The Derringer Blog

2011-12-23T21:33:00.004-05:00

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace and goodwill towards men.'"

Merry Christmas!!

(Life got ahead of us, and before we knew it, it was December 22nd and I was FINALLY getting around to creating our Christmas card for this year. Because of that, we've decided to do e-cards this year... so please don't be offended when there's not a Christmas card in your mailbox from us this year. We still love and think about you!!)

The Heart of Christmas

2011-12-02T22:06:00.003-05:00

My boss flew into Indy this week for some meetings, and after we finished the last meeting of the day yesterday, he and I were chatting a bit, and the topic of Christmas came up. He said it didn't feel like the Holiday season to him, and I said that I unfortunately had to agree.

For some reason, it just hasn't felt like the typical holiday season for me this year. Maybe it's because we haven't decorated our house yet for Christmas (we didn't decorate at all last year.) Maybe it's because things are so busy between work and photography, I haven't had a chance to even think about the holidays. Maybe it's because it was 60 degrees a few weeks ago - that's not Christmas weather to me! The list could go on and on...

What makes the holidays feel like the holidays? Depending on who you ask, you could get totally different responses: Family, friends, the music, the spirit of the season, shopping for Christmas gifts, the food, the parties and get-togethers, the weather, the decorations, etc...

I work across the street from the largest and busiest shopping mall in Indiana - the shopping is ALL around me! But maybe that's my problem this year? All I see is malls, cars, traffic jams trying to leave work, and did I mention traffic?

I know I've fallen guilty of the Black Friday / Cyber Monday shopping madness this year for Christmas gifts for our nieces and nephews, but Mike and I aren't (and can't afford to) going overboard on gifts - we don't want that to be the focus. We want to bring the focus of Christmas for our family and friends back to Christ.

That made me think of Matthew West's new song "The Heart of Christmas"

"The world’s in a hurry this December

City streets and shopping malls

I wish we could slow down and remember

The meaning of it all"

"You can find it in the warm embrace of your family

Or calling up a long lost friend

You can even find it in the eyes of stranger

When you reach out a helping hand"

You don't need to spend a ton of money to show your family and friends that they are loved. There are so many other ways to show that. God has put on my heart to do something different for Christmas this year. I mean, really, there's no better way to share the Christmas spirit and celebrate Christ's birth, than by showing Christ's love and serving others.

I don't think I could say it any better than Matthew does:

"I'm gonna make a wish this Christmas

I'm gonna say a little prayer

Wherever you are, no matter how far

Come back to the heart, the heart of Christmas

Live while you can, cherish the moment

The ones that you love, make sure they know it

Don’t miss it, the heart of Christmas"

Come back to the heart of Christmas: Put your wants (because come on - do you really need an iPad2) aside and reach out a helping hand to someone who would be thrilled to receive a warm meal, a clean blanket, and a smile. God will reward you.

Our Entertainer

2011-11-19T00:54:00.003-05:00

After a photo shoot with our niece & nephew last weekend, we tried to get a few shots of Riley. You can tell that Mike and I were entertained a whole lot more than Riley was. :-)

Rest

2011-11-11T00:18:00.005-05:00

This past weekend while Mike and I were in heaven... I mean Tennessee... a friend of mine asked how I get my inspiration for what I write about. It always seems like when there's something going on and I've got a lesson to learn from it, God gives me what to write about.

So I've been thinking on what to write about since we got home from TN. So many things to write about. Mike and I had such an amazing time while we were down there. We ate, and ate, and ate (we were in my favorite state - we had to partake in their delicious cooking!) saw some dear friends, hiked, enjoyed God's natural beauty, worshipped with friends, and spent some quality time together. Although we did a lot it seems, mainly we rested.

Mark 6:31 tells us that Jesus said to his apostles "Come off by yourselves; let's take a break and get a little rest." For there was constant coming and going. They didn't even have time to eat. (The Message)

That seems like the story of my life. Constantly coming and going between work, photography, and church. And soon to add to that mix Mike heading back to school. So this past weekend was a weekend to get away from it all and rest. To be together. Just us and God. (And a few friends along the way.) It was perfect.

When was the last time that you shut off the world's distractions and just rested and spent time with God?

...remember me...

2011-10-13T09:48:00.005-04:00

If I'm not listening to one of the two radio stations that I work at, you'll usually find me listening to Country music. (I'm a girl from Indiana who really should be a girl from Tennessee!) This morning was one of those times. As I was scanning the radio dial, it stopped on the local country station just as the tail-end of Carrie Underwood's song "Don't Forget To Remember Me" was playing:

"Tonight I find myself kneeling by the bed to pray
I haven't done this in a while
So I don't know what to say but
Lord, I feel so small sometimes in this big ol' place
Yeah, I know theres more important things, but
Don't forget to remember me
Don't forget to remember me"

At first I thought, "Oh, what a sweet song, she's going to God and singing about praying..." but then it hit me like a ton of bricks. Wait - she's asking God to remember her? Does she not realize that we NEVER need to ask God to remember us? He ALWAYS remembers us. Then that made me think of a cartoon I found yesterday and posted on Facebook:

All too often we are so self-consumed that we fail to stop and realize all that God has already done and will continue to do for us, and that He is constantly thinking about us.

If we flip that song around, how often do you think God sings"Don't forget to remember me" about us?

Reaffirmed Faith

2011-10-05T21:15:00.001-04:00

Ten hours ago, I knew exactly what I was going to write about in my blog tonight. I already had a rough draft written:

"Sunday after church, Mike and I started talking about how God apparently has a plan that's different than what we thought. That lead us into a discussion of how do we know when it's God's plan and not ours? There were two specific things that Mike and I both thought of, that we've been thinking about a LOT lately. But how do we know if that's more of what WE want and our brain tries tricking us into thinking it's what God wants - or if it's really what God wants? The conversation basically came down to this: How do we know when what we're doing is God's plan and not our own? We're both nervous that we are going to do something thinking it's what God has planned for us and it ends up not being that."

But then I got a phone call. I'd heard the sayings before: "That phone call just changed my life" or "It's amazing the difference a few hours can make." Now I get those sayings.

Let me rewind a little bit...

Nearly two years ago, my husband realized that he wasn't happy in his current job and wanted to find a career that would make a difference in someone's life. After a lot of prayer, talking to friends and family, and some job shadowing, Mike decided he wanted to change careers and become a nurse.

After reviewing transcripts from when Mike went to college in Fort Wayne, we found out that a lot of his Gen Ed classes would carry over and that he would only need to take a few new classes before he could apply to the School of Nursing. So Mike registered for classes and took the classes he needed to (plus a few extras to improve his grades from the first time around) and then applied to the Nursing Program at Ivy Tech.

For those of you who don't know my husband, he's one of the smartest, most intelligent, and brightest people I know. (And I'm not just saying that because I'm married to him!) To us, it was going to be a no-brainer for him to be accepted into the full-time program.

Apparently we needed to be humbled a bit: After 3 long months of waiting this past May, we received a letter in the mail from Ivy Tech stating that Mike was not accepted into the nursing program.

WHAT?!?!?!?!!?! (Thats all we could think.) He not only had excellent grades, but the entrance exam he had to take to even apply to the school, he had scored in the 98th percentile for the entire COUNTRY!

For a lot of people, including those who are changing careers mid-career, they would be done with that news. Not Mike. He wasn't going to let that news get him down. So he met with the school to find out why he wasn't accepted and what he could do differently, and ended up retaking two classes this past summer to better improve his overall GPA. And he re-applied.

Mike and I both agreed that no matter what the results were this time, that God had a plan for Mike and we would do whatever that plan was.

We were told that we would find out by the end of September if he was accepted into the school or not. I think by the middle of September I became the annoying wife with my constant questions "Have you heard from Ivy Tech yet?" The last week of September arrived and still nothing. We were both getting nervous. Mike even tried calling the school but only got a recorded message.

This past Friday, Mike had arranged to go out with some friends right after work. So when I arrived home Friday night, I picked up the mail. At the top of the stack was an envelope from Ivy Tech. I called Mike immediately and asked him if he wanted me to open it. He said no. And then I asked him if he was sure, and he said I could go ahead and open it.

I wish I hadn't opened it. I stared at that letter trying to think of what to say to Mike over the phone. How could I tell my husband that Ivy Tech, once again, didn't accept him into the school of nursing. The only thing I could do was cry and say "I'm sorry honey. I'm so sorry." And Mike responded: "OK. It's OK. We'll figure it out. It's OK" I think he took the news better than me at that moment.

He returned home later that evening and we talked. A LOT. It made NO sense. How can they tell a guy who has a 4.0 GPA and scored in the top 98th percentile in the COUNTRY on the entrance exam that he wasn't accepted into their nursing school? What more were they wanting from him?

We had both said and agreed all along that if he didn't get in this time, God must have another plan. It's so much easier to say stuff, then to actually have to face it in reality and deal with it. (That's where this post came from.) Mike told his family the upsetting news, and I told mine. We told our Pastor and friends. We were both heart broken. But we knew God had a plan, and were ready to go along with whatever God had for us.

Mike reached out to Ivy Tech on Monday just to find out (like last time) why he wasn't accepted into the program. The person he spoke with said that the school would have to look into it because he didn't have Mike's records in front of him at that time. They said they would call him back.

Mike hadn't heard back from them this morning, so he called back just to check in. The person he had previously spoken with wasn't there, but was told someone else would call him back. Shortly there after, his cell phone rang, but he was unable to answer it since he was at work. He recognized the number as being from Ivy Tech. As soon as Mike was able, he called Ivy Tech back and found out that the Dean for the School of Nursing was trying to get ahold of him.

(This is where the phrase "A phone call changed my life" comes into play)

Apparently there had been a little mix up (or mis-calculation) with Mike's grades and test scores which resulted in the letter we received last Friday telling Mike he was not accepted into Nursing school. That letter should have never been sent to Mike.

Mike's 4.0 GPA and test scores earned him a seat in the nursing classes that start this coming January.

It's nice to know that Ivy Tech revisited Mike's information after Mike called them, and then admitted to making a mistake. They could have easily ignored the error and moved on. But they didn't and I can't thank them enough.

We never know what God's plans are for us until we're in the middle of them. God knew all along that Mike was going to be accepted into nursing school. He knew that Mike and I would question things. He knew that the little mess up at Ivy Tech would make us re-exam our trust and faith in Him. My faith in God has been reaffirmed this week.

Thank you, God, for that little reminder.

My feet

2011-09-30T20:23:00.003-04:00

I'm currently staring at my feet. Why, you ask?

Do you ever sit back and watch the World happen around you and wonder "God, what are you trying to prepare me for?"

Do you ever wonder why some things happen that just make no sense to you?

Do you ever wish you could get an advance copy of God's playbook? (And yes, for all of you who have texted, tweeted and facebooked me, I am fully aware of the Bible.)

I have this constant battle in my mind with all of those questions.

Whenever I start to wonder about the future, I'm always reminded of Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

I read and understand that in my heart, but then the flesh side of me thinks "WHY DO I HAVE TO WAIT TO KNOW WHAT YOUR PLANS ARE FOR ME AND MY FAMILY?" So I ask people around me for guidance and the typical response is "You need to have Faith."

When I think of Faith, I think of trusting completely and whole-heartedly in God and what he has planned. The Bible defines faith as "being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." (Hebrews 11:1) This is TOUGH. Today's society almost makes a mockery of those of us who truly have faith.

Because I'm constantly struggling with this, I wanted to give myself a constant and permanent reminder to have Faith in God, so I had 2 Corinthians 5:7 tattooed on the tops of my feet: "Walk by faith" on my left foot and "Not by sight" on my right foot.

My faith lets my heart know that God has something amazing planned, and I know everything is happening because of his plans. But tonight, I just need a reminder for my brain that God is in control and to have Faith in his plans for Mike and I.

So I'm staring at my feet.

The Potters Hands

2011-09-07T21:48:00.003-04:00

I volunteer at our church to create the sermon series graphics that are used on Sunday mornings to help illustrate the sermon our Pastors are preaching on. Some series are easier than others to illustrate.

Normally I like to create these graphics in advance so I can have time to get feedback from our Senior Pastor on the graphics. Keyword: Normally. Then this summer happened. I was doing great if I got the graphics done by the Friday night before the sermon. (We have a patient Pastor...)

Our current sermon series at church started on August 28. Around 12:15am on the 28th - mind you that church begins at 11:15a - I remembered I hadn't created the graphics yet. (Did I mention that we have a VERY patient Pastor...) So I ran to the computer and grabbed the sermon calendar our Pastor put together and looked up what he was going to preach on: "The Person God Can Use."

I looked at Mike and ~~asked~~ stated quite loudly "HOW IN THE WORLD AM I GOING TO ILLUSTRATE THIS?!?!" Mike had just returned from his fantasy football draft at our cousin's house down the street, so his mind was still focused on that apparently and said "I donno, but you'll think of it. I know you will" and walked into the other room. I was glad he had the confidence in me because at that very second, I didn't.

So I started thinking... and thinking...and thinking... I was getting nowhere. I was desperate. I HAD to have SOMETHING, and soon! So I prayed.

Editorial Note: Why does it seem like we only go to God when we're desperate or need something, and not on a regular basis?

It's amazing that when we take ourselves out of the picture, and change the focus from "Oh me, oh my... i forgot to create the graphics..." to "Lord, this isn't about me. This is about Your Word being preached and illustrated effectively for others to hear and see and understand" what can happen.

During that prayer, God put this on my heart:

"Who in the world do you think you are to second-guess God? Do you for one moment suppose any of us knows enough to call God into question? Clay doesn't talk back to the fingers that mold it, saying, "Why did you shape me like this?" Isn't it obvious that a potter has a perfect right to shape one lump of clay into a vase for holding flowers and another into a pot for cooking beans? If God needs one style of pottery especially designed to show his angry displeasure and another style carefully crafted to show his glorious goodness, isn't that all right?" - Romans 9:20 (The Message)

God (the Potter) was molding us (the clay) into a person He could use.

And this is the graphic I ended up with: The Potter at the wheel, with the series title in a font to resemble the old punch label machines.

Can God use you? Yep. God can use all of us, in our own - God molded - unique ways.

"...and a little child will lead them."

2011-09-01T16:09:00.002-04:00

Mike and I know a LOT of children - through family, friends, work, church, etc. Each and every one of those kiddos has left a unique impression on our hearts; but a handful of them have left a little something extra. Today I want to tell you about one of those kids: Jacob (Jake)

I first was made aware of Jake this past spring when his Church contacted me at work about helping him with a dream he had. Jake was diagnosed with stage 4 Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma, a very aggressive form of cancer that started in his leg and eventually spread to other areas of his body. Jake's dream was to make sure other sick kids in Indianapolis hospitals had something to cuddle with while at the doctor and hospital. Jake wanted to give all of the kids Pillow Pets and his goal was to collect 1,000 of them.

We (work) agreed to help Jake reach his goal. Through partnering with his church, Central Indiana Applebees locations, and our amazing listners, we were able to surprise Jake earlier this Spring with over 1,000 Pillow Pets. But it didn't stop there.

The Morning Show was so moved by Jake, they wanted to let the entire Country know what Jake had on his heart - and how he, a very sick 7 year old little boy, was making a difference in the lives of other children. Pillow Pets continued to roll in to Jake's church and his house from all over the Country. Jake was featured on a number of different news and media channels. (And we can't forget the power of the internet!) At one point, I knew the donation numbers were over 8,000 Pillow Pets.

Jake was making a difference. A BIG difference.

Children not only in Indianapolis, but Central Indiana and BEYOND were being blessed with cuddly Pillow Pets. Our San Antonio office was also very moved by Jake and started a collection on their own. Through their contacts, the Pillow Pets company was contacted and told about Jake; whom they were VERY familiar with. The Pillow Pets company desired to keep Jake's dream alive and donated nearly 6,500 Pillow Pets to be given to children who were in need. All of this because a 7 year old little boy had a dream of making sure other sick kids had something cuddly to play with.

I'm reminded of one of my favorite scriptures "Don't let anyone look down on you because you're young, but set an example for others in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity." (1 Tim 4:12). Jake didn't let his age stop him. He had a dream, and he met and far exceeded that dream.

Over the past few months, Jake's health started declining. Hospice was called in to his house so he could spend his remaining days with his Mom, Dad, Brother, and Sister. And last night, one of the bravest and strongest little boys I know, recieved his Angel wings.

Jake, if I only had the courage to go after my dreams like you did. You only wanted to make a difference in the lives of other sick children, and you didn't let anything stand in your way. Not even ugly cancer. You've touched more hearts than I think any of us will ever know. You are the bravest little dude ever! Even though we won't see you physically here on Earth, we know we'll see you when God calls us home. And I can't wait to give you the biggest hug when I see you again. Until then, do me a favor? Give Sam and Austin big hugs!

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. There are MANY organizations throughout the Country that come to the aid of children and their families who are battling cancer. I ask that you take some time, and pray for the many sick children who are battling such an ugly disease right now. And also pray continue to pray for those who have beat the disease like Aidan, and Aubrey, and Cooper.

If you'd like to leave a message for Jake's family, you can visit their CaringBridge site: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/jacobmcconahay

Thank you God for Jacob. He was an awesome little boy.

And God said "...and a little child will lead them."

Jake, after meeting Third Day at Riley Children's Hospital this past March.
Photo taken by Carpenter Photography & Design

"Trust Me, and don’t be afraid."

2011-08-23T16:31:00.000-04:00

Last night was just another example of why I love my job, and why we really do need to TRUST God.

K-LOVE held a National contest where listeners could win a FREE private concert in their living room with one of our artists, Chris August. All they had to do was submit a story on why we should pick them to recieve the free concert. We picked 5 winners from across the country, and last night, the first private concert was held in Indianapolis.
Indy’s winner submitted this story:

"Just under two weeks ago, a little 5-year-old girl from our neighborhood was given her wings and became God's newest angel. As we all scrambled together to help the family with food and monetary donations, I couldn't help but want to do more. This family has been on my mind everyday. As soon as I heard this contest on KLOVE, I knew that it was the perfect opportunity to bring a little bit of light back into their lives. Since they are already Christians, having an in-home concert with Chris August would hopefully rejuvenate their purpose of living. As for the rest of the neighborhood, it would be such a wonderful chance to introduce them to our one and only faithful, loving, and living God. This concert would be a great way for our neighborhood to unite with one another, while in the presence of our Lord. The concert would be a tribute to our precious little angel. The families in our neighborhood has been on emotional roller coaster lately. By getting together and having a concert in honor of the little girl would remind the family in mourning that we are constantly supporting, thinking, and praying from them. Most importantly this concert would show the entire community that God will never leave us, even when we are walking through a valley of darkness."

I was a bit nervous going into a home of someone who I had no idea who they were – if it was going to be safe – the type of people, etc… My devotion yesterday morning started with “Trust Me, and don’t be afraid.” I spent yesterday praying that God would just have his hand over the evening and bless those who attended.

These events were initially thought of to be “small, intimate gatherings” in the winners living room. I had talked with the Indy winner before the event and they told me there were inviting some of their neighbors over for the concert, based on her story she submitted. They were expecting maybe 75 people. When I arrived at their house yesterday, I arrived to 100 chairs (donated from a local church) in their side yard and K-LOVE blasting on the speakers. (One of their neighbors is a professional DJ, and had set up his entire sound system for sound.) The family told me they were praying for 75-100 people, but since they only had 5 days to notify their neighbors, it probably wouldn’t happen. When I took the stage to intro the Indy winner (they had a make shift stage set up from a tractor bed) there were around 200-250 people.

I asked the winner to share what she shared with K-LOVE – why she wanted Chris August to come and play at her house. When she finished her story, they invited their neighbors (the parents of the little girl who passed away) to the stage and they let off a bunch of balloons and had a moment of silence for the little girl. Chris then took the stage and instead of opening with one of his more upbeat songs (like he normally does) he opened with his new song “This Side of Heaven.” I don’t think there was a dry eye in the area.

Once Chris started playing, more neighbors started arriving and setting up lawn chairs. By the end of Chris’ set, there were 350 people gathered around. The host family had donation bins laying around the area and ended up collecting $1700 for the family that lost their daughter. (Her dad is unemployed and they had no health insurance when she passed away.)

A lot of the neighbors who ended up showing up were un-churched and had not heard of K-LOVE before. Because of the winner's letter to K-LOVE, we were able to bring Christian music to their neighborhood and help the winner witness to her neighbors in a very unique and powerful way.

And God calmed my nerves by giving us a VERY safe and warm family to work with. I felt like God was saying "HEY YOU! Don't you know by now that I'VE GOT YOUR BACK?!?!"

The winner started her junior year of college this morning and is majoring in non-profit management and has a dream of working at K-LOVE and Air1 someday. I asked her if she would be interested in volunteering with us last night and she started to cry and said she would love to!

Yes - my job has long, crazy hours. (You all remind me quite regularly...) But it's worth every second of it after nights like last night. I was truely blessed last night by watching a small neighborhood, the body of Christ, come together for one family in need. How Awesome is our God!

Chris August talking to the attendees

Part of the crowd gathered to watch Chris perform

On The Mountain

2011-07-14T10:56:00.001-04:00

This morning, I started to read my devotion for today from "Jesus Calling" and came across this paragraph...

"KEEP WALKING with Me along the path I have chose for you. Your desire to live close to Me is a delight to My heart. I could instantly grant you the spiritual riches you desire, but that is not My way for you. Together we will forge a pathway up the high mountain."

As soon as I read the line "...up the high mountain" I immeditaly thought of a song I was introduced to through my job a year ago this fall. One of the local churches we work with held a concert with Christa Wells and one of the songs she sang was "On The Mountain" (You can listen to it by clicking here.)

I used to listen to that song non-stop for months, and then I think I over did it and hadn't listened to it in a LONG time... until yesterday. I was driving home from work and was flipping through my iPhone and came across Christa's name and decided to listen to "On The Mountain" since it had been awhile. I listened to it on repeat, loudly (apologies to anyone who drove past me - I was the crazy chic dancing to the LOUD Praise music) the entire way home.

Little did I know that God would use that song to grab my attention for today's devotion. Yes God, I'm listening...

"Well my hands cannot reach it
And my mind can't comprehend it
But my soul is gonna get there one day"

Spear Throwers

2011-07-12T10:36:00.000-04:00

A dear friend of mine reccomended I read the book "A Tale of Three Kings" by Gene Edwards. I'm half-way through the book right now, but keep going back to one section of the book that has really made me think:

"God has a university. It's a small school. Few enroll, even fewer graduate. Very, very few indeed.
God has this school because He does not have broken men. Instead He has several other types of men. All of these He has in abundance; but broken men, hardly at all. Why are there so few students? Because all who are in this school must suffer much pain.

David did not know what to do when a spear was thrown at him. Nor did he make any spears of his own and throw them. Something was different about David. All he did was dodge. He discovered three things that prevented him from ever being hit.

1. Never learn anything about the fashionable, easily-mastered art of spear throwing.

2. Stay out of the company of all spear throwers.

3. Keep your mouth tightly closed.

In this way, spears will never touch you, even when they pierce your heart.

[An allegorical exchange between Joab and David]
Joab: "Many times he almost speared you to death in his castle. Tonight you had him at the end of his own spear and you did nothing!"

David: "Better he kill me than I learn his ways [and] become as he is. I shall not practice the ways that cause kings to go mad. I will not throw spears, nor will I allow hatred to grow in my heart. I will not avenge. Not now. Not ever!"

Memories of Three Rivers Festival

2011-07-10T22:18:00.000-04:00

Are there memories of your childhood, that everytime you think of them, make you smile inside and out? My brother and I were on the phone yesterday talking about one of those memories: Three Rivers Festival, an annual summer festival in Fort Wayne we went to every year while growing up.

TRF always started with the parade on Saturday. When we were young, Dad would take Brian and I to the parade if Mom had to work on Saturdays. (Brian and I started marching in the parade when we were in H.S and I eventually ended up in the parade with the radio stations I used to worked at.) We'd always go to "A Slice of Summer" when the Old Fort was still the Old Fort (I specifially remember my brother winner a watermelon seed spitting contest at the Slice of Summer); we'd go to Junk Food Alley and eat Monte Cristos from the stand my High School Marching Band used to run, get Lemon Shake-Ups, fried cheese from the Wisconsin Cheese stand and Elephant Ears from the Big Red Barn; we'd go to the big-wheel race, the boat race, the bed race, we'd go back to Junk Food Alley, we'd go to Freiman Square and play in the fountain; and we'd watch the closing night fireworks from downtown wishing the one week of excitement in Fort Wayne could continue all summer.

After talking about the memories of the festival, it made me a bit homesick, so I decided to head up north and spend the day with my brother, sister-in-law, and niece at Three Rivers Festival. (Mike had previous commitments at church today, so he wasn't able to go with me.)

When I arrived at my brothers house, my niece was just waking up from her nap. I walked into her room to get her out of her crib, and when she lifted her head and saw me, she instantly had a giant smile across her face. My heart melted. And when I picked her up she gave me the biggest bear hug. As far as I was concerned, if the day ended right there, I'd be okay because that smile and hug was all I needed.

After getting Addison ready, we piled into my brothers car and went downtown for Three Rivers Festival. We walked around Art in the Park, looked at the sidewalk chalk drawings, walked around Freiman Square, Junk Food Alley (Steph and I got our lemon shake-ups and Brian got his fried Wisconsin Cheese), both sides of Headwaters Park, visisted the site of the Old Fort and saw some of the reenactors, ran into some of my friends from high school (that actually live about 20 minutes away from me in Indy, but it was the first time I'd seen them in almost a year...) and got a nice sunburn. After three hours, we were hot, sweaty, and tired, so we headed back to my brothers house to go swimming and relax.

While Three Rivers Festival isn't quite the same as it was when we were growing up, it's still a memory of mine that I'll always remember. I'm so glad that I was able to revisit and create new memories of Three Rivers Festival with my brother, sister-in-law, and niece today.

Fort Wayne friends: What are your memories of Three Rivers Festival?

A Blur

2011-07-08T23:35:00.002-04:00

If you ask me what I've done the last few months, I'd honestly have to say, "I don't remember..." I look at my calendar and can't believe it's July already. I don't remember May or June - it's all a blur. Sure, I remember the bigger moments and events, but just the everyday stuff is gone. I'm afraid i'm starting to get older. Then I realize I'm turning 30 in less than a month... and I start to have a mini panic attack.

One thing I do remember is being introduced to a new devotional that I'm starting to L.O.V.E. I had actually been given a copy of this devotional months ago by a co-worker, but never touched it. Honestly? I was literally judging a book by it's cover. The cover of this devotional just didn't do it for me - it didn't grab my attention. So I left it sitting on my desk, until last month.

As we started working the first festival this summer, the girls I traveled with had a daily devotion they read, so I started reading it with them. (Technically, I was driving so they read it to me.) I was captivated. The devotion was EXACTLY what I needed to hear at that very second of that very day. After a few days of the devotions hitting the spot, I asked what devotional they were reading and was shocked to hear them say "Jesus Calling" by Sarah Young. GODSMACK. Yes God, I know NEVER to judge a book by its cover again.

There have been a couple of the devotions that have really stuck out to me:

*"YOU ARE MY BELOVED CHILD. I chose you before the foundation of the world, to walk with Me along paths designed uniquely for you. Concentrate on keeping in step with Me, instead of trying to anticipate My plans for you. If you trust that My plans are to prosper you and not to harm you, you can relax and enjoy the present moment.

Your hope and your future are rooted in heaven, where eternal ecstasy awaits you. Nothing can rob you of your inheritance of unimaginable riches and wellbeing. Sometimes I grant you glimpses of your glorious future, to encourage you and spur you on. But your main focus should be staying close to Me. I set the pace in keeping with your needs and My purposes."

**"DRAW NEAR TO ME with a thankful heart, aware that your cup is overflowing with blessings. Gratitude enables you to perceive Me more clearly and to rejoice in our Love-relationship. Nothing can seperate you from My loving Presence! That is the basis of your security. Whenever you start to feel anxious, remind yourself that your security rests in Me alone, amd I am totally trustworthy.

You will never be in control of your life circumstances, but you can relax and trust in My control. Instead of striving for a predictable, safe lifestyle, seek to know Me in greater depth and breadth. I long to make your life a glorious adventure, but you must stop clinging to old ways. I am always doing something new within My beloved ones. Be on the lookout for all that I have prepared for you."

I'm not going to go into detail on why these devotions impacted me the way they did, but just know that God is always on time. And I needed to hear those exact words at the very moment that I did.

While most of May and June are a giant blur, "Jesus Calling" is not - it's been crystal clear.

R.E.S.P.E.C.T

2011-06-08T21:27:00.000-04:00

Today, I witnessed a lot of people showing true respect... and I witnessed a lot of people not showing respect.

One of my very close friend's mother passed away last Friday after a tough battle with cancer and her funeral was today in Fort Wayne. I was able to keep my emotions pretty much in-check throughout the viewing last night and the funeral today, that was, until I drove in the funeral procession.

I was raised and taught that if I was driving next to or past a funeral procession, as a way of respect, you would either pull over (if safe) or at least get out of their way and slow down your speed. Today, as we were leaving the funeral home headed towards the cemetary, the first road we drove on (St Joe Ctr Road) I saw one car pull over or even slow down. Next, we turned onto Clinton, and this time nobody pulled over or slowed down (that I could see.) Once we hit Auburn Road things changed: cars started stopping left and right; we passed a school bus that had come to a complete stop and little kids were all peering out the window; we drove past a van and there was a woman with her arms across her chest like she was saying "I Love You"; we drove past a truck and the driver was saluting; we drove past my niece's school and there were adults standing by the road that were talking - when they realized it was a funeral procession they stopped talking, faced all of the cars and just watched.

Once I witnessed complete strangers, who had no idea who my friend's mother was, showing total respect and honor for her as she was being driven to her final resting place, the tears started flowing.

Romans 12:10 tells us to "Love one another warmly as Christians, and be eager to show respect for one another." (Good News Translation) Is it wrong of me to assume that those who did stop along the way were Christians because of their unspoken love and respect that was shown?

Christian or not, it was comforting to know that some people in Fort Wayne still know and understand respect. If it meant that much to me, I can only imagine what it meant to my friends family.

Rest in peace Kathy.

Sunday Night

2011-06-06T22:42:00.000-04:00

Yesterday evening, Mike and I had a photo shoot up in Noblesville (a make-up shoot due to Mother Nature the night before) so we decided to take Riley (aka Buddy) with us so he could run and play with Mike while I was doing the shoot.

Those of you that know Riley know that when we say "park" the dog goes crazy. (It's comparable to saying "you want some candy" to a little child...) When we get his collar and leash out, he knows he's either going for a walk, to the park, or the pond to swim. The energy out of this dog just appears out of nowhere.

Below are a few pictures that I got of Riley before and after our photo shoot. The dog LOVES to ride in the car and be outside!

Riley was so excited to go, he kept sticking his head out the window waiting for us to leave.
He LOVES to put his head out the window.

Not only does Riley like to put his head out the window, but he likes to put his head out of the sunroof in my car too! (He's OBSESSED with the sunroof!) And for all of my animal welfare friends, NO, Riley was NOT harmed while taking this picture. This was at a stoplight.

Mike and I told Riley that this was the ONE time it was okay for him to lay in the middle of the road. Thats the nice thing about where we were - not a lot of traffic and in the country. LOVE it! (Notice his tongue? It was like this most of the night - hanging out the side of his mouth. Silly puppy!)

A man and his dog walking back towards the car.

A friend of mine that I work with had told me about Potters Bridge, so I couldn't wait to find it. It is awesome. This picture does it NO justice. I can't wait to do a photo shoot here!

Come Awake

2011-04-24T00:52:00.000-04:00

As the video so perfectly puts it: "I'm not sure where you are today, but I know where you could be. You could be a new creation. You could be one with Him again. You could come awake with Christ today."

Mike and I pray you and your family have a Happy Easter.

A cold day of baseball is better than a warm day anywhere else

2011-04-18T20:27:00.000-04:00

It might have been in the high 40s, drizzling and with blowing wind, but I'll take it over almost anything else in this world. The 11-2 victory was just icing on the cake. Thanks to some friends, we were able to score some awesome seats in the club level with all you can eat food. and thanks to Beth's awesome job, we got to see Jeremy Camp who was doing a concert after the game.

The Sanders family with Jeremy

Us with Jeremy

The view from the aforementioned awesome seats

Jay Bruce

Jonny Gomes singles

Votto singles

Stubbs waiting on the pitch

Mr. Red entertaining the fans

Votto smashes a triple to the gap

Leake delivering a pitch

Gomes hits the second of his two home runs

Votto on the tail end of a double play

Inside the club area

The plaque underneath

The bar had signatures of all the Reds greats from their history

A couple from the amazing concert afterwards

I'm listening...

2011-04-15T09:47:00.000-04:00

This week has been pretty interesting - a lot going on. I needed to hear from God that I am following where he's leading me. I've been praying a LOT this week that God would just let me know... and then this Scripture came to mind:

"Don't you know anything? Haven't you been listening?
God doesn't come and go. God lasts.
He's Creator of all you can see or imagine.
He doesn't get tired out, doesn't pause to catch his breath.
And he knows everything, inside and out.
He energizes those who get tired,
gives fresh strength to dropouts.
For even young people tire and drop out,
young folk in their prime stumble and fall.
But those who wait upon God get fresh strength.
They spread their wings and soar like eagles,
They run and don't get tired,
they walk and don't lag behind."
- Isaiah 40:28-40 (The Message)

This says it all. In so many ways. Thank you God.

My Furry BFF

2011-04-11T23:02:00.000-04:00

It's hard for me to believe that Catie Mae is 11 years old. This little lady has been my side-kick in life for the last 10 1/2 years, and it freaks me out knowing that someday she won't be by my side. We've been through it all together: College, boys, break-ups, graduation, the first "real" job outside of college, family stuff, moving to our first apartment, Mike and I's wedding, moving again, and again... she's done it all.

She may not have the energy that Riley does, but she sure does have the love. I swear this dog can sense the moment I walk in the door if I've had a good day or bad. No matter what, she's waiting with eager eyes and puppy kisses for me. (Mike and I call her kisses "Little Puppy Kisses" compared to Riley's big 'ol slobbery ones!)

Catie Mae has so many nick-names, it's a miracle she knows to respond to her own name. (Mike would even argue that sometimes!) Catie, Caters, CM, Baby Girl, and a few other choice names Mike calls her when she's not behaving... but my favorite for her? My Furry BFF.

Miss Addison

2011-03-27T22:45:00.000-04:00

Today, my brother, sister-in-law, and niece came down to visit us from Fort Wayne. (I've been looking forward to today for quite a while!!) Addison's 1st Birthday is coming up, and we wanted to get some 1 year pictures done before her birthday party.

Here's a preview of some of of the photos.

I'm Still Here!!!

2011-03-26T23:29:00.000-04:00

I know, I know... it's been over a month since my last post. I'd like to say that I've been really busy at work, but it hasn't been crazy. I'd like to say that we've had a lot of photography shoots taking up our time, but there haven't been... until last week.

I think about all of our family and friends who have kids and their crazy hectic schedules, and then I look at Mike and I's schedule. It's really not that bad.

So why can't I find 30 minutes to sit down and write a blog post?

I've had so many thoughts and ideas; so many things I could write about. But then I think, if I write about all of these things, will it come across as bragging? That's not my intention. God has been so awesome to us that last few months, and I want to share that with everyone.

Pray that I find the right words to share with you guys. God is awesome... so awesome.

My One Word

2011-02-09T21:24:00.001-05:00

Here's a question for you: What does one out of every three people do on January 1?
Did I hear you say create New Years Resolutions? Winner Winner Chicken Dinner!!!

Next question: How many people actually STICK to their New Years Resolutions?
(BE HONEST! It's February 8... are you still sticking to YOURS?)
75% of people stick to their goals for a week, while only 46% are still on track six months later.

I can't tell you how many times I've made the same resolutions: I'm going to go to the gym every day and get back into shape. (I think I've gone to the gym maybe 10 times since January 1st.) I'm going to eat healthier. (So much for the McDonalds I chowed down today.) I'm going to be wiser with my money. (The lady at Starbucks knows me by name.) You get the point.

This past month at work, we teamed up with "My One Word" and challenged our listeners to come up with one word that they could work towards instead of a lengthy list that normally doesn't get completed. (See previous paragraph!)

When I was in San Francisco last month for work, one of my friends asked me if I had come up with my one word yet. I hadn't so I asked her what her's was. She picked ABIDE. Another friend picked CLEAR. So I decided I needed to pick one too (silly peer pressure) but not one specific word was coming to mind. I could think of a lot of different phrases, but not one word. So I prayed.

A few days later, the word FOLLOW kept coming to mind. My initial thought? I'm not a follower, I'm a leader! GODSMACK! (That's what I like to say when God smacks me in the head.) I've been too busy paving my own path and going after what I want instead of following God and doing what HE wants me to do. I need to let God be my leader, and I need to follow him.

So this year, I'm putting my personal agenda and goals aside and really working on following God. Its not too late to pick your one word. Once you do, let me know what you pick!

The Most Thoughtful Gift

2010-12-28T12:35:00.001-05:00

This year at work I participated in the "Secret Santa" program. I've never done one before, so I was pretty excited. I have to say, I learned a lot from the person who was my Secret Santa. She was on top of it! From all the little greetings throughout December to the gifts she gave me right before Christmas, she was amazing! I just recieved my final gift from her and it brought tears to my eyes.

The gift? A necklace with a pendant that has Nashville, TN on it and a second pendant of a compass. Around the ring of the compass, this saying is printed: "There are no shortcuts to anywhere worth going."

Attached to the gift was a note that read:

"Bethany, I hope you enjoy the necklace! I thought keeping your dream close to your heart would be a nice reminder that maybe one day it will come true."
Thank you, Chelsey. This necklace means more to me than you could ever imagine. Thank you!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T09:01:00.001-05:00

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them, and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!" - Luke 2:8-14

My life: Wordle version

2010-12-23T11:21:00.000-05:00

Woman's Best Friend

2010-12-15T22:34:00.000-05:00

Whoever coined the phrase that a dog is a "man's best friend" doesn't know my Riley. He's a WOMAN's best friend, too.

Food Poisoning or The Flu?

2010-12-14T22:41:00.004-05:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, the story you are about to read is true. The names have been changed to protect the innocent.

[Cue Dragnet theme music]

This is the city: Indianapolis, Indiana. I work here. I'm a photographer (for this story.)
It was Sunday, December 12 and it was snowing and cold in Indianapolis.
We were working a photo shoot on the circle in downtown.
My partner is Mike Derringer, and the boss, well, we were both "the boss."
My name is Bethany.

A young women had become ill Sunday evening and we had to figure out who or what made her sick.

[Cue Dragnet "dum ta dum dum dummmmmmm" music]

Okay, Okay, enough fun. I've been home sick for two days now. I'm FINALLY starting to feel better, so I'm working on photos from our shoots this past weekend. When I came across this photos (notice the blurring to "protect the innocent") I had to do a quick blog post. This drink, up until Monday night, was what I thought to be the reason I had been so sick!

I was feeling fine until about an hour after I had this eggnog hot chocolate. I didn't have time to be sick so I just chalked it up as my body not taking kindly to liquid chocolate (no joke - they just melt chocolate for their hot chocolate - it's like drinking a liquid Hershey bar) or that there was some bad Eggnog mixed in with the drink.

That evening, Mike and I went to my work's Christmas party, where, come to find out, I was the only staff member (besides the host and some of our mutual friends) who actually was crazy enough to venture out into the snow storm Sunday night. I had to be there! I had made cupcakes and whoopie pies! Once it was time to eat, I had NO appetite, but I just figured I had O.D'd on Chocolate.

We didn't stay very long because of the weather and headed home. I'll spare you the rest of the details, but come Monday night when I was still sick, I decided it was the flu rather than the drink above.

And then I remembered back to a week prior when I was at my doctors office and they asked if I had gotten my flu shot yet and I said "Nope!" Yeah - probably should have gotten my flu shot.

A Tender Tennessee Christmas... kinda

2010-12-06T23:55:00.001-05:00

I know I've written about my love for Tennessee. There's something that I just cannot put into words about the state. I don't know how else to describe it: I love Tennessee.

Since Mike and I weren't able to travel to NYC this past November like we had originally planned, we decided to take a vacation closer to home that we could drive to. A friend of mine who lives in TN had invited Mike and I down to stay with her for a weekend, so we finally took her up on the offer this past weekend. I'm so glad we were able to make 5 hour trip south. We had such a great time and can't wait to go back again. (I'm secretly wishing that someday we can just MOVE there!)

Friday night after we arrived in Nashville we went to get appetizers with Meredith and her friend. When we got downtown, we were surprised to find the Nashville Christmas Race and Parade. It was quite comical watching all of the runners in their various Christmas decorated outfits. We saw many reindeer, elves, and Santa's running the race. We also saw a Firehouse running, which was neat, but the best was a family dressed up as Mary & Joseph. (Sorry, no pictures. We didn't take the camera with us that night!)

After appetizers we headed to the Skillet / tobyMac concert. (One of Mike and I's favorite bands is Skillet.) We had a GREAT time and probably one of the best concerts we've seen (behind Jeremy Camp in October!) Skillet's lead singer surprised everyone and played a hymn on his acoustic guitar and then tobyMac busted out some Christmas songs! There was a point in the concert when Toby came out into the audience to sing, and sure enough, he climbed into the stands right next to us!! That was GREAT!

We ducked out of the concert a little early and headed to the Flying Saucer to meet up with some of Meredith's co-workers and a new band her label was signing. (For my beer loving friends, you would LOVE that place. They had over 200 different styles of beer there!)

Saturday morning we had two different options for "Nashville" type breakfasts: The Pancake Pantry and Loveless Cafe. My only question was which one had grits? All I wanted was real southern grits! We choose Loveless and man, oh, man am I glad we went there!!! BEST grits and biscuits I've ever had! I'm not sure I can go back to Cracker Barrel now and enjoy grits there - it just won't measure up to Loveless' grits :-)

After entering our carbs coma from all of the biscuits, we headed towards Arrington Vineyards, which was founded by Kix Brooks (of the former "Brooks & Dunn fame.) On our way, we drove past the Nachez Trace Parkway Bridge. Beautiful and BIG!!!!

At Arrington, we were able to enjoy the beautiful Tennessee scenery (and do a little wine tasting, too!)

Our last big "tourist" visit I wanted to do on this trip was to visit the Opryland Hotel. I'm sure you all heard that with the floods Nashville received this past Spring, the Hotel was shut down for 6 months due to flood damage. The Hotel had only reopened 3 weeks ago, so I really wanted to go see it. Meredith had also told us about the Christmas lights, so I wanted to see that too!

We had a great time walking around inside the Hotel. I never realized how GINOURMOUS that place is! You could spend an entire day just walking around inside. Now I understand why so many Senior Citizen groups take bus trips there ;-)

Saturday night ended with the 3 of us (Meredith, Mike, and myself) eating pizza and watching the movie "Elf" back at her condo. What a great ending to a great day!

On Sunday, we went to church with Meredith before heading back to Indiana. Now for us who don't live in the "Bible Belt" going to church on Sunday normally doesn't involve that much traffic. NOT IN NASHVILLE!!! We had to sit in traffic, just like a week day to get to church! WOW!!!! The best part of going to church? Mike and I actually got to worship TOGETHER! Normally when we're home, Mike is up on the platform playing guitar and singing, so it's a rarity that we get to worship together. I LOVE it when we can worship together. Those are always special moments for me.

While it wasn't quite Christmas Day when we were in Tennessee, we saw the beauty that God has created in the Tennessee landscape, we saw it snow in Nashville (gasp!), saw Mary & Joseph carrying baby Jesus (albeit they were running in a race...) worshipped the birth of Jesus, and spent some quality time with a great friend, I'll say that's as close as we're going to get to a "tender Tennessee Christmas" until we move there someday.

Thanks Meredith for a great weekend! We can't wait to see you again. And all those plans we made for 3 years down the road? MARK YOUR CALENDAR, GIRL! :-)

Movie: "Homeless for the Holidays"

2010-11-26T13:39:00.001-05:00

I'm always on the lookout for new movies to use as discussion starters for the middle school youth group I lead at church. A few weeks ago, I came across the movie "Homeless for the Holidays"

Homeless for the Holidays is one of those movies where, if you can get past the mediocre acting (think "FireProof") the message that is behind the movie is 100% right on.

"When an uncaring executive falls from the corporate ladder, he learns how difficult it can be to find work and compassion in today's economy. He eventually accepts a humiliating job, but with bills rapidly piling up, and not enough money to go around, he quickly discovers that, unless something changes soon, he'll lose everything by Christmas. Will family and faith be enough to bring joy when you're Homeless for the Holidays?"

One of the tag lines for the movie is "Do you realize what you really have?" I'll be honest: I'm guilty of driving through the nice neighborhoods looking at the big houses and their nice cars, walking through Pottery Barn and saying "I want this... I want that..." drooling when I look at outfits at Anthropologie. I used to think that Mike and I were just getting by. But after watching Homeless for the Holidays as well as our experience yesterday morning while delivering the bags to the homeless in downtown, I do realize how much we really do have.

I have God.
I have my husband.
I have our family and amazing friends.
I have a house and a car and food on my table.
I have a job that I absolutely love.

I'll be sharing the movie with my middle schoolers at church. It does an excellent job of illustrating how life, what they thought was great, can quickly crumble and how quickly one realizes what is really important to them.

To my Fort Wayne Family & Friends: The Cast & crew from Homeless for the Holidays will be signing DVD's at the Fort Wayne Family Christian Store on Coldwater Rd this Saturday (11/27) from 1-3pm.

I have the best coworkers

2010-11-26T01:01:00.001-05:00

Beth and I had planned on spending our Thanksgiving morning down at Wheeler Mission helping out in whatever way they needed, be it handing out food, helping with clothing, anything. Turns out - they already had enough volunteers; quite a fortunate problem to have. So we were left with the decision, sleep in and enjoy the holiday and day off of work, or try to make a difference in someone's life. This was quite an easy decision - spreading God's love isn't possible without leaving our house. We decided that we would get some supplies together and head downtown to hand them out to any homeless people that we could find. This was kind of a last minute decision, so we only had a short time to get everything together. Hastily, I sent an email out to some coworkers letting them know of our plans and asking them for any donations and to forward it on to anyone else they thought might have been interested in helping. Within a couple of hours, I had almost $150 in donations to help us out.

We debated on even doing this blog post, because the last thing we want is for our efforts to come across as self-serving, or to be a "look at what we did". This isn't about us. This is about serving, spreading the good news of God's love and taking all the blessings we've been given and spreading them to those who aren't as fortunate as we have been. Ultimately, we decided that we should show what we were able to accomplish with a little help and show what the donations and help went towards. Initially, we had planned on handing out some turkey sandwiches (since it was Thanksgiving), but after consulting with the woman who heads up our church's homeless ministry, we decided against food. This is the one day out of the year that they actually DON'T need food, because of the numerous shelters/ministries that were handing out food today. So we decided to get things that might be helpful in the upcoming cold weather.

Beth stopped over at Harbor Freight and found that they had gloves, 6 pairs for about $5. So she grabbed all 13 packs that they had in stock. Getting up to the register, the cashier asked why she was buying what amounted to 156 gloves, so Beth told her of our plans to hand them out the following day to any homeless people we could find. The total should have been over $70, but the cashier said "$29.53". Beth questioned this, and the cashier responded "if you're doing all this, this is the least I can do to help." So to the Harbor Freight cashier - thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Without even asking and purely out of the goodness of your heart, you managed to make what money we had go over twice as far. After a couple trips to Costco, Walmart, and Harbor Freight, we were set.

We managed put together 30 bags filled with: a fleece blanket to help keep warm in the upcoming months, a couple pairs of gloves, a pair of socks, 4 pairs of hand warmers, a liter bottle of water, and some heavy duty garbage bags to keep their belongings and themselves dry in the freezing rain that is called for in the forecast.

Thursday morning arrived, and we headed downtown and met up with some friends from church, David and Chris. Unfortunately, it was raining, which meant that people had understandably taken shelter from the weather. Undeterred, we loaded up a borrowed wagon (thanks Sarah!) and started walking. Due to the weather, we had quite a difficult time even finding people. Through the first 90 minutes, we had handed out only 3 bags. We hoped that this was not a sign of the things to come. Fortunately, the rain let up for a couple of hours and we were able to find more people in need. Every homeless person that we came across, we gave them a bag, talked with them a bit, and most importantly - prayed with them. We had various requests, from getting an apartment to simply praying for good health. No matter what prayer requests anyone had, we asked for God's blessings upon them, and to let them be a light unto others that they may encounter; to know that despite their circumstances, that there is a God who loves them unconditionally and with no strings attached.

About halfway through the morning, Chris made a remark of "Hopefully we give away the last bag to the last person we see". Sure enough, God took care of it. We were getting close to the end of the bags and getting close to the time that we needed to leave due to family obligations. So we decided to load up the last 5 bags we had and walk around one more block, and anything we had left over, we'd give to the church to give out. Almost immediately, we found a woman who was very grateful for the gifts. That left us with 4 bags. And as sure as I sit here writing this - we had no more than turned around that we came upon 4 homeless people walking by.

To everyone at work who donated: I can not thank you enough. Thank you for helping those who are nowhere near as fortunate as we are. Thank you for helping and being part of something bigger than ourselves. It's very easy to get caught up in material possessions and always want more. We need to realize just how good we have it, and just how much worse it could be. We met people today who literally carried everything they owned in a coat pocket. It's enough to make us realize how petty we can be from time to time. It's hard to worry about keeping up with the latest technology/fashion when you talk with someone who doesn't even have a change of clothes to their name.

To Chris and David: Thank you for your help. Both of you have a gift of being able to connect with and talk with anyone at anytime. I have zero doubt that the two of you will use that gift to spread God's love and the good news of what awaits us beyond this temporary stay on Earth.

To my wife: Thank you for running around to all the different stores on zero notice and getting everything that you possibly could and being on board with this admittedly poorly planned endeavor. Without your commitment, absolutely none of this would have been possible. Your heart is 100% devoted to God and an example that we could all learn from.

Last, but certainly not least: Thank You to my God, my father. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus says "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." Thank You for the opportunity to spend our morning spreading not only Your word and Your love, but Your blessings as well and I pray that You will lead those whom we served today to be an example of what faith in You can do. I pray that everyone we encountered knows that they are never alone because You never let go, through the calm and through the storm. I know that this world is not our home, and that our reward awaits us in your court.

I know how easy it is to feel that the world is unfair. We don't think we get what we deserve. And that is 100% true. In the words of Relient K - "The beauty of grace is that it makes life not fair". No matter what you might feel like you deserve, remember one thing - Romans 5:8 "While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Life isn't fair - but it isn't fair in our favor.

Things could always be better. After today, I realize that things could absolutely be much, much worse.

Bath Time

2010-11-24T08:49:00.002-05:00

I couldn't find Frankie Bob this morning. All I could think was "I hope he didn't run out the back door when I wasn't looking! It's cold outside!" Then I heard a noise in the spare bathroom...

By the amount of cat hair on the shower curtain, I'm guessing he frequents the bathtub often.

I've been bit...

2010-11-14T21:32:00.000-05:00

...by the Christmas bug!

I'm officially ready for Christmas, and I thought the blog needed to reflect that. :-)

My War Hero: My Grandpa

2010-11-11T22:46:00.002-05:00

"...the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month..."

Thanks to each and every Veteran that has served our country. I'm afraid if I listed each of you that have been a part of my life who have served, I'd leave someone out. From family, friends, former class-mates and co-workers, you ALL have my utmost respect. Thank YOU for serving for our Country.

There is one Veteran, in particular, that is no longer with us, but will always be my Hero; my Grandpa: 1st Lieutenant Joe Gibbs Rowe. He served during World War II for the US Army Air Corps.

I have a lot of memories of my Grandpa. I remember spending weekends at my Grandpa and Grandma's. I remember eating Co-Co Wheats and Jello Pudding Pops at their house. I remember my Grandpa listening to talk radio and thinking Rush Limbaugh was the greatest! I remember Grandpa taking me to church with him and introducing me to EVERY single one of he and Grandmas and eventually my Step-Grandmas friends. I remember sitting on my Grandpa's back deck that overlooked the small pond. I remember riding in the paddle boat with my brother and fighting over who got to steer.

My Grandpa was a member of the local Optimist Club. One event their club sponsored was a drug free event and I remember my Grandpa taking me to the event, not because I needed to be drug free (HAHA) but because it was a place for us to hang out together. I remember sitting in the Captain's seat with Grandpa and driving his boat in Florida. I remember Grandpa driving his golf cart around their Mobile Home Community in Florida and teaching my brother and I how to play shuffle board. (If that doesn't scream Florida retirement community, what does?)

I remember family trips to Grandpa's House in Florida. (He and my Grandma were Snow Birds.) There is one trip in particular I will never forget. It was our last trip to Florida as a family before Grandpa got cancer. We were driving from Indiana and we would stop at Cracker Barrel's along the way. (Maybe that's why I love Cracker Barrel's so much now?) I ended up catching the flu on this trip and as a way to pick up my spirits for the rest of the drive to Florida, my parents bought me a stuffed Santa at one of the many Cracker Barrel's we visited. That stuffed Santa was my best friend for the rest of the trip.

As I got older, stuffed animals because less "cool" but every Christmas, I would pull out my stuffed Santa and he would always sit on top of Grandpa's "Grandfather Clock" that we got after Grandpa passed away. It was a way that I could always remember Grandpa.

I will never forget the day my Grandpa died. November 14, 1997. I was a junior in high school and that day, we (the marching band) were getting ready to head to Indianapolis for Bands of America. I remember sitting in class and getting called down to the office (not a normal event for me) for a phone call; my Dad calling to say my Grandpa had died and that my brother was on his way to pick me up so we could drive up to Goshen to be with the rest of our family. I remember being in shock and then walking up the ramp in the school towards the class rooms and going straight to my band directors class that he was teaching. I remember trying to tell my band director that I couldn't go to Indianapolis for band, and then loosing it and started crying on his shoulder.

I remember the drive to Goshen with my brother. We didn't fight. We got along. And we talked about our memories of Grandpa. I remember our step-Grandma asking if my brother and I wanted to go to the hospital to see Grandpa's body. We both said no. We wanted to remember Grandpa before he got sick. I remember getting to my Grandpa's house and seeing my Dad cry.

I remember going to Grandpa's funeral. I played "Amazing Grace" on my flute - one of Grandpa's favorite hymns. I remember seeing my cousin, Marcella, whom I hadn't seen in a really long time. (I get to see Marcella for the first time since Grandpa's funeral this coming May at her wedding!)

Some years after Grandpa had died, (I'm guessing it was 2004ish) Mike and I had gone to a friend of his' wedding reception in downtown Fort Wayne. The Bride and Groom were doing all of the formal dances and at the end of the dances, the Bride has a "special" dance and surprised her Grandfather with a dance for just the two of them. At that very moment, I realized how much I loved and respected and missed my Grandpa. It hit me out of nowhere. I started crying at the table and Mike and I ended up getting up and leaving. I kept saying over and over "I won't be able to dance with my Grandpa at our wedding."

Fast forward to our wedding. Although Grandpa wasn't their physically, I know without a doubt that he was there with us. My Mom brought my "Grandpa Santa" to the wedding (appropriate since we had a December wedding) As weird as it sounded without knowing the background of my Santa, I asked our wedding photographer to take a picture of me with my Santa. It's one of my favorite pictures.

As Veterans Day comes to a close, we near the anniversary of my Grandpa's death and birthday. Grandpa was born on November 17, 1918 and went home to be with our Heavenly Father on November 14, 1997. Grandpa would have been 93 years old this year.

Of all the memories I have with my Grandpa, it's given me the opportunity to remember those memories with my Dad. My last memory I'm going to share is actually of me and my Dad, but it's all about my Grandpa.

When I worked at WOWO in Fort Wayne, I was given the opportunity to take a trip in a B25 - the same type of plane my Grandpa flew during the war. I asked my Dad to go with me so we could both take pictures, but also to give my Dad a chance to ride in the same type of plane his Dad flew. That plane ride, as LOUD and bumpy as it was, was one of the neatest moments for me and my Dad. I honestly cant put into words what that plane ride meant to both of us, but we both felt a lot closer to Grandpa (me) and Dad (my Dad) during that flight over the Summit City.

I love you and miss you Grandpa. I'm sorry if I didn't tell you enough when I was growing up what a wise and good man you were. I hope that I will be half the person you were someday. Here's to you Grandpa. I love you. Happy Veterans Day.

Joe Gibbs Rowe. 1918 - 1997

I'm still here...

2010-11-08T14:06:00.000-05:00

We've been really busy (I mean REALLY busy) the last month. Once I catch up on my work stuff (for both radio and photography) I'll get a post up for you. Soooo much to share!!!!

HUGS!

A Mental Health Day

2010-10-13T19:03:00.001-04:00

I had one of "those days" on Tuesday. I was just exhausted - mentally, emotionally, and physically. I needed a break from everything - work, people, attitudes, stress, schedules, events, to do lists, etc... So I ended up taking today off of work - a much needed "Mental Health Day" I like to call it.

I started to feel relaxed when I pulled out of the parking lot from our event for work yesterday afternoon. I could finally "turn off" that part of me for at least a day. From the event, I drove to my best friends house to take her daughter's 1st Year pictures. As soon as I walked into Julie & Ryan's house and saw Leah sitting in the bath tub with a giant smile on her face, all the stress went away. Her sweet little face was all I needed to see. After Leah got out of her bath, I got her dressed into her outfit for her pictures and then along with her Mommy and Daddy and dog, we all piled into their car and drove to the park near their house to do her photos.

Yesterday was a BEAUTIFUL fall evening - a perfect night for not only a photo shoot, but a perfect night to sit outdoors at one of my favorite restaurants in town.

After we finished the photos, we dropped the dog off at their house and then drove to one of my favorite places to eat in town. (It's where I first got hooked on the Peanut Butter Bacon Cheeseburger!) We sat outside and ate and talked and laughed. It was such a great night. (Mike had school or else he would have been there with us!)

Knowing I was taking today off of work, I didn't set my alarm clock last night before going to bed. I figured I'd take full advantage of not having to work and sleep in. Well, of course, it's the morning that someone calls my cell at 7:30am!!!! Once I realized what time it was and Mike was still in bed, I panicked thinking he overslept for work! I woke him up and said "MIKE! It's 7:30! You overslept!" His response? "No I didn't" I have the BEST husband. He knew how crummy of a day I had yesterday so he took today off of work to surprise me and spend it with me!!!!!!!

WOW! A day where it's just Mike and I and no schedules, no running around from this to that, no work email going nuts on my phone, NOTHING. It was just MIKE AND I!. WOW!

We had such a good day together. There were a lot of little things from today that meant so much to me:

Before I started working at the station, Mike and I used to drive together to work everyday. We always listened to Mike & Mike (ESPN) together in the car. (You don't realize you miss stuff like that until it's been long gone and you hear it again.) After we got up this morning, Mike turned on Mike & Mike on the TV (they are on both the radio and TV) and to hear their voices again, and be spending the morning with MY Mike, it was like old times!
Mike made us breakfast! He made banana pancakes and they were delicious!
We played the wii together - something we haven't done in a really long time. Of course Mike beat me in EVERY game we played, but it was still fun.
I got my haircut - something I've been wanting to do for a few months.
Mike and I ran around town together, just going wherever we wanted. We even got our grocery shopping done TOGETHER!
Now Mike is making dinner for us: Steak, home made mashed potatoes, veggies, and wine.

Last night was a reminder for me on why Julie and her husband Ryan are so dear to me and on why having such good friends are important.

Today was a reminder for me that no matter what, I have to remember to take care of me. If I don't, I'm no use to anyone - at work or at home. I was also reminded on why I married Mike. He is so good to me. I love him more than words could ever say.

Dear Mr. God

2010-09-20T14:31:00.000-04:00

Have you watched the movie "Letters to God"? If you havn't, I would encourage you to. I've watched it twice now, and could watch it many more and still cry. I don't know if I cry so much because I'm at a point in my life where I realize I should be communicating with God even more than I already am or if it's because I know a little boy fighting a hard battle with cancer (Aidan), but the movie has touched me beyond what words could even attempt to describe.

After seeing the movie the first time, I wanted to share it with the middle school youth group I lead. I found a great 3 week curriculum based on the movie and we watched the first half last of the movie night. They'll watch the rest of the movie next Sunday and for the following 3 weeks, we'll do a study based around the movie. At the end of the series, Mike and I will have a surprise for the students (can't reveal it here because some of them might read this post!) on how they can personally further the theme of writing letters to God.

One of the songs used in the movie is The Warren Brothers, "Dear Mr. God" I've listened to this song more times than I can count this weekend. It's one of those songs that really makes you think. Take a listen and let me know what you think:

Update on Aidan

2010-09-15T15:55:00.001-04:00

From Aidan's CaringBridge Site:

"Praise the Lord! Aidan is fine! And Dr LaQuaglia was able to save his kidney. He said "I got it all" God bless Aidan and Dr. Laquaglia and God bless you all!"

Thank you for all of your prayers for his surgery. I know his family appreciates it! Keep on praying that Aidan will be cured and comfortable. Cured and comfortable!

Pray for Aidan!

2010-09-14T21:47:00.001-04:00

At 7am tomorrow morning, Dr. LaQuaglia at Sloan Kettering in NYC will begin the surgery to remove the tumor from Aidan's body. Please pray for Aidan to be cured and comfortable! Please pray that God will guide the surgeon's hands during the surgery. Please pray that God will be with Aidan's family and friends during the surgery and give them a peace knowing He is in control.

"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." - Isaiah 40:29-31

Aidan with his prayer shawl in July

Outlive Your Life Preview

2010-09-01T19:37:00.000-04:00

I just finished reading an advance copy (one of the perks of my job) of Max Lucado's new book "Outlive Your Life"

After reading the book, I have so many thoughts, things I want to say, etc... that I'm going to have a pretty long blog post coming up. I have 3 words for you:

READ. THE. BOOK.

The book has started shipping and can be ordered from your major Christian book retailers. But in the meantime, here's the trailer (yes, they have them for books too!) to get you excited about the book!

A Mothers Touch

2010-09-01T10:44:00.005-04:00

A friend of mine shared this news article from Australia with me and I had to share it with you!!!
"It was a final chance to say goodbye for grieving mother Kate Ogg after doctors gave up hope of saving her premature baby.

She tearfully told her lifeless son - born at 27 weeks weighing 2lb - how much she loved him and cuddled him tightly, not wanting to let him go.

Although little Jamie's twin sister Emily had been delivered successfully, doctors had given Mrs Ogg the news all mothers dread - that after 20 minutes of battling to get her son to breathe, they had declared him dead. Having given up on a miracle, Mrs Ogg unwrapped the baby from his blanket and held him against her skin. And then an extraordinary thing happened.

After two hours of being hugged, touched and spoken to by his mother, the little boy began showing signs of life.

At first, it was just a gasp for air that was dismissed by doctors as a reflex action.

But then the startled mother fed him a little breast milk on her finger and he started breathing normally.

'I thought, "Oh my God, what's going on",' said Mrs Ogg.

'A short time later he opened his eyes. It was a miracle. Then he held out his hand and grabbed my finger.

'He opened his eyes and moved his head from side to side. The doctor kept shaking
his head saying, "I don't believe it, I don't believe it".'

The Australian mother spoke publicly for the first time yesterday to highlight the importance of skin-on-skin care for sick babies, which is being used at an increasing number of British hospitals. In most cases, babies are rushed off to intensive care if there is a serious problem during the birth.

But the 'kangaroo care' technique, named after the way kangaroos hold their young in a pouch next to their bodies, allows the mother to act as a human incubator to keep babies warm, stimulated and fed.

Pre-term and low birth-weight babies treated with the skin-to-skin method have also been shown to have lower infection rates, less severe illness, improved sleep patterns and are at reduced risk of hypothermia.

Mrs Ogg and her husband David told how doctors gave up on saving their son after a three-hour labour in a Sydney hospital in March.

'The doctor asked me had we chosen a name for our son,' said Mrs Ogg. 'I said, "Jamie", and he turned around with my son already wrapped up and said, "We've lost Jamie, he didn't make it, sorry".

'It was the worse feeling I've ever felt. I unwrapped Jamie from his blanket. He was very limp.

'I took my gown off and arranged him on my chest with his head over my arm and just held him. He wasn't moving at all and we just started talking to him.

'We told him what his name was and that he had a sister. We told him the things we wanted to do with him throughout his life.

'Jamie occasionally gasped for air, which doctors said was a reflex action. But then I felt him move as if he were startled, then he started gasping more and more regularly.

'I gave Jamie some breast milk on my finger, he took it and started regular breathing.'

Mrs Ogg held her son, now five months old and fully recovered, as she spoke on the Australian TV show Today Tonight. Her husband added: 'Luckily I've got a very strong, very smart wife. 'She instinctively did what she did. If she hadn't done that, Jamie probably wouldn't be here.' "

The Kangaroo Care mentioned in the article was used with our niece, Isabella, when she was born. IT WORKS!

To see the article, click here.

Walking by Faith

2010-08-23T22:08:00.005-04:00

Do you alll remember Mike and I's little buddy Aidan? He has been at Riley the last few days for his last round of chemo before heading to NYC next month for surgery to remove his tumor.

I have been wanting to visit Aidan the last few times he was at Riley, but schedule wise, it just didn't work out. I was determined to visit him while he was in for this round of chemo. I wanted to go this past Saturday, but it ended up not working out then either. I just figured I would go Monday (today) after work.

Fast forward to today: Jeremy Camp came into the studios to promote his new album "We Cry Out" and play a short acoustic set for some lucky winners from both of our stations. Towards the end of Jeremy's visit, I decided to ask him if he would be kind enough to autograph a monkey for Aidan. I started to tell Jeremy and the promotions director from his record label Aidan's story. Jeremy quickly said "Yes! I'll sign that for him." Jeremy signed the monkey for Aidan with the sweetest message: "Aidan, Jesus loves you so much!"

After Jeremy signed the monkey, he said asked if we could all pray for Aidan. So Jeremy, Tamara (from his label) two of my co-workers, Jamin and KC, and I stood and prayed for Aidan. It was awesome to know that Jeremy, someone who has never met Aidan before, was so willing to just stop everything he was doing and say a prayer for Aidan.

Soon after Jeremy and his crew left, I headed towards Riley to visit Aidan and his Mommy. When I arrived to Aidan's room, his Mommy was talking to a friend of their's and Aidan was watching "Clone Wars" on his iPad. (I have an upcoming post devoted to Aidan's foundation and iPads!) After a few minutes, his Mom noticed the monkey in my hands for Aidan. I told her that we had someone pretty special visit my work today and I got him to autograph the monkey just for Aidan. When she asked who signed it and I said Jeremy Camp, her eyes got really big. She said "JEREMY CAMP?" and rushed to get her iPhone. She started scrolling through her list of songs and showed me one of Jeremy's songs on her Shazam list "Walk By Faith" and said "The guy who sings that" I said "Yep" and immediately got goosebumps on my arms.

Why did I get goosebumps? Watch this video of Jeremy giving his testimony about why he wrote the song "Walk by Faith" (the song Aidan's Mommy had on her iPhone) and you'll understand.

As soon as she showed me that song, I knew at that very moment I wasn't there on my time, I was there on God's time. I wasn't supposed to go visit Aidan on Saturday like I had originally planned because if I had, I wouldn't have been able to give Aidan the monkey autographed by Jeremy. I wouldn't have been able to have the conversation with Aidan's Mommy about Jeremy Camp's testimony and the story behind the song "Walk By Faith." The list can go on... God wanted to give Aidan's Mom, someone whom my heart breaks for on a daily basis, a sign that God is walking by their side during Aidan's entire battle with cancer.

As Jeremy said in the video, "I want to encourage you. Whatever is going on in your life... Just trust in Him. And take steps, even baby steps, and watch Him be faithful each step that you take..." While nobody but God is sure what Aidan's future holds, his family and friends are walking by their faith in God. Each day is a different step in the direction of God's plan.

I'm not sure if you can see it in the picture above, but next to his autograph, Jeremy wrote on the monkey's shirt Acts 20:24:

"However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me–the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace."

Aidan's family has been and will continue to be a testimony of God's grace.

Here's the rest video of Jeremy signing "Walk by Faith"

My 29th Birthday

2010-08-01T22:26:00.004-04:00

I had one of the best birthdays that I can remember for quite some time, and since it was my last birthday for my 20's, I'm glad it was a memorable one!

Friday morning I walked into my office at work to find crepe paper, confetti and balloons all of the place with a super sweet message on my dry erase board:

After I was shocked to find all this, I had to burst their bubble by asking them to quickly remove the balloons from my office. (They were latex balloons.... I'm allergic to latex...go figure!) After we let my office air out for awhile, I got to work on cleaning the confetti off of my desk. I'm sure I'm going to be finding confetti hidden in that office for years to come.

The morning went on and one of my co-workers asked if my other co-worker and I could preview a presentation she had put together to give her our feedback. Sure! Why not? Little did I know that there really wasn't a presentation. At noon, my co-worker and I walked into our conference room to view the "presentation" and as we were standing there, the door opened and everyone else on staff in our office came in carrying a cake and signing "Happy Birthday!" BUT WAIT - THERE'S MORE. (haha) After they sang, my co-worker, Jamin, said that there was one more surprise for me, and he started to play this video:

WOW! Beckah Shae is one of my favorite artists, and I wasn't able to make it to her concert when she was here in Indy because it was the night before we left for Ichthus. So my co-worker contacted Beckah's people and asked if she could record a birthday greeting for me. AWE-SOME!

As a "perk" for working at my company, we're able to get 3 hours off on our birthday, so I left the office and headed home. Mike took the afternoon off too so we could hang out. We both got home from work, vegged around the house, and then got ready to go out to dinner.

For dinner, we went to a little Italian place in Broadripple called "Mamma Carollas" and it was delicious! We were able to sit outside because the weather was actually decent and not overly-muggy. I didn't lug my camera into the restaraunt, but here's an iPhone shot of some of the food. It was SOOOO good!

After dinner, Mike and I headed over to the Indianapolis Museum of Art for their Friday Night Movie Series to watch "Muppets Take Manhattan." (A little background: Ya'll know I want to go to NYC again REALLY bad! Like REALLY REALLY bad. I wanted to go back for my birthday, but it just wasn't going to work out, so instead of going to Manhattan, Mike decided to bring Manhattan to me.)

Once we got our tickets and set up our lawn chairs, we had some time to walk around the grounds before the movie started. Here are some of the pictures I took of Mike: (He was being quite comical when I was taking these. His facial expressions make me laugh!)

I love this one because he was being silly, but I was able to get a good shot of his tiger eyes. I just LOVE his eyes!

Mike took this one of the two of us right before we headed back to find our chairs.

Once the sun went down, it was time for the Muppets! :-)

I had such a great time on my Birthday this year, and it was all because of my wonderful husband, family, and friends! It's amazing how technology has changed birthdays. It was pretty fun to receive all of the birthday texts, Facebook messages and greetings, e-cards, etc from everyone.

So to everyone, THANK YOU for making the last birthday in my 20's such a memorable day.

...story of my life...

2010-07-29T16:25:00.002-04:00

Those of you who know me well will probably roll your eyes after reading this and say "Go figure!" My co-workers (note that I've only worked with them since December of last year!) already have said "Good grief girl - what's next?" My response to what I'm about to tell you? "It's the story of my life." BLAH!

For a few months now, when I get out of bed in the morning and put my feet on the ground, I get this horrible pain that starts in my feet and shoots up my leg and into my toes. I normally end up limping around for about 20 minutes until I get used to the pain. It seems to be OK during the day (because I'm normally sitting at my desk) but at night when I go to lay down, it's back, and BAD!

The last week or so, my toes have started to swell, so I decided it was time to go to the doctor. I went to the doc on Tuesday of this week and she did an X-Ray because she wanted to rule out a stress fracture. The X-ray came back fine, but she said something just wasn't right. She started asking if I had heel pain, which I don't, because she thought it could be plantar fasciitis. Sooooo the next step? Send me to a podiatrist. I must confess: I thought only old people went to podiatrists.... But then again, I used to think only old people went to Rheumatologist and I am on my 2nd one now... OYE!

My doctor got me in to see the podiatrist today. As I was telling him all of my symptoms and he was touching and looking at my feet, I was thinking to myself "WHY IN THE WORLD DID I NOT REPAINT MY TOENAILS BEFORE I CAME????"

After he looked at my feet, he said "I know exactly what is wrong with your feet!" Come to find out, there are two issues:

I have Morton's Neuroma in both of my feet. The Podiatrist said my right foot is one of the worst he's seen in a while. To read up on what that is, click here.
I have Sinus Tarsi Syndrome in my right ankle. To read up on what that is, click here.

I got 3 cortisone injections today - one in my right ankle, one in my right foot just below my 3rd and 4th toes, and one in my left foot just below my 3rd and 4th toes. And let me tell ya, it HURT! (It hurt to the point that I blacked out on the exam table!) After I came back to, they wouldn't let me sit up and when I finally did sit up, they made me eat a sucker.

I have to wear an ever-so-attractive black brace on my right ankle (for the Sinus Tarsi Syndrome) and I'm not allowed to wear heals; not that I normally do anyway. I go back in next Thursday to see if the cortisone injections worked. Please pray that they do!!! If not, he'll start alcohol injections into my right foot. The goal of those? To eventually kill the nerve so there's no pain. If that doesn't work? Surgery. (NOOOO!!!!!!) If I would have to have surgery, it would make it nearly impossible for me to do a good portion of my job - events!

So there ya go, it seems like that's been the story of my life lately...

My Cupcakes are Famous!

2010-07-22T09:08:00.007-04:00

There is an amazing cupcake store in town that sells delicious Strawberry Lemonade cupcakes. My co-worker and I have gone there numerous times just for these cupcakes, but they are a bit pricey so I wanted to find out if I could replicate them at home.

Over the 4th of July weekend, Mike and I were invited to a friends house to watch fireworks and we had to bring food to share. I thought it would be a great excuse for me to play in the kitchen and see if I could make my own version of the strawberry lemonade cupcakes. They turned out pretty good - although I wasn't thrilled with the filling and the frosting. I used a strawberry only filling and made homeade strawberry buttercream frosting. The filling was bland - nothing exciting and the heat killed the frosting. It ended up being really runny after sitting out for awhile.

I wanted another chance to make these cupcakes again, but with a few improvements. I can't make them if nobody else is going to eat them because Mike and I wouldn't eat 24 cupcakes. (I can't eat a lot of sweets anymore. My stomach just doesn't like a lot of sugar!)

This past Saturday, my co-workers and I had a baby shower for the morning show producer, KC, and his wife Jessica. It was going to be a PERFECT opportunity for me to make cupcakes! I made a few adjustments - a strawberry AND lemon filling (hence Strawberry Lemonade cupcakes...) and instead of making my own frosting, I just used store bought strawberry and lemon frostings. MUCH easier!

Here's a picture I took with my iPhone just after I frosted them Friday night:

Well, apparently they were a hit! One of the morning show hosts, Lisa, fell in LOVE with them - enough that this morning on the morning show, she talked about them AND posted the recipe on the morning show blog. You can see it here.

After the cupcakes were featured on the morning show, I started getting emails from people who heard her talk about them. One in particular made me laugh. A little background: We're doing a "5th Quarter" event in September at a church on the west side of town for high school students in the area. We've invited the band, Affix, to come in and play for us that night. Anyway, the guitar player for Affix emailed me this morning and said:

"I have one request for our arrival in September.... PLEASE make these cupcakes that everyone is raving about. Thanks! :)"

My cupcakes are famous. Thanks Lisa :-)

We have a Mighty, Awesome God

2010-07-10T09:02:00.005-04:00

Praise God!!!

Here is the latest update from Aidan's Mom, Michele about the results of Aidan's scan yesterday to see if his tumor has shrunk in size from his first two chemo treatments.

"Aidan's test results are good. The tumor is indeed shrinking, the spots are lighter in his bones and it is not spreading. The prayers, the medicine, and his amazing attitude are working. The tumor is 10% smaller in "length" which equates to about 25% less in mass. This is the news we prayed for - the news we needed on so many levels. We needed hope and we got it. We needed to believe that our prayers and your prayers were heard and we got that too. We needed to believe that those horrible, terrible, beautiful, necessary medicines were working and we got that as well. I prayed all day today. For each test we would lay him on his beautiful prayer shawl (delivered by Bethany and made by Center United Methodist) and I would hit my knees and pray. I kept praying for Aidan and for our family. I also kept praying for each of you that prays for us. I kept asking God to hear your prayers so that you could see and feel the results of your efforts and have your faith renewed or further affirmed. I found myself begging God to hear all of your prayers and asking "How will they feel? What will all the people who are praying for Aidan, organizing prayer groups, having their dog walks turn into prayer walks, knitting prayer shawls and lighting candles think and believe if their prayers are not heard?"

I will go to sleep positive that prayer works and as a result I will pray even harder. Maybe you will too. Maybe you will pray harder for Aidan and for other's in your life who are in need. I believe that God will be pleased."

Please say a prayer for Aidan today

2010-07-09T10:03:00.003-04:00

"Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." - Mark 11:24

I was brought to tears this morning when I read Aidan's CaringBridge blog. Aidan's Mom, Michele, wrote a beautiful entry, and I'd like to share it with you.

Tonight we lit a beautiful paper lantern that our neighbor gave to us. It's hard to describe, absolutely beautiful, completely biodegradable and we said our prayers and then lifted them up to God. It flew so high, so far and even when the flame went out, it drifted. We never saw it come down. We told Aidan that the prayers went directly to God. We pray that God hears our prayers - all of our prayers and all of your prayers.

Two days ago Aidan was napping when we were collecting stem cells. I cried and then I decided to write. Here is what I wrote.

Here is what I have learned about Aidan today... he is stronger than I ever imagined and will teach me new things everyday if I watch and listen. Here is what I have learned about life... let little things go, play, focus, be thankful, forgive, pray, that there is more kindness and good in this world than bad, enjoy moments, and don't be confused about what is really a problem. On March 17, 2010 I was annoyed that I had two flat tires in the SUV in the airport parking garage after picking up my Mom for a visit. On March 18, Aidan complained of a "weak leg." On March 19, he was at the first orthopedist. Two months, two different orthopedists, several trips to our pediatrician and two infectious disease doctors, a few trips to the emergency room and rheumatologist and we learned the hard way about the things that truly deserve our attention. I don't want to minimize anyone's worries. Your worries are your worries and no one truly understands anyone else's struggles. I just wished that I would've stopped and recognized what I had. I wish I would've saved my worries for the things worthy of worrying about. I wish I would've been more thankful. Mostly, I wish I would've prayed more so God would recognize my voice now.

I hope you learn from me because I am learning from each of you. I am learning how to be a better friend and a better person through your examples. I can't help but think sometimes that I am being punished - that Aidan is paying for my sins. Chris reminds me that we aren't and weren't bad people but we could have been better. We have failed to be there for others who suffered or were in need. Not always, but often enough we got caught up in our busy lives, had no idea what to say so so didn't say anything at all, thought we might be able to keep sickness and heartache at bay if we didn't get too close to it, or failed to act because of our own fears. We will never make those mistakes again because of each and every one of you that does any little thing you do to try and help us get through this day by day, moment by moment.
We are packing our bags with heavy and yet hopeful hearts. We pray that the scans and tests that begin at 8 a.m. tomorrow show us that Aidan, along with God and all this love around him, did indeed "Shrink, Shrink, Shrink That Tumor."

Please say a prayer for Aidan today.

Colors are OFF

2010-07-07T11:12:00.002-04:00

I'm realizing when I edit my photos on my Mac that the photos look really different on other monitors. So please forgive the color's of the photos below. They look HORRID on my other computer monitors!!!

Time to recalibrate my Mac!!!

Aidan is...

2010-07-05T17:39:00.007-04:00

This afternoon, Mike and I went to visit Aidan. Who is Aidan? I'm glad you asked!

Aidan is...
...one of the cutest little 5 year olds EVER!
...full of life and energy.
...an avid tennis fan.
...a HUGE Butler Bulldogs fan
...a HUGE StarWars fan.
...a blessing to his family and friends.
...fighting the biggest battle of his life.
...an inspiration.

Aidan has Stage 4 Neuroblastoma.

Mike and I went to visit Aidan to deliver something pretty special to him: His very own blue and white prayer shawl. Our church started an amazing ministry a year or so ago where ladies from our church make prayer shawls. Then before the shawls are given to the person they were created for, our entire church comes together on Sunday mornings and prays over them. On the 4th of July, our church prayed over Aidan's prayer shawl.

When I gave Aidan his shawl today, he immediately wrapped it around him and had a huge grin on his sweet little face. I told him that the ladies at our church made it blue and white since they knew he was a Butler fan. (Aidan was quick to let me know that it's also blue and white for the Colts too!) His Mommy explained to him that this prayer shawl is covered in prayers just for him!

Mike and I were able to sit and talk with Aidan and his family for a little bit. (I used to work with Aidan's Daddy at ChaCha.) Aidan's brother had fun showing us their dog, Molly, and Aidan had fun showing Mike and I a few of his StarWars legos. As we stood in Aidan's kitchen, I saw this poster hanging on one of their doors. One of Aidan's friends made this poster for Aidan. I think it's amazing what kids can "get" and what they can't. Clearly, his friend understood that we're all praying for Aidan's tumor to shrink away!

Before Mike and I left, I asked Aidan if I could take one more picture of him so all of our friends who are praying for him could see his cute little face. His response? "SURE!"

This week Aidan will head back to Riley for a scan to see if the tumor has shrunk from his previous rounds of Chemo. He'll also start his next round of Chemo. As he and his family prepare to head back to the hospital, Mike and I ask that you pray for them. Pray that the tumor has shrunk in size and that God's healing hand is at work in Aidan's body.

Larry, the Coopers Hawk

2010-06-27T22:09:00.002-04:00

We had an exciting day today: Church, setting up for VBS at church, lunch with friends, back to church to finish setting up for VBS, finding a Hawk at church, VBS, quickly tearing down VBS before the rain storm, oh, and did I mention FINDING A HAWK AT CHURCH?????

Mike and I had returned to church after lunch to finish setting up for VBS and I saw a bird setting on the fence post that's near our playground, and where VBS was going to take place. I figured that the closer I walked towards the bird, the more likely he would be to fly away. Well, when I was about a foot away from him, I started to wonder if something was wrong with him because he wasn't flying away. I called Mike over to the fence so he could take a look at him, and of course, grab the camera!

Here are some shots of him on the fence:

I started to feel bad for the little guy because his feet were pretty big and the fence was pretty small. He hadn't tried to fly away at all, which made me believe he might be injured. A bird of his size would not casually sit on a fence post and let humans get that close to him.

Mike ran and found a pretty round (and long... safety first!) tree branch and we were able to get the bird to perch on the branch. It looks a little more stable for him than the fence.

Once he was on the branch, we were able to get a good look at his feet and talons. WOWZA! Those things looks wicked! Here's a close up shot of his talons:

After seeing his feet and knowing we'd have 50+ kids between the ages of 3 and 5th grade running around the playground where he was within an hour, I figured we needed to relocate him for not only his, but also the kids' safety until we could figure out what to do with him. We moved him behind the shelter house on our church property and gave him some other branches to blend in with.

We tried calling the zoo, two different wild life rescues (who wanted to charge us anywhere from $165 - $200 to come and get the bird!) and animal control to see if any of them could pick him up or at least tell us what to do with him. Finally, a friend from church saw my updates on Facebook about the bird, called my cell and told me she had a friend who worked for the DNR and was going to call him. Soon there after, I got a phone call from a lady who works with the DNR on rehabilitating injured birds. She and her husband were going to drive out to the church to take a look at the little guy.

While we waited, Mike, in all of his cleverness, decided to name the bird "Larry." Why Larry? Who knows. But it stuck. We had a number of onlookers at this time, and they all thought Larry was a good name.

Here's another shot of Larry while he waited for the DNR to arrive.

While we waited, Mike and our friend AJ were walking around the playground where we found Larry, and heard other birds. They looked up into the tallest tree in the playground (of course it had to be the tallest - so tall a firetruck ladder wouldn't even reach) and found this nest. Its a little blurry, sorry! You can see another birds tail sticking out of the nest.

The lady with the DNR showed up and said what probably happened was Larry's Momma "kicked" him out of the nest so he could start learning to fend for himself. She just picked the wrong week to kick him out - the week of our VBS. Normally, the DNR would have left Larry be so he could learn bird habits, but because of all of the kids that are going to be around all week at church, they decided for everyone's safety, to take Larry to a Avian Rehab location in Westfield, IN.

We're going to keep in touch with them, and they mentioned to us before leaving that when Larry is ready to be released back to the wild, we could drive up to the facility and watch them release him.

A Margarita Like You've Never Had Before...

2010-06-24T11:41:00.002-04:00

Things have been REALLY (did I say REALLY?) busy lately. After two weeks of back to back travel for work, I finally have a few days at home to catch up on everything that I didn't get done the last month. Trust me, the list is long and keeps growing daily.

In the madness of the last month or so, I came across a recipe that I have to share with you all: Margarita Ice Cream. AH-MAY-ZING is about the only way to describe it. And, the best part? You don't need an ice cream maker to make it!!!! I made it and instantly fell in love. It's VERY creamy, and so not good for you, but as a special treat here and there, I think it's perfect :-)

For those of you who aren't big on adding any alcohol (to make it a true margarita) you can make it with just the lime juice. I've made it a second time and only used lemon juice, and it turned out just as good!

Let me know what you think! Here's the recipe: Margarita Ice Cream

Sweet Addison

2010-05-16T21:49:00.004-04:00

More to come, but here are a few photos of Miss Addison from yesterday. Don't you just want to give her tons of kisses???? She slept nearly the entire time I was at her house yesterday. (Including most of the photo shoot!) I just LOVE this little sweetie pie! It was so sweet to hear my brother calling her "Baby Doll." Almost made me cry!

And incase any of you are wondering.. she loves me too (wink wink)

I'm in a New York state of mind...

2010-05-11T21:40:00.004-04:00

There are two places in this country (so far) that I've fallen completely in love with; both for two completely different reasons: The State of Tennessee and New York City.

I've found myself thinking about New York City a lot lately and how I can NOT wait to go back again. For a few months, I was dropping some not-so-suttle hints to Mike about where I wanted to go for vacation this year. EVERY movie I rented was set in New York City. (There's some pretty hoaky movies that are set in NYC incase you're wondering.)

Well, I have an amazing husband. There's been no 100% guarantees, but I can tell that he's at least considering taking a trip to New York City this fall. With Mike's job, since he's been there for 5 years now, we have the opportunity to "rent" over a weekend one of his company's condos in Midtown Manhattan. HELLO! And for CHEAP! (Lesser expensive than a scummy hotel!)

The last three trips I took to NYC were all for work when I was still at ChaCha. While I was able on the first trip last April to get some of the typical NYC shots in, I didn't get a lot (Just Times Square and some of Central Park.) I want to go back with Mike, not be rushed trying to get from one conference to another, and really enjoy our time together and taking pictures.

Here are some of my favorite photos I took on my previous trips to NYC.

This first photo was taken from the Time & Life Building (across from Radio City Music Hall) when I was in NYC last June. I like it because you can see all of the activity taking place on the street.

This photo needs no introduction: Grand Central Station.

This fine fella was at the bakery my friends took me to on my first night in NYC last April. Mark my words, I will take Mike back to this place. It was AMAZING!

And this last photo is my absolute favorite. Yeah, I know, it's just some random guy playing a violin in the subway tunnels, but don't you just look at this picture and think to yourself, "I want to know his story..." Yeah - me too!

I'm in a New York state of mind...

Riley's LAST Softball Game

2010-05-10T21:26:00.006-04:00

Mike had a softball game tonight and we wanted to try taking Riley with us. We took him to a game last year and soon realized that he was too young to behave at the game (too much going on), so we decided we'd wait another year and try again. Keyword: TRY.

We've come to the decision that in Riley's mind, every ball being thrown, hit, grounded, tossed, etc... was for him and not the softball game. Which also means I got pulled in every direction at the game tonight and am pretty sore.

To distract Riley from the softball game (and to give my shoulders a break) I tried walking with him to the opposite side of the park as the baseball diamonds, but that didn't work because when we got there, someone was playing a tennis game. Yeah.. more balls... this time tennis balls... Riley's FAVORITE! I couldn't get out of there quick enough. I ended up loading Riley up in my car and we drove around the block while we waited for Mike's game to end. He was just too excited about all of the balls.

As Mike and I were driving home after the game, Riley finally calmed down. Apparently going after all those balls (and almost ripping my shoulder out of the socket) made him tired. This video is of Riley falling asleep as we drove home.

e-mealz

2010-04-19T20:00:00.002-04:00

I despise coming home from work, opening the pantry or the fridge and thinking "What am I going to make for dinner?" And, on top of that, Mike and I are trying to watch we we eat, so the question becomes, "What can I make for dinner that's healthy?" Thats the real challenge.

e-mealz to the rescue!

e-mealz creates a meal plan for you. It's based on how many people you want to feed, if you have any dietary restrictions, and the local grocery store nearest you. Mike and I chose the specialty meal plan based on the points system. And I selected WalMart as our local grocery store. In those meal plans, they list out all the food you need for each dinner. It also lists the going price for those products at the store you selected. This is great because if you're on a budget like we are, you can know exactly how much your dinners will cost you for the week!

It costs me $15 to have this service for 4 months. (Actually, I had a coupon code so it really only cost me $12.50. If you want the coupon code, leave me a comment below and I'll send it to you.) Now before you think "She spent $15 for someone to make her meal plans for her?" DARN RIGHT I did! Hey - thats like 5 cups of coffee at Starbucks. I'll give that up in a heartbeat to have someone tell me what to make for dinner every week!

In the long run, it pays off. Here's an example. Normally I spend $125 every week or so at WalMart or Kroger on groceries (that includes breakfast, lunch, and dinners.) Last night, I spent $98 for both of us for the entire week - again - that includes breakfast, lunch, and dinners. The e-mealz plan is dinner for 5 days; but tonight as an example, we had enough left over that it will feed Mike and I for lunch tomorrow. The plan for dinners for this week, based off of our selections cost us $45. HELLO! $45.00 for DINNER for us for the ENTIRE week.

Normally I don't like to push products on my friends, but this one, if you've got the $$ (which, it will actually SAVE you money because you won't be purchasing food you dont need) I would HIGHLY recommend it!!!

Just click on the logo below for e-mealz and it will take you to their site.

My Brother is a Daddy!

2010-04-17T22:25:00.006-04:00

The first grandchild (and great-grandchild) on my side of the family was born today! My brother and his wife welcomed their first daughter, Addison Grace, just before 2:00pm this afternoon. Here's her sweet little face for you all to meet. (I can't get over how much she looks like her daddy!)

Jeremiah 29:11

2010-04-12T21:34:00.003-04:00

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Have you ever had Scripture stuck in your head and can't remember the entire verse? Yeah - that was me tonight. I had to ask Mike if he knew what the verse was because I just couldn't place it. All I could remember was "I know the plans I have for you..." and neither Mike nor I could remember the exact verse, so I looked it up online. When the verse pulled up and I saw Jeremiah 29:11, I thought to myself "OH!"

Earlier today, I was looking at a friend's Facebook page, and he had posted an article about the most misused scripture in the Bible. In all honesty, I was in a bit of a hurry and didn't read the entire article at that time, but I did notice that they were referring to Jeremiah 29:11. So when I saw tonight, that the verse in Jeremiah was the one I was trying to think of, I figured I should read the article. It's a piece in Relevant Magazine. You can read it here: "The Most Misused Verse In The Bible"

The final paragraph of the article, no matter which piece of Scripture anyone is reading, really hit me:

"There are many ways to keep in check our subtle tendencies to twist God’s promises and plans into caricatures of what they really are. We can read the Bible with a greater sensitivity to context. We can open our thoughts about God and Scripture to others. Perhaps the most important way, however, is it to recommit ourselves to seeking God. Seeking God will not always result in fixes for life’s problems. Instead, it will cause us to realize we live within a much bigger story—one in which God resolves the disappointments of life in ways that far exceed our shortened sight."

Get the sillys out!

2010-04-12T01:08:00.004-04:00

Saturday evening after Joey's party and after Mike mowed the lawn (for the first time this year), Riley was doing laps inside the house because he'd been in his crate all afternoon. So we took he and Catie outside to play and as we like to call it, "Get some of their sillys out" (aka tire Riley out so he'll stop running laps in our living room!) The best way to do that? FRISBEE!

Joey's 1st Birthday!

2010-04-11T23:41:00.006-04:00

It's hard to believe the little man is 1 already! Saturday was Joey's First Birthday party. Mike and I were thrilled to be there. (Although, I was getting nervous if I was even going to make it! I had a photo shoot in the morning before Joey's party, and little did I know that it would take me an hour and a half to get home ( a normal 35 minute drive) because traffic on I-70 was moving at 5mph!)

To see more pictures, including Joey eating his Yo Gabba Gabba Birthday cake, click here.

On His Own

2010-04-09T09:58:00.000-04:00

I'd LOVE to know what you think after watching this:

Riley Takes A Leap

2010-04-02T19:59:00.005-04:00

After work tonight, it was so nice out, Mike and I packed up the dogs and went over to Fort Ben. Lucky for us, it was free to get in instead of the normal $5.00. (We need to get a season pass! We've been saying that for 2 years now...)

We did our normal walk around the lake, and when we got to the stairs that walk down to the lake, we stopped at the picnic table and had our dinner. It was beautiful to just sit by the lake and eat. (Not to mention very PEACEFUL! While we were eating, there were two dogs (one was a black lab) on the other side of the lake that were chasing after something in the water. It was fun to watch their dogs swim. If only our black lab would swim...

Mike went and picked up a stick and started throwing it along the trail, and Riley would catch it. After Riley became very interested in the stick, Mike threw it into the lake, and Riley would tiptoe into the water after it. He wouldn't get any deeper than his belly though. So Mike, the dogs, and I walked to a different spot around the lake. We found a block of cement that was surrounded by water, so Mike jumped out on it with Riley. You'll have to watch the video to see the rest:

79 in March????

2010-03-31T18:59:00.008-04:00

We've had some very unusually warm days (no complaints here) the last few weeks. Today it was 79 when I left work. Yes, I said 79 degrees... In Indiana... on March 31. Global Warming? Ummm... YEP!

A few weekends ago, we went down to Matt & Sarah's house for a little while. It was so nice outside, we wanted to take advantage of the weather. And of course, I took the camera! Here are a few pictures of PB&J.

Miss Phoebe doing her version of a head stand and Mr. Blue Eyes Joey:

Life With God

2010-03-30T19:25:00.002-04:00

Life with God from Dan Stevers on Vimeo.

Poor Catie Mae

2010-03-27T15:09:00.004-04:00

This last week Mike and I started to notice a bump forming under Catie's eye. When it first started, I thought maybe she was just bitten by a bug or something and it was just swollen from that, but when it didn't go away, and got bigger and much harder, I got worried. I also noticed she had a bright red rash on part of her body too.

I took Catie to the Vet Friday morning and come to find out the bump on Catie's face is from an abscessed tooth that has become infected. The Vet scared the ba-jee-bers out of me and said that if we don't pull it, it could kill Catie. WHAT?!?!?!?!?!?

Catie Mae has been my "baby girl" for 10 years now! There's NO WAY she's gonna leave me now. NO WAY! I started to tear up at the vet's office when they said that.

The bacteria from the tooth was already in her blood stream, and if they didn't pull her tooth, it could get into her heart and kill her. The bacteria had already spread to her bladder giving her a bladder infection. And it's also the reason why she had a bright red rash.

So Monday we are taking her to the Vet to get two of her teeth pulled and the rest of her teeth cleaned. She'll have to eat soft foods for a week while she adjusts to not having the two biggest teeth in her mouth.

Here are a few pictures of our poor little Catie Mae. The first one, you can kinda see the bump on the right side of her face. (Of course Catie wouldn't let me take a picture of that side of her face!) And the second picture, you can see in her eyes that she doesn't feel good. :-(

Needtobreathe

2010-03-27T09:31:00.006-04:00

I love seeing Mike smile. I saw it a lot on Thursday :-)

Mike got to hang out with the guys from one of his favorite bands, Needtobreathe, on Thursday. They were coming in studio to tape interviews with both of our morning shows, and the producer needed someone to go pick the guys up from their concert venue and drive them back to the studios, so Mike offered.

Here's a pic of Mike and I with 3 of the 4 band members:

Now, for those of you who know Mike, you know he's pretty quiet and reserved. But he made some friends with the guys during their 2 hour visit (and trip to Guitar Center) I was so happy he was able to drive the guys around. It was the least I could do for him, seeing all he's done for me since I took the job :-)

Later Thursday night, we went to their concert. It was an awesome show, and they ended it in probably one of the coolest ways I've EVER seen at a concert. On the very last song, Bear, the lead singer said from the stage that they were going to do everything without the sound system. (The venue only held about 450 people, so it wasn't huge...) So the guys in the band all move to the very front of the stage, all the lights go out except for some spotlights on the guys, and they start singing. It was amazing! The drummer was using the box he was sitting on to "drum". Here's the video I took with my iPhone:

At the end of the concert, Bo, one of the guys in the band, waved to Mike from the stage to say goodbye. I looked at Mike and he had the BIGGEST smile on his face!

It's not "Goodbye"... it's "I'll See You Soon"

2010-03-22T20:16:00.011-04:00

Have you ever had a friend in your life that, even though you maybe didn't talk on a daily basis, or maybe even see each other on a regular basis, you knew, that without a doubt, she was there for you, no matter what, and you there for her no matter what? NO MATTER WHAT? I'm fortunate to have a few friends like that in my life. Some of them from childhood; some of them from my adult life. But no matter how long I've known them, or where I know them from, they have and always been there for me, in so many different ways.

Today, I went to lunch with one of those friends. It wasn't your typical lunch. It was a lunch to say goodbye, although I refused to say goodbye to her. I just said "I'll see you soon" instead. I'm referring to my dear friend, Laura. She, along with her husband Len and two beautiful children, are moving to Africa.

Laura was one of the first friends I made at our church after Mike and I moved to Indy. She lead the youth group and her husband, Len, was the Associate Pastor. She and I quickly became friends after realizing we had so much in common. We had similar backgrounds in schooling, we both shared a passion with working with the youth at our church, we both loved graphic arts and photography, we both loved nature and the outdoors, we both had an interest in politics (I was working for the State GOP at the time...) The list can go on and on...

Laura became the type of friend for me that I didn't have to pick up the phone and call her everyday to know that she was there for me, and to let her know I was there for her. We just had the type of friendship where we just knew - That's the only way I can think to describe it. I looked at Laura as an example on who I wanted to become. She's an awesome person; a loving wife; am amazing mother, but most importantly a woman who was not afraid to show her love for God.

Laura was there for me during the hardest time of my life. She was one of the shoulders I could cry on (and let me tell you, I cried!) I told her today at lunch that the smallest gesture from her, a simple hug on a Sunday at church, has meant more to me than I ever could describe in words. You know the saying "actions speak louder than words"? Laura's hug spoke much louder to me than any words could ever do.

Besides being very involved in our own church, Len & Laura are involved with a ministry called Young Life Africa. The ministry's vision is that every kid in every country on the African continent should meet Jesus Christ. After months and months of prayer, they felt called to go serve this ministry full time, in Africa. Len & Laura make me think of one of my favorite United Methodist hymns, "Here I Am, Lord":

Here I am, Lord. Is it I Lord?
I have heard you calling in the night.
I will go, Lord, if you lead me.
I will hold your people in my heart

Could you imagine packing up your entire life and moving to Africa? Talk about having FAITH in God and following God's call. Mike and I have so much respect for Len & Laura for following the call and putting EVERYTHING they have in God's hands.

While I'm selfishly upset that they won't be here in Indiana, I have to remind myself that they are following God's call and will be touching so many lives while in Africa. If that one small hug from Laura meant so much to me, imagine what she and Len could do in sharing the Gospel with African children? To have God's eternal hug - WOW!

With the wonders of modern technology, we'll still be able to keep in touch. (Thanks Skype!) Laura has started a blog so everyone in the States can follow along with them on their journey. (She's a photographer so I'm also looking forward to the beautiful photos she'll take and post!)

Mike and I ask that you please pray for Len and Laura and their two children; that God is with them every step of the way. They will face some challenges, but the rewards will be waiting for them, as they follow God's call all the way to Africa.

"What if..."

2010-03-21T14:53:00.004-04:00

Last night our church had it's 2nd Annual Church Talent Show. It was a lot of fun, not to mention quite entertaining, last year, so we were all looking forward to it again this year.

Mike and his friend, Kyle, decided to do a song together. I didn't know what song they were going to do until about a week before, but was quite surprised last night when they sang it. The song is called "What If?" by Jadon Lavik.

Here's a video (sorry - I didn't get the first minute of it...) of the guys. Kyle is singing first, and then Mike. You can hear on the video a few "awwws" from the girls that were sitting at the table with Kyle's wife and I.

I think Mike & Kyle did quite well!

Super Riley

2010-03-21T13:39:00.007-04:00

Mike and I took the dogs to the track near our house yesterday. It was so nice outside! We like taking the dogs to the track because of the big open green space in the center of it - it's a great place for Riley to run off leash. (We can't let Catie off of her leash - she'd never come back!) It's also a great place for Riley to play catch with his Frisbee because the space is so open. Here's a video of "Super Riley" catching his Frisbee mid-air.

Riley's New Soccer Ball

2010-03-17T21:32:00.005-04:00

Two years ago today, Mike and I brought home a little black puppy who has become our best friend: Riley. He has so many nick names (Rye Rye, Buddy, Boogie) but the best name, that he holds so true to, is "Man's Best Friend."

We got Riley a new toy this week - a soccer ball. His eyes got sooo big when he saw it! I'm quite positive he had never seen a ball so big... and this dog LOVES balls! Riley LOVES playing with his new soccer ball, but we're only letting him play with it outside since he's so rough with it.

It was so nice outside after work (and still daylight - yes!) that I took Riley out to play with his soccer ball and his other favorite outside toy, his frisbee. Here's a video of Riley playing with his new ball:

Italy, Anyone?

2010-03-14T21:32:00.003-04:00

Mike and I've recently been talking about a nice vacation that we can take together. You wouldn't be surprised that the 3 locations I've mentioned (in no particular order) are:

New York City
The Smokey Mts
Oregon (That's where my Grandma, Aunt, Uncle, and cousins live)

But then I thought, why not save up our money while Mike is in school, and treat ourselves after he graduates to a MAJOR trip? Tuscany? Rome? Florence? Venice? Hmmm...

It's been a busy week

2010-03-10T20:04:00.009-05:00

It's been a busy week, and it's only Wednesday...

Not only am I getting over being sick (story of my life) but we had a MAJOR event at work last night and we WERE (another story) in the process of planning another major event later this month.

Monday was spent on the phone, doing paper work, running errands to pick up various items needed for Tuesdays concert (if you consider drum risers for the band "various" items) and having dinner with the record label. Not to mention that my Mom was staying at our house Monday and Tuesday nights while she was in town for a training for work.

Tuesday I woke up with a fever, but it was the day of the concert, so I went into work anyway. After I left work and went to the concert venue to set up our booths and wait for the band's road manager to show up, I called my boss and asked him to pray for me and my fever to go away. He prayed but he also told me to go home and to bed.

For those of you who know me well, you'll agree with me - that was hard for me to do. I'm a control freak. This concert had pretty much been my "baby." How could I just go home and go to bed the day of the show?? After my co-worker arrived to the venue, I told him what our boss said and that I was going to go home. It was not easy just walking out. NOT easy!

I went home and slept for about 2 1/2 - 3 hours and woke up. The fever was slowly dropping. Praise God! Mike got home from work a little while later and we got stuff together and went over to the venue. Mike and I got to the venue and everything was perfectly fine. (Not that I didn't think it would be...) My co-worker did a great job of holding down the fort while I was at home sleeping off my fever.

After we got to the venue, the band said they needed someone to work their merch table for them. So guess who I grabbed and had work merch for the night? MIKE! He had already taken a lot of photos for me, so it worked out. And he did a GREAT job! I love watching him interact with other people. Mike has such a genuine smile, and he was smiling most of the night last night. It made my heart melt!!!

The concert was great, we had a decent size crowd show up for the free concert (that we only had 1 week to promote) and those who attended had a great evening of worship. After the show was over, we all got to hang out with the band while we were tearing down. Of course we got a big 'ol group shot.

Today we returned the drum risers, (thanks to the wonderful people at our church for letting us borrow them) had lunch with a ministry partner, and got a ton of paper work done at the office! My Mom also stopped by on her way back home, so I gave her a tour of the office.

When I got home, I opened up all the windows and took Riley for a walk. It was BEAUTIFUL! But, as we all know in Indiana, 73 degrees one day, only 40 the next. It's supposed to get cold tomorrow. Grrrr!!!

I made another new recipe tonight. It was delicious and super easy too! Check it out: Bistro Chicken Pasta Salad

Alright, I think that's enough for now! Have a good night!!!

Frankie Bob

2010-03-06T10:25:00.006-05:00

I've had a few people ask me if Frankie Bob is a Maine Coon Cat. My normal response: "No idea. We got him from PetSmart." But after I was asked again last night, I decided to look up information on Maine Coon Cats. I'm now convinced that Frankie Bob is either a beautiful full-blooded Maine Coon, or he's doing an AMAZING job pretending to be one.

Here are the descriptions from the websites that lead me to believe Frankie Bob is a Maine Coon:

Maine Coons are one of the largest breeds of domestic cat. Males weigh anywhere between 15 and 25 lb (Frankie Bob weighs 20 lbs)

The height of adults can vary between 10 and 16 in and they can reach a length of up to 40 in, including the tail, which can reach lengths of up to 14 in. (Frankie Bob is 12 in high, his body (including the tail) is 35 in long (his tail alone is 13 in.)

Long tufts of fur growing between their toes help keep the toes warm (Frankie Bob has TONS of fur between his toes!)

Maine Coons are known as the "gentle giants" and possess above-average intelligence, making them relatively easy to train. (Frankie Bob is one of the only cats that I know comes when his name is called)

They are known for being loyal to their family and cautious—but not mean—around strangers, but are independent and not clingy. (Frankie Bob runs our house, until someone he doesn't know comes in. Then, until he gets to know them, is VERY cautious around them.)

The Maine Coon is generally not known for being a "lap cat" but their gentle disposition makes the breed relaxed around dogs, other cats, and children. They are playful throughout their lives, with males tending to be more clownish. (That's my Frankie Bob, described to a "T")

Many Maine Coons have a fascination with water (Frankie Bob will sit at the sink and meow until we turn on the faucet so he can play with the water. He also likes to walk along the rim of the bathtub when I'm taking a shower.)

So there ya go. I think Frankie Bob fits the description perfectly to be a Maine Coon.

PB&J Kids Etsy Shop

2010-03-03T22:17:00.002-05:00

Our cousin, Sarah, opened up her own Etsy shop this week. (My editorial comment: It's about time!) She is EXTREMELY talented and crafty in everything she does, so I'm very excited for her and have a feeling she's going to be pretty successful. She's got a few things up now, with more to come in the future. She is a whiz at making adorable blankets (You've probably seen some of her creations in some of our photos.)

You can check out her shop here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/pbandjkids

PB & J

2010-03-01T21:23:00.004-05:00

Mike and I got to hang out with Phoebe & Joey awhile back, so of course I had the camera out! These two kiddos can brighten anyone's day. There's something that melts my heart hearing Phoebe yell for her Uncle Mike and then hearing her belly laugh when he sneaks up behind her. And then there's Mr. Joey. It's hard to believe he's going to be a year old already! I remember the day he was born, just like it was yesterday. Where does the time go?

Delish!

2010-03-01T20:30:00.002-05:00

I love finding new recipes that are easy and delicious!! Today, I was trying to find a new recipe to make for dinner, and after reading my friend's blog where she posted a recipe from Kraft Recipe's site, I thought I'd check it out. It was fantastic!

I also ended up downloading the Kraft Recipe app for my iPhone. It gives me my shopping list for the recipes I selected and everything!

Here's the one I made tonight (with a few minor adjustments) and it was DELICIOUS!

better-than-ever beef enchiladas

Instead of the 2% Sharp Cheddar Cheese, I used fat free. For the dressing, I used KRAFT Roasted Red Pepper Italian with Parmesan Dressing instead of the Light Zesty Italian. I also substituted the corn tortillas with whole wheat flower tortillas.

Try it and let me know what you think!!!!

(Next on my recipe list is Apricot-Honey Dijon Chicken. Mmmmm!)

Do You Believe? (No, I'm not talking about Santa Clause!)

2010-02-12T13:47:00.006-05:00

NOTE: I've rewritten this blog entry about 4 different times now, which is why the date says last Friday, but it's really Tuesday that I'm posting this! I started the first version last week, but after hearing the sermon at church Sunday (which Godcidently was about journaling how God has impacted our lives) I had to rewrite some of it.

When I write these blog entries, I do so not only to inform you of what is going on in our lives, but also as a way for Mike and I to keep our memories around for years to come. I honestly didn't think that I would be able to learn from my own entries, but I have.

There are 4 particular entries which I'm referring to, beginning in June of last year:

I Surrender All (6.9.09)

Little did I know how the song "I Surrender All" would impact my life from that point forward... That's pretty much when I started praying to God that if I was supposed to be somewhere else doing his work, then he could let me know when he was ready, because I was!

He Did It Again (10.9.09)

A little insight to this post. Not only was I still working at ChaCha, but I was also working part time on the weekends at a Christian radio station in Indy. When I wrote:

"The God-cidence of it all was where i heard the song, when I heard the song, and who was signing the song."

Where did I hear the song? On Air1 - my current employer (with who I had just started phone interviews with at that point) and also the station that plays the kind of music Mike and I listen to all the time. (The harder Christian music like Skillet, Pillar, Flyleaf, etc...)

When did I hear the song? Two things about "when." 1: I heard this song when I had just begun the interview process for my current job, and I still wasn't sure if going back into radio full-time was the best option for Mike and I - and if it's really where God wanted me to be. I always said if I went back into radio again (after being out of it on a full-time basis for 4 years) that it would have to be a Christian format station because if I was going to work that hard, it was going to be for something I not only cared about, but was also passionate about. 2: I heard the song while driving home from the radio station I was working at, at that time, on the weekends. Fun side note - if I never had worked at that particular station, I would have NEVER found out about my current job.

Who was singing the song? Kutless - one of Mike's absolute favorite bands. Hmmm...

Give It All Away (11.29.09)

As my friend AJ like's to call it - that's a GODSMACK moment. (And no, not the band!) Again, through music I was able to know that God heard my prayers and was answering them.

The other part of the sermon on Sunday was about God testing us. God certainly tested Mike and I during this whole process. (At least we feel like he was!) We had made the decision for me to go to the station and got quite a surprise. Well, not a surprise, but it was a test - a test to see if we really had faith that God would provide if I followed what I felt was a "call" to go serve with the Ministry of KLOVE and Air 1.

Both of the songs mentioned in this post, but particularly "Give It All Away" was the answer to our prayers on what we felt like we were being tested on. If Mike and I put all our faith in God (which we did) he would take care of us. We believe this 100%.

Closing One Door & Opening Another (12.6.09)

After the decision was made for me to leave ChaCha and begin serving with the Ministry of KLOVE and Air1, Mike wrote this song to summarize all of the decisions and emotions we went through.

I’m not showing you these blog entries out of pride or to be boastful by ANY MEANS. Rather, I’m sharing them with you to show how AWESOME our God is and that if we really put all of our FAITH into him, then he can do amazing things through us. The following scripture means more to me now than ever before:

"Jesus asked them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” “Yes, Lord,” they replied.” - Matthew 9:28

So, do YOU believe?

tobyMac

2010-02-09T12:01:00.003-05:00

I've become fond of tobyMac's music. He stopped by our offices today to talk about his new album "Tonight." He's such an amazing, awesome guy with a heart for God like no other.

Here's the preview video for his new album that came out today:

Can't wait to see him in concert again, with Skillet, in March!!!

Riley and the snow

2010-02-06T13:14:00.003-05:00

We learned last winter how much Riley loves to play in the snow, so Mike and I were looking forward to taking the dogs out to play in the snow this morning. Besides being a little chilly, it's beautiful outside (and BRIGHT!!!!) Here's a video of Riley playing in the snow. I don't know if he was having more fun running in it or eating it.

Riley and Catie are both inside with me now while Mike is shoveling off the drive way and Riley is NOT happy about that. He keeps standing at the garage door whining to go out with Mike. Catie, on the other hand, is sprawled out in front of one of the windows and the sun is shining on her.

We took some pictures outside today. Because of the snow drifts, in some spots, the snow is 12 inches deep, and other spots (like our side yard) the snow is only about 1 inch deep. Oh, how i love winter in Indiana! :-) I'll get the photos posted later on.

Need a Smile? This will help :-)

2010-01-28T22:18:00.000-05:00

My sweet Bianca, I LOVE YOU!

She is SOOOOO Creative

2010-01-28T21:54:00.003-05:00

Without sounding biased, I do believe that my niece, Bella, is one of the smartest and most creative little girls I know! When she was at our house last weekend, she out of the blue said "Aunt Beth, can I make some maracas?" I stood there and thought to myself how in the world would we make those? We have nothing creative and artsy at our house. (That's down the street at Matt & Sarah's. LOL.) Well, leave it to Bella. After I asked her how we would make them, she pointed to the water bottles on our counter and said "We can use those. Now only if you had some sand..." Well, as you can imagine, we had no sand, but, we did have rice! So Isabella and I poured rice into two bottles, taped them shut, and wa-la, we had two maracas! Here she is playing her maracas:

Pretty creative if I can say so myself :-)

'Lil Piano Playing Phoebe

2010-01-28T20:31:00.002-05:00

Phoebe got to hang out with us for a little bit at our house tonight and she LOVED the piano. I think she might be a future 'lil piano player :-)

YOU KNOW YOU ARE LIVING IN 2010 when...

2010-01-07T11:49:00.001-05:00

I normally don't send on forwards, but this one was too funny... because it's all true! I've done them all (including the pulling up in the driveway...)

YOU KNOW YOU ARE LIVING IN 2010 when...

1. You accidentally enter your password on the microwave.

2. You haven't played solitaire with real cards in years.

3. You have a list of 15 phone numbers to reach your family of 3.

4. You e-mail the person who works at the desk next to you.

5. Your reason for not staying in touch with friends and family is that they don't have e-mail addresses.

6. You pull up in your own driveway and use your cell phone to see if anyone is home to help you carry in the groceries.

7. Every commercial on television has a web site at the bottom of the screen or “text xxxxx to xxxxx”

8. Leaving the house without your cell phone, which you didn't have the first 20 or 30 years of your life, is now a cause for panic and you turn around to go and get it.

10. You get up in the morning and go on line before getting your coffee.

11. You start tilting your head sideways to smile. : )

12. You're reading this and nodding and laughing.

An entry that's 6 months overdue (oops!)

2010-01-05T23:24:00.004-05:00

Remember back in June when I wrote about my brother and I being in NYC at the same time? (If ya didn't read it back then, don't worry, you can read it now... wink, wink.) My brother and I took a LOT of pictures as we walked throughout New York City, but I never had a chance to do anything but upload those shots to my computer after we returned.

Well, now that life has slowed down just a wee bit, and after being reminded of NYC on New Years Eve watching the ball drop (and soooo wishing that Mike and I were there) I decided it was time to take a peek at some of those shots from 6 months ago.

Looking at these shots reminded me of the fun my brother and I had, even if it was just one afternoon and evening. It was a day I'll never forget. I think it was the first time in YEARS that my brother and I were able to hang out, just the two of us, doing something together that we both enjoyed. Love ya Bubba! (Yes Mom, you can wipe away your tears now...)

Here are some of my favorites from our adventure on 6/23/09:

This horse was sitting at the entrance to Central Park. I just thought he looked interesting.

This sign was sitting outside a cute little eatery inside Central Park. My brother and I almost stopped here to eat, but we wanted to get more shots in before the sun went down.

There were park benches all throughout Central Park. This particular bench was across from the Carousel. I thought the plaque was pretty neat :)

Here's a post that stood next to the Carousel. It had very intricate designs that I thought were beautiful.

I'm sure many of you have seen this shot of Central Park in numerous movies. I wish I could have gotten closer to the couple towards the front of the image w/o looking like a goof...

...pretty self explanatory... lol...

I LOVE that there is a DOG with his owner at the hot DOG stand :-)

For those of you who know my brother, then you'll understand why I have a few shots of this store. (Gotta admit, I'm turning into an Apple geek myself... Thanks Bubz!) One is from the front of the store and the second is from behind the entrance to the store. If you've never been there, it's AH-MAY-ZING! You go underground to enter the store... pretty cool...

Well, hopefully it won't take me 6 months next time to put up photos from fun trips with my brother. Although, 6 months from now, I'll be EXCITED to put up photos of my brothers soon to be little baby!!! (Due April 30) Can't wait!

Riley's New Trick

2010-01-01T22:16:00.004-05:00

Sorry about the audio... not sure why it has the "snap, crackle, and pop" going on....

Merry Christmas.. err...Happy New Year

2010-01-01T21:30:00.010-05:00

Seeing that it's now January 1, 2010, I'm a bit late in posting our Christmas greeting to you all. Oops!

This December has probably been the busiest for Mike and I since we got married 4 years ago. (Best 4 years of my life!!!) Starting a new job during the Holidays always makes things interesting, but in a good way! So, please excuse the lateness of this, but here is our Christmas card for 2009:

Mike took all of the letter pictures to form "Merry Christmas" He spent nearly 2 months working on it. I think he did a pretty good job, if I can say so myself :-)

We also did letter collages for our families for Christmas:

Mike and I were truly blessed in 2009, and we're very excited to see what 2010 has in store for us. Between me at a new job (which is AMAZING in case you were wondering), and Mike going back to school in a few weeks, 2010 is going to be very busy, but exciting at the same time. God has called Mike and I both into two new fields, but we both feel that these are where we are supposed to be (or will be...) Thank you to all of you for your love and friendship over the years. We pray that 2010 will be an amazing year for each and every one of you!

Closing One Door & Opening Another

2009-12-06T18:36:00.004-05:00

Mike plays guitar and sings on our praise team at church. This morning before church started, Mike pulled me aside and handed me a folded up piece of paper and said, "Open this note after we start playing, and not before." Right after that he joined the rest of the praise team and went up on the stage. As soon as they started playing, I unfolded the note and read it. It said "I wrote this song for you." I teared up, but with a giant smile on my face.

Here's the song Mike wrote:

Through the down times, I trust You to provide
Through my troubles, You'll be there by my side
And the path may not be clear
And the journey will be fierce
But Your endless grace will ease all of my fears

More than gold
More than silver
More than anything this world has in store
I want to serve You
I want to please You
The treasure you hold is worth so much more

Through my failures, Your grace will help me cope
Through the heartache, Your love will help me cope
And I know You know what's best
And by that I can confess
That it's only by Your Son that I am blessed

More than gold
More than silver
More than anything this world has in store
I want to serve You
I want to please You
The treasure you hold is worth so much more

All You want is all of me
Let me be an offering
Lord please take my days
Use them only for Your praise

More than gold
More than silver
More than anything this world has in store
I want to serve You
I want to please You
The treasure you hold is worth so much more

A little background on the song: The last month or so, I've had a lot on my heart about my work situation, not knowing if where I am currently was where I was supposed to be, or if God had different plans for me. Mike and I prayed... a lot... and we finally decided that God did have other plans for me. Mike wrote this song about the prayers we said and the final decision that we made together about me taking a new job and leaving my current job. While closing one door and opening another, the opportunity to serve God through my soon to be new employer is exciting. I can't wait!

Thank you Mike, for such a beautiful song. I'm so excited that we can open this new door together! I love you!!

The Moon

2009-12-03T23:16:00.003-05:00

I went to let Catie and Riley out back tonight and looked up and thought, "Oh my! I need my camera!" So as soon as the dogs were done, I ran and got my camera. I didn't have time to mess with the tripod, so this isn't crystal clear (sorry) but I just couldn't get over the clouds around the moon tonight!

"Give It All Away"

2009-11-29T21:57:00.003-05:00

It's been a long weekend for me - and not because of the holiday weekend. (Although that was the enjoyable part of the long weekend!)

I've had sooo much on my heart and mind this weekend that I've spent a LOT of time on my knees and in prayer. I've been praying for some answers from God and once again he spoke to me through music - two times this weekend with two different songs. But the one that has really left me thinking, I had never heard before. I was looking for a completely different song on YouTube and this song came up first. Coincidence? No. Godcidence.

"Give It All Away" by Aaron Shust

"Search my heart, search my mind, search my soul
Make me clean, make me new make me whole

All of my plans, all of my dreams, I lay them down before Your feet
All of my time, all that was mine, I now submit to Your design
'Cause You are the one who can make my life complete
You are the one who can give light to my feet
You are the one and only one who dared to give it all away for me

You are my strength, You are my God, you are my King
You make me laugh, You make me dance, You make me sing

Everything inside, everything outside, I give it all away
You never change, but You rearrange my heart more everyday"

I don't think God could be speaking any louder to me than he did through that song. Wow! Thank you God, Thank you!

"No Wonder"

2009-11-28T20:33:00.004-05:00

Tonight, all of the kids from our church put on their Christmas musical called "No Wonder." ALL of the kids did an excellent job, and Mike and I were so thrilled we could go watch.

One of our good friends son played one of the 3 Wise Men in the musical. He was so cute because his crown wouldn't stay on straight. Here's a photo of while they were singing and one of him after the musical. He's just so cute, I had to share this :-)

Sam

2009-11-11T11:49:00.003-05:00

Yesterday would have been Mike and I's nephew's 3rd Birthday. We love and miss Sam more than words could ever say. We know he's one of the angel's that has been watching over all of us the last few years.

In honor of Sam's 3rd Birthday, his Mom (Mike's sister) made this video tribute to him, and I wanted to share it with everyone:

The Picture Says It All

2009-10-20T23:03:00.006-04:00

Mike and I were doing 2 photo shoots on Saturday (when it was a whopping 40 degrees outside) and after the 2nd shoot, I told him I wanted to get some pictures of him. I'm always taking pictures of everyone else, but I didn't have any good ones of him. So after some convincing he finally let me take his picture. Here is my absolute favorite picture:

I look at this picture and think of our first dance after we got married and the song that played:

"The smile on your face
lets me know that you need me
There's a truth in your eyes
sayin' you'll never leave me
The touch of your hand
says you'll catch me if ever I fall
You say it best
when you say nothing at all"

But the funny thing? This picture says it all.

I love you Mike!

He did it again...

2009-10-09T20:42:00.005-04:00

I've got this cool relationship with God. For some people, he speaks to them through scripture. For others, it's through prayer. For me, it's through music. I've had a lot on my heart this week, and Mike and I have been praying quite a bit. Well, God did it again. He let me know he was there and heard our prayers through music.

Driving home from the station tonight, I was channel surfing on the radio and a song came on that I hadn't heard yet by one of Mike's favorite bands, Kutless. The God-cidence of it all was where i heard the song, when I heard the song, and who was signing the song. The part of the song that stands out the most to me is the 2nd verse:

"It doesn’t matter what you’ve heard
Impossible is not a word
It’s just a reason for someone not to try
Everybody’s scared to death
When they decide to take that step
Out on the water
It’ll be alright
Life is so much more
Than what your eyes are seeing
You will find your way
If you keep believing"

God listens to our prayers. Sometimes he doesn't answer them immediately, but he will answer them in his time. After a conversation with a friend today, and now hearing this song, I know God heard my prayer. He just wanted to answer it when he felt it was right.

You can listen to the song here:

Ellen Loves ChaCha!

2009-10-03T23:16:00.002-04:00

We had a nice surprise at work on Friday - Ellen Degeneres talked about ChaCha in her opening monologue! We had NO idea she was going to do this, so it was a wonderful surprise. Here is a small snipit of her talking about ChaCha:

Tuttle Orchards

2009-09-28T10:22:00.003-04:00

On Saturday, Mike and I went to Tuttle Orchards with Matt, Sarah, Phoebe, and Joey. Earlier that morning, the weather was tricking us into thinking it would be a nice cool fall afternoon. Not so much. It ended up getting into the mid 70's and we were all pretty hot, but besides the heat, it was a lot of fun!

We all picked apples (ate a few apples while picking them) and had fun with the other activities. Later that evening, Sarah made some delicious homemade apple crisp with the apples from the orchard. Yesterday, Mike and I made homemade applesauce with the apples we got from the orchard. I think we're going to be going back for more apples!

Here are some photos from our trip to the orchard:

Upcoming Witness Concert

2009-09-13T17:07:00.001-04:00

God's Country

2009-09-10T21:21:00.003-04:00

This past weekend, Mike and I took a trip to what I like to call God's Country: The Smokey Mountains. I had been there before with my family while growing up (The good 'ol Crazy Horse Campground) but things always seem a bit different when you're older. I think I appreciated different things this time. Wasn't too excited about Pigeon Forge or downtown Gatlinburg at all... I wanted to get beyond all the touristy stuff.

The main reason we were there was to shoot a wedding on Saturday, which was beautiful! On Sunday, it was "Family Free Day" and all of the families were able to go off and do their own thing. Mike and I knew we wanted to go into the mountains, but we wern't sure if we wanted to visit Cades Cove or the Newfound Gap. We decided on Cades Cove. I fell in love...

I realized how much I loved it when we were driving home from TN: We had stopped at a Red Box in KY (where it was still VERY hilly - mountains compared to IN) and rented a DVD that I watched almost the rest of the way home. When the movie finished, I looked up and there were no mountains. There were flat cornfields. I wanted to cry.

I know Mike and I have been fortunate enough to travel many places throughout the U.S. between personal vacations and my work travel, and I've always enjoyed everyplace we went (well - all except L.A. I have NO desire to go back there...) but I think my heart will always be in TN.

I'm quite sure we'll never end up in TN to live (although that would be my dream) but I'll settle for a yearly trip down there, and a few Christmas vacations down there... you know... a Tennessee Christmas. (And now I have Amy Grant's "Tennessee Christmas" in my head...)

Here are a few pictures that Mike and I took with more to come.

ChaCha featured on NBC Nightly News

2009-09-07T18:44:00.001-04:00

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

The Reds are awful

2009-08-17T14:51:00.005-04:00

But that at least means that plenty of people leave early so we can move closer, which of course means better pics.

"This Little Light of Mine..."

2009-08-04T21:34:00.004-04:00

Never before have I been so reminded of one of my childhood Vacation Bible School songs as I have been this week. Its a song I learned growing up, but never gave much thought to the significance of the lyrics and what they really were saying. Well, I've been singing it to myself this week and I now understand the significance to the lyrics and it has brought me more comfort than I ever could have imagined.

This little light of mine
I'm gonna let it shine
This little light of mine
I'm gonna let it shine
This little light of mine
I'm gonna let it shine
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!

Don't let satan blow it out
I'm gonna let it shine
Don't let satan blow it out
I'm gonna let it shine
Don't let satan blow it out
I'm gonna let it shine
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!

God is good, ALL the time!

NYC PS22 Kids can SING!!!

2009-08-01T22:32:00.002-04:00

WOW! Listen to the Kids at NYC PS22 sing "Landslide" This is just... beautiful... WOW!