It's All In The Details

WHY???

2010-01-24T15:49:00.001-06:00

I am not naive. I know there are alot of people out there- some very close to me- who hear or read that we are considering adoption and think, " they have no business doing that!" or "they have so many struggles they are FINALLY getting through, they shouldn't think about doing that." or "they are irresponsible for even talking about it." and on and on it goes. They are thinking of the time, energy, and of course MONEY it takes to bring a child home and then raise him or her. I'd be lying if I said it doesn't bother me. I'd be dishonest if I said it doesn't make me angry. But not because of what they are saying about me...it's what they are saying about our God that gets me so fired up.
So here's my response:

"they have so many struggles they are FINALLY getting through, they shouldn't think about doing that." - the only way we have gotten through those struggles is being led by God through our faith in him. God never promised us we'd be "comfortable and without struggles." In fact, as a Christian, I am basically guaranteed to face spiritual war... and comfort is relative. I guarantee my life is unimaginably comfortably compared to a crowded orphanage in Africa.

"they are irresponsible for even talking about it." - we're ignoring our Father's commandment if we ignore it. I'm not suggesting that EVERY believer should bring a child home. But I am stating that EVERY believer should help the widows and the orphans.

Obviously, I have gotten pretty emotional about this subject. I think about it all the time. And because I imagine some might be asking how that affects my life with the family I ALREADY have, I will tell you. I have never been so intentional in my interactions with my husband and my children as I have been the last month. I grieve deeply when I wrong them, I pray constantly for them- and nightly with them. I have been given a HUGE gift in my family and the opportunity to show them Christ's light in their day- I want to give everything I can to that end. There are too many kids in the world that will never get to see that light. How can I not take it seriously? It is an easy choice for me. But I also know that God has called me to give that love, to shine that light for another child who would otherwise only know darkness.

I won't even go into the money issue here. read my previous posts if you need proof on how God has worked in that area of our lives.

I follow alot of blogs- and one of them highlighted a family recently that is a huge inspiration to me. They are younger than Joe and I and have 3 kids biologically, and have adopted 6 more, AND just found out they are expecting a child. First, relax. I am not saying I want 10 kids (yet)... but I love their motto, and while I can't say that I envy her laundry situation, I do aspire to her trust in God...and pray that I can raise as many children as God deems mine to love him and serve him and go out into the world with that same understanding.

Here's what she wrote to those who asked the question "WHY???"

I pray that with each day, I can live her answers.

"We are often asked WHY? Why would we adopt THREE kids, more-less SIX kids? Why would we do this? Why devote our lives to this “cause” (if you can truly even call it that).
Here’s why:

-Because we believe that this life is not our own.

-Because we believe that in the end, it won’t matter what career ladders we climbed or financial investments we made or what gadgets we could afford. It will matter that six lives were saved.

-Because we have seen hopelessness firsthand in Ethiopia and elsewhere, but believe in all hope that each child is a child of God.

-Because we believe that the orphaned street child who plays street soccer on the rough pavement of the streets of Addis Ababa is no less valuable to the Creator than the polished child on a suburban soccer team here in America.

-Because we see nothing more worthy of our focus, time, resources, and lives.

-Because injustice is a wrong worth righting.

-Because the poor child is still a child.

-Because we know that, while adoption is not the solution in and of itself to the orphan crisis 143 million times over, we have seen with our own lives how it rescues the lives of those who can be adopted.

-Because we believe that Jesus died for redemption, not just for eternity, but for our lives on this planet and we believe we can be vessels of that redemption for children’s lives here.

-Because we know that, if it were our own flesh and blood, we would want someone to love them and call them family, too.

-Because, really, these kids are no different from your own. Not at all.

-Because it’s just not okay with us to say no to a child who needs a home when we have one.

-Because it’s just not okay with us to say no to a child who needs a family when we have one.

-Because it’s just not okay with us to say no to a child who needs room to thrive when we have room and can make room.

-Because it’s just not okay with us to do nothing.

-Because it won’t be okay with them if we do nothing.

-Because it’s just not going to be okay to do nothing."

Heidi Weimer

what faith can do...

2010-01-03T19:41:00.004-06:00

things I have learned about/because of my faith in 2009

1. God is bigger than ANYTHING I can throw at him. He blesses us directly and through others- who we wouldn't expect. More on this later.
2. God's timing is ALWAYS perfect. I'll admit it- I was FREAKING out when our house hadn't sold and we were getting calls every other day from the mortgage company, and again when the offer was with the mortgage company and they took what seemed like FOREVER and came up with the LAMEST requirements for us. But guess what? I had no reason to worry. It all worked out perfectly. Because of the timing, we found the PERFECT rent house for the PERFECT amount of money. We got back deposits from the utilities at the old house (that we had forgotten we had paid!) that were the perfect amount to take care of the bills generated the few months we were having to pay some bills for both houses.
3. Giving God our first fruits is the ONLY way to give. We decided it was time to finally "put our money where our mouths are" and live our faith out loud. It has been AMAZING! What a feeling it is to say, and experience the words, "God, I trust you with my finances." And what a testimony to God's faithfulness when we are making less than we have in many years, giving more than we EVER have, and in a better financial position than we could have ever imagined! We are so excited at the possibilities this will bring- a family vacation even-something we have never been able to even consider! But so much more important is the opportunity to save and be able to give MORE! We recently committed to supporting monthly a missionary we had the blessing to get to know and who is doing amazing things in spreading the story of Jesus to all corners of the globe. And, as I spoke of in my last post, we are prayerfully considering adoption to expand our family.
4. Joy is far better than happiness. In all the events of the last year, happiness was far to often absent. I cried, and cried, and cried. But I REFUSED to let go of my joy in the Lord. In the worst of moments, I could cry out and thank God that these circumstances are only temporary and I felt so much JOY from that acknowledgement! It was such a relief! Joe would laugh when I would say, "Bring it, Satan!" (mostly because he was worried he would!) but I loved being able to laugh through the tears- something I could only do because I understood what joy really is.
5. God almost never works how I think he will. I will now admit something that I haven't even shared with Joe: When our dryer went out right after moving into the rent house, I was bummed. Major bummed. But after a week or so of hanging laundry out to dry, I was actually more bummed when my dad and Bob surprised us with a new dryer. Don't get me wrong- it was an UNBELIEVABLE gift I was so thankful for, but... I actually liked line drying our clothes. I may actually do it all summer to save money! (for giving, or vacation, or adoption) I didn't expect to LIKE losing the convenience of a dryer and I most certainly didn't expect to receive a brand new one! God gave my 2 gifts in that process- he taught me something I could do without, and provided the dryer as well. (He had to have know that line drying in 20 degree temps just isn't the same.) ;) Another gift came when Joe's dad shared a budget spreadsheet with us he had been using. I expected it to make Joe and I more frustrated at our financial situation, but instead, it has been instrumental in helping us to make the changes in giving I described above. Talk about a stress reliever! While they may not share our convictions or beliefs, their love for us and desire to help us in our finances are a huge blessing from God.
6. Tomorrow doesn't scare me anymore. This goes without saying, really, as a believer in an eternal sense. But here I am speaking more of the day to day things. I was recently told by a close friend, that of all the people she knew, by far, I had the most RANDOM things happen to me. And she is SO right. RANDOM... and often hilarious. I am a drama magnet people. I think it boils down to this: where Satan sees faith growing strongest is where he fights the hardest. If someone doesn't believe in spiritual warfare, they need to read through my last year of Facebook posts...seriously! He does not want God to get the glory, and he likes nothing more than to see us give up and resign ourselves in sorrow and pity. I can tell you that isn't gonna happen to me. I may stumble along the way, but the awesome thing is that God is right there next to me every time- reaching out to help me back up.. and almost always to a step closer to him than I was before.

so what have you learned about or from your faith this last year?

Step One: trust

2009-12-20T16:22:00.002-06:00

Anyone who knows me well enough has probably heard me say at some point in the last year that I don't feel like our family is done. Truth be told, there are some days I question my own sanity when I think about it. But, when it comes down to it, I feel like I am supposed to be someone else's mom. For me to "have" another child would mean reversal surgeries and I didn't have great pregnancies, so we would need to adopt. Specifically, I feel drawn to Ethiopia. I decided a long time ago to quit trying to understand it, or rationalize it, or justify it to people- I just came to the realization that God put it on my heart and if he wanted it to happen, it would. The difficult part in that was that Joe, while not outright objecting or yelling "No Way Jose!", didn't necessarily feel the same calling to have more children- biological or otherwise. I will fess up that at first I tried the begging route with him. And of course, there was some emotional outpouring. (My children do not get their drama from their fathers, I am honest about my shortcoming...sorta... hehe) What I realized though, was that if this was TRULY going to be a process God was leading us into, He wouldn't just be leading ME into it. I simply asked Joe to pray that God would make him open to the idea. Now, I'm not going to sit here and say that I stopped talking about adopting completely- far from it! But, I did make a conscious effort to stop talking about it incessantly, and not ask him to commit to something. I want to give God the glory in the entire process, especially the decision to proceed- I didn't want to ever have the thought that I had guilted him into the responsibility of becoming a parent again!
A little over a month ago, on orphan sunday, a group met at our church to start praying about how our church can serve the orphans of the world. I knew immediately I needed to attend, but I purposefully didn't ask Joe. I didn't want to force anything. Just a few days before the meeting, I began committing to getting up and having a quiet time in the mornings- To read scripture or a devotion and to pray over my life and family. What great timing that at the orphan meeting, the host handed out a "40 days of prayer for orphans!" I missed a few weekends, but I always made it a priority to pray DAILY for the cause of the orphan- for the parents that feel the need to give them up, to the caregivers that take care of them, to the churches praying for them, to the families that bring them home- to the orphans themselves. It was life changing. Each day, I prayed specifically that God would use our family in the way according to his plan. I prayed that if it was his will, Joe's heart would be open to adoption, and if not that I would be obedient and find peace in that. (that was the hardest to pray- if I am honest)
Even though the 40 days is over, I am still doing my quiet time, and I am using the prayers in it to continue my prayers for the orphans in the world and how we can be used to help them- even just one of them.
This weekend, I came across some old cd's with pictures of the kids when they were teeny. I spent a few hours just smiling as I flipped through. Such sweet times. And even though we have lots of memorable times these days, there is just nothing quite like the joys of seeing a toddler experience life's wonders.
After awhile, I came back in the living room and snuggled into Joe's arms. We were looking at the Christmas tree, and on a whim I said, "For Christmas I want a bigger family..."
Imagine my suprise when he said, "ok!' Imagine my pure shock when after I asked, "really?" he responded, "sure."
There was some joking that followed and I will admit that the grin on my face might as well have been sewn on, because I couldn't wipe it away. When I finally got the courage to ask for clarification (I wanted to make sure he REALLY meant what I thought he meant), I realized he meant he was open to adoption. We both agreed it won't be happening immediately, but if it is God's will for us, we are BOTH ready to open our hearts to another child- forever. Please pray for use in this journey- there is much to consider and do to prepare.

Business Cards and Golf Shirts

2009-07-16T13:23:00.003-05:00

I work in the corporate world. This means I am around lots of networking luncheons, summits, meetings and all around schmoozapaloozas. If you know me, you know that I actually enjoy all of these. I enjoy meeting all kinds of interesting people and learning a little about their lives. I am the stereotypical “people person.” One thing you see at any and every business function, without exception, is the exchanging of business cards. Everyone wants everyone else to know who they are and what they do. Yes, it is handy for getting contact info off of, but let’s be honest - it is mostly about telling people who you are.

I was so excited when I got mine in. Being new to this world, when it is time to go to a function, I usually end up either: a) forgetting them entirely, or b) bringing far too few. I think my children were the first people I gave them out to, because I couldn’t think of anyone else who would want or need one. I justified this by telling myself that I am JUST the administrative assistant, but truth be told, I aspire to a higher position, so I should be better.

Another item I received shortly after being hired was a nifty cool golf shirt with the company logo and name embroidered on the sleeve and chest. I see a lot of other people at various events wearing similar shirts, so I know it’s another one of those “corporate world” must haves. As I mentioned, our shirts are golf shirts - really nice ones. But, I don’t golf. And, to be honest, it’s a men’s golf shirt, so even though I got a small, it nearly touches my knees when I tuck it in. I’m not complaining, mind you. I actually like having the golf shirt better than my business cards. Here’s why. When I wear my shirt, everyone who sees me knows I have some relationship with my company, or I wouldn’t be wearing it. The assumption is that my identity is somehow linked with the company I am advertising. I am essentially bragging about being with the company I work for. I know there are exceptions to this thought process going through your head right now, (like the t-shirt you wear that your Aunt brought back from Graceland) but just go with it. I have a purpose.

So, in getting to that... I am reading a new book that I love, and even though it doesn’t even broach this type of thing, it got me thinking about one thing, which led to another, which led to this: Is my faith- my relationship with God through Christ – a business card or a golf shirt?

Now I know you think I am crazy!

What I mean is, do I treat my Christianity and its impact on my life like a business card that is given out as a kind of, “Hi! I am Carrie, and I am a Christian!” Or, is it more like the logo on my golf shirt, so obviously a part of who I am that everyone who sees me makes that connection instantly? If I am honest with myself, the answer isn’t the one it should be. How often do I, for the sake of making myself look more pious, infuse a conversation with a Biblical reference? What about the casual name dropping of my church name or that of the private Christian school my children attended? The list of instances could go on and on. What I realize, looking at these situations constructively, is that I was “giving out” my faith, like I would a business card, so that I would look good. But was I making God look good? Were my actions matching up to my projected self?

How much different would Carrie look if I wore my faith as openly as the logo on my golf shirt? Again, I don’t think I like the answer, but the truth of it convicts me to work hard to get to that point. I consider myself blessed because I know several amazing people who exemplify this transparency that I can turn to for support and more importantly, accountability. It will take time, and prayer, and time in the Word. The Holy Spirit has sowed the seed of desire in my heart, now it’s up to me to tend it and give it the environment and food that will grow it into a living vine, with fruit that I don’t have to point out to people because they will see it all over me.

My First Recipe Post!!!

2009-06-14T21:25:00.012-05:00

In case you didn't know, I LOVE to cook. There aren't many other things that make me as happy. Not many at all. As one of my favorite bloggers/cooks/ranching lady would say, "I'm just keepin' it real!"

So for my first foodie post, I thought I would go simple, yet scrum-dil-y-umptios! It is also a REALLY economical meal for a family- and we all know how important that is in days like we are livin'.

Italian Beef Sandwiches

here's what you'll need:

1 3-5lb rump or chuck tenderloin roast ( I have used both cuts with equally fantabulous results)
3 cups water
1 7 oz italian dressing seasoning packet
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 tsp dried parsley
1 bay leaf
package of sliced provolone cheese
1 pack of split hoagie rolls
few TBSP butter

optional:
1 large onion

Got it? great! Let's go!

I wasn't thinking ahead about posting this recipe, so I kinda missed pictures of the first part, but I know you are all very intelligent people, and well, this isn't rocket science, so I am sure you can hang...

Get out your trusty 'ole crock pot. Sigh at how wonderful it is. Heave the roast into the crock.

Now, in a medium saucepan. (please don't use non-stick. I won't go into how bad nonstick is for you, and I too, once used them for all my cooking, but I can't stand to think of all the icky non-stick contamination so just don't use it. Thank you.)

Into the contaminate- free saucepan add all the seasoning and spices to the water and stir, then heat to a boil. Once boiling, pour over the meat, put on the lid, plug in the crockpot and set the cooker on low ( one would think this step was obvious, but I once ruined an entire blissful dinner opportunity because someone turned it on low, but forgot to plug it in. I won't name names because he would get mad at me, again)then, go enjoy the next 10-12 hours.

Oh, did I not mention this was an ALL day recipe? Hey, guess what?! This is an all day recipe! Cool, huh? :)
Not a big deal, it takes MAYBE 5 minutes to prep, and everything else is done 10 hours later. Anyone can do this before work, I promise- I have!

If you don't have 10-12 hours, or you don't remember to make this until after lunch, just crank it on high and cook for 4-5 hours. I can't help you if it is 6 pm...

Once the time is up, it is time to prep the onions and buns. You don't have to have onions, but you really have to have onions. Just trust me. Sauteed onions make everything better. Especially Italian Beef sandwiches.

so, heat up about 2 tbs butter in a cast iron skillet if you have one. If you aren't cool, and just have a regular one it'll work, I guess... ;)

Yay! time for the first pic! Here is how your onions should look when you put them in the skillet:

I am currently drooling.

Now, I try to use no higher than medium heat, so I don't burn them, but just cook them at a nice slow even pace. It probably took 10 minutes to get them to look the way I wanted.

Some people will stop when they just get translucent. They are missing all the sweet goodness that happens as they brown and the sugars inside come alive. I really think I might just eat a plateful of them when my onions in the garden are ready. yes, I am that weird. But you are the one reading about me...:)

Okay, once they are done, put the onions in a small bowl and keep warm. It is time to get back to the meat. Remove the roast from the pot and juices, and put it on a good sized platter.

Now, take 2 forks and just start pulling it apart. Joe likes some chunky pieces, and I like it more finely shredded, so I do a little of both. a 3 lb roast will give you enough for a hungry family- and even have leftover. Guess what I am taking for lunch tomorrow...?

Once it is all shredded, put it back with the juices. I should note that in this picture, it is obvious that this is NOT my crockpot.
I kinda forgot to start making this until around 2:30 on Saturday, so I took all of it out of the crock after 4 hours, cranked the oven to 400 and let it cook in there for about an hour. Worked like a charm.

Anywho, now I just heat maybe a half tbsp of butter in the same skillet I used for the onions and toast my hoagie. Joe likes his untoasted. You can be weird like him if you are worried about the fat in butter. I happen to know it is good for me, and I also like the crispiness of the roll. Whatever you think works is great.

So now you just slap some provolone, pile on the juicy beef, and top with some onions and more cheese, and you get this: (sorry about the dark pic.. taken on iphone after the sun had set)

this is happiness.

I hope you liked my first recipe! I will try to get more up here in the near future... Maybe I'll even use that Uber-expensive professional camera I have to take some decent photos. We'll see!
Let me know what you think if you make it!

Work

2009-06-09T15:14:00.004-05:00

I missed church 2 weeks ago. We had a late evening the night before, and as is typical in my house, the laundry wasn’t caught up. That was our big excuse anyway. Many weekends we have a good excuse for missing- sick child, sick parent, and less frequently, a random baby shower to prep for. I will even admit here, for all of cyberspace to read that there truly have been times we didn’t go to church because someone had no clean underwear. I won’t mention who that someone is because he might get mad and not make me any more crackers or pasta. But on this particular Sunday, we were honestly just being lazy, slothful if you were. I always hate the twinge of guilt and regret that God sends me through the sweet words of a 6 yr old, “Mommy, I wish we went to church today.” Can you hear the sound of my soul ripping?

At a friendly cookout THIS past Saturday, a friend from church mentioned the sermon from the previous week, and how it was one of the most convicting she had heard in a long time. I love our pastor, and on more than plenty of occasions I have too been convicted by his presentation of scripture. To be honest, though, I figured it was just because it applied in her mind to something she was going through. Then she said it was about work, and it changed the way she went about the whole week thereafter.

My ears perked up a little.

Work is not one of my favorite words. It brings a connotation of not being able to rest, and I LOVE rest. Not proud of it necessarily, but I am honest enough to admit it as truth. My friend briefly went on to describe the general theme he spoke on, and right then and there, I decided I needed to hear it for myself. Our church has a page of past sermons on its website, in case you or your child is ill, are out of clean skivvies or as in our case, you just feel particularly slothful one Sunday morning.

I jumped online this morning on the drive to work. (one of the redeeming qualities of my iphone) and listened to the sermon.

Wow.

No, really. WOW.

I would highly recommend anyone reading this blog who didn’t hear it already take the 40 minutes or so and listen. I think you will find it as thought provoking and convicting as my friend and I did. It is truly that good. I may tie my 11 yr old down to a chair and make him listen. Better yet, I will remove all of his current song selections from his ipod and load it on there. Because I am just mean enough to do something like that. Bwaahahaha.

Sorry.

To give you a taste, I will share my favorite quote from the sermon:
I am not a transcriptionist, so I hereby give myself artistic freedom to NOT type every single word…but I will try my hardest to keep the integrity and meaning intact.

From Gordon Dahl (sp?)
“Most middle class Americans tend to worship their work, to work at their play, and to play at their worship. As a result, their meanings and values are distorted, their relationships disintegrate faster than they can keep them in repair, and their lifestyles resemble a cast of characters in search of a plot.”
That was powerful to me. And, I think it explains so many things that have always seemed unexplainable. Don’t get me wrong, I REALLY, REALLY like my job, but I don’t worship it by any means. My problem isn’t so much what is spoken of above, but the opposite. As I mentioned, I LOVE rest…

So, what does the Bible say about that?
And about how we should look at work?

Listen for yourself… my opening paragraph to this post will seem relevant after listening...hopefully.

sermon
(click on the sermon titled “Is Work a Curse?”)

paradoxically speaking

2009-05-22T12:56:00.004-05:00

I wish that I could actually sing. I imagine lifting my voice high in praise and making a joyful noise unto the Lord. My husband knows that God must have tone- deafness because the sounds that I thrust into the air are not praise worthy, nor are they joyful to hear. This is a sad truth for me to embrace, because I LOVE music. I love listening to the lyrics and applying the words to my life. With a few after-a-long-day-at-work exceptions, my car radio is tuned to a contemporary Christian station. I figure with all the other things in the world pulling me away from my faith, at least I can have something that will bring me back to center when I am out and about. Plus, I want my kids hearing positive music- at least when they are with me! I like this station because there is some more tame praise and worship songs, but there is also some pretty hard core rock. I need to be able to throw my hands up in the air and jump around now and then...okay, quite often, really.

And then there are the songs that convict me and at the same time give me peace about the struggles I am going through. I hear words in the lyrics that I have said or thought, and I know that I am not alone in them. I think certain bands are blessed with this better than others,Jars of Clay seems amazing at it. Here is the newest song of theirs I heard coming to work a few mornings ago...
you can listen to a bit of it, and even buy it at the website of the radio station I listen to.
It's called Air1. it is at 90.9 FM in OKC, or you can listen on the web at www.air1.com

I've been living out of sanity
I've been splitting hairs and blurring lines
I am a house that is divided
In my heart and in my mind

(Chorus)
I use one hand to pull closer
The other to push you away
If I had two hands doing the same thing
Lifted high, lifted high

I have a broken disposition
I'm a liar who thirsts for the truth
And while I ache for faith to hold me
I need to feel the scars and see the proof

(Chorus)

And if we just keep digging
We can reach the foundation Of our souls
And if we just keep cutting all the chains from our hearts
We'll lose control

Jars of Clay - Two Hands
From the album Long Fall Back To Earth

(Chorus)

And it feels like giving in
It feels like starting over
It feels like waking up, and you know it's coming
It feels like a brand new day Open your eyes

Have a safe and happy Memorial Day!! Go do something to honor a veteran, or service member and family. They pay the ultimate cost for the freedoms we all take for granted- it is time we all let them know how much we appreciate it!

So Sorry....

2009-05-05T13:43:00.002-05:00

So sorry Mr. Squirrel for running you over this morning, killing you and causing your tail to go flying through the air in all those little furry puffs.

I didn't see you.

My eyes were burning.

Probably from the Vinegar rinse I did on my hair this morning. My hairthat was wet, a full hour after getting out of the shower- because of the ongoing rain storm.

Another song comes to mind for you today, Mr. Squirrel...

"Blame it on the rain (rain)
Blame it on the stars (stars)
Whatever you do don't put the blame on you
Blame it on the rain yeah yeah
You can blame it on the rain
Get
Ooh, ooh (ooh)
I can't, I can't. I can't, can't stand the rain
I can't, I can't. I can't, can't stand the rain..."
(name that 90's group!!!)

Postscript: Anyone else around here find it somewhat telling that I am having all these problems with rain after posting about how I trusted in God to get me through the flood????

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

2009-05-04T15:53:00.002-05:00

Rain, Rain, Go Away.
Come again another day (maybe a week or so from now?)
So in the garden, I can play! (and perhaps actually grow some vegetables to feed my family...if they don't dampen off and require me to spend yet another weekend bent over the dirt making row upon row...)

and in case you're wondering, NO! I am not in a bad mood. Just a little case of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) from not seeing the sun in weeks...

judging from the forecast I just saw, it could get MUCH worse before it gets better. Consider yourselves forewarned! ;)

Washed by the Water

2009-05-01T09:34:00.003-05:00

"Even when the rain falls
Even when the flood starts rising
Even when the storm comes
I am washed by the water.
Even if the Earth crumbles under my feet
Even if the ones I love
Turn around and crucify me
I won’t ever ever let you down
I won’t fall
I won’t fall
I won’t fall as long as you’re around me"

These song lyrics by Christian group Needtobreathe struck me the first time I heard them. It came out at a time when every worldly thing in my life was in limbo. The house I loved was on the market- too expensive for us to stay in. The phone rang off the hook, day in and day out with calls from people wanting to be paid -seemingly unconcerned with the fact that paying them would mean not feeding my children. The flood wasn't rising, it was overcoming me. But I didn't fall. Not even once.

The storms I went through last fall were a real ground zero in the battleground of my faith. It was the first time since my mom died that I have gone through such a monumental event. And like the earlier struggle, my faith became stronger and more solid, and I saw more than ever that God IS around me. He alone can hold me up. It's an amazing experience to actually throw yourself into his arms- without fear.

All of this is running through my mind today, the song, the past year, because my oldest son, now 11 is being baptized this Sunday. I was only one year older than he is now when I did the same. I still have the picture of me and the others on the beach in Jacksonville. It was a windy day, and the current was strong. I remember being really nervous that the seawater would go up my nose and I would gag or blow snot out my nose in front of all the spectators. Those were the biggest worries I had at 12.

Logan, on the other hand, worries about why God gave us free will. Or, why Satan works harder to pull him away since he is a firstborn. And, why does Adam's original sin still affect us today? And others so complex I can't remember them.

On one hand, I hear his questions and want to run screaming to my pastor and beg him to enroll Logan in seminary so I don't have to think that hard. But on the other hand, I am in awe of my child. I am amazed at the concepts he grasps at such a young age in relation to theology- and about life in general. I look at him today, and realize that I am only now as an adult, asking many of the same questions he is at 12! I am jealous that he will have a deeper relationship with his creator than I did in his transition to adulthood. And I am thankful that God is blessing him with this curiosity about his Saviour.

So, I will celebrate his decision to proclaim his faith with him on Sunday, knowing that even though he makes me pull my hair out most days with his ceaseless questions and incessant attempts to rationalize EVERYTHING he does, there is no question about his heart's desire.

I will rejoice that when the floods come into his life, as they always do, that he will undoubtedly understand and know that he won't ever fall- God is around him.

Spring cleaning

2009-04-28T20:31:00.003-05:00

Around these parts, cleaning is somewhat of a fad. A fleeting "mood" that I stumble into at random times, or as is more often the case, I frantically try to accomplish before company comes over. I will try to tell you that I subscribe to the creed, " I live in a home-not a museum!" but, if I were to be honest, I should say it boils down to laziness, exhaustion and plain just-not-caring most of the time. The paradox is- I hate clutter! Abhor it! It makes me feel itchy and twitchy and my skin all creepy crawly. I feel my heart beat faster and I get nervous. This reaction seems odd, I know.
My friends out there with children will no doubt say, " wait a few 18 yrs and it will be clean again." But the kids' messes aren't the issue. It's my messes that truly irritate me. And I have finally figured out why!
I can't stand the idea that people would be able to see a physical, spacial, worldly representation of what the inside of my brain looks like.
It is a disaster. I am a walking, talking, drama-inducing hazmat situation.
SOOO.. this year, in addition to trying to declutter and organize my home (quit snickering, Joe), I am also going to listen to Madge and "Free my mind..!" Mostly, I am going to finally do alot of the things on my To Do list that I have procrastinated on. They eat at me. All day. Today, as I made no fewer than 700 copies of old credit card receipts, my mind was scrolling through all of the things I need to do. For me. For friends. For family. Photography. Bills. Sewing.... oh, the sewing...(ok. I won't lie. I can't WAIT to do the sewing!) Various assortments of tasks that I have pushed aside till later. It is later. They are getting done. I am tired of being tired from fretting about NOT having done them yet.
An obvious side effect of allowing my brain more breathing room, and clearing away its cobwebs will be the ability to compose many more blog entries. Entries that will hopefully be more than just an insight into my insanity I call life, but rather- might actually inspire you! I know- laugh. I just did. But, who knows? Stranger things have happened. I taught 3rd grade remember? THAT is pretty strange- yet, it happened! Leslie Nielson pretended to pass gas on me in the OKC airport. That is BEYOND strange, and yes, I am sad to say, it also happened.
So, enjoy the benefits. Check back often. Bring a glass of wine if you like. You may read about the exciting life of an Administrative Professional, or see pictures of my kids that will make you chuckle. You may even get to follow a journey to Africa for adoption.(praying VERY hard on that one!) You'll get more of me! :)

How to Feel Old... and Love it!

2009-03-22T19:13:00.002-05:00

Some of you may not have heard that I have re-entered the work force. To keep it brief, I will simply tell you that I love the company, I love the people, I love the work. God is very good. My relationship with my husband is better, my relationships with my children are better... only my relationship with my dog could use improvement. If he would quit jumping my fence and creating large vet bills I could re-connect with him as well. I am not holding my breath. All is well, and the blessings are plentiful.

With this new endeavor has come the need (HUGE need) for an updated warddrobe. Strangely enough, my faithful yoga pants and hoodies are NOT suitable for office wear. I would be lying if I said this was something that caused me tremendous grief. Truth be told, I have suppressed my love for shopping over the past few years only with the help of God, through lots and lots of prayer. I have missed hunting for bargains in departments other than the children's wear. At stores other than Target. (disclaimer: I STILL love me some Target... I will forever be a fan.) It is nice, however, to expand my palate to include other stores- like the plethora awaiting at the local mall. This brings me to the point of my post.
Going to the mall to shop will make you feel old. REALLY old. Ancient. Dowdy. Might- as-well-be-dead. You can ALMOST avoid this feeling if you stay in one of the major department stores. Venture out into the fluorescent lit franchises, though, and you will feel it immediately.
On this particular day I needed a cute blouse for a night out with some friends, and maybe something to put with one of my new (fabulous) suits.
A friend recommended a store called "Forever 21." anyone who has lived to my age would probably agree when I say that I would never want to be forever 21. I would never go back. Whatever. As I had predicted, many of the items in the store were not appropriate for someone of my "advanced maturity" - not necessarily immodest, just a little too trendy for a grown woman. I did find several options that I thought would be appropriate, and raced back to the fitting rooms. As I tried on my assortment I couldn't help but overhear 2 of the sales girls chatting. They were obviously VERY upset at how another associate was acting and could not believe that she would talk to them the way she did, and went on and on and on, ad nauseum about how "stupid" she was. I truly had to stifle my laugh. It was all of the reasons I would never go back to that age, all being played out in a tiny little store- in front of a bunch of customers. All the pettiness, and cattiness, and silliness that came with youth was on display. Even as I stood there feeling frustrated that birthing 3 children had made clothes fit so awfully, I was SO completely thankful to be where I am today- to have matured through all of that. I was glad I was old! It is true, you do understand your parents as you age. I remember my mom telling me that I would feel this way, and rolling my eyes. I thought she was old and crazy. She probably was, but you know what? I am too now, and she is still right! I decided however that I would simply revel in my oldness, and spare the young girls the lecture. They would have just rolled their eyes at the crazy old lady anyway.

Photo Tag

2009-02-02T16:30:00.003-06:00

Aww man... Why did I open her blog today? haha. Just kidding, I love you. And your blog. So, this assignment proved a bit trickier for me, since many of the picture folders I have are of past clients. I have model releases for most, but lately, since I am not advertising, I have slacked off in this.

The actual 6th folder belonged to a client who is an attorney. No way. No how. Not opening that can of worms!
The next folder was the thumbnails from my old website gallery, and then there was one of my AIM buddy icons, so I actually had to go to the 8th folder... but, whatever.

This is my precious nephew. He was almost 1 at this session- as it was November of 2007. His mommy is one of my younger sisters. I love almost everything about her.
Almost Everything.
One thing about her makes me want to scream. It will explain the bells he is holding.

See, my sister is the dreaded type of relative that always buys your kid the most obnoxiously loud or large toy she can. And thinks it is the BEST gift EVER!!!! She gets more excited about it than the kids do. Seriously, folks. It is sad.
On the list of toys she has purchased for my children:
1. A motorized Harley Davidson Powerwheels... it was ridden maybe 3 times by my 2 yr old son. Then it sat in my single car garage for a year. I couldn't put my car inside the garage for a year because of this toy.
2. A 3 ft wide and 6 foot deep basketball game (like the ones you see at an arcade. the ones you shoot the ball at the hoop and they roll back down to you.) Our house at the time was 900 sqft. It wouldn't fit in my son's room, so guess where it went?
Yup. And I had just sold the Powerwheel in a yard sale. My car was forced outside again. Lucky for us, the thing broke after a few weeks, but the headboard haunted us until we moved.
3. Are you ready? A KARAOKE machine. Yeah. Please refer to #2 and note the size of my home. Enough said.

This year, I had a temporary lapse in judgment and actually suggested she get all the boy nephews slingshots (with real marble shots) and crossbows. So far God is protecting them- nothing has been broken and noone hurt. I may have hidden them, but I would deny it if brought up in front of the children. ;)

So this brings us to the bells. God love her, we were at Hobby Lobby looking for things to make Christmas crafts, and almost made it out without anything obnoxious. Almost. Just as we started putting items on the register she spotted a "precious" (her words) set of bells that were all different colors and labeled with the notes. She immediately threw them on the counter. I immediately threw up a little in my mouth.

The rest of our holiday weekend ( God was gracious in keeping it short) was filled with the joyous sounds of children playing together, people cooking the Thanksgiving meal, guys watching football, and my sister- trying to play the variety of songs that were included in the booklet that accompanied the "precious" bells, and then the other kids taking her cue and running through the house as though the redcoats were invading.

As we started taking pictures for their family Christmas card, Anna ran to get the red and green bells. Aww...the perfect props.

It was "precious."
:)

If you read it, and you have a blog.... YOU ARE TAGGED!

1. GO TO PICTURES
2. GO TO 6TH FOLDER
3. GO TO 6TH PICTURE
4. BLOG ABOUT IT!

Breathe In, Breathe Out...

2009-01-28T11:48:00.002-06:00

God is teaching me about patience. I am thankful for his protection and mercy on my children while going about my instruction. It has not been an easy task for me to endure. Yes, I said endure. I am in a unique situation to many of my friends, in that my oldest child has an outside influence- another parent outside of our home. I was married previously and had him during that marriage. I won't speak ill of my ex, but will say that there are a great many differences of opinion on a great many important things- including those of related to worldview and faith. I could NEVER have imagined all of the implications all those years ago. I am thankful that God has wrapped his hands around Joe and I, too, because I KNOW Joe never imagined all that it would entail to marry me and a 3 yr old. I love that man.

One thing we have struggled with is adjusting to the fact that our son is very bright and while this is a wonderful gift, it presents a lot of challenges. Intellectually, he "gets" more than he can understand "emotionally." Add to this the fact that there are a different set of expectations at his other home, and I tell you there are some days when all I can do is let go and let God, because I have no idea what to do next- or I am afraid I will doom the kid to an adulthood of therapy. I am weird enough to do that on enough things. ;)

I have learned, and I cling to the fact that God has a special love for my son. I know he can be a Great Man of God...but I am still trying to learn how to lead him to that end. I want more than just the behavior to improve, I want his heart to yearn for God.

Today, I am having one of those days where I am taking it one breath at a time... saying very little, and letting God work.
and drinking lots of coffee.
:)

Settling In

2009-01-13T10:27:00.004-06:00

On the 3rd day of our endeavor, things are becoming more natural with Saul here. I speak only for myself here. Meaning, I am once again accustomed to rising at a decent hour, cooking breakfast, and getting dressed before rousing the other sleepyheads from their blissful sleep. This is much easier since I have reverted to the wonderful world of coffee. Sorry, folks. I tried- made it a whole week. (Sounds like the whole anti-cell phone endeavor doesn't it?) I am a much happier(read: nicer) and productive person when I have a single cup of java in my system. I would have felt better if Saul drank coffee, but in all honesty, I didn't need much more of a reason than a 6:45 alarm clock wake up to justify my downward spiral. :)

For the most part, I think Saul is adjusting great! He and the boys have a shared love for football, nerf guns and night vision goggles, as well as Wii games. There is some strange turning on and off of the shower in the morning ( it goes on, then of, then on again??) But, I worry about embarrassing him, so I may have hubby try to talk to him. That is my general rule of thumb. If I feel weird asking him something, I try to make Joe do it. His reply tends to be, " This is your thing." Then I bat my eyelashes and beg. Sometimes it works.

We did discover that the student staying down the street with our friendly neighbors speaks fluent English, so I used him yesterday to communicate to Saul that I don't mind him telling Logan to leave him alone. :) I love my son, but he can talk. Alot. Must get it from his dad. ;) Saul laughed. I think he understood what I was implying.

Ooh! I also discovered that both boys know how to Salsa dance. This could prove to be a very fun discovery if I can convince them to teach me...I feel a salsa party in the works! ( don't worry... I can pretty much guarantee Joe will nix that idea. He is allergic to dancing.)

That's all for now. Unless anyone happens to know how to make pate... His mom says he likes that. pate? as in...liver??? not sure if I can go that far.

Carrie

Oh my goodness, Oh my goodness!

2009-01-10T16:34:00.001-06:00

In a little more than 30 minutes, a plane will be touching down and Will Rogers International Airport. On board that plane is a group of young people who boarded in roughly 90 degree weather only to de-plane in the upper 30's.

In a little more than an hour I will be responsible for another living being. To feed him, to make sure he bathes, to ferry him.
( it doesn't matter what country you are from, mom's ferry the kids. I think it is truly wired into the female genome. Mary ferried Jesus- and lost him! Please Lord, don't let me lose this child. I don't think his mom would be very thrilled.)

In keeping with the female genome line of thinking, and all the side effects we suffer thus, I am of course getting rather anxious.
Oh, you know what I am talking about...
"Will he like us? Will he feel comfortable in the bed? Does the mattress still smell a little stale even though I emptied a bottle of febreeze onto it? Will he complain of a headache from the febreeze? Can you die from inhaling too much febreeze?" OY!

And then I proceed to, "Will Clara shut the bathroom door when she potties? Will she be quiet so as not to wake him up in the morning? Will he like the cereal we have? Will he like it better if I cook breakfast? Will he like the way I make eggs? Will he like our raw milk? Will he want more than milk or juice or water to drink? Will he like the water here? WIll he get diarrhea from the water here? Will he drink coffee, even though he is only 13? ( Oh, how I PRAY he does! I need an excuse to start drinking it again!)
And the insanity goes on. And on. And on.
Ad infinitum.
Ad nauseum.
But, I can't write anymore, because I still have to go put hangers in his closet and clean out a few of the dresser drawers for his clothes. Oh... Do you think he will want me to wash his clothes? Even his underwear???

AACK! at least I thought to buy the booklet entitled, " Daily Spanish for Dummies" in the dollar section at Target. At least now I should be able to understand him, right?

;) Carrie

Change Is A-Comin'!

2009-01-08T07:48:00.001-06:00

It is in the air around here! This feeling that things are different, new. No, I did not change my hair color again (yet). Strangely enough, in our house, it has nothing to do with the fact that a NEW year has just begun. I think ours is more exciting!
We found out about a week ago that we get to stay in our sweet little home in Logan County, America. We were ready to move, to walk away thankfully, but God made it possible for us to stay. Praise Him!
In other news, Joe and I realized right after Christmas that we don't like being fluffy,,, it's highly over-rated. His sister contacted us the day after our realization, noting she felt much the same, so we all joined this great healthy -living site called and committed to making healthier choices. For us, as an added incentive, we are training to go back to where it all began for the Chlebanowskis in America, and run the Chicago Marathon in October. It could be scary, folks.
the lifestyle change is going great so far- noone has pulled any major muscles or fainted from calorie restriction, yet.
The last news I will share with you for now is about our family. Ever since my princess was born, I knew I was done having children. But, I also felt like our family was meant to have one more member. Moose has helped (he's like a perpetual toddler with his antics) but it isn't the same.
In a few short days, our family will be growing! A new child will call this house home!! YAY!
Another sweet laugh will fill the air, and another pair of feet will drag Oklahoma clay through the livingroom.
But, I won't have to potty train this one. He already sleeps through the night. Weaning is also a non-issue.
This sounds like the perfect child, no?
I think so! Too bad we are only "borrowing" him for 6 weeks.
Okay, fine, here is the truth- We are hosting a student from Panama for 6 weeks that is coming to Oklahoma to learn English through an immersion program. (Still wondering who thought Oklahoma was a great place for that, but will gladly reap the benefits!) I hope to be sharing the experience with you through my blog. Should prove to be pretty entertaining! I can only imagine the antics that will ensue when my children have a new "in-home" friend. I also hope I can provide his Madre y Padre a slight sense of relief that their baby ( 13 is still a baby ya'll!) is safe and sound here in the Good 'Ole USA...

Other things are in the works, but not ready to share, so keep checking back!
Blessed,
Carrie

Discoveries at the end of another year

2008-12-29T15:47:00.002-06:00

1. I am fat.
2. I am fat because I love food.
3. I love food too much. My butt is a good voucher for this.
4. I think I subconsciously think the food is going to love me back.
5. The food doesn't love me back. It only loves the space it inhabits on my aforementioned butt.
6. I actually notice myself craving exercise lately. Think maybe my butt is trying to tell me something?
7. I am much more productive at doing laundry and other household chores while listening to music on my ipod.
8. Alvin and The Chipmucks has a great soundtrack.
9. I may actually get in shape with this workout routine- my house may stay clean too!
10. I am more than likely certifiable.

Here is to the close to another year, and to the blessings that are sure to come in 2009! God Bless You!
Love,
Carrie

Holiday Eats... the good, the bad, and the UGLY

2008-12-22T12:27:00.001-06:00

I am really a mess this year. I LOVE cookies, fudge, and pretty much any other dessert that is commonly found in November and December. I grew up watching my dad make all of it. And eating it. And eating it. And eating it... ad nauseum. But something has happened to my body this last year. I can't eat all the foods, in the quantities of years past, without paying the price in my derriere.
As in NONE of my pants or skirts from last year will slide over my newly curvaceous figure.
By curvaceous, please be advised I DO NOT mean 50's-pinup-silhouette, nor should images of Botticelli, Da Vinci, or any other Renaissance paintings be evoked in your mind.
No, the curves of which I speak are more like the underside of the smoked ham after sitting in its plastic net-bag that are all on sale at Target right now. Not a thing of beauty to be admired for generations on end.

So, you ask, what do I do to combat this evil?

Reason says I should be making changes to accommodate my body's new lack of get-up-and-burn. And I have! I take a plethora of supplements that do make a big difference in the way I feel, and I am taking steps (itsy bitsy, teeeeeny, tiny baby steps though they may be) to switch my whole family to a raw, whole food diet, free from processed sugars and technologically derived or created "stuff."
I have experienced how the less of the bad stuff we eat, the less we miss it. Our bodies REALLY do work better when we feed them better foods. And better foods aren't necessarily what the popular and so-called "experts" tell you. They can be the total opposite, actually. Technology does not make all things better. Modern medicine does not know and cure all. Traditional, whole foods the way they were made BEFORE mass-production started are really all they are purported to be! I have realized I am not 20 and will actually have to DO something to tone up this jiggly mess.
Realization is the first step in the 12-step process, and, alas, I have not yet gotten to the step where I actually DO something...
I think that is step 12? "Hello my name is Carrie..."
All of this awareness makes me feel like I am headed in the right direction.

I have subscribed to the wisdom of "KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!"

But, you want to know how I deal best with this dreaded discontent with my behind?

I make cookies and fudge and pretty much any other dessert that is commonly found in November and December.

In A Fog

2008-12-18T16:03:00.001-06:00

Foggy day here today in Oklahoma. Weird Foggy. Not the normal "gone-by-midmorning" fog. I mean, it's almost evening folks and the fog never rose. This causes problems for those of us ninnies who haven't finished Christmas shopping. Snow I will drive in. Rain- big deal! Ice.. well, okay, won't go out on that either. But seriously, fog? Fog scares me. There are too many hills out here in the boonies. Too many deer. And WAY too many crazy drivers on the country roads who don't use lights, much less their brakes. Nah, I'll stay inside today and snuggle up to photoshop. Maybe actually finish editing the pictures I needed done 2 weeks ago. And, I'll make Ree's cookies 'cause they are chocolate and it feels like a chocolate day. I might actually match all the socks in our 50 gallon sock tub, too. I detest that sock tub.
Who am I kidding? I think I may go back and reclaim my spot between the two precious angels asleep on my bed. That sounds like a much better way to deal with the fog.

Poverty and Perspective

2008-11-21T10:53:00.001-06:00

Perspective is a humbling thing. One moment I am feeling low and troubled because of finances, and the next I am crying at my selfishness because of a picture of a child in Haiti that is literally starving to death. I am able to start a business to help make more money, but some people can't get food for their children because there are no roads for the trucks to get to their village. I don't question why God would allow this to happen- I accepted long ago that He is WAY better at determining what is good, and right and necessary. It does place a burning on my heart, though. I reiterates my desire to serve Him by serving those in need. To go hold those babies and give them some milk. To take pictures that show others how God can use them to help. To hold their mothers' hands and tell them Jesus loves them and can save them. To encourage them with what I have learned in my seemingly miniscule situation- that even in the midst of this, God is good.

Eating Healthy

2008-11-14T12:55:00.001-06:00

The men in suits at the big food companies have done their jobs well! My 10 yr. old has fallen for their claims that Fruit Loops are healthy because they are made with whole grains, and Sunny Delight has lots of good vitamins, so I should buy it instead of juicy Juice. Oy Vey!

We are in the process of changing our eating habits in our household. In a HUGE way. Gradually, we are eliminating processed foods, and trying to buy only whole, raw, organic products. Anyone on a budget can understand how frustrating this can be. And I would be lying if there weren't days I wanted to stand in the middle of Super Walmart and scream, "YOU ARE MAKING PEOPLE FAT!!!!!!!" Because truth be told, the "cheap" foods that are accessible to people on limited incomes are killing them. They are laden with chemicals, processed beyond recognition and the preserved for longer shelf life. I am a transparent person. My family qualifies for assistance, and right now, we are using it. How crazy I must look to the cashier getting my free cheese and eggs and milk, and then filing the rest of my cart with expensive organic foods. Why is this country so unhealthy? Why can't I get free range eggs that are better for me kids for free? Why does it cost $10 a lb to buy chicken and beef that hasn't been bred to be "plumper" or fed soy??? 100 years ago our food sources weren't genetically altered or bred for production, chemicals weren't sprayed all over vegetables to make sure more got to the production plants, and guess what.. less cancer, less obesity, ADD was UNHEARD of as was autism, food allergies and a long list of other problems. OH! and they ATE ANIMAL FAT!!!! and hardly any of them had heart disease. Thank goodness in our modern age of science and technology, things ARE SO MUCH BETTER!!! Oy vey!
I think I need to go have a big glass of milk that came from a cow roaming around somewhere in a field in Asher, OK and take a nap! :)

Thoughts On NOT Moving...

2008-11-09T12:45:00.001-06:00

I am excited we aren't moving. I was excited that we were moving. Sounds like I am a confused individual, doesn't it? I'm not- not in the slightest! (disclaimer: I am not confused about this particular subject. Many things confuse and confound me, but we will delve into those at a later date.)
I think I can rationalize how I can say both of the aforementioned sentiments and mean them is by telling you I have learned to be content in my life. I am content to stay here. I am content to move. I am content to be in a position to be content!
Put simply, I am at a place where I won't let myself become too attached to any "thing"- in this case, our house. I LOVE this house (except the flooding back yard, but given time and $$ that can be remedied) and all that goes with it. More than that, I love the people who fill my days that are close to this house. Many have crossed the line from friends to family in our 2 years here. BUT, take the house away, and I will STILL have those people. I won't have my cute garden, or the portrait wall, or my perennial garden, ,but those friends have become a permanent part of my life. I could move to Timbuktu and still have them in my life. So all is good in my eyes.
For now I am relishing the ability to have a messy house if I want to ( last minute showings about sent me over the edge!) and I think I may begin personalizing my "house" again this week. Anyone like to come help paint?

stepping out...

2008-11-06T13:04:00.001-06:00

I have believed for a long time that any skills I have in photography are gifts from my Lord. It is that knowledge that prompted me to do my work with organizations like NILMDTS and the ACPCG, and fired me up to do the sessions with a local pediatric hospice. I cannot describe the blessings I have received and the grace and strength I have witnessed in the families I have met through those experiences. It really puts life and its struggles in perspective. But, I want to do more. I NEED to do more. Ever since I can remember, I get a feel a strong tug at my heart when I read or hear about missions. Over seas, but particularly Africa. I used to reason it off to the fact that I grew up in the 80's- the age of Live Aid. But when I shared my "weird" obsession recently with a visiting missionary at our church's missions conference, she explained it perfectly by saying, "Praise God for that!" Isn't it funny that I, a practicing Christian so willing to give God credit for everything else in my life, never once considered that He had placed this desire on my heart! Since that "Ah ha!" moment, I have been praying and looking actively for a way to use my photography in the mission field. At first I told my husband wanted to move the family to Africa for a year so I could teach at a school for missionary children. Those of you who know my husband will be shocked to hear that he didn't laugh. I was shocked he didn't laugh, actually. I was shocked he didn't do more than laugh! He doesn't share the desire to do missions. But here is the amazing part- he told me that if I felt I was called to do something, even if he wasn't interested in it, he couldn't say no. He couldn't deny me from going where the Spirit leads me. After alot of discussion, we both agreed a year in Africa, though an amazing experience, was not the right "fit" at this stage in our lives. So now I am actively looking for short term missions that need a photographer with a Journalism degree to-boot in spreading the word about spreading the Word. It's the Great Commission, 21st Century style!

Murphy's Law

2008-10-13T10:43:00.002-05:00

The day on which home schooling mother awakens prepared and eager to start the week on a great note, has showered, made coffee and prepared the lessons for the day is also the day her oldest child will awaken ill and hence spend the entire morning sleeping in bed.

quote for the day (courtesy of "The Pioneer Woman

"Homeschooling....There is no substitute."

"ahem,testing..testing.. is this thing on?"

2008-09-30T09:14:00.001-05:00

7 months- time since my last post (shameful)
2 months- time since I left my teaching position
1 month- time since I started homeschooling ( seriously, that's it??)
11 miles- distance into town from where I currently live
1,308 miles- distance to where I WANT to live from where I currently live (courtesy of google maps)
3- number of different haircolors I have had in the past 2 months
3- number of children I am currently neglecting to type this post
2 lb- amount of raw chicken my dog eats each day
2 gals- quantity of raw milk I purchased for my children this week
too much to count- the laundry awaiting me...

enjoy your day for me!

February, Seriously???!!!

2008-02-06T17:07:00.000-06:00

How is it FEBRUARY????
Ugh...
Well, It is and things here are crazy as always. I am beginning to wonder if I could even function or if I would know what to do if there wasn't SOME kind of drama in my life...I think God is yelling "SLOW DOWN!!" but, see, I have this little problem called "over-committal" and it makes the letters "N-O" virtually impossible to say. My lips are seemingly incapable of forming that word, to the extent I am beginning to wonder if this condition is not merely psychological, but physiological- I will do some research and get back to you on that. If life goes true to form, I wouldn't expect the conclusion to that research to be available anytime in the next 4 mths.
I am also going through a huge internal struggle right now. I LOVE teaching. LOVE LOVE LOVE it... crazy passionately LOVE it. I LOVE photography. LOVE it...confused teenager LOVE it. See my problem? Aaah.. I dunno, I suppose I need to just pray about it some more, bore my husband to tears with my rambling internal-turned-external debates, and see if it isn't just a case of "I always feel this way about photography in January and February."
Because, truth be told, there is something magical about spring and the newness of things that changes my perspective...

so for now, I will reminisce of happier times, days when the eggnog was still on your breath, the tinsel still hanging on the tree, and I had 3 more days of not getting up at 5:30 am...:)

::Sigh:: Kids Will be Kids....

2007-12-05T19:25:00.000-06:00

Even if they are grandparents themselves!!!
This is one of my favorite family captures in a long time... It captures perfectly the relationship shared...and makes me smile from ear to ear each time I look at it!

One of my Most Favorite Lil' Ladies

2007-11-22T21:46:00.000-06:00

This little one is about to turn 2- not so out of the ordinary, except she wasn't supposed to survive 6 mths. Her mom and I have become friends, and her big brothers made my heart smile by saying I was just like their "auntie" now. :) She's been having a rough time of late, so I thought I would share a favorite pic from and impromptu session we did a month ago. It's nowhere near technically perfect- far from it, but it shows her smiling at her hand as she waves it in the sunshine. The docs say they don't think she has much vision or hearing, but put her in the sunshine and she will prove them all wrong. Give her something that crackles and she will hold it up to her ear and just smile away...

what do doctors really know anyway?...
and another of her giving her momma kisses...

keep praying L, miracles happen every day.

Breaking Another Rule...

2007-11-22T21:42:00.000-06:00

Last time we got together, she and I played in the middle of the street...

This time, we played with FIRE!!!!
(relax- her mom was right there... helping me light it up!!!)
:)
seniors are too much fun.

I promise I am almost done with your session, K!!!
Carrie

Petite Virtuoso

2007-11-08T21:09:00.000-06:00

I can barely play chopsticks on a piano, I have never even dreamt of owning one,until now...

this picture makes me want to buy a baby grand and put in my office so I can hang this above it! (no pressure, S-!) ;)
My husband will balk at this idea worse than he did at having a 3rd child I am sure.. hehe

see you soon Miss. E... can't believe you are almost 1...

YES, I Know, It Has Been over a Month....

2007-10-29T17:36:00.000-05:00

But, in my defense...I have officially self-diagnosed myself with "first-year-teacheritis" , and boy oh boy, has it been an adventure! :)
I am persevering through it, and with the help of lots of hand sanitizer and vitamins, I am confident I will survive this malady!
It did my spirit well to spend the day with this Senior beauty last weekend- can't wait to finish editing her session!

Remember how your mom told you not to play in the street?

well, to quote my oldest child, "I forgot!!" hehe

see ya soon K!

Future Maybelline Model

2007-09-23T11:36:00.000-05:00

This little doll has it made with her already enviable lashes and dark curly locks...
and her mom is one strong lady who in the last few months has fought a battle far worse than lack of sleep... and she is winning! ;)

I told them I want to come back in 12mths to celebrate Miss. D's first birthday and mom's 1 year anniversary of being cancer free!
Have a blessed day!
Carrie

M.I.A.

2007-09-22T13:51:00.000-05:00

Whew!
Isn't it amazing how quickly your life can change! Life around the Chlebanowski ranch doesn't bear much resemblance to what it did a mere 31 days ago- but ya know what? ... That's just fine, because God is in charge and He is good!
I am horribly behind in editing, due mainly to a few recent observations/realizations:
1. my immune system is not as iron-clad strong as I have been naively been asserting for all these years. Turns out being raised with parents working in a hospital did prepare my body to fight off many illnesses, but did not have any beneficial protection from the germs of 75 school age children sharing my air for the last month.
2. apparently, hand- foot- mouth disease CAN be contracted by adults ( see above observation) and a doctor's description of "not nearly as severe as a child's symptom" and my own are two completely different realities.
3. editing pictures with photoshop (which requires typing) is not fun( read:doesn't get done) with a blistering rash on your fingers.
4. teaching 3rd grade is not fun with an intestinal virus. the kids like it because you aren't in the classroom as much, but it isn't really all that conducive to their learning.
5. you don't feel much like editing when your two youngest babes have temps of 103 and want mommy to snuggle...:(

so if I am behind getting you proofs, or prints or calling or emailing- PLEASE know that I am not avoiding you or the work, I am just plowing through a household-wide battle of the immune systems and doing uncharacteristicly poorly. (I am sure God is trying to teach me something about boasting through all of this...wishing there was a more pleasant trial!) If I have to stay up all weekend- I will caught up!

I have managed to edit a few sessions, and will be locked up in the hole.. I mean office... as much as the children's tylenol will allow!
here is one of my favorites from the newest little sweet pea in Lawton ( who hopefully will be a fellow Edmondite soon!) :)
Looks like the sibling rivalry isn't too big of a problem...

until next time,
Carrie

Vroom Vroom...

2007-08-15T10:15:00.001-05:00

And you thought you were worried about your high schooler driving...

all kidding aside, this young man is ready to take the formula racing world by storm- right after he finishes his calculus homework. ;)

See you soon T.

Safe In Daddy's arms

2007-08-06T13:57:00.000-05:00

So I headed out to the lake last night for some sunset pictures with a great family. I knew the shot I/mom wanted, and so the mom and I are yelling "Throw her in the air!! NO-REALLY throw her!! C'mon!! She won't fall in the lake- We promise!!":)
But no way. This daddy wasn't letting go of his baby girl for NUTHIN'!
And what do you know, this shot is much cuter than it would of been with her legs flying in the breeze...
See you soon BR! ;)

ME!

2007-07-30T21:12:00.000-05:00

so here is one of the pics from the fabulous April Jackson...can you tell the kids were ready for us to be done? ;)

Summer Fun

2007-07-30T17:26:00.000-05:00

A fellow photog friend and I took our own kids downtown today to play around and try some new things. I am THRILLED with some of the pics I got, so I thought I would share!

A Proper Lady Knows How to Wear a Hat...

2007-07-28T11:04:00.000-05:00

And coordinate it perfectly with her beautiful blue eyes! ;) I can't believe how this little one has grown! I saw her last as a teensy tiny 1 mth old~ and my has she grown!

Have a blessed day!

Eye Of The Beholder

2007-07-24T18:04:00.000-05:00

this little man was so full of energy and fun- and boy does he have a BIG puppy to play on!
Here is one of my favorites... you can tell he is totally entranced by something or someone...

a little zoom in photoshop reveals who! ;)

somebody loves his daddy!!!
See you soon Mister N.!!

BOO!

2007-07-24T09:44:00.000-05:00

Teehee... I love this little man... and yes, I am partial. He is flesh and blood...my lil' nephew TyTy...
such a sweetie pie and tons of personality... and those PEEPERS!!!!! I could take pictures of him all day! (hint hint mommy.. move me back to Oklahoma!)

SENIORS!!!!

2007-07-23T12:44:00.000-05:00

It's official!
CLC Portraits is going back to school!! (I always was a big book nerd anyway!)
Call now to get details on how to get a Senior portrait session that is YOU!

Little Man...

2007-06-17T22:57:00.000-05:00

Can this kid dress or what?! ( guess it helps that his mom is super cool!)
He was much fonder of the camera at this session than when I first met him 6 mths ago- in fact I could hardly snap fast enough to catch all of them! I hear he is taking a big trip to the west coast soon- watch out handsome guy... I hear those California girls are a handful! :)

See you soon J!
Carrie

Folded

2007-06-12T20:43:00.000-05:00

It always makes me smile to see a brand new baby fall asleep and curl right back into the position they have been in for the last 9 mths. They have to be "freshies" as some of my other photographer friend call them, though, because once they realize how liberating it is to stretch out- they will never fold again...this little lady was born just 7 days before our session.

can you remember the last time you were able to touch your nose...
.
.
.
with your toes???

sweet dreams, little Miss "Lion". I can't wait to see you grow!
Blessings,
Carrie

A Tribute... to a beautiful princess...

2007-06-05T16:03:00.000-05:00

I was just told by my volunteer coordinator that one of my little hospice patients passed away last week. Her family stands out to me as so strong and so determined to help other families battling the rare disease that their daughter fought.

This is one of my favorite images I have ever taken, and I wanted to share it in Bella's memory...
God bless you Stringer family. You are in my thoughts and prayers!

Wallowing

2007-06-04T14:53:00.000-05:00

Lots of animals wallow to escape the heat of the sun. My animal expert 4 year old could probably ramble off at least a dozen. I will spare you that list, but here is my shorter version:
1. Elephants
2. Pigs
3. My sons and nephews

As I am sure those of you who know me know already- this was all my idea. Anything for a picture for my kitchen wall collage!
But really, what boy on this earth wouldn't jump for joy at being TOLD to have a mudfight??

a dog and her boy...

2007-05-30T11:10:00.000-05:00

you know... sometimes there are no words needed... :)

::Sigh!::

2007-03-28T14:39:00.000-05:00

Those of you who know her well know how unbelieveable this shot is. She is the epitome of everything that is a photographer's child. Joe doesn't know it, but this one will be BIG in my house soon...
she said she was Cinderella ...
sometimes, for jsut a second, she is a mama's girl! :)

Up close and WAY TOO Personal!

2007-03-25T22:27:00.000-05:00

My car windows will never be the same. It was Spring Break here last week, and me and the hubby and some great friends took the kiddos down to the Arbuckles for a drive thru safari and hiking about. I can now say that I have had contact with all kinds of wild animals- and more of their oral mucus than I ever felt the need to. But man, how cool is it to feed a giraffe and pet a zebra (shhh.. don't tell! we weren't supposed to do that- apparently they bite...) Our resident 4 yr old animal expert and zookeeper-to-be refused to get anywhere near his future charges, so I am thinking there might be a career change ahead :)
As for me, I am just glad I didn't fall out of the car as I climbed out the windows to capture my safari images... I think Joe tried to get me to fall out a few times when he took a turn a little fast...gonna have to watch him!
here's some of the "wild beasts" we encountered...

I am still here!!

2007-03-05T21:31:00.000-06:00

I should be scolded harshly... It has been a month and a day since my last post. I could make excuses, but the fact is, I have nothing to blame it on other than old fashioned mommy brain... I wish I had some really humorous or exciting reason. I did finally upgrade my computer which should dramatically decrease the time I spend editing, and therefore speed up the delivery of your prints! Woohoo for a bigger screen,too! Check back soon for exciting news about changes in the ordering sessions. (hint, hint: it involves a trip just north of Edmond!:) )
so, in order to redeem myself for not being timely in posts, and because I was gently chided by a good friend today about it (thanks K.!) here are some of my most recent babes...in no particular order of favorites, but I will point out that the little man with ginormous eyes inherited them from my mom~her lasting legacy to her grandchildren.

See you soon!- no, really, I PROMISE!!!
Carrie

shhhh!

2007-02-04T16:23:00.000-06:00

Aww man.. why can't they stay like this forever?...

see you soon Mister J.!

Carrie

Man... I can't make the little ones happy!

2007-02-01T10:39:00.000-06:00

HeHe... I have a knack for putting them to sleep.. most of the time. This little man never did totally fall asleep, but you can se he wasn't all that impressed with my presence. That's ok... next time I see him he will be 6 mths old and at that age they find everything hysterical- especially obnoxious photographer ladies! :)

Have a blessed day!
Carrie

I'm watching you, lady....

2007-01-29T22:26:00.000-06:00

Yes, I know it has been done a gazillion times, but so what.. I love this shot...especially when babies show a little personality. This was the last shot of our session, so what do you wanna bet that she was thinking, "Hey crazy photographer lady... I have my eye on you... no more of these crazy daredevil poses..."
See you soon Miss M.!
Carrie

I Miss You!!!

2007-01-13T19:30:00.000-06:00

We have been back a week, and with sick little one and now an ice storm to boot, getting back into the swing of things has been a little rough! If you haven't heard from me, don't give up!! I am limited to working when Clara is sleeping~kind of hit or miss right now! I should have everything back on track by the end of this week, when I get to leave town AGAIN! This time to welcome my new little nephew into the big bright world!!! YAY!
For now, here is a pic of my sweet nieces, and a couple of other squirmy friends we met at the National Aquarium...Hi Ryan!!!

A Tribute...

2006-12-05T11:29:00.000-06:00

Wow... I am speechless. I have just been told that one of my new friends from hospice has passed away about 30 minutes ago. She fought so strongly, but her body was tired.

Fly home Amy, and soar with heavenly wings like you were never able to do here on Earth...

The Three Musketeers...

2006-12-04T22:12:00.000-06:00

you know, I had a whole long post all typed out when I realized that a single quote said it all:
"families are a lot like fudge; mostly sweet, with a few nuts."

Love you guys!
signed,
the cuter, oldest sister.. ;)
heehee

Don't Forget The Little Guy!

2006-12-01T08:52:00.000-06:00

My cousin, her husband and her 5, yes folks, I said FIVE, kids came down a few weeks ago to do a session. The big kids tried to steal the show, but this pic of little man is one of my favs...I only wish you could have seen the mayhem BEHIND the camera trying to get his focus away from the cool grass... it was a regular circus I tell ya...
Stay warm Mister G. !

Miss Sassafrass!!

2006-11-29T13:44:00.000-06:00

Hehe.. she was SO much fun to shoot... all energy and all girl! Watch out Tyra, this girl has style!
..and how does she do that with her tongue???
:)

See you soon, G!

Cheating

2006-11-25T13:09:00.000-06:00

Sometimes, you have to make the shot happen. Sometimes, that means cheating...just a little though. Like in this shot. Do you really think I had my camera in the right place just at the moment that butterfly landed on her fingers? I wish I was that talented....

This butterfly had already gone to butterfly heaven when we found it and created our own sweet shots...look for this picture BIG at the new display I am working on in a fabulous new educational and imaginative toy store called Kidoodles!
Thanks B.!

Who Needs Mascara???

2006-11-16T08:55:00.000-06:00

Wowsers... this girl had some amazing lashes! This is another one of my special friends who I have gotten to meet in working with hospice, and her family was just plain awesome. I wanted to share this one, because I think every woman out there wishes she had lashes like these! :)
oh, and little man J....
thanks for being a super helper!!! ;)

God bless!

EEEEWWWWW!!!!!

2006-11-12T20:17:00.000-06:00

hehe... can't you just feel their pain? Mom and Dad kissing like a bunch of kids...how gross!!! LOL, I loved this shot, and thought it was a great example of a really cool family I had the privelege to meet. Mom is a yoga instructor and hopefully she will help me tame the flab and get in touch with my fit-self that used to reside where my flabby self now sits and munches tater chips....;)

I want a picture like this with my kids some day....

A Story...

2006-10-31T22:32:00.000-06:00

I want to tell you about a day that occurred recently, that changed my life. I have been prayerfully considering whether to tell the story, and how to approach it, and realized I just needed to tell it how it came out. So here goes.
There are two events that occur in the world many times every day, and at some point, every person in this world will experience them both. They are, I believe the most sacred events there are, yet common. Birth and Death. On Wednesday October 26, 2006 at 6:56 a.m., I witnessed both- and I have been forever affected. I was honored enough to be present for the birth of an amazingly beautiful little girl, who because of a medical condition that her parents found out about during the pregnancy, never took a breath in this world. The first vision her eyes saw were those of her creator. Her mom and dad seemed comforted in the knowledge that she never felt the pain and cruel coldness of this world, but went from growing in the warmness of the womb to walking in the brilliant lights of heaven. I spent 3 hours with her; helped bathe her and managed to stay in control enough to take pictures for them to have as remembrances. As I kissed her forehead and left the room though, I couldn't shake the feeling that I had been part of something bigger. I felt it as soon as it happened, and as trivial and childish as it sounds, the closest thing I can use to illustrate the feeling is the scene in "How the Grinch Stole Christmas", when the grinch's heart turns to good.
I don't know yet exactly how God wants me to use this feeling. I have an idea, and each day in prayer He reveals more, but it is something the selfish sinner in me is afraid of. So for now I will be still and know He is God, and listen to what He wants me to know. He will work out the details that make me nervous, and if what I think He has for me is indeed his will for me, than who am I to tell God it can't happen?

He's Not Impressed...

2006-10-28T22:55:00.001-05:00

Hehe...sometimes, no matter how hard I try, I have to realize, I can't make them all happy. This lil guy was obviously bored with his photo session. But then, at 5 days old, what does he know anyway?! ;)
See you soon, Mister C.

Beauty in the Truest Sense...

2006-10-22T21:56:00.000-05:00

I know, I know.. I have been MIA for the last month. Moving with a flu-ridden family is not so much fun- I don't recommend trying it for kicks! We are finally all settled, and my office is still unpacked, but I have been feverishly editing sessions to get caught up for the fall!
I wanted to share a few images this time. They are of one of my hospice patients who is an amazingly strong woman. Yes, I said woman- not girl. This session was a special arrangement I did with my friends from Good Shepherd hospice to bring a little sunshine into a life filled with cloudy days. Little does she know how beautifully bright her light is and how much it filled my heart with joy.
A., you are a vision of what beauty and strength can do with a little faith...
Keep shinin'!
Carrie

Gotta have Faith!

2006-09-17T11:19:00.000-05:00

This little one is my first Hospice patient and I have fallen in love with her and her family. She is a feisty little fighter and kept us all hoppin' during the session, but that one big smile she gave me will be in my mind forever. I think sometimes we forget that God even uses the smallest people to change the world, and today she taught me a little something about myself! Thanks, little one.

Now, go out and make a difference in your world! :)
Have a blessed day!

The Quiet One

2006-09-06T22:16:00.000-05:00

Life with two little brothers is never boring...or quiet. This beautiful girl was such a sweetie, and was so patient while her brothers had fun making silly faces for the crazy photographer. One day, those ornery little brothers will be her protectors, but for now, well...they are just ornery. Good thing Mom has a great Mac 'n Cheese recipe ;)...that makes everything better!

Take it easy K~ :)

Blessings to all!
Carrie

Air

2006-09-01T12:45:00.000-05:00

I don't know who was more nervous at this session, me or his mom. I think we were both just praying he didn't break his neck, and I was also thanking God my boys don't have an interest in this sport (I know, they are young- there is still time...Taylor is only in 6th grade and flying like this! *groan*)
Despite the nerves, I had a great time with Taylor- although I am sure he thought I was pretty stupid asking him to do the "jump thingy" and "do that pool thing again"... I had no clue how to speak the lingo, but it didn't seem to matter much- he did his thing, I did mine, and the results are pretty cool...

Hang loose Taylor..(hehe, now I am just really dating myself :P )

Have a Blessed Day!
Carrie

P.S. Dates are booking quickly for fall! Don't miss your chance to get great pictures in the beautiful colors in time for Christmas cards!!!

"I Like Big...Bows!"

2006-08-29T12:01:00.000-05:00

hehe.. sorry, it was the first thing that came to mind. This is a favorite from a session I am finishing up editing. Life has been so crazy,we finally sold our house so no more frantic cleaning and open houses! I haven't had alot of time to work now that I am also a full-time taxi driver for my boys, and it is getting back to looking at pictures like these that helps me relax and enjoy my life as a photographer...
See you soon Miss A.!!:)

the eyes have it...

2006-08-24T14:24:00.000-05:00

This is a collage I put together for my aunt of her grandbabies. It is really special to see because Alex, her grandson she raises, has Asbergers syndrome and has a hard time with eye contact. This session was done at the end of June, but I have strong memeories of how much fun it was (and the chigger bites I got during it that are just now starting to go away!!)
I love the way this came together, and I think the quote just fit perfectly...
In case you see this, hi Big Al!!

Have a blessed day!
Carrie

Back to the Books!

2006-08-21T14:25:00.000-05:00

Logan went back to school today- my big bad 3rd grader! Of course, as a photographer's child, he couldn't just stand there and let me take a pic, but had to pose- that's my boy!!!

and one with little brother, who starts pre-k on Wednesday(WAAAAH!)

Have a blessed day!
Carrie

Why I am A Photographer

2006-08-16T23:08:00.000-05:00

Today I had one of those affirmation moments. The kind that brings tears to your eyes, and makes you smile and your heart skip a beat because you know you are doing what God put you on this Earth to do. I met with two beautiful women at Good Shephard Hospice about working with their pediatric program by providing pictures to the families of terminally ill children. Those of you who know me know that this has been on my heart for awhile, so to see it come to fruition is so awesome to me I can't find words to accurately describe how I feel. I just really feel like I am supposed to do this, and God has opened a door... How cool is that?!

On a similar note, I am in the middle of proofing a very special session. Okay, all of my sessions are special, but this one was EXTRA special. This handsome little man just finished up his treatments for Leukemia, and if the sparkle in his eyes says anything, it says that he is on the right track! We trecked all over one of my favorite places, the Myriad Gardens, and he and his brother had a blast splashing (and swimming) in the fountains. His mom teared up as she shared some pictures of him from during his chemotherapy, so I thought I would let her see how far he has come...
this is for you Danielle...;)

blessings!
Carrie

It Never Fails...

2006-08-10T14:04:00.000-05:00

Schedule a toddler shoot, and they will not smile, don't want to look at you...nada.
BUT, schedule a newborn shoot for their new baby sister.... it's a whole 'nother story!
Have a great day big sis Laura! ;)

Sometimes it Just Takes a Little Incentive

2006-07-24T22:08:00.000-05:00

What a crazy week! It looks like we may be buying a new house soon, and so in addition to photographer I am now a touch-up painter, and frenzied housecleaner trying to get our house ready to put on the market! I am right in the middle of editing this shoot from last weekend, and thought I would show you how a little incentive can change the whole mood of a shoot.
This is the face I got from the little man for most of the shoot...not very thrilled to be there...

...and THIS is his smile after I told him he could splash his dad and fiance in the fountain...

he was full of smiles from that point on!
Have a great week, and check back soon!

Dog days of Summer...

2006-07-20T14:13:00.000-05:00

Since we seem to be in the middle of the dog days of summer, I thought I would post a few pics of our newest four-legged friend. We got him the first week of June, and I think the Miracle-Grow I used in my yard back then must have somehow gotten into his system... Meet Davey
then at about 8 or 9 weeks, and weighing just over 10 lbs:

and now, at almost 4 mths, weighing around 30lbs!

Davey is supposed to be around 80 lbs, but I am betting he gets bigger! He is the ever popular labradoodle, and we love him to pieces. I cannot say enough about how smart, and sweet he is. He was a dream to housebreak (seriously, no accidents since the 3rd day he was here!) and even though he drives our shihtzu and my husband crazy trying to play in the house, I think he is fabulous, and so do the kids! The best part is, he doesn't shed!

Christmas in July? Well...sorda...

2006-07-19T13:01:00.000-05:00

I know, I know. I am with you people. I walk into Hobby Lobby and see the Christmas aisles being filled and I cringe- is it really THAT necessary to get it all out now??? As much as I hate the overcommercialization (big word of the day) of such a sacred holiday, in the photography world, now is the time to start thinking about Christmas. In order to preserve my sanity, and provide the best service and highest quality pictures and cards, I am officially announcing Saturday November 18 as the last day for orders that need to be received by Christmas. (Orders may be placed after this date, but with the understanding that they may not be fulfilled until after the first of the year)
I hear the groans- believe me I do. But from past experiences I can tell you that my lab will be getting something in the range of THOUSANDS of orders a day during the month between Thanksgiving and Christmas, and it just isn't worth you stressing about getting your cards out on time, and me stressing about you stressing about getting your cards out on time... So, I will nip the problem in the bud and make sure that you have your cards in PLENTY of time to get to your family and friends before Christmas! (Now- you do still have to mail them, of course!) :)

Seriously folks, I know how far away November sounds, but think of it this way... there are only 12 Saturdays between now and then that I have FULL availability on. Also consider that as daylight savings winds down, it gets darker earlier, making weeknight sessions more difficult.. and school is getting ready to start too! What I am trying to say is call me now and get a date on the books, so you don't have to stress about it!!

To help you out, I am taking part in an Open house on Sunday July 30, from 2-6. I will have beautiful examples of cards and specials ONLY AVAILABLE at this event! There are other business taking part, and food and drinks too! It will be a great time to check out some local businesses and maybe get some Christmas shopping done at the same time! Call me for details!
Have a great day and stay cool!
Carrie

my turn in the hot seat

2006-07-12T17:22:00.000-05:00

So the tables were turned today as I attempted some self-portraits. Man, I got a workout running back and forth between the camera and the chair. I could post all the silly one that ended up in the trash bin of my computer, but instead, I will grace you with probably the only one that will end up printed...maybe...:)

Welcome!

2006-07-11T15:40:00.000-05:00

Welcome to my new blog for CLC Portraits! I thought it would be nice to have a place whereI could post favorites from my sessions, share some funny "behind the scenes" stories, and let you know about any new and exciting happenings in a less formal setting than the website. Let me know if there is something you'd like to ask, or if there is something in particular you would like to see here!
Carrie

Mr. SMiles...

2006-07-11T15:23:00.000-05:00

Meet the least camera shy child I have had the joy of working with in a long time. He was all about making sure I got a good one. His older brother was more of a challenge, but Shhhh! don't tell him I got some great ones of him too!