By the looks of the countdown above...the day is approaching faster than I thought. The first number is what scares me - 4 months!!! Yikes Bikes! Still so much to do. I hadn't looked at my blog for over a week because of camp and before I left, the first number was sitting safely at #5. Now all of the sudden we've breached the next level and a new sense of panic has set in. But who can stop time? Well, God can stop time, but I'm pretty sure if I asked him to, He would chuckle a bit and give me that look that says "I don't think so". He did it for Joshua...come on now!!
Who am I kidding though. I wish the countdown said 4 days instead of 4 months. I'm ready to be married to this man. I've finally found the love of my life and this whole planning stuff is getting old. I've planned enough. I got the man. I got the dress. I got the ring. I got the preacher. I got the music woman. The essentials in my opinion. What else do ya need?
Max and I are excited though. We are close to snagging an apartment that we both really like and for us...that is HUGE! We were offered a washer and dryer combo worth $1,200 for free - just because someone wanted to bless us. Thank you God! We begin our pre-marital counseling next week with a great guy on staff. Looking forward to see what advice he has to offer. This relationship stuff is fun, but I wouldn't want to take this marriage thing on with anyone else. It really helps that I love this man more than life itself. Cause somedays it's not that easy. We are two different people, with different personalities and different opinions...it can cause friction. But, we work things out, ask for forgiveness and move on. Ain't love grand?
Now that camp is done and I'm back to reality, I'll try to write more frequently. Reality without rest time and pool time...yuck! I want to go back:(
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Still Hanging in There
Just wanted to let everyone know that I am still alive. My apologies for those who check my blog everyday and have been left hanging for months....Max. I really didn't think my life was that interesting:) The last two weeks I've been at camp with 3rd-5th graders and having a blast. We have decision counseled around a dozen kids who have made decisions for Christ - how awesome! I love this job! Plus, we get to spend the afternoon lounging around at the pool talking to kids. Come on now people...who wouldn't LOVE camp? One more week, and then we're off and running planning for Fall Kick-Off. Lord help us!
Wedding plans are coming along just nicely. Invitations are printed and ready to go. Showers have been planned in Quincy - yippee! Registries are complete. Top four picks: Lowes, Pampered Chef, Bed Bath & Beyond, and good ole Wal-Mart. Quincy really needs to get a Target! :) Engagement pics have been ordered - props to Laura! They were incredible. Looking forward to the wedding pics. Thankful also for a mom that is willing to be the wedding planner. Couldn't do it without her...seriously. She is amazing and I'm pretty sure she is loving every minute of it. Except having to wait on us to get her our finalized guest lists...they're coming, i promise.
Random sighting...
Ran into Gil and Angie in Cincinnati. Max and I drove to CCU to turn in one of his papers. As we were getting out of our car, a tall, bald fellow came strolling up the road. I told Max that he looked alot like Gil. Come to find out he and Ang were both there with the kiddos. Got to see Carterman and got to meet Brynn for the first time. She's a doll and had just learned how to spit. :) It was too cute, I couldn't help but laugh. Anyways...hadn't seen Ang since the John and Shawna wedding, so it was REALLY good to see her and the fam.
That's about it for tonight. Must get to bed and get some rest before camp. Lata...
Wedding plans are coming along just nicely. Invitations are printed and ready to go. Showers have been planned in Quincy - yippee! Registries are complete. Top four picks: Lowes, Pampered Chef, Bed Bath & Beyond, and good ole Wal-Mart. Quincy really needs to get a Target! :) Engagement pics have been ordered - props to Laura! They were incredible. Looking forward to the wedding pics. Thankful also for a mom that is willing to be the wedding planner. Couldn't do it without her...seriously. She is amazing and I'm pretty sure she is loving every minute of it. Except having to wait on us to get her our finalized guest lists...they're coming, i promise.
Random sighting...
Ran into Gil and Angie in Cincinnati. Max and I drove to CCU to turn in one of his papers. As we were getting out of our car, a tall, bald fellow came strolling up the road. I told Max that he looked alot like Gil. Come to find out he and Ang were both there with the kiddos. Got to see Carterman and got to meet Brynn for the first time. She's a doll and had just learned how to spit. :) It was too cute, I couldn't help but laugh. Anyways...hadn't seen Ang since the John and Shawna wedding, so it was REALLY good to see her and the fam.
That's about it for tonight. Must get to bed and get some rest before camp. Lata...
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Check List
Suits, invitations, and the beginning of registries...
Just a couple more things to cross off the list. God has been doing some crazy cool things for us in helping plan this wedding and the marriage after. We have had alot of things fall into place. Feeling blessed.
Just a couple more things to cross off the list. God has been doing some crazy cool things for us in helping plan this wedding and the marriage after. We have had alot of things fall into place. Feeling blessed.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Friends...Family...same thing to me!
Best buddies...Monte & Amy
Ahh...
Momma and Carterman
Going on a year...Johnny & Sha. Came out to visit us in Louisville.
My girls...Missy, Melissa & Jane
My best friend...
Good buddies...Kevin & Madonna
Happy Anniversary! John & Becky
Tammy's Fun Girl Night!
Long lost friend...Ricki!
Best Roomie Friend...Kark
Valentines' Day :)
Steve, Karla, Nevan & me...having way too much fun in the office.
John O & Karla...up to no good!
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Trip to Indiana University
Max and I took a trip to his college town of Bloomington, IN. "Hoosier Land" he so affectionately calls it. Beautiful scenic route. Quaint little surrounding towns. Nice place to visit. Beauitful campus. Great people. Look and see!
Hoosier Stadium!
The bowling alley where Max recommitted his life to Christ...how cool!!
View of the campus
Max's friend/mentor, Brandon.
Max and I at the Steak n Shake where he spent many nights with his fraternity brothers.
Hoosier Stadium!
The bowling alley where Max recommitted his life to Christ...how cool!!
View of the campus
Max's friend/mentor, Brandon.Hey ladies....he's single and he has a job!! :)
Monday, April 02, 2007
Mystery Solved...I Hope!
Ya know, after 10 months of pain and dropping a few hundred $ on doctor bills...I am finally glad to have some kind of answer as to what has been causing my chronic back pain. Seriously folks! It took going to a surgeon and having an MRI done to figure out that 1) I'm not crazy! 2) I don't need surgery (Praise the Lord!) and 3) that the underlying cause is that the involuntary muscle in the deep abdominal region hasn't been working right. It and my brain haven't been "talking to each other" for almost a year now. Who da thunk?
Basically, this muscle wraps around my spine and protects it. So when you bend over to pick up something heavy, like a laundry basket or something, it automatically contracts, helping to protect your spine from injury. Well, somewhere back in June of last year, I injured myself and my brain stopped sending signals to this muscle. Hence the reason my lower back and hip area have been out of whack. That particular muscle isn't doing its job. It isn't strong enough to hold my spine in place and so my lower lumbar have been having a party, dancing all over the place. In turn, knocking everything else out of whack!
10 months ago, I begin going to the chiropractor. 5 months ago, I begin intensive therapy with the doctor. A month ago, I give up on the intensive therapy - it's not working. I schedule an appointment with a surgeon. Two weeks ago, I'm ready to hear the news that I need to have surgery and have hit a low point. A week ago, I go to get an MRI. The next day, I hear I don't have to have surgery, but I need to go to physical therapy. Today, I go to physical therapy and meet Janelle. Janelle tells me exactly what we are going to do to fix the problem. Today, I've hit a high point and am thanking GOD right and left for answered prayers and have a renewed hope that I will get through this.
So there you have it friends. Mystery solved...hopefully!
Thanks to all of you who have prayed over this situation. It has meant the world to me. Please keep praying...this ain't over yet!!
And Thank you Max...I think our miracle is in the works! I love you!
Basically, this muscle wraps around my spine and protects it. So when you bend over to pick up something heavy, like a laundry basket or something, it automatically contracts, helping to protect your spine from injury. Well, somewhere back in June of last year, I injured myself and my brain stopped sending signals to this muscle. Hence the reason my lower back and hip area have been out of whack. That particular muscle isn't doing its job. It isn't strong enough to hold my spine in place and so my lower lumbar have been having a party, dancing all over the place. In turn, knocking everything else out of whack!
10 months ago, I begin going to the chiropractor. 5 months ago, I begin intensive therapy with the doctor. A month ago, I give up on the intensive therapy - it's not working. I schedule an appointment with a surgeon. Two weeks ago, I'm ready to hear the news that I need to have surgery and have hit a low point. A week ago, I go to get an MRI. The next day, I hear I don't have to have surgery, but I need to go to physical therapy. Today, I go to physical therapy and meet Janelle. Janelle tells me exactly what we are going to do to fix the problem. Today, I've hit a high point and am thanking GOD right and left for answered prayers and have a renewed hope that I will get through this.
So there you have it friends. Mystery solved...hopefully!
Thanks to all of you who have prayed over this situation. It has meant the world to me. Please keep praying...this ain't over yet!!
And Thank you Max...I think our miracle is in the works! I love you!
Monday, March 12, 2007
The Missing Piece...The Dress
I think I am one of the lucky bride-to-be's. I hear horror stories of women not being able to find the dress they want at the right price and they search for months and months. I don't know if it ever crossed my mind that I'd have trouble finding it. I was just anxious to get started. And I think my real fear was that I was going to fall in love with a dress that I couldn't afford. But, I found it and in less than 2 hours of searching...how bout them apples!!
Mom and Shawna finally came into town this weekend. (I told mom I would wait for her to try on dresses...and after a month of having this ring on my finger, I was ready to go!!) We headed out shopping with my good (and honest) buddies Karla and Becky. There was one particular dress that I wanted to try on, and so it was first. It was pretty, but I knew I needed to try others on. So the girls went to work...sifting through racks and racks of dresses. We eventually got this assembly line thing working pretty nicely and I was making some good time. It helps, ladies, when they are zip-up and not lace-up. One lace-up dress and I was done with that "style". Another tip...don't EVER go wedding dress shopping on a Saturday!! If you have ever seen the FRIENDS episode where Monica goes to find her wedding dress...you'll get the idea why it was a mistake!
Anyways. Jessica (our DB consultant) asked if I had tried on a certain dress and my girls said I hadn't yet. She went to the back and pulled out some dresses for me to try on. She said this particular dress was her favorite in the whole store. So I gave it a whirl. Mom zipped me up and I walked out. At this moment in time, everything began moving in slow motion and the heavens opened up and the angels began singing. All eyes looked my way and the other brides in the room turned a nasty color of green. My girls and I, well, we just smiled at each other and shed some tears. Up until this moment, no dress had gotten "The WOW Factor Stamp of Approval". But friends, this one definitely did. I have never felt so beautiful. I wish I could describe the dress to you all and even show a picture, BUT my honey reads this blog and we can't go givin away details...now can we! Guess you will have to see it when I wear it:) (or just come find me and I'll show you pictures!!)
Mom and Shawna finally came into town this weekend. (I told mom I would wait for her to try on dresses...and after a month of having this ring on my finger, I was ready to go!!) We headed out shopping with my good (and honest) buddies Karla and Becky. There was one particular dress that I wanted to try on, and so it was first. It was pretty, but I knew I needed to try others on. So the girls went to work...sifting through racks and racks of dresses. We eventually got this assembly line thing working pretty nicely and I was making some good time. It helps, ladies, when they are zip-up and not lace-up. One lace-up dress and I was done with that "style". Another tip...don't EVER go wedding dress shopping on a Saturday!! If you have ever seen the FRIENDS episode where Monica goes to find her wedding dress...you'll get the idea why it was a mistake!
Anyways. Jessica (our DB consultant) asked if I had tried on a certain dress and my girls said I hadn't yet. She went to the back and pulled out some dresses for me to try on. She said this particular dress was her favorite in the whole store. So I gave it a whirl. Mom zipped me up and I walked out. At this moment in time, everything began moving in slow motion and the heavens opened up and the angels began singing. All eyes looked my way and the other brides in the room turned a nasty color of green. My girls and I, well, we just smiled at each other and shed some tears. Up until this moment, no dress had gotten "The WOW Factor Stamp of Approval". But friends, this one definitely did. I have never felt so beautiful. I wish I could describe the dress to you all and even show a picture, BUT my honey reads this blog and we can't go givin away details...now can we! Guess you will have to see it when I wear it:) (or just come find me and I'll show you pictures!!)
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Kids Will Say the Darndest Things...
This funny comment happened last night at our Jr. Vocal Team Rehearsal...
Setting up the Story:
The older kids just found out that I was engaged. Some were singing the "bridal chorus", some were screaming, and others wanted to see the ring.
Her: Let me see your ring Miss Sara!!!
Me: Okay (and I put my hand out very proudly)
Her: Wow!?! It's actually really pretty. (completely stunned & surprised)
Me: Thanks.
(but in my mind I was thinking...WHAT?? Are ya kidding me? Did ya think it would be ugly or something??)
Come on now honey! :)
Crack me up.
Setting up the Story:
The older kids just found out that I was engaged. Some were singing the "bridal chorus", some were screaming, and others wanted to see the ring.
Her: Let me see your ring Miss Sara!!!
Me: Okay (and I put my hand out very proudly)
Her: Wow!?! It's actually really pretty. (completely stunned & surprised)
Me: Thanks.
(but in my mind I was thinking...WHAT?? Are ya kidding me? Did ya think it would be ugly or something??)
Come on now honey! :)
Crack me up.
Thursday, February 08, 2007
It's Official!!!
As of 8:25pm Tuesday evening, I am officially engaged! That's right, you heard correctly...it's true! After 26 years of praying and wishing and hoping and watching too many chick flicks, I finally have found the love of my life and his name is Max. Here's how it went down...
5:00pm - I get a call from the receptionist at work telling me I have a delivery downstairs. I told her that I would be down in a little bit to pick it up. Thankfully, I didn't wait too long to leave work that day, because when I went to the front desk to pick it up, there was a note accompanied by a single red rose telling me that I needed to be home by 5:30 tonight. (Note that Max is supposed to be in class at CCU - I'm not expecting him in Louisville until the next night). So, needless to say - he surprised me!
5:30pm - I arrive at home and little by little, I collect 11 other roses with similar notes, telling me to get ready for a big night. He has prepared an anniversary celebration for us and I am giddy to say the least. The last note said that I needed to be ready by 7:00 and that a car and a driver would be there to pick me up.
5:45-7:00 - Panic set in. I rushed to the shower smiling from ear to ear. Mind racing through the closet of clothes...
7:00 - Sitting on the couch in anticipation, awaiting my chariot.
7:30 - Still sitting on the couch awaiting my chariot. Wondering what is going on and why I'm still sitting at home.
7:35 - Chariot arrives. Scott, Max's fraternity brother gets out of the car and comes to the door. Oops, he got lost.
7:45 - Still driving. Scott got lost again and I am now 45 minutes late to my final destination. Max is wondering if I'm coming at all. He figures that I found out what he was planning to do and decided not to come. I finally arrive at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse (one of the finest restaurants in Louisville). I'm impressed. Max is sitting and anxiously awaiting.
7:50 - Our food comes and Max informs me that unfortunately, we have to eat fast because he has other plans for the evening. Our server dishes out our amazingly juicy and mouth-watering steak - honestly the best steak you'll ever have in your life. Mmmm....
8:20 - Our meal wraps up and Max decides he wants a picture of us all dressed up. He asks the server, Justin, to take our picture and he agrees. We walk over to the windows where you can see the skyline of Louisville - amazing. Max won't turn and face the camera, he just keeps whispering sweet words in my ear.
8:25 - I hear the words..."I Love You" for the first time! He gets down on one knee. I stumble a bit and he catches me on his way down (embarassing, but memorable). He tells me that he wants to spend the rest of his life with me and then he asked me to marry him! I bent down, kissed him, then told him...YES!! He puts the bling bling ring on my finger and the rest is history. He shouts out for the restaurant to hear "SHE SAID YES!!" Everyone cheers and we head out to the chariot again.
8:30 - We arrive at Buffalo Wild Wings where some of our family and friends were waiting to surprise us. We had a little engagement party and it was a ton of fun! Here are a couple pictures from the evening...
The Big Day is set to be December 31, 2007! That's right...it's gonna be a New Years Eve Bash. It will take place in Illinois and I can't wait! Yippee!!!
5:00pm - I get a call from the receptionist at work telling me I have a delivery downstairs. I told her that I would be down in a little bit to pick it up. Thankfully, I didn't wait too long to leave work that day, because when I went to the front desk to pick it up, there was a note accompanied by a single red rose telling me that I needed to be home by 5:30 tonight. (Note that Max is supposed to be in class at CCU - I'm not expecting him in Louisville until the next night). So, needless to say - he surprised me!
5:30pm - I arrive at home and little by little, I collect 11 other roses with similar notes, telling me to get ready for a big night. He has prepared an anniversary celebration for us and I am giddy to say the least. The last note said that I needed to be ready by 7:00 and that a car and a driver would be there to pick me up.
5:45-7:00 - Panic set in. I rushed to the shower smiling from ear to ear. Mind racing through the closet of clothes...
7:00 - Sitting on the couch in anticipation, awaiting my chariot.
7:30 - Still sitting on the couch awaiting my chariot. Wondering what is going on and why I'm still sitting at home.
7:35 - Chariot arrives. Scott, Max's fraternity brother gets out of the car and comes to the door. Oops, he got lost.
7:45 - Still driving. Scott got lost again and I am now 45 minutes late to my final destination. Max is wondering if I'm coming at all. He figures that I found out what he was planning to do and decided not to come. I finally arrive at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse (one of the finest restaurants in Louisville). I'm impressed. Max is sitting and anxiously awaiting.
7:50 - Our food comes and Max informs me that unfortunately, we have to eat fast because he has other plans for the evening. Our server dishes out our amazingly juicy and mouth-watering steak - honestly the best steak you'll ever have in your life. Mmmm....
8:20 - Our meal wraps up and Max decides he wants a picture of us all dressed up. He asks the server, Justin, to take our picture and he agrees. We walk over to the windows where you can see the skyline of Louisville - amazing. Max won't turn and face the camera, he just keeps whispering sweet words in my ear.
8:25 - I hear the words..."I Love You" for the first time! He gets down on one knee. I stumble a bit and he catches me on his way down (embarassing, but memorable). He tells me that he wants to spend the rest of his life with me and then he asked me to marry him! I bent down, kissed him, then told him...YES!! He puts the bling bling ring on my finger and the rest is history. He shouts out for the restaurant to hear "SHE SAID YES!!" Everyone cheers and we head out to the chariot again.
8:30 - We arrive at Buffalo Wild Wings where some of our family and friends were waiting to surprise us. We had a little engagement party and it was a ton of fun! Here are a couple pictures from the evening...
The Big Day is set to be December 31, 2007! That's right...it's gonna be a New Years Eve Bash. It will take place in Illinois and I can't wait! Yippee!!!
Thursday, January 04, 2007
My Space Revolution
So I went on "My Space" for the first time the other night. Seeing as how I don't have access to it at my office, I've never had the opportunity to browse my friends' pages. In checking this whole new world out, I came to the sudden realization that I am totally behind the times with this whole "Blogging" thing. But what's new...I'm always behind in the "trendy" area. What saddened me most was to see all of my "Blogging" friends who had "My Space" accounts. They were all linked together and commenting on each other's pages...I felt so left out. :) Like the reject in the corner at a cool kids party! I've been wondering why people weren't updating their blogs....well...now I know the truth! I've been betrayed by My Space. I get it...you all are too cool for the Blog now. :) Guess I need to succumb to peer pressure and get myself hooked up with a My Space account, huh? The question is...am I cool enough?
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
A Holiday Season to Remember
Holiday Season 2007 was pretty phenomenal. I was able to go home and spend Christmas with my entire family, which hasn't happened in awhile. Plus, we had the addition of Mr. Carter, who is pretty dang cute. Max was able to make the trip with me and thus, we spent our first Christmas together and made some nice memories.
Growing up is fun ya know. You realize how cool your parents really are! My parents are leaving a legacy. They continue to teach me many things, even though I don't live under the same roof anymore. Things they taught me years ago are remaining in my heart and mind and helping me through some important decision making processes. I love them. I love that they led me to fall in love with God. I love my family. I love my friends. Thanks to all who made this holiday
season amazing... 
Growing up is fun ya know. You realize how cool your parents really are! My parents are leaving a legacy. They continue to teach me many things, even though I don't live under the same roof anymore. Things they taught me years ago are remaining in my heart and mind and helping me through some important decision making processes. I love them. I love that they led me to fall in love with God. I love my family. I love my friends. Thanks to all who made this holiday
season amazing... 
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Monday, November 06, 2006
Thursday, November 02, 2006
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!!
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!!
Friday, October 20, 2006
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!
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Saturday, October 07, 2006
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...
Thursday, October 05, 2006
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! :)
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! :)
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
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!
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!
Monday, September 11, 2006
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!
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!
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