Sorry for the Furlough

Ok. so I am sorry, to the 5 of you who read my musings. I am so sorry for being away for so long. But it's been a time of trial, change, and faith in the Echols' house. Here's the scoop:

2 weeks before Christmas my wonderful boss pulled me in his office to tell me that my program was being closed. And ya'll, my boss is so great, he felt so bad. Of course, I was calm and cool in front of him, but inside I was screaming bloody murder. "OMG, how are D and I going to survive?!" So can ya tell I'm a worrying, melodramatic Melancholy? Oh and the icing on the cake was that I was ordered to not tell any of my staff. "What?" And remember, this is two weeks before Christmas.

So, I went home to D and cried and cried and cried and cried (I think you get the point). I thought we were going to have to move to Houston or something. Because, those of you who know me, know the nightmare that was my former employer and the only other hospital system in town. So, my wonderful husband was my rock of calm and faith. He just kept reminding me that God has brought us through very tough times before and we have always ended up in a better place. So I clung to that and my memory verse notebook.

We made it through Christmas and the New Year. Finally, on January 19th, my boss told my staff. But this is where it get's good...I found out I had a job the next day! Now I can't say what it is, but it is exactly what I want to do and will be awesome experience. Plus, it's only 5 minutes from the house. So God is sooooooooooooooooo good.

The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; (2 Samuel 22:2)

So, to conclude, this is where I've been for the past 2 months. I will now resume my random ramblings for your reading enjoyment.

Giving Back

A few weeks ago my Newly Married Sunday School class served at the Pool of Siloam medical ministry. It is a wonderful mission who provides free medical care, pharmaceuticals, durable medical equipment, dental care and much more. There is a clothes closet, meals program, etc. Here are a few pics from our time there. We didn’t serve in the clinic, we just helped the staff put together mailers to get the word out. Check out their website and see if you’d be interested in helping, you don’t have to be medically inclined to make a difference.

The Horror of Christmas Shopping

OK, the holiday shopping frustration has set in and I only have 3 gifts bought. I know, I sound ridiculous, but my recent experience has just put me in this mood. Let me elaborate…I decided to bring up the spirits in my office (they are so down ya’ll, it’s not even funny, pray for me) and decorate for Christmas. But company policy says we can only use battery operated Christmas tree lights. OK, no biggie, WRONG. I went to a few stores, hoping for a deal and they did not carry them. I thought that was fine, just looking for a deal, so I headed to Wally World. I mean Wally has everything, right? WRONG AGAIN. They have the miniature trees with all the trimmings and wreaths, but none of the battery operated lights that go with them. So I had to head up the street to the pricey Hobby store and get them.

I know, it sounds silly, but when you are shopping on your lunch hour in 3 inch heels, it’s quite frustrating.

OK, it’s off my chest and I feel better now, thanks for listening (reading). Let me know of your holiday shopping frustrations. Whine to me instead of everyone else, I’m sure they will all appreciate it. Happy shopping.

I've gone freaking coo coo! Here is another awesome song, that I am sure speaks to many. You're Not Alone by Meredith Andrews.

Hey everyone! I am so dangerous. I just figured out how to post my fav music and videos to posts. Here is my fav song at the moment by Addison Road, What Do I Know of Holy?

Beth Rocks!

Ok, Beth Moore's new Bible study, Esther: It's Tough Being a Woman is out. Lifeway AllAccess website is giving away a free Leader Kit. Check it out, you may win and could donate it to your church or other worthy cause after you've done it.

Progressive Dinner Christmas Party

I am so excited! My Church's Worship Choir is having a Progressive Dinner for our Christmas Party. I am a host home and need some help with decorating. Please submit any ideas (ex. tablelscape). I will be setting a table for 10! I know there are some very creative people out there and any of your ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.