Ok girls, here’s your educational experience for the week…yes, I’m bored!
Lesson #1 – table etiquette:
On the last Wednesday of each August, the town of Bunol, Spain draws 40,000 people for the festival “La Tomatina” This is the biggest tomato fight in the world! They bring in over 100 tons of plum tomatoes and spend over 24,960 euros for this festival. The tomatoes are dropped by the truckload and young people dash all around smashing them and throwing them about. Why?! Well, they say it started in the 1940’s from a battle between friends.
So I found myself asking if this was something they all looked forward to – ruining a good pair of clothing every August, etc. Apparently this is mostly celebrated by the “human degenerates” and this all night public revelry is frowned upon for the rest of the year.
Lesson #2 – religion:
Devout Hindu’s have just celebrated the birthday/re-incarnation day of Lord Krishna. The day of celebration is the 27th of August but most school children celebrate in the days before by doing performances in their schools where they get to dress up like royalty and the Hindu god, Krishna. They play music and act out the life of this god. Here’s the strangest part. People all over (including blind children) form human pyramids to reach a clay pot filled with butter. When they reach this pot, they break it and the butter comes spilling down. Why!? Lord Krishna and his friends used to steal butter like this from villagers back in his day. This festival is called “Janmashtami” oh yes, and this god is believed to be purple…
So much you can learn from the internet!!
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Hurricanes, typos, and manicures
Yes, it is very much a Wednesday today, isn't it? I'm glad to know that most of us are all equally obsessed with this blog. Maybe we should come up with an educational purpose for it -- so we actually have a good excuse to tell our bosses when we're blogging like half the day. Or, maybe not. :p
I splurged a bit yesterday and got a manicure...it was lovely. I've never actually had one, but I've decided to make it my new addiction. I mean, if I give up like 3 lattes, that covers the cost, right? It's so worth the money to me...if only just to get that hand massage...ahhh.
Yeah, I've also been quite emotional over the Hurricane Katrina tragedy. It's the same effect the tsumani had on me -- I can barely even watch the news or read an article about it without crying (they had the news on during my manicure and I couldn't even wipe the tears from my face without messing up my nails! I'm sure I looked pretty ridiculous). I really want to do something...it's times like this that I wish I was rich so I could just give away money. Or that I had some kind of medical training...I guess prayer is my only weapon against it right now -- not that it's not a powerful weapon; I'm sure you all know what I mean. It's quite tragic -- I don't know anyone in the area, but I feel like I do. I've just never seen anything like that actually in America before...I mean, since 9/11, but that was a brutal attack by other people, and they're calling this a terrible act of God. I don't exactly like that phrase, but I suppose it's what many people see natural disasters as being. Anyway, let's all say a little prayer for those people -- I can't even imagine what they are going through right now.
I guess the hurricane is now a tropical depression and it's going through Ohio right now. My sister said it's raining like crazy, and there are supposed to be some tornados sooner or later. Yeah, I've decided that I'm not a fan of hurricanes.
Jen, that's great news about Chris feeling better. I'm sure that was very scary for you.
Angie, I'm sure everything will come together beautifully for your wedding! It can be very stressful, though. Just keep plowing through...it's all worth it in the end!
Hey, Juls -- any chance of you taking another trip to Ohio in say, October?? I'm going to be there the 5th through 11th. Or maybe you could just leave Seth there when you go visit and I'll bring him back with me?? :p
Well, enough dilly-dallying. I'm off to save the world...or at least correct some horrible typos.
Love to you all!
I splurged a bit yesterday and got a manicure...it was lovely. I've never actually had one, but I've decided to make it my new addiction. I mean, if I give up like 3 lattes, that covers the cost, right? It's so worth the money to me...if only just to get that hand massage...ahhh.
Yeah, I've also been quite emotional over the Hurricane Katrina tragedy. It's the same effect the tsumani had on me -- I can barely even watch the news or read an article about it without crying (they had the news on during my manicure and I couldn't even wipe the tears from my face without messing up my nails! I'm sure I looked pretty ridiculous). I really want to do something...it's times like this that I wish I was rich so I could just give away money. Or that I had some kind of medical training...I guess prayer is my only weapon against it right now -- not that it's not a powerful weapon; I'm sure you all know what I mean. It's quite tragic -- I don't know anyone in the area, but I feel like I do. I've just never seen anything like that actually in America before...I mean, since 9/11, but that was a brutal attack by other people, and they're calling this a terrible act of God. I don't exactly like that phrase, but I suppose it's what many people see natural disasters as being. Anyway, let's all say a little prayer for those people -- I can't even imagine what they are going through right now.
I guess the hurricane is now a tropical depression and it's going through Ohio right now. My sister said it's raining like crazy, and there are supposed to be some tornados sooner or later. Yeah, I've decided that I'm not a fan of hurricanes.
Jen, that's great news about Chris feeling better. I'm sure that was very scary for you.
Angie, I'm sure everything will come together beautifully for your wedding! It can be very stressful, though. Just keep plowing through...it's all worth it in the end!
Hey, Juls -- any chance of you taking another trip to Ohio in say, October?? I'm going to be there the 5th through 11th. Or maybe you could just leave Seth there when you go visit and I'll bring him back with me?? :p
Well, enough dilly-dallying. I'm off to save the world...or at least correct some horrible typos.
Love to you all!
It never ends!
I've been feeling a little overwhelmed with wedding stuff lately, but it's my own fault cause I went away so much this summer. Now everything is about to come crashing down on me and I have keep my head above water so I don't suffocate... Ok, its not that bad, but I am making a lot of decisions this week re the wedding and its the stress of making the right decision that is making me feel this way. I'm sure everything will fall into place when it comes down to it.
I have to agree with the comments about Tuesday, and it also reminded me of a wise saying from my former roommate (Elisha), "It's Tuesday night, the week is almost over!" I miss her...
I'm pretty bummed that yesterday was not one of those days that I checked the blog every 5 minutes, cause I usually do (Steph you are not alone :p)... I would have liked to get in on that whole conversation.
Jen - I too feel for those people in New Orleans. It's gotta be tough to not know what to do next. There doesn't seem to be an end in sight with all the flooding and water that is still pouring into the city. What devastation!
Anyway... I better get back to the hum drum I call a job... so much to do, as usual.
I have to agree with the comments about Tuesday, and it also reminded me of a wise saying from my former roommate (Elisha), "It's Tuesday night, the week is almost over!" I miss her...
I'm pretty bummed that yesterday was not one of those days that I checked the blog every 5 minutes, cause I usually do (Steph you are not alone :p)... I would have liked to get in on that whole conversation.
Jen - I too feel for those people in New Orleans. It's gotta be tough to not know what to do next. There doesn't seem to be an end in sight with all the flooding and water that is still pouring into the city. What devastation!
Anyway... I better get back to the hum drum I call a job... so much to do, as usual.
Wednesday - Hump-day
Hey gals!
Yes, I also feel compelled to check the Blog every half hour or so (Kim and Steph)! Chris has just left his heart specialist and for now all looks fine. We don't know what happened but he is doing increasingly better and gaining energy. Thanks for your prayers!
Is anyone else completely depressed about New Orleans? I just cannot believe that all of those people's homes are ruined, they are jobless, and have no where to go. Could you imagine! A great flood coming through and tearing apart your home, destructing your office building, sweeping your cars away and being forced to sleep in a duper-dome. Then to find out they are forcing you out of the city all together and taking you to Texas for shelter. What would you do? I know what I'd do, I'd say the heck with the coast, I'm moving to Kansas! No hurricanes there!
So it's wednesday and the last day of the month. I'm bored already! Several of my large accounts feel through for this month as of yesterday. We had a decent month but were expecting so much more. Any car dealership is not concerned with getting ProMax today (our software) as they are trying to sell as many cars for this month as possible. So we pretty much hang out until next week sometime when the dealers have time for us again. Needless to say I'll be checking the Blog every 10 minutes today...
hope you're all having a beautiful morning!
Yes, I also feel compelled to check the Blog every half hour or so (Kim and Steph)! Chris has just left his heart specialist and for now all looks fine. We don't know what happened but he is doing increasingly better and gaining energy. Thanks for your prayers!
Is anyone else completely depressed about New Orleans? I just cannot believe that all of those people's homes are ruined, they are jobless, and have no where to go. Could you imagine! A great flood coming through and tearing apart your home, destructing your office building, sweeping your cars away and being forced to sleep in a duper-dome. Then to find out they are forcing you out of the city all together and taking you to Texas for shelter. What would you do? I know what I'd do, I'd say the heck with the coast, I'm moving to Kansas! No hurricanes there!
So it's wednesday and the last day of the month. I'm bored already! Several of my large accounts feel through for this month as of yesterday. We had a decent month but were expecting so much more. Any car dealership is not concerned with getting ProMax today (our software) as they are trying to sell as many cars for this month as possible. So we pretty much hang out until next week sometime when the dealers have time for us again. Needless to say I'll be checking the Blog every 10 minutes today...
hope you're all having a beautiful morning!
nothing much
Hey there. I really don't have anything much to say today. There is not really any new or exciting information. I agree with Kim and Steph about Tuesdays. But I would like to include Wednesday and Thursday in there too. Those days have never seemed to have much purpose to me either. Or maybe they have a purpose and I just always found them boring. Anyways, I'm very excited to to see you too Steph! I can't wait. It's so rare I have something fun to do. Although, I am going to Ohio next week to visit my grandma. While the purpose for the visit is not fun (because she has cancer and I want to to make sure Seth and I get some time with her), it will still be fun to be with family. I'll have someone to talk to during the day aside from my blog. =) Not that I don't loving blogging with you girls... But it would be nice to have someone's voice talk back every once in a while. I also check this thing way to often because it is significantly more interesting than Sesame Street or watching Jacob (the little boy I babysit for during the week) smear drool across my couch and everything else in my house. I have to admit that having kids around all the time is a bit of a challenge to my obsessive compulsive tendencies. Particularly the tendency towards obsessive cleanliness. Oh well. It can't be avoided I guess. Well, I'd better go. Talk to you all later!
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Yay, Tuesday!
Yes, Steph, I agree with the Tuesday stigma. It seems every other day of the week serves some kind of purpose. I do feel kind of bad for Tuesday -- it kind of gets left out.
Ok, so can anyone else tell I'm avoiding work with a passion right now? Actually, it's a slow day here in junk mail land, so I'm just hanging out checking the blog every 2 seconds and reading my book while I wait for work. The cool thing about it is I still get paid even when I'm sitting here doing nothing. It doesn't happen often, let me tell you, but it's nice when it does. I can more easily justify shopping sprees when I think back and realize I didn't actually do any work for the money I'm spending. But on the other hand, I can only sit here and stare out my window for so long before I start nodding off...it's a conundrum, that's for sure. I keep thinking of all the laundry that needs done, and the kitchen to be cleaned, and on and on...but I know that if I were to go home right now, those things probably wouldn't be getting done either.
Has anyone seen any good movies lately? I'm in a movie kind of mood and Adam and his coworkers are moving into their new office tonight. So that means I can go rent anything I want...chick flick or no. Hmm. Maybe a date with a Friends dvd is what I need.
Hope you're all having days of endless excitement and fun!
Ok, so can anyone else tell I'm avoiding work with a passion right now? Actually, it's a slow day here in junk mail land, so I'm just hanging out checking the blog every 2 seconds and reading my book while I wait for work. The cool thing about it is I still get paid even when I'm sitting here doing nothing. It doesn't happen often, let me tell you, but it's nice when it does. I can more easily justify shopping sprees when I think back and realize I didn't actually do any work for the money I'm spending. But on the other hand, I can only sit here and stare out my window for so long before I start nodding off...it's a conundrum, that's for sure. I keep thinking of all the laundry that needs done, and the kitchen to be cleaned, and on and on...but I know that if I were to go home right now, those things probably wouldn't be getting done either.
Has anyone seen any good movies lately? I'm in a movie kind of mood and Adam and his coworkers are moving into their new office tonight. So that means I can go rent anything I want...chick flick or no. Hmm. Maybe a date with a Friends dvd is what I need.
Hope you're all having days of endless excitement and fun!
Tuesday...
Not to sound weird or anything, but does anyone else find that Tuesdays are just sort of a "filler" day? It like the day that kind of gets shoved in there because there's space and we need another day to get stuff done.
Sorry...
So, I really don't have a lot to say today, except that I think its absolutely pathetic the amount of times I check this darn site everyday. Kim can identify with me when I say that for me, I do about 5-10 minutes of work, check the blog, do about 2 minutes of work, blog. It goes on like this all morning until there's lunch, and then I think, ohmygoodness I bet someone blogged as I scurry back to my office just to check one quick time before my afternoon meeting. I know, I know...I'm sad, but secretly I hope that there are others of you out there, too....
Apparently my summer travelling "bug" has spread into the fall as I am preparing to go to Tulsa this weekend and then I have to fly to MN for a family thing at then end of this month. Goal for October 2005: Be in Chicago every weekend. Hmmm, what a concept.
Juls - I have to tell you that I thoroughly enjoyed our little conversation last night! It was so good to hear your voice and I can't wait to just hang out this weekend!
Just FYI (as my blog is pretty full of random thoughts today...) if anyone needs a good CD to listen to, I highly recommend Jason Mraz's new album - Mr. A-Z. There's a song or two on there that I'm not particularly fond of, but for the most part its really cool and catchy. My favorite is a song colled Life is Wonderful...its #1 on the CD...Check it out...
Ok, back to work...Have a magnificent rest of Tuesday, Ladies!
Sorry...
So, I really don't have a lot to say today, except that I think its absolutely pathetic the amount of times I check this darn site everyday. Kim can identify with me when I say that for me, I do about 5-10 minutes of work, check the blog, do about 2 minutes of work, blog. It goes on like this all morning until there's lunch, and then I think, ohmygoodness I bet someone blogged as I scurry back to my office just to check one quick time before my afternoon meeting. I know, I know...I'm sad, but secretly I hope that there are others of you out there, too....
Apparently my summer travelling "bug" has spread into the fall as I am preparing to go to Tulsa this weekend and then I have to fly to MN for a family thing at then end of this month. Goal for October 2005: Be in Chicago every weekend. Hmmm, what a concept.
Juls - I have to tell you that I thoroughly enjoyed our little conversation last night! It was so good to hear your voice and I can't wait to just hang out this weekend!
Just FYI (as my blog is pretty full of random thoughts today...) if anyone needs a good CD to listen to, I highly recommend Jason Mraz's new album - Mr. A-Z. There's a song or two on there that I'm not particularly fond of, but for the most part its really cool and catchy. My favorite is a song colled Life is Wonderful...its #1 on the CD...Check it out...
Ok, back to work...Have a magnificent rest of Tuesday, Ladies!
thanks for the address
Hey girl! Thank you for sending your address, Liz. I'm glad to you all had a pretty good weekend. I hope you recoup from your weekend quickly, Ang. I didn't do much this weekend. Josh's sister was supposed to babysit Seth for us on Saturday night so that we could go on a date. But, she got sick. So we didn't get to go on our date. Jennifer, we will be praying for you and Chris. That is very scary! I'm sure he is fine. But I understand your stress. Keep us posted and let us know if you need anything. Seth is doing well. He's growing and discovering. His latest discovery is his lips and voice. He just spits with his lips constantly. I think he likes the feeling when they vibrate. He's also discovered that his voice can make this high-pitched, squawking, screeching scream. And he does it all the time. It's his favorite game. Every time I hear it, a chill shoots from the base of my spine up to my skull. It's not my favorite noise he can make. He has also decided he doesn't need a nap today. So, I'm going to have to go now because he's trying to suck on the computer. Love you guys! Enjoy your hanky panky!
the not-so "hanky-panky"
Hey girls!
Well, yesterday I experienced my first mega-scare as a wife. Chris was home most of the day feeling very tired and worn out. So he slept most of the day and tried to do some minimal things. Thinking it was just a bug, I reported home after a long day at about 9PM. Work, rehearsal, grocery shopping, etc... I was a bit angry that the dishwasher had not been emptied as my husband had of course just been sitting there all day. SLAP in the face! So, we started chatting about stuff I did that day and I asked him how he felt. He said "promise not to freak out?" which of course sent me in to FREAK-OUT mode! He was having some of the same symptoms he had experienced last time his heart went into "A-fib". If you haven't seen E.R. enough to know what that is :) ... it's when part of the heart stops working. Kind of made me feel stupid for worrying about the dishwasher! So off he went this morning to the doctor. They monitored his heart for a while and did lots of blood tests. Heart looks fine from what they can see now. No heart attack and all enzymes look normal. Tomorrow he goes in to his heart specialist. Hopefully we can find out something more then.
So Kimmie, when you say you've felt like a real wife lately... I'm right there with ya!
Meanwhile, my grandparents are turning 80 next month and there's a very LARGE party to plan! I've been put in charge of cake and truffles, along with creating the scrapbook after the event. Yesterday I ordered $150 worth of cake, which is of course NOTHING compared to a wedding cake :) but still a lot of cake!
The homefront is starting to look like a home. I have finally gained control of the living room and it is continualy clean. It doesn't look quite alright because it's never been clean before... but i like it! We have pictures on the walls in 3 rooms now - kitchen, living, and bedroom. it's very exciting :)
Now it's time for lunch.
Well, yesterday I experienced my first mega-scare as a wife. Chris was home most of the day feeling very tired and worn out. So he slept most of the day and tried to do some minimal things. Thinking it was just a bug, I reported home after a long day at about 9PM. Work, rehearsal, grocery shopping, etc... I was a bit angry that the dishwasher had not been emptied as my husband had of course just been sitting there all day. SLAP in the face! So, we started chatting about stuff I did that day and I asked him how he felt. He said "promise not to freak out?" which of course sent me in to FREAK-OUT mode! He was having some of the same symptoms he had experienced last time his heart went into "A-fib". If you haven't seen E.R. enough to know what that is :) ... it's when part of the heart stops working. Kind of made me feel stupid for worrying about the dishwasher! So off he went this morning to the doctor. They monitored his heart for a while and did lots of blood tests. Heart looks fine from what they can see now. No heart attack and all enzymes look normal. Tomorrow he goes in to his heart specialist. Hopefully we can find out something more then.
So Kimmie, when you say you've felt like a real wife lately... I'm right there with ya!
Meanwhile, my grandparents are turning 80 next month and there's a very LARGE party to plan! I've been put in charge of cake and truffles, along with creating the scrapbook after the event. Yesterday I ordered $150 worth of cake, which is of course NOTHING compared to a wedding cake :) but still a lot of cake!
The homefront is starting to look like a home. I have finally gained control of the living room and it is continualy clean. It doesn't look quite alright because it's never been clean before... but i like it! We have pictures on the walls in 3 rooms now - kitchen, living, and bedroom. it's very exciting :)
Now it's time for lunch.
Monday, August 29, 2005
Eye strain
Hello, all...
Sorry I've missed a few days on here. I've been working at my "real job", as Adam fondly calls it -- editing flyers and mailers. It's going well, but is tiring. I forgot what an 8-5, 40-hour work week feels like! I feel for you, girls! The work is interesting, but straining on my poor little eyes. So this short break is much needed!
I guess there's nothing new to report, otherwise. Things are going well out on the West Coast. The weather has been lovely -- cloudy and breezy and cool (I can't believe I'm actually happy about clouds) so we've been doing a lot of exploring. Saturday we hopped ferries from island to island, seeing the sights and just getting away from the city. It was very relaxing.
It seems like things are going a little better with my parents...they're talking again and seem to be making some headway with their relationship. But things are very much on a rollercoaster ride right now with them. Who knows how long until it dips down again. I don't want to sound cynical, but there is a lot of junk they have to work through.
I miss you girls! I agree with Steph about relationships greatly defining me. I've become very much a wife lately, which has been great, but I'm also praying for some girlfriend-type relationships to come along. Not that anyone could ever replace my Sapphires! But I'm sure you all can relate. Well, maybe not the newlyweds -- it's all about the hanky panky right now, eh? :p
Anyway, I'd better get back to proofing. I love you girls -- you're always in my thoughts and prayers!!
Sorry I've missed a few days on here. I've been working at my "real job", as Adam fondly calls it -- editing flyers and mailers. It's going well, but is tiring. I forgot what an 8-5, 40-hour work week feels like! I feel for you, girls! The work is interesting, but straining on my poor little eyes. So this short break is much needed!
I guess there's nothing new to report, otherwise. Things are going well out on the West Coast. The weather has been lovely -- cloudy and breezy and cool (I can't believe I'm actually happy about clouds) so we've been doing a lot of exploring. Saturday we hopped ferries from island to island, seeing the sights and just getting away from the city. It was very relaxing.
It seems like things are going a little better with my parents...they're talking again and seem to be making some headway with their relationship. But things are very much on a rollercoaster ride right now with them. Who knows how long until it dips down again. I don't want to sound cynical, but there is a lot of junk they have to work through.
I miss you girls! I agree with Steph about relationships greatly defining me. I've become very much a wife lately, which has been great, but I'm also praying for some girlfriend-type relationships to come along. Not that anyone could ever replace my Sapphires! But I'm sure you all can relate. Well, maybe not the newlyweds -- it's all about the hanky panky right now, eh? :p
Anyway, I'd better get back to proofing. I love you girls -- you're always in my thoughts and prayers!!
Non-stop Weekend leaves me pooped.
What insightful thoughts, Steph! I love it!
Anyway... I'm on my way out of work, but I thought I would stop and say hello to my girls. I'm actually leaving work early - I'm super tired and have tons to work on tonight - wedding details. I really don't have much to say...
I had a crazy weekend and it has left me exhausted. Friday night I was out way too late - just hangin with Kel, we haven't done that in awhile. Saturday was spent driving or in a church - I had a funeral close to 45 minutes drive, a catholic quince anos ceremony (all in Spanish and 2 hours long) 1.5 hours in the opposite direction, with a 6 hour reception that followed. And then I went to the BWI airport to pick up my parents (which is the opposite direction from the quince anos ceremony). There flight was in at 11pm - we didn't get home till 2am. Sunday was spent with my nieces (Emerald and Savanna) at an amusement park all day. Needless to say, life was non-stop this weekend with some fun and not-so-fun stuff. I was exhausted beyond belief last night and went to bed around 10pm. So yea... I'm still feeling the effects of the weekend, so I'm going home early to work on wedding stuff and of course some much needed down time.
I'll write again soon.
Anyway... I'm on my way out of work, but I thought I would stop and say hello to my girls. I'm actually leaving work early - I'm super tired and have tons to work on tonight - wedding details. I really don't have much to say...
I had a crazy weekend and it has left me exhausted. Friday night I was out way too late - just hangin with Kel, we haven't done that in awhile. Saturday was spent driving or in a church - I had a funeral close to 45 minutes drive, a catholic quince anos ceremony (all in Spanish and 2 hours long) 1.5 hours in the opposite direction, with a 6 hour reception that followed. And then I went to the BWI airport to pick up my parents (which is the opposite direction from the quince anos ceremony). There flight was in at 11pm - we didn't get home till 2am. Sunday was spent with my nieces (Emerald and Savanna) at an amusement park all day. Needless to say, life was non-stop this weekend with some fun and not-so-fun stuff. I was exhausted beyond belief last night and went to bed around 10pm. So yea... I'm still feeling the effects of the weekend, so I'm going home early to work on wedding stuff and of course some much needed down time.
I'll write again soon.
So this is my life....
Hey ladies...just thought I would write a quick something since I don't really have too many pressing things going on at work right now. This weekend was really good for me, but a little sobering all the same. I got to sleep in on Saturday, which was much needed (those of you who know my episode about the stairs know that), and then i went to a co-workers house for the rest of the day. I did some interior designing and some shopping for decor, and the she made dinner for her son and I and we had a great time. Its great to start feeling connected to people. Sunday was very low key. I bought a few books at Borders and read, napped, and read some more. I really should have done a few more things, but I just didn't feel like it. I love having the freedom to do things when I feel like it...:) Unfortunately, I have to do some of those things tonight as I will be gone from Thursday evening to Monday night in Tulsa. Juls - I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU! I'll call you this week to confirm our plans. I think that I am also goint to try to go to Family Church on Sunday, so we'll hopefully connect then, too.
I guess what was "sobering" about this weekend was realizing that this is what my life is now. Its re-building and re-structuring in every sense, and the luster of moving to a new place is starting to wear thin. I realize more than ever, that my life is made up of relationships and seeing those change, in turn, changes my life. Its so amazing to me to take a step back and see how God has orchestrated different events and placed people in our lives at different points along the way, and somehow everything just flows together in what I never knew was His perfect timing. Things that I used to wonder about have started to make sense, but at the same time, there are new things that seem to raise question marks. At least now I know that in time, they will make sense, too. I don't mean to get all philisophical, but I love to share these thoughts with you guys...
Havea wonderful day, girls, and keep on blogging! ;)
I guess what was "sobering" about this weekend was realizing that this is what my life is now. Its re-building and re-structuring in every sense, and the luster of moving to a new place is starting to wear thin. I realize more than ever, that my life is made up of relationships and seeing those change, in turn, changes my life. Its so amazing to me to take a step back and see how God has orchestrated different events and placed people in our lives at different points along the way, and somehow everything just flows together in what I never knew was His perfect timing. Things that I used to wonder about have started to make sense, but at the same time, there are new things that seem to raise question marks. At least now I know that in time, they will make sense, too. I don't mean to get all philisophical, but I love to share these thoughts with you guys...
Havea wonderful day, girls, and keep on blogging! ;)
Sunday, August 28, 2005
address
hey girls...real quick i'll just post my new address...
Neufeldts
14 Mark Dr.
Apt. J
Milford, MA 01757
hope you all had good weekends!
Neufeldts
14 Mark Dr.
Apt. J
Milford, MA 01757
hope you all had good weekends!
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Liz's address
Hey girls! I hope you are all enjoying your Saturday. This is my first Saturday that I didn't have to be anywhere in quite a while. It's been nice. I actually got to sleep in today! And by that, I mean I got to sleep until Seth woke me up at 7am by sticking his finger up my nose and grunting, which was his announcement that he was ready to play. I honestly do not remember what it feels like to sleep more than 4 hours at a time. Just one of the many joys of motherhood. Anyways, I didn't write to tell you all that. I am writing to see if anyone knows Liz's address now that she is married. Liz, if you wouldn't mind just sending me a quick email or write it in this blog, that would be greatly appreciated. =) Or if someone else has it and could send it to me, that would be great. Thanks girls! Love you all!
Friday, August 26, 2005
Class Reunion
Hey girls, just wanted to sign off for the weekend! This weekend is Chris' 10 year high school reunion and I get to be arm candy! Should be interesting to meet all his high school buddies. Chris was a big time football and wrestling guy in high school. I will have to let you all know how it goes!
Last night we had a 'Fall leadership kick off rally' for our church. We got into some of the nitty-gritties of leading a small group. please pray for us! Chris seems to be doing fine with all of it. Me, not so much! I struggle with change! Pray that I learn to trust God that it will all be alright!
It's been a really busy day and I'm looking forward to the weekend.
I'm very thankful for you all!
49 more thank you cards to go!
Last night we had a 'Fall leadership kick off rally' for our church. We got into some of the nitty-gritties of leading a small group. please pray for us! Chris seems to be doing fine with all of it. Me, not so much! I struggle with change! Pray that I learn to trust God that it will all be alright!
It's been a really busy day and I'm looking forward to the weekend.
I'm very thankful for you all!
49 more thank you cards to go!
Thursday, August 25, 2005
It's entirely too late!
Well its way past my bedtime, but i wanted write a short blog.
I also had a similar experience to Steph's today, life is way too fragile to let it pass by. So here's the story...
So i got a phone call today from a guy i went to highschool with, someone i haven't really heard from or seen since highschool. He was calling me to let me know that a guy in our graduating class passed away this week. It wasn't someone i was super close to but it was someone i hung out with on occasion. Unfortunately, it was a tragic, unexpected death - a result of poor decisions (same as the incident in Chicago). He was drinking with some friends, they started early in the afternoon so by the time he passed out he had way too much - enough to kill him. That's it - he passed out and never woke up. No accident, nothing. It's really very sad. The funeral is on Saturday and i think i'm going to go. I have a feeling alot of my classmates are going to try and make it, and even though i wasn't close to him, i know alot of people who were.
My advise - live life to its fullest. Smile often, laugh out loud. Don't put off untill tomorrow, what you can do today. Never let a moment pass you by - Our lives are full of short, seemingly unimportant moments, but you never know which one will be our last.
I love you girls... you mean the world to me - I definately don't say that enough.
God speed & good night (not sure why i ended with this, it just sounded good)
- Ang.
I also had a similar experience to Steph's today, life is way too fragile to let it pass by. So here's the story...
So i got a phone call today from a guy i went to highschool with, someone i haven't really heard from or seen since highschool. He was calling me to let me know that a guy in our graduating class passed away this week. It wasn't someone i was super close to but it was someone i hung out with on occasion. Unfortunately, it was a tragic, unexpected death - a result of poor decisions (same as the incident in Chicago). He was drinking with some friends, they started early in the afternoon so by the time he passed out he had way too much - enough to kill him. That's it - he passed out and never woke up. No accident, nothing. It's really very sad. The funeral is on Saturday and i think i'm going to go. I have a feeling alot of my classmates are going to try and make it, and even though i wasn't close to him, i know alot of people who were.
My advise - live life to its fullest. Smile often, laugh out loud. Don't put off untill tomorrow, what you can do today. Never let a moment pass you by - Our lives are full of short, seemingly unimportant moments, but you never know which one will be our last.
I love you girls... you mean the world to me - I definately don't say that enough.
God speed & good night (not sure why i ended with this, it just sounded good)
- Ang.
The Train
Angie already knows this story, but I wanted to share it will you guys because it really made me think. On Tuesday morning, I was waiting for the train and heard that it was late due to a pedestrian incident. That's what they called it "an incident." Well this incident happened to occur one stop ahead of mine so I could look down the track and see the commotion. At first, I thought, "How dumb can you be to walk accross the tracks and get hit by a train?!?" I mean people around here are very familiar with trains - they are constantly running back and forth to and from the city. After I got to work (nearly 3 hours later), I looked up the story on the news online and found out a little more about what happenesd. This lady, a 52-yr old speech therapist that worked for a local elementary school was an avid cyclist and even belonged to a biking club. She had 3 children all between the ages of 17 and 22, and was apparently constantly doing volunteer work and such. Earlier in the morning, a freight train had derailed and caused the bells to go off and arms (that bar the street so you can't cross) to remain down until a crane could finish correcting the mishap. Apparently, this was about the time this woman was biking in the area and as she came to the crossing, she assumed that the arms were down only for the freight train, and it would probably be safe to cross. Well, she assumed wrong and as she biked across, she was hit by a commuter train and killed. I think what got to me was that all she did was make a thoughtless decision. We all make stupid, thoughtless decisions like this everyday...not wearing a seatbelt, going through an almost red but still yellow traffic light, any number of little things. So, as I said to my mom, I would like to make a small request to the girls that I love so much...please don't make any stupid, rash decisions...particularly ones that could cause you bodily harm and death...I'll try and return the favor.
Sorry that this is a little depressing, but it was a shocking reminder as to how fragile our lives actually are, and the whole situation has been constantly reeling in my mind since it occurred.
Sorry that this is a little depressing, but it was a shocking reminder as to how fragile our lives actually are, and the whole situation has been constantly reeling in my mind since it occurred.
The Itsy Bitsy Spider...
Oh how funny we all are. I love the variety in everyone's comments! And actually, I was thinking about writing a book about us. I thought it would be more poignant to wait until we're all old ladies with exciting lives behind us...but like Julie said, by then I'll be too old to enjoy the money I made! So maybe I'll just have to make up some of the exciting parts for now. Hmm. Does anyone want to have a tragic love affair with an Italian? (And Aaron doesn't count!) Or maybe a dark secret that no one knows about? This is the stuff we need, I tell ya!
Steph, I do find it curiously entertaining about Walmart in Vogue. I was actually reading a fashion mag the other day and one of the women interviewed said she shops at Target for her clothes. So maybe we are trendier than we thought.
I'm sure Seth will recover just fine from his fall, Julie. Weren't you dropped on your head a few times when you were a baby? And look how you turned out! :p
Jen, I'm glad you're all safe from the bugs. That would be scary. I had a spider on the ceiling of my car the other day and I almost drove off the road, it freaked me out so much. I'm sure you can sympathize. We have to park the Jeep by this kind of wall that surrounds the park across from our apartment. And the wall is covered with vines and blackberry bushes. Needless to say, such succulent shrubs attract insects and other creepy crawlies. Well, I began to squeeze my way out of the car yesterday (there isn't much room between the car and wall) and found myself face to face with the biggest spider I've ever seen in my life. It was actually staring back at me. And licking its lips. Ok, maybe I exaggerate. But I screamed and jumped back in the car. I had to climb across the front seat and get out the other side just to avoid the stupid, hairy, ugly thing. It was quite traumatic. Of course, Adam didn't see the problem. He actually had the nerve to say I was being silly. Argh.
Jamie, I miss those snow-covered mountains! You'll have to take some pictures for me! We do have some mountains here, but they're puny next to the Rockies.
Keep the book material coming, girls!
Steph, I do find it curiously entertaining about Walmart in Vogue. I was actually reading a fashion mag the other day and one of the women interviewed said she shops at Target for her clothes. So maybe we are trendier than we thought.
I'm sure Seth will recover just fine from his fall, Julie. Weren't you dropped on your head a few times when you were a baby? And look how you turned out! :p
Jen, I'm glad you're all safe from the bugs. That would be scary. I had a spider on the ceiling of my car the other day and I almost drove off the road, it freaked me out so much. I'm sure you can sympathize. We have to park the Jeep by this kind of wall that surrounds the park across from our apartment. And the wall is covered with vines and blackberry bushes. Needless to say, such succulent shrubs attract insects and other creepy crawlies. Well, I began to squeeze my way out of the car yesterday (there isn't much room between the car and wall) and found myself face to face with the biggest spider I've ever seen in my life. It was actually staring back at me. And licking its lips. Ok, maybe I exaggerate. But I screamed and jumped back in the car. I had to climb across the front seat and get out the other side just to avoid the stupid, hairy, ugly thing. It was quite traumatic. Of course, Adam didn't see the problem. He actually had the nerve to say I was being silly. Argh.
Jamie, I miss those snow-covered mountains! You'll have to take some pictures for me! We do have some mountains here, but they're puny next to the Rockies.
Keep the book material coming, girls!
Shove your sweatshirts and Fall weather!
Hey girls! Not to be rude or bitter... but it's still 100 degrees here in the scorching wasteland that is Tulsa. I don't even want to here about how you got to wear sweatshirts, or how you can feel Fall in the air, yada yada yada... It won't be like that in Tulsa for 2 more months! I'm just kidding. =) I love hearing about the beautiful places that you all live. I'm just very jealous, that's all. Thank you all for showing so much interest in Seth and our mundane days. I had my first "I'm a horrible mother!" moment this week. Seth fell off the bed. Turns out he can crawl and I didn't realize it. It's not really a crawl as much as a very rapid caterpillar scoot. But he caterpillar scooted right off the side of the bed when I was turned around. He's fine. But I felt awful. Ah well... I'm sure much more dramatic things will happen. Anyways, I am also very happy for you Liz with your new job. That really sounds like a God thing. And I'm sorry you dated a loser Steph. =) I also sincerely appreciate the suggestion that Julia Roberts play me in our movie, Jamie. Kim, you're going to need to get going if you want to be young enough to enjoy the millions of dollars you'll reap from the Sapphire novel/movie. So, does anyone know when we'll be meeting in Chicago for the next reunion? I will probably be going to Angie's wedding without Josh, Jen. I'm not sure yet, but he will most likely have to be back in Tulsa for his January rotation by then. Like Kim said, she and I may be driving in together since I will be in Ohio then and she might be too. I'm also kind of thinking that I will be leaving Seth with my parents, as long as they're available and he's not breastfeeding anymore. So, there's a very good chance that we can share a room for Angie's wedding. Or maybe you, me and Kim since it doesn't look like any of our husbands will be there. Well, I'd better get going. I have about 30 minutes to get my house cleaned, do laundry, and plan dinner before naptime is over! Love you guys!
angie's wedding
Hey gals,
Anyone planning on going to Angie's wedding without their husband? Doesn't look like we can afford both Chris and I going to the wedding, so i'll be flying solo! If anyone's interested in sharing a hotel room and/or rental car, please let me know!
By the way, i know you are all concerned... the bugs i mentioned in my previous blog have started to leave the immediate area. We can all breathe a sigh of relief (but with our mouths closed so the bugs don't fly in!)
love you all!
Anyone planning on going to Angie's wedding without their husband? Doesn't look like we can afford both Chris and I going to the wedding, so i'll be flying solo! If anyone's interested in sharing a hotel room and/or rental car, please let me know!
By the way, i know you are all concerned... the bugs i mentioned in my previous blog have started to leave the immediate area. We can all breathe a sigh of relief (but with our mouths closed so the bugs don't fly in!)
love you all!
Wal-Mart in Vogue
Ok, so I know most of you may not care about this, but I thought it was HILARIOUS. I read 2 articles today (one in the Chicago Sun Times, and one in the Wall Street Journal) that both said that Wal-Mart is putting an 8 page spread in the Sept issue of Vogue Magazine. Is that really psycho or what? I don't look at Vogue because I think there is really anything in there that I can afford! I look there for inspiration. I don't know, maybe its just me. But I got a good laugh out of that this morning, and I thought I would share that itty bitty bit of my day with you! Don't worry, I'll write something of more substance later...
Oh and by the way, Jamie, I LOVE that you thought of Debra Messing to play me in the movie that kim's novel inspires...better get goin' on that kimmie! ;)
Oh and by the way, Jamie, I LOVE that you thought of Debra Messing to play me in the movie that kim's novel inspires...better get goin' on that kimmie! ;)
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Snow already?!
Yes my friends, I have seen the first snow fall!! Pikes was covered this weekend with the beautiful white stuff. But true to Colorado form, it is already back in the 80's today. Oh, I wish it would cool down.
I LOVE reading about all of your lives! I so wish I had time to do it at work. It would make me laugh more. :) Things have been a bit stressful with a classroom full of kids who can't seem to follow directions or stop talking. My voice is beginning to crack today from the yelling. But, we had a great day today, so here is hoping the drama of all that is over!
Jen, I totally understand what you mean about your furnace moving. We only have a queen bed, but we did get new bedroom furniture (which helped the sloping bed). But it has been hot this first month of marriage, and I'm the furnace and hate to be touched when I'm hot!! I have a loving husband who loves to cuddle...but I think we finally figured it out! Cuddle in the morning! :o)
Angie, you are rocking if you are getting out save the date cards. We never did make it that far! Way to go! We are both hoping to come out for those few days. I will definitely be there!
Liz, how is the new job? That is awesome that you found something else! We would have hired you 3 weeks after school started. How is the new school?
Julie, I'm with everyone else! Keep us updated on your life and Seth's napping habits! I wish I took naps to keep you all updated on, but alas only 26 ten-year olds. And right now, they are not cute.
Kim, I think I have an idea for you next book. You should take our stories and put them together in a novel. If we keep blogging like this, you will have all your material! I can just imagine a major motion picture being made of your book! It would be great! Drew Berrimore could play me, Julia Roberts could play Julie, Debra Messing-Steph, Jennifer Aniston - Kim, ...and right there, I'm out of movie star names that I know! Help!
Ok. I should go and at least say hello to my husband. We haven't seen each other yet and it's late here!
Love ya all lots! Thanks for this connection! I'm loving it!
I LOVE reading about all of your lives! I so wish I had time to do it at work. It would make me laugh more. :) Things have been a bit stressful with a classroom full of kids who can't seem to follow directions or stop talking. My voice is beginning to crack today from the yelling. But, we had a great day today, so here is hoping the drama of all that is over!
Jen, I totally understand what you mean about your furnace moving. We only have a queen bed, but we did get new bedroom furniture (which helped the sloping bed). But it has been hot this first month of marriage, and I'm the furnace and hate to be touched when I'm hot!! I have a loving husband who loves to cuddle...but I think we finally figured it out! Cuddle in the morning! :o)
Angie, you are rocking if you are getting out save the date cards. We never did make it that far! Way to go! We are both hoping to come out for those few days. I will definitely be there!
Liz, how is the new job? That is awesome that you found something else! We would have hired you 3 weeks after school started. How is the new school?
Julie, I'm with everyone else! Keep us updated on your life and Seth's napping habits! I wish I took naps to keep you all updated on, but alas only 26 ten-year olds. And right now, they are not cute.
Kim, I think I have an idea for you next book. You should take our stories and put them together in a novel. If we keep blogging like this, you will have all your material! I can just imagine a major motion picture being made of your book! It would be great! Drew Berrimore could play me, Julia Roberts could play Julie, Debra Messing-Steph, Jennifer Aniston - Kim, ...and right there, I'm out of movie star names that I know! Help!
Ok. I should go and at least say hello to my husband. We haven't seen each other yet and it's late here!
Love ya all lots! Thanks for this connection! I'm loving it!
Ooops
Just a quick note - I just re-read my post and I am SOOO sorry for the typos in there... geez...I did graduate from college, i promise...
Kimmie, those may have been the worst for you, so please know that I am aware of my mistakes and i apologize...;)
Kimmie, those may have been the worst for you, so please know that I am aware of my mistakes and i apologize...;)
Ahhh...Fall...
I know its a little early to talk about fall, but there is just that little twinge in the air that things are going to start cooling down and fall will set in a little sooner than later. I get to say that now that I am back up north for it! I love reading everyone's posts. It so interesting to see how all our lives are so different now. I mean, I know you all have the marriage thing in common now, but even so, you're all at different stages with that as well. Very cool to hear about it all. And Juls, I LOVE hearing about all the little intricacies that make your life yours...they may seem mundane to you, but its your life and we all want to know and be a part of as much of it as we can...I hope I can speak for all of us on that.
Just a quick update on me, things are truly going well here for me in Chicago. I love my job and all of my co-workers. They told me when I started that they were like one big family, mostly because they have all worked together for over 10 years, but its already starting to be true for me too. They are so welcoming and even through me a little surprise birthday "party" a few weeks ago. Anyway, I haven't gotten to know too many people around here yet, but I know that will all happen soon enough, as I think I will be starting back at Pottery Barn part time after Labor Day. I just can't live without my discount! Just kidding, I really am doing it just to make some extra money here and there. I'll only be working on weekends and only as much as I need to. However, after all the expenses from the summer, I do have a little catching up to do in the financial arena.
I am going to Tulsa for Labor Day! I am so excited and I cannot WAIT to see how Seth has grown. Juls - thanks for the offer to stay with you, however I already made arrangements with Lee and Kathy, but I really appreciate the offer. My best friend from childhood, Erika, and her family just moved to Tulsa as well so it will be good to see them too. For those of you who don't know, Erika also just informed me that she is pregnant again - yes, this is baby number 4. Oh my. They were planning on having another one eventually, but not this soon. God's timing is always best though, I guess, so she will be expecting another bundle of joy around March I think.
Now that I am the only one on the dating scene these days, let me just remind you all of how lucky you are not to be out there with some of the population we call "male". I met a guy a few days ago at Panera...he seemed relatively nice, funny, cute. He looked a little young, but he was 23 so I thought it would be ok. After a short conversation, I found out that he was still in college, attending Columbia University. Great school, must be intelligent. Well, we went out for drinks the next evening (last night). And let's just say he had me fooled by his first impression. Throughout the evening I realized that he was a ton of fun, but fun in that "remind me of my college days" kind of way, only his college days involve lots of parties and drinking, which he loves to talk about. Needless to say, I didn't have a great time. I don't regret going, he was a great conversationalist, sometimes, but ya know, I just don't think a relationship with him is in the cards. Darn. :)
And, now that I have written a novel, I will stop, I promise. I hope you all are enjoying keeping up on everyone's lives through this mode of communication as much as I am. I love to randomly check it throughout the day, just to see if anyone has said anything...
Have a great day, Ladies!
Just a quick update on me, things are truly going well here for me in Chicago. I love my job and all of my co-workers. They told me when I started that they were like one big family, mostly because they have all worked together for over 10 years, but its already starting to be true for me too. They are so welcoming and even through me a little surprise birthday "party" a few weeks ago. Anyway, I haven't gotten to know too many people around here yet, but I know that will all happen soon enough, as I think I will be starting back at Pottery Barn part time after Labor Day. I just can't live without my discount! Just kidding, I really am doing it just to make some extra money here and there. I'll only be working on weekends and only as much as I need to. However, after all the expenses from the summer, I do have a little catching up to do in the financial arena.
I am going to Tulsa for Labor Day! I am so excited and I cannot WAIT to see how Seth has grown. Juls - thanks for the offer to stay with you, however I already made arrangements with Lee and Kathy, but I really appreciate the offer. My best friend from childhood, Erika, and her family just moved to Tulsa as well so it will be good to see them too. For those of you who don't know, Erika also just informed me that she is pregnant again - yes, this is baby number 4. Oh my. They were planning on having another one eventually, but not this soon. God's timing is always best though, I guess, so she will be expecting another bundle of joy around March I think.
Now that I am the only one on the dating scene these days, let me just remind you all of how lucky you are not to be out there with some of the population we call "male". I met a guy a few days ago at Panera...he seemed relatively nice, funny, cute. He looked a little young, but he was 23 so I thought it would be ok. After a short conversation, I found out that he was still in college, attending Columbia University. Great school, must be intelligent. Well, we went out for drinks the next evening (last night). And let's just say he had me fooled by his first impression. Throughout the evening I realized that he was a ton of fun, but fun in that "remind me of my college days" kind of way, only his college days involve lots of parties and drinking, which he loves to talk about. Needless to say, I didn't have a great time. I don't regret going, he was a great conversationalist, sometimes, but ya know, I just don't think a relationship with him is in the cards. Darn. :)
And, now that I have written a novel, I will stop, I promise. I hope you all are enjoying keeping up on everyone's lives through this mode of communication as much as I am. I love to randomly check it throughout the day, just to see if anyone has said anything...
Have a great day, Ladies!
Cozy Sweaters... ahh!
I can’t wait for cozy sweater season!! Steph, we should go shopping together for new cozy sweaters for the fall!
Apologize in advance for the sad English, Kimmie. I was a music major, I read dots on lines, not real words :) I hope that brought back some memories for some of you who may have remembered this moment of college with me.
I too and really loving this weather we’ve had over the last few days in Illinois. Last night, we went out to rent a movie, and I wore a sweatshirt. Oh, it was just great!
I would also like to say that Julie, we NEED to hear about your Seth adventures! Someday, we will all be there as well and will need all the help we can get from our friends’ experiences! Plus, since Seth is such a huge part of your life now, we want to know about that.
There are these tiny whitish-green bugs flying all around in the air today. They somehow sneak inside your car also so end up flying around your head, up your nose, etc. it’s very annoying and I just felt the need to share my annoyance. BTW, sitting here writing a blog while my assistant’s doing work… feels really nice! I’ve been working non-stop on three projects this week. I finally got them all to the point where I could pass them on to other people. Very nice.
Oh, for those of you who don’t know, Jaren Froyck (who transferred in at the same time I did and lived next door my sophomore year) is now a resident of the Quad Cities! She moved in about a week and a half ago. I had found her an apartment, so just like Steph, she moved to an entirely new place with no job and with very few people she knows, just to start a new life! She is doing very well, and it’s such a blessing to see how God is remaining faithful. She had accepted one part time job, had several interviews set up for a second part time job, and then got a call from another job that was full time who was very interested in her. As of right now, I don’t know what she’s decided, but things are looking very good for her. Please keep her in your prayers.
Kimmie, I also was unaware of your new job, that’s great! And even more great that you get to work from home!
Finished 25 thank-you cards last night… tackling another 25 tonight!
King size bed is working nicely but have noticed that it’s colder when my furnace (aka Chris) is not as near to me in the bed.
Back to work now…
Apologize in advance for the sad English, Kimmie. I was a music major, I read dots on lines, not real words :) I hope that brought back some memories for some of you who may have remembered this moment of college with me.
I too and really loving this weather we’ve had over the last few days in Illinois. Last night, we went out to rent a movie, and I wore a sweatshirt. Oh, it was just great!
I would also like to say that Julie, we NEED to hear about your Seth adventures! Someday, we will all be there as well and will need all the help we can get from our friends’ experiences! Plus, since Seth is such a huge part of your life now, we want to know about that.
There are these tiny whitish-green bugs flying all around in the air today. They somehow sneak inside your car also so end up flying around your head, up your nose, etc. it’s very annoying and I just felt the need to share my annoyance. BTW, sitting here writing a blog while my assistant’s doing work… feels really nice! I’ve been working non-stop on three projects this week. I finally got them all to the point where I could pass them on to other people. Very nice.
Oh, for those of you who don’t know, Jaren Froyck (who transferred in at the same time I did and lived next door my sophomore year) is now a resident of the Quad Cities! She moved in about a week and a half ago. I had found her an apartment, so just like Steph, she moved to an entirely new place with no job and with very few people she knows, just to start a new life! She is doing very well, and it’s such a blessing to see how God is remaining faithful. She had accepted one part time job, had several interviews set up for a second part time job, and then got a call from another job that was full time who was very interested in her. As of right now, I don’t know what she’s decided, but things are looking very good for her. Please keep her in your prayers.
Kimmie, I also was unaware of your new job, that’s great! And even more great that you get to work from home!
Finished 25 thank-you cards last night… tackling another 25 tonight!
King size bed is working nicely but have noticed that it’s colder when my furnace (aka Chris) is not as near to me in the bed.
Back to work now…
Time zones
Ok, this is weird. Since I'm in an earlier time zone than you girls, the blog published my post before yours, even though I wrote it after you. So if it looks like I'm commenting on something someone hadn't even said yet, that's why.
I've set the blog to be on Central Time, since that's where the majority of the Sapphires are. But it's still going to mix up our posts every once in a while...so be sure to scroll down or check the list on the left to see if there are new ones that may not be at the top of the page.
I've set the blog to be on Central Time, since that's where the majority of the Sapphires are. But it's still going to mix up our posts every once in a while...so be sure to scroll down or check the list on the left to see if there are new ones that may not be at the top of the page.
Happy blogging
Ok, I'm totally smiling like a goofball right now. I'm so happy everyone is getting into this! And, I'm so happy things are going well for everyone. Steph, you know me so well. Is it totally nerdy that I actually thought about going back and editing the typos in everyone's posts? Wait, don't answer, I already know what you will say.
Angie, sounds like your wedding plans are coming together. I'm sure it will be just fabulous. I'm excited about a winter wedding -- there's something magical about the thought of it. I'm going to try my darndest to be there. We're still working on our family holiday plans. If I'm already in Ohio during that time, Julie and I will probably just hop on over. I've got my eye on plane tickets as well. Adam probably won't be able to make it as he will be conserving vacation days and will have to get back to Seattle.
I'm actually working part time right now for Trails.com (the best website ever! a.k.a., Adam's company) doing data entry and editing. It's going well and I get to work from home, which is the best part. I also work for a creative jobs agency here that finds me random editing and writing jobs around the city. I love it! I get to edit junk mail next week, which is actually a lot more interesting than it sounds. The pay is excellent, and I'm making all kinds of connections, which will hopefully pan out into a full time job soon. We're looking around to buy a house by next summer, so having me on the full time status would greatly increase our options. Plus, I like to contribute, especially when it's doing jobs that make me feel like I'm putting my rather expensive education to use.
Steph, I'm so sorry your date didn't go so well. I'm sure that had to be frustrating. You know that Dr. Pepper commercial on TV that has the girl listening to the guy droning on and on about himself...and it goes into this funny song that the whole restaurant joins in on? Well, it makes me laugh and I immediately thought about it when you were describing your date.
I, too, am insanely excited about the cooler evenings and falling leaves. I love the crisp smell in the air (which mingles with the always pervasive scent of fish around here), and the thought of breaking out my comfy sweaters makes me all giddy. I'm so over summer.
Well, once again I have stopped being productive. Better get back to work (you, too -- all you who are reading this right now!) :)
Angie, sounds like your wedding plans are coming together. I'm sure it will be just fabulous. I'm excited about a winter wedding -- there's something magical about the thought of it. I'm going to try my darndest to be there. We're still working on our family holiday plans. If I'm already in Ohio during that time, Julie and I will probably just hop on over. I've got my eye on plane tickets as well. Adam probably won't be able to make it as he will be conserving vacation days and will have to get back to Seattle.
I'm actually working part time right now for Trails.com (the best website ever! a.k.a., Adam's company) doing data entry and editing. It's going well and I get to work from home, which is the best part. I also work for a creative jobs agency here that finds me random editing and writing jobs around the city. I love it! I get to edit junk mail next week, which is actually a lot more interesting than it sounds. The pay is excellent, and I'm making all kinds of connections, which will hopefully pan out into a full time job soon. We're looking around to buy a house by next summer, so having me on the full time status would greatly increase our options. Plus, I like to contribute, especially when it's doing jobs that make me feel like I'm putting my rather expensive education to use.
Steph, I'm so sorry your date didn't go so well. I'm sure that had to be frustrating. You know that Dr. Pepper commercial on TV that has the girl listening to the guy droning on and on about himself...and it goes into this funny song that the whole restaurant joins in on? Well, it makes me laugh and I immediately thought about it when you were describing your date.
I, too, am insanely excited about the cooler evenings and falling leaves. I love the crisp smell in the air (which mingles with the always pervasive scent of fish around here), and the thought of breaking out my comfy sweaters makes me all giddy. I'm so over summer.
Well, once again I have stopped being productive. Better get back to work (you, too -- all you who are reading this right now!) :)
New from PA
Hello friends,
I'm bored at work... well actually i have tons to do, but don't feel like doing it. So i decided to write a quick blip to my girls that i miss so very much.
I had a fab time with Steph this past weekend in Chicago - giving me a glimpse of the fun in store for our Sapphire weekend there. There is so much to do and everything is so much fun. By the way Steph, I love the area you live in, it is so cute, and your apartment - in spite of not being all that you invision it to be yet - is very cute and comfortable. And i like Henry much more than the cat who couldn't get enough of me :)
Anyway... wedding plans are coming along slowly. It takes time just to research everything and with me being away so much this summer, it takes even longer. We are still working on the save-the-dates, which you WILL get by the end of this month. I've blocked rooms at two different hotels, which gave me pretty decent rates - Hampton for $85 and the Holiday Inn for $71. Both are very nice. All that info will be in the stds and soon posted on the website i am building through the weddingchannel.com. I will email you all with that info as soon as i can. Also, in regards to the wedding, first and foremost i hope you can make it and secondly if you are coming, you should try and make it in for new years on saturday night. I am planning a Sapphires and "the boys" outing for that night and would love for all of you and your husbands or significant others to make it as well. It's going to be so much fun!!
This weekend, in spite of being at home, will not be as relaxing as i would like it to be. I have things to do almost every day. Some fun and some not so fun. Aaron and i are taking Emerald and Savanna (the 2 oldest of my 3 nieces) to a local amusement park, which should be fun but exhausting. The other stuff is just random but will keep me busy all day Saturday. At least i have friday night!
I love hearing all about your lives this way... much better than the mass emails. Liz - congrats on the new job, i'm sure its a blessing to be close to home. Kimmie - i had no idea you had started working again. where do you work and what do you do? Julie - i too would love to hear all about Seth. It's the only way we can stay involved. Also, have you thought about going to Selah's wedding? Aaron and I are thinking about going so i though i would see if you were considering it. For the rest of my girls - i am so glad to hear what is going on in your worlds... I only wish we could talk in person more often.
I love you girls and i'll write again soon
I'm bored at work... well actually i have tons to do, but don't feel like doing it. So i decided to write a quick blip to my girls that i miss so very much.
I had a fab time with Steph this past weekend in Chicago - giving me a glimpse of the fun in store for our Sapphire weekend there. There is so much to do and everything is so much fun. By the way Steph, I love the area you live in, it is so cute, and your apartment - in spite of not being all that you invision it to be yet - is very cute and comfortable. And i like Henry much more than the cat who couldn't get enough of me :)
Anyway... wedding plans are coming along slowly. It takes time just to research everything and with me being away so much this summer, it takes even longer. We are still working on the save-the-dates, which you WILL get by the end of this month. I've blocked rooms at two different hotels, which gave me pretty decent rates - Hampton for $85 and the Holiday Inn for $71. Both are very nice. All that info will be in the stds and soon posted on the website i am building through the weddingchannel.com. I will email you all with that info as soon as i can. Also, in regards to the wedding, first and foremost i hope you can make it and secondly if you are coming, you should try and make it in for new years on saturday night. I am planning a Sapphires and "the boys" outing for that night and would love for all of you and your husbands or significant others to make it as well. It's going to be so much fun!!
This weekend, in spite of being at home, will not be as relaxing as i would like it to be. I have things to do almost every day. Some fun and some not so fun. Aaron and i are taking Emerald and Savanna (the 2 oldest of my 3 nieces) to a local amusement park, which should be fun but exhausting. The other stuff is just random but will keep me busy all day Saturday. At least i have friday night!
I love hearing all about your lives this way... much better than the mass emails. Liz - congrats on the new job, i'm sure its a blessing to be close to home. Kimmie - i had no idea you had started working again. where do you work and what do you do? Julie - i too would love to hear all about Seth. It's the only way we can stay involved. Also, have you thought about going to Selah's wedding? Aaron and I are thinking about going so i though i would see if you were considering it. For the rest of my girls - i am so glad to hear what is going on in your worlds... I only wish we could talk in person more often.
I love you girls and i'll write again soon
This 'n' that
Hey, girls...I need a little distraction from my data entry right now -- It's getting a little mundane. :p
Wow, Liz...that's great about your new job. I'll definitely be praying things go well there for you. Sounds like you have been a busy girl! New babies are always such fun...especially for the non-parents.
And Julie, I want to hear about your days with Seth. You can maybe leave out the diaper changing bits, but fill us in on the rest. He is getting so big! I can't believe it. I just want to pick him up and squeeze him!
Jamie, I'm glad things are going so well with school and married life. This time can be exciting and challenging...but in a good way. I will always treasure mine and Adam's first summer together.
The weather is so gorgeous here it's a shame I have to be inside today...what was that about it raining all the time in Seattle? Yeah, so far...not so much. But apparently we'll hit the rainy season some time around November, so I'm supposed to be prepared to get depressed by the grayness. Encouraging, I know.
Well, I'd better get back to being productive...or at least, pretending to be productive.
Love you all!
Wow, Liz...that's great about your new job. I'll definitely be praying things go well there for you. Sounds like you have been a busy girl! New babies are always such fun...especially for the non-parents.
And Julie, I want to hear about your days with Seth. You can maybe leave out the diaper changing bits, but fill us in on the rest. He is getting so big! I can't believe it. I just want to pick him up and squeeze him!
Jamie, I'm glad things are going so well with school and married life. This time can be exciting and challenging...but in a good way. I will always treasure mine and Adam's first summer together.
The weather is so gorgeous here it's a shame I have to be inside today...what was that about it raining all the time in Seattle? Yeah, so far...not so much. But apparently we'll hit the rainy season some time around November, so I'm supposed to be prepared to get depressed by the grayness. Encouraging, I know.
Well, I'd better get back to being productive...or at least, pretending to be productive.
Love you all!
quick hello
Hey girls. I've been a bit out of the loop lately, but I did have time to look at all your blogs. Jen, I can relate to the adjustment of sleeping in the same bed as someone. We had a little trouble as well, although not due to the size of the bed. It was because I grind my teeth at night, and my last mouth guard bit the dust before the wedding. So our nights would consist of me waking up Nathan with my grinding, and him waking me up to stop. So, now I have a new guard and sleep is wonderful. Anyway, life here is insanely busy right now, but here's a quick update before I leave for the day. I found out a week before school was due to start (it starts the 29th) that my classroom was changed, and the verbal agreement I had was broken. They're giving me behavior again. So I went looking, and amazing with only a week until the start of school, found 2 district very interested in me. I accepted a position yesterday at the middle school in my town. It's only 5 minutes away, and the pay is much better. So it's working out well I think. I give my resignation this morning to my previous school, so I'm hoping that goes ok. In addition to that craziness, my bridesmaid, Shai, who was pregnant at the wedding, for those of you who were there, went into an early labor this past weekend. She had previously requested that I be with her during labor, since she doesn't have the most with-it family. So Nathan and I were there with her and her husband for most of it. It was a long hard go of it, since her water broke before she had dilated at all, and she hadn't dropped yet either. After 20 agonizing hours, she brought a beautiful baby boy into the world. I'm probably a bit biased, but I of course think he's the most beautiful baby ever! I'll post a picture when I get one. But's he's doing well. H'e s a little 6lb peanut. Anyway, because he was earlier than anyone expected, and Shai had only had her shower that day, I've been everywhere taking care of things to make sure things are ready for them to come home. It's been exhausting, but amazing. So I'm an auntie now. Ok, I need to jet, but I'm glad to hear everyone is doing well. Wish me luck with my new job.
What up Hotties!
Hey girls! This is a pretty cool way to keep in touch. I'm so happy to hear that you are all doing well and have enjoyed your summer. A king size bed is nice Jen, especially when you have a baby that decides he doesn't need to sleep in a crib, but that cuddled up between his parents in a soft bed is much cozier. Seth normally starts out in his crib but he got his first cold this week and is a bit fussier than usual. He's a bit needier of hugs and cuddles right now. Needless to say, Josh and I are very tired. I am incredibly impressed that you girls are working so hard to get your thank you notes out so fast. It took me an embarrasingly long time when I got married. So, you girls are going to have to fill me in a little... From what I gathered, Jen is doing the scrapbook this year? And did Stephanie say we're having the next reunion in Chicago? What's the plan? Kim, I'm so jealous that you have such incredibly beautiful stuff to look at, like the ocean and whales. And I'm jealous that you have the energy to go on seaside hikes to lovely lighthouses. Tulsa does not offer a whole lot in the way of scenery. But you all know that. =) Anyways, I will be reading all of your blogs often and I will write occasionally. Although, I have to just admit right now that I probably won't write as often as you do because I have nothing glamorous or interesting to say most of the time as I'm quite sure you all are not nearly as interested in Seth's napping schedule or want to know how many diapers I change each day. I'm afraid that this stage in my life called motherhood is not the most stimulating. But I will be sure to keep you posted on anything even remotely noteworthy. Speaking of that... I do have a prayer request for you girls if you happen to think of me when you're praying. My grandmother (Shirley) has had a spread of her uteran cancer. She'd had cancer a few years ago and has been in remission since then. But her uteran cancer has come back and has spread through several organs. There is not a medical chance of recovery. So, I would just ask that you would join with me to pray and believe God for a miracle recovery. I would greatly appreciate the power of all of your prayers, especially from good ORU girls... =) Expect a Miracle! hehehe. Anyways, that's it for me right now. I love you all!
Juls
Juls
Monday, August 22, 2005
Update from the White house
Hello all! I'm thinking I am really going to like checking in on this. Now if I can just find time to do it regularly. Things here at the White house are coming along quite nicely! ;) Nick and I are absolutely loving married life. We are finally settling into a routine. We both have to work early in the morning so it makes for tired nights. But, just being able to hang out with him is VERY nice!!
Our house is coming together slowly. Jen, I know how it is to put everything away. Liz, I'm very impressed that you've gotten thank you's out so quickly. We are still waiting for ours to be printed. So, know they are coming, and will be fridge worthy when you get them. :)
School started for me 2 weeks ago. We are just beginning week 3. It has been a crazy start to school with budget cuts and teachers having to move to different schools. But my job seems to be safe for awhile. My class seems extremely young, but I'm sure they always do right at the beginning. I feel like I'm learning patience all over again. One breakthough has been that I am still teaching 5th grade at the same school for the 2nd year in a row!! PTL!! That part has been nice. And the idea that I come home to my loving husband each night is refreshing!
Ok, I can tell that I am really going to enjoy this!! Kim I will be praying for you and your parents. Sounds like a rough time! Jen, you are going to be awesome small group leaders!! How exciting that your group is growing. I can't wait to hear more about what is going on with everyone. Once I get pictures from the wedding, I will let you all know!
Our house is coming together slowly. Jen, I know how it is to put everything away. Liz, I'm very impressed that you've gotten thank you's out so quickly. We are still waiting for ours to be printed. So, know they are coming, and will be fridge worthy when you get them. :)
School started for me 2 weeks ago. We are just beginning week 3. It has been a crazy start to school with budget cuts and teachers having to move to different schools. But my job seems to be safe for awhile. My class seems extremely young, but I'm sure they always do right at the beginning. I feel like I'm learning patience all over again. One breakthough has been that I am still teaching 5th grade at the same school for the 2nd year in a row!! PTL!! That part has been nice. And the idea that I come home to my loving husband each night is refreshing!
Ok, I can tell that I am really going to enjoy this!! Kim I will be praying for you and your parents. Sounds like a rough time! Jen, you are going to be awesome small group leaders!! How exciting that your group is growing. I can't wait to hear more about what is going on with everyone. Once I get pictures from the wedding, I will let you all know!
Jen, I am so jealous! We've been wanting a king-size bed since we got married! Unfortunately, we don't exactly have room for one in our barbie-doll-sized apartment right now...maybe one of these days! Sounds like you are really starting to be "the Akers". We're starting to get involved in the big church here -- it's a little large for me, but Adam really likes it. One of the pastors graduated from ORU, so it has a very chapel-esque feel to it. Adam attended there when he lived here before, and still knows some of the guys that go there...so we're hoping to make some friends and get connected.
I just booked a whale-watching excursion for Labor Day! I'm so excited! We haven't gotten to do that yet since we moved here...we have to go up north a bit to the San Juan Islands, and the boat leaves from there. My mom will be visiting during that time, and we wanted to do some special things for her while she's here to help keep her mind off things back in Ohio. For those of you that don't know, my parents are separated right now. I don't really want to go into the sticky details on this blog, but it's been a rough couple of months. So we'd all appreciate your prayers!
Love you girls!
I just booked a whale-watching excursion for Labor Day! I'm so excited! We haven't gotten to do that yet since we moved here...we have to go up north a bit to the San Juan Islands, and the boat leaves from there. My mom will be visiting during that time, and we wanted to do some special things for her while she's here to help keep her mind off things back in Ohio. For those of you that don't know, my parents are separated right now. I don't really want to go into the sticky details on this blog, but it's been a rough couple of months. So we'd all appreciate your prayers!
Love you girls!
My first Blog!
Hello dear friends! Just an update on the Akers!
We are now the proud owners of a king size bed. Apparently Chris has been unable to sleep well since we got married and I hopped into bed with him. It’s been torturing him for 2 months now and he recently let me in on this. Last night was our first night on it and can I just say OH YEAH! That’s real nice. I rolled over and didn’t run into my husband.
Our young adults ministry at church has exploded this summer as the church is also growing at a rapid rate. The young adult large group has received new leadership and they have asked Chris and I to lead a small group in our home. We’ve accepted and will now be hosting a get-together once a week. It’s a huge step out of my comfort zone!!! So now everything that’s not been handled since the wedding (putting all gifts in a place, hanging pictures on the wall, moving furniture, etc) is now being crammed into 2 weeks. (1st meeting is September 1st) The house is finally starting to look like a home. We have a darling little guest bedroom that also is used for my scrapbooking J. Chris has created a study for himself in the downstairs bedroom. The dressing room and upstairs bedroom will be getting curtains soon.
Yesterday we had lunch with our new neighbors. We brought pasta salad. Then we found out they are chefs! They met at one of the Quad Cities’ best restaurants. So, besides our measly pasta salad, we ate like royalty!! They are our new best friends!
We are starting to put a choir together at church. The goal is to have a choir by Christmas. Should be fun!
I’m brainstorming with all the pictures from this summer’s activities to begin work on the Sapphire Scrapbook. I have an abundance of pics from Liz’s wedding, some from Jamie’s, and none from Sara’s. If you have some, send them on over!
We still haven’t fully completed Thank-You cards so if you gave a gift and haven’t received yours yet, please don’t fret! We’re still trudging through! Liz, you make me feel bad! Are all yours done???
We are now the proud owners of a king size bed. Apparently Chris has been unable to sleep well since we got married and I hopped into bed with him. It’s been torturing him for 2 months now and he recently let me in on this. Last night was our first night on it and can I just say OH YEAH! That’s real nice. I rolled over and didn’t run into my husband.
Our young adults ministry at church has exploded this summer as the church is also growing at a rapid rate. The young adult large group has received new leadership and they have asked Chris and I to lead a small group in our home. We’ve accepted and will now be hosting a get-together once a week. It’s a huge step out of my comfort zone!!! So now everything that’s not been handled since the wedding (putting all gifts in a place, hanging pictures on the wall, moving furniture, etc) is now being crammed into 2 weeks. (1st meeting is September 1st) The house is finally starting to look like a home. We have a darling little guest bedroom that also is used for my scrapbooking J. Chris has created a study for himself in the downstairs bedroom. The dressing room and upstairs bedroom will be getting curtains soon.
Yesterday we had lunch with our new neighbors. We brought pasta salad. Then we found out they are chefs! They met at one of the Quad Cities’ best restaurants. So, besides our measly pasta salad, we ate like royalty!! They are our new best friends!
We are starting to put a choir together at church. The goal is to have a choir by Christmas. Should be fun!
I’m brainstorming with all the pictures from this summer’s activities to begin work on the Sapphire Scrapbook. I have an abundance of pics from Liz’s wedding, some from Jamie’s, and none from Sara’s. If you have some, send them on over!
We still haven’t fully completed Thank-You cards so if you gave a gift and haven’t received yours yet, please don’t fret! We’re still trudging through! Liz, you make me feel bad! Are all yours done???
Figuring this out...
So I thought I was posting a blog when I really posted a comment. I was beginning to think that I was becoming more internet savvy, but I guess that just proved me wrong...
As I said in my comment...I think this is a great idea. I hope that you all think so too.
So, how is everyone? Liz and Jamie, you both have started school now, right? I guess that really does signal the end of summer. How depressing. Oh well...plenty of traveling still to do for the year, I guess. I don't think I have too much to say at the moment, but I know that as my day goes on, I randomly think of things that I need to get out, so I'm sure I'll be back to share those deep, thought provoking, complex ideas with you. Or not...we'll see.
As I said in my comment...I think this is a great idea. I hope that you all think so too.
So, how is everyone? Liz and Jamie, you both have started school now, right? I guess that really does signal the end of summer. How depressing. Oh well...plenty of traveling still to do for the year, I guess. I don't think I have too much to say at the moment, but I know that as my day goes on, I randomly think of things that I need to get out, so I'm sure I'll be back to share those deep, thought provoking, complex ideas with you. Or not...we'll see.
Sunday, August 21, 2005
Hola chicas!
Hi, girls! Hope all is well with everyone.
This is the only picture I have of all of us...if anyone else has any pictures (of anything) they want to post, feel free! Which reminds me, I need to get some copies of the pictures from our Tulsa Sapphire reunion...if anyone has any they can email me, please do so (particularly ones of all of us together).
This other photo is from a hike Adam and I did this weekend at a park near our apartment. It followed the
coast most of the way and ended up at this quaint little lighthouse on a point...lovely.So hopefully this is something everyone can get into...if not, no biggie. Like I said, no pressure! But I'm enough of a journaling/writing nerd that I get excited about the thought of all of us writing to each other reguarly. Plus, I need a good source for the book I'm going to write about us! Just kidding...but you never know.
Love you all!
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