Crazy Day!!

Well, it has been a crazy day. Actually it's been a little crazy all week. As we all know the economy is "in the toilet", and it's affecting many people and their jobs. We were informed at my place of employment at Christmas that we were "financially sound, and everything is going to be ok." Well, that apparently, isn't true. Today it was announced about layoffs. Thankfully, I am still employed, but who knows for how long. Unfortunately, 7 coworkers lost their jobs today. 3 out of the 7 were in my department. I am floored, I NEVER saw a couple of these people who were laid off coming, and to be quite honest, I figured I would be one to get "the boot". I have never worked anywhere where layoffs occurred, and I have been pretty stressed all week. I know we are supposed to let God take control, and I really have tried, but human nature just takes over sometimes and causes you to worry. This afternoon has just been like a bad dream that you can't wake up from. I am SO thankful to God to still be employed. We just really need to pray for ALL people who have lost jobs, and those that will be losing their jobs. People are losing jobs all around me, and I know they are with people you all know, too. I really don't know where we are headed, but it's time to start praying harder than we've ever prayed before.

Stand By Me

My friend, Lee, sent this video to me, and it is the COOLEST thing ever. I'm sure you all remember the song "Stand By Me". This is the neatest arrangement of this song. Please take a moment to watch it!! I think you will really like it!!

Everybody Knows Your Name!!

Who would have ever thought that the theme song from a show about a bar, known as "Cheers", would have worked for a church!!! Sure enough, it does, and makes complete sense! Thanks to our Media Team at church for being so creative to put together videos such as this! Enjoy!

"Who Am I"

Wednesday night at church, I was blessed to be a part of something I never EVER dreamed would happen in my life. That was to sing with a group on stage at church! Ever since I moved to Nashville, the things I've gotten to do musically have just been a blessing from God. Singing has ALWAYS been my passion, and I never had an outlet to use it until I moved here, and began singing on a Praise Team at church. It's funny because I hear often from lifelong friends, and sometimes, even family, "I never knew you could sing like that." Well, it's not something I "flaunt" because God is the one who gave me this talent, not Julie, and I was always so shy and scared to death to ever do anything much in public, other than just sing in chorus throughout my school years. I never in a million years dreamed that I would be able to come to Nashville, and meet friends who have recording studios, and actually record in them, as well as sing in "groups". God is so good, and He just blows me away at the opportunities He gives me to serve through singing. Here is the video of our song "Who Am I" by Casting Crowns. I'm singing the duet with the lead, Jonas Weathers, who used to play saxophone with Louise Mandrell. I hope you all enjoy it, and just ignore me because ACK! I look like a goofball! haha! I hope you are blessed by the song!

Jill's Mom!!

I received word today that a dear friend, and old roommate of mine from Harding's, mom passed away with cancer. Jill, I hope it's ok for me to write this blog. :-) My heart is heavy for anyone who loses a parent, but especially when they are fairly young. Someone in their 60's passing away seems "too young" to me, but then again, who am I to question God? I really am not looking forward to the day my parents pass away, but I know that time is coming, and I am just thankful knowing that it will be not be "goodbye" when they do pass on, but just "see you later!" I cannot imagine not having the hope of Christ when a loved one dies. My prayers are with you, Jill, and your family! Love to you all!!

The Story Of Sully!!

If you get a chance, please watch this video. It will make you THANKFUL for having healthy kids in your life. This is a friend of mine's nephew. The video is very moving, and serves as a great reminder that children should NEVER have to go through these things, but I know one sweet day they will never have to go through it ever again. Having a niece with major heart and vision problems hits home, but even she has not had to deal with cancer. Please take a moment to thank God if you are blessed with healthy children because many of us don't know what these parents and kids endure! God Bless! I can't get the video to post, so just click the link below.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eL5i6Q1mgEU

Ringing In 2009!!

So how was everyone's New Year's Eve?? I had a fabulous time with great friends, who have become more like a second family. To the world's standards, our New Year's would have been a boring one. Funny how we don't need alcohol to bring in the New Year, or act crazy for that matter. I'm crazy enough without that stuff! We played 2 games that I'd never heard of before, one is called "Apples to Apples". I don't really know how to explain it, but it's just hilarious, and lots of fun for a big group. The next game we played is called "Buzz Word". Another fun group game where you break up into two teams. We spent hours playing these 2 games, while stuffing our faces. A couple of us even made it to the "ball drop". Poor Dick Clark, he just looks pitiful. It makes me sad. Well anyway, I'm looking forward to 2009! I've made a few resolutions, as usual, but sticking with them is another thing. 2009....it seems like yesterday it was just the year 2000! Hope you all have a wonderful and blessed New Year's Day!! My day consists of nothing, nothing, nothing, and sleep! Sounds like the perfect day for me!!!!