As I've mentioned several times on my blog that I love to visit the Millry State Lake for peaceful writing time, yesterday was no exception and exactly what I needed to wind down from a busy, yet fun and eventful week. With just a few fishermen casting their lines from the shoreline, I sat at my favorite table beneath the pavilion and tossed around ideas for this Mother's Day post. After a flip through the pages of my proposal for T.J.'s story, The Human Candidate, a portion from the middle section jumped out at me and ultimately became the focus for this special post.
The photo below is a snapshot of one of my dearest friends, Anita McDonald and her family on summer vacation last year. Anita is the mother to Alyssa, age 5; Tucker age 16; and T.J. age 21. She is the wife to Carey McDonald and is the most selfless person I have ever met. 
Before I share Anita's experience, I would like to say this post is dedicated to all of you mothers out there who have stood by and watched as your children have suffered from a disease or an injury. You, too, are my hero, and I admire your strength and determination to make life easier for these special children.
An account from the day that changed Anita's life forever: September 25, 2010:
After meeting with doctors from the University of South Alabama Medical Center and learning her oldest child was completely paralyzed from the chest down, Anita took the elevator down three levels to the waiting area of the hospital in order to mentally process the upsetting news. With tears streaking down her cheeks, memories of the twenty-one years spent raising her son drifted in and out of her mind.
She was angry at first but eventually realized life would go on regardless if her son could walk or not. T.J. was the same person on the inside, and that was all that mattered to her.
A few minutes later, she returned to the elevator to break the devastating news to her father. Indeed, this was an announcement she did not want to make, but with all the other family members falling apart at the seams, this was something she had to do.
Just as the elevator doors were about to close, a young man in a wheelchair stuck his hand inside. Anita took a deep breath and watched him push himself inside the elevator. Trying her best to contain her emotions, she was unable to hold back the warm tears that filled her eyes. As if time stood still, she envisioned her son trying to go about his daily life in a wheelchair. It was a thought she could not imagine.
Anita swallowed hard once again and was able to regain her thoughts. Somehow the tears went away. Realizing this moment was no coincidence at all, she took advantage of being alone with the young man in the elevator. In almost a soft whisper, she tapped him on the shoulder and asked what led to his paralysis. He turned his head with a warm smile across his face and replied that he, too, was involved in a car accident, leaving him paralyzed from the chest down.
Anita explained T.J.’s situation and revealed the diagnosis her son had received. The young man detected the concern in her eyes, so he did his best to ca
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By: Tory,
on 5/8/2011
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By: Tory,
on 4/24/2011
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The kiddos and I enjoying our Easter Sunday together - Tory, Courtney, Catie, Carlie and Conner
Courtney and me
Courtney, me and Mom posing for a few pics...
Catie and me 
The cutest twinkies in the world - Carlie and Conner
Gram with a few of her grands...
I hope you all had a blessed and happy Easter surrounded by those you love most! Love, Tory
By: Tory,
on 4/8/2011
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I must confess, it's relatively rare these days that I sit at my computer and wonder what I'm going to type. Hah! If only my fingertips could move as fast as the thoughts in my head. Indeed, the impact of TJ's story weighs heavy on my mind, pressing my heart with each word that he shares during our interviews. 
Usually there is plenty of time for laughter...he makes certain of this!
The struggles TJ has faced, the obstacles he has overcome, yet through it all a smile has remained on his face. He is one of the sweetest, most heartfelt 21-year-olds I've ever known; so poised and confident that everything happens for a reason. As the mother of a six-year-old little boy named Conner, I pray each day that my son will look to TJ as a role model and follow his example of dealing with the uncertainties of life in a positive manner.
I admire TJ the most because he is willing to put himself out there for all to judge with a keen eye, even sacrificing his privacy in order to help millions who are suffering and in pain. He believes that for every disabled person he inspires, his efforts are well worth every minute spent.
This privilege I have been given to write TJ's story is an enormous responsibility - one that I do not and will not take lightly under any circumstance. He is one that can, and will, inspire many people; and I will do my best to convey his story while respecting those who have given him the opportunity to move forward with his life.
Thanks to the leadership and guidance of our literary agent, G. Mac Mackie of Old North Agency, TJ and I feel confident that The Human Candidate will be placed in the hands of the best editors and publishers in the literary industry. Mr. Mackie has gone above and beyond what we expected in an agent, and TJ and I feel very blessed to have him on board.
Now, before I sign off for the night, I promised on March 23rd that a special event would take place today. So...
By: Tory,
on 4/1/2011
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"We are sorry to inform you that your project is not a match for us at this time." It's the sentence that every writer dreads to receive in their inbox. Yet, unfortunately, this happens all to often to newbie writers before they are successful in gaining literary representation for their projects.
From the first query letters I sent out for The Human Candidate, I realized that finding a literary agent was not going to be simple. There had to be a substantial amount of research performed and a polished proposal to support my qualifications for being the perfect person to write this incredible story. So, instead of allowing self doubt to get the best of me, I rolled up my sleeves and I went to work!
Now some of you following this blog may wonder why TJ chose me to write his story in the first place. Well, I hope that in the near future you will have the opportunity to shake this young man's hand and ask him this and other questions for yourself. But for now, I'll do my best to provide you an answer.
From the moment I stood by TJ's bedside in Atlanta, I knew from the look in his eyes and the calmness in his voice that he chose me for a reason. TJ knew that I was willing to go the extra mile without compromising the respect and dedication of those who had worked tirelessly to help him and his family. He knew that I would adhere to his wishes regardless the outcome or the pressure from others to reveal more than I should.
TJ and I relate to one another's pain and sufferings in life and understand when the other says, "Sometimes you just have to make the best of a bad situation and find a way to move forward!" We get that disease and injury spares no family...it's not a question of "If" but "When" a close family member, neighbor, classmate, or co-worker is diagnosed with a chronic illness or becomes injured due to an accident. We understand that life is worth living and worth helping as many people along the way.
After creating a solid plan for writing and publishing The Human Candidate, TJ and I decided that it was best to seek legal advice and find a literary agent. So tonight my Dear Friends, it is with great pleasure to announce that we have signed an author/agent agreement with Mr. G. Mac Mackie, as he will represent TJ and I on this writing endeavor to find a home for The Human Candidate.
A few weeks ago, I stumbled on and quickly fell in love with the tone of Mr. Mackie's Web site and the feeling of resonance with the word choice and theme for his blogposts. I loved that Mr. Mackie was young and enthusiastic for finding the next William Faulkners, Flannery O’Connors and Harper Lees of the South. Not only did Mr. Mackie have editorial experience with three of the most notable publishing houses in New York, but he also had a small client list which meant he would have time and energy to focus on our project.
For TJ and his family, it is such an honor to take part in this remarkable journey, and I am forever grateful for the confidence Mr. Mackie has found in me. Above all, I thank God for giving TJ and I strength to persevere, and our families and friends for supporting our efforts to bring this story to life.
Much love, everyone, and have a wonderful weekend! ~ Tory
By: Tory,
on 3/23/2011
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A series of posts re: The Human Candidate...
It's so hard to know if this is the right way to do this, but holding back any longer will only make T.J. and I go stir crazy! I am going to spare you the rabbit chase and pretend as if I am speaking to one of my closest friends. In other words, you are getting raw, unfiltered honesty, which in my opinion is the best way to deliver an important announcement. Okay, everyone...this is the secret project I've been working on since November 2010!
Almost six months ago, my mom called shortly before 8 o'clock on a Saturday morning to tell me that a close family friend named Timothy (or T.J. as most refer to him) was involved in a terrible automobile accident. Mom could barely get the words out. T.J. had suffered a severe injury to his spinal cord and was being air-ambulanced to a regional medical center some 60 miles away.
I had known and loved T.J.'s family for a very long time, which made the news of his accident extremely difficult to process in my mind. His mother Anita was one of my best friends and had raised my four children along with three nephews at her daycare in Chatom. Indeed, this family was special - some of the sweetest and most generous folks in the world. I could only imagine how terrified Anita felt. She and T.J. were extremely close; she would be devastated if he took a turn for the worse.
After being airlifted to a regional medical facility in south Alabama, twenty-one-year-old T.J. underwent extensive surgery for injuries suffered to his spinal cord. Despite the meticulous care he was given, he never regained movement or sensation below his chest. But typical T.J., he never gave up hope that one day he would walk again. Upon his request, his parents made contact with the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, and within twenty-four hours he was transferred to the renowned treatment and rehabilitation facility.
Based on many factors surrounding T.J.’s condition, doctors determined he was the perfect candidate for a clinical trial using GRNOPC1, a drug containing embryonic stem cells and designed to regenerate damaged spinal cord tissue. Therefore, on October 8, 2010, T.J. agreed to participate in a clinical trial procedure (the first of its kind) in which doctors injected the injured area of his spinal cord with over two-million embryonic stem cells.
Please take a moment to watch this video from ABC:
Geron Corp. Begins First Embryonic Stem Cell Treatment on Patient for Spinal Cord Injuries - ABC News
After months of researching, interviewing, and planning the best way to announce this super-secret project, T.J. and I have determined it is best to begin this journey slowly, as we are hopeful some of you out there reading this will support our efforts to bringing The Human Candidate to life. Anyone interested in learning more about this project may contact me through email or leave a comment below. I assure you, you will receive a response!!!
In closing, I would like to encourage all of you to support T.J. by leaving a few words of encouragement in the comment section below. On April 8th, 2011, T.J. will draw 10 special winners from those who have commented - winners will receive an autographed poster and T'shirt w/ T.J.'s logo on the front pocket. Stay tuned to Head in the Clouds as more details of this drawing will be posted in the following days.
Most importantly, your prayers for T.J. for a full recovery is abundantly appreciated. Have a great Friday, everyone! Love, Tory
By: Tory,
on 3/4/2011
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Yesterday after work I made a dashing trip to Mobile in order to purchase decorations and presents for the kiddo's b'day party this weekend. With Mardi Gras festivities taking place in downtown Mobile, I feared most party supply stores would be overflowing with enthusiastic parade-goers and such. To much surprise, however, I was able to zig-zag through traffic, find a great parking spot, and mark everything off my list in less than thirty minutes.
So with extra time on my hands, I phoned the BFF's that live in Mobile, Dana and Tarah, and asked if they could join me for a few hours of shopping. Unfortunately, Dana had committed to parental-duties for the night, but Tarah was available to meet. Because it had been over a month since seeing her last, I was thrilled she had not made plans for the evening.
After traumatizing the crowd with our squealing embrace, Tarah and I decided to grab a bite to eat at Chick-fil-A before hittin' the shops. As I scanned the overhead menu (They have the best fries in the world, right?), Tarah reached inside her purse and pulled out an Avett Brothers CD. "This is for you," she said with a sheepish smile across her face. "The best songs are #3 and #5!" This was such a nice surprise as music has always been one of my favorite gifts/happies.
Tarah knows me well! I listened to the CD on my drive home to Millry and quickly fell in love with #3 and #5. I didn't expect the lyrics to stir emotions the way it did, but just as the written word, I was able to step out of the chaos of daily life and reconnect with that which is simple and tranquil. Though the video below doesn't reflect my interpretation of the lyrics, I wanted to share #3 from the CD: Head full of doubt/Road full of promise. My favorite line - Decide what to be and go be it! Have a great weekend, everyone! Love, Tory
By: Tory,
on 2/12/2011
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For the past few days, I've tossed around ideas for this post, going from adventure stories of the amazing kiddos, to an update on the dayjob (which I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE), but I quickly realized this post should not be about me at all, it should be about someone else.
Now, some of you are probably thinking, "Uh, oh! Where's she going with this post?" Hah! I assure you, my goal is to be uplifting and enthusiastic for what's to come in the near future to readers across America and abroad (our neighbors across the pond have shown great interest in the topic as well). This is the first in a series of posts that will shed light on a project I have been working on since November, 2010, an account of hope and courage, as well as a story of selfless determination to help millions across the globe.
My intentions are not to tease you with sketchy details or to dramatize the significance of the story, but to pique your interest so you will not feel uninformed when the time arrives to reveal all details about this amazing project. You all have been so supportive and encouraging of my writing, and I do not want you to feel short-changed in any way.
Most importantly, you should know that the subject of this story is a true hero, a young person who has made a courageous choice to help you and me, and millions of other people worldwide. It is his prayer that many will benefit from the fruit of his efforts. Indeed, he is a testament of endurance and faith.
In closing, I would like to say that it has been an honor to know this young man, and it is my privilege to convey his story to you.
Have a great weekend, everyone! ~ Tory
By: Tory,
on 1/8/2011
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Photos from Christmas! 
(Conner, Catie, Courtney and Carlie posing for a picture in Santa's lap.)
As the new year progresses, I find myself looking back on 2010 and wondering how it's possible that another twelve months have come and gone so quickly. Where did the time go?
It doesn't take long, however, before visions of the past flood my memory with Graduate School assignments and deadlines, followed by weeks of hot, sweltering summer afternoons of chasing our little ones around the baseball parks. And who in the family will ever forget those first days of Kindergarten for our twins? Ah, this still brings tears to my eyes. 
(Catie enjoyed spending the day w/ me at CWEMC, and I was thrilled she came for a visit.) 
(Poor Santa!)
Whew...now it's easy to see how time has marched on so quickly for our boisterous bunch. Nevertheless, there are several events from 2010 that will forever be in my heart, as these moments have changed my life and helped me become a stronger, better person. 
(Our home during Christmas.)
(My first attempt at making a Paula Deen cheesecake. YUM!)
Shortly after our children had settled in to a new school year, my writing shifted in a direction like never before. The hopes of gaining representation for my young adult novel became ever so close, and I could finally see a light at the end of the query tunnel. So, while working on revisions with an agent in New York, a new, amazing concept entered my head, and without hesitation, I decid
By: Tory,
on 10/17/2010
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Just when I was getting my writing groove on and making significant progress in book #2, WHAM! Something new and beautiful, an epiphany perhaps, took precedence over my WIP and shifted me in a direction like never before. I assure you, this unique and poignant project will consume most of my spare time in order to make it a success for everyone involved. So as my blogging days become sparse, if not absent in the coming weeks, please understand that something amazing is in the works.
Until next time, goodnight everyone! Love, Tory
By: Tory,
on 10/9/2010
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Soon after I embarked on this adventure to become a published author I made two promises to my husband and parents: 1. To set practical goals and not expect too much too soon. 2. Never give up.
So, a few days ago, when each promise was seriously being reconsidered, the words "Revise & Resubmit" entered my vocabulary, as one of the Super Agents with the full of my manuscript asked to see my story again after revisions were made.
At first, the thought of combing over each line in my 400 page novel felt, well, like climbing Mount Everest barefoot. But after realizing this was the closest I'd come to gaining representation for my story, it seemed as if a match had been struck beneath my bum, forcing me to get busy editing EVERY.SINGLE.WORD. And thanks to my amazingly supportive parents for helping me research and contact the perfect freelance editor (Not only is she uberly talented & witty with words, but also knows the ins-and-outs of the publishing industry!) to assist in this process.
So, onward and upward I go, moving one step closer toward representation for book #1. Hopefully, at the end of this journey, my family and all of you will have the opportunity to read this exciting tale of Callie and Scott.
In closing, I'd like to share more pics from another great week with the family! Have a fantastic weekend, everyone! Tory 
Homecoming week at Millry High School. This photo was taken on "tacky/nerd day," and let's just say that Conner felt mortified wearing this tacky outfit & ridiculous hairstyle! 
Catie before the parade. 
Hoping to fill their bags full of candy and beads, Carlie and Conner listened carefully for the parade to begin. 
"Throw me some candy, please!" Court begged! 
It was such a fun week for us all! Go Wildcats!!!
By: Tory,
on 10/2/2010
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Apologies for the lack in blogging lately. It's been one of those busy weeks in which the days have passed too quickly and the weekend has crept upon me.
The remedy I've found for such chaos? A book...a very good book! 
It seems the more tumultuous my life becomes, the more I find comfort in reading or writing, hence the reason I stayed awake 'til midnight this week reading THE HELP by Kathryn Stockett.
One of my dearest friends, Tarah Olewski, loaned THE HELP to me a few weeks back, and now after finishing the page-turner, I understand her motivation for recommending it. Tarah knew I'd appreciate the brazen main characters, Skeeter, Minny, and Aibileen! Oh, just thinking of these characters now makes me want to start all over again. So Tarah, thank you so much for encouraging me to read this beautifully written story. Without a doubt, Stockett's debut novel has stirred every emotion possible, particularly those of true friendship and love for mankind.
Before leaving you today, I'd like to share some photos from another exciting week at the Minus household. 
For me, there's an escape unimaginable in the written word. Just as the renowned Canadian laureate, Margaret Atwood, wrote in her poem, SPELLING, "a word after a word after a word is power." And after witnessing our twins, Carlie and Conner, read their very first book with 100% accuracy, I couldn't agree more with Ms. Atwood. A word after another is power! 
Doing "homework" with her big brother and sisters, Courtney (in the middle chair) entertained us with her three-year-old version of MAX THE CAT. 
No time for sleeping in this morning, Catie and the other cheerleaders travelled south to Bulldog Country for a fun-filled day of cheering for the midget football team!
By: Tory,
on 9/20/2010
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Hi, friends! Just popping in to share some photos from my birthday weekend in Madison, AL. Hope you enjoy!
Just five miles east of our hotel, there was plenty to do at the Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville. Truly an amazing attraction! 
Trae and I spent the majority of Friday evening shopping in The Bridge Street Town Center. This was such a nice place to visit, not only for couples enjoying a date-night, but also for families with young children. Even pop-sensation, Usher, owns a townhouse in this luxurious shopping district. You, too, can own one, but it's going to cost you somewhere around $500,000.00. WHEW!!! 
After buying a few surprises for the kiddos, we settled inside for dinner and a movie at Monaco Pictures. It was really nice spending quality time with Trae, and trying sushi for the first time was simply divine! 
The carousel near the lake was absolutely beautiful! 
Our first experience on a gondola was really exciting. 
Trae and I in front of The Harrison Brother's Hardware Store and Museum in downtown Huntsville. Such a quaint little shop that's virtually unchanged since its opening in 1879. Nostalgic hardware, gifts and local crafts are sold here in Alabama's oldest hardware store. 
By: Tory,
on 9/16/2010
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*Cue whistling and party music*
Yes indeed, I'm one excited lady today! The reason? In less than twenty-four hours, Trae and I will be en route to our weekend getaway (it's my 33rd birthday present) where we plan to rest and relax, do a little sightseeing, and enjoy a dinner & a movie Friday night!
So please check back early next week to see how I celebrated this special day.
Have a great weekend, everyone! Tory
By: Tory,
on 9/7/2010
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Well my friends, after years of travelling to the white sandy beaches of Gulf Shores, AL with an entourage of family and friends by my side, helping me with troublesome umbrella strollers, countless suitcases, bulging diaper bags, etc..., I was brave enough to "go it alone" this past weekend and drive my children to the beautiful "oil-free" coastline for a few days of fun in the sun.
This wasn't a planned vacation for me and the kiddos. You see, just before dawn broke on Sunday morning, I stirred from a peaceful night's rest to the sound of my husband getting ready in the master bath nearby. After being out of commission from work for three days due to a vicious stomach virus, Trae was anxious to return to his hay bailing responsibilities in Sumter County. Apparently, two-hundred bails worth of hay on the ground was plenty incentive to get Trae showered, dressed, and out the front door within a matter of minutes.
So, with the house completely silent, I flipped on the table lamp in our bedroom and began to ponder how the kids and I would spend the remainder of our holiday weekend in Millry. There was plenty for me to do at home: laundry (ew!), finish painting the trim work in our upstairs hallway (double ew!), or I could remove the wilted summer plants from our flower beds (ew, ew, ew!). Hmmm... Each chore seemed extremely productive, but also sounded exactly as A DREADFUL CHORE!!!! And then I asked myself, "Isn't Labor Day intended to be a day of rest and relaxation, surrounded by those you love immensely (or completely alone if you enjoy solidarity)?" The wheels began to turn inside my head, contemplating the perfect day of relaxation for our family.
A few hours later, after Catie and Conner arrived home from a sleepover at their cousin's, the first words that rolled from Catie's lips, "Um, Mom? Can we please spend the night at the beach?" As you can see in the images above, it didn't take much for Catie to convince me to pack our bags, throw some snacks and drinks in a cooler, and make last-minute reservations for our over-night stay in Gulf Shores. And I must admit, being spontaneous with these youngsters felt absolutely INCREDIBLE!
By: Tory,
on 8/30/2010
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Conner was nothing but smiles during the football game at Wildcat Hill! 
Catie's favorite cheer: Our team is D-Y-N-A-M-I-T-E!
Carlie loved watching her big sister cheer for the Wildcats!
Carlie, Courtney, Catie, and friends from school giving each other manicures and pedicures!
After spending the majority of Saturday afternoon watching Catie cheer at Britton Field and then back home to a house full of rambunctious youngsters, I had every intention of mopping floors today and catching up on some much needed laundry. Unfortunately, due to a vicious stomach virus that crept into our safehaven, little Carlie is home from school with a terrible tummy ache.
When Carlie's symptoms began yesterday afternoon, I felt certain her loss of appetite and sudden fatigue was a result of intense play with her big sister and friends from school. But when I heard her feet scurry across the upstairs bathroom in our home, I knew it was something more. Throughout most of the night, Trae and I rotated shifts of being nurse-made to little Carlie, changing her sheets after an accident occurred and refilling her water cup in order to prevent dehydration. WHEW! This definitely brought back memories from years ago when the twins were infants. To this day, I'm still not sure how we survived those first months of sleepless nights and around the clock feedings.
With less than a few hours of sleep, we rolled out of the bed this morning feeling as if a freight train had struck us during the middle of the night, while Carlie awoke in the best of spirits. She is definitely showing signs of improvement, cracking jokes with Courtney and keeping a birds-eye-view on her little sister as she put together a Dora puzzle on the floor nearby.
So as I look back on the past twenty-four hours with Carlie, I realize that even though my laundry pile has tripled in size, I'm so thankful for being able to care for my little munchkin.
Hopefully, if your Monday has kicked off to a crappy start, this post helps you see that it's best to find the good in times of distress than to dwell on the misfortune in our day! Happy Monday, everyone! Tory
Oh, one last thing before I go! Still no rejection emails from Dear Super Agents:) YEAH
By: Tory,
on 8/19/2010
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Okay, friends! Quick update: Still no word from the SUPER agents who have requested the complete manuscript and partial for Book #1. As the old saying goes, "No news is good news!" so their lack in response gives me great hope they are seriously considering my project.
Now, those of you who know me best, understand why these requests could not have come at a better time, so please keep me and my family in your prayers! I assure you, regardless the outcome I WILL continue pushing forward with a smile across my face. You see, the words "give-up" and "throw in the towel" simply have no meaning in my vocabulary.
Also, two wonderful blogger friends of mine, Lindsay Currie and Julie Loden, are biting nails just as I as they anxiously wait for a response from the three agents who have their co-authored YA novel, HARMONY. I encourage you to follow their blogs Tiptoe Kisses , Julie Loden. I just know something GRAND is coming down the pike for this remarkable duo!
Have a great evening, everyone! Tory
By: Tory,
on 8/14/2010
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After an adventurous (and a bit stressful) week of shuttling the older children to and from school, helping w/ homework, entertaining Courtney at home, cooking, cleaning, yadda, yadda, yadda, I have some pretty exciting news to share with all of you.
Over the past few days, I've been extremely busy preparing email submissions for my first young adult novel because TWO remarkable agents have taken interest in the concept and have requested the full of my manuscript! *squeals loudly and does a happy dance in the kitchen* This now brings the total of requests to 5 partials, 4 fulls, and plenty of rejections and no responses in between. But as the old saying goes, "It only takes one YES to become a published author."
Take the story of Theodore Geisel for example (used from Adventures in Agentland). Theodore had written a picture book manuscript called THE HOUSE ON MULBURRY STREET. He shopped it around. He sent it to twenty-two editors and, after that twenty-second rejection, Theodore decided he would go home, shred his manuscript, and give up his dream.
On the way home, he ran into an old friend of his, who had become an editor. His editor friend convinced him to let him see his manuscript. The editor changed the name of the book to THE CAT IN THE HAT, and Dr. Seuss was born.
Once again, thanks for all your support! In more ways than one, your kind words and encouragement have kept me chasing the dream of becoming a published author. I promise to update as soon as I hear from either agent. Have a great weekend, everyone! Tory
By: Tory,
on 8/9/2010
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The alarm clock sounded at precisely 6:15 this morning, and as I glanced around our dim-lit bedroom, I couldn't believe a new school year was only an hour away. I slid from the covers and slipped on my fuzzy pink houseshoes, then, tiptoed softly past the childrens' bedrooms where their snoring and heavy breathing gave assurance the alarm clock had stirred only me. As I sluggishly made my way down the staircase, the childrens' portraits cascading down the walls somehow grabbed my attention.
Suddenly, I was struck by the fact that these youngsters had grown entirely too fast - Catie, now a 4th grader at Millry Elementary; Carlie and Conner in Kindergarten; Courtney, becoming more and more independent each day. Jeez! I was in desperate need of a rewind button.
After choking back the tears, I collected my thoughts and said a quick prayer asking God to watch over these precious children and protect them as they entered this new chapter in their lives.
Moments later, with a soft rustling noise over my shoulder, I caught a glimpse of Courtney Erin peeking around the doorframe of her bedroom with a somber expression across her face. In that moment, I knew she felt it too. She felt the same empty nest feeling that burned at my core. Yet after a quick wink and a smile, I managed to get one of the sweetest grins ever from my little caboose!
Catie, Courtney, Conner, & Carlie - dressed for the BIG day at Millry Elementary!
Upon arrival at Wildcat Hill, Carlie and Conner braced themselves in the backseat of our SUV as Courtney's tearful whimper turned into a shrilling wail. The twins stared at one another, not sure who should open the door, when Catie leaned from the front and said to her baby sister, "Court, Court, it's okay to say goodbye!"
Now, those of you who know Catie Minus, know that she's one of the most compassionate nine-year-olds around. And thank God she spoke up when she did because the tardy bell was only minutes away, and I couldn't bare the thought of my kids being late for the very first day of school...*ahem* - We live just .3 miles from campus, so there really is no excuse!
Whew! Just in time, and thankfully, no tears shed on the "Welcome" mat outside Mrs. Becton's classroom! Carlie Elaine was so excited to see her friends
By: Tory,
on 8/7/2010
Blog: Head in the Clouds (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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Little Benjamin Edward Massey made his "grand" entrance on August 5th, 2010 weighing in at 8 pounds 3 ounces and 22 inches long. He and Mommy are doing fabulous and are scheduled for patient discharge this afternoon.
Dana and I posing for a few pictures pre-delivery. She amazed me by her calmness and ability to go without pain meds during some very intense contractions.
Other than Catie, Benjamin is the most pleasant newborn I've ever held! Spending more than thirty minutes with Benjamin and his proud family, I never once heard him whimper. And boy does he have some really BIG feet and hands; his daddy sees great football potential, I'm sure!
Catie was so happy to finally get her hands on Benjamin. She was mesmerized by his sweet face, and of course, already trying to play matchmaker!
Though I have plenty experience with newborns, it took a few seconds to position Benjamin comfortably in my arms. He is such a blessing, and I can't wait to watch him grow & become a young man. 
Aunt "TaTa" getting her share of kisses from baby Benjamin. As always, Tarah entertained all of us in the waiting room with her hilarious story of passing out in the delivery room during her niece's birth. Seriously, there was not a dry eye in the room! 
Congratulations, Dana & Chris, and big brother, Dixon!
By: Tory,
on 8/5/2010
Blog: Head in the Clouds (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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Today is the wonderful day that my best friend, Dana Massey, has anticipated for the past thirty-nine weeks. SHE'S HAVING A BABY, and I can't wait to meet the little fellow. So, in effort to make it to Mobile Infirmary before Benjamin Edward arrives, I must pull myself away from this computer and get my kiddos off to Spot for Tots Daycare.
Stay tuned for pictures and a recap of this sure-to-be exciting day!:)
By: Tory,
on 7/24/2010
Blog: Head in the Clouds (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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I must thank Melissa - From my somewhat serious mind for passing along an award called "Seven Colors". Thanks so much Melissa!!
This award requires the recipient to share at least seven things that make them happy.
Just seven, Melissa? Okay! This should be a piece of cake. After all, the glass is always half full in my opinion!
1. My religion makes me happy! I try to live each day according to God's word, and I rely heavily on his comfort and mercy to get me through the uncertainties in life. In times of discouragement, I am reminded that God is the Author of life who keeps his promises! Below is a picture of Millry Baptist Church, the place my family attends bible study and worship service.
2. My family! Even as a little girl, the idea of having a large family never frightened me. From my earliest memories, I recall prancing around my parent's home pushing a baby stroller and even sleeping with a dozen Cabbage Patch babies next to me each night. Perhaps this was the result of my father being the youngest of six, or my mother being the baby of twelve. Hmmm...I'm still not sure, but I know I enjoyed hearing stories of their "lively" childhood.
Soon, after Trae and I were married, I quickly realized that society had pulled away from large families. In fact, having more than two or three children was ridiculed by many. But this didn't discourage me from wanting a house full of kiddos. After experiencing a perfect pregnancy and delivery with our firstborn, Catie, I never expected to feel so much love and compassion toward another human being. But this little bundle of joy simply captivated my heart! She was perfect in every way.
Four challenging years later, we were blessed with fraternal twins, Carlie and Conner. Though we lost a lot of sleep and our water bill basically tripled overnight, these "twinkies" certainly made us believe in miracles! But the fun didn't end there. SURPRISE! Courtney Erin joined our motley crew just three days after the twins celebrated their second birthday, and she was welcomed home by the sweetest, most fun-loving children in the world. So, yes! My large family makes me EXTREMELY HAPPY!:) 
3. Nature! I absolutely love spending time outdoors in God's world. Each day I'm amazed at the beauty that surrounds our home in south Alabama. Just a few miles from our home is one of the best fishing holes in Washington County, The Millry State Lake. From the banks of this 90 acre lake, Courtney and I enjoy watching the sun set above the towering pine trees. It truly is a magnificent place to spend a summer afternoon!
1 Comments on Seven Colors!, last added: 7/27/2010
Beautiful pics. Was thinking about/praying for you. We had a surprise visit from my daughter, so we got to have all three grandkids for Easter. Wonderful day.
Love the new pictures of you and the kids! I hope you had a great Easter!
What a beautiful sweet family.