Holamon House

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-07T14:16:00.000-06:00

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

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1940's Style

2011-11-04T09:50:00.001-05:00

The Christmas program at church this year is I'll Be Home for Christmas and is set in 1941, just prior to the attacks on Pearl Harbor. As a choir member, our costumes are 1940's style dress. Although this will be challenging to accomplish, I am have fun researching hair styles and make up. Here are a few of the pictures I have found.

I love the creamy skin tones, neutral eye shadows and bold red lipstick colors. I think a key component to the 1940's hairstyle was that it was worn away from the face. This last picture (below) is not a 1940's style, but the look is just as glamorous, in my opinion.

This is my mom's senior picture from 1960. She is still just as stunning today. Love you mom!

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Winds of Change

2011-09-25T17:21:00.000-05:00

Our summer was spent preparing. Preparing Christopher for college life. Preparing for the empty nest. Preparing for a new school year.

We prepared for change.

Texas is suffering a historical drought. I read yesterday that in Central Texas, we endured 96 days of temperatures over 100 degrees. Water levels in Lake Brownwood are the lowest I have ever seen and the Water Improvement District has just imposed Stage 3 water restrictions. Kevin's boat repair business is dependent on lake recreation. No rain, no boating. No boating, no repair work. As the weeks of summer rolled by, the amount of work dwindled.

We prepared for change.

In the evenings, Kevin spent a great deal of time looking for other employment. Daily, he scoured the want ads, spent endless hours on employment websites and mailed resumes. He called friends, called in favors. There is very little out there.

We prepared for change.

We worried, cried, got angry, yelled and cried some more. We entertained the "what-if's" and discussed the "how do we's".

We prepared for change...but God is faithful.

I prayed. And prayed. ‘God, please let Kevin find a job. Please send boats to be fixed. Please help us pay off our debt. Give us wisdom. Please let it rain. God, how are we going to pay for Christopher’s college expenses, the house payment, groceries? Lord, help!’

God is faithful.

Instead of making it rain, or sending boats to be fixed or giving him a job that would provide a comfortable lifestyle, He sent Kevin to HPU as a full-time student. Degree plan: Pre-Law. ‘WHAT!?’

To enter Howard Payne University, each student must take an entrance test (so they know where to place you). That very smart man I married scored 100% on the English Composition portion and 97% on the Sentence Structure portion of that entrance exam. “Honey, I knew you were smart, but that is amazing!”

So, Kevin is taking 15 hours this semester; Honors Government, Communications, Geography, Intermediate Math and Old Testament. God has provided a part-time job with the hospital that works with his class schedule. Kevin still fixes boats on his days off (when there is work) and does what he can to make a living. So far, God has provided for Chris's and Kevin's expenses and we have not been late on one bill. "Thank YOU!"

I don’t know how it will all play out, but I know this: God is at work in our lives. He has done something I never would have dreamed. I don’t know how we will ever make ends meet, but I rely on my Gracious Father for His provision. I struggle with worry and unbelief on a daily basis. But I know God is faithful, so I remind myself to rest in Him.

"Lord, let Your winds of change blow. Scour away all the things of this temporary life and make us look like Jesus, for His Kingdom and Your Glory."

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Fine Arts Friday

2011-07-22T21:36:00.004-05:00

In honor of the Lyric's production of My Fair Lady, I'm posting a clip from the 1964 movie starring Audrey Hepburn.

There are still two chances to see the Lyric's performances this weekend. Saturday, July 24th at 7:30p and Sunday, July 25th at 2:30p.

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First Pro Gig

2011-07-17T17:45:00.001-05:00

Chris has had the great fortune of playing 2nd trumpet in the orchestra for the Lyric Performing Arts Company's production of My Fair Lady. I had to sneek this shot as he wouldn't pose for a picture.

It has been a great experience for him.

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Miss Suzy

2011-07-16T15:37:00.005-05:00

This morning, a friend started me thinking about books I read as a child. After some Google searching, I came across Miss Suzy. This book was my absolute favorite!

Miss Suzy

by Miriam Young

pictures by Arnold Lobel

Parents' Magazine Press, 1964

Miss Suzy is a story about a grey squirrel who loves to clean and cook and sing while she works. She lives alone in a little house in the top of an oak tree until some mean red squirrels take over her cozy home. Forced to find shelter in the attic of a neighboring house, she moves into an abandoned doll house where she befriends a band of toy soldiers who need a mom.

I read this wonderful book countless times. Miss Suzy's love for her home struck a chord in my young heart. Even though I no longer have a copy, I can still remember the story and pictures as if I had read it yesterday. Maybe I will be able to find a first edition again some day...

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Debt Free To Be - Part 2

2011-07-13T17:08:00.004-05:00

Last night at Bible study, we learned how to be wise with our finances. Or, as Beth would say, 'we've come to get us some wisdom about our money'. Since the topic is fresh in my mind, I thought now would be a good time to post an update on our progress of becoming debt-free.

In my original post, Debt Free To Be, I estimated that we were over $100,000 in debt. Scary! That figure included our home, vehicles, loans, credit cards and medical bills.

Today, 14 months later, we have paid our debt down by about $16,500 or 15 percent. $16,500! I keep reminding myself that I changed jobs in August of last year, taking a significant decrease in salary. That we were able to pay any extra amount toward our debt is a miracle.

There are several things I have learned along the way.

Once you decide to become debt-free, something will break, need repairing or some huge expense will come up. Stay on track anyway. If you can't pay extra toward your overall debt for a couple of months, it's okay. Life happens. Keep going.
Every little bit you can pay toward your debt helps.
You can survive and thrive with just your basic needs (expenses).
We (Kevin & I) have too much stuff. We made a list of items that we didn't need or had not used in ages. The money we raise by selling those items will go toward reducing our debt.
It has been fun watching how far God stretches our dollar...and me. He alone is my Provider!

Our goal, this year, is to pay off everything except the house and my car. I can't wait to see where we are on December 31st!

Good job, Holamon family! I think we get a gold star!

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Choosing to Live Better

2011-07-04T11:43:00.000-05:00

1. Read my Bible. Daily.
2. Pray. Daily.
3. Kiss my husband. Daily.
4. Affirm someone. Daily.
5. Count my blessings. Daily.
6. Thank God for it all. Daily.

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Heal our Land, Lord.

2011-07-04T11:28:00.001-05:00

Opening Prayer of the First Continental Congress in Carpenters Hall Philadelphia c1774

courtesy http://www.art.com/.

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

-2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV

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Beauty

2011-07-02T11:27:00.000-05:00

I follow many blogs. Most have a similar theme: homemaking, creative living, cooking, etc. One of my favorites is Far Above Rubies. I love Jasmine's writing and find myself encouraged and uplifted by her offerings. A visit to her blog leaves me feeling warm, welcomed and relaxed. The pictures of art she posts are colorful and captivating. Below is an example.

Woman Reading by Claude Monet courtesy of http://www.art.com/

Enjoy.

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Wising Up

2011-06-16T13:49:00.002-05:00

I just started a summer Bible study, offered on Tuesday evenings, by our Women's Ministry at church. I haven't done a Beth Moore study in a while and her DVD series Wising Up: Whenever Life Happens A Woman's Guide to the Book of Proverbs looked very interesting. After only two session, I can already tell this is going to be one of my favorites! Some of the video sessions are very long (like an hour and a half)! Whew, Beth can talk! If you are able to listen at work, the audio version is broken down into shorter segments at OnePlace.com. Search for Living Proof with Beth Moore, then click the "Broadcast Archives" link (on the left of the page). Wising Up broadcasts are found in the December 2009 - July 2010 sections.

Maybe you will enjoy it as much as I am!

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Where Did Time Go?

2011-06-15T09:16:00.000-05:00

I am horrified! I haven't posted in over 6 months! So many things have happened, so please stay tuned!

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Challenge 2011

2011-01-04T11:08:00.001-06:00

My pastor, challenged our church family to read the Bible through in 2011. Eager to get started, I began my
reading plan a little early. So far, I am on Genesis 25.
About 10 years ago, I attempted to read the Bible through and made it to Romans, then quit. I also found myself reading quickly just to get my daily reading done. This time, my approach will be different.

1. Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance and insight to what God is trying to tell me in His love letter.
2. Read daily, read slowly and apply what I have just read. Make a point to reread any portions I don't understand.
3. If I miss a day or two, pick up where I left off. Just keep going, remembering that God is the God of second chances!

Reading God Word is not a race, but a life-long journey. I'm convinced that God isn't as interested in the accomplishment of reading His Word through (although very important) as He is with changing our hearts and making us into the image of His Son, Jesus. With God's help, I want this to become my lifestyle, not just a goal to reach in 2011.

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.
- 2 Timothy 3:16 NLT

If interested in beginning the journey of reading God's love letter to you, you may find this Bible reading plan helpful.

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Mighty Maroon Marching Band - Brownwood vs Graham Halftime Show

2010-12-24T03:55:00.000-06:00

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Cheesy Bacon Green Bean Casserole Pot Pie...Oh My!

2010-12-24T02:53:00.005-06:00

We are having Christmas dinner at Mom's this year. She isn't a big fan of traditional green bean casserole...it's the mushroom soup....

I happened upon this cheesy version from Picky-Palate that I plan to take tomorrow. Doesn't it look wonderful!?

I say, Yummo!

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Celebrate Jesus

2010-12-16T15:26:00.001-06:00

For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. And the government will rest on his shoulders. These will be his royal titles: Wonderful Counselor,* Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
-Isaiah 9:6 NLT

Wishing you a Christmas filled with love.

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Feathering My Nest

2010-12-16T14:18:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow, I start my Christmas break of 17 wonderful days off! I'm looking forward to spending time with family, cooking, re-organizing and planning for next year's adventures.

I wish you a blessed Christmas.

-Jill

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The View from the Tall Podium

2010-12-15T13:14:00.000-06:00

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2010-09-01T21:59:00.000-05:00

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The Windows of Heaven

2010-08-07T11:52:00.056-05:00

In April of this year, my pastor, preached a series of sermons on Tithes and Offerings.    One Sunday, during this series, a testimony was offered by a sweet sister in Christ and fellow church member. She testified how she had been convicted to tithe regularly even though it wasn't clear how she would pay all of the monthly expenses if she followed in obedience. She told us how God had blessed her and her family not only financially, but also how her times with the Lord had become deeper and richer.
For years, I had been committed to give my 10 percent. However, in the last year and a half, I had become lax in my tithing. During this time I have changed jobs twice, each time taking a pay decrease. Kevin's job wasn't producing the income we were accustomed to either. We were barely making ends meet and in the winter months, it was difficult to buy groceries some weeks. After my friends testimony, I too was convicted and determined to tithe a full 10 percent as soon as I received my paycheck.

Malachi 3: 8-12 says, 8“Should people cheat God? Yet you have cheated me! “But you ask, ‘What do you mean? When did we ever cheat you?’
“You have cheated me of the tithes and offerings due to me. 9 You are under a curse, for your whole nation has been cheating me. 10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! 11 Your crops will be abundant, for I will guard them from insects and disease . Your grapes will not fall from the vine before they are ripe,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. 12 “Then all nations will call you blessed, for your land will be such a delight,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. NLT

I had to admit I was cheating God. Not an easy thing to do, but it was the truth. This passage challenges us to test God. So I did. Every time I wrote a tithe check, I remembered 'I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test!'  I don't know what the windows of Heaven might look like, but, oh my goodness, did they ever open! He began to pour out a blessing on my family that I still can't comprehend. The following is just a portion of the blessings he has lavished on us.

1. My step-dad passed away on June 4th of this year from a lengthy illness. He finished this life strong and clinging to Jesus. My church stepped up and did his funeral, provided the funeral dinner and loved my mom and Nolan's family with the love of Christ.  Neither Nolan, nor my mother, is a member of my church. We were so blessed by their outpouring of love and compassion.

2. Kevin and I have been estranged from our oldest son, Glen, for over 3 years, but God has begun healing our relationship.  If you know Glen, you understand what a miracle this is. I am so thankful for the door God has opened. I intend to take full advantage of the opportunity.

3. Christopher is a senior this year and has recently decided he wants to pursue a Music Degree after high school. Kevin and I haven't had the opportunity to save for his college.  About a month ago, a position came open at Howard Payne University in the Department of Music and Fine Arts.  I looked at the job posting and decided we couldn't afford for me to apply for the job because it was a significant pay decrease. However, the benefits were unbelievable, including a tuition program for dependents.

After about a week of prayer and seeking God's direction, I submitted my application and resume. I needed the Lord to be in the middle of this decision. I love my job and the people I work with at Coldwell Banker. I have never worked in a better office. My prayer was that if this wasn't His will for our family, that He shut this door and the job should go to someone else. I understood He already knew our needs, as well as, Christopher's needs. If I didn't get this job, He would provide for Chris's college another way.

I was called for an interview and was sure I had bombed it. Six days later, the Dean of the School of Music called and offered me the position. I could not believe my ears! I start my new job August 16, 2010.

I now have a deeper love and understanding for this great God I serve. He has revealed himself as Comforter, Healer and Provider. God didn't bless us because I give Him my 10 percent. He doesn't need it. I believe He blessed us because I chose obedience.

I'm still committed to become debt free in 2016. You can read my post about it here.  I haven't a clue how we will do it now that I have taken another pay decrease.  But, if I've learned anything, it is this, God is in control and He owns it all.   By His unfathomable grace, He allows me to manage a tiny portion. My job is to be obedient in what he has called me to do. He will provide.

There have been many, many more blessings he has poured out in these last few months. I wish I could write about them all. He loves us so much more than we can imagine and always has our best interest in mind. I challenge you to be obedient in your tithes and offerings. He may not choose to bless you in the same way he has blessed us, but He is poised to open the windows of Heaven and pour out a blessing so great you won't have enough room to take it in!

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Floyd Nolan Lewis 1945 - 2010

2010-08-04T20:39:00.001-05:00

Funeral Services for Floyd "Nolan" Lewis, age 65, of Early will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday June 7, 2010 at the Davis Morris Funeral Home Chapel with Tim Skaggs officiating, with cremation to follow under the direction of Davis Morris Funeral Home. A private inurnment will be held at a later date. Visitation will be held Sunday evening from 7-8:30 pm at the funeral home. Mr. Lewis passed away June 4, 2010 in Hamilton.

He was born May 16, 1945 in Brown County, Tx to Floyd T. and Leatha "Pete" (Byrd) Lewis. Nolan married Carrol Ruder on June 4, 1992 in Brownwood , Tx. He worked for 33 years at Potters Industries at Lake Brownwood and served as plant manager for several of those years.

Nolan is survived by his wife Carrol Lewis of Early; a daughter, Sherry Ferguson and husband Jackie of Coleman; son, Keith Lewis and wife Alicia of Lake Brownwood; Stepdaughter, Jill Holamon and husband Kevin of Early; step son, David Ruder and wife Christy of Burleson, Tx; four grandchildren; one great grandchild ;7 step grandchildren; two brothers, Donald Lewis and wife Betty of Brownwood, and Dennis Lewis and wife Dot of Lake Brownwood; and a sister, Vonda Simmons and husband Delton of Midland.

Condolences may be made to the family at http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Floyd-Lewis&lc=7506&mid=4274596

Love and miss you Nolan!

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Prom Night 2010

2010-08-04T20:33:00.001-05:00

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Debt Free to Be

2010-04-06T15:43:00.001-05:00

Last year, I subscribed to Dave Ramsey's My Total Money Makeover. I started well, but didn't work the Baby Steps like he recommended. As predicted, I didn't stick with it.

Thank goodness every day is a new day! This week, I started over again with more determination than ever.

I have to say, I really don't think that we are spenders. I'm an avid couponer and watch for sales, we rarely eat out and all of us have been taking a sack lunch to work and school everyday. When we need to buy somethng, we try our hardest to pay cash. This current economic climate has forced us to be extra careful with the money we have.

So why, would we need this program? For me its simple: I'm sick of making monthly payments to someone else every month.

Through his program, Dave teaches you to start by saving $1000 for an emergeny fund, stop all new debt, make minimum payments to your existing debts, examine your monthly expenses and set a budget. Hard work, but so worth it!

In my opinion, the most eye-opening feature is the "Debt Snowball". You start by listing all of your outstanding debt and determine how much extra (over & above the minimum payment) you can contribute to your debt each month. Once you have paid off the smallest debt, you take that monthly payment plus the extra amount and apply it with the minimum payment of the next smallest debt. Once that one is paid off, go to the next and so on.

I listed all of our debt, including the house & land, put it in the Debt Snowball calculator and could not believe my eyes! By paying and extra $100 each month, we could be totally debt free in March of 2016! $50 a month extra and our Debt Free Date is May 2016.

Our total debt is over $100,000. Yep, you read that right! $100K in debt and we could be debt free as early as March of '16.

I'm on a mission!

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All That Jazz

2010-03-15T15:39:00.001-05:00

Chris's Trumpet Solo in the Fall of 2009. This was a mini concert at the Brownwood Sonic.

A New Direction Part 2

2010-03-12T10:56:00.001-06:00

A New Direction Part 1

2010-03-12T10:52:00.001-06:00

Come on SPRING!

2010-03-09T14:19:00.006-06:00

The sun is shining today and planting season is just around the corner. We have had so much rain this Winter (people in Texas NEVER complain about rain), but there is water standing everywhere. I'm planning a large garden this year so I'm getting anxious to till the soil. You might enjoy some pictures of the flowers I planted last Spring in my flower beds. I've forgotten the names of the last two.

Hibiscus

Purple Iris (from Dad)

I Win! I Win!

2010-02-22T20:03:00.003-06:00

Last week I entered Angie's giveaway for a $25 gift card to Kroger.... and WON! I also learned something new and smarter way of collecting those BoxTops I've been clipping! Check out her post here. Thanks Angie...I love Kroger!

Christmas Gifts on an EXTREME Budget

2009-12-29T11:29:00.003-06:00

2009 was not a good year.

Due to the economy and various other factors, we could not seem to get ahead financially. When Christmas came around, I was scrambling to figure out what to do for gifts. Kevin is very good about saving his change all year. We use that savings for Christmas gifts, but this year we really needed it for necessity, thus leaving us with less of a budget for gifts.

Thank you Andrea for your post via Tip Junkie for handmade coasters! I know, I know, your thinking...more coasters?! Well this is where the EXTREME part and some creativity comes into play.

I live in Early, TX and the closest craft store is in Abilene...70 miles away! We have a Walmart, a Staples and Home Depot. With a little creativity, this is my version of Monogrammed Handmade Coasters.

I purchased three boxes of 4 x 4 tiles at Home Depot (a box of 9 cost about $5). First, I sealed them with a light coat of clear sealer. I used a matte finish ($4). Any brand will do, I used the least expensive!

Next, I printed the monogram letters on a clear transparency. (I had these, but you can find them at Staples.)

Using an Exacto knife ($3 at Big Lots), I carefully cut out the letters. With pencil, I traced the letters on each tile. Then, using a permanent, water resistant marker, I colored in the letters. Note: I discovered that the Sharpie brand tends to leave a purply hue, so I chose this brand from Walmart.

Cost - $2

I sealed the tiles again with two more coats of the matte finish sealer. The last items I needed to complete this project were the little round felt dots for the bottoms. Guess what.......nowhere to be found in Brownwood! However....Walmart has felt sheets (8 x 11) for 49 cents each. I bought two and cut 3 x 3 squares (one 3 x 3 square for each tile). Then, glued them to the bottoms with ordinary craft glue (89 cents).

Finished product!

Bundle them together with pretty ribbon or twine, add a name tag and voila!

I made 6 sets of coasters for less than $26 and had lots of fun making them!

Christmas Eve 2009

2009-12-25T14:58:00.001-06:00

Shoveling snow...in Texas.

"You're a Good Girl, Katie."

2009-12-21T13:40:00.002-06:00

We loved you

and will miss you.

Jr. Drum Major - A Season in Pictures Part I

2009-12-18T14:00:00.002-06:00

We were so busy during football season that I didn't have a chance to post pictures of Chris. These are the picture from my camera , Part II will be the pictures from mother's camera. Enjoy.

One of the first home games.

That's Chris is to the right of the center flag. (kinda fuzzy, because he was jumping).

Chris playing his trumpet directly behind the pit member playing the bells.

Brownwood Reunion Parade

Chris's friend Megan.

We quickly discovered that he has his own "unique" directing style. You just have to see it to understand... Please check back, because I have some great video that I will add in a future post.

Marchng Festival - Mineral Wells, TX (cold & pouring rain!)

Mini-Jazz Concert at the Sonic

Marching Festival - Early, TX

Random game photo

UIL Marching Contest - Brady, TX

Division 1 Rating!

So handsome!

God Sees Your Purse

2009-12-10T21:29:00.006-06:00

After work today, I stopped at Kroger to pick up a few things. I was feeling very satisifed with myself that I had remembered some items that we had been low on for a few days...like toothpaste. Kevin also called while I was still there and reminded me to buy cat food. Fabulous...the poor thing won't starve! I was on a roll.

In near record time, I checked out, had the groceries loaded into the back of the car and quickly pushed the cart back into it's "corral". Then I jumped in the car, turned on the heater, and headed home.

Once there, Chris helped me unload. Suddenly, the thought slams into my head....Where is my purse...? Rechecking the car again I realize I have left it....wide open....in the shopping cart....in the parking lot....at KROGER! My feelings of self-satisfaction quickly turned into terror.

Kevin immediately calls Kroger and much to my relief, someone had turned it in to the Customer Service desk. 'A faithful customer found it and turned it in', explained the friendly cashier.

The credit cards, gift cards and cash were still in their place! Nothing had been disturbed.

Some would say I was lucky, but I know different. God was watching out for me...and my purse!

THANK YOU LORD!

Karson Goes to College

2009-08-18T20:45:00.004-05:00

Today was move in day for Karson. He is officially an Abilenian and lives in the dorm at Hardin Simmons University. In searching for a picture for this post, I made a discovery!

I now know why he chose HSU......

They have the same school colors as Early! Duh!

God Bless America

2009-08-14T10:34:00.004-05:00

Wonder Boy & Megara

2009-08-01T23:20:00.003-05:00

How NOT to cut your hair!

2009-08-01T22:39:00.005-05:00

Because you have to do THIS to fix it!

Boys will be boys.

Wise Words

2009-06-28T20:14:00.003-05:00

"You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich. You cannot strengthen
the weak by weakening the strong. You cannot bring about
prosperity by discouraging thrift. You cannot lift the wage earner up by
pulling the wage payer down. You cannot further the
brotherhood of man by inciting class hatred... You cannot build
character and courage by taking away people's initiative and
independence. You cannot help people permanently by doing for them what
they could and should do for themselves."

~ Abraham Lincoln

Ancient Words

2009-05-26T23:03:00.002-05:00

Lyrics | Michael W. Smith lyrics - Ancient Words lyrics

How do you spell Drum Major?

2009-05-18T21:56:00.003-05:00

C-H-R-I-S B-U-R-N-E-T-T !

Yeah! Mom is SO Proud!

Birthday Fun

2009-04-17T20:32:00.007-05:00

Well, the "youngest"turned 16 this past Saturday! He invited several friends over for the day. To our surprise only girls showed up....(do you think that was planned?)

The festivities included 4-wheeler rides, brisket with all the trimmings, presents, a scavanger hunt and ....

an Easter Egg hunt....after all Chris was born on Easter.

Of course we had cake...

Happy Birthday Christopher!

Tennis Anyone?

2009-04-17T20:14:00.007-05:00

Here are some more pics of Karson at his District Tennis Tournament.

Savoring the moment!

These girls RAWK!

2009-04-16T21:11:00.001-05:00

Tennis Super Starz!

2009-04-14T22:27:00.002-05:00

Early’s doubles team of Karson Holamon (left) and Addison Ebarb are the first Longhorns to advance out of district in tennis since 1960.

Bulletin Staff Report

Early and Bangs will both be represented at the Region I-2A tennis tournament in Odessa on April 21-22 after their performances at the recent District 8-2A tournament in Brady. For the first time since 1960, Early has an entry in the regional field as the boys doubles team of Karson Holamon and Addison Ebarb finished as the runners-up at the district meet.
Meanwhile, Bangs sophomore Abby Hall, a state qualifier last season, is headed back to regionals after placing second in girls singles action. Hall, who earlier this season won the singles draw at the Santa Anna tournament, advanced to the district final before falling to Tayler Hibler of San Saba.

The Early duo received a first-round bye, then Holamon and Ebarb opened play with a 6-0, 6-1 win over the Comanche team of Plumlee-Hodges. In the semifinals, the Longhorns recorded a 6-1, 7-5 victory that earned them both a berth in the district championship match and the regional tournament. Holamon and Ebarb were denied a district championship as they suffered a 6-1, 0-6, 6-3 loss to San Saba’s Keys-Gonzales team.

Lee Jones and Jay Bahtka also reached the boys doubles semifinals for Early, while Lady Horn sophomore Kathy Hurtado advanced to the consolation championship match.

Behind as usual...

2009-04-09T22:39:00.001-05:00

I have tons of stuff to post, but haven't had the time. Hopefully I can get caught up this weekend.

Life is Short

2009-04-03T22:02:00.010-05:00

Life is short....this is a beautiful lesson...

The girl in the picture is Katie Kirkpatrick, she is 21. Next to her, her fiancé, Nick, 23. The picture was taken shortly before their wedding ceremony, held on January 11, 2005 in the US . Katie has terminal cancer and spends hours a day receiving medication. In the picture, Nick is waiting for her on one of the many sessions of chemo to end.

In spite of all the pain, organ failures, and morphine shots, Katie is going along with her wedding and took care of every detail. The dress had to be adjusted a few times due to her constant weight loss.

An unusual accessory at the party was the oxygen tube that Katie used throughout the ceremony and reception as well. The other couple in the picture are Nick's parents. Excited to see their son marrying his high school sweetheart.

Katie, in her wheelchair with the oxygen tube, listening to a song from her husband and friends.

At the reception, Katie had to take a few rests, The pain not allowing her to stand for long periods.

Katie died five days after her wedding day. Watching a woman so ill and weak getting married and with a smile on her face makes us think..... Happiness is reachable, no matter how long it lasts.

We should stop making our lives complicated.

Life is short.
Forgive quickly,
kiss passionately,
love truly, laugh constantly
and never stop smiling, no matter how strange life is.
Life is not always the party we expected it to be,
but as long as we are here, we should smile and be grateful.

I don't know where this story originated or if the facts are accurate, but the message is clear. I hope it moves you as it moved me. We all know someone who has been afflicted by this terrible disease. May we never forget that
PRAYER UNLEASHES THE POWER OF GOD!

Two Wolves

2009-04-03T21:57:00.003-05:00

Two Wolves

One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people.

He said, "My son, the battle is between two 'wolves' inside us all.

One is Evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.

The other is Good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith.

"The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, "Which wolf will win?"

The old Cherokee simply replied, "The one you feed."

Happy Aniversary to Us!

2009-03-07T19:45:00.003-06:00

Kevin and I have put up with one another for 11 years now. We are as different as night and day and we don't always agree, but I'm thankful we have both determined to stick it out...no matter what.

Thanks, honey...I'm certain the best is yet to come.

Biker Babes

2009-01-19T21:43:00.004-06:00

Getting ready to ride.

We're on our way!

Auto-loading music feature

2009-01-19T21:05:00.004-06:00

I just read a blog post (I won't mention the name) about the auto-loading music feature. This post discouraged using the feature since some readers could be at work or have a sleeping baby nearby. With speakers turned up, the music could wake the baby or disrupt office production.

Although, I can understand this thinking, I must respectfully disagree. Music is in my soul and being that this is my blog, the feature will remain. If the music bothers you, by all means, scroll to the bottom of this page and click the pause button or mute your speakers.

....my speakers are turned up, full-blast.

Four-Wheelin' Fun

2009-01-18T15:06:00.007-06:00

Makenna & Peyton were here for the weekend and spent some time 4- wheelin' with Christopher.

Fun times!

Kevin is 45!

2009-01-12T22:06:00.003-06:00

Hope your day is WONDERFUL!

Need Inspiration?

2009-01-06T21:39:00.004-06:00

I have been at a loss about what to post for the New Year and today I received two great videos. This one is from Katrina.

I hope you were inspired. I was.

We will Transcend

2009-01-06T21:27:00.002-06:00

This video was sent to me from my friend Terrie...reminding me why I cherish all the women in my life.

Thanks Terrie!

Merry Christmas

2008-12-24T15:34:00.003-06:00

I can't believe how quick Christmas came this year! With my job change, Christopher's schedule and Kevin's job(s), I didn't even have time to put cards in the mail. It seem like everything we do these day is at a dead run!

Our wish for you this Christmas season is that you would have time to slow down, rest and enjoy family and friends. To reflect on what is important and remember how blessed we all are.

Wise men still seek Him.

Merry Christmas.

The Sound of Music

2008-12-08T21:42:00.003-06:00

Chris has been performing in The Sound of Music. He portrays Freidrich, the eldest of the Von Trapp boys.

Doe a deer, a female deer......

The Sound of Music cast.

Everyone has done an amazing job and the show is a huge succcess. I'm very proud of you Christopher!

Big Buck Down!

2008-12-01T11:06:00.008-06:00

Karson bagged the big one last night!

He and Kevin looked and looked for him for several hours last night. At one point Karson said he thought he was going to be sick because he thought they had lost him. Then, thankfully, he spotted him up near the fence line.

Even Morris Kitty was excited.

Way to go Karson!

Guess I better go clean out the freezer to make room for all that venison....

All is Bright

2008-12-01T10:37:00.009-06:00

When we first moved into the Holamon House two years ago, we found tons of old telephone insulators. I'm always hesitant to throw things away, so I've been storing them in a box in the closet. I know they have some value and, I suppose, some day I'll sell them.

I came across an article in the December 2008 issue of Country Home Magazine with an idea how to decorate with them. I have a large mantle over the fireplace and knew it was the perfect place to put this idea to use.

I hung the snowflakes from fishing line attached to the ceiling. The heat from the fireplace makes the move and sparkle.

The finished product made me squeal with glee!

Gratitude Tree (My Version)

2008-12-01T10:17:00.004-06:00

Several weeks ago I posted a picture of a Gratitude Tree that I saw on another site and mentioned that I was going to do one too. I thought it was a good way to remember our blessings and a great way to appease my creative side. Well....I got the tree done, but didn't have time to add the leaves. I found some branches that had fallen off the trees, stuck them in a clear vase my mom gave me and secured them with pine cones (also a gift from mom). I liked the way it looked so much, I've decided to leave it up year round. After all, we should be thankful all the time....not just at Thanksgiving.

For Christmas, I'll hang inexpensive ornaments (balls) with blessings written on them. A pretty ribbon would look great too!

Thanksgiving at Zephyr 2008

2008-12-01T09:43:00.001-06:00

Community Thanksgiving Day Dinner

2008-11-30T21:21:00.013-06:00

Christopher and I helped serve the community this year with Dad, Paula, Heather and Taylor.

Dad read somewhere that we served over 1900 people! Wow!

Look at this cute couple all decked out in their Thanksgiving Day finest!

We helped by cutting and serving Pumpkin pie....lots and lots of Pumpkin pies.

It's hard work and everyone was tired, but we all were glad to help. On top of that, they let us eat too!

The Wizard of Oz

2008-11-30T21:00:00.007-06:00

Karson portrayed Zeke in The Wizard of Oz at school. It was a cute show and he did a great job.

Too bad Kevin wasn't there to watch it with us. He had been to the dentist earlier in the day and had taken some pain meds before the show. He spent 2 1/2 hours out in the car...trying not to yack.... poor Kevin.

Saying Goodbye

2008-11-19T20:52:00.004-06:00

Last Friday was my last day at Nelson Wholesale. The slideshow above contains pictures of some of my friends there that made life bearable during my last weeks. Many to thanks to all of you! I miss you guys!

11/30/08 Note: I removed the slide show...sorry.

Say Cheese!

2008-11-15T21:38:00.003-06:00

My friend Brooklyn and her "mailbox".

And the Winner is....

2008-11-09T15:40:00.008-06:00

This morning we woke up to find this just outside the back door.

No.......it's not sleeping.........it's dead.

Now, for all you animal lover's out there that just got a little nervous, you can relax. I'm a pretty light sleeper and I can assure you there wasn't a nail-biting, dog vs. critter war going on in the back yard last night. I'm pretty confident that the poor thing was played with to death.

Jax looks overly proud...doesn't he. Someone really should tell him that this is young racoon.

The next time he may not be so lucky.

Cultivating an Attitude of Gratitude

2008-11-07T10:41:00.009-06:00

Family

For the past several years I have been thinking of how much we are blessed and I'm thankful for the large family I have. Kevin's family alone is huge. He has his dad, two siblings and cousins ( 1st, 2nd and 3rd generation), aunts, uncles and Granny Doris. They all spend the holidays together. With this bunch, if you aren't a Holamon in some form or fashion, come on over anyway and you'll be treated like one. It's a time of too much food, fun, and a house full of laughter.

I'm thankful that I still have both sets of parents and that they live very close. Heather and her family are here, too. I wish David lived closer so that we could see him and his family more often. All of my extended family lives "somewhere north of the Red River" so I haven't had the opportunity to get to know them like I wanted. Even still, God has blessed me with a large family and many good friends.

So, today's post is about family. Take time to reflect on the blessing of family. I've learned that family can be spouses, kids, parents, friends, co-workers, our Church family and in some instances... pets.

Although we may not agree all the time, you are very important to me and vital to my well-being and growth.

Thank you.

Operation Christmas Child

2008-11-06T14:43:00.006-06:00

I love this time of year and look forward to putting together shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child , an outreach ministry of Samaritan's Purse. We are blessed with so much and I'm so thankful that I have an opportunity and an avenue to give to someone who may not be as fortunate. Would you consider sharing some of your blessings by packing a shoe box? It is an awesome way to share the love of Christ with a hurting child.

The local collection site for the Brownwood area is:

The Christian Education Building

Coggin Avenue Baptist Church

1815 Coggin Avenue

Brownwood, TX 76801

325-646-1506

Collection Dates: Monday, November 17 - Monday, November 24, 2008

Please follow the links for more information about Operation Chrsitmas Child and Samaritan's Purse.

Gratitude Tree

2008-11-06T11:09:00.006-06:00

I found this idea on my insanity, a blog I stalk.......I mean, read. With all the busyness of our lives, this will be a great reminder of the blessings we all have, but very often never realize.
Thanks Kendra!

Get out and Vote!

2008-11-04T08:03:00.002-06:00

This little guy is so cute!

About me

2008-11-03T15:04:00.017-06:00

A couple of my blog friends inspired me; so I thought I'd give this a shot too.

Check mine out then post yours, if you care...

Use Google images to track down images to the following questions:

1) How Old Are You?

2) What is Your Middle Name?

(I totally want to wear THIS to work!)

3) What is your Dream Vacation Destination?

4) Where were you born?

I'm the first Texan in my family and proud of it!

5) What is your favorite color?

6) What do you do at work?

How'd I do?

My Man

2008-10-29T16:51:00.002-05:00

I've Been Everywhere in Texas

2008-10-21T07:24:00.000-05:00

Attitude is Everything

2008-10-17T11:20:00.003-05:00

ATTITUDE

There once was a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror, and noticed she had only three hairs on her head. "Well," she said, "I think I'll braid my hair today."?

So she did and she had a wonderful day.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only two hairs on her head. "H-M-M, " she said, "I think I'll part my hair down the middle today."?

So she did and she had a grand day.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that she had only one hair on her head. "Well," she said, "Today I'm going to wear my hair in a pony tail." So she did and she had a fun, fun day.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that there wasn't a single hair on her head. "YEAH!" she exclaimed, "I don't have to fix my hair today!"

Attitude is everything.

"Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle."

Words, Words, Words

2008-10-13T11:25:00.002-05:00

I love words. I love to read, I love the WORD and I love any kind of art that incorporates words....especially Scripture. I came across this link today and thought you might enjoy it. If you care, go here .

I wish my walls were done so I could display one of these quotes .

In Texas, You Need a Good Hat

2008-10-07T10:14:00.003-05:00

...even for playing your trumpet.

Words of LIFE: How to Survive a Bad Economy

2008-10-06T16:57:00.003-05:00

This landed in my inbox today....not sure who Randy Robison is, but it put things into perspective for me. Enjoy...

by Randy Robison
"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth,where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves breakin and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 6:19-21)
There's a lot of talk about the economy these days. The stock market is taking a beating, homes are being foreclosed and the dollar is losing value. The news is full of doom and gloom, so people are worried. Accusations of thievery and mismanagement abound. But when the blame is set aside and the financial intricacies are stripped away, what is the core issue?
Mark Punzo, a friend of the ministry who works at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, recently asked me, "What is something worth?"
It didn't take me long to reply, "Whatever somebody will pay for it."
"So what are you worth?" he asked. I admit my first thought went to life insurance actuary tables. My salary times x number of years before I retire.
But I knew that wasn't what he was driving at, so I guessed, "Whatever someone will pay me?"
"Whatever someone will pay for you," he corrected. Then he asked a question that really bent my mind. "What did God pay for you?"
Now I got it. God paid for me with His only Son's blood. It certainly wasn't the first time I'd heard that principle, but it was the first time I had heard it put that way. It struck me hard. Is that really the value God places on me? Am I worth the sacrifice of Jesus Christ? Why don't I act like it?
"When God spoke that to me," Mark continued, "He then said, 'Look at all the people around you. That's what they are worth to Me, too.'"
What incredible value! You, your loved ones, your acquaintances and even the people you don't know are by far the most valuable things ever created, worth more than any company's stock, assets or investments.
So why is it that we seem to be more concerned about our retirement plans than our relatives? Why do we react to an economic crisis with more urgency than a spiritual crisis? Do we really see the value in ourselves and in other people that God sees?
I confess that I take people for granted. If I spotted a $20 bill in the gutter, I'd stop to pick it up. But I have passed right by a person lying in the gutter without any second thoughts. I think perhaps my sense of value is askew. As a "responsible" husband and father, I spend time laying up treasure on earth for medical bills, college and (hopefully, some day) retirement. But those things will all pass away. My daughter's car will eventually break down and rust, but her spirit is eternal. My son's braces will give him a nice smile for a while, but what kind of man will he be when his teeth are falling out and his looks don't matter any more?
I have decided to not worry about the economy. Good or bad, God is in control. I can only have one response if I want to hold on to anything of value: invest in the things in which God has invested.
You are worth what God paid for you. So is your spouse, your child and your neighbor. If you want to be rich, don't look to your bank account. It will fail you. Look to the people in your life and invest in them. Then you will be truly prosperous, no matter what the economy does. And unlike the wealth of this world, you can take it with you forever.

This Week:
Don't worry about the economy; just make good investments. Deposit your time and love into someone's life.

Prayer:
"Father, forgive me for focusing on the temporal things of this earth. Help me to see the value in people that You see and lay up treasure in heaven by investing in them."

Maybe Next Time

2008-10-06T11:23:00.005-05:00

Kevin went hunting early, early Sunday morning. At 7:30am my phone rings and on the other end is this shaky voice saying, 'I think I got him......I think I got him!' So I grab my camera and out the door I go... p.j.'s and all....

Looking for the blood trail.

After a while, I helped look. Unfortunately, we found the arrow, clean and no sight of blood.

Keep trying Kevin....you'll get him!

The look of disappointment. :(

McMurry Festival of Bands- Abilene, TX

2008-10-06T11:10:00.007-05:00

Saturday, we travelled to Abilene for the McMurry Festival of Bands. The Brownwood Lion Band was awarded a Division I rating and won Festival Grand Champion Band and the Outstanding Color Guard award.

Chris has a solo at the very beginning of the first song.

That's Chris, playing his solo, just to the left of the 50 yard line.

Megan Irwin playing her solo.

Judge's critique.

Outstanding Band Member of the Week

2008-10-06T11:08:00.002-05:00

Chris Burnett
(mom is so proud!)

Rock and Roll Friday at BHS

2008-10-06T10:55:00.004-05:00

David Bowie has nothing on Christopher.... he would have fit right in in the '80's!

Ferocious Beast on the Critter Cam

2008-10-04T10:06:00.003-05:00

Morris kitty!

Happy Birthday Peyton!

2008-10-03T16:49:00.001-05:00

BubbleShare: Share photos - Play some Online Games.

Out on a Limb

2008-10-02T09:07:00.003-05:00

I found this while cleaning out my computer today.....

Repurposed Treasure

2008-10-01T07:39:00.008-05:00

My mom told me a story of when I was 3 years old she asked me what I wanted for my birthday. Instead of baby dolls or other typical girl stuff, I asked for a dump truck. And that is exactly what mom and dad bought.
It was big with shiny blue paint and the bed of it actually dumped! By today's standards, it isn't a toy suitable for children as it had parts that pinched little fingers, lots of sharp metal edges and weighed about 12 pounds. If you dropped it on your foot, it could cause some serious damage!

I can remember playing with that thing for hours and hours with David and Heather. We filled it with dirt and rocks...... or the cat if we could get the poor thing to sit still long enough....

Being a gardener at heart, I even planted a few weeds in it from time to time.

Over the years, the paint chipped off and it lost a few wheels, but Dad held on to it thinking someday someone would "fix it up". It lived in his shop for at least 30 years until an idea hit me a few weeks ago.

When Dad brought it to me, it was like it was new all over again. Christopher thought I had lost my mind getting so excited about an old rusty piece of junk. But I knew what its new purpose was and couldn't wait to get it home.

Now it sits on my shelf (rust and all), proudly displayed for everyone to see and holds some of my favorite books.

Thanks Dad, for keeping it all these years.

Water Walkers

2008-09-30T13:42:00.001-05:00

Weeks become months.
Months become years...
One day you're looking back on a life of....
Deep intimate gut-wrenchingly honest conversations you never had.
Great bold prayers you never prayed,
Exhilarating risks you never took,
Sacrificial gifts you never offered.

Lives you never touched.

And you're sitting in a recliner with a
shriveled soul,
And forgotten dreams.
You realize there was a world of
desperate need,
And a great God calling you to be part of something bigger than yourself-
You see the person you could have become but did not.
You never followed your calling...You never got out of the boat.
-Greg Levoy

The Big One!

2008-09-29T13:51:00.001-05:00

Oh my! That's a nice deer.

The Sound of Music

2008-09-26T11:00:00.005-05:00

Mark you calendars! Chris will be playing the part of Friedrich in The Sound of Music at the HPU Theater. The musical will be performed over the first two weekends in December - Dec. 4-7 and Dec. 11-14.

We covet your prayers as Chris's schedule is horrendous already.

I got skillz!

2008-09-25T14:45:00.005-05:00

Can I just say that I love this new blogging thing and I am learning so much. The only down side is I'm not getting any work done! Ssshhhhh. Don't tell the boss.....

Jesus Freaks

2008-09-24T09:20:00.005-05:00

Monday, the Youth of Coggin started 40 Day Revolution. Chris and I have been doing it together. We are called to fast and pray for 40 days. One activity we were to do is to place a rock somewhere (where you would see it everyday) on your campus or home or workplace to remind us to pray. The thought here is God had David use a smooth stone to slay Goliath. The rocks remind us that God is slaying our giants through our prayers.

Chris had the idea to paint a cross on the rocks, so at 9:00pm last night we were sitting in the floor taping them up and spray painting them. In a tender mother - son moment, I confessed to Chris that his mom was a Jesus Freak. With out hesitation, he responded...'Mom,.... your son is a Jesus Freak.'

SYATP 2008

2008-09-24T09:09:00.005-05:00

This morning, Chris & I went to See You at the Pole at Brownwood High School.

Critter Cam

2008-09-23T14:39:00.012-05:00

Kevin has a new toy. Affectionately called the "Critter Cam". He bought an extra memory stick so he can swap them out every night. He's looking for the "big one", but I kinda like looking at the other critters.

1st Day of Autumn!

2008-09-23T14:19:00.004-05:00

Look what popped up in the front yard. I had been mowing these "weeds" down for the past 2 years. I'm going to transplant them in the flower bed. They are called Spider Lilies......beautiful!

Gone Fishing

2008-07-29T20:07:00.011-05:00

Kevin & the boys went fishing last Saturday. I stayed home under the air conditioner! Duh ! IT was like 100 degrees outside! Karson's fish was the biggest. Chris was a little put out with Kevin because he "accidentally" let one of his fish go.

All in all I think they had a pretty good day!