Busy January!

Well, I'll start by saying that I love Christmas time. I love it so much that I get sad and feel like there is nothing to look forward to after it is over. I always hate New Years because it means that we have to get back in the routine "on the go" life again. I am a spontaneous person and like staying in my PJs all day and then getting dressed and going shopping, then staying up late watching my "cheesy" (according to Brent) Hallmark movies. Therefore, thinking about going to bed late and tired and dealing with all the stress of being a teacher, makes me sad at times. Then when it actually happens, I kind of get in a rut too. I try to counteract this with doing at least a couple of things per day for myself or things that I love. I love to take Samford on walks. I love getting outside, talking in some fresh air, and freeing my mind of all the stress and busyness of my day. When this year began, I told myself that it wouldn't be long until we had a long weekend with MLK holiday. I am excited about this long weekend. My parents are coming to visit us and since I love spending time with them it makes me have something to "look forward to". I am hoping they will stay several days. Please pray for Josh and I over the next several weeks as we seek God's direction.

I hope that you enjoy this picture of Samford with a blanket over his head and laying on his doggie that he got for Christmas! 

Samford is so spoiled! We bought him a bag full of stuffed animals at the thrift store so that if he tears them up, it's ok. He loves these animals. His favorite one right night is a black jaguar! He always loves for us to throw it to him and then he carries it around and won't let us have it! I can say I truly love him! During Christmas holidays, we saw Malerie's suggestion "Marley and Me". It was a beautiful movie, but I could not handle it. I love Samford so much and out of all the animals I've ever had, we are the closest. It's amazing how Samford is just like a little person. If you are happy, he is happy. If you are sad and crying, he comes up to you and looks like he wants to say, "What's wrong? I love you!" Well, sitting in the movie, with tears streaming down my face, I said, "Josh, I can't handle this movie. I can't stand to think about losing Samford. I hate this movie." Samford is truly a member of our family, an important member. He is like my first child. To prove how important he is, please know that my mom just made him a toy and embroidered, "We love Samford" on it. My dad says she must be losing it if she is sewing for a dog. Samford's no dog, he's a super special dog! The first picture is of Samford taking a nap tonight. He wished everyone a "restful and peaceful and warm" night! Love you guys!