dawg pics...

Buddy and Bo.....

Gracie and Daisy......

We just got back from a family work missions trip in Georgia. We left the day after Christmas and just got back. Whew! It was awesome, but I'm zonked.

I'm so thankful to read that many of you had lovely time celebrating Christmas. Ours was quite nice as well.

I love our new dawgs.

Did I tell you that Daisy and Bo are brother and sister?

Did I tell you that dawgs....ahem...errrrr.....ummmm....that a brother dawg can....ummmm...how do I say this?

BO COULD GET DAISY PREGNANT????

I mean it.

Deaner told me that today, and he doesn't lie about this stuff.

Oh, we didn't name the dogs.

The previous owner named 'em after the Dukes of Hazard.

I really love our new pets.

can you keep a secret?

We're getting the kiddos these 2 dawgs for Christmas. They are a dachshund/jack terrier mix - 8 months old - brother and sister. Deano is so excited. He has been wanting a dog for years.

Just had to tell some one.

Happy Anniversary, Baby! I got you on my mi-ind!

Today is one of my favorite days. Yup, it's the day I celebrate the day I married my babies' daddy, Dean Dean the butterbean. Other than the One who saved me from sin and Hell - Dean is my best friend. He makes me feel pretty and smart. He laughs at my jokes. He trusts me with my kiddos. He loves me like no other. The only time I really gross him out is when I brush my teeth, and trust me....I really am grody to the max when I brush my teeth.

For him...I have learned to cook and clean. I have started wiping my feet before I get in bed. I have put his jeans on hangers. I keep the living room clean. I would do anything to make him smile and feel less stressed out.

He mops and sweeps for me, and when the dishes start to overwhelm me....he washes them for me.

He shaved my legs for me when I was hugely pregnant.

He held my mother when she was overwhelmed with grief as she watched her father die. He brought my grandmother food when PaPa was ill. He loves my family, and it makes me smile.

I love that he has an excellent work ethic. I love - absolutely love - to hear him laugh. I love the way he holds both the kiddos in his arms after work and watches tv with them.

He gives the kids baths every night. It started when Andrew was an infant. I was a nervous momma, and cried at the thought of hurting him. He has continued the evening ritual since that night. He also dries and brushes Gracie's hair every night. Hey! I lay out the PJ's and get 'em dressed....

He loves this blobbidy blobbish awkward and goofy girl, and I just don't get it.

Thank you, Lord, for giving me a hottie and not a dork!

The Lord is gracious and knows me so well.

I could go on and on and on.....

Prince Caspian Trailer

Told ya I was gonna make a big deal about it...

Christmas 2005 was good and hard for me. Have you had a Christmas like that? I've had a few Christmas's like that. My family has experience a lot of death since my childhood, and sometimes the holidays for us we would secretly cry and worry how the other members of the family were doing more than just really enjoy the sweet meaning of Christmas.

Anyway, 2005 was the year of Katrina. I remember when it hit. I was on a Beth Moore retreat with some close friends. Her topic was love, and I remember during the sessions my otter side getting energized. I was ready to bump my love for others notch a level up a bit. You know, be a bit more thoughtful and considerate. Pursue people more. I dunno. Spread more of God's hope and love.

The second night of the retreat I got a call from Dean. He said that Katrina knocked out the power of his mom's trailer. Dean's mother (I'll refer to her as "Ma" the rest of the story) had COPD, and was on oxygen 24/7. She needed electricity to not just "survive" but to live. He told me he was going to pick her up and that she'd live with us for a while. This was all good to me. I felt like the Lord had prepared my heart to love Ma like I'd never loved before. I was determined to serve her and love her like Christ would love her. Dean left Friday on an 9 hour drive. Arrived in DeRidder (where his eldest sister lives) Saturday morning - in the wee hours - to drop off some emergency items to help his family survive. Picked up Ma and returned to Alabama Sunday. I returned Sunday as well.

She stayed with us from September to the end of November. During those short months my children were ill, and one time had to make a trip to the er with Andrew. I had unexpected (kinda serious) emergency surgery. My great-grandmother (who took care of me in my elementary years) died. My grandfather was in poor health. Ma was extremely ill as well. There were several trips to the er with her, many ambulance rides for her, and oh! The doctor and pharmacy trips. I was a wreck, and still feel like I failed loving her the way I should have. argh! And, here I go! I'm crying over it again. She was such a tough and wonderful woman.

It was such a hard season for me. Like I said, we took her to Louisiana. She didn't want to go back. But, we promised her that we would come back to get her in the spring. She needed to see her doctor in Louisiana. We were hoping to get more things in order here also for her to live with us. She really needed a hospital bed (she was sleeping in our living room recliner every night).

We found out that she'd taken herself off some of her medication when we arrived in Louisiana to drop her off with his sister. Her health declined rapidly that weekend. She needed care 24/7 after that. I cried over it, but we were forced to put her in a nursing home in LA.

So, a few weeks pass it was time for Christmas. I was so desperate for some hope, and a different way to view God. I know that it is so silly, but I read the Chronicles of Narnia books for some hope and encouragement. The movie Narnia came out that Christmas, and I remember praying in the car that it would be a great movie to bring me some sort of joy again. I needed to see Christ in a silly movie. I was so sad and needed to know he cared.

I loved th movie. I still do. Well, I haven't seen it since then. We thought the kiddos were maybe ready to watch it. So, we checked it out from the library. They weren't ready for it yet (the wolves made my boy jump out of his seat). So, we didn't see it all. We did show them the part where the children first meet Narnia. I cried.

He knows me so well.

Anyway, I needed y'all to know this because I just saw the Prince Caspian trailer yesterday. I'm probably gonna make a BIG deal about it. Prince Caspian definitely isn't my favorite book, but I'm still stoked about it.

We were not able to visit his mom again until Easter. Her health continued to decline. We made an emergency trip to Louisiana in May, and she went to be with our wonderful Maker while we were there. Her children surrounded her. Read her Scripture and prayed for her in her final moments. It was difficult and beautiful.

I miss her. She is so much fun to talk about, and we laugh about her lots. She was a hoot!

My PaPa (umm..pronounced paw paw), died this year. Christmas is going to be extremely difficult for my family. Please. Please pray for them this season.

I know many of us have loved ones that we miss so much that our heart aches for them. Isn't it wild that we miss them so much the day when we are celebrating the One that gives us life? I just thought of that.


Anyway, sorry for tone of this blog. Blame it on Yahoo for showing the Trailer this week.

I really love this blog world so much.

hmmm...This entry also makes me wanna get my sisters Sunshine, Regina and Emily and hug 'em real big. They were such a beautiful support for me then. They did all they could to help me live.

The Lord is so good to me.

Pics from today...

What have I done??!?

Okay, so, remember when both my kiddos broke their arms? Whew! It was indeed a rough time. And, during that time we really thought that we had found our dream home in Alabaster. So, that dream home not only had a fenced yard, but also a doggie fence pen thingie. So, we were honestly believing that Andrew would have a dog for his birthday. And, after the kid had surgery - ugh - he had such a tough time coming out of recovery that I'm pretty sure we told him he'd get a puppy for his birthday.

Well, we didn't get the home. No big deal, but there is no way we can have any animal in this house. No way.

We randomly have stray cats come lookin' for birds and chipmunks. I usually shoo them off or get paralyzed with fear that they will attack me. Seriously. It wiggs me out how they just stare me down.

Deano is great with all animals. His entire family fascinates me with there understanding of critters. Did I tell you that his sister found a deer on the side of the road. Put it in her car. Drove it to her home, and let it stay in her tub? I'm sure it was a fawn, but still! Someone reminded her that it was against the law or something. Anyway...it's fascinating, eh?

We see this cat, and at first I'm ready to shoo it away. Then Deano comments on how thin she is. I never ever notice this stuff.

never ever.

Okay. He got me. I gave the cat some left over sandwich meat. Dean gives her milk.

And, at first the kitty just ran away when we came. Oh, and if she did let you near her, then she definitely wouldn't let you touch her.

Beano worked with her, and loved on the girl. She started warming up to us.

This cat has added so much joy to our family. And, I'm totally fascinated by her. I love to watch her scratch trees and spaz out with shoe laces. Don't get me started on the kiddos. She loves them!! They call for her, and she follows them wherever they go.

Alright.

I have more stories, but I gotta stop now.

I am not a cat lover, but I really am enjoying this critter.

Come on! y'all should be proud of me!!

I'll post more pics soon....especially of my Gracie girl.



I dunno. I just feel like God answered our little prayer to get the kiddos a pet, ya know?

I'm such a mushy gushy.



seriously. I'm hoping she'll scare off any gross 'possums that come our way....

I just can't believe it...

My little man is officially 5 years old today. Say a prayer for my boy today when you think of him. He makes me smile so big.

I know you might hit me next time I see you, but....I forgot to tell you that he accepted Christ as his Savior in September. It was simple and sweet. He was sitting on his bed with his daddy before bedtime. Dean was reading the story of the men in the furnace, and it captured his heart.

I love that kid so much.

I'm back...not sure for how long...but, at least for today..I'm sayin' I'm back!

Oooo...my feet are so cold right now. I know. I should totally go get my socks on or at least walk less than 10 feet to get a blanket, right? WRONG! If I go get that blanket or those cozy socks, then I'll hafta pick up the kid's clothes on the floor and get me somethin' to drink. Ya know what that'd mean, my loyal peeps? That'd mean that there'd be no blog. I gotta blog.

Not sure what to blog about, but I just gotta do it.

Many things have changed since I last blogged on this site. Like, I totally have new glasses. And, I love them. Even my mom who HATES glasses thinks that these are stylish. She still doesn't like 'em, but she at least admits they are stylish. I think I resemble Cat Woman. Or a scary school cafeteria lady from the 1950s. Depends on the day. I mean, when I wear my hair net...I totally look like I belong in a lunchroom.

Also, I turned 30!! I'm not sure if any of you wigged out over being 3-0, but I was a bit nervous about it. I just believe that 3o was this age of boringishness and responsibility. I'm just not down with that, friends. Nope. I like to run away from those words. I mean, run fast. fast! But, my day came, and my sweet lover of a husband threw me an amazing party. It was more than amazing it was perfect. And, I gotta say...I'm likin' this age. It's been my favorite number. It hasn't been a month, but my stars! It's been a good month!

There's more stuff that's changed, but I don't wanna bore you with the details. Because, I'm 3o now and I'm determined not to bore the ones I love.

Sooo...

I'm having tons o' fun trying to figure out this homeschooling stuff. I mean, I stress out and beat myself up at times, but I'm totally diggin' it. Andrew is 4 (soon to be 5!) and Gracie girl turned 3 in August. So, right now we're just having fun. I love learning with them. I mean, did you know that a beaver makes a loud BAM sound with its tail in the water to warn the beaver family that danger is near? Okay, everyone knows that one. I'll think of one in a sec that you guys didn't know. Just wait.

Okay, I'm listening to this bluegrass station on my computer, and this song "Joleen" is playing. I don't remember the last time I heard this song, but I know it's been ages. I just know that I always sing it when my friend Carol talks about her friend in Florida Charlene. I sing Charlene instead of Joleen. It makes me laugh. Hey sunshine Carol! If you're reading this, then CALL ME and buy me CHOCOLATE RIGHT NOW!!!!

Anyway....

Does everyone know that I'm a coalminer's daughter?

My dad has worked in the mines as an electrician for...umm...forever. Yes, you can sing that song to me next time you see me.

I just recently have obtained this obsession for diamonds. I mean, if you know me at all you know that I'm not the jewelry wearing kind of girl. I'm not flashy, and I'm not really in need of sparkly things on me. Well, I do think I'd like sparkly body glitter, but I'm too thrifty to spend even a dollar on it.

It's weird. I was spending some time in prayer. And, in a quiet moment I saw this picture of a diamond. A diamond? I mean, seriously? A diamond? Sounds whack to me. I totally believe Christ is the diamond and I'm the greyish blobber blob.

I mean, I always picture me kindof blobbish. No real form. No real detail or sharpness. I don't know if any of you have a secret hidden ugly picture of yourself. But, that is my picture. And, I love that the mighty, strong and amazing Creator of all beautiful things would love this blob of a blob.

Never would I ever think of myself as a diamond of worth though.

It's a Biblical way of thinking though. I think. My great deeds are as filthy rags, yet He sees my clean and blameless. Like other bloggers have said...He sees Christ in me...

I just don't quite get it. I can't fully wrap my self-centered brain around this thought.

Rereading this blog is so difficult. It seems so basic, eh?

You know what I learned about diamonds? Again, something EVERYONE knows. They can only be sharpened by another diamond.

He is so lovely. So strong. And, I'm so stinking needy and desperate for a change in the way I think.

I love the thought of His truth washing the dirt off this jewel.

I'm not really sure I have explained this correctly.

It's kindof like that new white robe thought. I keep thinking "but I'm gross!!!"

Oh, Precious is the flow that makes me white as snow!

It's a thought that delights me, but I just don't quite get it.

As always - thoughts, quotes and Scripture are always always appreciated and needed.

Oh, and ya gotta just gotta scroll down this page and check out the pick on the very bottom of the page! It's gorgeous! You're gonna love it!

I remember holding my sweet son in my arms as a newborn baby. I don't remember if he loved to be held or if I just loved holding him. I think it was both. I remember singing to him, kissing his perfect cheeks, and I remember praying for him. I remember longing for the day to tell him about Jesus. "Let him know you soon, Lord." I've prayed it over and over again for both my kids. I know that a true relationship with my Lord and Savior will be the only thing that gives them hope and true peace in this rotten world. And, I've prayed for people to come into their lives to tell them this truth. Selfishly though, I have hoped that I could be there when the questions come.

Monday was a perfect example of this rotten world. I got caught up in myself. I fleshed out quite a bit. I was grumpy. I got anxious over a few things. I cried a bit over feeling inadequate.

Can I just say I hate days like that?

I fixed dinner, and was so overwhelmed with this frustration of my failures that I had to leave the kitchen without eating with my husband and kids.

I rushed to the master bedroom and shut the door. Somehow I ended up sitting in the shower. I thought about actually taking a shower. Usually that helps me shake off the tears, but this time I wanted to feel the tears on my face.

I struggled with my thoughts and prayed a great deal. I was determined not to leave that tiny bathroom until God showed up. Although, I did consider climbing out the window and leaving, but as I was about to make my escape I heard the kids outside the window. Back to the shower. I suppose He didn't want me to leave either. I just wanted Him to give me the grace to love on my kids for a few more hours - even though I didn't feel like it.

He did show up.

He gave me that peace that passes all understanding.

So, I went outside to watch the kids play for a few minutes. I told Dean-o that I was okay, and that he could go rest if he needed (he was up 'til the wee hours the night before).

It was almost bath time. Dean went to bed early.

Andrew was sitting on the floor. He looked up at me and asked my why Jesus had to die on the cross.

It wasn't eloquent like I imagined when he was a newborn in my arms. I fumbled quite a bit, and over explained myself more than I can express.

But, he listened. We actually talked about Salvation and the need for Christ's death for 45 minutes. It was both awkward and beautiful.

He didn't accept Christ as his personal Savior Monday, but I'm overjoyed y'all. I am actually about to boo hoo just thinking about it.

I will post more details of the conversation soon.

I just wanted to share an amazing story of God "showing up."

I really do have so much to tell about what He is doing in my life, but I'm just not the best at expressing these thoughts on paper or web.

Oh, and I also hate talking about Andrew and not my sweet Gracie girl. She is a gem, and I love that girl so much.

To me this post is just about how much God loves me, ya know?

He loves me so much, and I just don't get it, ya know?

It has been a sunshiney week over here. The kiddos have played outside lots. The garden has been worked on tons (by Rebekah Burroughs and Jeremy's wife, Regina...a wee bit from me). It has been great to watch the kids play. Dean graduates from SEBC next Friday. He took his final last Tuesday. We had a surprise luau (sp?) waiting for him when he got home. It was fabulous weather for it. I love love sunshiney days. What can I say? They put me in a sunshine silly willy mood.

But, right now it is raining. And, I gotta say that I love the rain. Not only is it healthy for the garden, but it is also healthy for me too. I enjoy looking out the window. I'm not really too much of a dreamer for the future. I just like enjoying the warmth of the sun or the leaves blowing in the fall. I need the rain though. I feel like it slows my thoughts down a notch or two, and makes me listen. It sounds so nice right now. The kids are taking a nap, and here I sit. Smiling and trying to just listen.

It really is hard for me to listen. I was talking to -G for a short bit this morning about it. It is so hard to know if I'm being honest with the Lord or if I'm just being manipulative. Can I just tell you how scared I am of my thoughts? I don't think I'm making much sense. I'm not sure how to describe it. I ache to be quiet with my Friend and Savior. I long to hear His truth, but I'm so afraid of interfering His thoughts. Any thoughts, Scripture or books you guys can bring is always appreciated.

Argh. Blogging my heart is so hard.

I'm with Michelle. I can't wait to be in Heaven. I'm tired of my flesh, fears and especially this world.

you can go here or there or both

So, I've created a blog for silliness. It is my place for my goofy side to go wild.

This place will be for my hopes, fears, and even moments of thankfulness for my King. I'm not sure why I feel the need to seperate the two. I think it is because that bench and flower pic is sooo pretty. I just want to sit and talk about God when I look at it.

Okay, ya need to go here if you wanna be exposed to the silliness.

Not sure what to say...

I'm totally not in a blogging mood. I just updated my site's look. The dog licking the face pic just takes away from the loveliness of the garden pic.

That is why I'm writing another blog.

Not that I've got anything against folks who let dogs lick their faces. I mean, I totally think that IS pretty gross. Sorry, lady with a corner. For real. I'm grossed out by that.

OH!

I gots to give a shout out to our Uncle Jeremy's blog. Please oh please! Check out that guy's blog! He truly takes blogging - seriously. He LOVES to make folks laugh. I know we all really enjoy making people laugh. It is a fabulous feeling when someone laughs at something funny you've said. Man, I love it when I make someone laugh.

Anyway, the other day the guy said that he wished he could have people read his blog in his living room just so he could hear them laugh.

So, read his blog. Send him a comment. Tell him the Shirley fam thinks he's hip. His wifey is a dear friend of mine too. I'm working on her getting a blogspot.

I heard baby birds chirping in my shed one day. Yup. Just one day. Haven't heard them since.

So, we really do have lots of birds in our back yard. It makes me happy. We've got 2 that fight A LOT. I call 'em Fred and Ethel. Dean just told me they were both male. I'm sure they are. But, they sure do hang out a lot. I've seen 'em together like all week. I might need to change the names to Joey and Chandler.

We have 2 little birds that are iddy biddy and the bravest of the birds. I mean, they come on the patio right up to our door!! Unbelievable, eh? So, I get all googley and research the net on Alabama birds. I find out they are House Sparrows. Yeah, that really should make me happy. I mean, I should be writing a blog on how He takes care of the sparrows and us too, right?

You wanna know what I found out about these sparrows?

They are aggressive and kill bluebirds.

That really really really upsets me.

Seriously, JVines with a corner, it bothers me.


I love blogworld.

This test totally shocked me!

You Are 48% Gross

You're more than a little gross, but probably no more gross than the average person. Maybe it's time to drop some of those disgusting habits that could eventually embarrass you!

How Gross Are You?

I totally thought I was grosser than average....Maybe I should've admitted to not clipping my toenails.

I really am gross y'all.

I saw Michelle did a test. Had to copy her. I just had too.


Soon to come...........

A blog on the life of Allison Shirley

and

A blog on the Shirley farming fun

and

A blog on my backyard birds

See, G? I'm trying to take the right steps in my disease!

Okee dokee.

Today I was reading G's blog. She totally challenges me to say no. We could talk hours about our troubles and consequences that come with this sickness.

She is taking steps toward freedom. It is exciting the risks she's taking. I ache to take the same adventure.

I need help.

I need a phrase to memorize to encourage me not only to say no, but also to do it with out giving an excuse. That is my biggest boo boo. Or, if ya got a verse that'll convict the mess outta me to say no, then that'll work too.

Anyone know of a word that rhymes with "excuse"?

I like to Steal Things....

Okay...I didn't take the pic. It's not me in the pic. I have no idea who is in the pic. I am a theif. or is it thief? anyhoo, I just googled nature adventure pics. I found this one, and it goes PERFECTLY with the quote and where I am right now. I like it lots.

“For as long as you can remember, you have been a pleaser, depending on others to give you an identity. You need not look at that only in a negative way. You wanted to give your heart to others, and you did so quickly and easily. But now you are being asked to let go of all these self-made props and trust that God is enough for you. You must stop being a pleaser and reclaim your identity as a free self.”

Henri Nouwen


So, I was reading Jennifer Vines blog a bit ago, and I absolutely love her quote from Rich Mullins. I started researching for some good quotes. This one was the winner.

Totally Not a typical Day in the Life of Alli Shirley

"It's difficult to think anything but pleasant thoughts while eating a homegrown tomato."

- Lewis Grizzard

I'm not quite ready for my "day in the life of Alli Shirley" blog, yet.
It will be soon, okay?

Just a few highlites of the day that I want to journal.

1. I saw a butterfly in my backyard today. I cannot tell you how much I love those little bugs or whatever they are. I will hafta journal on the reason I love 'em later.

2. I heard baby birds in our shed today!!! You have no idea how happy this makes me. Seriously, I'm tempted to write a blog on this right now, but I'm a bit too sleepy.

3. Rebecca Burroughs (some of you know her....ummm...some of you don't) came to my house today and brought me a lavender plant. Lavender is my favorite scent.

4. She also brought me some sort of 3-green powder that is TOTALLY NASTY looking. I added orange juice to it, and I drank all of it. It really wasn't that bad, but it sure was gross looking.

5. I drank hot tea and ate biscuits with jam with 2 girlfriends as our kids played in my yard.

6. Dean got a sammich that was too big from Roly Poly, and gave me the other half tonight. It was yummy bummy in my tum tum.

7. I'm stoked about our garden this year and home grown tomatoes. I can't wait!!!!!

8. The weather was perfect-o today.

9. God has been oh so good to me today. He is amazing, and knows how to love me. I am thankful for this sweet day.

You Are a Pinky

You are fiercely independent, and possibly downright weird. A great communicator, you can get along with almost anyone. You are kind and sympathetic. You support all your friends - and love them for who they are. You get along well with: The Ring Finger Stay away from: The Thumb

What Finger Are You?

"Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laiden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from ME, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30

I am in need of a different way of thinking. Ha! I guess we all have that need, eh? I know we all have aches and worries in our hearts. I know we have wounds from years ago that we'll think have been forgotten - until someone says something that reminds of of the memory that hurt us. Then the emotions come, and we can't stop crying or we can't unloosen the tight clenched fists.

If you were in a quiet moment with the Lord. If you were searching to find truth about these wounds and desiring peace. You are sitting in silence longing for the freedom that only He can bring.

And, in that silence you hear "Just live. Don't be afraid. Go where I am." And, the only vision you see is one of flowers. No people. No music. No animals (thank ya, Jesus!). Nothing but simple and beautiful flowers.

What would you think? What does He want? What are your thoughts when you hear those words?

I know my blog is a different tone than usual. Please don't worry. I'm not in a dark depression or suffering. I just hunger for truth about myself and my Maker.

Hope this blog doesn't wigg y'all out.

Oh dear!!

Please. Please. We really need to have a party soon. And, at this party - we need someone to volunteer to make this cake. Also, we will have forks and no plates. We will just sit this cake in the middle of us and eat it. Like we're starving or barbarians. Or both. Starving Barbarians. It will be fabulous.

I mean, just copy and paste this link on your URL thingie. Read the recipe.

Seriously. It has Nutella in the cake and icing. It also has 2 Tbsp Frangelico hazelnut liqueur in it. I don't even know what that is, but oh my word!!! I think I need some right now.

Here is the link to the recipe:

http://www.womansday.com/recipes/11443/chocolate-hazelnut-layer-cake.html?pl=

Please review the recipe and decide when this party can happen.

Okay, PA girl - you can bring your Strawberry Shortcake with milk dessert too.

Squeaky can bring the ice cream. You wondering why I picked her? I just like saying "Squeaky." Squeak. Squeak. Squeaky.

Do you see what Nutella does to me?

It makes me crazy!!

Okay, here is my 'Possum Slayer story. I originally wrote this on my xanga a while back. So, if you've already read it. Ummm...sorry. This is a post that was requested by a hot PA mamasita in LA. I tweaked it a bit for y'alls enjoyment. Hope ya like it!

This post is about animals, and how messed up they are. And, why I just don't like 'em.

But first...I must give a preface -

So, last fall was a rough season for the Shirleys. Daddy Dean was a bit busy with Children's hospital (and classes at SEBC, meetings and fellowships for church and more and more things which I could blog and whine about). Anyway, Dean was an on-call chaplain for the Children's Hospital Trauma unit. This was an amazing ministry opportunity. He loved it and God really gave him the strength to perservere with this service. I still am amazed at the stories he has told me. He worked there for 8 months. But, it was getting to much for the family. When he was on call for a weekend - he'd be gone ALL weekend. There were weekends where he would get 2-3 hours of sleep in 72 hours. Like I said, God gave him supernatural strength for this ministry. There are many other reasons why he had to quit, but that is definitely for a phone conversation or a chat over coffee. Not for me to blog about. Or at least not today.

There was one particular weekend that I am just aching to tell y'all about. It was one of those weekends where I think he got 3 hours of sleep in like 48 or so hours. You'll have to ask him for the details. When Dean is out during the wee hours of the morning - I tend to get a bit worried. My imagination goes out of control, and I totally wigg out.

Imagine this....

I'm sittin in the kitchen readin' some blogs at 12:15am-ish. I hear a loud noise outside. Sounds like someone is goin through my trash!! I look out my door, and I watch a(n) 'possum scurry through my back yard. So, I get loopy and start really wishin' my hunk were with me.


He wasn't. I had to get a plan. A plan of what to do in case the night crawler snuck in my home.

First, I had to get my kids safe. I put both of my sleeping children in our room....snuggled tight in our cozy bed.

Because I know that there is no entrance in our room that the punk can get through.

Second, I get weapons near the big bed where my darlings are sleeping. A can of Oust (just like Lysol) and a big metal baseball bat. I'm ready for ya, big boy....oh yeah, momma's gonna take care of her babies.

So, I'm thinkin' that the critter is going to come through the vent in the laundry room.

Have I told you that I don't know ANYTHING about 'possums?

Whew!

I start pumpin my scared self up to beat the mess out of an animal. I gotta think like a super hero woman. I gotta think like I'm a wonderwoman/Crocodile Dundee kinda gal. "You can do this, Alli ! You can kill and animal to save your babies!" I just keep repeatin' it over and over in my head. I think I even said it outloud a few times.

Then, I remember something I read one time in some book. These creepies play dead!!!

What if it is in my hallway playing dead?? Do I kill it while it's playing dead or do I walk over it? Seriously! What do I do? I mean, what if I walk over it and it wakes up? Oh my word. Just the thought of that scares the hoobeedooobie out of me! Ugh! Who needs a scary movie when you've got a 'possum in your yard??

Anyhoo, I call my mom at 12:35am-ish. Yes, I do. I was scared, my friends. She assured me that as long as my doors were shut that the beast couldn't get in my home.

Thank ya, Jesus, for the wisdom and patience that a good Alabama momma has!

So, I sneak back in my bed with my little loves. And, laugh at myself. I also think about how cool it would be to be a 'possum slayer. Alli Shirley the opossum slayer. How cool would that be?

Then, Dean-o calls at 1:32am-ish. He tells me of the serious conditions he's been dealing with. I am quiet and respectful. He then asks me how I'm doing. I told him about the monster outside. He laughed really really hard.

Sometime during the weekend I asked Dean about what to do if this happens again. He just laughed and reminded me of how sleepy he was.

This is just one of a gazillion animal creep out stories that I have.

Ya want more?? I gotta 'em, sweet friends. Just ask...I totally got more scarey aminal stories.

Bug Business

So, my kids are sometimes scared of bugs. I'm afeared that they got that nervousness from me. I do know several ladies who can handle the flutter of bugs and not even flinch. Not me. I am totally a flincher.

Well, it's getting to be summer time, sweet friends. The mesquitos are starting to wake up and visit my home. Ya see, I leave the door cracked while the kids are outside. I gots to do that so I can hear them while I cook or clean. ANYWAY, the stinkers have been sneakin' in when I am not noticing. My kids freaked out when it happened the first time. And, it was when we had company (of course). So, here's my big boy totally wiggin out over this bug. One of my friends told Andrew that the big mesquitos were our friends because they ate the bad little mesquitos (i didn't know that, did you?). Then, she suggested that we name him, Bob. That was last week.

Since then Andrew has been telling me that he loves his pet mesquito, Bob. Yup, he talks to the thing as it flies on the wall and in the light.

Last night I was in the laundry room. Andrew was in the kitchen. I hear him yell "someone killed my pet....Bob!!"

Luckily my husband is wise and educated on such critters, and told Andrew that no one killed Bob, but that the freaks...I mean, mesquitos.....don't live for very long.

As Dean is teaching this lesson to my attentive son we hear Gracie in the hall. Shouting "dere he is! Buddy! Dere his is! Hey, Bob!!" Andrew runs in the hall and exclaims "There you are, Bob! I knew you weren't dead!"

Today it was flying around and I coaxed him to go outside. Of course the kids were encouraging him all the way. "Go Bob! I know you can do it! Go outside with all your friends! Go Bob Go!"

Oh the adventures we have in the Shirley house.

I gotta feelin' y'all are gonna tell me to get my kids a pet.

The answer is "no."

ways to say the "n" word

nope.
no way.
yeah, um...no.
sorry, can't do that.
i'd love to, but - no.
lemme talk to my husband about that.
uh, probably not.
i just gotta say no.
that sound great...like a terrific opportunity-ministry-fun time-great idea...i really hate to, but i just gotta say...no.
no way, hosea!
i stink at that kindof thing. you really want me to say no.
no, but you know who'd be great at that? why don't you give "so and so" a call?

i asked dean.

these are his favorite ways to say no:

i ain't gonna do it.
no.
naw.
do it yourself.
probably not.
not gonna happen.
sounds great. lemme know when you're done.

the following aren't ways to say no, but just make me laugh.

person: you busy?
dean: depends on what you're asking.

person: can i ask you to do something?
dean: do i have a choice?


how do you say no? please. give me some tips or pointers. i stink at it.

dumb bunny

How in the world do I put my friend's links on my page?

argh.....

...feelin' like a dork over here...

I've spent like 3o minutes trying to figure it out.

argh...!

I agree with Graced. This was fun!

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

It's late and this is almost too silly.

Please let me introduce you to my silly son, Andrew. This was his hair-doo...hmmm..lemme think here....I reckon it was late December. His hair is cute and bushy in this picture. So, imagine 2 more months of bushiness and that was my son yesterday.

He got his haircut today.

It is short.

There will be a new pic of him soon, and possibly a story about him. Oh, and by the way - that is/was my daughter, Gracie, in the previous post screamin' her head off over *who knows what.* She's just like her momma. That's all I'm sayin.

Here's another embarrassingly easy recipe that I made Friday.

'Possum Fanny Cake

So, I'm all about buyin' a cake mix. Makin' the cake. Poking holes in the cake. Drizzling or drowning the cake with sweetened condensed milk and then putting some Cool Whip on top. It just works for me. And, the crowd loves it. Like, I'll get a white or yeller cake mix. Cook it according to what the great box tells me to do. Drizzle some o' dat sweet milk on top. Do the Cool Whip thing, and then sprinkle thawed out frozen coconut on top. The older folks LOVE this. Old people love coconut cake.

Soooo....

I did something a little different last night. Found a recipe in a cookbook that was similar but different.

I got a devil's food cake. Poked the holes when it was still hot...THEN I DRIZZLED IT WITH CARAMEL SAUCE that you'd usually put on ice cream.

I bought some Heathbars and pounded on 'em until they were crumbs. Mixed those crumbs with my Cool Whip.

And Whah Lah! I've got a yummy bummy cake for my peeps at church.

Back to the Opossum silliness.

So, animals really scare me. I don't trust 'em. I get all nervous and wigged out when any animal is near. I am fascinated by animals. I really love learning about them, but I just don't trust them. I could for real blog for hours about my issues with animals, but not tonight.

Just keep that in mind when I tell you the 'possum story, okay?

'Possum Tail Brownies

Having a day like she is?
Then you DEFINITELY need to read this blog, and make these brownies....

So, I made this awesome homemade brownie delight last week for my lover last week. They were amazing. Not only did they have all those ingredients that really make you feel like you've really made something...uh, homemade (like baking powder and cocoa), but they also had milkyways chopped up in 'em. They were amazing.

I needed to make a dessert for the Superbowl party. Didn't want to make 'em homemade again. Too much mess.

Here's the new recipe for y'all...

Alli's 'possum Tail Brownies
1 package of the cheapest Brownie mix (you're gonna need the ingredients that are on the package also..like eggs and oil)

a bunch of milkyways or snickers

a milk chocolate candy bar (Dove, Hersheys, Godiva...whatever is in your budget, ya know?)

Okay, Mix the brownies, eggs, oil and whatever else the recipe on the box tells you to put in there.

Chop up some of those Milkyways or Snickers, and gently stir those loverly candies in there.

Put in a greased 9x13 (or whatever size dish the almighty package tells you to put it in).

Grate that Milk Chocolate candy bar, and sprinkle on top of the brownies in the pan.

Bake 'em on the setting that the package tells you to for as long as it tells you to.

Trust the brownie package. It knows what it is talking about.

I'm serious. These brownies are heaveness.

I mean, if you enjoy chocolate they are.



also, there will be a post....soon, informing you of my Opossum slaying occupation...i promise, Crystal! It's for you!!

I stink at blogging

I really do, sweet friends. I've been reading all of your blogs, and I just want you all to have the heads up that I'm pretty sure I'm not gonna be a regular blogger. I mean, you guys know how to blog! You know how to make it real and make me laugh. I love it!! I giggle at graced telling me that her boys noticed her write the word "sexy." I jump up in the air when I see that Kim loves nutella. Seriously, it is awesome, sweet sisters. Awesome. Please go get some next time you're at the store. You don't need a fancy croussant (sp?). All you need is a spoon. Gotta sink full of dirty spoons like me? Shhhh.....just use your finger. It works just fine, and you totally deserve it. Ummm, what else?

Must read more blogs and type more later...