Super Cool

So, Macy's is offering this really super cool and fun way to win $500 gift card from them every day! You just go to their website and click, at the bottom, the Macy's Fashion Director box. Once the page loads, select Take the Challenge, and create an outift appropriate for the scenario. Creating the outfits is super fun! Plus, who wouldn't want to win a $500 Macy's giftcard?

Being Broke

This whole not shopping/not having any money thing stinks. Granted, it isn't nearly as bad as I had first imagined it might be. I have always been addicted to shopping and realized that my well-being along with my pocketbook would both benefit if I tried to show a little restraint in that addiction. That being said, I'm continually 'window shopping' online. It helps to get rid of the cravings for a new outfit, handbag, or accessories. Here are a few things I'm currently wanting, but that my new practice for shopping won't allow:

I really want to take cooking classes. I know, I know. Marriage is a while away for me, and I don't even have my own kitchen BUT I would love to be able to cook. Ya know, I would want everything to be organic and fresh. At least that's how I've always imagined it: me, little housewife and mom, cooking my family healthy, flavorful meals :)

Everything else on this list are purely selfish wants! haha Just in case you wondered.

earrings-Forever21 $4.80

comfy tee-American Eagle $10

Complete outfit-American Eagle $69.90

scarf-Anthropologie $28

sleep pants-Anthropologie $48

Necklace-Anthropologie $58

Cardigan-Anthropologie $98

Dress-Forever21 $29.80

Military Blazer-Forever21 $16.60

And last, but definitely not least...MCAnnaD wants a miniature Schnauzer. Aren't they the most precious things in the WORLD?

So...

...isn't it wild how one simple, tiny song can put you in an incredible mood?! Well, for me, that song is 'Elanor Rigby' by The Beatles. (Speaking of The Beatles, I've been considering here lately naming all my future children after people in Beatles songs. Either that or naming them all after States. haha) Yep, I'm serious. For some reason, the melody and harmonies in this song just get me pumped up. I am definitely most passionate about music and how it can move you. I think everyone should have a song that does that for them.

All Dressed Up

I want a suit, but only if I can wear it just like Sandra Bullock in this photo. Classy but oh so casual...

Music Makes Me Happy : )

These are a few of my most favorite song quotes at the moment. They brighten my day : )

I look around at what I got
And without you, it ain't a lot
But I got everything, with you, everything

from 'Get to Me' by Train

I’ll never let your head hit the bed without my hand behind it.

from 'Your Body is a Wonderland' by John Mayer

You are the best thing

That ever happened to me

from 'You are the Best Thing' by Ray LaMontagne

How dare you say that my behavior's unacceptable

So condescending, unnecessarily critical

I have the tendency of getting very physical
So watch your step cause if I do you'll need a miracle

from 'Harder to Breathe' by Maroon 5

And I wouldn't change a thing

I'd walk right back through the rain

Back to every broken heart

On the day that it was breakin'

And I'd relive all the years

And be thankful for the tears

I've cried with every stumbled step

That led to you and got me here, right here

from 'Here' by Rascal Flatts

Cause all that matters is

All that matters is

I know your love has set me free

And that's all that matters to me

from 'All That Matters' by Addison Road

Come close listen to the story

About a love more faithful than the morning

The Father gave his only son just to save us

The earth was shaking in the dark

All creation felt the Father's broken heart

Tears were filling heaven's eyes

The day that true love died, the day that true love died

When blood and water hit the ground

Walls we couldn't move came crashing down

We were free and made alive

The day that true love died, the day that true love died

from 'True Love' by Phil Wickham

Looking at my Gucci - it's about that time

from 'Still Fly' by Big Tymers

Love isn't borrowed, we aren't promised tomorrow

We'll never be ready if we keep waiting

For the perfect time to come

Won't be steady, we'll never be ready

from 'Never Be Ready' by Mat Kearney

Thunder only happens when it's raining.

from 'Dreams' by Fleetwood Mac

Straight up out the water in my Marc Jacobs goggles.

from 'Championship Pop Bottles' by Birdman featuring Lil Wayne

This kind of love it's what I dreamed about

Yeah, it fills me up

Baby it leaves no doubt

from 'This Kind of Love' by Sister Hazel

We run on fumes

Your life and mine

Like the sands of time

Slippin' right on through

And our love's the only truth

That's why I run to you

from 'I Run to You' by Lady Antebellum

Control yourself

Take only what you need from it

A family of trees wanted to be haunted

from 'Kids' by MGMT

Say ooh girl, shock me like an electric eel

Baby girl, turn me on with your electric feel

from 'Electric Feel' by MGMT

Everyday is a chance for a new stance

Like every song is the beginning of a new dance

And everyone of us was made to reflect the light

And glorify the most high so bright

We got one world ‘til its time to fly

So it's one love ‘til we say goodbye

One world its enough to share

‘Til the king calls us home and we're caught up in the air

from 'One World' by tobyMac

And we are His portion and He is our prize,

Drawn to redemption by the grace in His eyes,

If His grace is an ocean, we're all sinking.

And heaven meets earth like an unforeseen kiss,

And my heart turns violently inside of my chest,

I don't have time to maintain these regrets,

When I think about, the way…

That He loves us,

Oh how He loves us,

from 'How He Loves Us' by David Crowder Band

You and I were made to worship. You and I are called to love.

from 'Made to Worship' by Chris Tomlin

Jesus your name is power

Breath, and living water

from 'Revelation Song' by Kari Jobe

What makes you feel sexy?

Rascal Flatt's, 'Summer Nights' came on the iPod this morning on my adventure to work. I immediately thought about their concert that Jacob took me to a couple of weekends ago and pumped up the volume!

There's a line in the chorus that says, "Summer Nights...everybody feelin' sexy. So holler if you're ready for those Summer nights." And this got me to thinking. I do, in fact, feel sexiest on a Summer night. There is nothing like a racerback tank. I practically live in those during the summer. I feel that the sexiest thing about me are my shoulders and collarbones. And summer's the perfect weather for displaying them!

This weekend is gonna be one of renewal and cleansing for me. I’ve recently decided that I spend way too much money too frivolously. To start a new and keep from spending even more money, I cancelled a shopping trip with the bests for tonight. I mean, let’s face it. I’m practically broke anyways. I’ve got a lot on my plate financially right now. It just isn’t reasonable for me to spend my Friday night buying even more clothes to add to the growing collection that’s weighting my closet racks down (seriously, they’re sagging in the middle. Sad, right?).

So, you may wonder, ‘Did MCAnnaD just ditch Linds and Merica for the evening?’ Well, of course not! We’ve decided to have a complete girls’ night. It all kicks off at 6 tonight. We’re doing dinner at the Sicilian in Arab and following up with a gabfest at Linds’s. We’ll probably even end up breaking out the fingernail polish and giving ourselves pedicures (hint hint).

My ‘To Do’ list for the weekend is incredible. Don’t believe me? Just take a look here:

1. I’ve got to secure two dresses (preferably cocktail-esque) for a wedding Jacob and I have got to go to in Athens, Georgia next weekend. Girls’ night is going to carry over at Linds’s house after dinner. I’m bringing all the dress choices I already have, and I’m going to try on all of Linds’s dresses from her years as an ADPi. It’ll be like a mini runway show for Linds, Merica, and Lele. I’m overly confident in the fact that we’ll find two perfect dresses!
2. Clean out the closet…and when I say clean out, I mean take everything out, purge all the things I haven’t worn in a year or that are too small, and completely reorganize the set up of the closet.
3. I’m also going to clean out my jewelry box. The thing is stuff so full of necklaces on the side that the doors won’t close. Mom and I are gonna paint fashionable wall hooks to stick to the side of my bookshelf to hang the overflow necklaces on. In true MCAnnaD fashion, I’m gonna give the jewelry the same work over the closet got.
4. My chest of drawers and nightstand drawers also have to be cleaned out and organized.
5. I have to send Facebook messages to Jeselyn and Dee. Also, I’ve got to get a thread going for the people who are helping me with Cassie’s bridal shower. It’s only three weeks away!
6. I’ve got a lot of new tunes I wanna get downloaded. Gotta live in music this weekend!! It’s a great accessory for cleaning : )
7. Linds and I have a hair appointment date for 9 in the a.m. tomorrow.
8. Take dress back to the Belk Hudsons
9. Re-work my budget completely!! (This means less shopping, unfortunately : ( Hopefully this whole cleaning out the closet/jewelry box thing will help me to get a new outlook on how to fashion all my old clothes!!)
10. And, as is always needed, I’ve got to walk, walk, walk!! And not forget about the arms and sit-ups!!
11. Take two exams

See? MCAnnaD’s got a lot on her plate this weekend. Hopefully I can get it all done!!

March showers bring....???

You know what? I’m thankful for the rain. Seriously, I am. I know I’ve complained about it continually this week. And don’t get me wrong, I absolutely HATE that I haven’t been able to get out and walk for (today included) three days. I do see the rain as a good thing though. For many many reasons…

1. I see Christ in the rain. His never ending supply of rain (as it has seemed as of late) always reminds me that He is righteous and just to forgive me of my sins. I’m a girl who has known Christ since I was six. I’m talking…known Him personally. And ever since that time, I’ve still been a sinner. With my new life in Christ though, I’m renewed by God’s love and mercy every single day. The rain is so metaphoric for Christ’s action of washing away my sins. This is the number one reason I love the rain.
2. I live beside a wooded creek and across from the lake. Imagine walking out of my house during the morning. Now, imagine walking out of my house during the morning right after it’s rained. Everything’s still wet and really really green. Yep, that’s a pretty picture.
3. They always say April showers bring May flowers. So, does that mean that March showers bring Spring/Summer like weather? Because I’m beginning to really enjoy this change in temperature. Whether it’s raining or not, there’s no mistaking the excitement everyone’s catching because it’s mid 60s outside. For example, Brooke, Noah and I drove home from skits last night (this is around 8:30pm mind you) with the windows rolled down singing at the top of our lungs. And let me tell you this, it was comfortable!
4. Lastly, even though the rain keeps me from walking, it’s encouraged me to do other things to try and shape up. Case in point: HUGE exercise ball upon which I sit and do at least 100 sit-ups a day. Oh, and I’ve been working on my arms too : ) Just you wait! I’m gonna be in shape before we know it!!

Rain rain go away...

...MCAnnaD wants to walk today! She may even walk IN the rain! haha I just find that I sleep much more soundly when I've walked 3 miles. Maybe the rain will slack by 4:30.

Okay, so I'm stuff in a current fashion rut. I really don't know what's going on. I, MCAnnaD, am usually just fine picking things out. In fact, I always greatly enjoy the combinations I put together. Hmm...I guess this just happens sometimes. You may ask, 'MCAnnaD, what are you going to do about your current predicament?' I'll tell you exactly what imma do...

MCAnnaD is going to spend her weekend cleaning out her closet.

I've already went thru Haley's closet. I mean, she's on a mission trip for a year. We're the exact same size. What better way to shop than in her closet? She was ahead of a lot of this year's current trends too. I got to stock up on belts and vest. All that being said, those clothes are currently taking up space in the floor. I'm talking a HUGE pile. The aforementioned activity should clear up space for me to get these things off the floor and into the closet.

This cleaning out the closet feeling has spurred in me the urge to 'Spring Clean!!' I fear that this weekend will also be spent going thru and straightening drawers and under my bathroom sink. :) I'm sure I'll feel even freer after this weekend, right? It frankly can't seem to get her soon enough.

Here's a list of things I'm currently loving (ya know, just for fun!):

~Ke$ha's 'Blah, Blah, Blah' featuring 3OH!3

~belts, of any material, style, or color

~pepperoni and pepperjack cheese sandwiches on a wheat bun

~WalMart brand sour cream & onion potato chips-They're seriously the best I've ever had of that flavor!!

~miniature schnauzers

~reading my bests' posts

~starting and finishing a new book in one day :)

~wasting the time away on the book of faces

~daily three mile walks along Lake Guntersville

~anything Marc Broussard, Ray LaMontagne, or David Gray have to say about love via song...they've just got it right!

~scripture dives that reveal things I JUST need to hear

~planned, laidback shopping trips with my bests

So, it's aboslutely GORGEOUS outside today :) And it's like 70 degrees. This is a vast difference from the rain/snow and freezing weather we've been uncommonly experiencing lately. I'm gonna celebrate with a walking date with the iPod. I'm sure after pumping my legs along beside the lake to the tunes of Ray LaMontagne, Marc Broussard, and maybe some Gorilla Zoe, I'll feel even more excellent than I already do!

Manic Monday

~Do you listen to sad music when you are sad?

Negative. I honestly don’t think I find music to be sad. Any of it. Music is always an upper for my personality.

~When your friends are in a bad mood, can you tell?

Duh. What kind of friend are you if you can’t?

~When is the last time you were truly happy?

I’m truly happy right now. Sure. There are things I want. Things that I believe could make my circumstances even happier, but I’m too incredibly blessed to concentrate on those things.

~Are you wearing something that belongs to someone else?

Negative. Kinda strange too. Mom and I usually shop in one another’s closets. I guarantee she’s wearing something right now that belongs to me.

~Did you have a good day yesterday?

Yesterday started out really well, but had a couple of low spots. I got to see my Jacob yesterday morning, but then I had to drive home from Auburn and leave him (low spot). I also had to forgo a nap for a baby shower (another low spot). I got a lot of school work accomplished. Most importantly, I had an excellent conversation with Jacob about some changes I’m about to make. I believe they’ll enhance our relationship and only bring us closer together. : )

~How old is the last person that you kissed on the lips?

He’s just barely 24.

~What's under your bed?

Empty luggage, scrap books, photo albums, miscellaneous junk (like old notes from middle and high school, corsage ribbons, etc.) Under my bed has become the prime location for closet overflow as of late.

~Are you afraid to stay home all alone?

Funny you should ask. It used to not bother me a single bit to be home alone. I actually relished in it. I’ve found that I’m much more relaxed at home when I’m there by myself. That being said, my parents went out of town recently and Noah stayed at Gran’s leaving me home alone, overnight, for three nights. I didn’t hardly sleep. I kept hearing all these noises. I probably made it all up in my head, right? Haha Needless to say, I no longer like being home alone overnight! I need a babysitter for those events.

~Do you think you have made a difference in anyone's life?

Honestly, don’t we all hope that we have impacted someone for the better? That’s what being human, being able to love deeply and truly, and fulfilling God’s perfect will in our lives is all about.

~Do you want to get married?

Definitely. I am finally in a place, with the person I know I’m going to spend the rest of my life with, where I’m ready to make that commitment. As soon as it’s financially logical (aka we’re finished with school) it’ll happen.

~Did you have a dream last night?

Strangely enough, no. I usually dream all the time. It causes me to have restless nights where sleep is next to nonexistent. And recently, I’ve been having nightmares. Not cool, in case you were wondering. Last night though, I slept like a baby (and as far as I can remember, sleeping like a baby was wonderful).

~How many kids do you want to have?

I have the number 5 in my head for some reason. I like odd numbers.

~Were you happy when you woke up today?

Incredibly. I can’t even really explain to you why either. Other than the fact that God is soooo very good.

~Could you go the rest of your life without smoking a cigarette?

I’ve gone almost 24 years. So, yes.
~Did you sleep alone on New Year’s?

Nope. I was in a house full of my bests : )

~What is the last text you received?

It’s from Merica…’yeah except I hate knee highs ick’

~What are you doing for your next birthday?

I don’t have a clue. I would love to have a destination weekend birthday celebration though since mine is on a Friday this year. (hint hint)

~Plans for tomorrow?

Hmm...tomorrow is Tuesday. I will work from 8 til 4:30, probably do a little 3 mile walk/jog, dinner with the familia, work on some homework, and watch Idol.

~Would you rather get a new puppy or a new car?

I would love a miniature schnauzer! I’d name him or her Max.

~What were you doing this morning at 7am?

I was in the shower, trying to figure out what I was going to wear to work today. I settled on my new shoes, jeans, a vneck orange tee, and lots of jewelry.

~The last time you were at the mall, what all did you get?

I honestly can’t remember the last time I was at the mall. Oh goodness, what’s wrong with me?! That’s how long it’s been since I’ve really shopped. I’m going to do a little retail therapy Friday with Merica and Linds. I’ve gotta get some wedding-in-March appropriate dresses.

~Do you have a tan?

That’s a negative, ghostrider. I’ve decided to try the whole ‘pale is the new tan’ look. What do ya think?

~Do you like calling or texting better?

texting

~How do you feel right now?

I’m incredibly happy and having a great day. My head is starting to hurt a little though. It needs to STOP!

~What song did you hear last?

Johnny Cash by Jason Aldean

~Are you a fan of iced coffee?

I’m not a fan of coffee, period. I wish I could acquire the taste for it though. I feel like it could be, in some way, better for me than 4 cokes a day. Yep, I’ve got a problem.

~What are you plans for this weekend?

I’ve got a girl’s shopping trip Friday afternoon/night, hair appointment Saturday morning, and I’m gonna try and tackle my closet Saturday evening.

~Have you sat all the way through Gone with the Wind?

And read it over ten times. It’s my all time favorite movie and book. If I could ever go back to a time period…that’d be it. I mean, how much fun would hoop skirts and balls with a mandatory ‘nap time’ be?

My sweet sweet sweet sweet, incredibly amazing boyfriend is taking me to see Rascal Flatts tonight!! :) I'm so very excited, I just about can't stand it. I mean, I couldn't even sleep last night. Seriously. I'm pretty pumped about the fact that Darius Rucker is opening up too. I've heard he plays LOTS of Hootie!! whoop whoop

Knell is pretty good!

I'm a little behind posting this, but Mom surprised me Tuesday afternoon. She had bought me a Waxing Poetic charm necklace. It's just like this one...without the 'K'...add a key and a clear bauble. I've been wanting one of these for FOREVER, but because they were so expensive, I haven't gotten one yet. My mom can be absolutely precious when she wants to be! :)

I'm craving...

...a little New York City. I'm talking in the near future. Trip planning mode will probably go into effect sometime this afternoon/tonight! :)

Is there a better way to end a Monday?

Have you kissed someone in 2010 that means a lot to you?

It generally happens that way when you love the one you’re with.

How fast does your mood change?

Really? haha I am guessing my moods change at a normal pace considering the extenuating circumstances.

Do you like to sleep?

I didn’t use to. Now, it seems as though sleep is one of the things I just can’t get enough of.

Do you enjoy late night phone conversations?

Negative. If it’s late night the only thing Anna enjoys are the backs of her eyelids.

Your best friend tells you she's pregnant. What is your reaction?

Hmm…that would either be Merica, Linds, or Haley. If it were Merica, I would freak just a teensy bit, but then I would begin to plan Charisma Sparkles Shediamond Queens’s ballin’ shower. If it were Linds, I would have to ask who in the heck the daddy is. Is it Immaculate Conception?! And if it were Haley, I just wouldn’t believe it. I don’t really think God’s got that in store for her while she’s overseas doing missions. haha I mean, He could fool me, but I don’t think he would on this one.

Do you think someone is thinking about you right now?

It’s quite possible.

Ever sang to the person you liked?

I sing to everyone. Seriously.

Do you have any plans for the day after tomorrow?

Let’s see. The day after tomorrow is Wednesday. I’ve got to work. It’s a court day, which usually proves to be very long and stressful. That night, I’ll probably work on homework and watch Idol with Mom.

Was last night terrible?

Hmm…I mean, last night wasn’t the greatest. I got a killer headache. We’re talking migraine proportions. Jacob had to leave and go back to Auburn. I always hate that. AND I found out I had a 14 page paper to complete and less than 2 hours to finish. I did it though. Gah, it sucked.

Will tomorrow be better than today

?Oh yeah. Tomorrow is one day closer to Friday and the Rascal Flatts concert!!! :)

Would you ever take up photography as a career?

If I were good enough, I would definitely consider it. I love taking pictures. I’m just not in the know on all the editing and lighting and staging aspects of the sport.

Will this coming up weekend be a good one?You know it! Jacob and I are going to see Rascal Flatts in Columbus, GA. Then we’re helping Katherine celebrate her birthday on Saturday night. It should promise to be a great weekend.

Are your nails painted?

Easter egg purple-I actually discovered in church, Sunday, that they’re the same color as the grape Runts.

Do you and your friends normally say you love one another?

I always tell my friends I love them. Sometimes, I believe they are caught a little off guard by it.

When was the last time you checked your weight?

Hmm…I’m not really one of those weight checker people. I believe in better myself, but weight is only a number.

How many boyfriends/girlfriends have you had in 2010?

uno

Can you curse around your parents?

Funny you should ask that. Haha I normally curse around Mom just because it aggravates her. It always gives me a laugh.

I've decided I want a sleeping porch! And I mean, I want one terribly!! How awesome would it be on these cold cold cold afternoons? I could cuddle up in lots and lots of layers and comforters. Maybe get a small heater?

Oh, and there better be plenty of hydrangeas for me to stare at in the Spring/Summer. :)

Blah Blah Blah

*Where were you last night?

I was at Merica’s for a while. We walked the hills in her neighborhood. The rest of my evening was spent at the Point of Grace for praise band practice and then at home.

*Last place you went to eat?

Like out to eat? Hmm…that was Papa Dubi’s.

*What are you listening to?

On My Highway by Jason Aldean

*Plans tonight?

Knell and I are going to see Godspell at the high school. I’m sooooo excited!!

*What are you thinking about right now?

I’m wishing it was tomorrow night, about 9 pm, and I was with Jacob.

*What's your favorite hobbie?

I have to say it’s reading. Whether that mean reading books, or magazines, or blogs :)

*What are you wearing?

I’m pretty excited about my outfit today! I’ve been experimenting with different clothing combinations lately. I’ve got on brown leather boots, brown leggings, gray skirt, oatmeal tank layered under a blue tank and brown cardigan, belted at the empire with a skinny brown leather belt. I topped the outfit off with turquoise jewelry.

*What have you always WANTED to do?

Go to Australia. As of late though…I’ve gotten the hankering to go to Greece.

*Are you always in a hurry?

Sometimes, I believe the word ‘hurry’ was created just for MCAnnaD. I love for things to be done fast. I’m one of those people who annoyingly crave instant gratification on each and everything I want or do.

*How many months until your birthday?

6

*Are you excited for the future?

You better believe it. :) I’m especially excited about the next couple of years.

*Have you ever dated a twin?

I’ve actually date two twins. No, they weren’t brothers.

*Who was the last person to actually pick you up in the air?

Jacob. He tends to do that quite often now when he goes in for a kiss.

*Would you rather take a cruise to the Bahamas or spend 2 weeks in Europe?

I would much rather take the 2 weeks in Europe. Imagine all the things there are to do. I mean, a cruise just seems to limitless to me.

*Do you have any plans for tomorrow?

I’m gonna have dinner with Erica and Jamie after work, and then I’m hanging with Jacob!

*How much money did you spend today?

$44 I bought stamps for Cassie’s bridal shower invitations.

Marc Jacobs Goggles...sort of.

Okay, so this is what I hope to be doing starting NEXT WEEK. Lots and lots of breaststroke and lap swimming up at Therapy Plus. It's time for a new, more in shape MCAnnaD. Linds has even named it March Madness. We all know how much I LOVE a theme. :)

We Should All Encounter a Divine Romance

These are the words of David Crowder's 'Divine Romance...'

The fulness of your grace is here with me
The richness of Your beauty's all I see
The brightness of your glory has arrived
In your Presence God, I'm completely Satisfied

For you I sing I dance
Rejoice in this Divine Romance
Lift my heart and my hands
To show my love, to show my love

A deep deep flood, an ocean flows from you
Of deep deep love, yeah its filling up the room
Your innocent blood, has washed my Guilty life
In your Presence God, I'm completely Satisfied

For you I sing I dance
Rejoice in this Divine Romance
Lift my heart and my hands
To show my love, to show my love

David Crowder's song perfectly describes the kind of love relationship we are destined to have with Christ. Just so you know :)

X-man or X-woman...I guess I should say...

My blog followers know me. They're my two very best friends. So, they already know that when I talk about Haley, I'm talking about my cousin who's a missionary. Wow. That's the first time I've actually said it. Haley's a missionary. This thought warms my heart. It's kind of crazy. Growing up, we both became Christians at a really young age, and we were both in church every time the doors were open. Neither one of us could have imagine that God would have her traveling all over the world telling people about His love for them.

This brings me to Andrew. He was one of Jesus's disciples. Let me just go ahead and throw down a load of scripture at you. It's a passage (my Bible happens to be The Message: Remix) from John 1:35-42...

The next day John (being John the Baptist) was back at his post with two disciples, who were watching. He looked up and saw (in the Hebrew...this word for 'saw' means 'to stare' or 'seeing someone like you're looking thru them') Jesus walking nearby, and said, "Here He is, God's Passover Lamb." The two disciples heard him and went after Jesus. Jesus looked over his shoulder (the NIV version uses the word 'saw' here) and said to them, "Where are you after?" They said, "Rabbi" (which means "Teacher"), "where are you staying?" He replied, "Come along and see for yourself." They came, saw where he was living, and ended up staying with him for the day. It was late afternoon when this happened. Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one of the two who heard John's witness and followed Jesus. The FIRST thing he did after finding where Jeseus lived was FIND HIS OWN BROTHER, SIMON, TELLING HIM. "We've found the Messiah." He immediately LED him to Jesus.

So, from this passage, we see that Andrew's life had four points:

1.) Andrew was found

2.) Andrew followed

3.) Andrew came to faith in Jesus

4.) Andrew became a fisherman (rather a fisher of men)

Don't you see? Andrew was the one who led his brother, Peter, to Christ. Peter! The favorite disciple. Can you imagine? If it weren't for Andrew, Peter may have never loved and served Christ as fully as he did. And guess what? In John 6:8-9, Andrew was the one who led the little boy with five loaves of barely and two fish to Christ. AND In John 12:22, Andrew leads a bunch of Greeks to Christ. I mean, Andrew really had this fisherman thing down. He say that his will in life was to lead people to Christ, and he did just that.

Historians tell us that Andrew eventually traveled to Ethiopia to spread the gospel there and lead people to Christ. Lawful authority didn't like his preaching, asked him to stop, and when Andrew wouldn't, they arrested him. Like his brother, Peter, Andrew was to be crucified. And like his brother, Peter, Andrew didn't want to die in the same way Jesus did. He asked that they crucify him on a cross in the shape of an 'X.'

It makes me cry tears of joy when I realize that Haley, MY Haley Bug, is just like Andrew. She's living her life like a true X-woman; leading people to Christ. Whether she's in South America, Asia, or in Africa (where she'll be next month) like Andrew was, she's allowing God to fulfill his perfect will in her life.

It's been awhile...

I'm very ready for the weekend to get here. I'm going to Auburn with the bests to hang with my Jacob and all his bests. It's promising to be a GREAT time :)

~Have you ever kissed underneath the stars at night?

Hmm…I’m sure I have. I can’t really recall a specific time that happened though. I do remember the first time I kissed Jacob though. It was snowing, 2am, and freezing! It was so great though, that I can’t even really remember any of my other first kisses.

~What are you supposed to be doing right now?

I should be going thru probation profiles to check and see who has failed on their payments. I don’t really feel like it though. I’m too busy trying to visualize my wardrobe for the weekend.

~ Are you happy with the way things are going?

I’m happy with the way things are going for me in general, yes. I have a wonderful family, the best friends a girl could ask for, a good job, and an incredible boyfriend.

~Are you wearing jeans, shorts, sweatpants, or pajama pants?

None of the above. I’ve got on dress pants.

~What were you doing at 2am last night?

…sleeping to dream about you…

~Do you like the snow?

Ya know, I’ve never really been able to experience snow up until this past week. I mean, sure. There was a ‘blizzard’ of 3ft of snow in ’93, but I was only 6. I don’t remember it very well. After these past couple of snowy weeks, I’ve decided that I love snow, so long as it’s still safe to drive around.

~What are some of the lyrics to the song your listening to?

‘…sitting on the porch drinking ice cold Cherry Coke…’

~Are you a blood donor?

Needles don’t bother me, even a little bit. I try to donate blood every chance I get.

~Could you go the rest of your life without smoking a cigarette?

Never have I ever even smoked one.

~What are you looking forward to most in the next 4 months?

Hmm…let’s see. The next 4 months include March, April, May, and June. In March, Jacob and I are going to see Rascal Flatts and Sister Hazel. We also have a wedding in Athens, Georgia in the middle of the month. April brings Cassie’s bachelorette trip and a Mofro concert in Tuscaloosa. Then, to top it all off, Cassie’s getting married May 1st. It should be a FANTASTIC next 4 months.

~If you were pregnant how long would you wait to tell your dad?

I’m not pregnant. But if that were to happen, I’m sure I’d tell the parentals pretty soon. I seem to do that anyways.

~Have you ever dated two people at once?

Guilty. They weren’t serious relationships though, so I don’t think there is anything wrong with it.

~What was the last thing you had to drink?

Coca Cola Classic

~Who is your last received call from?

Jacob

What Not to Wear? I Don't Think So!

Okay, so I have to admit, I'm a bit of a fashion fanatic. I pore over the Style section at People.com and countless magazines just to see the latest trends. I consider myself to have a style all my own. And whether or not I follow the latest fads, I still get a kick out of discovering new fads each and every month. My dream job would be to personally shop and dress people. The clientel just isn't that great for it around here. These are a few trends that I have found...and love:

black and white dresses

Blazers-Actually, I enjoy every piece Lauren Conrad's wearing in this photo. I would secretly love to sport a pair of leather leggings, but who knows how well that will go over in Guntersville.

Braided Crowns

digital print dresses

nude lips

I totally love the fact that peacocks prints are in style. I love this dress!

raspberry dresses

red tights

ruffled whit tops with black skirts

sequined mini dresses

Who would have thought?

What happened at 10:00 am today?

We were getting ready to have court for the inmates.

Where would you like to live in the future?

Hmm…if you had asked me this question a year ago, I would say Guntersville. Now, I know that I probably won’t be in Marshall County, but pretty close by :)

Would you be able to date someone who doesn't make you laugh?

Seriously? What is a significant other if they can’t make you laugh? Laughter prolongs life. It’s a must for a successful relationship.

Last night you felt?

Elated. I’m happier now than I’ve ever been.

Could you handle living together with the last person who texted you?

haha…most definitely. Merica and I actually lived together in Auburn. She’s a great roommate.

Would you rather pierce your lip or tongue?

I would rather die. Haha Seriously, I’d choose lip. A tongue ring is very offensive, not to mention disgusting.

What was the last thing that someone purchased for you?

Jacob got Rascal Flatts tickets for March 5th!! : )

Have you ever hugged someone named Joe?

Yep yep yep

Do you prefer warm or cold weather?

I like cold weather clothes, but I prefer being warm.

Did you mean it when you said "I love you" to the last person?

with everything I am…

Last thing you listened to?

‘Hello Seattle’- Owl City

Last thing you put in your mouth?

Smarties sweetheart

What are your plans for this weekend?

See my previous post!

Do you wear eyeliner?

Normally every day. I look dead without it.
Are you a morning person or a night person?

Morning…ask anyone who knows me.

Were you single for your last birthday?

That’s right.

You can get a puppy or a new car. Which do you choose?

Puppy…a mini schnauzer :)

Name something great that will happen in the next few weeks:

Let’s see…where to start? Haha I will be in Auburn the next two weekends and then March is gonna be a GREAT month. We’re going to see Rascal Flatts, Sister Hazel, and we’ve got a wedding in Athens, GA. I’m excited!!

Do you find it in your heart to forgive?

I believe that forgiveness is the most important action we can practice besides love.

Can you go a day without music?

I just about can’t go a breath without music.

Is it Friday yet?

I'm so anxious for the weekend to get here. I'm going to Auburn to see Jacob :) Everytime we leave each other, it feels like an eternity before the next weekend gets here and we get to see one another again. Ever had that feeling? haha I call it love. Don't get me wrong. I'm happy to be in love and have someone who returns it! I guess what I'm trying to say is that even though the feeling of seperation may suck, in a way, it doesn't. And we can blame that on the fact that love covers all other feelings. At least, that's the way it works for me.

Anyways, back to the weekend. I'm soooo ready for it to be Friday! We're planning a movie night. I'm talking sweats, Space Jam, Zombieland, and cuddling. Saturday, his fam will be down for Haley's showchoir competition at Opelika High School. I'm very excited about a day of singing and dancing! I'm most excited about the weekend because I get to finish it up with sleeping realllly late on Sunday and having lunch at Loco's. The more Merica talks about Loco's, the more I miss it!

Oh, and Auburn's supposed to get a little bit of snow Saturday. Wouldn't it make the best pictures to see Samford lawn covered in snow?

I want it all...and I want it now!

I try my hardest to be a good blogger. I know that I'm nowhere near GREAT as far as my blogging skill goes, but I figure with practice...I have to get better. In the same style as Merica who writes Strawberry Fields, I figured out my most current wants this afternoon in my downtime. They are as follows...

MCAnnaD's currently cellular device has been thru the ringer. I have decided that along with a new phone (preferably a Driod), I will also finally get off my parent's phone plan and start paying for my own. Big girl job means big girl payments and responsibilities.

I know it's a little late in the season, but I've been dying for some over-the-knee boots. Besides, they should be on sale now!

You immediately fell in love with it didn't you? This belt is from Anthropologie.

Check YES! on the watch :)

I have yet to secure myself a bib necklace, but I feel like it's a definite must.

You all know how much Anna loves giraffes, right? This necklace is not only affordable, but it's adorable!!

The zipper one me over on this top. Gotta have it!

I want to go back and see the moss covered trees in Savannah, Georgia so bad I nearly can't stand it. I've recently discussed getting a trip together with a group of friends for Spring Break, but I don't think we're going to be able to time things right. Maybe we can all take a trip this summer. Savannah's such a beautiful place!

Tonight's agenda? I wanna lay on the couch cuddled up to my Jacob. Maybe we could watch a little Space Jam. It is one of my favorites.

My last want for the day was to talk to my Haley bug. Guess what? She just called. They were about to get on a bus leaving Cambodia to travel to Bangkok, Thailand. You know what that means? I get to Skype her tomorrow morning! I'm so ready to see her pretty face! It totally made my day getting to hear her raspy little familiar voice.

Time is on my side...

Let's be honest, the last person you texted is...

Merica...She and I were making plans for tomorrow night’s festivities.

What were you doing at 8:00 this morning?

I was clocking in at work and making sure I can take half the day off on March 5th. Jacob’s got something up his sleeve.

What color hair do you find the most attractive on a guy?

I like a guy with dark hair.

What do you hear right now?

Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone) by Chris Tomlin, the rain, and the sound of Amanda removing staples
Do you sleep with the door open or closed?

Closed. It’s very weird to me to sleep with the door open.

Do you currently have any hickeys?

Negative. I believe that hickeys are the trashiest things one could accessorize with.

Will you ever get a tattoo?

I have actually thought about it several times. If I ever did, I’d get a small simple purple cross on my side.

How many pairs of Converse do you own? What do they look like?

I don’t have a pair YET. I do want some though. Probably just basic black.

Dinosaurs or Unicorns?

Dinosaurs. Hello? Have you ever seen Jurassic Park or Land Before Time? They’re both favorites of mine. And let’s not forget the tv series, Dinosaurs. ‘Not the mama! Not the mama!’ I loved that show!

What is your favorite musical?

Wicked

Have you ever slept in a tent, indoors or out?

Oh yes. I use to camp out in Libby’s back yard every weekend. I also spent 2 weeks at the State Park a couple of summers ago. And when I was little, I used to make ‘tents’ under the dining room table.

Do you watch the Olympics?

I watch Michael Phelps. :)

Are drummers, guitarists, or bassists more attractive to you?

Come on. Any girl would have to admit that a musician just has an appeal. They usually turn out to be the worst companions though. It’s as if they’re doing too much soul searching or something.
Why aren't you in bed?

Gotta make that paper, boo boo.

Do you ever buy the same shirt in different colors?

All the time. I mean, if you find something you like, why not?

Who was the last person to comfort you?

Jacob. He’s good like that.

Are you currently wearing any socks?

If it’s not summertime, then I ALWAYS have on socks.
What do they look like?

They’re grey and purple argyle.

What's the closest thing to your right hand?

the computer mouse

When was the last time you made a wish?

I’m not normally one to wish. I always voice my wants and do what I have to do to achieve them.

Do you think that in the end, everything will fall into place?

Oh most definitely. God’s got a perfect plan for each of us. If we live according to His will, everything will work out.

Do you like mayonnaise?

Funny you should ask. It’s the one thing I absolutely HATE.
When was the last time you went out in the rain?

I had to unfortunately go out in it today to get to work.

Have you ever seen a Tim Burton movie, like Coraline, 9, etc.?

Nightmare Before Christmas…and I absolutely can’t wait to see his adaptation of Alice in Wonderland.
Do you keep 3D glasses after you've left the movie theatre?

always

Do you like cats?

I love cats.

Do you really miss someone right now?

I really really really do. I get to see my Jacob this afternoon though…around 5:30ish. : )

What was the last rule you broke?

Last weekend, in Tuscaloosa, Jacob, Linds, Evan and I definitely did quite a few illegal things. I think we ended the count at 7.
Do you plan on sleeping in tomorrow?

Oh yes. I plan on sleeping as laaaate as possible. Saturday is my only sleep late day.

What's your relationship with the last person you kissed?

We’re in love :)

Have you ever fired a gun?

Oh yeah. I actually enjoy participating in the sport.

What's better, beautiful eyes or a beautiful smile?

I’m pretty big on eyes.

Are you listening to music right now?

Of course. I’m Anna, right?

If you won a lot of money in the lottery, what would you buy first?

I would build the Point of Grace a new church.

Would you rather have 10 kids, or none?

Ten kids would be a BIG undertaking, but I’d rather be stressed and poor than to have no children.

She's back!!

Well, she's back in Bangkok at least! And this means, my Haley has internet service again!! I can't express how incredibly excited I am about talking to her this weekend!! It's been a month since I saw her (via Skype) or got to communicate with her in any form. Here she is with some Cambodian kids...

And the winner is...

Okay. So you watched the Grammy's last night, right? Well, no matter who the winners ended up being...I had my own picks for the evening. This is how I think the winning list should have rolled out:

Best Dressed-Carrie Underwood-I mean, come on. That woman ALWAYS looks flawless.

Favorite Performance-This was an easy win. Hands down, Lady Gaga and Elton John

Favorite Presenter-Gotta have a tie for this one. Everyone knows I LOVE love love love Seal, but I also enjoyed Quentin Tarantino's presentation for 'Forever' by Drake, Lil Wayne, and Eminem.

Record of the Year-'Use Somebody' Kings of Leon

Album of the Year-Fearless by Taylor Swift

Song of the Year-'Use Somebody'

Best New Artist-MGMT (Who doesn't love them?!)

Best Rap/Song Collaboration- 'Dead and Gone' T.I. and Justin Timberlake

Best Rap Album-Relapse-Eminem

Best Female Country Vocal Performance-'Just A Dream'-Carrie Underwood

Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals-'I Run to You'-Lady Antebellum

Best Gospel Song-'City on Our Knees'-TobyMac

I'm on call...to be there.

Do you think you'll ever be in love?Do I think I’ll ever? Pssh…I am so in love right now! :)

Do you miss anyone?I miss my Jacob. Oh, and I miss Haley. She’s in Cambodia right now, and I haven’t been able to talk to her since early January.

What are you listening to?Of Moons, Birds, and Monsters by MGMT

If you could be anywhere, where would you choose to be?Anywhere at all? I’d love to be in NYC right now, but if and only if I could bring Linds, Ev, Merica, Dee, and Jacob with me.

Did you laugh at all today?I try and laugh every day. It prolongs life.

Who was the last person you had a serious conversation with?Merica and I try to have at least one of those a day.

What color are your sheets?cream colored…and oh so soft!

Are you clumsy?Have you met me yet?

What made you start liking the person your currently into?We stayed up the night we met until 6 o’clock the next morning…just talking. I loved the fact that I could have intelligent conversation with him.

What will you be doing tonight?MCAnnaD will be rockin ‘The Other Boelyn Girl.’ I know, I’m really behind on the current reading crazes. School makes that hard to keep up with. Oh, and I might watch a little One Tree Hill and start a photo project.

Will you be up before 7am tommorow?I surely will. The alarm goes off at 6:45am every morning.

Do you believe that there's good in everybody?Most definitely. We were all created in God’s image. God is good.

If there were no letters on the keys on your keyboard could you still type?Oh yes. Mrs. Mitchell taught me how to do that in 9th grade.

In the past week have you cried?I cried Saturday.

Who was the last person you talked to before you went to bed last night?Jacob Scott Russell

If a guy/girl put their jacket on a puddle for you, would you actually walk on it?I wouldn’t let it get that far. There’s absolutely no need for someone to put a jacket over a puddle. Then you’ve got the dilemma of having a soaking wet, not to mention dirty, article of clothing that you have to keep up with for the rest of the day/evening. While very chivalrous, it’s an illogical act.

What distance would you go to see someone you really liked?Anywhere. It happens.

Where was the last place you fell asleep other than your own bed?…on an air mattress in Linds’s living rom.

Do you watch MTV anymore?I can’t even tell you which channel it is on.

So, what do you want for your birthday?I want to have a either a ballin’ THEMED party or a trip with the friends somewhere.

If you had to choose what your mother would wear for the rest of her life, would you?Oh yes, most definitely. I would love to make a career out of dressing people. I feel as though eventually opening a boutique is going to be the closest I’ll get to doing that.

If your best-friend told you that she was going to get a new haircut, that you thought was ugly, would you try to tell her not to?Of course. I’m always honest. No matter what.

Do you think this year will be better than the last?Most definitely. This year has already proved itself better.