A Note From the Author

I know you've been waiting...

2012-01-30T15:33:00.003-05:00

I am so very sorry my blog has been so depressing lately...

To end that for a long time here is a very good synopsis of my book...you should be very honored, because besides my classmates and a couple of friends, you are the first to read this!

"I never thought that the worst day in my life, would turn out to change my life forever. And I don’t just mean the next couple weeks, I mean the rest of my life, probably until I die. You are probably wondering how one day, except for the day you become a Christian, can change your life forever. But this one really did. To understand this story completely, we need to start at the very beginning. My brother, Carter, was coming home for a month long break from his mission work in Kenya, through the IMB. I was thrilled to say the least.

“‘It’s been a year of no big-brother coffee talk time, yes, I am very excited!” I thought to myself and about ten steps later I could see his terminal coming into sight. As soon as his spiky brown hair and blue eyes came into view, I bolted across the room and into his arms; his strong, welcoming, comforting arms. I stood speechless for a few seconds as my parents came to join our hug.’”

However, it turns out, two weeks into his trip, something happened I would have never imagined.

““Its...Chrissy, watch out!” he shouted, I tensed up as Carter leaned over and guarded my body, all I saw was another car coming quickly towards mine... Then all I heard was the death piercing sound of another car crashing into the side of my car, and we spun in doughnuts as the other car hit us once again. The passenger side of my car and the whole front of the car was completely crushed, trapping Carter’s legs from moving, but I was untouched.”

Many people, at this point, would think that this is the end of the story. We got in a car wreck he got better and life went back to normal. But no. How could that change your life? I didn’t think it could, but this can.

““I want you to go to Kenya and help Rob and Amber with that project I was supposed to start, and stay for six weeks.” I was shocked.

“What?” I asked, I knew I had asked him what I could do for him, but this was not what I had imagined he would ask me to do.

“I want you to go to Africa for six weeks.”

“But...”

“But you asked me what you could do for me, and since I can’t go back for at least a few months, I want you to go in my place.” I took a deep breath, finally grasping what he wanted me to do and said, “I’ll do it, but just for you.””

So, two weeks later, I left for Kenya for six weeks, though much against my will. I really couldn’t see how a six week trip to a foreign country would be good for a seventeen year old. Good thing God had it in His plan. Because, some pretty incredible things happened on that trip. God pretty much changed me forever. He broke my heart to pieces. He made me love lots of little children. He had me see some devastating things. He made me love a people I could have never imagined loving. And make some very hard decisions. But thankfully, the young lady who stands with you today is not the same girl who went on a six week trip to Kenya. But if you really want to see every little detail, you’ll have to read the book that tells it all.

And I’m proud to tell you that it’s called, “Journey of the Heart,” by me, Bailey Bowers. The end."

Hehe. I'm so proud. Like so stinkin' proud. Oh and something else about my book- I'VE TALKED TO A REAL LIVE PUBLISHER!!!!!! Well, actually my mom has, but he was REALLY interested and is going to call back in a few weeks to check in and see how it's going! YIPPEE!!! I'm thrilled if you can't tell. :):):)

Alrighty- now I'm done. Have a lovely Monday.

~Bailey

Holding On...

2012-01-28T17:18:00.004-05:00

James 1:2-4

"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."

James 1:16-18

"Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of his creatures."

1 Corinthians 2:9

"But, as it is written,

'What no eye has seen, nor ear heard,

nor the heart of man imagined,

what God has prepared for those who love him'"

Psalm 119:73

"Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice,

because I have hoped in your word."

Jeremiah 29:11

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare[a] and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."

I hold fast to these truths...through the good days and the bad(or really really bad, like yesterday).

And on rough days, these truths are about all I have- they keep me going, they encourage me from day to day. And right now...about all I'm doing is holding on to God and His word.

~Bailey

P.S. Be extremely thankful I didn't unload my life on you...you would have been here for hours and left distressed.

And here I am again...

2012-01-26T20:01:00.002-05:00

I'm here at the keyboard,

Writing a book...

Writing papers...

Writing blog posts...

I'm here at the books,

Science...

Latin...

Philosophy...

The Bible...

I'm not back at the craft desk...

I'm not back at the piano bench...

Because life has been simply crazy...

But I am back at church...praising God among other believers whose hands are also lifted high in glory and awe of the king.

"Oh, I'm running to your arms,

I'm running to your arms,

The riches of your love will always be enough,

Nothing compares to our embrace,

Light of the world,

Forever reign!

My heart will sing,

no other name, Jesus, Jesus"*

I'm back in the embrace of Jesus.

Here I am again, in the embrace of Jesus. And it feels like life is back to normal.

~Bailey

*lyrics from "Forever Reign" by Hillsong

Just Life...

2012-01-21T16:46:00.002-05:00

Ahh...feels good to be back at the keyboard! School has been back in full swing, which makes life a bit crazy! Here's an update on my life for any of you that care...

School: It's going well. Math has been much better so far this semester. For our science research paper I have chosen to do hurricanes and tornadoes! For our intoducotory philosophy course, I am doing a presentation on the Shakers at the end of the semester. I don't agree with their beliefs at all, but they are very interesting!

My book: AMAZING! I have talked with a self publisher who was extremely interested about it, he's calling back in a month to check with me again to see how far along I am. I am stinkin' excited! Once I get it done, I'll have an extra page on my blog so that you all can read the first chapter!

Sonia: So cute, as always! She is growing like a weed...well so am I, but I'm 14 so it's not very normal ;)

I believe that's all I have to tell you right at the moment...sorry if I bored you, but I thought you would appreciate something! Have a great(raining here) weekend!

~Bailey

There you'll find me

2012-01-10T17:07:00.004-05:00

In the quiet and peace of my dad's office at church...I finished it.

I finished a new book- There You'll Find Me, by Jenny B. Jones.

Do you ever feel sad when you finish a good book? Like that feeling- man I wish this book weren't over, can't it just go on forever?

I felt like that with this book. I wish I could read on and on about the journey of 18 year old Finley Sinclair trying to find God through tragedy in Ireland, and 19 year old Beckett Rush thinking he wants to change from Hollywood bad boy, and chase a different dream. Can't it go on forever?

After a long day of classes, I finished the book, sad that I was finished, yet happy satisfied to know I had just read another book by one of my favorite authors.

I highly encourage you reading this book- I have a feeling you will enjoy it(even my mother loved it).

Here is where you can buy it: Barnes and Noble, There You'll Find Me

And Jenny B. Jones website: Jenny B. Jones

~Bailey

Surrender...Passion 2012

2012-01-08T12:36:00.004-05:00

"We raise our white flag...

We surrender all to you...

All for you...

We raise our white flag...

Love has won...

Your love has won...

We life the cross

Lift it high

We lift the cross

Lift it high

We raise our white flag

We surrender all you...

Your love has won!"

Passion 2012.

live.268generation.com.

~Bailey

Dear 2012,

2011-12-31T15:49:00.004-05:00

Dear 2012,

2011 has been great. I went to a Taylor Swift concert with my best friend in the whole world. Had an amazing time at camp. Got to go to the beach as a family. Spend a couple of days at the Great Wolf Lodge. I've learned so much, and started to enjoy piano. Most of all grown closer to my God and Savior. And whole lot more.

But 2011 has also been difficult. School has been very very challenging. But it's been good overall. Mom got sick, and is still struggling with it. William and I have been struggling with headaches, but they are getting better, much better.

It feels like this past year has flown by, and hopefully I will be able to do a year in pictures very soon. Parts of me don't want to grow up, or see 2012 start...but I can't help it.

2012, this year I hope to accomplish two things.

1. To learn to get along with my brothers- and most of all to learn to love them.

2. To be focused on God and trust in Him no matter what. To know that whatever happens...it's His will for me. Wherever He takes me, whether it be Kenya, or right here in North Carolina. I hope to grow closer in Him, and continue to strengthen our relationship.

So 2012, whatever you may bring, I pray that God will use this year to do remarkable things in my life and in those around me. And simply, I can't wait to see what God does this coming year.

Because with God, life from year to year, day to day, is an unending adventure.

Will you join me?

Love- Bailey

Oh- and Happy New Year!

Merry (late) Christmas!!!

2011-12-26T19:05:00.004-05:00

I hope that you all had a wonderful day celebrating the birth of our Savior! We had a wonderful Christmas at our house, including many gifts, reading of the birth of Christmas in the Bible(Luke 2:1-20) and many fun times together.

Have a blessed week, and MERRY CHRISTMAS from our family to yours!!!

~Bailey

The Star

2011-12-24T07:58:00.004-05:00

"Where is he who has been born king of the jews? For we saw His star when it rose and have come to worship Him." Matthew 2:2

"When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy." Matthew 2:10

"And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told to them." Luke 2:20

Last night as we were driving home from Christmas celebration #1(which will later get a whole post dedicated to itself) I had my ipod earbuds in, and I was staring at the stars. And my heart ached...wouldn't it have been so amazing to have seen that star that night? The star shining in honor and glory of our Savior. How incredible would that have been?

Mary and Joseph had no idea how powerful their son was going to be. They didn't know what to expect. Shepherds and Magi came to worship their baby...can you imagine what was going through their heads?

But...this star, shining so brightly, led them to the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ.

And how amazing would it have been to have seen that star that night?

~Bailey

Beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news...

2011-12-23T07:48:00.004-05:00

When we left to go pick up Sonia, we met an amazing couple- Chad and Heidi Spore. They had four kids at home, Hallie, Carter, Carly, Hayden...and were adopting Cooper. And we never expected that we would be such amazing friends to this day. Let's just put it this way- we all LOVE the Spore's...so so so much.

When we were in Ethiopia, getting visas for the children(it was that Friday, we had been gone 16 days, and were ready to be home), Heidi walked in our room and told us the most amazing thing. With tears in her eyes she said, "Beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news. We are leaving tonight." And we hugged and cried together.

At the beginning of this year Chad and Heidi began the adoption process out of Uganda, they wanted a boy around their son Cooper's age(They adopted him from Rwanda). They got a referral this summer- for a boy who was about 2 and a little girl almost a year. And they said yes. Why not, right? haha

Unexpectedly, they left December 2 for Uganda to pick up their two precious new children- who would be named Hannah and Caleb. As the weeks passed they prayed vividly that they would be able to make it home for Christmas- with their family complete- their family of 9. This week came closer...they needed to passports and two visas.

Our God is an awesome God. He can move the Mountains. He is Mighty to Save. Prayer is a powerful, powerful thing. Really powerful...

Because they are leaving tonight at 5:20...and will be home tomorrow to spend Christmas Eve and Christmas with their family. And we(my family) could not be more thrilled for them.

Now you can't say snow is a Christmas miracle- this is. Praise God almighty!

~Bailey

Another Christmas thought...

2011-12-20T18:38:00.007-05:00

"Daddy!" she(Sonia) shouts as he walks in the back door.

"Daddy will fix it. Don't worry sissy!"

"Daddy, I love you so much!"

"Daddy knows how."

"Daddy can help me."

"Daddy will do it!"

"I love my daddy."

We all have our earthly daddies...whom we trust to do everything, whom we trust to fix our problems. And we love our earthly daddies.

However...two thousand years ago Jesus, our heavenly daddy's son, came down to earth for us.

He was going to fix everything.

And we were awaiting His arrival.

Maybe not patiently, but we were waiting.

"For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders, and His name shall be called, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

And people were waiting for Him to save everyone...to be a king...to reign over all...to be mighty.

But instead he was born in a stable...was loved by His mother, Mary, and His father, Joseph...He was born among animals...and was wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger.

He wasn't a king, He was a baby.

He wasn't reigning over all, he was being held in His mother's arms.

But He would later save all...save the nations and His people. He would be mighty. He would fix everything. He would solve our problems.

He would be our redeemer...I hope that's what we are all celebrating this Christmas season.

~Bailey

P.S. As you can tell I've been doing a lot of thinking lately...there might be more of these posts in the near future so I hope that you are enjoying them!

And by the way... you should read this. It might make you cry( I got teary...this is big people).

Missy@ It's Almost Naptime!!!: In a stable

Christmas...

2011-12-19T08:52:00.004-05:00

Luke 2:1-15

"1In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered.2This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3And all went to be registered, each to his own town. 4And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town ofNazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. 6And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

8And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. 10And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger." 13And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,

14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!"

15When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us."

And that...my friends...should send chill bumps up your back. Just sayin'.

~Bailey

2011-12-15T19:25:00.005-05:00

When I was about to loose my mind...

When I needed a getaway...

When I was exhausted...

When I was ready to have some fun...

When...well...you know...let's just say it had been a long week.

We all hopped in the car for a surprise family vacation...and arrived at the Great Wolf Lodge.

~Bailey

p.s. Did you see it's 1 week and 2 days until Christmas???

It finally hit me...

2011-12-10T08:32:00.004-05:00

Until a few days ago, it hadn't really hit me that Christmas was soon. We had our Christmas tree up...our front porch was decorated...the Christmas musical at our church was coming up soon. But I really wasn't in the Christmas spirit...which is very odd for me. It probably didn't help that Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday it was 60 degrees...it was kinda hard to believe it was Christmas time when it was that warm outside.

On Thursday night, getting ready for dress rehearsal for our Christmas musical, William was on the phone, mom was fixing my hair, and we were running around getting ready to leave. And it hit me. Not because our live was crazy...not because we have presents under our tree...I'm not really sure what it was...but it hit me, "It's really Christmas time."

Last night we had a special performance of our musical, invitation only, it was for people who had visited our food pantry in the past year, and ladies from the battered women's shelter. We had about 125 people show up, and we fed them all a sit down dinner of steak, baked-potatoes, and salad. The tables were set up, and we had gift bags with apples, oranges, mints and chocolate in them. As the adult, youth and children's choir were all singing, "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day", and all of the people watching us...it was Christmas, right then and there...it really felt like Christmas. When we walked out, waiting in the lobby for people to exit, we continued to sing, "Peace on earth, peace on earth, peace on earth, goodwill to men." When they walked out, their faces were cheerful, and they looked so happy to have someone caring about them. And that right there was like giving a Christmas gift. To see them that happy...that's what all of our hard work in practices was for, to touch someones life with the love of Jesus Christ.

Last night, it hit me, that was what Christmas was supposed to be. Sharing God's love by caring for people, telling them the story of Jesus Christ. That's what Christmas is supposed to be about...

Sharing the joy of Christ's birth that we have through this season to those who don't know.

That's Christmas.

~Bailey

The Reason Why...

2011-12-05T19:32:00.005-05:00

I get very excited about Christmas. Okay let me rephrase that- I get extremely excited about Christmas. On November 25th(every year) Christmas music is put back on my playlist and the Christmas piano books come out of hibernation. I put a countdown on my blog many days before that...which by the way is now down to two weeks and 6 days...yay!

Most of the time I find myself guessing at what presents are under the tree...thinking of what I am going to buy for friends and family...what I want to be under the tree Christmas morning. I'm pretty sure it would be safe to say we all do it if we are honest.

I have caught myself many times this Christmas season thinking about lights, and the tree, and what I want...not "Wow. God sent His only son to earth as a baby to save us from our sins. To suffer for us, to go through life as a human for us. Thanks God."

I have had to stop and think to myself that presents and trees and lights don't really matter...having an outfit to wear to the Christmas Eve service- it doesn't really matter. It's just something that the world has made important. And showing myself this- is most definitely a work in progress.

Please don't get me wrong- like I have already said, I LOVE Christmas. A lot. But like my dad said yesterday in his sermon, it's frustrating to see what Christmas has turned into- what WE have turned Christmas into.

I love exchanging presents and being with my family but...

This Christmas season I challenge you- along with myself to remember WHY we are celebrating Christmas.

It will be hard with all of the distractions of the world- but I bet it will be rewarding...

Would you join me?

~Bailey

Family Tree 2011...

2011-12-02T08:41:00.001-05:00

Customize a free picture slideshow

P.S. Go visit Anna Gray's blog by using the button on the side, she's having a Christmas giveaway! yay!

Our Sonia Grace...

2011-11-26T17:24:00.006-05:00

We all hopped out of the van and onto the red dirt at the orphanage, after a 18 hour long flight- all the day after Thanksgiving. We were getting ready to meet our Sonia Grace for the first time. I had butterflies in my stomach, we were getting ready to meet the little girl I had prayed for such a long time. They walked into the room with Sonia, Cooper, and Grace, and mom immediately teared up and dad got out the camera. They handed Sonia to dad, and she had a look of fear and wonder on her face.

The little girl we met two years ago is not the same little girl who has been playing with her "little people" nativity set today while we put up Christmas decorations(pics coming later). She is now one of the cutest, funniest three year olds you will ever meet. I love this little girl deeply, this little girl from "her wanda"(Rwanda). It's hard to believe that two years ago we met her, two years ago I held her little self for the first time. Many people say that we blessed her, but really, she has blessed us so very much. And we are so thankful for her, so, so thankful for our Sonia Grace.

~Bailey

This Thanksgiving...

2011-11-24T07:44:00.005-05:00

I'm thankful for my family...and the joy, the struggles they bring.

She's just so beautiful...

Aren't they so handsome?

I'm thankful for my friends....the cherished memories we have together.

Oh yeah...Taylor Swift with my bestie...can't get better!

Love these girls!

I'm thankful for those older than me, who have corrected me, loved on me, been loyal to me, and helped me become who I am today.

And most of all I'm thankful for my Savior, Jesus Christ...I'm thankful for being free. I'm thankful for having someone who loves me every day...no matter what I do.

I'm thankful today for all of these things. But most of all I'm thankful I can be free because I have a savior who loves me!

What are you thankful for today?

~Bailey

A Journey...part 1(of 4)

2011-11-23T09:12:00.003-05:00

Two years ago yesterday, my mom was asking two of her closest friends to pray that we would be able to get plane tickets for Rwanda. We had just been called and asked if we would like to travel FRIDAY to pick up Sonia. It was Tuesday. That's three days, and most places were closed on Thursday because of Thanksgiving. By Tuesday night we had gotten plane tickets, and our house was a disaster. I can see it- Sonia's suitcase on the table with sippy cups and clothes and bibs and diapers and snacks. The boys and I had just gotten down our boxes of summer clothes, we would be needing them in the warm weather of Rwanda. My mom was making a list of the things we would need to do in order to leave- run to Wal-mart, go to the bank, go to the drs, and of course pack for two weeks away from home.

The next two days were spent in packing, franticly running errands...and well, everything else that comes with leaving the country for two weeks. And that Friday morning we boarded a plane in Raliegh NC, at 6:30 am, with our stomachs in knots, we took off for a journey that no one was prepared for, because it would be the best and hardest two weeks we would have ever experienced.

To be continued....

~Bailey

Yes, Lord.

2011-11-19T09:58:00.006-05:00

~Disclaimer: this is really long...like really really long. Make sure you have some time to read it before you sit down.~

"It is not about God making my dreams come true, but about God changing my dreams into His dreams for my life."*

Katie Davis is 22 years old. She moved to Uganda when she was 18 years old, and fell in love with the country and it's people.

"I thought of how, after a long, hard day in my preivous life, I would have crashed on the couch with a pint of ice cream, a good sappy movie and my closest girl friends. Here, at the end of a long, hard day, there was nothing to do but cry out to Jesus for the strength to go on."*

At that point she was 18 years old, teaching kindergarten to over one hundred student daily- not knowing their language.

"I can enter into someone's pain and sit with them and know. This is Jesus. Not that He apologizes for the hard and the hurt, but that He enters in, He comes with us to the hard places. And so I continue to enter."*

Yet, in the middle of these circumstances she praises God for His example to us of how to care for the least of these.

"I am common and simple, with nothing special about me. Nothing special except I choose to say "yes" to the things God asks of me and "yes" to the people He places in front of me. You can too. I am just an ordinary person. And ordinary person serving and extraordinary God."*

Even on bad, hard days, she continues to say "yes". "Yes" to the man across the street who hasn't eaten in days, "yes" to the baby boy whose stepmother won't care for him. "Yes" to the ones no one will care for, everyone knows "Aunty Katie" will say, "yes."

"I can say "yes" to Him, or I can say no. I can go to the hard places or I can remain comfortable. And if I remain comfortable, God who loved us unconditionally will continue to love me anyway. I may still see His glory revealed in my life and recognize His blessings, but not like I could have. I can miss the will of God."*

"I wrapped him in a towel and, as my friend held him tightly, I began to cut away the dead skin that hung from his heels and the insides of his feet...He didn't scream or cry; he simply sat there in what must have been excruciating pain as tears rolled down his expressionless face. I, on the other hand, ran out of the room and threw up."*

She cares for the least of these, she has adopted fourteen girls, she runs a make-do medical clinic, she helps helpless ladies make a living. And you know what started it all? "Yes", she simply said, "Yes". "Yes" to God, "yes" to wherever He was going to take her, "yes" to the plan He had for her.

She is 22. 22 years old, 14 daughters, a medical clinic, homeschooling her children, managing a sponsorship program for hundreds of children- not to mention caring for those who just look like they could need some love.

"My heart was being broken. The situations with Michael and Patricia and so many other children were breaking it every day. While i never lost my love of compassion for the children, I did sometimes lose my patience with the circumstances they were living."*

All it took was, "Yes God. Yes, I will do what you are asking." Isn't that what so many of us, including me, aren't doing?

As I read Katie's book, it opened my eyes to the situations out there. And at many times I said to myself, "Okay God, maybe this isn't as easy as I wanted it to be. Maybe I'm not called to Uganda." It's not easy. Caring for people with third degree burns, gashes in their feet, and people who are so hungry they can't move- it's not easy. But every day Katie keeps moving- she keeps saying, "yes" to what God puts in front of her.

She doesn't do it for herself- but for God. For God's glory...so that in heaven every people from every tribe and nation will bow praising God.

I hope, that through God's strength, wherever He plans to take me- that I can say "yes" for God's glory.

"We know you are here. Let us bring all our wounds and brokenness to You expectantly, without a doubt. Remind that all the children we touch, and all the children we don't, are Yours. Your in this broken life, and Yours in eternity. Come, Lord Jesus. We wait in hope."*

Thank you, God, for those who are saying "yes". Thank you for Katie. Thank you for giving us hope. Thank you for saving us. Thank you for what you have done and will continue to do in Katie's ministry. We wait in hope to see what you will do- one child- one person at a time.

Yes, Lord. We wait in hope.

*All quotes are from Katie's book, Kisses from Katie, you can read more of Katie's story at kissesfromkatie.blogspot.com. Thank you.

And then we saw her...

2011-11-10T16:39:00.004-05:00

We saw her face for the very first time. I remember it vividly, we were rushing around the house getting ready to leave for classical and we had been anxiously awaiting the email with her picture. With my hair still wet, and my dad had just pulled out to go to work, my mom got the email, the one holding the picture of our precious little girl. We all starting freaking out, my mom called my dad and told him to turn around and come home. When he got back, we stood around the computer and slowly opened the email. "Sonia Uwamahoro, April 14, 2008" And then we saw her face. Two years ago we saw her face and we all said, "She is beautiful, but look how mad she looks!"

The little girl I had prayed for almost my whole life, there she was. 18 months old, tall, just like her big sissy(who is now 5'8"), beautiful, but she looked so mad. You would not think my little sister is the same little girl in this picture. She is now probably one of the funniest people you will ever meet, she loves our dogs, she is full of life, talks all the time, she loves our whole family, makes a new friend wherever she goes, and she really just loves life all together. I could go on and on about how much I love her...but for now this will have to do. As the months of November and December go by you will get to experience the two year celebration of having Sonia Grace with us through many stories and pictures!

Sonia Grace- I love you more than you can imagine, I can't wait to see what God will do in your life as you grow up. I will be there for you no matter where God takes us. Love- Bailey.

Not Just a Number

2011-11-06T16:38:00.003-05:00

"147 million is just a number to most people, but when you see their faces and know their names, they become something more than just a number to you." David Platt: Secret Church 2011

Today is Orphan Sunday. A day to remember all of the orphans in the world, those precious children who don't have parents. And you know what? There are 147 MILLION children. 147 MILLION, do you get that? Kids- who don't get to live a childhood because they don't have people to love them constantly, and some of them are taking care of themselves. It is proven that if every family in the U.S. adopted a child from somewhere, THERE WOULD BE NO ORPHANS. NONE.

Do you see why I want to go to Uganda, so I can show children the love of a family? Today I was talking with a young mother in church, we were talking Wednesday after church about the book "Kisses from Katie". I told her Wednesday, "Can't you see me doing that? With all of those chocolate skinned children, teaching kindergarten and loving on kids in orphanages all day long." She jokingly replied, "And you can save a couch for me when I come visit you!" This morning, she came up to me and said, "I just wanted to tell you that after I pulled away I thought of something. No matter where you go I will be so proud of you. When I read 'Kisses from Katie', I could vividly see Christ shine in Katie's life, and I can see you serving somewhere because I can see Christ shining in your life too, and I just wanted to tell you that."

I just love her. And you know what? Africa was not in MY plan, I have always loved children, but I had always wanted to go to college and get married and have kids and homeschool them. But, that's my plan, not God's. His plan may be for me to go to Africa and teach and adopt kids, but I'm not totally sure yet. What this young mom said to me, encouraged me to keep praying, keep asking God to shine through me and that his will would be done in me.

Not at all am I saying I am perfect, because I'm not, at all. But, If more families in the U.S. would be willing for Christ's will to be done in them, than there would be so many less orphans in the world, and that means that there would be more children being loved by a family.

And now, on Orphan Sunday, waiting for God to tell me what to do in life, I can pray for all of those families, that 147 million wouldn't be just a number. That 147 million would be faces and names of precious children who are in need of love, and who long to be loved.

Would you join me in praying that people would be awakened to the will of God in their live's, and that God would make 147 million not a number, but names and faces?

I'm sure all of the orphans in the world would appreciate it. ;)
~Bailey

The Moment

2011-11-01T16:55:00.006-04:00

Is it really November? It can't be...the calendar has to be wrong. It feels like yesterday was New Years of 2011, and soon we will be celebrating new years 2012. Crazy. It feels that every year of my life is flying by so much faster than I would like it to.

I want to spend all day with Paige, and Mary laughing over Paige stuffing fries in her mouth at Zaxby's.
I want to spend all day with my BFF's, Emily Grace, Anna Gray, Beth, and Breanna, goofing off and being girls.
I want to spend all day singing at the top of my lungs at a Taylor Swift concert.
I want to spend hours in God's word, and letting myself fall deeper in love with God everyday.

I want time to stand still for just a few minutes(or hours or days) so I can appreciate the moment even more. I don't really want to grow up any more than I have now.

I want to stay in 9th grade, and still be a "little girl".
I want to stop growing since I have so many cute clothes, but obviously that's not going to happen just yet.
I don't want to think about college, when I don't know what God is calling me to do after high school.

But the weird thing is...I am looking forward so much that's not in this moment.

I am looking forward to Christmas, and everything that it entitles.
I am looking forward to driving my self to places.
I am looking forward to seeing Sonia grow up to be a Godly young woman.
I am looking forward to see what God is going to do in my life.

But for right now...I'm going to stop trying to think about "Later" and think about today, and what today entitles and appreciate every second of it. It may be crazy that it is already November, but that's life. And our life is incredibly short in God's ultimate plan. This means we need to live it to the fullest, love God with everything we have, and be open to his plan for tomorrow, next week and the rest of our lives, no matter where that will take us.

~Bailey~Philippians 4:13~

Let's go Happy Jump on a Curb at App!

2011-10-27T16:33:00.005-04:00

Friday, my family and Amanda traveled up to Boone(Appalachian State) to see some of my favorite people ever! We saw, Paige, Catie, Jesse, and Caleb! It was so much fun.

Why is this post titled "Let's go Happy Jumping on a curb at app!"? Because when we drove up to Paige's appartment building Paige and Catie were...oh yes...happy jumping on a curb with huge smiles on their faces ;). So fun. I just love them to pieces! We went down to King Street to see all of the fun shops, then we went to the parkway for a hike!

(left to right) Jesse, William, Paige, Me, and Catie!

After we completed our hike we went to Macados for dinner...wow. It was so good. If you ever go to App you must go to Macados. They have tons of different foods that are so very good, AND their cinnamon buns are fantabulous. Stinkin' amazing. And huge. I have plenty of witnesses. Haha.

Our day was concluded with lots of "Good byes" and amazing Paige hugs ;). It was such an amazing day- especially since I got to see Paige and Catie. Such a wonderful day...so wonderful. I seriously couldn't go any longer in life if I hadn't seen them. Anyway- just thought I would update you on my amazing day.
~Thanks for reading all of my words~ Bailey

P.S. Thanks Paige and Catie for such an awesome day! Love you both!
P.S.S. Paige took all of these pics...aren't they awesome?

Das not funny friday: Sonia Moments

2011-10-24T15:23:00.006-04:00

So- yes, it is Saturday but I have some funny moments from this week to share. Here it goes:
_____________________

Sonia- "I put dis in your pocket."
Mom- "What is it?"
Sonia- "My banana."
Mom- "Okay, I would love to have a banana in my pocket."

5 mins Later:

Sonia: "Mom I'm hundry."
Mom: "Here, have the banana in my back pocket."
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Amanda and Nick were over Sunday night and Sonia and Nick were throwing ball in the house, why? I have no idea. Nick threw the ball at Sonia and she yells, "MICK BOWDERS!"

Yeah Sonia, he is part of the family, but his name is Nick Land. haha
______________________

My dad recently got home from a mission trip to Guinea Bissau, ever since he returned Sonia has been loving on him immensely.
Every five minutes: "Dad I love you." Followed by a kiss.

Today she was talking to dad in the kitchen and she again says, "I love you dad."
"Yes Sonia, I know you love me." Then he said to my mom, "Man, she is like a middle school girl with a boyfriend. They don't know what love really is, but they say it anyway."

Too funny.
_______________________

Anyway- That's all for this week. I hope it made you laugh. Have a good weekend- Bailey

Will you remember?

2011-10-20T16:43:00.002-04:00

Sometimes life goes by so fast that we don't even realize what God is doing...what he has done and what he will continue to do.

When I was in fifth grade a congenital cyst formed on the left side of my neck. I was rushed to the hospital on a Friday night in April and the next morning the drained it. The anesthesia caused me to be sick for the rest of the day and part of the next day. I had three families come to see me, and Emily Grace stayed in the room while I was throwing up. Now people- thats big love right there. I got to go home that Monday and received cards and flowers for about a week. We went back every month for a CT scan, to make sure things were okay. About six months later, when they were close to doing surgery to remove it, they went in for the scan. And guess what? It. Was. Gone. They said it was probably smaller than the size of a pea and they couldn't even find it. Miracle.

Last year, I put my hand through a glass window, and had to get 37 stitches. While they were stitching me up for two hours, I told the doctor about my church, my great Christian friends...for two hours strait I talked. If you know me personally- yes, I talk alot, but not this much. We don't know if he was a Christian, but I ministered to him no matter what.

Thanksgiving 2009, we traveled half way around the world to get my sister, Sonia Grace. She was 18 months old, and as cute as she could be. I had prayed for a sister since I was four, at this point I was 11- thats a long time. We got the call to travel on the Tuesday before thanksgiving and traveled that FRIDAY. People- it was INSANE. Craziest three days of my life. We got there and met her. I knew from then on- I had the best sister ever. She is stinkin' adorable...and I love her to bits! I finally got a sister- after seven years- God gave me a sister.

Will I remember that God did a miracle in my body?
Will I remember that I got to minister to someone while getting 37 stitches?
Will I remember that through prayer, God gave me the perfect sister?
Will I remember that he lets me struggle so I can find my weaknesses, and fix them?

Will I remember that God loves me daily- no matter what I do?

Will I remember?

Will you remember what God has done for you in your life?

~Thanks~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

What you've all been waiting for...The choices of love part 7

2011-10-19T15:15:00.001-04:00

I took it to my parents that night at dinner and they told everyone that I would be moving. Everyone had a shocked reaction, except for Ben. It was very hard to see their reactions, but I knew it was the right thing for me to do. A few days later a letter came in the mail from the superintendent. He told me a carriage would be here in two days to pick me up. I needed to have my clothes and all of my belongings ready to put in a chest that he would bring. I was so excited I told everyone immediately. Ben and Ruthie seemed the most disappointed, I knew that Ruthie would, but not Ben. That surprised me.
Finally, the day had come. I had packed all my things and was ready to go once the carriage got here. I said my goodbyes and there were many tears from my mother, father and sisters. Ben didn’t cry, but I could tell he was very disappointed. Once the carriage arrived, they loaded my things into a chest and we began the long journey to Boston.
Once we arrived, they took me to my sleeping quarters and left me to unpack my things. In the room was a bed, dresser, mirror, desk and chair. They already had my school teaching uniforms there. They were all black and I could only wear the clothes I brought when I was in my room alone. One of the other teachers came to get me for dinner that night. She took me to a large room with two long tables going down each side, this was the dining hall. The kitchen was in the back of the room behind two doors. All of the girls came in, filed in a straight line. They were all dressed in dark purple with a black ribbon in their hair and one tied around their waist. When they came in, they all sat down to eat. The kitchen workers brought them their food, and placed their napkins in their laps for them. When everyone had finished eating, the girls left the dining hall, without even clearing their dishes from the table. I went back to my room and went straight to bed, for I knew the next day would be a very long one. My parents were correct, the girls didn’t do anything for themselves.
The next morning I got dressed and headed to the dining hall to eat breakfast. My classroom was simply gorgeous. All the desks were a mahogany wood, the chalkboard was spotless, and all the books on the bookshelves looked brand new. The curtains were the same color as the girl’s dresses, a beautiful dark purple. As the young ladies walked in, they mingled with each other for a few minutes, perhaps talking some of me, but I wasn’t sure. When all of the desks were full, I decided to start class.
“Good morning, class. I am your new teacher, Miss Stanton. If you all wouldn’t mind, I would love if you would introduce yourselves.” One of the girls stood up and told me, “Of, course. My name is Emily. It is nice to meet you”
Each of the girls stood up and introduced themselves, all sounding very sophisticated. We began with writing, I talked to them about writing a paper, and how to make sure it was edited correctly. They didn’t seem very interested, which was a surprise to me, because whenever I taught back at home, the children listened intently with their eyes glued on me. When it came time for spelling, I had been told before class that they were to have a spelling bee today. I had never done a spelling bee before, but it was quite fun. After spelling we had to a grammar lesson. At the end of the day, all of the girls, I hoped, had learned a lot. When my class was over, we had lunch then I had different class that came in. We did the same thing as the last class, but these children were younger. They seemed much more interested.
When the day was through, I went back to my room and thought over the whole day. The main thing I thought of was how the girls acted. They were kind to me, and to one another, but there was something I didn’t like. They didn’t do anything for themselves. All their lives everything had been done for them, so now they didn’t do things for themselves either. I decided I would write a letter home, it said,
Dear Family, and Ben,
Life here, as you told me, is quite different. My classroom is beautiful and I have a room all to myself. The food is fine, but nowhere near as good as yours, Mama. My clothes are quite odd, all black including my shoes and stockings. The girls, however, are beautiful and wear purple dresses with a black ribbon around their waist and in their hair. I am missing you all so much, I can’t describe how much I miss you really. I am not sure when I will get to come home to visit, but it will probably be at Christmas. I love you all very much.
Hugs and Kisses,
Elizabeth
While I was writing the letter, I realized how tired I was, and fell asleep, in my school dress, shoes and stockings. The next few days went fine, I suppose, although some days I wished I was back at home with my family. Surprisingly I even missed doing chores and helping care for my family. One night, after being at the school for a little over a month, I found myself crying in my room on my bed, over the tests I was trying to proof. I had made some friends, all of them were teachers and one was a girl who was falling behind in her schooling, but none of these replaced my family. One day, while I was in the middle of teaching grammar to my afternoon class, someone came in the door. I was facing the board, so I didn’t look behind me, for I figured it was someone coming to observe my classroom. A voice half shouted across the room, “Lizzie!”
That could only be one person, only one person in all the world called me Lizzie. It was Ben! Tears came pouring down my face as I ran to the back wall, where Ben was standing.
“Ben, Ben!” I yelled as I ran. I wrapped up class rather quickly that day, so we could talk. He told me that when he read my letter, he knew I should come home. The family discussed it and decided Ben should come get me from the boarding school. We talked to the principle and he let me leave to go home with Ben, back to the farm life that I realized I loved and missed so much. He had brought the old family wagon, and old Trigger. The ride home was much better than the ride there. I knew I was going home, and was so happy about it. On the ride back, I realized something. Ben was more than just a friend to me, he was more than just a farm hand.
When we arrived home, tears were pouring down the cheeks of Ruthie, Pa, and Ma and me. Ben stood back, just watching. I went back to teaching at the old town school and felt so much happier than I had ever felt when I was in Boston.
After school one day, when I had been home about a week, I heard familiar footsteps coming up the dirt road that led to the school. It was Ben. I was still in the school room cleaning up when he walked down the center isle between the desks. I moved from behind my desk and stepped directly in front of it and he said, “Lizzie, I love you. I have since I began to work for your father.”
I didn’t respond, but my eyes began to fill with tears. Then he looked at me with his shining blue eyes, and asked me with a joyous voice, “Elizabeth Stanton, will you marry me?”
“Of course I will, Ben!” I said,wrapping my arms around his neck. Then we both rode old Trigger back home and told everyone our important news. They were all so happy for us!
A few weeks later we had our wedding. I wore mama’s old wedding dress; it was just like I had pictured it. We were married in the old church with a small congregation, but it was perfect. We built a log cabin and lived beside Mama and Papa for a year or two.”
Tucking the covers up under Ruthie’s chin, and giving her a kiss on the forehead, I concluded the story by saying, “We still live happily ever after, with 3 children! You, Samuel, and your baby sister Grace. I am going to get in trouble with your father, for you are only 5 and I let you stay up far too late. I will tell you the story of how your mother and father fell in love again another night! You must get to sleep, I love you very much, Ruthie.”
“I love you too, Mama. Thanks for the wonderful story, its my favorite!”

________________________________
And that...my fellow bloggers completes the Choices of Love, I hope that you absolutely loved it! Thank you all for reading- I would love to know what you thought!
~Your author~Bailey

Finally....The Choices of Love: part 6

2011-10-11T16:20:00.002-04:00

I didn’t think that Mama and Papa took it very well. I figured that would happen. After the children were asleep Mama and Papa helped Ben walk up to his bedroom and around the house, like they had done before. Then they told me to join them at the kitchen table.
“Elizabeth, we are very happy that you got offered this job. There is just one thing you should know before you make your decision.”
“What is it Pa?”
“We just want you to know that these people have been raised very differently than you. The way you will be living there will be very different than the way you live here. It will be a lot to get used to, then when you get home you will have to adjust to farm life all over again.”
“I know. Do you think I should take the job though?”
“What I am saying, is that in the end, it is your decision, but you must be very careful in what you decide. I think that you would enjoy the teaching, but would not care for the way you would be living or how the girls act.”
“I understand.”
“Have you prayed about it?” my mother questioned.
“Yes ma’am, but I feel like when I talk to people about leaving they are opposed to me leaving, and then I don’t know what to think.”
“That makes sense. Who all have you talked to?”  “Ben, and Ruthie, and now you all.”
“Well I think that you should think about it for a few more days and then get back to the superintendent,” my father suggested.
“I will, thanks Ma, thanks Pa.” After saying this I went up to my room and went to bed. That Monday morning as I rode to school, I thought a lot about what mama and Papa had said the night before, but I already knew what I was going to do.
“Ben, can I come in?”
“Of course Lizzie, have you made a decision?”
“Well, I think.”
“So?”
“So, I think I am going to go.”  “Wow, Lizzie. That is wonderful.”
“I have prayed about it and talked to Ma and Pa, and they said it would be a big cultural change but they thought I would enjoy the teaching, so I’m gonna go.”
“Lizzie, have you thought about how other people are going to feel when you move? Like your sisters?”
“I think they would be ok with it in the end, but I’m sure they would miss me at first.”
“That makes sense. Could you help me get downstairs and outside?”
“Sure, how is your leg doing?”
“It doesn’t hurt much anymore, and your Ma said that I could get back to work either tomorrow or Wednesday.”
“Thats great. I am sure Pa will love having your help again.”
We made our way down the ladder and outside and then I headed up to my room to write a very important letter. I wrote very carefully and in the end it read,

Dear Mr. Howell,
Thank you so much for coming to our small town to watch my teaching. When you asked about me moving to Boston to teach, I was so honored. When I arrived home that afternoon, I found that our farm hand had been injured. That is why it has taken me so long to get back to you. After talking about it with my family, I have decided that I will take the job. Just let me know what I need to do to be ready to go.

Sincerely,
Miss Elizabeth Stanton
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Sorry it took so long, but I hope you are enjoying it!!! I would love to know what you think so far!
~Your Author~Bailey~Philippians 4:13~

More story is coming!

2011-10-07T08:08:00.002-04:00

For those of you who are interested, I promise I will be posting more of "The Choices of Love" tomorrow! I have had a super busy, yet super fun, week. I've been fall clothes shopping with my Aunt, cousin who is home for fall break from college, and my grandma, of course I've had school, but overall it's been a good week. And looks to be a good weekend too! Have a great Friday, don't forget to sleep in tomorrow morning! haha!

~Thanks~Bailey~Philippians 4:13~

1 year ago today...

2011-10-02T14:41:00.003-04:00

"Guys, I think I'm bleeding."
I had just put my arm through a glass window, shattering all of the glass and tearing my arm up terribly in 3 places. I had no idea that this would be happening. My best friends sat on the floor shocked, almost in tears at one of their homes. They comforted me until my dad got there and took me to the hospital where they stitched me up, total, it was 37 stitches. When I look back on that day, it's not fun. It's actually more scary now than it was then. That night, I was extremely blessed. Extremely. My best friends were there comforting me the whole time, and after I left they were all in tears. Now, I sit at my computer typing this, my arm is fine, I have scars, but I'm fine. When people ask me about them, I just say, "I put my hand through a glass window playing flashlight tag, and had to get 37 stitches." They look shocked.
The day after it happened my dad told the whole church. I got a few cards, and everybody checked on my the next time I was at church. Emily Grace and her mom brought us dinner and milkshakes(thanks guys, you don't know how much all of that means). It was a long recovery, it took about three weeks to completely gain full use in my arm.
Now, I look back on that day, not doubting that God did this for a purpose. As funny as it might be, when I was in the hospital, the medicine they had to use to numb my arm, made me very talkative. That was a blessing, because even though I didn't know it I was telling this Dr. all about God. I told him about my church, my Sunday school class, and my great Christian friends. Now, isn't that cool? So far, thats the only way I have seen God work through this, but I have no doubt that as my life continues I will be able to use this story to tell people how God can work in the bad things in your life, no matter what they are.
And now, 1 year ago today, I look back on this day, and thank God that He is going to be able to continue to use this in my testimony, and use it mainly, for His glory.

~Your Author~Bailey B.~Philippians 4:13~

P.S. I would like to thank all of those who helped me out when all of this was going on. Thank you Emily Grace, Dana, Anna Gray, Lindsay, Mom, Dad, all of those from church that prayed for me, my friends at Classical, and my family. Thank you to you all!

It never hurts...

2011-09-29T17:11:00.005-04:00

It never hurts to have a little fun with all of your besties. Friday night I got the chance to hang out with some of my best friends! We roasted marshmellows, and hot dogs, watched a movie, chit-chatted while we caught up on life after not seeing each other for about a month, and of course, had lots of fun taking pictures.

Thanks Anna Gray for taking all of these wonderful pictures!

Don't forget to have fun every once and a while, it will make your life so much better!
~Your Author~Bailey

The Choices of Love: Part 5

2011-09-27T17:33:00.003-04:00

Sorry I haven't been posting anything else than my story, but I don't have anything to post about. So I hope that you are enjoying it!

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“Elizabeth, what is taking you so long?” called Ruthie from the kitchen.
“I’m coming. Do you need help with something?”
“Yes actually, could you help me sew up a hole in Laura?”
“Your baby doll?”  “Yes. Who else is named Laura in this house?”
“I am coming.” As I began to sew the hole in the dolls neck, she asked me a question that I had a hard time answering, because of the thoughts that had been going through my head.
“How is Ben doing?”
“I guess he’s doing ok.”
“I almost forgot about the superintendents arrival. How did that go?”
“Good actually, he said my teaching was so good that,”
“That what?”
“That he wanted me to take a job in Boston at a girl’s boarding school.”
“What? You can’t move to Boston, you just can’t. I would miss you so much. Please don’t go, please!”
“I didn’t say I was going, its just a small possibility. I haven’t even told him if I was going yet. Don’t tell Mama, cause I haven’t told her either.”
“I won’t.” After saying that she walked away angrily with her doll in hand. I saw how me leaving would effect the lives of others. Maybe I shouldn’t go. I would just have to spend some time in prayer and thought.
It had been about a week and a half since Ben cut his leg, and he was doing much better. Thankfully it had not gotten infected, mostly because we cleaned it out every day and replaced the cloth covering his wound. As it got closer and closer to supper time, I decided I would tell mother about Boston, but there was someone I needed to talk to first.
“Ben, are you awake?” I said quietly.
“Yes, Lizzie. Do you need something?”
“Well sort of, I just wanted to talk to you about something.”
“All right, what?”
“Well, I am really considering moving to Boston to teach. Do you think I should?”
“I don’t know. It’s your decision. All I know is that lots of people would miss you an awful lot.”
“I suppose that’s true. I was thinking about telling Mama tonight at dinner.”
“Oh.”
“Oh, what?”
The saddest expression washed over his face as he replied, “Nothing, I am just really tired.”
At dinner time we talked about how Ben was doing, and mother said that his leg was doing much better and he should be able to start working again in about two days. This seemed to be a great time to ask her about Boston.
“Mama, Papa, when the superintendent came, he thought my teaching was so good that he...”
“He what?” my mother questioned.
“He asked me to move to Boston and teach at the girl’s boarding school.”
“Oh my, Elizabeth that is wonderful, but Boston is at least a full days journey.” my mother and father both said.
“Yes, I know. It would be wonderful though Ma. They provide all of your clothes and food.”
“We will continue this conversation after the children are in bed,” said Pa.
“Of course Pa.”
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The next installment will come soon! -Your Author- Bailey

The Choices of Love: Part 4

2011-09-21T07:45:00.001-04:00

“Thank you. I will get back to you in about two weeks.”
We said our goodbyes and I started to walk home trying to comprehend how I was going to tell my mother that I wanted to move to Boston, which is a three day’s journey.
While I was on my way home, I began to think about how I would tell Mama that I wanted to move to Boston and be a teacher. As I rode onto our property and began to put old Trigger away, I heard several loud yelps from inside the house. I hurried to put Trigger in the barn and then ran inside as fast as I could, which was very hard with my dreadful petticoats. I walked into the house and the yelps continued, but just getting louder and louder. I walked into my parents bedroom and saw Ben laying there.
“Mama, what happened?” I said with a shocked voice.
“He has a severe gash on his calf,” Papa replied hurriedly as he and mother wrapped his leg up quickly.
“Where are the children?” I asked.
“Upstairs, in your bedroom. Would you go sit with them please? I’ll tell you when we are done and you all can come downstairs.”
“Of course.” As I walked upstairs, I knew it would be a few days before I could ask Mama about moving to Boston.
When I got upstairs, all the children asked me how he was doing and if he was going to be ok. I didn’t really know how to respond since I had only seen him for a few minutes. When Mama and Papa called us downstairs they told us Ben had fallen asleep. I helped them to get Ruthie, Caroline, Jacob and Caleb down to bed, then we talked for a little while.
“He was outside fixing the plow, when the horse was frightened and the plow ran over is leg and cut a five and a half inch gash across his calf. He should be ok, but the doctor came earlier, before you got here, and said that it would take at least a week to two weeks before he can go back to work.”
The next morning, things were quite different around the farm. Even though I went to school that morning, I had to end it before lunch so I could get home and help around the farm. When I got home, Mama said to me, “Elizabeth, I need you to go tend to Ben’s leg, he is still in our room. Tomorrow I will need you to stay home from school to help me cook and care for Ben so your father can work outside.”
“Yes, Mama. Where is the cloth to rewrap it?”
“On the shelf by the fire.”
“Is it infected Mama?”
“No, not yet at least. We’re praying that it doesn’t get infected at all.”
When I began to tend to him, he woke up and said to me, “Lizzie, how did everything go with the superintendent?”
“Fine, thank you,” I said, actually glad to hear my nick-name. I could not decide if I should tell him about Boston and the job at the boarding school or not. After thinking about it for a few seconds, I said, “Actually, he offered me a job in Boston at a girl’s boarding school.”
“Boston, Elizabeth, that’s three day’s journey!”
“I know, I haven’t told my mother, so don’t mention it.”
He laughed and went back into a peaceful sleep. As I finished to cleaning his leg, I thought about Boston and how easy life would be there. I would not have to do anything for myself. No more chores, or tending to leg wounds. The hard thing would be asking my Mama and Papa about it. When would I ask her? How would I ask her? Would she take it well? Maybe I should wait until Ben got better. All these things were running through my head as I was caring for Ben. Other thoughts were going through my mind too. Was Ben more than a farm hand to me? Was he more than a friend? Would I miss him calling me ‘Lizzie’ if I moved away?
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That's all for now! I hope you are enjoying it...I'd love to hear what you think. Thanks for reading- Your author- Bailey

The Choices of Love: Part 3

2011-09-15T07:43:00.002-04:00

If you didn't read the fist 2 parts, click here: The choices of love part 1, and here: the choices of love part 2
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When I arrived at school, I hung some of the old, but nice, curtains above the window and put some of the student’s art work on the walls. I also put some flowers on my desk that I had picked on my way there. The students began to arrive one by one then two by two and then a big group of children ran up the road just before I rang the bell. We began with arithmetic, then continued on with spelling and reading. In the midst of all of the students reading aloud, I heard a loud knock on the sturdy wooden door. My heart began to pound as I walked towards the door, I straightened my skirt and made sure my ribbon was still in my hair and my bun had no stray hairs. Right before I answered the door, I said in a calm but commanding voice, “Children, please be on your best behavior for our guest.”
Then I answered the door. At the door was a man dressed in a button-down shirt with pin-striped pants and black dress shoes. He greeted me very kindly by saying, “Good morning Miss Stanton. My name is Mr. Howell, I am the superintendent of the schools in this area and I have come to observe your teaching. It looks as if you have a very nice classroom here.”
“Why thank you, Mr. Howell, you may call me Elizabeth if you wish.”
“No thank you. I prefer to call you Miss Stanton, if you don’t mind.”
“Not at all. We are in the middle of reading. Do you mind if they finish reading before we break for lunch?”
“No, I am here just to observe so continue on as if I was not here.”
I thanked him and went back to the front of the room and told the children to continue on reading. The rest of the day was a blur except when Mr. Howell told me at the end of the day, “Your class was superb ma’am, I enjoyed it thoroughly. I will be back in the morning to observe arithmetic and spelling.”
“That will be wonderful, thank you Mr. Howell.” we said our goodbyes and when I arrived home I told everyone about the whole day and the arrival of the superintendent. They listened intently as I told the stories and how he was to return the next day. Papa played on the fiddle for a few minutes before we all went to bed.
The next day went very well in my eyes. The superintendent arrived very early that morning just as I got there. He looked very intrigued as I taught like he was thinking about something. After school that day, I found out that he had been thinking of something, and it had been about me! When school ended, he asked if he could take me out for a cup of coffee. I did not deny, because he was the superintendent and I was honored that he would ask. When I arrived at the hotel restaurant, he kindly brought me in and pulled out my chair motioning for me to sit down. After we each ordered our coffee and talked about school and teaching for a few minutes he asked me question that shocked me so much I thought I would fall out of my chair and onto the floor, “Miss Stanton, I believe you are too great of a teacher to be teaching at such a small country school. If you are not interested, I understand, but at the Girl’s Boarding School of Boston we have a fine teaching opening. You would be teaching a writing, spelling and grammar class. The school is very nice, all of your clothes will be provided, along with food and housing. If you would like to stay here I understand, but I will need to know in the next three weeks if you would like to take the job. I will be leaving tomorrow so you can just send me a letter at this address.” after saying this he slid a piece of paper across the table with his name and address.
“Oh, my. That is quite an offer, I am honored that you would ask me Mr. Howell. I will discuss it with my family and get back to you, if that is all right?” I responded, trying not to sound surprised.
“That would be great, I am glad you are considering it. I must be going though, I have to rest for my trip home tomorrow. Thank you so much for letting me visit. It was a pleasure.”

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Come back in a few days for the next part, it starts to get REALLY good....you won't want to miss it!
~Your Author~ Bailey

Reason

2011-09-13T20:46:00.002-04:00

* I am continuing to work on the design whenever I have time, it should be complete with in the next two days or so.

for personal reasons, I have chosen to remove the design on my blog. I am working on re-doing it to make it look nice myself. This reason has nothing to do with any of you, or any of my friends. Thank you for understanding-

Bailey

Welcome to "A Note From the Author!"

2011-09-12T13:42:00.002-04:00

This is still me, Bailey! I just had a girl named Bree design my blog and it was free! Don't you love it?!? Tell me what you think of the design...

~Bailey

Ten years ago...

2011-09-11T08:00:00.002-04:00

Ten years ago, it was a normal day.
Ten years ago, people were driving down the road going to work.
Ten years ago, something happened that changed our country.
Ten years ago, planes hit the twin towers.

Ten years ago, firetrucks raced down the road.
Ten years ago, families were destroyed.
Ten years ago, our country grieved.
Ten years ago, more than 3,000 people died.
Ten years ago, people were sitting in a coffee shop, when they were shocked with the news that the twin towers had been hit by several planes, killing everyone in the planes and almost everyone in both of the buildings.

But, ten years later, our country is stronger.
Ten years later, we have healed from this.
Yet we have not forgotten this day, but honor the people from our country who sacrificed their lives and fought for us that day.
Ten years later, after much, LOVE, FAITH, and most importantly, GOD, we have healed from this.
Ten years later, we stand stronger as a country, because that is how one nation under GOD, responds from a tragedy like this.

~Bailey

P.S. You need to watch this video, it was the inspiration for this post: The skit guys, 9/11

The Choices of Love: Part 2

2011-09-05T15:05:00.001-04:00

As I got closer to the small house we lived in, I heard Caroline yell, “Elizabeth! Could it have taken you any longer to get home?” I didn’t respond to her but just rubbed her head, messing up her tangly hair, which she had gotten from playing outside all day, I assumed.
“You must wear your best dress when the superintendent comes, so he will think wonderful things about you,” Mama half yelled as she stirred the delicious smelling soup she was brewing.
“I will Mother, don’t you worry about me! I will be just fine.” After dinner, we all sat around a warm fire, while father played on his fiddle. We all sang until it was time for bed. Since Ruthie and I shared a room, we both talked about the superintendent coming and all of the things that I would have to do to get ready for his arrival. We talked for at least an hour, then finally Ruthie just didn’t answer me and I drifted off into a peaceful sleep.
The next two days were spent in anticipation of the superintendent coming and his arrival. After school each day, I spent two hours cleaning the school room from top to bottom, enjoying an excuse to be away from home, and not doing all of the chores my mother had for me. Since I was the oldest, it was a big job, even if Ben was around to help Pa with the farm chores. When I got home, Ben greeted me with my hated nick-name by saying, “Hello, Lizzie. Have you had a good day?”
“Fine thank you. I’m not kidding you, don’t call me that name.”
“Oh my, I almost forgot. Your father went into town again today to see if they had received any news about the superintendent coming, and they heard that he would be here mid-day tomorrow.”
“How exciting! It’s a good thing I stayed to clean today.” as I said this mama yelled, “Elizabeth, Ben, Pa, come on inside, it’s time for supper.”
When I walked in mama informed me, “I made your favorite: chicken pie and green beans! I made it to celebrate the arrival of the superintendent.”
“Why, thank you, Mama. I was just cleaning up the school house. Sorry I got back so late. I wanted it to be nice for when the superintendent came.”
“That’s fine, I understand. Just please, be home on time tomorrow. I could really use your help around the house.”
“I will,” I was abruptly stopped with the entrance of my father and Ben. After they came in, we all sat down to eat and Papa said the blessing, “Dear Father, thank you for the food you have so graciously placed in front of us. Please bless this food and our time together tonight and keep us all safe. In your name, amen.”
Our meal, as promised by my mother, was delicious, and our conversation was centered around the arrival of the superintendent. I was so excited, I barely said anything, but just listened to the conversation of the others at our table. Time for bed came quickly that night for everyone was tired from the hard work that day so they all went to bed shortly after dinner. When I crawled into bed, Ruthie fell asleep quickly, but I couldn’t go to sleep for the knots in my stomach were keeping me awake. I finally did go to sleep, and was quite refreshed when I awoke. I put on my best school dress and tied a ribbon around the neat bun on the back of my head.

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Come back soon if you want to read more! -Bailey

Those Days...

2011-09-01T17:20:00.003-04:00

Sometimes you have "those days" where everything does not go the way you wanted it to.

Today was one of those days. Physical Science is a bomb, and I hate it. Having to vacuum. Things not going on very well with your siblings, when you are really trying to love them and show them that. School seems like it is never going to end. It was just one of those days...

But, then I begin to ask my self why these days have to happen...

Why I have to struggle loving my brothers?
Why Physical science was ever invented?
Why school takes so long?
Why the Rainbow vacuum was ever invented?
Why can't I have a good attitude on days like this?
Why you have to have sinus headaches days in a row?
Why God lets you struggle?

So many why's, and I'm not quite sure about the answers to any of the questions, which frustrates me. But I know over time God will reveal the answer to all of these "whys". And on these days, I just have to tough through it, and know that next day I get to start over, and most of all remember that because God loves me I have a responsibility to love those around me even if I am having a bad day. Then I can listen to Taylor Swift or Hillsong United, make cards, and text Paige(thanks Paige), and then I am mostly all better.

I just have to remind myself, that even though there are so many unknowns, I do know one thing. God loves me, and lets me struggle so I want to fix those problems even more. And that also means I have to have a good attitude and love those around me, even when I don't want to.

And because he loves me so much, I can do all things through him who gives me strength.

~Thanks for reading my nonsense~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

The Choices of Love: Part 1

2011-08-30T20:08:00.003-04:00

This is the story that I had to write last semester for school. I will be posting it in portions here on my blog! Enjoy-
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“Elizabeth,” yelled Mama, “Hurry up and sweep the floor!”
“Mama, I must go, I can’t be late for school. I have told the children not be late numerous times, yet I arrive late to class and set a bad example. Can I do it when I get home?” I replied hurriedly.
“Well I suppose, but be home in time to help Ruthie and me with dinner, do you understand?”
“Yes, Mama,” I yelled and ran out the door, after I kissed my baby brother on the forehead. I hopped up on old Trigger and rode off to school, thankful to leave the chores of the farm for at least a few hours. When I arrived, I was relieved that none of the students had gotten there. I walked in to the school, set my things down and began to welcome the students as they hurried into the classroom.
“Good morning Laura, good morning Sammy. How are you all doing this morning?”
“Fine, thank you.” they both replied. As more and more students came in, the room filled with noise faster and faster. Finally, it was 8:30, time for school to begin.
Before I could catch my breath, lunch time had come and gone and all of the students were walking home. The girls talked of dolls and the new dress their mothers were making them, and the boys talking of sneaking by their favorite fishing spot on their way home. When I rode up to the house, the first thing I heard was the voice of Ben, our farm hand, “Lizzie, you’re finally home,”
“Ben, you know how I hate that name.”
“Forget that, your Pa was in town today and he heard that the superintendent is observing teachers in this area and he is coming here, to our little town!”
“You are pulling my leg Ben.”
“No, I’m not, go ask your father. He’ll tell you the same thing.”
“Fine then. I will!”
I galloped over to the barn where I saw Ruthie helping Jacob, who was just three, feed the chickens and get their eggs. Both of them came running up to me, giving me a big hug.
“Elizabeth, you’re home!” yelled Ruthie, as she ran up.
“How’s you’re day going, sweet girl?” I asked her.
“Great, how was school? Was Joseph acting up again?”
“Thankfully, no. But Sammy took his turn picking on all of the girls,” We both laughed as I walked away to go see Pa.
“Pa, is it true that the superintendent is coming here?” I asked him with a questioning voice.
“Yes, my sunshine, he is.” he replied.
“Wow, I guess Ben was telling the truth!” I whispered under by breath, with a smile on my face, as I walked away to help Mama with dinner.
_________________________

I would love your feedback- I will post more in a few days! Thanks for reading~Bailey

I'm a Writer...

2011-08-28T10:24:00.004-04:00

It all started when I was about 8 or 9 years old, I started writing little stories. The ones I remember were about a mystery in a lighthouse, and another about having many surprises while Trick-or-treating. I would start some stories, but never finish them, in fact I still do that sometimes and I have got to break that habit. One was about a mirror that was shattered and it contained a treasure map, another was a journal of a girl traveling the Oregon trail with her family.

I really started getting serious about my writing at the beginning of my second semester of 8th grade(last year). We had to write a short story- I was thrilled, this was not an assignment it was fun! My story took me 3 weeks to complete and was 10 pages long. This story was called, "The Choices of Love" and it was about a girl(set in the 1700s) who was a teacher and...well I'm not going to tell you because I think I'm going to post it here bit by bit.

Anyway, after school got out I wrote another story called, "Finding Love", being completely different than my other story and giving lots of perspectives and experiences that I have been through personally. I might post that one too.

Now, I am currently working on a story(after school, not as an assignment), which is also completely different than the other two, and I am considering using a self-publisher to publish my story! Eek...exciting! I feel that this story is going to be my best one yet, now it will take a long time to write this one, but I am so excited to see how it turns out in the end! When my mom read the 12 pages I have so far, she said to my dad, "She does this for fun and as a relief from her school day. It's just crazy, I think if she worked at it that she really could become a writer!" That made my morning when my dad told me that on the way to church!

It would be a 1 in a million chance, but my dream is to have a book published, and I believe that if I work hard enough to achieve this goal then it very well could happen. And having the though of being a well known author makes me so very happy.

So this blog is one of the ways that I write...I write to you about many things. Things from my family, to friends, and alot of random that you probably don't care about, but I just love to write it down.

I have a passion for writing.
I use writing as I decompresser after school, I will write 3 pages of my story after school each day.

I love to write, because I was born a writer.

~Your Author~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

Pray for a purpose...

2011-08-26T13:15:00.005-04:00

I come to you all today and ask you to pray for my dear friend Mary. She was supposed to be at Gardner Webb University starting her college classes yesterday, instead she is here, at home, struggling with several viruses. One of them being Mono. For those of you who don't know what that is, Mono is basically a virus that sucks all of the energy out of your body and makes you tired for months. She is so tired, and weary, and discouraged, because who wouldn't be excited about starting college? But when you get sick and are exhausted...you can just imagine how she feels.

So I come to you and ask you to pray for Mary.
Pray that God shows her why she is struggling with this.
Pray that she will heal quickly.
Pray that she will simply be encouraged by those who love her.
Pray that God will show her a purpose through all of this, that she would not be discouraged, but that through everything she will know how to praise Him and He will be glorified through it all.

Please pray for Mary.

~Thanks~ Bailey~ Philippians 4:13~

P.S. you can read her blog by looking at the blog list and clicking on "Mary who's amazing" because my linky thing won't work!

Charmed Life series by Jenny B. Jones

2011-08-23T18:07:00.003-04:00

*update* If you want to find out more about her books go to jennybjones.com*

So, I just finished a Christian series of three books called the Charmed Life Series by Jenny B. Jones. THEY WERE AMAZING. Thank you Emily Grace for recommending them to me! I aboslutely loved them. With equal parts comedy, mystery, romance, and sarcasm how can a book not be good?

The first book, So Not Happening, was about her moving from Manhattan after her mom and dad getting a divorce and her mom remarrying a man who lived in Oklahoma. When she writes an insultive post about her new country town on her old school's advice column, finding friends is difficult. Mainly, you see her trying to adjust getting used to her new life and of course, like in all the books, getting into a bit of danger with a mystery, oh and don't forget the drama with her boyfriend back at home!

The second book, I'm So Sure, is about her getting a job and finding more friends at school. She once again entangles herself in a mystery at school with Prom Queen. And since she doesn't have the money to buy a prom dress, she must get a job to earn the money! She also finds her dad has been hiding something from her and her mom. And- she begins to find someone who she likes-alot.

The third book, So Over my Head, is about a situation her family and she ends up finding a mystery both at home and with her real dad and his new fiance...oh yeah! Two mysteries for Bella Kirkwood and her oh so funny sidekick Ruthie to solve...and don't forget the hot geek that she is crushing on, and recently broke up with, from school, Luke(hehe)! With a relationship in the air, along with two mysteries, either this book or the second one had to be my favorite!

I strongly encourage you to read these books and enjoy them....Seriously, you need to read them, you will love them(if you are a girl)! Have a nice rest of your week~Bailey

At the end of the week...

2011-08-20T08:37:00.003-04:00

Comes the weekend. I love the weekend. Usually the weekend brings relaxation, family time, friend time, and church. This weekend happens to bring me a lot of relief. School has worn me out this week, it always does on the first week. But now that I have sort of a schedule it will get better.

But, I am still looking forward to this weekend. Last night about 50 people from our youth group and college department went to the Hillsong United concert, which was really, really good! It was an awesome worship experience. Today I
am gonna have about 5 hours of girl time with my bestie, which is MUCH needed.

Then tomorrow we have church and family time afterwards, but sadly the weekend is only 3 days long, so then Monday starts back to school and piano and life.

So, since the weekend is so short, try to treasure and appreciate every moment.

Have a wonderful weekend- Bailey

Officially...

2011-08-16T16:05:00.003-04:00

I'm officially in high school.
I'm officially a 9th grader.
We officially started school today.
I officially learned a lot today.
I am officially very tired.
I officially have 4 more years of school left before college.

And right now I am officially decompressing, which for me means watching the new Taylor Swift music video(which by the way is very good you can watch it by going to taylorswift.com), looking at blogs, fiddling around on the computer, and then reading a non school related book.

So losts of things are official now. But the biggest is that I am in high school!

Now I am officially done.
Bye.
~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

A summer in review...

2011-08-13T19:46:00.013-04:00

June 4th- the summer started out with Amanda and Nick's wedding, in which I was a bridesmaid! It was a beautiful wedding and a great weekend!

June 30th- THE TAYLOR SWIFT CONCERT!!! Me and Emily Grace went to the Taylor Swift concert as my(suprise) birthday present! You see, my dad surprised us with tickets 3 days before the concert! We had the best day together and will always remember it!

July 18th-22nd- Summer with the arts! It was so much fun and I had a great time with all of the kids in my group! Sadly, I have no pictures! Sorry!

July 25th- 30th- MFuge at North Greenville! I was there on my birthday so I got a little surprise bday party! We had the best time! Camp was awesome, one of the pictures is of my small group, which I got very close to throughout the week and one of my and two little girls on mission site one day! Over all camp was AMAZING!

Thats all the girls that came to camp in my dorm at my party!

Me and two of the little girls on site, Darcy and Julia.

Me and Amanda, who came with us!

My small group from the week.

My dorm on my bday!

August 6th-13th- We just got back from the beach yesterday and it was amazing! So- here are a few pictures, some of the only ones we took...I mean when you are having such an awesome time when do you stop to take pictures(except at a Taylor Swift concert!)!!!

And now...August 14th, as summer comes to a close, and school starts on Tuesday, I look back on this summer and see how blessed I have been to have such an awesome summer! And- most of you who read my blog, have been part of it! I'm so thankful to have had such an amazing summer with my friends and family! I hope that you had just as fun of a summer as I did!

~Thanks for reading~ Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

I'm alive....

2011-08-02T19:13:00.002-04:00

I really am alive, I promise! I have been so busy the last couple of weeks, its been insane! I just got back from camp on Saturday at about 2:30, and it was amazing! I learned so much and grew in my faith tremendously! We all had such a great time, but I don't have time to do an in-depth post about it now. Then before I left for camp we had Summer With The Arts, so I am exhausted! School starts back very soon and i can't say I'm dreading it or excited about it. Just somewhere in the middle I guess, it's just sad to see the summer coming to an end so quickly! Oh- and Emily Grace and I hung out today and I saw Hairspray for the first time...AMAZING! I loved it.

Anyway- just wanted to leave you a quick note saying I'm alive and well!

~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

The coming 2(ish) weeks...

2011-07-20T20:36:00.003-04:00

So, this week has been SWTA. Next week is Youth Camp at North Greenville, and the week after that my cousins will be here from Texas! Considering I am already exhausted from STWA this week, we will see how all of that works out! This week has been alot of fun so far, and I've gotten to know some of the kids really well! We have had a really fun time together, and overall they are all pretty stinkin' cute- I love 1 and 2nd graders! After SWTA each day all of the people in the drama meet for drama practice for the production we do on Sunday night. We have alot of fun in there, and we get leftovers from lunch afterwards!

I'm actually getting excited about camp next week! Until now, I was a little nervous and trying to focus on SWTA and having fun with the kids, I am still having fun with them but getting excited about camp too. I know it will be a great week and that God will teach me alot through it. Last year was awesome, and I know this year will too...the only thing I'm not thrilled about is that we are going to the Beacon for lunch on the way there like we did last year, and it was gross...I really don't want to go there for lunch.

Plus, I'm going with some of my favorite people ever(this trip in middle school with a few high school and adult helpers): all of my friend's from Sunday School, Kristi Houser, Amanda, Mary, and Ruth Anna! The only two people I wish were going are Paige and my mom. My mom was supposed to go but shes had some health issues and can't go...tear tear!

Then once I get back my cousins will already be there, and I know we will have an awesome time together!

I think I'm done now. Thanks for reading my randomness...

~Bailey~Philippians 4:13~

SUMMER WITH THE ARTS!!!!

2011-07-18T08:13:00.003-04:00

Summer with the arts officially starts today, and I couldn't be more excited!!! If you don't know what SWTA is then you can read this post: SWTA last year!

Anyway- I've got to go, but have a wonderful day! I know I will!

~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

Sisters...

2011-07-14T20:38:00.005-04:00

A sister holds a special place in someone's heart.

No one can replace the relationship you have with them.

I've only had a sister for about a year and a half(and if your wondering she is 10 years almost 11 years younger than me). But it was worth the wait. I didn't get a little girl, I got perfect. I got the perfect little girl to fill the spot in my heart.

Many people would say, after we brought her home, "You guys have done such an awesome thing by adopting her."
That is true, but we have been more blessed by her than I could have ever imagined.

When we first came home with Sonia, people would ask, so how is having a sister? I would just say, "It's great." But I was kind of still repairing from jet-lag and overwhelmed by the whole trip. Now if someone would ask me, I would say, "It's better than I would have ever imagined."

I can't wait until we go have mani pedis together for her 13th birthday.
I can't wait until I go off to college, and she comes to spend the weekend with me and my roomies.
I can't wait until she's my maid of honor in my wedding.
There are so many experiences that sisters and only sisters can share and I can't wait to do so many of them with my Sonia Grace!

Sonia Grace-I love you more than you could ever imagine and your sweet little kisses on the cheek make my DAY if your wondering...your the best sister ever! I love when you ask to hear "Tayor Swiss"(Taylor Swift) in the car. I love when you sing "BABY BABY BABY OHHH" in the car to Justin Bieber. I love when you ask me to come play babies with you or play makeup. I just love everything about you, even when you wake up at 2:00 in the morning and say in your sweet little innocent voice, "Baidey(Bailey) go potty." And I have to climb down my ladder and take you to the bathroom. I just love you... love- Bailey

And as Taylor Swift would say, "Oh darlin' don't you ever grow up!" Because you are perfect this size. And I love you dearly.

~Bailey~Philippians 4:13~

Stop at 12:00 for Emily- update

2011-07-13T08:00:00.005-04:00

**update** Oh my word. Prayer is a MIRACLE worker! Go read Emily's Cancer blog NOW!!! **

Please hop on over to Emily's Cancer Blog and read her latest posts. Her treatments weren't working, and so with talking with the Lord and her parents, they stopped her treatments about 2 weeks ago.

She needs a miracle. Her church and family are stopping at 8pm in England(where she lives) and having a large group of people to pray for her. She did a post for everyone who reads her blog to also join in. Some of you may not read her blog, but you should, and you should also stop at 12:00 pm today and say a prayer for Emily. She needs peace, rest, healing, and her family, friends, and church is praying for a miracle. So am I.

Just like my dad preached about 3 or 4 weeks ago, pray BIG, and pray BOLD!!! And that is what we need to do, pray for a miracle, by praying BOLDLY through the power Christ has given to us as Christians.

It won't take long. Maybe 2 or 3 minutes. Just stop at 12:00(even if it's a few minutes later) and ask for a miracle in Emily's life.

Thank you.

~Bailey~Philippians 4:13- I can do all things through him who gives me strength. ~

Stinkin' Excited!!!

2011-07-12T07:49:00.003-04:00

You ask why am I excited? Summer with the arts is next week!!! YAY! I am playing one of the roles in the drama, Annie, and probably helping with the 1st and 2nd graders!

And- what could make your morning better than listening to new Taylor Swift songs that I bought yesterday?!? They are "Sparks Fly", "Back to December", "Never grow up", and "Our Song"!

Also, my birthday is in 2 weeks, but I'll be at camp. Not like it matters, cause I've already got my bday present...Taylor Swift concert tickets(which was absolutely amazing)!!! I am going to make a shirt to wear on my birthday that says, "It's my Birthday!" and on the back it will have a big 14! haha...

Then- the beach is coming in August! My summer is getting very, very exciting!

~Thanks for reading friends~ Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

This week...ahhh quiet

2011-07-07T20:08:00.004-04:00

This week hasn't been crazy or anything like that. The boys and my dad are at camp, so is Emily Grace and it seemed like all of my friends were super busy! So- I've had a lot of time with my mom and Sonia, and spent lots of time writing a new story, and working on a photo book from the Taylor Swift concert(which was exactly one week ago, tear, tear its over). But the book is going to be super duper cute! Monday we went to my Mi-maw and Paw-paw's house, and spent the night there. Tuesday we went to build a bear, which was really fun! Yesterday we went swimming and watched Sense and Sensibility, and today I babysat and we watched Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story. Over all it's been a good, but quiet week.

Tomorrow the boys get home, and it will not be quiet any longer. So I'm gonna go read Little Men, and enjoy the last few hours of peace and quiet!

~Thanks~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

P.S. If you haven't read it, you need to scroll down and read about my Taylor Swift concert...I strongly suggest it, its a pretty awesome post!!!

WONDERSTRUCK:Taylor Swift

2011-07-02T11:18:00.008-04:00

Thursday night, I was wonderstruck. My night was flawless, and absolutely amazing. If you didn't read my last post, I got to go to a TAYLOR SWIFT CONCERT for my birthday! It was soooo good! The whole show was like a play, they had different sets for the songs, she moved around everywhere over the coliseum, and her dresses were gorgeous! Emily Grace came over about 11 and we went shopping to try and find a dress for me to wear! We were successful and found the cutest dress! After that we headed back to my house and made a poster, painted nails, fixed hair(which included a hair crisis for both of us), and got dressed! By 4:30 we were ready to go and my dad, Emily, and I got in the car and headed to the concert, picking up her dad on the way.

Once we got to the concert, our dad's took us to the gate and then we went in! They couldn't get tickets so they just waited for us out in the lobby. We went to the shops and I bought a t-shirt, bracelet, and poster for the boys. Once we got to our seats, Need to Breathe started playing. About 8:30 the lights dimmed, and a video came on. Then the music started, smoke came up out of the center stage, she came up out of the stage and sang Sparks Fly!!! It was amazing...truly amazing! I refuse to show the videos on my blog, because me and Emily are singing so loud, and so off key it sounds terrible(but we were having the best time ever)!

She sang, Enchanted, Mine, Our Song, Fifteen, Haunted, Long Live, Love Story, Fearless, You Belong with Me, Sparks Fly, The Story of Us, Dear John, Mean, Speak Now, Better than Revenge, and Back to December!!!! Taylor Swift sang from 8:30 to 10:30! Love Story was the last song that she sang and it was incredible! All of these pictures coming up are of her singing!

Overall, you can tell that the concert was incredible! If I had the money I would go to every one of her concerts! I know that me and Emily had the time of our lives that day, and will remember it for the rest of our lives. But I am very, very sad that it is over:(
Mom and dad- thanks so much...besides getting Sonia, that was the best day ever!

I hope that you enjoyed the pics! Thanks~Bailey

P.S. If you read this and looked at all of the pictures, I am impressed!

My Birthday present...

2011-06-28T16:34:00.004-04:00

Yes...my birthday is not until next month, but I already got my present. Do you remember THIS POST? Well none of that (except I am still having a girls day) is true anymore...because I AM GOING TO THE TAYLOR SWIFT CONCERT!!! My mom and dad got me and my best friend tickets off of ebay, and they just told me yesterday that I am going. I am still in shock. The concert is Thursday, and Emily Grace just found out today that she is going, much less that we are going together!

I AM SO STINKIN EXCITED!

Anyway- I will have some pictures to share with you this weekend!!! Eeeeeekkkkkk....!

~Bailey

P.S. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU MOM AND DAD!!! I can't believe that I am going to a Taylor Swift concert...I am beyond thrilled! You guys are the best parents ever!

Called...

2011-06-26T15:54:00.002-04:00

Let me give you a bit of background info before you read this. In the passage a demon possessed man comes to Jesus and asks him to heal him, this is what happens next:

Luke 8:32-39
"32 A large herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside. The demons begged Jesus to let them go into the pigs, and he gave them permission. 33 When the demons came out of the man, they went into the pigs, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and was drowned.

34 When those tending the pigs saw what had happened, they ran off and reported this in the town and countryside, 35 and the people went out to see what had happened. When they came to Jesus, they found the man from whom the demons had gone out, sitting at Jesus’ feet, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. 36 Those who had seen it told the people how the demon-possessed man had been cured. 37 Then all the people of the region of the Gerasenes asked Jesus to leave them, because they were overcome with fear. So he got into the boat and left.

38 The man from whom the demons had gone out begged to go with him, but Jesus sent him away, saying, 39 “Return home and tell how much God has done for you.” So the man went away and told all over town how much Jesus had done for him."

Now when you read this passage you can't help but laugh at the image of demon possessed pigs drowning, I mean really?

Anyway- this was the passage that my dad preached out of this morning. In the end of the passage it says that the man from whom the demons had gone out comes to Jesus and begs to let him come with him. But Jesus replies, "Return home and tell how much God has done for you." Then the man does what Jesus commanded him to do, with no hesitation or questioning, he just goes.

One thing my dad pointed out is that the demon possessed man doesn't hesitate to ask Jesus to heal him, he doesn't care what Jesus does to him, he just wants to be healed. Now- how can this apply to our lives?

We have to ask Him to do what he wants with our lives, not caring what He does, because we know that whatever He does is for the good. But are we afraid of asking this? Are we afraid of giving up certain things because of our comfort? Are we afraid of letting go of our culture and move to another country? Are we hesitant in doing what God wants us to do in our lives?

Are we afraid of following God's calling for our life, and giving up everything for him?

Am I afraid of the thought that one day when I get older I am probably going to leave everything here, that I am used to and that I love, to love small children and change their lives by showing them the love of Christ in Rwanda? Why yes- sometimes the thought makes me scared or worried, but still I know that God is calling me to do this, even at the young age of 13, I know that God is calling me not to be here- but somewhere else- shining for him.

We have to give up everything, be fearless, and trust in God and his calling for our lives.

~Bailey

P.S. Mom and Dad, I hope you are ok with me moving to a different country later in life. Cause I probably will. Just sayin'.

Storing up treasures...

2011-06-26T08:19:00.003-04:00

Ok, so I was browsing over blogs this morning(like I usually do) and came to this post on Storing Up Treasures. You should read it. I had an interesting day yesterday to say the least, and it sort of put me to rest.

I want you to read it so bad, that I'm gonna put the link below!

Storing Up Treasures...They Intoxicate Me

Aright...I'm done. But I might post later!

~Bailey

To my daddy- from his little girl

2011-06-19T10:15:00.003-04:00

Dad-
I would love to wish you a very happy father's day today! You have done so many things for me...you know- like taking me to the ER, and to birthday parties, and buying me new shoes, and taking me to get a pedicure on my birthday. The list goes on and on! You have been a role model for me, and for so many others. No matter what is going on, you manage to always take care of me, Sonia, and the boys. You have raised me to be a Godly woman, and I thank you for that.

Thanks for teaching me everything I know.

Thanks for setting an example for me, by caring for others(Amanda) like she was your own daughter.

Thanks for introducing us to Fripp Island.

Thanks for being so much fun.
Thanks for everything. I love you more than you can imagine!

With Love- your little girl- Bailey Elizabeth

A glimpse at the Summer...

2011-06-12T16:36:00.008-04:00

Now that school is out(here I come high school), most people would say, "Oh yes, summer is here! Now I can relax." Haha. Relax? What are you talking about? Our summer is probably crazier than during the school year. Please don't mistake me, our school year is busy too, but summer- INSANE! But it is still, with out a doubt, my favorite time of the year! If you would like a glimpse at my summer-

June 20-23: VBS at Rich Fork Baptist Church. I am helping with the card making track(go figure) and the nights I am not doing that I will be helping with Sonia's age group. It's kinda sad that she is big enough to go to VBS, but you know- life happens.

July 4-9: My brothers are going to Camp Caswell for church camp, my dad will be going this year also! This means that Sonia, my mom and I will be having a girl week, which I am hoping will include a trip to Build-A-Bear(yes- you read that correctly, and yes- I am almost 14)

Oh boys. That's all I'm gonna say. But I know that they will have so much fun!

July 18-22+24: My favorite week of the WHOLE summer- SUMMER WITH THE ARTS! I'm already on a countdown. Hehe. I absolutely love SWTA. This year I will be working with the 1 and 2 graders! I guess since I loved it so much when I was little, it's just so cool to see them and help them love and experience it also! The 24th is the musical production that we work on all week, which is extremely impressive.

All of my lovely students from last year! But I am so very sad when it all ends!

July 25-30: Youth camp for me. This year we are going to North Greenville for M*Fuge! And wow and am I excited, we went to the same camp last year, and it was AMAZING!

From left to right: Caylin, Me, Ruth Anna, Abbie, Paige, and Jessie.

August 6-13: OUR ANUAL TRIP TO FRIPP ISLAND!!!

EEEEKKK....I am sooo exicted! Fripp has to be one of my favorite places in the whole world! I just love being there!

Anyway- There you have it! I glimpse at my fun summer! All of the weeks(3) that we don't have things planned, will be spent at the pool and friend's houses! I hope that your summer will be as awesome as ours!

Thanks for reading- Bailey

Amanda and Nick Land's wedding!

2011-06-07T15:24:00.008-04:00

Me and my gorgeous sissy!

Daddy and Amanda!

Me and Daddy!

Do you think they want to have alot of kids?

Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Adam Land!

Blow a kiss to the groom!

Having fun with Mardi Gras masks!

All of the Bridesmaids and the BEAUTIFUL bride!

JUST KIDDING!

So Amanda and Nick are officially married! Still kinda hard to believe that my sister is married! Yippee!!! All I can say is that it was absolutely gorgeous as you have seen in the pictures and that my sissy Amanda, was the prettiest bride ever. The end.

Amanda and Nick- I can't wait to see what God has in store for you and your family you will have one day. I know that he will use you in so many ways to serve him. Thanks for always being there for me. I love you both so much and can't tell you how happy I am for both of you!

Thanks- Bailey

An exciting weekend!

2011-06-04T07:37:00.002-04:00

*(this is not going to be a long post- at all)

Do you remember this post? Amanda, who that post was written about is getting married this weekend! Yesterday was the rehearsal, and today is the BIG day! We went to do nails on Thursday, and I still haven't messed them up! I am so stinkin' excited! I will try to post about the wedding on Monday or Tuesday, because I have a Sunday School pool party tomorrow! My weekend is just a little but crazy, but thats ok, cause it will be really fun! Sorry for the lack of posts, but I might even have pics of the wedding to post- but you will have to come back and see!

I love you Amanda- and I can't believe you are actually getting married! I am so grateful to have you and Nick in my life!

~Thanks~Bailey~Philippians 4:13~

In the summertime

2011-05-30T18:53:00.003-04:00

In the summer time, I love the smell of salt water at the beach.
In the summer time, I love jumping into the pool- wondering if its cold or warm.
In the summer time, I love lathering sun-screen on my skin.
In the summer time, I love playing STAR, or racing my brothers across the pool(I always win).
In the summer time, I love my birthday.
In the summer time, I love camp.
In the summer time, I love Summer with the Arts.
In the summer time, I love to catch fire flies in the front yard.
In the summer time, I love to stay up late talking with my BFFs when they sleep over, because I don't have to get up early for school in the morning.
In the summer time, I love watching the sun rise through my arched window above my bed.
In the summer time, I love hot days at the pool.
In the summer time, I love getting up and after eating breakfast spending time in God's word.

How does God bless us with all these things in the summer time? How does he bless us with the ocean, and the beach? How does he bless us with the sun rise, and great friends to spend long, hot days with? How does he bless us with all of these things, when we are sinners and have fallen short of the glory of God?

His mercy amazes me. So as a write this and look out the dining room window, to see the green grass(or weeds, whichever one you want to call it), the flowers, and the cloudless blue sky, I sit in awe of the mercy that he shows to us, so we can be blessed by what he has made for us to enjoy.

Romans 8:39- "Nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creationm will be able to separate is from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord."

~Thanks~ Little Miss Thing(aka Bailey)~Philippians 4:13~

New Banner/ header thing

2011-05-30T09:06:00.003-04:00

Do you like my new header thingy? I hope so. It took me forever it decide on something. The title, "Little Miss Thing," came from when Matt Bryant(my youth minister and photographer) was over taking pictures and that is what he called me while he was here. I just thought that it was cute! Anyway- have a nice Monday!

~Thanks for reading~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

Soul Surfer the book- By Bethany Hamilton herself

2011-05-26T15:33:00.003-04:00

I have suddenly found this amazing love for reading, and when I start a book I just can't put it down. I got Soul Surfer the book(which Bethany Hamilton wrote only one year after the attack when she was just 14) from the library YESTERDAY. And I'm done. Hehe...I really couldn't put it down. It was absolutely amazing, and not a very hard read at ALL. It was 213 pages long, and every single page was fantastic. After seeing the movie(3 times) it was very neat to read what she was feeling during the whole movie, especially during the attack scene, which is very very short. If you have not read this book, I strongly recommend it. There is a whole chapter about her faith and why she is a Christian, and the last chapter talks about how she knows that God has a plan for her life. One of my favorite lines out of the book was, "I think that if I can help other people find hope in God, then that is worth losing my arm for." OK. WOW. Thats all I have to say about that. I read that and I was like, "Wow. Thats crazy." But at the same time you have to say, "How incredible. Someone has gone through a tragedy like that and can still praise God like that. Amazing." She is truly an inspiration to me, by her faith and really everything about her. I would go back and read this book again tomorrow. Except I am going to read Bridge to Terabithia(which probably means another book post)! Anyway- all this to say, Soul Surfer the book was amazing and you should read it. It is now one of my favorite books, but not better than Little Women of course!

~Thanks for reading~Bailey~Philippians 4:13~

P.S. You should go see Soul Surfer at a theater near you- I did a post about the movie too. Click here to see it: Soul Surfer the movie

Anna gray's epic giveaway

2011-05-26T09:15:00.003-04:00

Go visit one of my BFF's blog to see her AWESOME giveaway! She is giving away 10 awesome prizes, and she would love for you to join in on her fun!!! So go visit her blog by clicking on the link on the side of my blog! Thanks- Bailey

P.S. Who is excited that Scotty won American Idol? I am...let me make it clear that we never watch then show! But Scotty was from one of our church member's brother's church, so we were cheering for him! I thought that Lauren was really pretty though, and her voice was awesome! But we were cheering for Scotty.

P.S.S. My birthday is in two months...just saying. Alright I'm done now.

The Giving Tree

2011-05-21T19:56:00.010-04:00

"Once there was a tree, and she loved a little boy.
And everyday the boy would come, and he would gather her leaves,
and make them into crowns and play king of the forest.
He would climb up her trunk, and swing from her branches.
And eat apples, and they would play hide and go seek.
And when he was tired he would sleep in her shade.
And the boy loved the tree, very much.
And the tree was happy.

But time went by.
And the boy grew older, and the tree was often alone.
Then one day the boy cam to the tree, and the tree said, "Come boy, come and climb up my trunk and swing from my branches and eat my apples and play in my shade and be happy."
"I am too big to climb and play," said the boy, "I want to buy things and have fun. I want some money. Can you give me some money?"
"I am sorry," said the tree, "but I have no money. I only have leaves and apples. Take my apples, Boy, and sell them in the city. Than you will have money and you will be happy."
And so the boy climbed up the tree and gathered her apples and carried them away.

And the tree was happy.
But the boy stayed away for a long time...and the tree was sad.
And then one day the boy came back and the tree shook with joy and she said, "Come boy, climb my trunk and swing from my branches and be happy."
"I am too busy to climb trees," said the boy. "I want a house to keep me warm," he said, "I want a wife and I want children, and so I need a house. Can you give me a house?"
"I have no house," said the tree, "The forest is my house, but you may cut off my branches and build a house, then you will be happy."
And so the boy cut off her branches, and carried them away to build his house.

And the tree was happy.
But the boy stayed away for a long time.
And when he came back , the tree was so happy, she could hardly speak.
"Come, Boy," she whispered, "come and play."
"I am too old and sad to play," said the boy.
"I want a boat that will take me far away from here. Can you give me a boat?"
"Cut down my trunk and make a boat," said the tree. "Then you can sail away...and be happy."
And so the boy cut down her trunk and made a boat and sailed away.

And the tree was happy, but not really.
And after a long time the boy came back again.
"I am sorry, Boy," said the tree, "but I have nothing left to give to you. My apples are gone."
"My teeth are too weak for apples," said the boy.
"My branches are gone," said the tree. "You cannot swing on them."
"I am too old to swing on your branches," said the boy.
"My trunk is gone," said the tree, "You cannot climb."
"I am too old to climb," said the boy.
"I am sorry," sighed the tree. "I wish that I could give you something...but I have nothing left. I am just an old stump. I am sorry..."
"I don't need much now," said the boy, "just a quiet place to sit and rest, I am very tired."
"Well," said the tree, straightening up herself as much as she could, "well an old stump IS good for sitting and resting. Come, Boy, sit down. Sit down and rest."
And the boy did.

And the tree was happy. The end."

First off, if you read all of that- I am impressed! Anyway- I absolutely love this book. I always have. But yesterday as I thought about this book, I had a different thought.

My thought was, that we should be like this tree. God calls us to be like this tree. We need to give, and give, and give, until we have nothing left. And we should give to make others happy, and while we give we need to be happy. Give to those around us, give to those out of the country. From adopting a child, to taking a meal to someone, or even just making a card. We need to give.

Give until we have nothing left to give. Just like this tree, The Giving Tree.

~Thanks for reading~Bailey~Philippians 4:13~

Coming to the end

2011-05-19T08:40:00.003-04:00

I am coming near the end. And I am so very sad. This has been one of the best books I have ever read, actually, it has been the best book I have ever read. I am on page 542, and there are 594 pages(I think)! It has taken me a very long time to read it, but it was absolutely worth it. There have been sad parts, and happy parts, and some parts that are a bit boring, but I loved it anyway.

Little Women, has most definitely been the best book and longest book I have ever read. I would highly suggest reading it if you are over the age of 11, because it is so very long. But is so very good. Four sisters and their parents. One young boy and his grandfather. And many lessons to be learned, for the characters in the book and the reader!

~Thanks for reading~Bailey~Philippians 4:13~

P.S. If you have read it, I would love to know what you thought about it. Oh, I will be watching the movie very soon too!

Promised post

2011-05-11T20:38:00.002-04:00

WOW...three posts in one week??? Crazy right? Anyway- Tuesday we put up our big blow-up slide that we got last year. It was actually warm enough to turn the water on too!!! Finally, summer is right around the corner, which means school is almost over- YAY!!! Now onto the pictures!

A full length picture of the slide.

Mid-jump shot of Sonia! She has been loving the slide this year, last summer she was a little scared of it!

William almost falling off of the end!

A picture of all of the kids, that was before I went down, and got soaking wet.

Sorry it took me so long to write this post, but our computer was acting up! I hope that you enjoyed the pics! Thanks for reading-Bailey

Please Pray for Emily

2011-05-11T07:12:00.002-04:00

Emily is 16 years old and is battling leukemia. She was diagnosed with it last year, and up until now she seemed to be getting better, well very slowly. She recently found out that her leukemia is getting worse, and that the chemo that they will have to be doing will be worse than what she has been experiencing.

I ask that you lift her and her family up in prayer as they go through this journey together.

Pray that she will have strength.

Pray that she will feel God right along side her.

Pray that everyone in her family will have courage.

Pray that if it is God's will that she will heal and the cancer will go away completely.

She lives in England, think how cool it is that she has people in America praying for her to heal. Isn't God just AWESOME!

Think about it, what if our prayers were answered? What if she was completely healed, and she never had to deal with caner again? Wouldn't that be just awesome?

If you click on the button on the side of my blog that is titled, "Pray for Emily," you will go to her blog. There you can read more about her treatment.

Please, please, please just spend a few minutes right now to pray for Emily. If you would like, I would love if you joined me in doing a blog post for her. Just spread the word as fast as you can, she really needs your prayers!

Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through him who gives me strength." God can do anything, and if everyone prays for Emily, it will be amazing what God will do.

Thanks everyone- Bailey

Mom's Day

2011-05-10T14:43:00.004-04:00

Well here is my mother's day post...two days late! But hey- it's the thought that counts right? Haha...anyway we had a fabulous mother's day even though all we had for lunch was pizza! It's kinda hard when your dad is a pastor to actually cook mother's day lunch. Later my dad's brother, two sister's, my grandparents, and all the grandkids came to our house for dinner. There are 13 grandkids. Not. Kidding. We had a blast! We played a 20 person game of kickball...it was the best kickball game I've ever played(even though our team lost. I'm not bitter(said with sarcasm).
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Mommy-

First of all you are just awesome. You have invested your life into so many other people(bottom pic) and even as they go off to college you still make sure that they every meal, that they are not staying up to late, and are doing their home work. Now you teach the 7th graders and are pouring your heart out to them, wanting them to be Godly men and women when they grow up. Every day you deal with the four us, and some how manage to love us at the end of the day. You spend so much time on other people, and barely spend any time on yourself! I know sometimes you would rather be doing other things, but you still do them anyway! I don't know how I could manage without you as my mom. I love you mater(mother in latin, I call her that all the time), and always will!

I hope everyone had a fantastic mother's day! I will post tomorrow about our fun sliding adventure we had this morning(pics will be included)! Thanks for reading- Bailey

Amazing Day

2011-05-02T17:54:00.002-04:00

I have had an amazing day!

1. Was done with school by 12:00!
2. Got an adorable handmade ring in the mail from one of my mom's good friends!
3. Spent $17 dollars at Mighty Dollar on craft stuff, all the stuff I got would have been at least $50 at Hobby Lobby(gotta love a good sale)!
4. Got a delicious frozen pink lemonade from McDonald's for only 2 bucks!
5. Started my day off by reading my bible and doing my devotional!

All of that adds up to be an amazing day in my opinion! Just thought I would let you know how my day is going! Hope you have had a great day as well.

~Bailey~Philippians 4:13~

But most of all...

2011-04-27T11:29:00.004-04:00

I love babies, and small children.
I love making cards.
I love hugs from Paige Kriegal.
I love when Amanda and Nick are over, it feels like the whole family is home.
I love spending time in God's word.
I love hanging out with my best friends.
I love to learn almost everything except for Logic and Math.
I love to watch Chick-flicks that make you cry happy tears.
I love macaroni and cheese.
I love long, warm days at the pool.
I love the Beach, its like my favorite place in the whole world.
I love my parents.
Most of the time I love my brothers.
I absolutely love my sister with my whole heart.
I love to babysit.
I love to play hymns and disney music on my upright piano.
I love picture books.
I love to listen to music, especially Taylor Swift and music about Jesus.
I love classical.
I love afternoons at home.
I love bubble baths.
I love long, hot, showers.
I love anatomy and chemistry.
I love PINK!
I love clothes.

But most of all, I love Jesus.

The end.

~Bailey~Philippians 4:13~

**I would like to clarify that I really do LOVE my brothers, and don't love my sister any more than them!!!

We're DONE!!!!

2011-04-26T08:36:00.004-04:00

(from left to right, top to bottom) Josh, Garrett, Eric, Ryan, Anna Gray, ME, and Taylor!!!

Well with Mock Trial that is! Mock Trial was something that we had to do this semester for school. Our whole Challenge B class had to participate, and let me tell you, it was, as someone else put it, the Super Bowl of the 8th grade! Haha, it was very hard, but I feel like I have learned a lot through it. We did lose the trial, which means we won't move on, but I am honestly kinda glad that we lost. I really don't think that I could have done that again. Whew, it was soooo stressful. But next year I am going to help the next 8th grade class prepare for Mock Trial!

I would like to thank Eve Finch for helping us prepare for Mock Trial. She was such an encouragement to us, and she taught us so much through the whole year. I am truly going to miss her being my teacher next year!

I would also like to thank my parents for coming to see us in Mock Trial, and helping me throughout the entire year! Honestly, i can't believe I will be in high school next year, but I guess I can't make myself stop growing up!

The last people I would like to thank are all of my friends who were praying for us yesterday, and all of the people that were there to support us last night!

Thanks again to everybody!

~Bailey~Philippians 4:13~

You like?

2011-04-23T09:28:00.001-04:00

Do you like my new background??? I got it from shabbyblogs.com! They have so many cute blog backgrounds, it was so hard to choose one. I figured that since spring was coming and everything is changing that is was time for a blog change! Anyway- enjoy your Saturday!

~Philippians 4:13~Bailey~

Just life....

2011-04-19T20:33:00.003-04:00

So. Not much has been going on here lately...except for the TORNADO that was about 2 hours away from our house on Saturday- whew...it didn't come near us! OK, maybe I lied...there hasn't been many exciting things going on here lately, but there has been lots going on!

* I finished Challenge B (insert that graduation song that they play when some one graduates from high school- for dramatic effects), because this is, in fact, my last year in MIDDLE SCHOOL!!! Woot, woot, I will be in 9th grade next year! I must say, this year has been challenging, but I have thoroughly enjoyed it! I have learned so much...and made some friendships that I will never loose. Especially my teacher, Ms. Finch...we don't call her that though, we call her Eve(which is her first name)! I just love her!!!!

* I made an A+ on all of my exams today!! Yay- I was worried about those!

*About 2 weeks ago I finished my second and third sewing projects. A matching dress for Sonia and one of my American Girls! They are so cute...Sonia looks adorable in her's!

* Sonia turned three last week! She is getting so big, so very fast! I got her some furniture for her dollhouse. This weekend she kept saying, "Momma, my birthday over," with the saddest expression on her face. Haha- just wait til she realizes that you have to wait a whole year for your birthday to happen again, its a sad day!

* Both of my brothers passed Memory Masters(school-classical) and passed the State level of Bible Drill(church)...yay for William and J-man!!!

* I finished my short story! It is amazing, well at least to me. It was not very hard to write, it helps that writing comes very easily to me too! I wrote the story in about 2 weeks, well maybe 3 counting editing it! If you would like to read it let me know!

There you go- an update on my life! I will leave you with a few pics from Sonia's birthday!

Opening presents...

Blow out the candles and make a big wish!

The beautiful birthday girl on her 3rd Birthday!!!

~Thanks for reading about my life~Philippians 4:13~Bailey~

Soul Surfer!

2011-04-11T20:34:00.003-04:00

You have heard about Bethany Hamilton, the girl who got her arm bitten off by a shark and continued to surf, right? They made a movie about her called Soul Surfer! We went to see it Sunday night. And let me tell you, It was one of the best movies I have seen in a long time! Her story is just incredible, and how she keeps her faith in God through the whole incident is just amazing! They did a very good job showing how much she trusted in God, and how she knows that every thing that happened through her arm, was all for the glory of God.

Pros: Very good job showing her faith. Her story is incredible, and it really encouraged me to know that everything God does has a purpose. Even if it seems terrible at the time. She references to bible verses several times. And the acting is fantastic! I was very glad that the scene where they show her arm be bitten off was not very detailed. You see the shark coming up, her facial expression and then blood in the water. Not bad at all. PROMISE!!!!

Cons: Honestly, I didn't find anything bad about it. There were no profanities or inappropriate scenes(besides her parents kissing 2 times). The girls that were surfing did wear bikinis, but they were not at all distracting. I would not take children 6 or 7 and under. They would probably get bored.

I absolutely loved it, and my dad and brother William( age 11) loved it too. If you want to see an encouraging story of a girl, who I believe will change the lives of others, I strongly suggest you go see this movie! Her courage to get back out in the water after the incident makes me know that people can do it, they can put their faith in God and CAN DO ANYTHING!

Please go see this movie! You will love it, I promise!!!! Oh- I almost cried 3 times, just to warn you!

Philippians 4:13- I can do anything, through him who gives me strength!

Jeremiah 29:11- For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord! Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you a hope and a future!

http://bethanyhamilton.com/

~Thanks for reading~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

This week

2011-04-05T08:15:00.002-04:00

This week I will not be posting. The Spores(read post directly below) got here yesterday, and we had so much fun together. I am so glad that they are coming to visit us for the week!!! We were in Raleigh and we went to several of the museums and also had delicious snow cones together outside in the HOT weather. Yes, it is finally warm here...ahhh my kinda weather. Yay...! Anyway- I gotta go do school! Bye-
~Psalm 56:3~Bailey~

Excited :):):)

2011-03-30T14:17:00.003-04:00

We have some dear friends coming in very soon.
I have never met one of them. But I know that we will be fantastic friends.
We spent over 2 weeks with them the first time we met.
On this trip we got the 6th member of our family.
(heres a hint at who is coming)

I have done a post about the Spores before. Chad, Heidi, Hallie, and Cooper are all coming to see us! Hallie and I have been email pen-pals and we are meeting for the first time. I couldn't be more excited about them coming. Its all I can think about...seriously its like my brain waves are saying, "What are Hallie and I going to do when they are here? What are we going to eat? What time will they be here? Oh, wow I am so excited!"

No kidding. Its so exciting that I get to meet one of my super awesome friends for the first time. And get to see Heidi, Chad and Cooper again after a year and 1\2!!! Anyway- I'm done now. Gonna go read Little Women, which by the way, if you haven't read you need to read it soon!

Psalm 56:3~Bailey~

Not something most people would say, but...

2011-03-21T17:43:00.004-04:00

I...

love...

the dentist!

Happy Birthday to....

2011-03-16T20:43:00.004-04:00

...Amanda! I don't have a big sister. But really I have two. It makes no sense I just do. The first is Paige Kriegal. The second( you probably guessed) is Amanda, thats who this post is written about. I have known Amanda since I was 5 years old. She was our babysitter, and still is. She holds a very special place in my heart. One that will always be here. She is my sister, and will always be. She is getting married in very soon, and I get the honor to be one of her brides maids. She is getting married to Nick(may I say that they are perfect together), these are two of their engagement pics from a few months ago!

Aren't they so cute! I love the second one...so cute! I am so glad that I have Amanda in my life to play the role of a big sister for me.
Thanks for every thing you have done for me Amanda, I love you so much(well like a big sister of course)!
Happy Birthday and have a great day! ~ love Bailey

My Sister

2011-03-13T10:16:00.002-04:00

*very quick post

I'm just saying I have the best sister ever...yes she is two. She is stinkin' adorable. Right now she is standing in the kitchen singing to the Passion 2011 cd(get this cd...its awesome). Too cute...just saying!

Have a good Sunday~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

Only at our Kitchen table....

2011-03-12T09:03:00.002-05:00

Only at our kitchen table do you find a Little People circus toy, with a catapult shooting a puppy.

Only at our kitchen table do you find a baby doll, stuffed giraffe, and rabbit having a tea party.

Only at our kitchen table do you find another baby doll, using a calculator and wearing toe socks on her hands.

We are a fun family.
We are not a boring family.
If you come to my house, there is no guarantee that it will be clean...but we always have fun!

For example, going out to dinner. Then going to an awesome store call Swoosies! After that we went to Granny's donuts and coffee, which is in our small little town. We had a fun family night last night. This morning we watched Ella Enchanted(p.s. great movie)!

We also sing random songs very early in the morning. (we make them up) You can see we are not boring, actually we are VERY weird...and so fun!

~Thats all for today...have a great Saturday~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

One Word Wednesday

2011-03-09T16:03:00.005-05:00

(use this button to go and link up with Hannah on One Word Wednesday)

I thought I would have a bit of fun and join Hannah @ Aspire in One Word Wednesday! On with the picture.....

This is a collage of all the picture that Paige and I took when we had our special day before she left for college! So cute and so many happy faces....on this day we also died her dog's tail and paws pink!! It was awesome and we had a ton of fun.

Go join in on the fun if you want to.....have a great Wednesday!

~Thanks for reading~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

D*Weekend 2011

2011-03-06T14:47:00.002-05:00

Sooooo....last year I did a very special post. It was about D*weekend! That just happened this Friday and Saturday....soooo much fun! We met at our large group area(this year at the Baptist Children's home near us) and hung out with my wonderful friends from church until the service started. We had an AMAZING band....The Nate Huff Band, pretty cool! On Saturday we had 2 more services and free time, and of course breakfast, lunch and dinner. During free time we made picture frames...and may I say they are sooooo very cute. We found the frames at Mighty Dollar, they are silver and we decorated them so cute. I love mine, and all the others girl's too! Four of my friends went, one other was supposed to be there but she couldn't make it....tear, tear(we missed you friend)! Also my awesome Sunday School teachers were there(Kristi and Diane...love you both). We stayed at one of their houses, but it was just the girls, the boys stayed somewhere else. Worship was amazing. We talked about being a slave for Christ, and giving up everything in order to praise him. It was so awesome, the worship was really really really good. They sang one of my favorite songs, "How he Loves" by David Crowder! It is like our youth group's "song"...you know, its a special song to all of us! Anyway- I will post some pictures later, but for now I am going to try to stay awake for the rest of the day(we will see how that works out-ha).

Thanks for reading and have a wonderful Sunday~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

P.S. Click on the link below to see last year's post:

D*Weekend 2010

Come on April

2011-02-27T07:10:00.003-05:00

Ok, so seriously, I can't wait until April(you know the month) rolls around! For 2 reasons:

1. It will be Sonia's 3rd birthday, her second with us
2. The Spore's are coming for the marriage conference at our church...which means we get to see them after a year and a half!!!!! yay...

The Spores were one of our travel partners when we went to Rwanda. In those 2 weeks, the Spores weren't just friends, they became more like family to us. We have missed them so much, and I am soooo excited to get to see them again. Also, their oldest daughter Hallie and I have become email pen pals. Hallie, being the awesome friend that she has become to me, saved up half of the money for a plane ticket to come with her parents to meet me!!!!! How awesome is that? They will be coming, I think, it is the first Wednesday in April and staying over the weekend!!!!! I am soooooo excited to get to see them!!!! YAY!

Anyway, those are the reasons I really want April to come FAST. Have a wonderful Sunday everyone!

~Thanks for reading~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

Confession

2011-02-18T16:10:00.004-05:00

I have something to tell you all....its no biggie, but I feel like you should know.

I absolutely love Taylor Swift. Her music is amazing. She is gorgeous. And she has a great voice(which would tie in with the fact that her music is amazing)! In fact, she is going to be in Greensboro, in concert....ahhhh so awesome! You know what? I am not going. Do you want to guess how much the tickets are...?

$95....yes thats right....$95! If they were cheaper, I would have purchased tickets and known what I was wearing already! Haha, since I am not going me and my friends(who also couldn't go because we are teenagers and we don't have the money to buy a $95 concert ticket...) are going to have a girls night. We will listen to her music, do nails, watch movies and fun girlie things like that! For now I will leave you with a link to a music video of my personal favorite...Love Story! Its so romantic and I just love it!

Taylor Swift- Love Story

I hope that you thoroughly enjoyed it! Have a great weekend!

~Thanks for reading~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

P.S. I was going to put the video on my blog, but it cut part of the video off, so you can click on the link and be able to see the whole thing!

Hope you all are having a LOVEly day!

2011-02-14T17:27:00.002-05:00

Since today is Valentines day I'm gonna do a post about the things I love! If you would like to join me, please do...it would be great fun!!!

1. My family(Mom, dad, brothers, Sonia)
2. A house, clothes, and bible
3. Being able to go or do school
4. My friends
5. A wonderful church family

I would love to read what you love this valentines day...so feel free to join in! I hope you all are having a great day and beginning to this week. Here, it is just beautiful about 65 degrees and is supposed to be around high 50s and low 60s this week...yay!!! I can wear my flip-flops! Its a great day when you can wear flip-flops. Anyway, its been pretty crazy around here! My brother has a mild case of the flu...I'm just praying I don't get it. School is good, so is piano, and life is good too! I have recently found that I LOVE Taylor Swift...so great! Love Story and Fearless are my faves by her. You are probably bored of reading me talk...so I'll try to post again soon!

~Thanks for reading~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

Winter Jam

2011-02-06T10:06:00.004-05:00

This was one of the pictures we took at Winter Jam last night. The quality is not to good because our camera is not great and the lighting is really bad in the room. It was really cool, even though we were sitting behind the stage and all we could see was the back of all of the singers, and the screen facing us. I enjoyed it though, this was my first year going and there were like 21,000 people there...yes that is a lot. It took us 45 minutes to find a spot to sit....and we ended up behind the stage....grrr. Then I missed Francesca Battestelli. I was soooo mad, but thats ok. I did get to see David Crowder, which was amazing, and the Newsboys were pretty good. I didn't care so much for Red- at all. The rest was pretty good, better than I thought. My advice to you if you ever go is to get there at like 12:00 and wait in line all day to be able to get a decent spot. I think I would have enjoyed it more if I could have had a better spot and have been able to see the singers. We didn't get there till like 4:30, bad choice.

Oh, the Newsboys were really cool when they used cranes to lift the guys playing instruments up in the air and they sang Mighty to Save...that was amazing. David Crowder sang How he loves us and a few other of my faves by him. Let me tell you how crazy he looks, he has a beard and his hair is about 3 inches tall and he always has it spiked on top of his head. Yes, he looks crazy, but his music is AWESOME. I got to see 1 and 1\2 songs from Francesca Battestelli and what I saw was really good, she is so pretty. Seriously man...its crazy.

If you decide to go next year here is some advice:

If you are taking more than two people bring at least 30-50 dollars for food (ok- maybe slight exagerration!)
Get there at 12:00 to get decent seats
If you would like to sneak in snacks put them in the inside pockets of your jacket
Go to the bathroom before the breaks or else you will never get in a stall
Buy their cotton candy cause it was amazing...even though it was 5 bucks

Thats all I can think of for now. If you went I would love to know what you thought.

Thanks for reading~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

One Person

2011-02-01T16:17:00.002-05:00

**Please read this post....I know its long but you will love it, and you might be changed after reading it....

I am reading this book for school. It is about evolution and Darwinists. I didn't think that it was very interesting until today when we watched a movie called, "Expelled." Now you might think it sounds extremely boring and I thought it would be too, but it is very interesting. It is a documentary about people trying to prove evolution wrong. It gives stories of people who got fired for saying the word "Intelligent design" or "Intelligent creator" in their classrooms, even if they weren't Christians and didn't teach creationism. It also talks about how Hitler, in the Holocaust, was very much a Darwinist. One part in the movie it shows one of the concentration camps...it was where all of the handicap or mentally disabled people lived. Hitler believed that these people should not live, so he killed them. The movie showed where they were killed and how they were killed, I'm not going to share with you all of them information because it was very brutal and gross. But because of Darwinism, which Hitler believed, he killed these people who had a purpose to live, God wanted them here. The people were saying that evolution is the way to believe because there is no way there could be a God who created everything but came out of no where, and then they question our beliefs. Then they go on saying how a single cell existed out of no where and made everything. How can you say that an infinitely powerful being or man, who we call God, cannot be there, but a single cell, with the complexity that is in a cell, could just be there? It makes you mad....simply mad. You want those people to give up their belief in Darwinism, and except the truth that God created everything and no one else did. Honestly you want these people not to exist so they can't tell others about Darwinism. But, God has a purpose for them to be alive. Maybe on their death bed someone will turn them to Christianity and they will get to spend eternity with Christ. If they don't they bible says that every knee will bow and worship God, so these people who believe in Darwinism will see God one day and God will ask them, "What were you thinking, how could anything else have created such a complex universe?" At the end of the movie the guy, Ben Stein(the main character) says that you are just one person. You may be 10, or 40 but you are ONE PERSON, one person can convince a Darwinist that creationism is the truth and he may become a Christian. That makes two people what if both of those people go and turn two other people to Christianity. That makes 4 people, and it keeps going and going. You are ONE PERSON and you CAN make a DIFFERENCE. Creationism can be taught in our classrooms, more people could become Christians. I know it to be absolutely true, it can happen, I promise. You can help change the world. Because you are ONE PERSON and God has a purpose for your amazing life that he created.

~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~(and Genesis 1:1 and 1:31...)

Nothin' Much

2011-01-22T07:53:00.002-05:00

There's really nothin' much that I have to post about today. So I'll tell you what I've been doing lately!

Lets see....I started sewing class two weeks ago with two of my very close friends. I am going to make Sonia a dress and a matching one for one of my American girls.

Classical also started back this week, and Science is a pain the in behind...just sayin'. We do get to write a short story though, and I am so excited. Mine is about an 18 year old girl who works on the family farm in the mornings and evenings but teaches at the local school in the afternoons. When the superintendent of schools comes he offers her a job in Boston. Then the farm hand who has worked for them since she was 8 years old gets hurt she has to stay and care for him. After he gets better she leaves to go teach, but soon finds out that she hates it...will she choose to stay or go home, and be with the one that she surprisingly has fallen in love with.
It's called The Choices of Love...hehe!!

Sonia is growing up so very fast, she is talking up a storm when she is not eating and loves to play baby dolls or american girls with me when I'm not doing school. Oh, she calls herself Gonia not Sonia and when we tell her to say Sonia she will say S-Gonia. We have figured out that she knows how to say her name but doesn't want to.

I got two new pair of shoes the other day. One pair are black flats with a tad bit of a heel. And the other are brown flats with bows on them. They are sooo cute.

Hmmm...Oh, the boys stared basketball this week at our Church. They seem to like it, but I wasn't at their practice.

I have been texting all of the time with my friends, when I'm not doing school. It's so fun to be able to talk to them whenever I want.

I think thats about it for today...wow I talk alot! Thanks for reading my ramblings~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

Memories

2011-01-07T18:35:00.003-05:00

On the 30th of December my mom's former high school Seniors that she taught in the youth, all came over for dinner. When ever I see them I think about babysitting the Beaver children( the Beavers were my mom teaching partners) while they all met for bible study. I remember watching all of us trying to get dinner before bible study...you can't imagine how much food we ate each week. I remember all of them getting off the plane after getting back from Honduras last June. I remember their class wining the Skate Night competition...I was sooo mad! But most of all I remember what all of them have taught me through their mistakes and good choices, the good times we have had together, and the memories that will come. I have grown so close to her entire class, and I love them all deeply. This was one way I became so close to Paige, Mary, and all of the other girls, was seeing them mature in their faith, encouraging me to do the same.

From left to right: Ashley, Me, Kayla, Sarah, Sam, Paige, and Mary. These are all of my moms girls in her class...the ones I love dearly.

There are boys, but we don't have any good pictures of them! I am so thankful God put these people in my life!

~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

Happy 2011

2011-01-01T09:00:00.002-05:00

Most people say, "Happy new year," so I decided to say, "Happy 2011." Just something a bit different. Anyway, how was your 2010?? Mine was great...we had camp, my birthday(which is obviously a yearly thing), great Christmas, the Beach...and all sorts of fun stuff! This year I have a few main goals...if they don't happen it won't be a biggie, but here it goes!

1. To win Mock Trial(don't ask what it is, because it would take way to long to explain.)
2. To win the Science Fair, I am doing a project to see if siblings have similar fingerprints(it was for Challenge).
3. To get rid of my headaches.
4. To have family photos made of our whole family...yes Sonia has been home for a year and we still have not had family pics made.
5. To get along with my brothers.

I think thats about it. The first two are 50-50 chance(meaning they could and couldn't happen). But those are the things I would love to happen this year!

I hope you all have a wonderful 2011; making many memories with your family, and growing closer together. Thanks for reading~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

Still Here

2010-12-28T09:41:00.002-05:00

The toys are being played with.
All of the cousins are at home.
The tree is down.
The presents are gone.
All of the gifts have been opened.
The Christmas cds sit still until next year.
The Christmas movies on TV are no longer showing.
The lights are in the attic.
The wreath no longer shines.
The excitement is missing.

But Jesus is still here. Living, protecting us, every day.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T09:56:00.006-05:00

I hope that you all are having a wonderful time with your family this morning! I just wanted to share with you what I got for Christmas! It is pretty awesome, so you might want to prepare yourself! Here we go:

First off I got a new Vera Bradley from one of our close family friends! Isn't it cute...!

All of this stuff is from Thirty One, a personalization company. I got stationary, address stickers, a new lunch box, and a tote for craft supplies.

3 new shirts from Aeropostale, I am wearing one of them.

These are my stocking stuffers, twistables, the colored pencil ones, new earbuds for my ipod, a Tangled book, and eye shadow.

Last but not least......drum roll please......A CELL PHONE!!!! I was so excited. My parents put the number in a box and when I called it, the phone rung in my purse!! It was the best Christmas present EVER!!! Isn't it cute...if you have a cell phone with a case, where did you get your case? Just wondering...

Overall it was a very good Christmas. Sonia and the boys were thrilled with their presents!

A kid again

2010-12-17T07:52:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I feel like a kid again. Those older than me would say that I am still a kid, but I see myself as a teenager(after all I am 13). On Christmas eve, when little kids can barely wait to open their presents the next day, I still feel the same way. When you wake up on Christmas morning and you see 6:15 on the clock and you know that it is Christmas morning and you are so excited, and even though your parents told you not to, you go wake your siblings up so you can go open presents. I still feel the same way. When your parents put all the presents under the tree, and you wake up and shake them to try and guess what they are, you get so excited. I feel the same way, I do the same things. Even though some people don't see me as a kid, I feel like one at times, and I wish I could go back and do some of the things I used to do. For example, me and my best friend color when we watch movies together. I really want to go back to build a bear and make a monkey dressed with under wear and a little pink dress with bows in her hair, I would name her Bridget. Some days I want to go in my room and play american girls for hours. I want to play baby dolls with Sonia. There are so many things that make me act like a kid, things I want to do and things that make me feel like a child.

Do you ever feel the same?

~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

12 days till Christmas

2010-12-14T07:40:00.000-05:00

This morning I told Sonia that it was only 12 days until Christmas, she responds with, "NO WAY!!" That little girl cracks me up. Another thing...when I woke up my parents had wrapped all of our presents and put them under the tree! Sonia was looking at every one of them and if they were hers then she would pull them out and look at the wrapping paper. Anyway, just something to cheer you up this morning. ~Bailey~Psalm 56:3

One year

2010-12-12T09:24:00.003-05:00

One year ago today we said good-by to the Smiths at the Ethiopia hotel.
One year ago today we boarded a plane with our Sonia Grace.
One year ago today we ate nasty airplane food.
One year ago today we landed in the U.S., at Washington D.C.
One year ago today we ate American food for the 1 time in 2 weeks, it was Wendy's.
One year ago today we waved goodbye to the Spores (who I miss SO much).
One year ago today we landed in Raleigh NC.
One year ago today we saw my grandparents and Kim Hearn at the airport welcoming us home.
One year ago today we drove home to our house that we love so much.
One year ago today we knew that Sonia Grace would be with us forever.

One year ago today we got home with Sonia Grace, she has changed so much over the last year. It is incredible to think that she has been with us for 1 year. Some days it feels like more and some days it feels like less. The little girl that I prayed for 8 years for, has been with us for a whole year. She is so very funny, almost of the time extremely happy, but she is like a normal 2 year old. She throws fits, she hits, and occasionally bites. I have almost finished my job in training her to love baby dolls. Overall our love for her has grown every day, and will continue to.

~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

Angel pictures

2010-12-11T08:18:00.003-05:00

Sooo, last night was our first performance. We did PERFECT. Did not mess up once...although some people said my smile looked fake...who cares. I have 2 pictures, neither are me in my gown, but the lighting in the room we do it in is terrible for pictures...don't worry my mom is going to get some today. Here you go:

Oh one more cute thing. Last night I got off stage at the very end and Sonia runs up to me hugs me and says, "You dance have fun!" That little girl melts my heart. There is also this little boy who has a solo, he is 6 and he is talking to baby Jesus, he says,
"What can I give him, poor as I am? If I were a shepherd, I would give a lamb. What can I give him? I can give my heart!!!" So stinkin cute. Anyway...thanks for reading~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

Let the angeling begin

2010-12-09T07:02:00.003-05:00

Last night we had dress rehearsal for Merry Christmas North Carolina(our church Christmas program). I am an angel, and we were there for 3 hours...people the play is only 1 hour and 20 minutes. Besides it taking so long we had a great time, and I am really looking forward to this weekend! Thanks for reading~Bailey~Psalm 56:3~

A Note From the Author

I know you've been waiting...

Holding On...

And here I am again...

Just Life...

There you'll find me

Surrender...Passion 2012

Dear 2012,

Merry (late) Christmas!!!

The Star

Beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news...

Another Christmas thought...

Christmas...

It finally hit me...

The Reason Why...

Family Tree 2011...

Our Sonia Grace...

This Thanksgiving...

A Journey...part 1(of 4)

Yes, Lord.

And then we saw her...

Not Just a Number

The Moment

Let's go Happy Jump on a Curb at App!

Das not funny friday: Sonia Moments

Will you remember?

What you've all been waiting for...The choices of love part 7

Finally....The Choices of Love: part 6

More story is coming!

1 year ago today...

It never hurts...

The Choices of Love: Part 5

The Choices of Love: Part 4

Top Five Questions I'm asked as a homeschooler

The Choices of Love: Part 3

Reason

Welcome to "A Note From the Author!"

Ten years ago...

The Choices of Love: Part 2

Those Days...

The Choices of Love: Part 1

I'm a Writer...

Pray for a purpose...

Charmed Life series by Jenny B. Jones

At the end of the week...

Officially...

A summer in review...

I'm alive....

The coming 2(ish) weeks...

SUMMER WITH THE ARTS!!!!

Sisters...

Stop at 12:00 for Emily- update

Stinkin' Excited!!!

This week...ahhh quiet

WONDERSTRUCK:Taylor Swift

My Birthday present...

Called...

Storing up treasures...

To my daddy- from his little girl

A glimpse at the Summer...

Amanda and Nick Land's wedding!

An exciting weekend!

In the summertime

New Banner/ header thing

Soul Surfer the book- By Bethany Hamilton herself

Anna gray's epic giveaway

The Giving Tree

Coming to the end

Promised post

Please Pray for Emily

Mom's Day

Amazing Day

But most of all...

We're DONE!!!!

You like?

Just life....

Soul Surfer!

This week

Excited :):):)

Not something most people would say, but...