...I wanted to buy a bike TODAY! Cliffton showed me a few bikes in my price range and fit me to make sure I had just the right size. He went across the street to their warehouse to see if they had what I needed in stock. While he was checkin' things out over there Christine came to keep me company and make sure I wasn't just sitting there alone...great customer service & teamwork.

Photo provided by Schlegel Bicycles

Cliffton came back with this bike...the TREK 3500. They didn't have one in my size assembled yet but he wanted to make sure I liked the bike...even down to the color scheme...He knows...even the color scheme matters to this girly girl!! Have I mentioned that Cliffton was really helpful?!?! He told me when I pick up my bike they'll make sure the handles are right where I need them for a comfortable fit and everything!

He even knew, since I'm just getting back into cycling after several years, some trails at Lakes Hefner & Draper that I can do as an amateur. When all was said and done...I was able to stay within my price range, get a great bike and have an incredible experience. I was pretty nervous to be quite honest. I don't know a whole lot about bikes but everyone at the shop made it a fun and relaxed experience...they have me as a customer for life!

Photo provided by TREK

Tomorrow is the big day...I get to pick up my new bike...unfortunately the weather is supposed to be crummy the next few days so I won't get to break it in right away...but I can't WAIT!

Thanks to Schlegel Bicycles & their amazing crew!!!

Now....I can't wait to start posting pics of my rides :-)

It's Getting Kind of Ridiculous!!!

2010-04-09T21:39:00.000-07:00

You got it...another beautiful blog giving stuff away...Little Emma English Home Check it out...you'll enjoy it!

I PROMISE, I'll blog about something important soon...I've been sooo bad about updating my life in Blog! I went to a gorgeous wedding reception so I'll have lots of pics to post soon...I'll probably do some editing though, so it won't be right away.

Ok...I do have a couple of things to share...Thanks to this awesome thing called Groupon...I'm getting a 1 hour massage, valued at $185....BUT, I only paid $25!!! I'm soooo excited. It's been too long since I've had a massage and my back is needing it! Come tomorrow at noon, my body will be like jelly! For those of you in the OKC area...check it out...for those in other areas...you should go on a mad search for the thing that's like this in your city....they ALWAYS have great deals!

2nd thing to share....I'm getting a great tax return this year for once...and....I'm buying a BIKE!!! I haven't owned a bike since college. I live in a gorgeous neighborhood that has minimal traffic and beautiful tree tunnels (I LOVE tree tunnels)...so, I've been bike shopping! I'm super excited. I think I'm going the Mountain Bike direction or the Hybrid. I might go to the Bicycle Alley this weekend to try and make up my mind.

Here's a pic of the bike I like so far...I'll post pics once I get my actual bike! :-)

Beautiful Blog...My House of Giggles

2010-04-09T10:59:00.000-07:00

Great stuff can be found on this beautiful Blog..My House of Giggles....there's also a giveaway!

Check it out...you might find some great decorating ideas for your own home...I love looking at blogs and finding different & clever ideas to decorate in a way that makes a home feel cozy, inviting & beautiful all at the same time....check out this blog...you'll find just that!

Can You tell I'm All About Sweet Giveaways?!?!

2010-04-08T12:11:00.001-07:00

My Sweet Savannah is giving away these

GORGEOUS clock hands that I'm

in LOVE with!!!

I already have a beautiful idea of how

I would display them when I have my

own home.

Stop by and look at her blog...it's full of

eye candy for the bargin shopper, thrift

store lover & decorator!

Beautiful Giveaway....I'm Determined to Win One of These Things!!

2010-03-26T15:22:00.000-07:00

A GORGEOUS blog that I follow, Dreamy Whites, is having a very GENEROUS giveaway...one that I'm very excited about in particular....I've been wanting new bedding but can't justify buying it when mine is still in great condition...just a bit outdated....enter...Annette Tatum!!!

She's generously giving away a Queen Duvet from her new Spring collection...browse the beautiful and relaxing catalog.

~

She also has this amazing book called the Well Dressed Home

~

~

Happy Browsing...it's beautiful stuff!

P.S...keep your fingers crossed...I would really love to win this one!

Pretty Things

2010-03-10T19:17:00.000-08:00

Sooo....one of my favorite Bloggers is having a Pretty Things Give Away...Stop by Lola B's and enjoy the beautiful things she's giving away...then keep looking and enjoy her Blog...it's rather enjoyable and full of beautiful and fun ideas!

Who Wants to Join Me?!?!?

2010-02-23T09:27:00.001-08:00

Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon

Sooo, I like to take on new challenges. I'm no marathon runner by any means of the word but I love to challenge myself. I also feel like the Lord is taking me through a season of my life where I want to set more goals and have new adventures in my life. I will NOT be running the marathon for many reasons, one being, I haven't even trained...BUT, I can start small and do the 5K walk...who knows, this may ignite something in me to start training to run in the future!

Who wants to join me?!?!

My recollection of April 19, 1995:

It was my senior year of college. I was getting ready to leave second hour when the news came on that there had been a bombing in Oklahoma City. That moment rocked Oklahoma City and our state tremendously. I remember, shortly after it happened, driving from Jenks to Oklahoma city and walking the grounds of this tragic event. The fence was covered with pictures of men, women and children that lost their lives, stuffed animals, ribbons, poems and flowers. It was a sobering moment...a moment where you realize you aren't invincible...being a teenager at the time, I erred on the side of "nothing bad will happen to me". I remember having a sense of hope with the sight of this one small tree that survived the blast...strong, man made buildings around this tree crumbled but God's creation remained...A symbol that God is our strength and that Oklahoma would make it through this...that we would not crumble!

Camera Purchasing Tips From an Ameature Photographer

2010-02-17T09:23:00.000-08:00

A dear friend blogged about the need to purchase a great camera since hers just died :-( She is a busy mom of 3 sweet little boys and you MUST have a great camera to capture all the fun moments of life they have ahead of them!

I LOVE taking picture and I know how important it is to have a nice yet affordable camera that takes great pictures and won't break the bank! So, I sent her this information and thought...this might be helpful to other bloggers...Soooo....

Below are 3 recommendations I have...they're listed in order of cost from least to greatest :-) Canon Powershot SD1000 Elph- This is the one I bought before I went to India and I LOVE IT!!! It's small, takes fantastic pictures, lots of different settings to choose from, video, great zoom, etc.

I chose this picture so you could see the size

Canon Powershot G11- I saw this one in Malawi, my friend had just purchased it...it's not as cumbersome as the one listed below. It has great resolution, the distance that it can zoom is great, has video, an Lcd screen that flips out, and the list goes on and on...my friend that has this camera had a much larger camera when we were in Ethiopia and multiple lenses. She LOVES this one over her other camera...it was a Canon as well.

Canon Eos Rebel T1i This one is that my cousin Josh got for Christmas...it's fantastic...it's more on the semi-pro level...you can attach different lenses. It's a good size and a bit heavy but I was impressed with the pictures it took. I know lots of Mom's like to buy a great camera that will last through the years and grow with the needs of their children...My cousin Rhonda had one similar to this because she wanted good quality pictures and her boys play sports so she wanted to be able to zoom in and get nice clear action shots. Sometimes with a smaller camera, when you zoom, the pictures can come out a bit grainy.

Ok...I LOVE taking pictures...and these are the 3 I would suggest depending on how much you want to spend, your needs and size. If I were to go out today and pick one...I would get the Powershot G11...I think it's a great combination of the other 2...light weight, great zoom and all around great quality pictures! As you can see...they're all Canon...I'm pretty much sold...they make GREAT cameras!

Hope this is helpful.

Happy Shopping! :-))))

My Decorating Style

2010-02-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine had this on her blog and I couldn't resist tryin' it out!
Go to Sproost if you're curious to see what your design style is!
Sproost says my interior design style is:

40% French Eclectic

40% Classic

20% Nantucket Style

I think this is right on with the things that I like. I LOVE textures and all of these design styles offer lots of texture. I'm usually into neutral, warm and comforting colors but I'm open to brighter yet relaxing colors too.
I often find myself doubting my ability to have a home decorated in these styles because I automatically think...too expensive, but thanks to my friends that LOVE to go thrift shopping and garage saling...I don't think it's impossible!
Maybe the first place I'll start is my bedroom...since I am renting in a friends home...don't think she would want me taking over the whole house with my designs! LOL

Here are some pictures of the different design styles....LOVE THEM ALL!!!!

French Eclectic

Love the colors in this one (below)

Classic

Nantucket Style

Enjoy Finding your Design Style!!!

Running- Klaus Featuring Kari Jobe

2010-01-13T09:23:00.000-08:00

I hear the voice
It’s the voice of the One I love
He’s callin my name
I hear the voice
The voice of the One I love,
Hes callin my name
Hes sayin…
Come up higher
I hear the angels sing
Come up higher, my beloved
Come up higher and leave this world behind
I find you to be beautiful
I am running, running after You
Youve become my soul’s delight
I am running, running after You
Here with You I find my life.

It's been a long time.... but after hearing this song, I had to post and let everyone in on something that really ministered to my heart last night.
I heard this song during a prayer time at a friends church. It reminds me so much of God's relentless pursuit of our hearts. It's absolutely beautiful....enjoy, I hope it ministers to your heart as much as it did mine!

Ebates

2009-08-04T21:13:00.000-07:00

For my thrifty friends that enjoy great deals and money back Ebates is the site for you!!!
You get $5 for signing up and for referring friends! You also get money back on your purchases!!! Pretty sweet deal. Couldn't resist sharing this with you all.

Happy Shopping!

A New Hobby & Passion Ignited

2009-07-21T09:09:00.001-07:00

I LOVE photography and it's a hobby that I'm trying to refine every day. I'm also fascinated by the art of Editing and decided to try my hand at it. I started with the program that's on my computer (Microsoft Office Photo Manager), you know, since Photoshop is for PROS and costs an arm and a leg! After editing a few, I posted some on my Facebook. Some friends informed me of some free on-line editing so I'm trying those out as well.

If you like Photoshop, GIMP is a free download that is VERY similar to it.

Then there's Picnik, VERY user friendly and with one click of a button, your photo is changed...you can also combine different effects to get the picture just like you want it! Below are some of my creations...I don't have any from GIMP yet because I need to watch the tutorial first :-)

These were edited with Picnik

These were done with Microsoft Office Photo Manager

Some of My Favorite Pics from Around the World

2009-06-30T19:11:00.000-07:00

~London~

~Ethiopia~

~India~

The Taj Hotel that was attacked in January 2009 and guests were held hostage. That happened a year after I visited.

Another Opportunity to Win!!!

2009-06-21T15:59:00.000-07:00

Check out these adorable things and you may even win some!!!

My Sweet Savannah

Enter to Win!!!

2009-06-10T22:40:00.000-07:00

If you LOVE these items that I have showing here...you could be the winner of a Gift Card to purchase these things....Check out the FUN giveaway Here!

The Lion King

2009-05-03T17:30:00.000-07:00

Becca & Kristy came to the City to go to The Lion King with me...it was sooo much fun. We were really looking forward to keeping with the African theme and enjoying some Ethiopian food afterwards...UNFORTUNATELY, Queen of Sheba is closed on Sunday...can you say 3 very disappointed girls :-( Instead we went to Zorba's Mediterranean food. It was VERY delicious. On Saturday nights they have belly dancers...we've already discussed a Saturday that they can come and have Ethiopian for lunch and Zorba's for dinner and belly dancing!!! Ha!

Thanks Ladies for such a fun day!!! Love and Miss you TONS!!!

Fun Times at the Arts Festival!!!

2009-05-02T19:30:00.001-07:00

Last Sunday I HAD to go to the Arts Festival...which, let's get real, no one really goes there for the art unless they plan on dropping a couple grand on a tiny piece of art! The real reason everyone rolls out is for the DELICIOUS fair food! I had some amazing Indian food and Strawberries Newport...Mmmm MMMM! Which I totally forgot to take pictures of, probably because I was too worried about my food flying away due to the tornadic winds we had! The picture below is a great shot of us walking against the CRAZY wind...it was unbelievable!

Yup...that's right...we laid down on the sidewalk downtown...probably a bit dangerous considering we don't know what's been on those sidewalks!!!

Sunday was the Oklahoma Memorial Marathon in Memory of what happened 14 years ago...here are a couple of unsuspecting participants :-)

I love this picture that I took of Jen...I really like how it turned out!

This couple was the BEST Art that we saw at the Arts Festival...sooo sweet...we couldn't resist taking their picture!

Hope you enjoyed looking at these pics. We had a great time taking them! I love the Downtown shots...sooo fun.

2009-04-27T13:16:00.000-07:00

Went to Ryan & Kerby's for burgers and fun. Had a great time just hangin' out with new friends and eating delicious food...strong work on the burgers guys!

No wonder she held onto that mug all day and she was soooo "cheery"! LOL

Love 146

2009-04-27T13:00:00.000-07:00

I came across this blog on a friends site. It's a topic very dear to my heart and have had opportunities to minister to young women rescued out of this form of slavery. I hope you're informed about what's going on in our country and around the world regarding the topic of sex slavery.

Cuppies & Joe

2009-04-26T20:59:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite places to visit in OKC...Cuppies & Joe. Delicious cupcakes and a variety of drinks from Iced Green Tea to Latte's and of course a nice cup of Joe!

A storm rolling in...it was GORGEOUS

Sally with her Cuppie & Joe

Easter Weekend

2009-04-26T20:53:00.001-07:00

Had a great weekend with friends and family. Got to go to my church that I miss soooo much and see friends that I haven't seen since I moved. Sweet time. I got to see my niece wearing the dress I got her from Ethiopia...she looked soooo cute! It rained a ton, so no easter egg hunt outside :-(

My brother Adam & his little girl Catrina

Uncle Burt, Aunt Pat & Nana

For my Mommy Friends

2009-04-06T21:59:00.000-07:00

I saw these ladies on Oprah today and they CRACKED me up!!! Thought I'd share their blog with you so you could get some laughs, relief knowing you're not alone, questions answered and just a refreshing read...Hope you like it!

You all are phenomenal women and I'm continually blessed by your examples of godly mothers.

Love ya!

Ready for Spring

2009-03-28T20:29:00.000-07:00

So, it's spring but there's snow today?!?! I'm READY for Spring...life returns to nature, grass is green, the flowers bloom and it leads to Summer, my favorite season of the year! Here's a few pictures of my favorite flower, the Tulip! They put a :-)on my face.

Charged and Ready to Go!!!

2009-03-26T13:30:00.000-07:00

I won my e-bay auction and I FINALLY got my camera battery charger in the mail today!!! Wooo HOOO!!!! I can start downloading pics and update my blog :-) I'll start that tonight when I get home from work!

I'm sooo glad to get my camera back :-)

My Sweet Niece

2009-03-14T22:21:00.001-07:00

Love her!!! On my birthday my mom called and while I was talking to her she asked Catrina if she wanted to tell my happy birthday, so...Catrina gets on the phone and in her little raspy voice, sings her own version of Happy Birthday...it was SOOOO STINKIN' CUTE!!! I just love her to pieces and would hug her forever if she would let me!

Tulsa State Fair with Cora!!!

2009-03-14T22:08:00.000-07:00

I told Cora that I would take her to the State Fair and I TOTALLY forgot when the day came...I remembered around 7pm and called her parents to see if I could still take her...I didn't want to let her down. They said sure, so I picked her up and we jetted to the Fair. We had a great time. Cora had her first Funnel Cake and we rode the swings. It was a fun time for the 2 of us! Love you Corky! :-)

Farwell Tumlison's...We'll Miss You!

2009-03-14T22:00:00.000-07:00

The Tumlison's are off to Honduras. We had a nice farwell party at the Cupp's house. It was a house full of friends that are like family, really and lots of kiddos!!! It was a nice time together. We had prayer time for them followed by a tearful goodbye for me. Love and miss you all TONS!

A Couple of My Favorite Little Girls...

2009-03-14T21:51:00.000-07:00

I always have a blast hanging out with these cuties! They're soooo much fun to be around and they ALWAYS make me laugh!
Grace makes her Auntie Alecia feel so loved and Sophie just cracks me up with her personality. My friends have some adorable little girls! They melt my heart frequently.

One of My FAVORITE Places to Be!!!

2009-03-14T21:35:00.000-07:00

Amy and I took a little trip to Norman to walk around Campus Corner. It had been a while since I'd been to Norman and there's always great shopping and fond memories! We spent a LOT of time here in our college years...a couple of great memories I have are: going to LOTS of games, camping out for OU/TX tickets, at the spur of the moment, deciding with Amy, Kenny & Kestle to go get tickets from a scalper for the Rolling Stones concert, ESPN Game Day in Norman the day we beat Nebraska and the goal posts came down, welcoming the National Championship team home from the Orange Bowl after an undefeated season, and many, MANY more memories. Good Times...good times!

Playing a little game of Catch Up....

2009-03-14T21:22:00.000-07:00

So, I've been sooo bad at blogging lately. In the move I misplaced my camera cord as well as battery charger. That's no excuse for the 3 months I missed in blogging before I moved :-) So, this afternoon I found my camera cord and used what juice was left in my camera to download some pics...now it's time to get caught up! :-)I'm bidding on a battery charger on ebay so hopefully I'll be able to charge my battery and start taking some more pictures!

I'll start with my visit to Edmond for Grace & Sophie's 1st & 4th Mickey & Minie B-day party. The kids all wore their PJ's and watched a Mickey movie on the lawn. There were Mickey ears, popcorn and cotton candy for the kiddos.

25 Random Things About Me!!!

2009-02-25T17:14:00.000-08:00

1. I love to watch Sooner Sports...especially Football
2. I have a fetish for linens...towels, sheets, decorative cltoh, etc.
3. I have a ridiculously adorable niece
4. I have 3 younger brothers
5. I HATE MOVING WITH A PASSION and I've moved twice in the last 2 months!!!
6. I found a church I LOVE and had to leave b/c of my new job.
7. I can watch a movie that I love over and over again.
8. I cry at Hallmark commercials, movies and anytime someone else cries...I'm a cryer
9. I LOVE to decorate
10. I was born in Alaska
11. The best summer of my life was when I lived in North Myrtle Beach for Summer Project in '97 and met a GREAT group of people that ALL have a special place in my heart.
12. I love to travel.
13. The 3 Farthest places I've been are China, India & Ethiopia
14. I've never been to Mexico
15. I love that I can be on Facebook or Skype and talk to my friends around the world.
16. My favorite icecream is Braum's Peanut Butter Cup...DE-LISH!!!
17. I twirl my hair when I watch T.V....and only when I watch TV
18. I collect Crosses
19. I LOVE Tulips
20. I don't listen to the radio anymore...just my CD's
21. I love movie night with my friends.
22. I HATE saying goodbye
23. I Love being surprised and doing the surprising
24. I watched Titanic a ridiculous amount of times in college.(And cried every time)
25. I love being Auntie Alecia to my friends children...it makes me :)

I'm Employed!!!

2009-02-08T19:23:00.000-08:00

It's official....I'm moving to OKC to work with Arvest Bank as an Assistant Branch Manager. I'm excited about this for many reasons...going down a completely different career path, great opportunities to grow, I really like my Manager that I'll be working with, I'll be living 4 miles from my dear friend Amy and just 10 or 15 from my childhood friend Erika!!! I can't WAIT!
That's the latest update for now...I'll take pics of my new apartment when I get moved and settled in :-)
Thanks for all your prayers during this challening transition and for all the help you all exteneded me during "the Hunt".

Ethiopia Blog

2009-01-24T13:27:00.000-08:00

I've been working on my Ethiopia Blog and it's still a work in progress but you can check out what I have so far...just know...there will be more updates in the near future:-)
Enjoy!

Unemployeed Girl Seeks Employment With Stable Company....

2009-01-16T14:11:00.001-08:00

That's right, for those of you who don't know just yet...I lost my job almost 5 weeks ago.
I had the opportunity to work for an AMAZING non-profit...that was the down side...they had NO-PROFIT!!! Unfortuantely, due to the economic crunch, funding had dropped significantly and they had to let 3 of us go :-(
So, here I am...taking a break from Job hunting to fill you all in.
I trust the Lord has a great plan for me and I'm really looking forward to this new chapter in my life that He's writing...just wish I could get an advanced copy of His book on Alecia :-)
Well, keep me in your prayers and I'll keep hitting the pavement, running toward that new place God has for me.

From Ashes to Africa

2009-01-14T11:35:00.000-08:00

Thanks to a friend of a friend, I was able to see this amazing website, From Ashes to Africa. For those that are interested in adoption, this could be very encouraging to you and those who never thought of adoption, this could be a new perspective for you.

Ephesians 1:3-6
3-6How blessed is God! And what a blessing he is! He's the Father of our Master, Jesus Christ, and takes us to the high places of blessing in him. Long before he laid down earth's foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love. Long, long ago he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. (What pleasure he took in planning this!) He wanted us to enter into the celebration of his lavish gift-giving by the hand of his beloved Son.

Catrina Sings "Kinkle, Kinkle Little Star"

2008-12-12T12:43:00.000-08:00

This is my adorable little niece singing one of her favorite songs...Kinkle, Kinkle Little Star!
Love HER!!!

The Cutest Blog on the Block

2008-11-17T17:56:00.000-08:00

If you're lovin' my new layout as much as I am...check out

The Cutest Blog on the Block.

They have over 300 layouts to choose from.

I'm Back From Ethiopia!!!

2008-10-20T19:17:00.000-07:00

I'm finally back...I'll do my best to get some pics up soon...today was super long and my bags are still not in my possession...they're in Tulsa just not with me yet! I'll post as soon as I can charge my camera battery :-)

New Moon....

2008-09-15T18:36:00.001-07:00

I'm officially addicted to New Moon now!

This too, will be taking up a lot of my free time...

Yesterday was a GORGEOUS day...I came home

after church and opened the doors and all the windows

in the house, I curled up on the couch with book

#2 of the Twilight Series. I'm lovin' every page of it!!!

I highly suggest this series, but seriously,

read at your own risk...It is VERY ADDICTIVE!!! :-)

Twilight....

2008-09-11T22:52:00.000-07:00

So, this is what's been taking up most of my time lately...It all

started on my road trip to Minnesota with Leah and Emily.

Now...I work, go wherever I need to go next, then

come home and jump in bed with this ever so popular and

exciting book! I'm reading thelast few pages this evening and

it's off to "New Moon" the 2nd book in the 4 book series.

I'll let you know how that goes!

This book will be in Motion Picture this December, you can

check out a trailer here. I don't know if I'll go see the movie

because it may ruin it for me. they're using a bunch of

no-name actors and it'll probably end up being a cheesy movie.

We'll see, come November, if I'm singing the same tune.

The Olympics Are Over...so sad

2008-08-24T19:21:00.000-07:00

It's All over :-(

I've really enjoyed the excitement of

the Beijing Olympics. I've had many conversations

with friends about the SPECTACULAR Opening Ceremonies,

close finishes in swimming, Dara Torres competing at 41 and showing

great sportsmanship when her competetor had a torn suit,

Michael Phelps smashing world records and winning 8 Golds,

Shawn Johnson finally winning a much deserved Gold,

OU boy Jonathan Horton winning Silver-Boomer Sooner!,

Trampolining...who remembered that was an Olympic sport?!?

The women's & men's relay FINALLY getting it together and

winning after dropping the baton in the previous race,

and many more fascinating moments...I LOVED IT ALL!!!

It was all good...I loved every second of it and

I'll patiently wait for the London Olympics 2012.

Beijing Olympics 2008- One World One Dream

2008-08-10T21:54:00.000-07:00

The Countdown - 498 Days

This is me on the very steep slope on the Great Wall

While we were climbing, we kept seeing signs that said

"Sleep Slope Ahead"

You can't tell but I'm sporting my Olympic Gear- the Jacket

This was up high on a hill as we climbed

the Great Wall

The Opening Ceremonies- AMAZING!!!

Just over 500 days ago my excitement for the Olympics began...How do I know 500 days?!?!

I was in Beijing when the "500 days until the Olympics" mile marker occurred.

They celebrated with a bang that day too....fireworks and all!

We were in Tiananmen Square where they had a HUGE countdown displayed.

I climbed the Great Wall of China and saw the Olympics slogan for the first time...up close and personal- One World One Dream 2008.

Val and I bought our semi matching Olympic Gear.

Great memories.

Well....to no surprise, China out did themselves with the opening ceremonies...I was in AWE the entire time. Nothing short of Spectacular!

This is a fantastic time of year....thousands of people from around the globe, all in one place, to compete...they're the best of the best in the entire World. Makes for very intense & exciting competition!

Enjoy. Go USA!

Lovin' every minute of the Olympics!!!

2008-08-10T21:49:00.001-07:00

The Men's 4 x 100m Relay, one word....INTENSE!!!!

So the Frenchies decided they would do a little smack talk...

I say...BRING IT ON!!! The Men's relay team said the same thing

and kicked some France tail!!! I've NEVER been more excited about

swimming in my entire life! It was the most exciting race I've ever witnessed and

I do believe it made history, I know they demolished the World Record.

You can read more about this exciting relay here.

I'm certainly addicted to the Olympics this year...be ready for me to post

NUMEROUS times before the closing ceremonies.

An Old Passion Reignited...

2008-07-29T22:12:00.001-07:00

I'm a week late posting this but for good reason. I've taken up a new hobby, well, it's not all that new actually. I was given a camera at the age of 5 but was never really taught the ins and outs of photography. I've ALWAYS LOVED taking pictures, but they never quite turned out how I hoped. In January, I FINALLY bought a digital camera before my big trip to India. That's where my passion for photography was re-ignited.

I've also been blessed with a roomie that knows exactly what she's doing when it comes to taking photos. She happens to do it on the side as a hobby/business. I've learned a LOT from her this past year just watching her and seeing the different angles, learning the 3/4's rule, etc. I wanted her to come out and take pictures of Amy and the girls...she said "Alecia, you totally have the eye and technique, you just need to borrow my camera!" So, she graciously entrusted me with her VERY expensive camera to shoot some pics of the girls.

We headed out to Woodward Park and I was snapping away.

"Now, why does that make you take a long time to post?!?!" you ask.

Well, Andreia (the roomie) has also been teaching me how to edit photos with photoshop. I've been editing a few pictures every night.

Here are just a few of my favorite girls in photos:

The Lee Wedding

2008-07-23T21:25:00.001-07:00

Me & the flower girl Nina (another

one I babysit)-

She's got the awkward

smile going on.

Laura, Nina & Chris

Kim & Lawrence

Congratulations!

Planting Flowers

2008-07-23T21:15:00.000-07:00

I've wanted to make my front and back porch

look pretty, soooo I enlisted my very talented

friend, Leah & her adorable daughter, Cora

to help me pick out pots and flowers.

Our day started with a pedicure, then went to

Lowe's & Wal-Mart for pots and flowers.

Cora helped me put the soil in the pots

Leah worked her magic planting the flowers

The Finished Product

I took this picture- I LOVE the morning

sun on my plants...It makes me smile every morning!

"Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples." John 13:35

2008-07-23T21:05:00.000-07:00

Matt wanted to get together for prayer

one more time before the group went their

separate ways.

Joel, Katy, Inez, Christine, Matt & I got together

and just talked about areas we needed prayer.

We took turns sitting in the middle of the

group and prayed for one another.

It was a sweet time.

Inez, Christine, Matt, Katy & Me

Hair Update!!!

2008-07-23T21:01:00.000-07:00

It's official...I've gotten addicted to

experimenting with my hair.

I got it cut a little shorter and added highlights

Just added to the Sassy!

Lunch with a Dear Friend

2008-07-23T20:54:00.000-07:00

Donna & I met and college and she's been

a GREAT friend and an amazing spiritual

confidant. I can count on her to be my

prayer warrior. She's an amazing friend,

great wife and mother. Thanks for the example!

Donna K & Grant

Grant- Mischievous

Donna 4 DAYS before delivering....

Crazy, I know!

Keeping With Tradition

2008-07-23T20:46:00.000-07:00

This is where it all began

Retreat- The Newbies go to Sonic and hang

out in Matt's truck- Each year at

Retreat we try to make the same little

trip to Sonic

Three years later...we're all a little older

and a LOT closer

Thanks for the Memories Guys! Love you MUCHO!

The "Retreat"

2008-07-23T20:27:00.000-07:00

The Dude Ranch...don't hate!

International Night

Sheba, Christine, Me & Babitha

In our India Garb

Cathie's reaction when she saw Lori

Cathie & Lori

Every year we have our annual work "retreat"...we seriously need a vacation after the "retreat". This is when we welcome the new Interns and the 3rd years graduate and move on to the real world or mission field. It was a fun time...I didn't get much sleep but it was great to relive fun moments shared and meet up with old friends. Lori, who started at Image the same year the 3rd years started, moved to another program 7 months into their first year. She and I had maintained our friendship and we decided to surprise everyone with her....that was such a hard secret to keep!!! But worth it.

It's a sad time, having to say good bye to my friends that will be scattering all over the world. I'm blessed to have had them in my life for a season.

Blessings to you all as you pursue God's call on your life.

Christine is MARRIED!!!!

2008-07-23T20:20:00.000-07:00

The Bride & Groom

Christine and Andrew

You might recognize that girl singing if you

watched American Idol last season,

that's Alaina Whitaker- best friend of the bride

The Girls- Cara is in the yellow, sister of the bride

Cara told Andrew in her toast that they're a package

deal- he not only gets Christine but they come with her

I thought that was cute.

Congrats Christine & Andrew!

Seriously.....I'll Post for Real....SOON!!!!

2008-07-11T07:00:00.001-07:00

I know, I know....I'm totally behind on all my blogging...I've been super busy. But I had to share these two sites with you that I do believe I'm in LOVE with....all my creative friends will have a hay day looking at these sites. The first on is from a photographer that I go to church with, Ashley Ann....she has lots of fun ideas for summer fun with the kiddos (If I had kiddos these are things I would do with them). She also has fun crafty things to do.

The other site is Design* Sponge, a fun DIY design site....soooo cute and full of clever ideas.

I do believe Amanda & Amy, in particular, will enjoy both of these sites!

Happy Browsing!

The Bachelorette Finale....

2008-07-07T13:40:00.001-07:00

GO JASON!!!

I have so many other things I need to blog about right now but.....
I'm SOOOO ready for the finale and I hope so badly that she picks Jason...he's so sweet and wonderful!

I'm having a girls night to watch the finale...talking during commercials ONLY!!! :-D My adorable friend Amanda, who by the way didn't watch the show until I was at her house one Monday night and I had forgotten to set the VCR (Yes I still have a VCR- I also have DVR but I don't get local channels on it- How crazy and ridicoulous is that?!?!). Needless to say, I've had numerous phone calls during commercials, and after each episode since! I LOVE IT!!! So, Amanda & I decided that we MUST have a girls night to watch the finale...I'll post pictures when it's all said and done.

Hope...

2008-07-02T22:16:00.000-07:00

At Bible study this evening our leader shared a story about the Stanfield family. Their story is tragic but hopeful which is something that only the Lord gives us...Hope within tragedy. I was very encouraged by this particular story and wanted to share it with others.

"Lord, give us wisdom not to waste this."

This speaks volumes to me. As Christians we will face many trials but don't waste those trials asking why me instead, get on your knees before the Lord and learn who He is in that trial or particular moment and allow Him to move in your life like never before.

<><

Fun In Edmond

2008-06-19T19:26:00.000-07:00

After the fun in the Asian District

I went to visit my sweet friend Amy

and her family in Edmond

The kiddos played on the water slide

Swung on swings

I brought Amy & Grace these

matching Vera Bradley Aprons

They both LOVE aprons!

Gracie & I baked Sprinkles Cupcakes

They were AH-Mazing!

I took the day off on Monday

and we went SHOPPING!!!

Some serious Damage was done...

good damage though.

Grace dressed herself in this adorable outfit

accessorized by the bangle bracelets

I brought back for her from India

Before I left I snapped a picture of the

Gorgeous Couple celebrating their 8th

Wedding Anniversary

Happy Anniversary!

I hit the road to head back to Tulsa...

I was bummed...it's hard going back

when you have such amazing friends that

make it hard to say goodbye to.

Love you guys!

The Asian Persuasion

2008-06-18T19:55:00.000-07:00

Some of the residents went to OKC for a scientific assembly. It ended Saturday so after work, Matt & I drove to OKC to meet up with them for a day of Asian Cuisine. Saturday Night we went into the Asian District of OKC for Vietnamese food and Boba tea. It was a night of interesting, yet delicious food.

Matt, Kyle, Jude & Vanessa

Mango & Strawberry Boba Tea

We ended our Asian Feast on Sunday morning with

Chinese Dim Sum

It was a very delicious and fun time together.

Welcome to IHI Interns!

2008-06-18T19:50:00.000-07:00

We had an ice cream social to welcome the new interns to In His Image Family Practice Residency. Here's the class of 2011!

Snipp, snipp!!!

2008-06-13T21:19:00.000-07:00

My hair was driving me NUTS!!! So....last week I scheduled an appointment to get my hair cut.

I told the stylist I had no clue what I wanted, I was just tired of my hair looking the same.

We talked about my options and here are the before and after pictures.

Before

After!!!!

9.5 inches...GONE!!!

Threw Another Shower

2008-06-07T19:10:00.000-07:00

I love throwing parties and everyone has caught onto that so I threw a shower last Sunday evening. Here are a couple of pics of the table.

Dinner with the fam

2008-06-07T19:07:00.000-07:00

Mom, Catrina & Fred
Cutie patootie!
I met my Mom, Fred & Catrina for dinner the other night. My niece is getting soooo big!

Lunch with the Fam

2008-06-07T18:59:00.000-07:00

Aunt Pat & My Great Grandma- Nana

Me & Rhonda

We're trying to do lunch, just the 4 of us once a month. I love these ladies to PIECES!

Keep Rhonda in your prayers- she has surgery on Tuesday.

I Finally Got Curtains!!!

2008-06-07T18:57:00.000-07:00

Baby Harrison...

2008-06-07T18:39:00.000-07:00

Harrison- 9 lbs. 21.5 in.

He's Pre-K size! :-D

Precious little boy

Proud Mama- Cristin

My friends Joey & Cristin welcomed their adorable little boy into the world.

They didn't know what they were having and they kept the name a secret until he was born!

I LOVE the name they picked out for him!

Congrats guys!

I'm Finally Caught Up!!!

2008-05-29T22:14:00.000-07:00

Ok...it's 12:15am and I'm finally caught up on allllll my blogging....

I'll try to stay on top of it more.

So get to reading...you have lots of catching up to do! ;-D

<><

Catrina

2008-05-29T22:11:00.000-07:00

I Love her and her crazy curls!

Back From Burma!!!

2008-05-29T22:05:00.000-07:00

The team arrived Sunday morning at 7:45- they were greeted with cheers from friends & family. Everyone was healthy but tired. It was sooo fun to welcome them home and hear a few stories before the news crews nabbed 'em!

A little blurry but very Armageddon- like!

She was sooo happy to see him.

The whole fam.

Met with News Crews Again....

Blair & Aaron being interviewed

by channel 8's Burt Mummolo

Dr. D being interviewed

Anya- 1 Week Old

2008-05-29T22:02:00.000-07:00

Precious

Baby

Sleep

Risk

2008-05-29T21:53:00.000-07:00

Every other Sunday is Risk at the Duininck's house. This is a time for the kids from their church and school to get together and talk about the Word and just have fun. This was the first weekend the team to Burma was gone so Leah explained to the group what had happened there and we had a prayer time for the team. These kids are fantastic and their prayers were lead by the Lord and sincere.

Sammy wanted me to take pics of him in mid air off the diving board...the trend continued to several of the other kiddos.

Megan, Hanna & Victoria

Sam

Levi

Cora

Megan, Hanna & Victoria

Welcome to Tulsa Kris...Oh, and Happy Birthday

2008-05-29T21:47:00.000-07:00

Kris is an incoming intern...he begins residency on July 1st. He and his adorable wife, Nicole moved to Tulsa on Saturday and had everyone over for a cookout that evening...and can I tell you, their entire house was unpacked and fully decorated with paint and all...UNBELIEVABLE!!!

Kris has just about every wii game there is and he got 4 steering wheels for Mario Kart...we all got into that game- toddlers and all!

Kris & Nicole with the Cupps little boy

Off to Burma

2008-05-29T21:36:00.000-07:00

As you probably know a Cyclone hit Burma on May 3rd and wiped out millions and their military regime was preventing aid for the people. Through a divine connection my boss was invited to come with a disaster relief team. They left on May 16th. We had the most amazing prayer time after work on the 15th...the Holy Spirit was moving like I've never felt before.

Keep the Burmese people in your prayers....they are really suffering right now.

Dr. D & Leah

(Dr. D's dad & Mom praying over the team)

The Team

The team was met at the airport by news crews

Sammy's Soccer Tournament- Edmond

2008-05-29T21:16:00.000-07:00

Leah texted me and asked if I could go with her to Sam's soccer tournament in Edmon a couple of weeks ago. He rocks...that kid can ball like nobody's business.

Sweet story...the Duininck's always pray with their kids before their games. We dropped Sammy off and Leah was trying to get to where she could pray with him. He said "I'll find you before my game starts" She said, "Promise?!?" Sammy, "Promise". So the game's about to start and here comes Sam running through the opponents team and across the field...the people in the crowd were like "what does he want?!?!" Leah said "I know what he wants!" And got up and prayed with him...it was sooo sweet. After 80 mins. of ball...they tied. In a tournament, that's good. Their team advanced to the next round. Strong work buddy!

We ended the afternoon on some delicious sushi at Fuji in Edmond. Good Stuff!

Sam comin' for pre game prayer!

Sammy doin' what he does best!

We'll Miss You Rosie....

2008-05-29T21:12:00.000-07:00

Rosie's last day in the office was Friday...we are all sooo bummed. She's pursuing a dream though and we support her. We'll just miss her sweet spirit and silliness around the office.

We all got together for lunch that day and surprised her with a beautiful wooden craft box fully stocked with colored pencils, paints, brushes & sketch pads. She was moved to tears. Love ya girl!

Hangin' with the Kiddos!!!

2008-05-29T21:03:00.000-07:00

All of my friends have the most precious children...I'm sooo blessed to get to hang out with them and just watch them grow into these unbelievable creations. They're so sweet, clever and just a joy to be around. They love like no other- it makes me feel so special to be their Auntie Alecia or as Linda says "Tia Alecia"- she's half Honduran. :-)

Christian & Linda

Christian's Brother Nathaniel- love that smile!

Christian to Alecia: "Come oonnnn!"

Baby Shink is here!!!

2008-05-29T20:59:00.000-07:00

Sasha & Irina welcomed their sweet baby girl, Anya

into the world on May 20th! She is PRESH!

I love this family- the love the Lord sooo much

and they are crazy about this baby!

They are going to be the most wonderful parents!

Congrats Sash & Irina- She's beautiful!

A Mother's Day Like None Other

2008-05-29T20:44:00.000-07:00

Mother's day was a bit different for me this year. We all gathered at

my aunt & uncle's new house. After grillin' out...my brother spotted Uncle Watt's

ATV and wanted to ride. Well....I've always ridden on the back and I wanted

to learn, so when he was done taking Catrina for a spin, he showed me how it worked.

I got on in my gaucho's and hot pink flip flops, clearly ATV apparel, and took off down the street. It was a lot of fun...I will definitely do it again. Adam asked if there were some fields to drive through and after we didn't see if for a while we decided to get in the car to look for him...Needless to say, it was a typical Adam moment...he's up to his knees in mud trying to get it out. After a couple of failed attempts we finally got him out.

We spent the rest of the afternoon trying to find my mom & step dad a new house....we're getting close. Hopefully soon.

Happy Mother's Day to all you moms out there.

Thanks to my amazing Great Grandmother Nana (85 yrs. old) for raising me and investing her life into me. I wouldn't be the person I am today if it weren't for her never ending sacrifices.

Love you TONS!

Nana & Catrina

Mom & Catrina

Adam & his daughter, Catrina

Adam teaching me how to drive a 4 wheeler!

That's right...how many of you were doing that

on mother's day?!?

My brother after we pulled him

out of the mud

Chillin' after the big mess

Volunteer Appreciation Day

2008-05-29T20:38:00.000-07:00

As you know I work for a free mobile clinic....

Well we couldn't function if it weren't for our amazing & faithful

Volunteers. It's my one big event the I plan every year to honor them.

We have it out at my bosses house and they have the most beautiful

property. A small lake, beautiful walking trails, fire pit, etc.

A few of the docs I work with decided to take the paddle boat

out on the lake. They started out like this...but by the time

the trip around the lake was over, they were all in

different spots....they switched place 3 times while out

on the water- AND NEVER FELL IN!!!!!

We ALL know if I was in that boat....we would've been

overboard if I was trying to switch places...I'm such a clutz!

It turned out to be a great evening and the volunteers were very appreciative

of everything....we just LOVE them! Thank you Volunteers

for your servants heart and love for the underserved.

Breakfast Smoothies by Cora

2008-05-29T20:31:00.000-07:00

My roomie & I had a sleepover with Cora...I just love

this girl. She's a ton of fun and sweet as sugar.

It was the first Saturday I got to sleep in in a while.

When I got up Cora & Andreia made

Breakfast smoothies....YUMMY!

I watch Cora & her brother Levi

when the rents are out of town/country

so I'm gonna try once a month to have her over

for girls night.

Hanna's Prom

2008-05-27T22:15:00.000-07:00

Leah asked me to help set up for the after prom party at her house....before that we went to take pictures at the pre prom party....Hanna looked GORGEOUS and her adorable date, Charlie was soooo handsome.

This picture looks like they're standing in

front of a back drop but they aren't

this was someone's back yard

Hanna & Leah

"No...he's cute!"

I've been experimenting with different

angles...I love how this pic turned out.

The little house where the pre prom party was

Presh!

Daisy watchin' as we set up for the after prom party.

It looked GORGEOUS out there. We had candles going up the steps,

tables with white table cloths and candles on them, tikki torches

and flowers. I didn't get any pics after we were finished.

I was sooo glad to be done, I just wanted to sit down and

totally spaced takin' a picture of the finished product.