I Miss These Faces...

This Kid is Too Cute...I Can't Take It!

Wash Your Hands Please!

Many of you may know that I am on the cusp of being obsessive complusive when it comes to "washing of the hands". I am ridiculous about it and I always keep a bottle of lotion handy at work or at home because my hands get pretty dry due to the excessive washing. I'm just a freak about clean hands. I don't know why...I just am.

But nothing makes me want to throw up more than sitting in a bathroom stall and listening to someone exit their stall, walk to the counter, and then open the door to leave. Sounds fairly normal to the average reader, but they seem to have missed a VERY IMPORTANT step in the process. TURN THE WATER ON, GET SOME SOAP and WASH YOUR HANDS!!! It takes less than a minute of your time to get sanitized my friend. And saves us all the grossness of coming in contact with your disgusting germs!

There was a culprit in the women's bathroom at work who seems to have overlooked this very vital procedure today. Don't know who it is...and honestly, don't really want to know who it was, because I'm afraid I could never look at her the same.

Anybody else out there that feels the same as I do??? Please let me know!!

St. Louis Cardinals - Sweet Victory!

It was a tense evening at John and Max's place as we watched the 7th game of the NLCS last night. We were having "family time" (minus one of our family members, Karla - who by the way is more crazy about the St. Louis Cardinals than anyone I know). The boys aren't into baseball that much, but they sacrificed an evening to support my addiction to Cardinal baseball (at least during the playoffs - cause we don't get to see much of the regular season on TV in these parts)...and they even cheered for our sweet boys.

To be honest, our boys shocked me last night. Suppan was blowing me away with his pitching, but I was starting to get frustrated when we couldn't get any runs in. And stupid Chavez with his ridiculous back-breaking catch over the wall to rob us of 2 runs...jerk! But that didn't stop my boys from comin back in the 9th. Oh yeah...Molina came through and smacked one over the wall!! It was sweet!
But I think the best part of the whole night was the bottom of the 9th, bases loaded, and stinkin Beltran at the plate with 2 outs. (Side note - Beltran has been a thorn in our side the whole series with his homers and good hits. "Beltran" was Karla's new swear word for the week! She cracks me up!) Anyways, he's at 0-2 and I decide to stand up in the middle of the living room, like one would in a stadium...come on now, you gotta support and cheer! Max and John O thought I was ridiculous, but I didn't care. I stood and watched that sweet pitch soar into home plate, Beltran doesn't swing and the umpire threw his fist out and yelled strike!!! Immediate screaming and jumping around. It was amazing and unbelievable!!

So the Cards are headed to the World Series against Detroit and I almost cringe to think it may be another series like the one with the Red Sox in 2004. Complete humiliation. BUT! You never know with these guys - they are amazing and they may take it all this year! They better:) Regardless, I still love em!

Here he is...

Carter John Mitchell :)

I'm An Aunt!!!

Carter John Mitchell was born around 3:20pm (central time) today. Whew hew - it's a boy and I was right!! Not that it is important:) The little cutie weighed 8 lbs. 10 oz. and has lots of light brown/blonde hair. Mom sent me a text picture and he is a doll! Our little bundle of joy:) Melissa and Matt are both doing well...just really tired. Sounds like he is a pretty happy little boy. He cried once when he was first born, but since then all he does is smile. What a dream!! I'll be sure to post pictures if and when I ever get them!! Til then...

Prolonged Absence

WHAT IN THE WORLD???
My apologies for my blog absence this past week or so. I have no idea what happened or why my blog kept reading "not found". All I know is that I'm glad it's not lost for good!

Life has been a roller coaster lately. Turned 26 last Saturday. On the downhill slope of my 20s - 30 here I come! Actually, I'm enjoying my 20s - more so the latter half of them. First half was a little rocky. Thankful to be past all that!

Don't have a ton to write about this morning...still waking up. Just wanted to let you all know that I'm alive! :)

Quick Trip Home

Wednesday morning - I get the call that mom and dad are on their way up to Galesburg to be with grandma. She's not doing well.

Wednesday afternoon - I get the call that grandma passed away. Funeral will be on Saturday in Monmouth, IL. Max and I make plans to head home for an unexpected trip, realizing we will be traveling the same route the next weekend for a wedding. Worth it though to be with family and there for my dad.

Friday at noon - We head off for the 6.5 hour trip home which took nearly 7 hours thanks to the slow trucker in front of us on Route 4. Lots of talking and laughing and we're finally home. I go crazy in the car when I see the Broadway sign. It's been 5 months since I been home. I can't take it...it overwhelms me to the point where I go through the same ritual of rolling down my windows on the exit just to smell the Quincy air. Most would think I'm crazy, but I've done it nearly every trip home I've ever taken. This time was a little more exciting because I had my honey sitting next to me in the car. I made him roll his window down too and take a wiff - he just gave me the look like I was completely insane. But, it smelled great! We headed straight to my dad's workplace and surprised him. Later we met up with mom and the rest of the family at the KofCs. We met John and Sha at the YMCA for their volleyball game and watched them crush the other team 3-0. I could tell John had been working out:)

Saturday 7am - We left for the funeral. Max and I in front. John and Sha in the back seat, dressed and not quite awake. We head to good ole Monmouth where we have many childhood memories there. I rope Shawna into singing "In the Garden" with me for the service - she was awesome! I think the boys had heard enough of my version of "Eagles Wings". Thanks Loretta for the recording...you're amazing!

Saturday 10am - Visitation and funeral. Family comes. Hugs. Church family comes. Hugs. Surprised so many friends made the drive. We are blessed. Looked at the flowers sent. Bouquet from Dave Stone - shocked. Beautiful plant from my Elementary Team at Southeast - amazed, but not surprised because they are incredible. Gorgeous mum from Kev and Ret - beautiful. Reminded once again - we are blessed. Matt and Melissa couldn't be there because of work and the new baby about to arrive. Sad about that. Max stepped in to be a pall bearer. Thankful for him. Funeral service was short and small. Crazy how you can live a long life of 87 years and it can be summed up in a 20 minute service. Makes you think about what kind of impact you are making in this world and what people will say about you when you are gone. What kind of legacy am I leaving?

Saturday afternoon - Back in Quincy after the services and lunch. Head to the Crossing for Saturday evening service. Good to see John, Sha, Ret and Neal on stage leading worship. Dinner afterwards at Lakeview Restaurant. Great conversation with Loretta about life and God's amazing story for our lives. Incredible fried chicken salad - needs to be labeled "World Famous". Take the tour of John and Sha's remodeled home. Wish I had their creativity. Head to bed.

Sunday morning - Services at MPCC. Good to be home and see familiar faces. Embarassed like no other in Mike's Sunday School class. He's my biggest fan...just trying to get me married! Thanks for your help Mr. Nobis:) Pretty sure my face and Max's face were a nice shade of red for all to see. Lots of hugs and brief "catch up" conversations. Quick lunch at Fazoli's. Turn around to see Pam and Yvonne in line right behind me. Wow! God is cool like that.

Sunday 2pm - Head back to Louisville...yippee! This time trip takes 6 hours and 15 minutes...much better! More laughing, talking, coke-drinking, belching to pass the time away. Good fun had by all! Days left til we make the trip again - 2! Decision to fly this time around - definite!

He's Back!!

Well, I have successfully made it back from South Carolina with my boyfriend and all my luggage! We had a wonderful time together, although it went way too fast. Wednesday evening, I met him at his apartment, dressed and ready for the banquet we were attending. He opened the door and both of our faces lit up. He was dressed in his fancy pants army suit and looking mighty handsome. We went to the event and I met some pretty important people, ate some good food, got our picture taken and met a girl with the same dress on as me. To make matters even more awkward, we sat at the same table...how special!! I felt like I was at prom:)

Thursday, I watched movies all day while he was in class and planned a special dinner for him...
Friday, I met him for graduation and watched proudly as he walked across the stage to receive his special award. He won the "Distinguished Honor Graduate" award - basically, he was named the valedictorian of his class. To make it even more special, he was the youngest in his class!! He received special recognition during the ceremony and also received two special coins from top ranking officers...one was a 2-star general, the Chief of Chaplains!! Wow!! I was introduced to this incredible man and many more that day. Very proud of my man:)

He'll be back in Louisville on Wednesday of this week and it will be good to finally have him back!! I'll post some pics when he emails them to me!

Friends...

There are seasonal friends and then there are friends that just stick with ya for life. You may not get to talk to them everyday, but you know without a shadow of a doubt that you could pick up right where you left off. They are friends that always have a smile for you and an encouraging word. They say "I love you" and "I miss you"...and they mean it. They have been the ones that have known you your whole life or at least a good chunk of it. They've seen your ups and downs, your shining moments and unfortunately your embarassing moments. But they don't think any less of you! They are friends that you can be silly with and with the same breath share your struggles with. They are friends who will pray for you...regardless of whether you ask them to or not. They are real.

I've been blessed in my life with handfuls of these wonderful people. I don't call them just friends, I call them my family. I wouldn't be where I am today without them. Today, I thank God for each one of you. I love you.

Countdown...

2 weeks from today...

14 days in counting...
336 hours...
20,160 minutes...
1,209,600 seconds...
and he'll be all mine!!

My Honey and Me

2 months apart...long enough for me. I decided it was time to see him and nothin was stoppin me! With my co-pilot, Dotty, in the front seat, we trucked over 500 miles to see this handsome face. And boy it was worth it! I missed that sweet guy more than you can imagine.

It was a whirlwind trip and he was in training most of the time, but we got to spend the evenings together which was fine with me. I had the privilege of meeting some of his platoon members over dinner and the next day, he surprised Dotty and I with a trip to the Spa. We had full body massages and it was a dream. (major points!) The second evening, he went all out and planned a romantic dinner for the two of us. He spent weeks getting this whole event ready...needless to say, I was impressed. Good cook too!

It was a sad goodbye as always. But we are down to 26 more days until I go pick him up and bring him home for good. Time...can you fly by a little faster?

Camp Memories...

Friends...
To get a glimpse of my summer at camp, you must go visit my friend, Karla's blog. It's her Top 20 Countdown of camp memories. Check it out!
www.wereofftoseeklo.blogspot.com
You may not understand it all...but I think it is stinkin funny!

Back to Life...Back to Reality

Rolled over this morning when the alarm went off and moaned a bit.
Couldn't decide what to wear because for the last 3 weeks my wardrobe has been planned out for me...camp t-shirts, shorts and flip flops.
Drove in to the church parking lot, trying to remember what it was like to work in an office for 8 hours.
So weird!
Reality says...welcome back!
I say...what a joy.

Still Alive and Kickin...

I haven't dropped off the face of the earth...just dropped off the face of the blogging world for a bit. Life's been a little hectic with camp the past couple weeks. We've had little shugs from the 1st grade to the 5th grade out at Country Lake Christian Retreat and having a good time. It's been a little stressful at times, I'll admit...but the overall joy of being at camp wins out every time. I work with an incredible staff team and well...it's just fun!

I am going to see Max in a couple weeks!! My friend Dotty and I are heading down to SC to hang out with him briefly for a couple days. Getting in a little QT with him so I can make it another month without him. Can't wait for September when our lives can go back to normal again.

Life is good. Can't complain. Looking forward to a day off after camp is finished! See ya on the flip side my friends...

NACC

Had no idea that I would see so many people I knew at the North American Christian Convention! People from Central and some from Warrensburg were there and it was really good to see them and catch up. It sounds like my good ole CCCB is doing some pretty exciting things. New building, new president, new all sorts of stuff. Really proud of them! Hope to see more people tonight!

When you think you have tomorrow...

Tragedy. Devastation. Sadness.
Joy. Excitement. Long-awaited anticipation.
One day.

How can all these emotions happen in one 24 hour period? That is the question along with many others that are still plaguing my mind and heart today. Yesterday afternoon, one of our team members called us all together and told us that one of our volunteers who had been pregnant with twins went in to the ER the night before with chest pains. The doctors found out that she had a disected aorta (which basically meant that a wall in heart was torn). They thought it best for all parties involved that they go ahead and take the babies which were due in 7 weeks anyways. With it being twins, they were expecting them early, so this wasn't an uncommon thing. Sometime in the middle of the night, Matthew Logan and Sydney Elizabeth were born and although unstable are relatively healthy at this point in time.

Around noon, the mother began complaining of hot flashes to the nurse that was in the room and within moments before they could do anything, she passed away. She was able to see the babies that she had been waiting for...sadly though, she will never be able to see their first steps, take them to their first day of school, see them graduate or go off to college. She was young, maybe a couple years older than myself. She was a kindergarten teacher and her love for kids was inspiring. She and her husband were incredible volunteers in our ministry and served alongside one another faithfully. She was one of my worship leaders and her presence on stage and in our lives will be missed. She was a sweet person and my heart breaks for this young family.

It breaks for...
The husband who has experienced the greatest joy in life and the greatest sorrow all at the same time.
The tough road that lies ahead for him and for their families.
The babies who will never get to hear their momma's voice or feel her touch.

But one thing is for sure...they will grow up knowing how much she loved them, because their daddy will tell them all the time. They will know that mommy loves them, daddy loves them and most importantly that Jesus loves them.

Please lift this family up in prayer.
Lawrence and Carrie Godbey
Logan and Sydney

Ahh...the Beaches of Lake Michigan

Heading out on vacation this week to a delightful beach house on Lake Michigan. My buddy Steve has some family connections, so next week you won't catch me in the office. If you need to get ahold of me...try my cell phone....cause I will be laying out on the beach, soaking up the sun!!! :) Please don't hate me my friends! This is the first REAL vacation I have been on since our lovely family vacations as a kid. So technically, it is my first "grown-up" vacation...I would say it's about time!
Have a great week everybody!!

Max is Gone!

Well, everybody...
My boy is gone for the summer. Boo hoo:( I took him to Lexington Saturday morning and he is now in full swing at his Officer Basic Course in Ft. Jackson, South Carolina. I've started the countdown for his return. 87 days left!
I know military families do this all the time and for much longer periods of time for that matter. Guess it is just going to take some getting used to. I've said goodbye to him before. We were apart for 3 weeks when we first started dating and normally don't get more than a few days to be together anyways during the week. But for some reason, this time is harder. I miss him more than I've ever missed him before and want him to come back right now. Oh I know I'll be okay. I'll toughen up, but I'm not going to forget the fact that I miss him. I'll cry...numerous times. I'll laugh and wish he were there laughing with me. I'll go places and wish he were there with me. But I'll know that on September 8th or shortly after, I'll get to see him and give him a big hug! Until then...

Two BIG Things!

I know after the job announcement, how could anything be BIG??

1st thing...
For an entire year, I have been avoiding a certain restaurant. Don't ask me why, because I really don't know. For years, people have raved about this place and swear it is the best food they've ever eaten. Now, keep in mind that they were mostly men. Yes, I'm talking about the infamous place called "Skyline Chili". Maybe you've tried it, maybe you are like me and have been avoiding it. I must say, that it was semi-tasty. The main thing was...I didn't throw up. I tried a bite of Steve's 3-way and that was about all I could take. I did get my own cheese-coney and well, it wasn't anything that I will crave in future days to come, but I could eat another if I had to. I settled for the Southwest Chicken Wrap. 1 thumb up!

2nd thing...

Guess who finally got their IPOD Nano in the mail yesterday??? If you guessed me, then YOU ARE CORRECT!! The little beauty was in my office mailbox when I got back from lunch and it truly made me smile. I don't know what to do with it yet...but that's where my buddy Nevan comes into play. Actually, he deserves some major props for it finally arriving in the first place. Neville - thank you!

The Wait is FINALLY Over!!

The good news is....I GOT THE JOB!!!
The bad new is...oh wait, there is no bad news!!!

I was offered the Worship/Music Ministry Assistant Position for the Elementary Ministries Team this afternoon at 3:30pm. Nothing will be official until the HR Department takes care of the details, but it is enough for me to FINALLY tell the world about my big news! I said everyone would know when I knew!

I have waited long enough for the words I heard today. I've gone over the possibilities in my mind if I didn't get the job, if I did get the job...and so on. It's been something I've wanted and prayed over for a long time. This job will be meshing two of my greatest passions. Music and Children. For me, this was a job that only existed in my dreams a couple years ago. I remember sitting at West Central Christian Service Camp and talking with my friend, Dotty Harney. We were discussing ministry struggles and in the midst of our conversations, she simply said, "Sara, you need to be a large church where you can specifically do music for kids." I thought to myself that would never happen. But through some tough seasons the past couple of years... and simply by the Hand of God, He has brought me to Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, KY where I will now be taking on the role of Worship/Music Ministry Assistant for Elementary Ministries.

I just have to sit back for a moment and say WOW God...WOW!

To look back over the course of my life the last 3 years is amazing. I see how He uprooted me from my ministry in Warrensburg with my dad having a stroke and grandpa dying, and I see Him showing me that He really wanted me in ministry. He took me through some ugly valleys to get there, but I think He gave me a taste of what life would be like if I had chosen to disobey His calling when I moved home. I mean who really wants to be a substitute teacher for the rest of their life?? Well, maybe some do, but I certainly do NOT! Those few months were wretched, but God taught me alot through those difficult times.

To be honest though, those 9 months in Quincy had some tremendous benefits. I got to spend more time with my family, and I got to hang out with John and Shawna a ton. And getting the opportunity to know my then "future sister-in-law" was well worth it. I also made some incredible friends at FUEL. I miss them all very much.

Getting older has its benefits. You do get wiser. I think it is mainly because you can look back on your life and your mistakes and see what an idiot you were at times, but more than that...you can see God's grace shining through each mistake. You learn to trust Him more and more because He proves Himself over and over. He takes your "oops" moments, heals your wounds and then fixes you up to go on and do some great things. He works through it all. I am so blessed to have a God who loves me this much. Who can take all my bad decisions and still use me in ways I never thought possible to bring glory to His name and to bring others to know Christ a little bit better.

Who am I God...that you should be mindful of me?...that you would care for me?...that you would love me? All I can say is Thank you God...thank you. And thank you all for your prayers and encouragement!

YEAH GOD!

Special Delivery!

Guess what folks! I just got myself a new computer flat screen monitor for my office. Didn't ask for it...didn't know about it until 5 minutes ago...but yet, here it is!
It's very nice.
It's black.
It's square.
It's flat.
It takes up alot less space on my desk.
Funny how these things happen two weeks before the end of my internship. Well, at least I have two weeks to enjoy this beautiful thing. How fortunate for the next intern. If they only knew the piece I started out with...they would be forever grateful! :)
Thanks to our I.T. guys and gals!

Worries...

"Give all your worries to him, because he cares for you."

1 Peter 5:7

It's a verse that is on repeat in my mind lately. With two weeks left in the internship, I still don't have a job come May 29th. Stresses me out a bit, I'll be honest. The waiting is what kills me. I'm completely out of control. But that just means HE is completely in control.

So you ask...what are you stressing about? Well, I'm a worry-wort and that's what I do. Is it right? No. Is it a sin to worry? Yes. Should I stop? Yes. Will HE take care of me and my worries? Yes. Do I trust Him? ....Yes. That's the kicker my friends....trusting Him. I've done it for 25 years, I think I can do it for at least another week until I hear an answer.

The Wedding of the Century!

Suppose it is my turn to post about the wedding weekend. Loretta's already posted two times and other friends are posting...and I'm family for goodness sake!! Better get on it eh? I haven't posted yet for the simple fact that I'm speechless. I don't know if words can really describe all that went on this weekend. Indescribable. Amazing really. Breath-taking. Beautiful. Holy and pure. Worship. WOW! I would say the ceremony was like nothing I have ever experienced before. Yes, the spotlight and live-camera feed as I'm coming down the aisle made me feel like I was in Hollywood, but that's not the stuff I'm talking about. I'm talking about the touches of God, HIS fingerprints that were EVERYWHERE!

From moments alone in the bride's room, circled around Shawna praying to a "toast of love" given by the bride's father...HE was all over the place. I have seen God at work in this relationship for quite some time. I still remember the night at camp when Shawna pulled John aside and they sat in the canteen area and talked and she had the guts to tell him she liked him. That girl has more courage than I will ever have - he was even dating someone at the time. But she knew...she knew and pursued (well, more or less waited for John to wise up) and the rest is history!

Top 10 Favorite Moments from the weekend:

10. Feeling like it was Christmas at the rehearsal dinner when Sha gave us the bridesmaids gifts! (pink sunglasses - hot stuff!)

9. The rehearsal that felt like a family reunion. Erin, Laura, Ricki, Jenny, Tyler, Jon, Jessica, Becca, Keith, Matt, Gil & Ang...family...they just kept coming through the door and I couldn't get to everyone fast enough.

8. Goofy pics with the girls!

7. Loretta's heart-warming, "make you want to cry" speech to us girls before the wedding. Oh wait, I did cry!

6. Teaching Max all the names of the Hollensteiner clan and then watching him score major points with the family when he remembered all their names and could pick them out of a crowd (proud of you babe)!

5. Dancing with my brother Matt towards the end of the night...most everyone was gone and I let loose!

4. Watching and listening to Loretta scream and just about loose it as Shawna's big moment arrived when she walked down the aisle. Then, of course, watching Sha, in all her beauty, slowly walk down the aisle with the sea of people rising behind her...breath-taking!

3. As Loretta put it...the circle of pink tulle surrounding Sha before the ceremony...praying for the future of the couple.

2. Taking a glimpse at the screen and seeing John's face completely covered in tears of sheer joy. Nothing compares. I was so happy for the both of them!

1. I say nothing compares to the last one...maybe this one is in its own category. Funniest moment for me was the "Dance Off" between John and my uncle Bruce. Holy Cow - HILARIOUS! Max has the whole thing recorded on his camera and I still laugh hysterically whenever I watch it. Looks like it is a tradition now - watch out world!

Many moments are still incredible and I will remember them always. Thanks for such a special weekend! :)

The Long Awaited Weekend

Polka dots, pink dresses, chocolate brown suits, truffles, chocolate fountains, music, dancing, candles, pictures, presents, laughter and tears...

It's what we've all been anticipating for quite some time now. It's been over a year of planning and getting things prepared. Trips to bridal shops, dresses being made, suits being bought, appointments with caterers,

long nights of stuffing envelopes,

tiling floors...and ceilings, painting walls, fixing things...

every little detail important

every moment irreplacable

every memory embedded

Such anticipation and it will be here very very soon!

The wedding...the union of this incredible couple.

Some saw it long before others,

but I think we can all agree that this is a match made in Heaven!

I would say that in 4 days it will all be over...but no...

the best is yet to come!

Corrections...

It was brought to my attention (by someone very special to me) that I've made a couple errors in my recent blogs entries. So please allow me to correct myself...

In Blog entry entitled "The Guy"...
- Max is getting his M Div. NOT his MA. This is a HUGE mistake on my part. My apologies dear!

In Blog entry entitled "Finally"...
-It was pointed out that "finger-jausting" is actually spelled "finger-jousting". Emphasis being that I mispelled it with an A instead of an O. My bad! Never claimed to have won any spelling bee championships. Actually if you want to get personal for a moment. I did make it to the Baldwin North Spelling Bee Competition, but failed to spell "tenderloin" correctly. Instead, in the first or second round I spelled it "tenderlion". At that moment, all you could hear were the moans and sighs of my 6th grade class as I walked off the stage in utter embarrassment and shame. But I have NEVER mispelled the word tenderloin since then!

Honey...thank you for bringing these important mishaps to my attention...and for helping me recall one of the most horrific events that happened in my childhood years! You're the best!! :)
(by the way sweetie...I'm just messing with ya! You knew it was coming!)

12 hours of driving and worth the trip

Made a quick trip home this weekend for Easter. We didn't have Elementary Services at SECC, so I took advantage and hit and the road for home. Got in Friday afternoon, just in time for a snip n' clip at InSPArations with my favorite stylist - Shawna Lynn! She's a styling genius:) Made a quick zip over to MPCC for the Good Friday service (a little late, so I sat by myself, but it was probably for the best - no distractions). It was a good service, the choir singing, the acapella ensembles, the communion, the candles...solemn and beautiful. Later that evening, got to watch John's v-ball team destroy their opponent, hang out with my Fuel pals at TCBY, then when John, Sha and I were about to fall asleep in their living room, we hear Neal's mobile pull up in front of their house. An hour later...we go home!

Saturday, Neal and I spent some quality time together...recording and perfecting...recording and perfecting. But the song is finished and we were pleased. More importantly the bride and groom were pleased! And we can check it off the list of things to do! Saturday evening was spent at the Crossing with mom and pop and then Pam and Yvonne joined our family for dinner at Lakeview (a local delight). Had myself the BEST fried chicken salad this side of the Mississippi (that sounds hickish and silly, but I like it). Pam and Ret can attest to this - we've shared many a lunch over fried chicken salads and iced tea. Yummy!

Sunday was delightful...of course being a wonderful and beautiful Easter morning. Didn't have to wake up at the crack of dawn this year and enjoyed going to the 2nd service at MPCC with family. It was a beautiful time of worship. Special music rocked!! The choir sang and gave me goose bumps and the men's ensemble amazed me with their power-house voices! What a celebration! Off to Grandma's house for the egg hunt and mounds of delicious food! Family is all doing well - love em to pieces! Lots of wedding talk with 3 other cousins besides John getting married within the next year or so. Trying not to catch the fever:)

Great weekend, but pretty pooped out. Gotta rest up...wedding weekend in 18 days!!

P.S. Praise the Lord though that the bridesmaid dresses are nearing completion and look smashing! The bride and the MOTB can rest knowing all will be well!

Finally...

I've made it back from the beautiful beaches of Florida with a nice tan and a nice chest cold....how pleasant! Bible and Beach '06 was pretty great I must admit. High schoolers are way different from Elementary kiddos that is for sure. Wish I had pics to show...Panama City was gorgeous and the sunsets were amazing.

For all you "non-registered" blog users...
You may now post a comment on my blog. (a.k.a. mom) :)
I've finally changed the settings to allow anonymous comments. Just make sure to sign your name to the comment!

By the way - my main squeeze was the "finger-jausting" champion at Bible and Beach this year (similar to arm wrestling). I'm so proud of him (and his strong arms that kicked everyone's behind-including mine)! Way to go Max:)

The Guy

So I'm breaking the "Blog Silence" with this post. It was going to happen sooner or later, but I thought I would wait a few weeks before I mentioned anything. Everybody...this is Max! Some of you have heard about him...some of you haven't. Some of you have seen him...now all of you have seen him. :) We've been dating for a few weeks now and I think he's pretty incredible. He is currently pursuing his MA at Cincinnati Christian University (preaching/ministry) and is also a Chaplain with the Army National Guard. Met here at Southeast and have been friends since the Fall. Something sparked between us at a Superbowl Party and it's been a surprising and exciting journey ever since. He caught me off guard when he asked me out. I wasn't real sure about the whole thing, but boy am I glad that I said yes! Wow God...Thank YOU!!

Taxes

Uncle Sam will be happy...I finally got my tax returns done and in the mail today!!
This was quite the process for me this year. Normally, I give my W2s to my parents, throw in $ for fees and say "see ya lata...and don't forget to put my return check in the mail"! Well, this year, I decided to do it the so-called "easy way" and do them myself on Turbo Tax. I learned I know nothing when it comes to taxes, big financial words, or anything of the sort. I'm a moron! Karla walked me through step by step on my federal stuff and then of course since I lived in 2 different states this year, I had to fill out 2 Part-Time Resident State forms (which I couldn't do on Turbo Tax without paying through the nose)...confusing to high heaven if you ask me!! So that's where I pulled my friend Stevey aside and said "I'll treat you to Texas Roadhouse if you help me with my state taxes!" (So in reality, I'm still paying someone to do my taxes...so what have I gained from this go-round??) Well, at least we finished em - thank Jesus!

Lesson learned...the "easy way" is not so easy for me. Next year, H & R Block may be getting a call from me:)

IPOD??

IPOD, Oh Little IPOD
Where are you?

IPOD, Oh Little IPOD
They told me I had won the prize?
So excited about your little size?

IPOD, Oh Little IPOD
How I long to listen to you
And hold you in my hand.
Did you get lost in the sand?

IPOD, Oh Little IPOD
I pray you do not fear
I think UPS needs a little kick in the rear!!
:)

Kentucky Here I Come

I would say "I'm coming home tomorrow", but my mom would slap me upside the head and say "you are home honey!" Finishing up the last of the laundry and packing tonight. Flying out from St. Louis tomorrow. Long week. Here are some highlights:

-Meeting Lisa Whelchel ("Blair Warner" - Facts of Life tv show)
-Being 3 feet from God's magnificent creation - a.k.a. Kurt Warner from the St. Louis Rams (Jo, Karla...talk about it huh?)
-Listening to the coolest and hippest new version of the "muffin man" in the minivan with 5 other grown adults...rapping and having a marvelous time.
-Being harassed in front of 1,000 people by Chagy the Clown (have pictures to prove it)!
-WINNING AN IPOD!!!
-Finding out I'm going to be an aunt October 12, 2006!! (Matt and Melissa are pregnant:)
-Finally learning how to play Texas Hold Em and taking 3rd place...Beginner's Luck!
-Becca's surprise visit home for the shower:)
-Shawna's first bridal shower. Just got done helping them unload a couple cars full of stuff. Their house is already getting full...and they still have 4 showers to go, plus the wedding! Holy Moly!
It's been a great weekend. Really tired. Ready to get back in the groove. Praying that my bag will once again not exceed 50 lbs. tomorrow at the baggage check-in! We'll see:)

Good to see all you Quincians!! Love ya:)

Blogging Vacation

I'll be taking a little break from the blogging world for the next week or so.
Heading to the Children's Pastors Conference in Kansas City, MO (my old home!). I'll get to see dear friends in the Burg and then hob nob with all the children's ministry goo-roos. Finishing up the week in Q-town for a little Q-time with family and friends. I'll be seeing some of you really soon. Have a great week my friends:)

Cincinnati Weekend

Had a great trip to Cincinnati this past Friday and Saturday. My buddy Josh and I took a little road trip to see some friends of ours. Went to the CIY Believe Conference at the Cinergy Center where my good friend Monte Hunt was playing the drums for Foundation Red. Can't even begin to tell you how amazing it was to watch him in his element...I was so proud of him. Real sad that Amy couldn't be there, but I got an extra big hug from Monte from her...so it's all good! MISS THEM SO MUCH!! It stinks sometimes living multiple states away from best friends, but the Lord always makes sure our paths cross every once in awhile.

Later that evening, drove up to Dayton to stay with my long lost college buddy...the infamous red-head, Jessica Armstrong. Haven't seen her in over two years...crazy! We stayed up til about 3 am chatting and catching up. It was a blast to recap what's been happening in our lives and to relive old college memories. I just have to say, "What were we thinking?" Sometimes we did the craziest things, but I wouldn't change any of it for the world. It was a great time! And I must say the next morning (after we had coffee), we busted out the old N'SYNC CD and jammed to our favorite tunes from the old days. Actually, I can't say the old days...we both confessed that we keep the CD in our cars still and listen every once in awhile. Real tragic and pathetic I know. So that's that. Good friends, great weekend...

Surprising...

This entry is being written for a friend of mine who encouraged me to post something new for him to read. Don't have any specifics to write about, but here's a recap of some highlights...

1. Valentine's Day was seriously the best Heart Day EVER (it's a bold statement, but I'm making it). For various reasons that I can't reveal in blog world, but for those of you who know me pretty well, you will understand. It was a day FULL of SMILES and lots of God Winks!! :) He's been evident in many different parts of my life. Heck, I'm just thankful He's looking in my direction and hasn't given up on me.

2. New love. Dave Barnes. Didn't go on a date with him, but I'm listening to his music and thinking it is pretty phenomenal. Heart warming, fun, good feelings, sweet as can be lyrics. Loving him and recommending him. Doesn't quite take the place of Michael Buble in my heart, but finding a special place these days for little ole Davey. Check him out!

That's all for now my blogging friends...

S.A.A.P.G.O.N.

Seventh Annual Action Packed Groovy Over Nighter.
Friday and Saturday became ONE WHOLE DAY.
6:00 p.m. (really started at noon with prep work) - 9:00 a.m.
Pizza, cookies, cotton candy, popcorn, movies, worship, putt-putt, bingo, hair salon, bandanas, face paint, gigantic inflatables, stinky smelly sweaty kids(and feet) :), Jello Olympics, prizes and .... absolutely NO SLEEP!!
703 - 4th and 5th graders (set a new SECC record)!!!
Insane...yes!
Would I do it again...in a heartbeat!!

Having hair regrets after only 4 days...this can't be good!
Thinking it is just a mourning period.
Hoping "this too shall pass...or grow fast"!

fyi - now would not be a good time to say "I told ya so".

The Weight's Been Lifted

Lost 5 lbs!! Unfortunately it's not body weight my friends...it's hair weight!! I took the plunge Friday afternoon and went and cut my hair. Looking back I wonder what the heck was I thinking, but I'm getting used to it. To be honest, I couldn't take the weight of it anymore...it was SOOO heavy! It feels 100% lighter and it now saves me drying time and $ for shampoo, conditioner, mousse, hair spray and anything else I would use to tame the mop.

Now, my long haired fans, do not fret, it is still below my shoulders (we won't be revisiting that short hair high school/college nightmare anytime soon). I have the swooping bang effect going on now, which I'm liking. You'll have to judge for yourself.

A special shout out to Shawna. I'm sorry girl...I couldn't wait a month to see you. The lady gave you props on your highlighting job! You're still the best and my favorite:) Love ya!

Sam's Club Outing

Today, Karla and I made our usual 3-month visit to Sam's Club to buy snacks for the little kiddies on Saturday nights. To be honest, it is really my job and I drag Karla along because she is a willing soul...and a dinga-dang-dong good friend:) And this trip is no easy task. Many many preparations go into this outing...from check requisitions to borrowing John O's truck. It is not uncommon for us (basically me today) to make a complete and utter specticals of ourselves at Sam's Club with the amount of stuff we buy.

We walk in and show our club member card and proceed to the cart area. This job requires more than just an oversized cart. It's serious business folks...flatbed all the way...sometimes maybe 2! I've gotten pretty good about the route to take with these big ole honkin thangs...straight to the juice aisle. We load up about 30 4-packs of Capri Suns (basically filling up an entire flatbed). Definite all-over muscle toning exercise! Next, we head to the snack aisle and buy lots of fatty good snacks for the kiddos to eat. We've gotten into a routine which makes shopping just that more enjoyable. Only today, I was quite the spectical. I had my flatbed piled up to my eyeballs with boxes and couldn't see a stinking thing in front of me. Karla was my guide, watching out for small children and everyone else in the store found it pretty hilarious. Ha. Ha. Ha to you all. To be honest though, I was chuckling right along with them. I was a sight to see!

After loading, unloading and putting away this mass of goodies...I can finally call it a day. Whew!

Brownies with a little surprise

Attempted to make goodies for my D-Group girls last night at home. First of all, must give props to my friend Karla for the recipe idea. She made these wonderful little delights Sunday for our football watching extravaganza. Thought I would attempt to make them myself because they changed my life.

Explanation: Brownies made in little muffin pans with a little bit of heaven in the middle. (i.e. Reese's Peanut Butter Cups)

First batch: Amazing taste...not so pretty. Overfilled the pan and they all looked like mushrooms. As I went to get them out of the pan, the tops popped off. Grrr!

Second batch: "Let's use baking cups and not fill them so full." Amazing taste again, but this time much better looking! Thank the Lord! :)

For those of you Weight Watcher People...this is not a recipe I would recommend. My apologies!

For Your Viewing Pleasure

This is a little chance to brag on my friends from Kentucky. This was taken yesterday at the Broncos vs. Steelers football watching bash...if you can't tell, most of them are Broncos fans...and then there's SteveO and I staying strong with our Steelers colors! These people are great!!
Front row: Amanda(from IL), Madonna (from IL) Middle row: John O, Karla(from IL), Steve, Tammy
Back row: Kevin, me(from IL) and Nate(from IL)
*Notice how 5 of the 9 are from IL and it took moving to Kentucky for all of us to meet. Funny!

First Snow

Woke up to 3 inches of snow on the ground this morning...incredible!
Didn't think I wanted it after the gorgeous spring weather we've been having, but I'll take it:)
Hopefully, all you snow lovers out there aren't jealous. It is b-e-a-utiful!! Come to Kentucky and see if you want!

PS - just found out that if you start your car to warm it up and leave it unattended in Louisville, you get a TICKET!! Even in your own driveway! What is this world coming to?

Drama, Drama, Drama...

Oh the dramas of the dating life...
Will it ever end?
Recently a book was recommended to me to read about a new approach to dating. It is a book by Dr. Henry Cloud (a reliable and intelligent source). He wrote all the "Boundaries" books for those who've never heard of him. How to Get a Date Worth Keeping - Be Dating in Six Months or Your Money Back. I know the title sounds cheesy, but hang with me. I've read a couple chapters in it so far...intriguing. Really nothing new. My mom has been telling me to do this for as long as I can remember, but I've stuck to my "I'm a lady in waiting" mentality. For instance, if God has the right man out there...He will bring him to me. Well, this knight in shining armor has yet to find me and lately I've found myself waiting at my front door hoping the FedEx man will be gorgeous. You get what I'm saying?? Cloud says, "I haven't been "out there" enough meeting new people." In his book, he offers himself as a dating coach, and has a program for you to follow. One of the first steps is to meet 5 new guys a week...that's right 5!! And not just say hi, but they 1) have to be new to you. 2)have to be interested in you. 3) you have to exchange phone #s. And let me just say it again. 5 guys! I'm lucky if I get 5 guys in 5 years, let alone 5 guys in one week. Talk about it! Supposedly, this program teaches you to find your real issues with dating and help you conquer them. Helping you to come out of your shell. We'll see about that! So, this past week I tried to branch out and meet some new people at Awake(our 23-30 yr. olds gathering)...not so much a success. I'm horrible at it! Still deciding if I'm going to finish this book.
For those of you who have found your special someone for life...what a blessing!
For those still waiting/hunting...bet you are wishing it were as easy as waiting for the FedEx man at this point in time....hang in there!! :)

The Cat's Out of the Bag

It was a monumental day in Southeast history...

We heard about it Thursday. The announcement was made to the staff, but our lips were sealed. It was exciting beyond words to have been a part of that staff meeting. I sat there as Bob Russell addressed all of us. And this weekend...the rest of the congregation heard. Bob handed over the reigns to Dave Stone in services this weekend. In a sense he "passed the baton...or the tie" for that matter. Bob's official retirement won't happen until July of this year, but from here on out, Dave Stone is now the "prime" minister of SECC. It was a bitter sweet moment. I watched as Bob made his announcement in 3rd service and as he walked down the steps to his seat...it was sad. The man has been God's vessel in building this church for the last 40 years. His fingerprints are all over this place. He will be missed.

But oh the excitement I felt as I watched my friend Dave walk up to the pulpit and address the congregation. I've never before been so 100% behind a leader like this before. I've heard his vision for the future and I believe it is definitely God-ordained and that it will connect thousands more to Jesus Christ in the near future. Oooo...gives me goosebumps.

The basic idea to his vision is...

• Subtraction
• Addition
• Division
• Multiplication

Subtraction - 1. From our Membership Roll. Finding out whose really committed to Jesus and to evangelizing the community. 2. From our Programming. Getting away from the Smorgesboard approach and focusing more on certain areas.

Addition - 1. Using intentional language. Connecting People to Jesus and to One Another. 2. Having an Intentional Pathway. Teaching us the Value of Focus.

Division - 1. Dividing into Regions for Bible Study and Service. Connecting with people in your area through home Bible Study groups and service opportunities. Teaching us the value of connecting.

Multiplication - 1. Regional Small Groups. 2. Neighborhood Community Centers with numerous outreach programs. 3. Multi-site Worship Settings. A branch off of the main campus using live via satellite communications, so we could experience worship together and the multi-site centers could still feel connected to the body.

I was pumped about his vision. I know it will be supported. A few standing ovations are an indication of that. Pray for Dave, pray for the leadership, pray for the staff, pray for the congregation. This place is used to change, but this is the biggest change this place has ever seen. We are having to say goodbye to a living legend, but what we are about to experience is the 2nd Movement of His Orchestral Masterpiece....and it's just beginning. Maybe a change of tempo, maybe a change in key, but amazing nevertheless. Taking a moment to sit back and listen...

Routine...What's That?

First day back to work in over a week. Took a Christmas vacation and went home to Quincy for the Holidays. Great trip, but WAY too quick! Here are some highlights...

1. Kazoo Caroling with the Nobis Clan.
2. Shopping with Mom for Christmas presents.
3. Spending Christmas Eve with the family that just keeps growing!
4. Enjoying 3 Christmas services (2 at MPCC and 1 at the Crossing).
5. The smile I had on my face as I watched some pretty special people lead a congregation in worship Sunday morning. Just made my heart bubble over with joy to see them in their element again...love them. The Christmas Carols rocked and "it's not about the box" (2 of the many things I took home from that service).
6. Having more presents than John to open up Christmas day :) (Only because he got a pretty expensive drill - not because mom and dad love me more...at least that's what we told him!!) hehe
7. Watching the "scarf receivers" open up their gifts and enjoy (or at least acting like they were thankful). A lot of work(probably the beginning of long road of arthritis)...alot of hours...alot of great scarves I wish I could have kept cause I liked em so much.
8. Listening to the countless times John made fun of my scarves and realizing that he was just jealous cause he didn't get one!
9. Spending almost every day of last week at John and Sha's new place painting their front room. Hearing their ideas about what they're going to do with the rest of it and experiencing the excitement of it all. Must admit I'm a little jealous that he was the first of the Mitchell kids to buy a house.
10. Meeting Bobo!
11. Spending an evening in Macomb watching high school basketball and then eating the most delicious pizza thingy afterwards...mmmm.
12. Taking a pit-stop on the way back to Kentucky to meet Karla's family in Centralia IL! They have an incredible Walgreens:)
13. Having funny conversations with my buddy Ben - who will always be the one I call for a quick cheering up session!
14. Seeing and spending some QT with buddy Neal and hearing about his upcoming adventures at The Crossing....so proud of him.
15. All the special moments spent at home around our 4 ft. Christmas tree this year:) Just kidding mom! It was all great and I love ya!
16. And last but not least...sleeping in my Heavenly Cloud of a Bed for an entire week!!!