Putting Down Roots

Thoughts and updates

2010-11-28T12:15:00.012-05:00

I haven't posted in quite a while. I've struggled with having a blog...how candid should I be?? Is it okay to be sarcastic and a little critical in such a pubic place? Does my blog honor Christ or is it just a space to display wit that may not be life giving? I desire to be intentional in the way I live out my faith and have yet to find the balance of how to be real and honoring while blogging...

So instead I'll post about my bathroom/kitchen :)

Hubby and I bought a house in March. It's a fixer-upper. We moved-in in May and since then we've (and by we, I mean my part has been to keep a positive attitude!) been renoing the space. Walls have been knocked out, ceilings replaced, doors put in places where walls used to be, windows replaced and still tons more to do before the space is functional. So in the mean time we've been living in the back side of the house.

We really have everything we need. It just isn't always the most convenient! My kitchen is in the area that is down to bare bones so I've converted the ginormous master bathroom (which was built fully handicap accessible) into my make-shift kitchen. It's not perfect but it works :)

It's so big that my kitchen table fits!!

And here's my counter, sinks for washing, the hot plate and toaster oven that allow me to creatively cook (almost!) whatever I want :)

The bookshelf hides the toilet quite nicely.

Here's the shower. It's hidden behind the table and I usually have the curtain closed.

And in case you're concerned or just wondering...this bathroom is NEVER used as such!

Finding Inspiration

2010-07-26T21:51:00.009-04:00

I love everything about this little space. The crispness of the white paneling, the glorious dark gray of the walls, and the eclectic plates on the wall. And that yellow chair is fabulous too!

In the process of remodeling our 1950s home, we seem to have acquired a collection of old windows and the challenge of how to separate the space between the living room and sunk-in sunroom. I think I've found the perfect solution :)

A wonderful pop of color. Beautiful wood floors. Natural light.

Simply delightful :)

Too hot to be outside...

2010-07-24T12:59:00.001-04:00

So this is what I do instead :)

Life Abundant

2009-11-25T11:39:00.012-05:00

Experiencing the excellence of Christ

with high school friends

who are in need of the truest Love.

A Love that never fails.

Off to camp we go!

2009-11-20T18:51:00.004-05:00

This is what I wish I were wearing to camp this weekend...but it's far too cold for such attire!

River of Life

2009-10-29T11:22:00.004-04:00

I've had this in my head all morning. And I like it. It makes me smile and reminds me of summers at church camp :)

I've got a river of life flowing out of me.

Makes the lame to walk and the blind to see.

Opens prisons doors, sets the captives free

I've got a river of life flowing out of me.

Spring up, O well, in my soul.

Spring up, O well, and make me whole.

Spring up, O well, and give to me

That life abundantly!

Dirty Little Secret

2009-10-20T22:04:00.002-04:00

We just sang that this song by All American Rejects at club. I thought it was just that, a song. Until I came home tonight...

I found my husband in bed. Pretending to be asleep. Pretending. He got a good scare out of me when I went in to give him a kiss. But that's beside the point. It's what happened after this that matters.

You see, my husband loves to cut-out coupons. He's all about some good deals (and loves to brag about them too!), even at the grocery store. So in usual form, he came home bragging about all the good deals he scored the other night. But it seems he left something out...

That's right, after I kissed him goodnight, I came into the living room to relax. And wanting something sweet I began searching the kitchen cabinets for something to satisfy my craving. And that when the truth came out. His dirty little secret...a stash of Gushers!

So now I'm enjoying his little secret :)

Learning to say Goodbye

2009-10-13T09:58:00.002-04:00

She arrived in my life around Christmas three years ago. Back then she was so full of life and energy. And for three years she's been a constant companion.

But a couple of weeks ago I began noticing something strange. She just wasn't acting right anymore. I was in denial. I kept hope that the signs weren't real. But despite my wishful thinking, they were...so here's the truth. My precious phone is dying.

And while she loves to run away and hide from me, she's never lost a number or refused a call. She's been a most excellent travel companion. But our days together are coming to an end.

Her energy is always low. She just can't keep a charge. And pass-outs have become frequent in the recent weeks. And this morning, my faithful wake-up call didn't sound. She had died in the night (don't be too worried, I was able to revive her!).

I've begun wading through the grieving process. Fear of loosing numbers and having to begin a new relationship with a new phone often overcomes. But I am going to move forward and celebrate her life while she is still here.

October Desktop

2009-10-04T00:08:00.004-04:00

I've recently found some really great desktop backgrounds for my computer, and they just happen to themed for each month. Well I just wasn't excited about any of the October ones I'd found...so I made my own with some free digital scrapbook kits (my newest love!).

So here's what's now occupying my desktop :)

Messy and Stained

2009-09-29T17:00:00.011-04:00

It has become a tradition at the start of every year to have a messy club. Which is essentially a food fight.

We try to throw in some games with a purpose...well kinda. But the appeal really is a food fight of condiments, eggs, flour, sometimes garlic soaked noodles, and this year even included soup!

I love to start off with this cause its picture of how we are without Christ. Covered in our own junk and sin. Stained. Not matter how hard we try to clean ourselves off, our stench of deadness remains (and man do we smell after messy club!).

The beauty of messy club is getting to trust in Christ to clean them from the inside out. Bring them from death to life. Give them a new identity and new family as one of His.

Chestnuts

2009-09-26T10:02:00.001-04:00

While working at Dollywood many years back, I had the fortune of clocking in right next to an exhibit on the American Chestnut. And every day Dolly told me about this horrible fungus that wiped out all these beautiful old trees.

So sad. No really, I was upset about it.

That is until I had a chestnut tree in my yard. Now I'm not in the least bit upset.

All because of these evil things

If you've never encountered one, it might not look that bad. But one prick of those spikes and you'll think again!

Every fall I spend at least good five minutes of every morning in my backyard with tongs in hand ridding my yard of these spiky devils.

So needless to say, I'm okay with this Great American Chestnut Blight.

P.S. This may not be very green of me... but I wouldn't mind too much if there was a Chinese Chestnut Blight to take out the tree in my yard as well.

Immediately

2009-09-07T11:57:00.003-04:00

I'm trying to read the book of Mark. I'm going slow. Trying to be open to the Spirit and see the little things.

Well I'm still in chapter 1...but here's what God's been showing me :)

- v. 15b - Repent, and believe in the good news. All too often I take my life back into my own hands relying on my talents, abilities, and my own strength. But that's not the life Jesus has invited me to. A life following him is a life of putting my trust in him for the big things and the little things alike. It's a life of activity not just of thought. And this life he's calling me to is good. He is good. Even when it doesn't feel good!

- v.18 - Immediately. It's an amazing word that paints a distinct image in my mind. It's used often in the Old and New Testaments (as I just looked it up on Biblegateway.com). Immediately... its obviously another action word. But this word can be a reaction as well.

I want to be like Simon Peter and Andrew who immediately left their fishing nets and followed Jesus. I want to follow Him like that. I don't want to depend on my own understanding and reason but believe Him so much that I will immediately leave and go where He calls. Oh help my unbelief!

Stolen Shorts

2009-09-03T22:05:00.002-04:00

There are many things I love about living in Small Town, Virginia. I love that I can walk to grocery store and Sonic. I love that so many people live in houses built in the 1950s and earlier. And I love that people still hang their clothes on a line in the back yard.

Since moving to this house, I've taken full advantage of line drying some of my clothes -- jeans, causal shirts, etc. I really enjoyed it until two days ago.

I had done a small load of laundry, put my t-shirts and such in the drier and then hung out a couple pairs of shorts. One of these were some Nike athletic shorts.

But when I went back out later that afternoon to take my now dry clothes down something was missing. Yeah, my Nike shorts!

I looked around the yard hoping they had just blown off in a freak gust of wind. No such luck. Then my mind started racing coming up with all possibilities of who could have stolen them...another trick being played by high school girls? Maybe the cross country team? They do run the alley behind the house regularly. What about those boys I saw riding their bikes the other day??

I stayed mad until Husband mentioned it might be squirrels. Apparently they do things like that.

If I choose to blame it on high school kids I know I'll stay mad for awhile. So I'm choosing to blame it on the playful squirrels :)

I might not have my shorts back but at least I'm not scowling at every high school kid I see!

My Gray Bedroom!

2009-08-29T15:25:00.004-04:00

Just picture the walls in a lovely shade of gray :)

New Creation...Reincarnation and FRIENDS Moment Friday

2009-08-28T11:07:00.008-04:00

Every Monday my living room fills up with high school kids over for fellowship, worship and a Bible study. It's one of the highlights of my week!

This week, after gobbling down a batch of brownies and an ensuing icing fight, we spilt the group into guys and girls. Us girls graciously allowed the guys to stay outside with the very aggressive mosquitoes and build a fire, while we retired to the living quarters.

This week's group was a bit younger than usual, resulting in an increase of off-topic conversations and me desperately trying yet failing to reign them back in!

We've been talking about the characteristics of God, specifically his goodness, but turned this week to talk about who were are in Christ. We combed through scripture and discussed our condition apart from God.

As our conversation turned to the beautiful mystery of being made alive in Christ, and I quoted 2 Cor. 5: 17 - Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old is gone, the has come!

While most of the girls have heard this verse many, many times and understand the idea (or at least pretended to!), one sweet and very spunky girl was bold enough to ask, "Like reincarnation?" The under-the-breath snickers began, followed by a quick and desperate description of differences on my part, which immediately moved into reincarnation story time.

Come to find out, one of the girls has a family story where they believe their aunt's cat is really the reincarnation of a family friend. After this, there was no hope and getting back on track. So we prayed and ended Campaigners.

But this reincarnation story has been reminding me of a FRIENDS episode all week.

The One With The Cat (as seen in Season 4, Episode 2)

[Cut to someone entering Central Perk which lets a cat in. The cat then runs over to Phoebe's guitar case and starts sniffing around.]

Phoebe: Oh my God! No! Shoo! Kitty! No! No-no-no! Shoo! Come on, you! (goes over and picks up the cat) Come on. Crazy. (looks into the cat’s eyes) Oh my God.

Rachel: What?

Phoebe: Nothing. Nothing.

Joey: What? What’s wrong?

Phoebe: I just, I just have this really strong feeling that this cat is my Mother.

Rachel: You mean the mom you met in Montauk. She was a cat?!

Phoebe: No, no-no, she was a human lady. This is the spirit of my Mom Lily, the one who killed herself.

Ross: Are you sure she’s in the cat, or have you been taking your grandma’s glycoma medicine again?

Phoebe: No Dr. Skeptismo! I’m sure. First of all, okay, there’s the feeling. (Chandler shrugs) Okay, and for another, how about the fact that she went into my guitar case which is lined with orange felt. (Rachel nods her head in unsure agreement) My Mother’s favourite fish is Orange Roughy... (Joey thinks he understands, but then nods that he has no clue.) Cats....like....fish! (Ross and Rachel are totally lost) (to the cat) Hi, Mommy. (Rachel covers her mouth, in an “Oh my God.” gesture) Oh, I haven’t seen this smile in 17 years!

Joey: (to Chandler) Dude, Phoebe’s mom has got a huge peni...

Chandler: (interrupting) Let it go!!

A Hope and A Future

2009-08-27T09:09:00.004-04:00

Ever feel like you can't do anything right? Everyone's against you and no one is for you?

Lately me too!

"For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart." - Jeremiah 29:11-13

Wow, I needed to read this today!

What I Believe In

2009-08-26T08:08:00.000-04:00

- I believe in ballet flats. They're cute. They're comfy. They go with everything :)

- I believe in licking the ice cream bowl. Actually I believe it should be perfectly acceptable to lick any plate or large utensil if the food's good enough.

- I believe in dance parties and singing in the shower.

- I believe in sleepovers. In the house, on the floor, in a sleeping bag with my husband beside me. And then watching FRIENDS when he falls asleep :)

- I believe a good cry is necessary every now and then.

- I believe in Tennessee football and Peyton Manning.

- I believe in communicating expectations, talking out differences, and being upfront when I've been hurt.

- I believe in keeping old friends and making new ones.

- And above all, I believe Jesus can redeem all things.

Fall Inspired

2009-08-25T08:33:00.000-04:00

Do I get to go back to school shopping even if I'm out of school??

Cause if I do...

Gray Matters

2009-08-24T11:16:00.012-04:00

Hubby and I have begun discussing the idea of buying a house :) We've browsed online, driven around town, and identified favorite houses.

We're in no real hurry in this process. We want to find a great house in our price range, with a good yard, and in a good part of town. Okay the last one is more my qualification than his!

We really like the house we're renting. It has a great yard. And I simply love it's location. But it's not an option for us to buy :(

We've been renting for close two years now, and I'm really having to fight the 'I wanna paint' bug. But...

1. I'm not good at sticking to projects

2. Husband has no interest in painting (aka I would have to do it without his help)

3. And we'd have to repaint once we moved...boo!

All too much work to actually paint! But that doesn't stop a girl from imagining the perfect colors for each of our rooms.

And one of my favorite rooms to imagine with paint is our guest bedroom. It has the bedding I used in college. The bedding is not my favorite but during my senior year I loved it paired with grey walls...may sound strange but I loved it!

I recently found a couple of pictures of some beautiful gray bedrooms that only increased my desire to paint.

Simply beautiful!

Obsession Confession

2009-08-21T10:24:00.000-04:00

I'm addicted. To a TV show! Not sure how this happened. But it's true.

It's a well-known fact that I'm obsessed with FRIENDS so that not a confession. And just for the record...I only became obsessed after the series ended. I didn't even get to enjoy the frenzy when the show was first airing. Lame.

But anyways, back to my confession. I am obsessed with Big Brother. I've missed the craze for the past 10 seasons, but some how this summer I stumbled upon the first episode and have been watching ever since.

Maybe the word 'obsessed' needs to be clarified for my own sake. I usually have one or two shows I like to watch each season. I'm not home a lot in the evenings so I often miss the show and have to catch-up online. But I have never followed a reality show, which is why it's so strange for me to love Big Brother. Another clarification: I am definitely not the type of viewer who gets emotional or yells at the TV. And I don't have rules like no one can talk during the show. So maybe obsessed doesn't exactly describe my viewing but whatever!

Okay I feel better now that I've justified the obsession :)

Shaping Up

2009-08-20T17:24:00.002-04:00

I've been thinking for a while about joining a gym--the local rec is just not cutting it! I mean who wants to work out facing a freaking wall?? Even if it's free!

So I went by the local gym today to see about prices. As part of my benefit package my employer will pay a certain amount for such things, and this gym gives me a discount since the hubs is a local teacher. So the price is really good (of course they did try to sign me up for a personal trainer for $300!). But the commitment is a little scary.

I'm not known as the work out type of gal. I'd rather be tricked into it! Like a hike. Or dance worked real well in high school but my aging body has already made it clear that's no longer an option. Dance was also really great cause it was fun and different all the time. And it was called a dance studio rather than a gym :)

But I've decided to be committed. I'm putting some money on the line and getting my butt (bigger than it used to be!) in gear! Or that's the plan at least!

Marrying Up

2009-08-19T15:00:00.003-04:00

Marrying up. It's a phrase I've heard a lot lately. Usually stated by the husband. I think it's supposed to be a compliment, but does that mean the wife simply settled??

It's like the strange trend of where men in authority--pastors, teachers, etc.--go into great detail to about the apparent hotness of their wife. Hello...I don't need to hear about how hot your wife is! It's become the cool thing to say or something. Personally, I'd just rather be called beautiful :)

I'm just waiting for someone to actually admit they married down!

For the love of Mexican

2009-08-17T13:53:00.004-04:00

There are a few things that I could eat everyday and never grow tired of. It's not your usual kid's comfort food of PB&J or macaroni and cheese. My taste buds must be too sophisticated for that :) No its sushi and Mexican. Yum!

I'm semi picky about my sushi. Campus and the Kroger kind just don't cut it. And cream cheese in sushi is just gross, in my opinion.

But I'm not a very picky Mexican eater. I love it all! --Though usually get trapped in getting the same thing every time.-- While not picky, I am very loyal to my favorite places. They don't have to have the world's best Mexican food, they just need to be consistent. And when I have to switch restaurants (cause there are four Mexican restaurants in this very small town!) I get a bit cranky. I guess I'm just a creature of habit, a sucker for cheap Mexican, and love when the waiters know my order and name!

Los Amigos and El Charro: Stay sweet and never change!

Love,

Your biggest fan :)

Friends Moment Friday

2009-08-14T10:53:00.005-04:00

So I've been on a certain medication for a very long time. Think like 12 years long. And this certain medicine is a life saver at certain times of the month...following?? Life saver as in without it I throw up, pass out, and miss days of work/school. So since the age of 13 I've been on said medication. Hubby has never liked my dependence on it but since he doesn't feel the pain he can't have an opinion :)

Anyway, while I was in TN for the weekend I mentioned to my mom how mad I am that they switched me to a new the brand of medicine that has left me not feeling great for a number of days. My mom simply looks up at me and says, "You're gonna have an awful (as in painful) time getting pregnant when you decide you want to." This thought has haunted me for a long time now--along with a horrible birthing story I heard in college (which I will leave untold!). So, following in Monica's footsteps, I've officially decided the stork is going to bring mine too!

The One With The Birthing Video

(As seen in Season 8, Episode 15)

[Scene: Monica and Chandler’s. Monica and Chandler are sitting on the couch still staring at the screen after watching a birthing video.]

Monica: How long has it been this time?

Chandler: 90 seconds.

Monica: That’s better. 90 seconds is a long time not to think about it…except all I did was think about it.

Chandler: You know, it haunts me? Up ‘til now, the worst thing I ever saw, was my father doing tequila shots off the naked houseboy. After this, I would gladly make that my screensaver!

Monica: Okay, well, we have to get past this! Why don’t we get rid of the tape and pretend it never existed?

Chandler: I can do that.

Monica: Okay.

(Chandler takes the tape and sticks it under the chair cushion)

Chandler: Okay. Now all we’ve got to do is get rid of this chair.

(Chandler crawls over to Monica and they move in to kiss, but they can’t do it and back up. They move in to kiss again, and kiss very awkwardly for a second, until someone knocks on the door.)

Monica: Oh, thank God!

Chandler: Oh, I know!

Monica: Come in!

Rachel: (entering) Hi! I’m so sorry to barge in on your Valentine’s, but I had to get away from all the yelling. Mona is dumping Ross.

Monica: Oh, my God.

Chandler: Poor Ross.

(Monica and Chandler both look at each other and run over to the window to watch the action in Ross’ apartment)

Chandler: Oh, great. We have to watch him do yoga in his underwear, but for this he closes the drapes!

Monica: Rach, you know that birthing tape you wanted to see? It’s here.

Chandler: Oh, and we should warn you, before you watch it: don’t watch it.

Rachel: Why? You saw it? Is it scary?

Chandler: Well, let’s just say it’s ironic how footage of someone being born can make you want to kill yourself.

Monica: honey, she may not have to watch it, but she's going to have to do it.

Rachel: Well, now, wait. Now I’m all freaked out. Come on, you guys will watch it with me.

Monica: No, but I will leave a sweater that smells like me right next to you!

Rachel: Monica, c'mon you wanna have kids.

Monica: I do! but, the stork is gonna bring mine.

Personality Type

2009-08-13T13:55:00.006-04:00

Well it's official... Facebook said so. I'm an introvert. I always knew this to be true. But it is strange in my line of work where most people are very outgoing, upfront kind of people. And while I hate being put on the spot, I don't mind being upfront and in charge, I'd rather stay in the crowd and enjoy. I like to delegate and oversee rather than do...could that be the definition of lazy by any chance??

But I really hate the word introvert. It sounds so negative and loserish. Like sitting on the couch all day and refusing to leave the house. I prefer the understanding that an extrovert gains energy from a other people, while the introvert looses their energy. I can deal with that idea :)

Here's what Facebook said:

"You are quiet, friendly, sensitive, and kind. You enjoy the present moment, what's going on around you. You like to have your own space and to work within your own time frame. You are loyal and committed to your values and to people who are important to you. You dislike disagreements and conflicts, and you do not force your opinions or values on others. Famous people with your same personality include: Marie Antoinette, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Michael Jackson, John Travolta, and Paul McCartney."

Not sure how I feel being linked with Elizabeth Taylor and Michael Jackson though :/

Blog-cation

2009-08-12T11:05:00.007-04:00

Please excuse the blog-cation I've been on for...well the entire summer! But I'm back, or at least that's the plan :) Husband had to go back to work today. After two full months of sharing the house with him all day, it's weird being alone. Alone with my thoughts. So I blog again! And get back to cleaning, planning, and answering my phone again--I'm seriously horrible at this but I'm working on it!

I hate that my summer is on its way out, but the laziness does need to come to an end. The planner is returning and my pens are ready! My tan is fading already. I see paleness returning in my near future :/ but in its place, students return, traffic increases, and the fun begins!

In the mean time, I've decided to read the book of Mark. Sometimes I think I've heard all the stories and get complacent. But today something that I've read so many times struck me.

"In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him." - Mark 1: 9 & 10

The image of the heavens being torn just amazes me. I love how it contrasts the beauty of the Spirit descending like a dove. I love the foreshadowing of the curtain being torn in two (Mark 15) upon Christ's death of the cross. I love that I'm no longer separated from God, but my debt has been paid!

Beauty instead of ashes :)

In all things

2009-07-09T16:41:00.004-04:00

It's been a busy couple of weeks...so busy that blogging has been all but forgotten. I've got lots of great excuses, but I'll spare myself the time and energy of coming up with them :)

Let's just say getting ready and going to camp is hard work---physically, spiritually and emotionally. I'm still recovering on all ends.

I'm always exhausted by the third day at camp, and this exhaustion usually lasts into the third day of being home. Spiritually, I always need to be at camp just as much as my high school friends do. Every year I need to be reminded of God's unconditional love for me, I need to take a fresh look at my sin, and I need to surrender parts of my heart that I have taken back and withheld from God.

But this year the emotional part has hit me the hardest. And I haven't even let it fully hit me yet because honestly I'm not ready to deal with it.

I can easily relate God's love to a Father's love for His child. That's an illustration that's makes sense to me. My own father is great. He has always been quick to tell me of his love and how I make him proud. Hugs were always given generously. While my dad is far from perfect, he has been a picture of the beautiful and powerful way my heavenly Father loves me.

But how difficult it is to believe in a Father's unconditional, good and true love when your own father didn't display such love. My heart breaks for the girls who shared their stories of pain, abandonment, and abuse they've suffered at the hands of male family members. The scars of such events run so deep and affect their ability to trust a heavenly Father.

Their abuse is so horrible that I have not allowed myself to truly process it. And if it's hard for me to handle, how immeasurably more difficult is it for them! I want to be able to stand in the gap of their pain and the hope being offered them. And while I cannot understand what they've gone through, I know all things can be redeemed in Christ.

Menu Monday

2009-06-22T11:55:00.002-04:00

I'm back in Small town, Virginia after an awesome weekend in Tennessee. I came home to a clean house, thanks to my wonderful husband's hard work!

Now it's back to work preparing for the week and a camp trip that leaves on Friday...so excited! So to help me feel organized, here's my list of what's on the menu for dinner this week.

- Portobella mushroom burger with roasted red peppers.

- Spring chicken roll-ups (ham, provolone, and asparagus) and Lemon Dijon pan sauce.

- Spinach Artichoke penne

- Salmon cakes with garlic roasted potatoes

- Chicken and Kielbasa rice

I'm quite sure this will be a busy week with much fund-raising left to do before camp, so I'll have to plan my time well to get all these meals made :)

Asking forgiveness

2009-06-19T07:18:00.003-04:00

Please forgive me for my lack of good blogging lately. I've run dry. Life has not been giving me the ample Friends references I'm used to. Nor have a taken many pictures.

But I hope it will all soon change as we are leaving for a weekend at home. We'll be visiting D-focus friends, hanging out with my fam, seeing old friends again, and going to a wedding.

So here's to good material after our weekend away!!

Relationships

2009-06-17T13:37:00.005-04:00

I don't know what to do with a lot of relationships in my life right now.

Relationships have always been in a struggle for me.

There was the one in high school where I just couldn't take it anymore, I'd had enough. Too much backstabbing and manipulating. I cut off all ties. I didn't do it in a nice way and I regret a lot of it now, but still it was good for me. Some really great friendships came out of that decision.

Then in college, it took me a while, but I found eventually found friends I could be real with. I really treasured them. I pictured their faces next to me at my wedding--way in the future at that point. But then something changed. I'm not sure what. Those friendships seemed to evaporate overnight. Once again (can you see a trend??), I didn't handle it well. I tried, but it was all so complicated for reasons I still unknown to me. But out of the 'death' of those friendships, came even more beautiful ones that are still so dear to me.

Life after college...I figured my history with messy relationships would cease. But no such luck. I stepped right into a pile of complete crap, in terms of relationships. I usually feel like I can read people well, but I was fooled. I took the bait hook, line and sinker. It was a mess. I was in a new job, new town, new life and absolutely nothing made sense. I was dealing with stuff way over my head with roots far too deep.

Well, its been almost a full year since I put an end to it all, but I'm still dealing with the repercussions. Even from hundreds of miles away the misrepresentations and manipulations continue.

But when their tentacles reach back out, with the hidden promise of more deceit, how do I professionally and personally decline?? I want to be loving, kind, respectful, and compassionate without getting sucked back in. For now, I'm resolved to let it be; refuse contact, let the scars heal, and let the remains move on.

Cleaning...

2009-06-15T13:42:00.005-04:00

Maybe I'm the only one...but I struggle with keeping my house clean. I just plain dislike cleaning! It feels like as soon as I get the house picked up, it just gets messy again.

But I loathe having people over when the house is mess, like I would rather go way out of my way to meet someone than have them see my house a wreck. My cleaning situation usually leaves me frantically trying to clean before someone comes by...and when I'm frantic, I'm just not fun to be around. Just ask my husband!

I've always wanted to have the house that is always open for people to stop by. I want people my house to be cozy and welcoming. Cleaning is probably an important part in this!

So I guess I need to remedy this problem that has now become a habit. I'm working on it.

But please have patience with me if you're interested in just stopping by. I'll probably be in a cleaning frenzy :)

Senior trip

2009-06-14T16:48:00.007-04:00

Being from Tennessee, most my high school peers' spring break or senior trip escapades happened at Panama City Beach. It was the place to go. But my group of very classy friends decided we wanted something a little less trashy but just a cheap as PCB. So in a moment of sheer brilliance, we choose to go to Myrtle Beach in South Carolina...In our defense, only a few had ever been there before on family va-cay, and they stayed in North Myrtle!

So a couple weeks after graduation, 10 girls pack-up three cars and headed to the beach. And to our utter surprise, we arrive to find Gatlinburg on the beach...great. It's then we realize we've traded the clear blue waters and white sand beaches of the Gulf for the dingy water and dirty sand of Myrtle beach.

Our efforts to suck it up and have fun were washed away by a week of rainy weather, cramped rooms of five girls, and bad Lifetime movies.

We left a day early. And have never taken a long trip together since!

I tried to warn my high school girls that beach week's not all it's cracked up to be. But now I'm just praying for safety. May they make good decisions and healthy choices this week.

My Summer Face

2009-06-12T23:37:00.004-04:00

I love when I finally get to the point where I'm tan enough (aka not pasty white, where I blind everyone with the sheen from my face) to leave the foundation, blush, eyeliner, and eye shadow behind and simply go out of the house with only a little concealer, bronzer and some mascara. It's a glorious feeling. So freeing. I love summer for this!

P.S. I saw a great mullet tonight at a high school graduation. It was truly fabulous...well maintained on the top and long flowing curls in the back. Beautiful!

I also sat next to a mother and daughter duo with no teeth. None.

Welcome to Rural County, Virginia!

For the love of Mullets

2009-06-11T10:44:00.006-04:00

I really did not see a lot of mullets growing up. My husband says we were in the 'ritzy' part of East Tennessee (is that possible??)!

But my stint working at Dollywood introduced me to the wonderful glory that is the mullet. Yes, you read that right, I did work at Dollywood. I actually worked there for two summers doing college. Need proof??

I'm the one looking hot in the red dress (which is actually my 1880s bathing suit!)

Anyway, back to mullets. I'd never seen so many mullets until working there. I mean, people came out of the wood works to enjoy some Dollywood fun.

There were about 40 of us working there together, and mullets were often the highlight of our day. We made up hand signals to silently warn everyone of an upcoming mullet. We shared good mullet sightings after work--The best sightings were always the mullet families where every member sported the do. And on our days off we would often go to the park and take pictures of ourselves with a great mullet in the background.

All of these lovely memories came flooding back while on my 'run' today. I was on my usual route that takes me by all my favorite houses, and what do I see?? Yup, you guessed it, a fantastic mullet! It's the first I've seen in Small Town, Virginia!

This said mullet resided on the head of a lawn care worker. I should have paid more attention to the company name on the side of the truck that way I could hire my mullet friend to do some lawn work at my home whilst I marvel at he's glorious hair. Oh well...better luck next time I guess!

26 Things

2009-06-09T12:56:00.004-04:00

I love about my husband on his 26th birthday

26. The way he takes charge when we travel

25. His baby blue eyes

24. His hair--it can be long or short but either way he pulls it off

23. The way he can talk to anyone

22. His work ethic...its ridiculous!

21. The way he gets hooked on projects

20. His love of a good deal on outdoors stuff

19. His excitement to help others

18. The way he can push himself beyond natural limits--he's run a 1/2 marathon without even training!

17. The way he can blame any memory loss on one of his many concussions

16. His absolute love of ice cream--he'll eat a half-gallon in one sitting!

15. His morning personness (I make up words sometimes)

14. His stubbornness when getting a job done--He doesn't quit for anything!

13. The way he is willing to try new things

12. His love for his beat-up truck 'Black Beauty'

11. The way he kisses me every morning before work at 6 am

10. His love of fires--He would sit by one every day if he could

9. His obsessive nature--When he gets hooked on something, it takes a long time for him to let it go!

8. His hugs. They're really good :)

7. The way can he sleep through absolutely anything!

6. The way he can wear out any shoe--anyone ever broken a Chaco sandal?? Cause my man can!

5. The way he smells after a shower

4. The way he refuses to use recipes when he cooks--pancakes and cookies are never the same

3. His willingness to do the behind the scenes stuff

2. The way he loves me

1. His servant heart

Unexpected Things

2009-06-08T17:58:00.005-04:00

These are things I did not expect this weekend...

I did not expect to love Boulder so much. I loved everything about it. The houses, the flowers, the shopping, the food, the sunny weather sans humidity, and the gorgeous view from campus.

I did not expect there to be a farter at the reception. Maybe that's too much information, and if it is you might want to stop reading now. But some horrible, nose-burning smells began wafting our way during dinner. We hoped it wasn't one of our friends with a leaking problem, and thankfully it turned out to be the man in the yellow shirt and black vest. He succeeded in clearing our table and the dance floor a couple of times. It was bad!

I also did not expect to see dancing the reminded me of my 'glory days' at Cotton Eyed Joes in high school. I don't think I could conjure up those moves anymore even if I wanted to!

And speaking of high school, I did not expect to run into our good friend from high school at the bar we went to after the reception. It was a great surprise! We really have a great group that still keeps in touch so to add this friend to the mix made it even more fun.

I didn't expect our connecting plane from Chicago to Small Town, Virgina to be so tiny. I've been on some small plans before but wow! It was a total of three seats per row!

And finally I did not expect tidal wave of humidity to hit me as we climbed (yes we used the plane's stairs!) off...

Oh Colorado, how I miss thee!

Can I move to Boulder??

2009-06-07T22:04:00.001-04:00

This weekend we were in Boulder, Colorado for a wedding. Everything was absolutely beautiful: the weather, the bride, spending time with friends. I loved it all!

I loved it so much that I've probably asked my husband a million times already if we can move there.

So here are my top 10 reasons to move to Boulder...

10. It's close to a major airport

9. Still has a small town feel but ranks 11th biggest city in Colorado

8. Family/Young married couples friendly

7. Everyone in this town is so active. Biking, running, hiking...my husband would love this!

6. Beautiful scenery and distinct seasons

5. It's a college town

4. Great shopping and tons of tasty restaurants

3. 300 days of sun a year!

2. Pearl Street...so fun!

1. And finally, my hair loves Colorado. Lack of humidity = amazing!

FRIENDS Moment Friday

2009-06-05T08:51:00.003-04:00

We just had our area's 5th annual golf tournament yesterday. And while I know absolutely nothing about this game, I think it was a success. I love the golf tournament because it's the one event where I have no responsibility. It's kinda nice to just show up and do what I'm told.

Last year my husband took a day off of work to play. That was a mistake. Here I am, the 'director,' and my husband is going through the water traps collecting lost golf balls. Great. So when he couldn't make it this year, I wasn't too upset :)

Looking back, I really don't think anyone noticed, cared or looked at me differently because of his ever present need to be thrifty. But at the time I was embarrassed.

There's an episode of Friends where Rachel is embarrassed by her friends. The company she worked for was holding a charity auction. And wanting to look good in front of her boss, she brought Joey and Phoebe along. As I'm sure you can guess, they end up embarrassing her...enjoy!

The One with the Proposal - Part 1 (As seen in Season 6, episode 24)

Scene: The Charity Event, Mr. Thompson is announcing the winners of the silent auction.

Mr. Thompson: Our next item is the romantic trip to Paris. (Pause.) It goes to Emil Alexander high a high bid of 2,300.

Rachel: Ugh! So close!

(Phoebe returns a with a tray full of different kinds of drinks.)

Phoebe: Hey you guys! Look!

Joey: Hey!

Phoebe: I got me some drinks!

Rachel: What are you doing?

Phoebe: Open bar!

Rachel: Well now it’s an empty bar.

Phoebe: You just can’t stand anyone else enjoying themselves can’t you?

Mr. Thompson: And finally, our biggest item of the night, the 22-foot gentleman’s day sailer sailboat. The winning bid was a whooping $20,000! (Joey suddenly gets excited.)

Joey: I won! That was my guess!

Rachel: What?! What?! What?!

Joey: I guessed 20,000!

Rachel: Joey! It is an auction! You don’t guess, you buy!

Joey: What?! I don’t have 20,000!

Mr. Thompson: Congratulations on your new boat, Joey Tribbiani!!

(Everyone applauds and he stands up slowly.)

Rachel: Joey! Sit down! (Pulls him down.)

Phoebe: Forget her! You enjoy this!! (Pulls him back up and starts applauding again. Joey waves and does a salute.

Scene: The Charity Event, Rachel, Phoebe and Joey are sitting at thier table.

Rachel: What were you thinking?!

Joey: I didn’t know it was an auction!

Rachel: Wh?!

Joey: I figured, take a guess, help a charity, free boat!

Rachel: Why would a charity give away a free boat?!

Joey: I don’t know! Charity?

Rachel: Ugh!

Phoebe: Well, just buy the damn boat! (She’s still working her way through her tray of booze.)

Rachel: Phoebe, don’t you think you’ve had enough to drink?

Phoebe: I’m just helping the kids!

Rachel: How is you drinking helping the kids?

Phoebe: Because the more I drink, the less there is for the kids to drink.

Mr. Thompson: (approaching) Mr. Tribbiani.

Joey: Oh hi!

Mr. Thompson: Your generous contribution brings us a big step closer to building the youth center.

Joey: Just out of curiosity, how-how much is that boat worth?

Mr. Thompson: I think it was valued at 19,000

Joey: (To Rachel) Hey, I was pretty close. (She just glares at him.) Uhh, so bad news. Umm, I can’t buy the boat, I don’t have any money.

(Mr. Thompson looks shocked and at Rachel, she suddenly starts laughing.)

Rachel: Joey! Joey, good one! (Mr. Thompson starts to laugh.)

Mr. Thompson: That’s good. Very good! (Walks away.)

(After he’s left, Rachel stops laughing and glares at Joey again.)

Joey: So uh listen, I think I’m gonna take off now. (Starts to get up.)

Rachel: (stopping him) Hey! You…can’t…leave Joey! You agreed to buy that boat, all right?! That is a contract! And plus if you leave, my boss is gonna kill me!

Joey: Well, what am I gonna do Rach?! I don’t have that kind of money!

Rachel: I know. Okay. (Whispering and thinking.) Okay. Okay. All right. All right, this is what we’re gonna do, we are gonna go to the next highest bidder, and we are just gonna let them buy it, and then you’re just gonna pay the difference.

Joey: Okay.

Rachel: Okay.

Joey: Look, I don’t know why the kids need a youth center anyway! Y’know? They should just watch TV after school like I did and I turned out fine!

Rachel: Not great.

A Weekend Away

2009-06-04T22:32:00.004-04:00

A weekend away by putting down roots featuring Big Star jeans

For your information...

2009-06-03T22:02:00.005-04:00

So I may or may not have been lurking on some new blogs trying to find one to follow, when I found a post all about Dove chocolates. Unfortunately that automatically ruled that blog out--okay maybe not but it did bring out some bitter feelings.

I've been very angry at Dove since February 14, 2006. I know it's a long time to be mad. I know it's crazy that this event has made such an impact that I actually remember the date but it was Valentines Day (excuses, I know!).

You see, my husband and I dated long-distance for most of our relationship. But after close to four years of dating, it was obvious to both of us that we needed to end things. We ended on very good terms, it was a mutual decision, but still my heart was broken.

Only a short time after the break-up Valentines Day rolls around. I'm taking the day in stride. I had prepared myself for it to be difficult. I was doing relatively well until a very well-meaning professor passes out Dove chocolates for the class to enjoy.

As the basket comes around I take one. I open it. And it reads..."Be your own Valentine." Need I say more?? I mean, who puts that on the wrapper of a Valentines candy??

So my boycott of Dove chocolates continues to this day.

Encounter

2009-06-02T23:33:00.008-04:00

I've become complacent with a lot of things in my life. Maybe I'm just don't do well with change, because I've really been struggling with loneliness lately.

Friendships, particularly the day-to-day ones, have not come easily or quickly. More often than not I just feel invisible, between stages of life. I'm not in college anymore--and haven't been for a while even though 75% of the time I mistaken for a college or high school student (which I find more annoying than complementary!)--and I'm not in baby mode yet, but I can't seem to find the comfortable place between the two.

And because it's practically summer and work-life looks different during this time of the year, I've been preparing for next year's leadership. Yay for planning and working ahead! But in this time I've been listening to 'sermons' from Fellowship Bible Church, my former church in college town, Tennessee.

I simply love that church. I love the welcoming people, I love the pastors' transparency , and I love that I am known, really known, by people there. But more than all that I love that I was always fed the Word of God.

One of the biggest struggles we've had since moving to small town, Virginia is finding a church-home. I guess I thought this process would be easy. I guess I thought I would find a church I love and be welcomed in. I guess I thought getting involved in said church would be a quick place to make friends.

So after closing in on two years, I have to ask: Are we just settling?? How long do we stick something out hoping things will change but still having to be fed elsewhere?? Is it okay to leave every week wanting so much more? Or do I just need an attitude change?!

Oh how we want a place where we encounter God in his Word and Spirit and encounter true, genuine relationships.

How do I love Thee

2009-06-01T09:04:00.004-04:00

There is a new love in my life. It was very unexpected. I wasn't prepared, but you can't stop true love...

Moving to small town, Virginia has required many adjustments. And even though August will mark two years with this new zip code, I'm still mourning the loss of the things I've left behind: Relationships from college that have just not survived the distance, restaurants that cannot be replaced, my ability to be a grocery snob (thank goodness I still have Kroger!), and accessibility to great shopping. But I've found something to ease me through the pain. Something that my waistline is not thanking me for....Wade's donuts.

First of all, I have never been a lover of these sweet breakfast treats. Secondly, Wade's is by far the sketchiest grocery store around. If you didn't grow up Here, you probably wouldn't ever shop there. But in my efforts to become a Towny, I buy fresh meat and donuts from this locally-owned grocery store.

Admittedly this was not my first time buying these fresh daily delights. I've always gone for the blueberry (healthier??) cake donuts, but they we were out and we still had a few extra bucks on our grocery budget for the month so I grab a bag of the powdered sugar. My mornings will never be the same :)

And now I need to go for a run...maybe these will be motivation and reward!!

FRIENDS Moment Friday

2009-05-29T09:42:00.006-04:00

So I've been trying to get back into running, and it's some hard work! I'm in the process of building up my endurance, so needless to say there's a lot of walking involved on my "run," along with a good amount of huffing and puffing.

No one would, especially my husband, would describe me as a natural runner or even athletic for that matter. I have the form of a classical ballet-trained dancer running. My feet turnout, I'm not sure to do with my harms--as it was never one of the positions I knew so well, and my back stays tilted forward slightly. All in all, not good runner's form!

And then there's the speed factor. I have none. I'm being serious. Even when I was in my best 'running shape' in college (I wasn't consistent by any means. But I would go on a six-month kick every few years!) speed was never something I could brag about. Have you ever drive by the old man who is running by might as well just be walking cause he's going that slow??...yeah that would be me!

So this Friends Moment is dedicated to Phoebe. Thank you for making my running look 'good.' If you haven't seen this episode, you should. It's great.

The One Where Phoebe Runs (As seen in Season 6, episode 7)

Scene: The Park. Pheobe and Rachel are getting ready to go running.

Phoebe: I have to tie my shoe, so you go ahead, I’ll catch up.

Rachel: Okay. (Runs off.)

Phoebe: Okay. (Starts running crazily with her arms flapping and her legs far apart) Come on! That’s not running! Let’s go! (Rachel pauses, then follows, embarrassed.)

Scene: Central Perk. Rachel, Ross and Monica are there.

Rachel: You guys, I’m telling you, when she runs, she looks like a cross between Kermit The Frog and The Six Million Dollar Man.

Ross: Monica had such a crush on him. Yeah, she used to kiss his poster every night before she went to bed.

Rachel: Oh! I used to do that too!

Monica: Did you also have his album, It’s Not Easy Being Green?

Rachel: Aw, Mon...(Kisses her on the cheek)

Monica: So, Phoebe runs weird huh?

Rachel: Yeah, yeah and you know what, I know she’s gonna wanna run again, I just don’t know how to get out of it, I mean, I live with her.

Monica: Why don’t you just be straight with her? Tell her the truth.

Ross: Yeah.

Rachel: You’re right, you’re right. I should just tell her the truth.

[Phoebe enters]

Phoebe: Hey!

Ross: Hey!

Rachel: Pheebs, Monica tripped me, I don’t think I can ever run again, ever!

Phoebe: Why? Why would you do that?

Monica: I don’t know. Rachel I’m-I’m sorry that I hurt your ankles.

Rachel: Ankle.

Monica: We’ll see.

Oh the drama...

2009-05-28T13:14:00.007-04:00

I forget, probably on purpose, about the drama of high school girls.

Girls can be so mean to each other especially when a boy is in involved. Why do girls choose the loser guy over their friends??

Yesterday, while grabbing dessert with a certain high school girl, I began hearing a story that just bothered me. And of course a guy was at the center of it all. The interactions between three girls and one guy are full of lying, manipulating, and backstabbing one another. I just hate the ways girls treat one another. I hate that sin has such power in our lives that we care more about filling ourselves up and meeting our own needs than putting others first. We give up so much for instant pleasure!

I think I'm especially troubled because I know all three girls involved and hate the way they are treating each other. Guys never were worth fighting over from me and my friends in high schoo! What has happened in the handful of years since I graduated from high school?

Not much has changed except our addresses

and couple of last names!

A little motivation please!

2009-05-27T16:40:00.000-04:00

Sneaky little Rascals

2009-05-26T11:34:00.017-04:00

*Update* My vigil was quickly forgotten, but I just spotted two more groundhogs. This officially brings the count to four...our yard will never be the same :/

...And no, I'm not referring to my high school friends this time!

Something strange is going on in our backyard. We love our backyard. When we finally buy a house a good yard is on the top of our list of importance. We love sitting by our fire-pit, grilling out, and hanging our clothes to dry. And sometime soon we will have a Husband-made picnic table and Adirondack chairs gracing the backyard as well. But we, and by 'we' I really mean me , hate how lumpy our yard is.

For a long time I thought it was from all the stupid Chinese chestnuts that get buried in our yard by annoying squirrels. And then Husband the culprit was the albino skunk he saw--I'm still questioning if we ever had a skunk as I have yet to see it or smell it (which I'm not complaining about). But I now have a new theory. Groundhogs.

I saw a rather large one run through the yard a few days ago. And then just moments ago I caught the little rascals in the act. There were two--maybe three or just a large squirrel--digging in my yard.

Please excuse the poor quality of these pictures!

I am now standing vigil waiting for their return so I can gather more proof.

On another note...forget the usual signs that summer is just around the corner. Just look at my legs, or whole body for that matter, and they will tell you of the approaching season as I have mosquito bites everywhere! So should you see my legs anytime in the nearish future, please ignore the scabs that I have now developed from scratching so much. And while you're at it, will you also ignore the pastiness too?? These legs need some sun!

Safety Gear Needed

2009-05-25T20:39:00.003-04:00

The scene: Bisset Park on Memorial day.
The people: 25 of our closest high school friends and leaders
The attention grabber: A 100ft hose, a large black tarp, 6 cation cones, and lots of dish soap
Equals: A ton of soapy fun and a crowd of onlookers.

When you see 20 high school kids show up at a park do you get nervous? Cause I'm pretty sure we made some parents fear for their children's safety tonight.

And let the games begin...

This was the safest game we played all night!

So if you see us out at a park near you (because we'll definitely be doing this again!) have no fear. We are well behaved, well as much as high school and college kids can be, and just having some good 'harmless' fun!

A Simple Sunday

2009-05-24T20:37:00.001-04:00

Should you come into money...

2009-05-23T15:24:00.006-04:00

and find yourself wanting to buy me something, I have a few ideas :)

Spring :) by putting down roots featuring Anthropologie

FRIENDS Moment Friday

2009-05-22T09:28:00.010-04:00

This week I've been moving into a fabulous new office. My landlord made a new office especially for me. I now have two windows (that are low enough to see out of!), hard wood floors, exposed brick walls, and beautiful high ceilings with drop-down lighting. The downside of getting a new office is the moving process. And oh what a process it was!

I never went through the closest and stuff left over from the previous director. It was such a crazy time that I simply boxed a few things up and moved my stuff in. So needless to say, the office was an absolute disaster in the midst of this process. I'm left amazed and the amount of stuff that one collects in this job!

I did much of this move by myself but I did need some help with the heavy stuff...You know, the couches, ridiculously heavy book selves, my desk and chairs, and the mini-fridge. While moving is definitely not fave, Friends references did make it more fun :)

So this Friends Friday is dedicated to my movers. Ben and Cody. Scene:

The One with the Cop (As seen in season 5, episode 16)

The lobby of Ross's building, he's sitting on the couch at hte bottom of the stairs, and he's practicing enticing women to join him on the couch.

Ross: Come here to me. No-no, you come here to me.
Rachel: (entering) Hey Ross! I brought reinforcements.
Ross: Oh great! What, you brought Joey?
Rachel: Well, I brought the next best thing.
Chandler: (entering) Hey!
Ross: Chandler?! You brought Chandler?! The next best thing would be Monica!
Chandler: Y’know, I would be offended, but Monica is freakishly strong, so...
Ross: Look, I-I drew a sketch about how we’re gonna do it. (Showing them) Okay Rach, (points to the sketch) that’s you. That’s the couch. (Points again.)
Rachel: Whoa-oh, what’s-what’s that? (Points.)
Ross: Oh, that’s me.
Rachel: Wow! You certainly think a lot of yourself.
Ross: No! That’s-that’s my arm!
Chandler: (looking at the sketch) Oh, I see. I thought you just really, really liked your new couch.
Ross: Y’know what? Just-just follow my lead.
(Chandler and Ross head for opposite ends of the couch.)
Rachel: Okay!
Chandler: Okay.
Ross: Come on, Chandler.
(They pick up the couch and after throwing off the last pillow; Rachel helps out on Chandler’s end.)
Ross: All right. (They start up the stairs. Ross is first.) Okay, here we go!
(Chandler has moved forward and is now underneath the couch as it heads up the first set of stairs.)
Ross: All right, ready?
Chandler: Yeah.
Ross: Turn.
Chandler: (straining) Okay.
Ross: Turn! Turn!
(As they turn the couch, Chandler gets sandwiched between the railing and the couch.)
Chandler: Okay, I don’t think we can turn anymore!
Rachel: Ross, I don’t, I just don’t think it’s going to fit.
Ross: Oh yeah it will! Come on, up! Up-up-up! Up! Yes! Here we go! Pivot! (They start up the stairs again. Chandler is between the couch and the wall now.) Pivot! Piv-ot! Piv-et!! Piv-ett!!! Piv-et!
Chandler: Shut up! Shut up! Shut up!!
(They set the couch down.)
Ross: Okay, I don’t think it’s going to pivot anymore.
Chandler and Rachel: You think?!
Ross: All right, let’s uh, let’s bring it back down and-and try again.
(As they start back down the couch drops a little bit and gets jammed. They try to free it to no avail.)
Chandler: Okay, yeah, I think it’s really stuck now.
Ross: I can’t believe that didn’t work!
Rachel: I know, me neither! I mean, you had a sketch!
Chandler: Oh, y’know, what did you mean when you said pivot?

Equal Rights

2009-05-20T22:20:00.009-04:00

Warning: this is coming from a woman with extreme late night cravings!

There are some things that automatically remind me of childhood -- hot pavement on bare feet, the smell of sunscreen and a wet bathing suit, and the gooey, sugary goodness of Laffy Taffy, the delightfully soft taffy bars that come equipped with jokes for hours of entertainment, on a hot summer's day.

But as of recently these childhood memories have come into question. Many times I've bought the large bags of candy containing Laffy Taffy in bite size. Each time I'm hoping for the nostalgic and familiar taste of my childhood but instead find something bland and devoid of the tangy flavor I remember.

Many enjoy the flavor-lacking taste of mini taffies. I get it, they're individually wrapped packages are convenient. Multiple flavors can be consumed in one sitting, and you get twice as many cheesy jokes. But I believe in equal opportunity for all candy. Regular sized Laffy Taffy deserves to have the same frequency of self space.

I've had to search long and hard to find these wonderful full-size treats. All I'm asking for equal treatment. My childhood memories will thank you. So stores near me, please bring on the Sparkle Jerry Cherry, Wally Watermelon, Jazzberry Blue Raspberry, and Sammy Strawberry. I will be forever grateful.

Friends reference insert: Phoebe's first experience with taffy (albeit it's salt water taffy). Enjoy :)

The One with the Birthing Video (Season 8, episode 15)

Scene: Central Perk. Ross and Phoebe are sitting on the couch.

Phoebe: How could you not tell Mona that Rachel is living with you?

Ross: I don’t know, she seemed to think it was such a crazy idea! Um, plus, she, uh, she got me taffy!

Phoebe: Taffy, really? I’ve never had any.

Ross: Ever?!

Phoebe: Well, I think my mother was too busy planning her suicide to provide saltwater treats. (Ross hands her one) Thank you! So what, you’re just never going to tell her?

Ross: Oh, no, no, no, I will! I just want to butter her up, first! You know, I’m going to take her to an amazing Valentine’s dinner. Do all this romantic stuff, and then, just when she thinks I’m the best boyfriend in the world, then I’m going to tell her that my pregnant ex-girlfriend is living with me.

Phoebe: If I haven’t said it before: she’s a lucky, lucky lady! So, where are you going to—what the mother of crap is up with this stuff? (Referring to the taffy, which she’s been chewing this whole time.) Oh, God. Is it gum, is it food? What’s the deal? (she swallows it, finally) Oh, it’s nice! May I try a pink one?

Things A Husband Shouldn't Say

2009-05-19T13:23:00.003-04:00

I'd been out of town for a couple days on some work related trips, and upon returning yesterday a certain someone had some confessing to do.

After work yesterday my husband had somethings going on and then had plans to eat dinner with some friends of ours. This was a great seeing as I had plans with many high school friends involving a huge tarp, water, soap, and craziness. But thanks to the much too cool weather, those plans had to be changed. I used the extra time to have dinner with some friends, clean the kitchen, and then catch-up on blogs I'd missed.

While enjoying a few blogs, Husband bursts through the front door baring packages. A little confused, I stop my stalking to figure out what has shown up on our doorstep.

The first words out of Husband's mouth are, "Don't be mad, but..." FYI: not a good way to start any conversation over large packages. So happy birthday a few weeks early, honey. And you probably shouldn't expect much else!

But it should be noted that during his online shopping spree he did remember to buy a little something for me as well...He does know how to make me go easier on him :)

A Long Time Gone

2009-05-18T22:06:00.000-04:00

Have no fear my ten readers...I'm back. Its been a long couple of days without Internet. But I've returned to stay for a week of sorting, throwing away, and moving the area office to its newly renovated place upstairs. Sounds like fun, I know.

Upon returning today I learned of the frost advisory for our valley...excuse me weather, you must not have gotten the memo that it's now the middle of May, and we had great plans that you've now ruined. So I would appreciate clear skies and warm weather for next week. Thank you in advance.

FRIENDS Moment Friday

2009-05-15T21:48:00.010-04:00

I love when you get to that magical place with a group of people where you can just relax and can be completely real with another. Real meaning the freedom to be vulnerable without fear of being judged. It's magic because those connections cannot be produced or faked.

I really never thought I'd experience that magic outside my group of friends from high school, but about twice a month for the past year I've experienced that magic again with a great group of friends. Our intern training car :) It's been a crazy year with these friends. We've laughed and cried together. We've vented and encouraged one another. We have inside jokes, cuddle buddies, massage trains in cramped cars, and crazy conversations. We are a group of friends. And I will truly miss our times together in the car driving to and from training on Fridays.

Our group...minus Steve

"Smile and say..."

So I dedicate this Friends Friday to you...Stacy, Steph, John, Colt, and Steve, who rounds this crazy group out (and now that all of you know about this blog you better be reading it!).

So in honor of our trip to Sandbridge and time in the car, I give this to you...

The One at the Beach (As seen in session 3, epidsode 25)

Scene: Outside Central Perk, Chandler and Monica are waiting for Phoebe to arrive with the cab.

(Phoebe drives up.)

Chandler, Monica, and Joey: Hey!!

Joey: Woo-hoo! All right! Yeah!

Phoebe: Oh, I am having the best karma this week. First, I find this woman who knew my parents, and then my client with the fuzzy back gives me his beach house.

Ross: Yeah? What about ah, that bike messenger you hit?

Phoebe: Oh, I wasn’t talking about his karma.

Rachel: (approaching) Hey!

Chandler: Hey!

Joey: Hey-hey, check out the hat!

(She is wearing this giant straw hat, the brim on it must be at least, least foot wide.)

Chandler: Wait a minute, I know that hat! I was taken aboard that hat! They did experiments on me! I can’t have children!!

Monica: Seriously, where did you get the hat?

Rachel: Ross gave it to me.

Ross: Yeah, I think she looks good.

Rachel: Ohh, thank you.

Chandler: Buy it for ya, or win it for ya?

Rachel: Well excuse me, my fashion-impaired friends, I am here to tell you that hats are back.

Phoebe: And this time, they’ve ganged up to form one giant, super hat.

Scene: At the Beach, it’s raining cats and dogs as the gang arrives. Chandler and Monica are taking shelter under Rachel’s hat.

Ross: Go, go, go!

Rachel: Oh yeah, now everybody wants to be under this hat!

(They get inside and notice on small problem.)

Phoebe: Oy!!

Monica: What’s with all this sand? (picking a handful of sand off of the floor, which is covered in sand)

Phoebe: Oh, yeah, Bob said there might be flood damage.

With Abandon

2009-05-13T13:44:00.006-04:00

Sometimes I'm not good at showing emotion correctly. I've never been one of those girls who shrieks and giggles with excitement over a surprise. I am not overly outgoing. I don't like being put on the spot or the center of attention unexpectedly. And sometimes insecurities just get the best of me and I simply don't react with the excitement I should.

I'm like this concerning God too. He is worthy to be praised. But too often I hold back. I don't want to be seen as the 'religious' or 'overly spiritual' one so I hold back. I do it with adults, peers, and high school friends alike.

I love the rare moments when I hold nothing back in my praise of Him. Those moments which are of overflowing joy and gladness. After my first senior year of college (yeah I unexpectedly had two senior years!) I made a last minute decision, flew to California, and volunteered at a camp for a month.

One night stands out specifically. God had been doing a lot of work in me over my time in Cali. And one night my dear friends and I were in the club room and suddenly we broke out dancing with abandon. Dancing to praise Him. It's one of my favorite memories. I felt amazingly free and alive in those moments.

He has restored and redeemed me.

He is faithful and trustworthy.

He is enough.

My dear friends who live so far yet love so much :)

Mayberry

2009-05-12T22:34:00.008-04:00

Have I lost my ability to be organized or was a just never as organized as I thought I was?? Lately I've just been having a hard time getting stuff done. I always have a long, but very manageable, to-do list and yet I'm rarely able to accomplish the majority of things. Where does the time go? Does it speed-up as you get older and no one told me? Goodness, in sophomore English (of high school) I was so on top of things I even turned my papers in early! The last two papers I've written have been at least a day late.

Now that our small town university is out for the summer, my schedule has changed significantly and I'm having a hard time being productive. How is it the more time I have, the less I get done!

Well I miss Mayberry

Sittin' on the porch drinking ice cold Cherry Coke

Where everything is black and white

Pickin' on a Six String

Where people pass by and you call them by their first name

Watching the clouds roll bye

Bye Bye

Will it ever just be simple again??

Who has time to work

2009-05-11T21:35:00.003-04:00

when I do this all day? I mean seriously!!

Can it be my birthday again?

Mile Stones

2009-05-09T21:51:00.014-04:00

Today was the type of Saturday I simply love. Sleeping-in with my hubby, hanging around in pajamas for a few hours (probably catching up on blogs!), getting stuff done around the house, and finally by mid-afternoon ready for the 'day' to start. Perfection!

And today we had a lot of perfection plus lots to look forward to. Many of our leaders graduated from college today. Congrats! Two years ago, on a day very similar to today, I graduated from college. It was an exciting yet scary time in my life. So many unknowns but so many hopes for the future :)

Me and my great friends Emily and Krista on our graduation day!

I'm so glad we had the opportunity to celebrate this milestone with our friends today. It's a great achievement and I'm proud of all the graduates. Thanks for sharing your day with us!

Here's a glimpse into our day.

Beautiful girls. Beautiful picture.

Enjoying :)

Thank you Lee and fam for inviting us to witness this amazing view!

FRIENDS moment Friday

2009-05-08T16:21:00.008-04:00

Many bloggers share tasty recipes, I will not be one of those. While I LOVE great food, I have yet to develop the skills of a great cook. Thankfully for me, my husband will eat anything.

But what I do have to share is a great Friends moment! While at the grocery store yesterday I picked up some Kraft Macaroni and Cheese. While I would not call this great food, it is easy and quick to make :) Well today, in a crunch to come up with something for lunch (because I was really craving fast-food!) I grabbed one of those boxes. And in a moment of genius and in honor of Chandler, I added cut-up hot dogs to that cheesy goodness. While maybe not the best meal, it sure hit the spot. So thanks Monica for taking care of your husband the way I do!

The One with Unagi (As seen in season 6, episode 17)

Scene: Monica and Chandler's, Monica is getting ready for Chandler's arrival. He enters and finds the place lit with candles and dinner on the table.

Chandler: Oh my good God.

Monica: Hey! Continuing the countdown of your favorite meals. Tonight, No. 3, macaroni and cheese with cut up hot dogs.

Chandler: Look, you have done enough! Okay? You have to stop this now.

Monica: I will! But not tonight. For dinner music, I thought we could listen to that tape you made me.

Chandler: Oh, the mixed tape.

(Monica pushes play and The Way You Look Tonight starts to play.)

Monica: The Way You Look Tonight is on here! Dance with me?

(He hesitates, then goes over to dance with her.)

Monica: You are just the sweetest. (They kiss.)

(Suddenly, a strange and familiar voice comes out of the tape player. Here’s a hint, OH…MY…GAWD!! That’s right, it’s Janice!)

Janice: I love the way you look every night Chandler! (Monica breaks the kiss and Chandler freezes in terror.) That’s why I made you this tape! Happy Birthday! Love Janice!

Chandler: No! You’re the sweetest! (He tries to kiss her but Monica backs away with a look that could kill on her face.)

Crabgrass

2009-05-07T17:40:00.012-04:00

I don't know how many people are lucky enough to have crab grass growing all through their yard and flower beds, but I sure am. Have you ever tried to get that junk out?! It's roots are CRAZY!

I remember soon after moving into our current home, one of our sweet committee ladies came over to welcome us to the 'neighborhood.' I was showing her our yard as she named the types of plants and flowers that would soon be blooming. And then she spotted it... crabgrass. I knew it couldn't be good by the face she made. She look sorry for us since I had already described some of the things we were planning to do in the yard. She knew what I did not, crabgrass is practically impossible to get rid of. Just when you think you've pulled it all up, you find the crazy root system that twists and turns its way inches underground. Oh the time I've already spent this Spring trying to rip out the roots before they over take our landscaping.

"Each crabgrass plant has the potential of producing upwards of 10,000 seeds, which can lay dormant in the soil for many years. Therefore, once a lawn develops a crabgrass problem, preemergent crabgrass control should be considered thereafter."

I share all this to say, I want my roots in Christ to be as incredibly deep and intricate as the crabgrass is in our lawn. So many changes have taken place in the past 2ish years. And so often I've been in survival mode and not taken care of myself the way I should. So I pray I will become more and more rooted and established in Him. Let me be more like crabgrass!

The Other Men in my Life

2009-05-06T20:58:00.009-04:00

I've only done a couple of really bold things in my life, and one of them was during my senior year of college. After one day of student teaching, I changed my major. It was a move that absolutely no one expected. I shocked everyone with my seemingly rash decision. But it was through this I began a relationship that still greatly impacts my life today. No it's not with my husband...I already knew him! But January 2006 was the beginning of my love of news and a couple of good-looking men :)

Thank you Matt and Brian for the company you've provided over the years. You've never thought less of me even though you've seen me at my worst. You're dependable, always on time, and always know when to leave. Those are things I admire and aspire to be better at. And thanks for the boundaries you men have put in place (the television screen) to protect me and my marriage. My husband thanks you for that too ;)

Vandalizing gone wrong

2009-05-04T09:44:00.009-04:00

I'm usually a really good sport for anything my high school girls suggest or do on their late-night excursions. I've woken up to forks in the yard, frosted flakes on the front walk-way, a newly washed car covered in window paint, and multiple ding-dong ditches. I've handled random drop-ins, a break-in and photo-op in my old basement, and my current basement being turned into a skating rink. Most of those have been fun or at least gotten a laugh out of me.

Last night was the exception...It's 10 pm and my husband is already asleep. I've decided to start the week off right by going to bed early too. I'm making my way through the house turning off lights and locking doors. As I pass the front door I remember something I forgot to get out of my car. So I quickly scurry down the front walk. I grab my car's door handle and yank only to discover my finger tips slipping due to an abundance of perfectly-placed petroleum jelly. And I'm immediately angry!

Many phone calls later to the suspected perpetrators and other possible victims, I'm still mad. Instead of calming down I'm just getting more riled up by the one girl who is refusing to answer my phone calls yet continues to text telling me I'm being ridiculous! Am I allowed to call Moms!?! But thankfully the two other girls were nice and eventually apologized while making sure I knew about the Vaseline on my windshield wipers...Ooh goodness.

Confession: I woke up still mad about it this morning!

Give or take a few

2009-05-03T15:49:00.003-04:00

I love the college 'kids' I have the privilege of working with. They aren't your typical college students...they don't party or sleep around. They pay a great sacrifice with their time and money to pour into high schoolers. Most of them do not have time for a part-time job. They expect to pay close to $600 every year to attend camps and training weekends. They give up at least 3 nights a week for club, campaigners and leadership. And this doesn't include all the sporting events they attend! Our leaders are great, and I'm gonna miss them over the summer!

Our leadership...give or take a few :)

FRIENDS moment Friday

2009-05-01T05:34:00.007-04:00

Monica and Chandler, Ross and Rachel, Phoebe and Joey. Awww my friends :) No seriously I consider them my friends. I mean really, I've spent enough time with them to call them my friends.

Our friendship developed during my junior year of college. I had been assigned A LOT of projects...you know the mindless cutting, pasting, and coloring that comes with being an elementary ed major. As projects began piling up and procrastination began setting in, I needed something/someone to keep me entertained despite the tediousness of my work. And since I was in a long distance relationship and none of my friends were devoid of a life of their own, I was forced to make some new friends.

They've stuck by me in good times and in bad. They always know how to make me laugh and take care of me when I'm sick. They're great sleep aids too. So here's to my friends. Let the good times keep coming!

*Friends moment Fridays were inspired by a good friend that put a Friends quote on her FB. So here's the quote that has started it all. "Phoebe. That's P, as in Phoebe, H as in heobe, O as in oebe, E as in ebe, B as in bebe, and E as in...Ello there mate!" Thanks Flash :)

Just small town girls

2009-04-30T21:21:00.022-04:00

Something I've recently learned to appreciate about living in a small town is the art of vandalizing. I mean that in the best way possible. And I also mean when I'm NOT on the receiving end of a lovely late-night vandalizing adventure by my high school friends.

I was sheltered before moving here. No one had shown me the true joys of some good vandalizing. I thought, oh that's what high school kids do when they're bored...lame. I was so wrong!! What could be more fun than running around in the cover of darkness yielding window paint, straws, forks, toilet paper or even aluminum foil. The answer is nothing. And since Virginia is for lovers, I must admit I've become a lover of all things car decorating.

A little car art :)

Girls showing their affection for former leaders

And don't forget the house/apt. makes a great canvas too!

(just make sure they're inside to see the work you've done!)

And my own house...this is just one of many such incidents!

A big thank you goes out to Wal-mart...thanks for staying open at all hours of the night, restalking the essentials regularly, and having a dollar section of party supplies! All of which have made these late-night excursions successful.

My Day Away

2009-04-28T15:30:00.008-04:00

Let me profess my new LOVE for all dogwoods in pink.

These dogwoods do not sit in my yard :( but they are right next door!

Every month I take a day away (a strong "suggestion" by my regional director). And today I enjoyed getting "away" to make back yard. It's been beautiful here for the past few days, and I loved the opportunity to further enjoy it for another day :) So thank you sunshine, Beth Moore, Bible, blue highlighter, colorful pens, nice breeze, comfy blanket and sunglasses.

Time of your life

2009-04-27T22:17:00.016-04:00

Ahhh...the sigh of relief that comes after the last club of the year. But this sigh is mixed with hope and fear. We are sending our soon-to-be graduating high school friends our into a world where they may forget Who they belong to. They will be soon entering a world without curfews and parents checking up on them, a world where almost anything is accepted and often encouraged. But there is a great Hope we have for them.

Great things can happen in college...it is in college that I began to really walk with God. It was in college that I was surrounded by Christians living out their faith. It was in college that I first experienced the beauty of giving my life away, broke for the brokenhearted , and knew the cost of following Christ.

Life...its just hard

2009-04-26T23:18:00.006-04:00

I'm always looking to the next thing believing when I get there then I'll finally be happy with my circumstances or even myself. When did I start believing that easy means good or that happiness equals perfection?? Why can't Jesus just be enough?

I don't have the answer. I struggle daily to allow Jesus to be enough. And daily I fail. I fail in the little stuff and the big stuff. I fail to pick up my cross and follow him, I fail to die to self, and I fail at giving my life away. And yet, each day God's mercies are new. His love me for never runs out even when I doubt and look to other things to fill me. I serve a good God, but he's ways are not my ways. He allows evil and suffering in this world yet uses it for His good plan.

This evening after leadership I sat in a front lawn with a group of sincere college girls all in hopes of sharing our struggles and God's triumphs with a friend's little sister. I hope she heard more than just middle school stinks. I hope she heard that God has redeemed each one of us (those sharing that night) by his grace. The old has gone and the new has come because with Christ we are a new creation! But I hope she also heard that life's just hard. It's hard in middle school, it's hard in high school, it's hard in college, and it's hard in the "real world" too. That's just life...it's hard. It's messy. It's life in a fallen world.

So let me set my eyes on eternal things that are not of this world.

Come on over, Come on over baby

2009-04-25T11:51:00.011-04:00

The lovely warm weather of spring has done something to me. Something that my house and husband are thanking me for...a little spring cleaning! In the past few days I've been getting my clean on....I've gone through closets, exchanged cold-weather clothes for warm ones, done a good cleaning on the bathroom, swept and mopped floors, changed sheets, done numberous loads of laundry, and opened the curtains to watch my husband mow the yard :)

There's something wonderful about Spring. New life, bright colors, and because I work with high school students...Prom! Awww prom. The memories of a perfect night where all my dreams came true--Oh wait that was only in my dreams! Reality of that "perfect" night was quite different than the fantasy. The rush out of the parking lot and to the hair place on a Friday afternoon. The stress of being on time for pictures. The insecurities of comparison. Nope don't miss those things at all! But I guess I can't harp on prom too harshly...it is where it all began for my husband and I!!

Wasn't Me!

2009-04-24T13:40:00.001-04:00

For the sake of being a consistent blogger...these are things I definitely did not do today :)

- I definitely did not sleep in the shirt I wore yesterday and continue to wear it for most of today.

- I definitely did not leave towels outside to dry for over 24 hours simply because I was lazy nor are there still wet clothes in my washer from yesterday.

- I definitely did not scrub all the writing off our front door except the very top because my arm got tired. And it definitely hadn't been there for at least a month.

- I definitely did not practically eat two dinners tonight --once at McDonald's because I had a gift card and then at El Crappo because I never say "no" to Mexican.

There's a first for everything!

2009-04-23T16:26:00.002-04:00

It's time to stop thinking and talking about it...it's time to just do it. To start my blog! Confession: I've been a lurker on a handful of blogs for many months now. It started out innocently enough following people I actually knew...I only wanted to stay connected, but all too quickly it turned into lurking on blogs of strangers. It progressed slowly. I was only following one blog (albeit it took many hours out of many days to catch up!), but then, like an addict, I needed another one....and the cycle began.

I've been quite nervous to start my own blog. I mean what do I really have to talk about?? All the "models" that I've so extensively studied have focused on their kids...and I don't have any so that's out! I haven't recently moved and I'm not going on any exciting adventures that I know of, so I guess it's just gonna be about me with some featured guests, like maybe my husband for example. And when it comes down to it, I don't even know a single person who knows about this blog to read it. Hmmm...well no looking back now! Cause I'm blogging :)

Putting Down Roots

Thoughts and updates

Finding Inspiration

Too hot to be outside...

Life Abundant

Off to camp we go!

River of Life

Dirty Little Secret

Learning to say Goodbye

October Desktop

Messy and Stained

Chestnuts

Immediately

Stolen Shorts

My Gray Bedroom!

New Creation...Reincarnation and FRIENDS Moment Friday

A Hope and A Future

What I Believe In

Fall Inspired

Gray Matters

Obsession Confession

Shaping Up

Marrying Up

For the love of Mexican

Friends Moment Friday

Personality Type

Blog-cation

In all things

Menu Monday

Asking forgiveness

Relationships

Cleaning...

Senior trip

My Summer Face

For the love of Mullets

26 Things

Unexpected Things

Can I move to Boulder??

FRIENDS Moment Friday

Scene: The Charity Event, Rachel, Phoebe and Joey are sitting at thier table.

A Weekend Away

For your information...

Encounter

How do I love Thee

FRIENDS Moment Friday

Scene: The Park. Pheobe and Rachel are getting ready to go running.

Scene: Central Perk. Rachel, Ross and Monica are there.

Oh the drama...

A little motivation please!

Sneaky little Rascals

Safety Gear Needed

A Simple Sunday

Should you come into money...

FRIENDS Moment Friday

The One with the Cop (As seen in season 5, episode 16)

The lobby of Ross's building, he's sitting on the couch at hte bottom of the stairs, and he's practicing enticing women to join him on the couch.

Equal Rights

The One with the Birthing Video (Season 8, episode 15)

Scene: Central Perk. Ross and Phoebe are sitting on the couch.

Things A Husband Shouldn't Say

A Long Time Gone

FRIENDS Moment Friday

Scene: At the Beach, it’s raining cats and dogs as the gang arrives. Chandler and Monica are taking shelter under Rachel’s hat.

Ross: Go, go, go!

With Abandon

Mayberry

Who has time to work

Mile Stones

FRIENDS moment Friday

Crabgrass

The Other Men in my Life

Vandalizing gone wrong

Give or take a few

*FRIENDS* moment Friday

Just small town girls

My Day Away

Time of your life

Life...its just hard

Come on over, Come on over baby

Wasn't Me!

FRIENDS moment Friday