As I spend this last day of 2010 in my beloved home state, I thought I would take a quick minute (that makes no sense, "a quick minute" . . . all minutes are the same length!) and post my top 10 favorite moments/events/blessings of 2010. This may be harder to identify than I think . . .
1. Marrying my best friend at 4 pm on July 10, 2010
2. Completing my first year of teaching at 2:45 pm on June 4, 2010
3. Spending a week in Mexico at a resort on the beach with my husband
4. Driving across the country through 13 different states as we made our way to our new home
5. Moving in to our first apartment on July 28, 2010
6. Finding out that Brent loves his new job (and is really great at it!)
7. Being hired as a 3rd grade teacher in Maryland
8. Our first trip home at Thanksgiving
9. Meeting good friends at our new church and small group in Maryland
10. Finding out that, overall, my 4th graders from last year passed their state test
Hmmm, so there are definitely more great moments to add, that really should be in my top 10, but they just won't fit. So, here are a few more.
Going to the bedlam game with Nick and singing the alma mater with him
My grandparents and Steven coming to visit
My dear friend, Brittany, coming to visit
Eating dinner with Brent every night
My mbf, Hannah, getting married (I love that we were within 2 months of each other!)
Meeting friends at my new school
Discussing NFL football every Monday and Friday with one of my students
There are actually many, many more wonderful moments and times from 2010, but I'll stop there, since I'm headed out to lunch with my favorite guys, Brent and my dad. God has truly blessed Brent and I this year and I am so thankful for everything that he continues to do to provide and care for us and our families. As we close out the year, I hope that you remember all that God has done for you and your family as well.
See ya, 2010!
[hugsfromOK]
Friday, December 31, 2010
Friday, December 24, 2010
Reminder.
Sometimes we all, including myself need a reminder of what this season is all about. Remember that the birth of a tiny child from a virgin brought the hope and Savior for the world. I am so thankful to the Lord for sending his son to save me, and the world. I hope you take the time to read this on this Christmas Eve, and remember the reason we celebrate this beautiful season.
Luke 2
The Birth of Jesus
In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.)And everyone went to their own town to register.
So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
Merry Christmas.
Luke 2
The Birth of Jesus
In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.)And everyone went to their own town to register.
So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
Merry Christmas.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
The Season.
So, if you know me at all, you'll know that I love this time of year.
I love everything about it. I love the music, the lights, the decorated trees, my decorated apartment, lights, movies, scents, cookies, candy canes, scarves and mittens, and shopping for gifts.I love kids' Christmas programs and giant gingerbread houses in the store. I love the joy that [many] people have around this time of year. I love love love singing Christmas carols during worship at church. I love that the whole world takes this time of year to celebrate Christmas and the birth of our Savior, even though many don't even recognize it anymore.
I also love the old-fashioned feeling of Christmas (think . . . Silver Dollar City-esque). Though society pushes us to become more modern and move along at a faster pace, Christmas is a time when the old-fashioned fun is still in vogue. Bing Crosby's on the radio. Danny Kaye's on television. And we all look forward it every year. Why? Because it feels good. right. simple. And we crave that. At least, I know I do. I crave it like I crave that picturesque display of Jesus in his manger-bed. Have we idealized it? Yes. But the point is still there. Jesus, our Almighty Lord, came in the form of a tiny, helpless baby, born in the most meager and poor of circumstances. His mother gave birth to him as a virgin. Angels announced his arrival! From there, He grew up to be the Son of God. What an amazing God we serve and I love the reminder that this season brings to me.
I love love love my nativity. Thanks, Mom for the new pieces this year. :) My hero of a husband repaired my angel last night after I knocked her off the mantle. Here are some other pictures from our apartment as well!
So, I'm dumb and can't figure out how to turn this picture. It has something to do with the dimensions and it won't let me turn it on the blog. I guess you'll just have to turn your head sideways! Sorry!
And, this is 0ur Christmas-y living room, complete with the football game on TV! :)
Ah, sigh. I love Christmas. I have also been baking Christmas cookies and writing Christmas cards all afternoon. Good thing Brent made dinner tonight . . . taco bake! Yum! Come on over if you want some! :)
Until next time . . . enjoy the season. :)
[hugs]
I love everything about it. I love the music, the lights, the decorated trees, my decorated apartment, lights, movies, scents, cookies, candy canes, scarves and mittens, and shopping for gifts.I love kids' Christmas programs and giant gingerbread houses in the store. I love the joy that [many] people have around this time of year. I love love love singing Christmas carols during worship at church. I love that the whole world takes this time of year to celebrate Christmas and the birth of our Savior, even though many don't even recognize it anymore.
I also love the old-fashioned feeling of Christmas (think . . . Silver Dollar City-esque). Though society pushes us to become more modern and move along at a faster pace, Christmas is a time when the old-fashioned fun is still in vogue. Bing Crosby's on the radio. Danny Kaye's on television. And we all look forward it every year. Why? Because it feels good. right. simple. And we crave that. At least, I know I do. I crave it like I crave that picturesque display of Jesus in his manger-bed. Have we idealized it? Yes. But the point is still there. Jesus, our Almighty Lord, came in the form of a tiny, helpless baby, born in the most meager and poor of circumstances. His mother gave birth to him as a virgin. Angels announced his arrival! From there, He grew up to be the Son of God. What an amazing God we serve and I love the reminder that this season brings to me.
I love love love my nativity. Thanks, Mom for the new pieces this year. :) My hero of a husband repaired my angel last night after I knocked her off the mantle. Here are some other pictures from our apartment as well!
So, I'm dumb and can't figure out how to turn this picture. It has something to do with the dimensions and it won't let me turn it on the blog. I guess you'll just have to turn your head sideways! Sorry!
Ah, sigh. I love Christmas. I have also been baking Christmas cookies and writing Christmas cards all afternoon. Good thing Brent made dinner tonight . . . taco bake! Yum! Come on over if you want some! :)
Until next time . . . enjoy the season. :)
[hugs]
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Home, finally!
Since we have now been back in MD for almost a week, I suppose it's time to share the glorious trip home we had over the Thanksgiving holiday.
I've had a few people at school ask me how my trip home was last week. Every time, my response is "absolutely wonderful."
Because it was.
We flew home late on Tuesday, got delayed in Baltimore and Dallas, and arrived in Tulsa just a bit before midnight. However, that did not stop us from waking up both families for a hug and a ride home from the airport! Those hugs were long-awaited and so great.
We stayed at Brent's parents' house while we were there, since all the beds at my parents' were taken. I must admit that it was strange (not bad, just strange) to be at home in Owasso but not be staying at my house. But it was nice, nonetheless!
Wednesday was spent hanging out with family and friends, and I made a trip to the gym in Skiatook. Boy did I miss those faces! Have you ever been tackled by a bunch of little girls in leotards? I can now say that I have, haha. :) And I was equally excited to see them! I sure do miss that place.
And Thursday! Thanksgiving! What a fantastic day. For the last 4 years, Brent's family has included mine in their Thanksgiving festivities, and this year was no different. I know that we are so very lucky to be able to have both of our families together for holidays. Truly a blessing. Brent's mom went above and beyond (as usual) to prepare for Thanksgiving. Here was the dessert table, just to give you a small taste of what our meal was like:
I've had a few people at school ask me how my trip home was last week. Every time, my response is "absolutely wonderful."
Because it was.
We flew home late on Tuesday, got delayed in Baltimore and Dallas, and arrived in Tulsa just a bit before midnight. However, that did not stop us from waking up both families for a hug and a ride home from the airport! Those hugs were long-awaited and so great.
We stayed at Brent's parents' house while we were there, since all the beds at my parents' were taken. I must admit that it was strange (not bad, just strange) to be at home in Owasso but not be staying at my house. But it was nice, nonetheless!
Wednesday was spent hanging out with family and friends, and I made a trip to the gym in Skiatook. Boy did I miss those faces! Have you ever been tackled by a bunch of little girls in leotards? I can now say that I have, haha. :) And I was equally excited to see them! I sure do miss that place.
And Thursday! Thanksgiving! What a fantastic day. For the last 4 years, Brent's family has included mine in their Thanksgiving festivities, and this year was no different. I know that we are so very lucky to be able to have both of our families together for holidays. Truly a blessing. Brent's mom went above and beyond (as usual) to prepare for Thanksgiving. Here was the dessert table, just to give you a small taste of what our meal was like:
Here are some pictures from after the meal:
I love this picture. And I love these boys. Best ever. Aaaand funniest boys ever. It's true. :)
For this next photo, please ignore the giant green oaf in the front row with her eyes closed. I hate this photo of me but it's the only one I have of the whole family. Just look at everyone else and how great they look! Isn't this a good-looking family?
And here is my husband and I on our first Thanksgiving together. I love him a lot. And being married to him is so much fun and it is so worth all of that long distance that we went through. He rocks and I am so lucky to be his wife!
So, that was our day of feasting and hanging out with family. Friday brought [no] early morning shopping. I did go shopping for a new stove for Mom with her and my grandma, but that wasn't until 11 am. Her stove, when set at 375 degrees, currently wavers somewhere between 375 and 100 degrees while cooking. That would be a problem! After shopping, I headed to the annual reunion with Brent and his friends, which was fun as always! It's so neat that the group of boys has stayed so close all these years. What a great group!
Saturday was our last day at home (such a short visit!) but it was no less exciting. We made a short visit to our dear friends Jen and Kye's (miss them sooo much!) and then I had the joyous opportunity to drive to Stillwater with Nick to watch Bedlam! One of my favorite moments of our whole trip was singing the Alma Mater in Boone Pickens Stadium with my brother. It was pretty special, not gonna lie. I'm super proud of him.
Even though the Cowboys lost, this was absolutely, without a doubt, the most fun and exciting football game that I have ever been to! It was such a good game with so many exciting plays! I have never been in such a ginormous crowd that is screaming and jumping up and down and high-fiving with the catching of a ball in an endzone or making an interception. WOW. It made me proud to be a Cowboy alum, even if we didn't end up with the higher score at the end. There was no better way to spend my last night in Oklahoma than at Bedlam. Loved it.
And that ended our first trip home.
It was wonderful.
It was joyous.
It was much-needed and very satisfying.
And we only have to wait 2 and 1/2 weeks to go back! Which means lots of shopping between now and then, which Brent and I started today. We also put up our tree and decorated, though it's not quite finished. Pictures of the apartment are SOON to come!
Until then, I hope that you are enjoying every minute of this beautiful time of year, celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior. Remember the reason for the season!
[hugs]
P.S. A post from Brent is hopefully coming soon! It is sure to be witty and entertaining! Get ready! (I just read that line to Brent . . . his response was "Oh great!" haha)
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Untitled.
So, I've got a feeling that this is going to be a pretty random post. This is the conversation I just had with Brent:
"Are you blogging?"
"Yep."
"What are you blogging about?"
"I don't know. It's current title is 'Untitled.'"
"Sounds like it should be very interesting."
Indeed.
Where shall I begin?
School has been hectic, but still going well. Finished my first round of report cards last week and parent conferences this week. Overall, it was not a bad experience. I count that as successful. We also had another field trip this week, to the National Museum of the American Indian. It's one of the Smithsonian museums. Wait, did I really just say that? I am taking my students on field trips to our nation's capital in Washington, D.C.!? That's just wild to me. These kids are pretty lucky. We have 3 days of school this week, though I will only be attending 2 and then flying HOME! More about that in a minute. Considering our last day off was Labor Day, I am seriously in need of a break! I can't wait to not see those angelic little faces for a few days, no matter how much I adore them.
Brent and I, as I have mentioned before, are part of a lifegroup with our church. We've got a fantastic couple leading our group and have been going through a great curriculum by Andy Stanley about faith. It has definitely challenged me to take a serious look at how much I trust God with all of the parts of my life. I think the biggest change I've felt is in my perspective. God desirse for us to fully depend and trust in Him, not just when life is going well, and not just when times are really tough. In my experience (based on the tough year that I had last year), I draw closest to God when times are tough. This study has changed my perspective about "tough times" to help me see that God does allow those things because that is when our faith and trust in Him grows the most! When I was struggling last year, I was much more devoted to daily bible reading and prayer than I am now. (Yikes, didn't realize I'd be sharing so much, but here goes) I will admit that I am less consistent about reading my bible and less passionate with my prayers. I hate to admit that, especially after going through this study, because I SEE my choices are not right, but it's so hard to make time to do those, and it shouldn't be. Since going through this study, I have really felt this lack of . . . devotion, and I don't like it. One thing I've changed, is that I read my bible for the first few minutes of my plan time at school every morning. It's not a lot, but it's a start, and it gives me a solid start to my day. I challenge you as well to take a look at your dependence on God. When do you rely on Him the most? Do you cry out to him only when you are struggling? Do you thank Him only when life is easy? Make the commitment to devote yourself to him no matter the circumstances. Trust that He is truly in control of circumstances and will do what's best for you and His will. I love this familiar verse because it reminds me that what I see (or don't see) is not what's important, because I've got an all-knowing God on whom I can always rely, and so can you.
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1
Speaking of things I do not see, I have not seen my family (aside from Steven, Grandma, and Grandpa) for 4 months! That is a super long time. But, that is about to come to an end! We are flying home late on Tuesday night where my dad will be picking us up at the airport at 11:15 pm! Party at the airport . . . all are welcome! ;) Just kidding. But seriously, I am so excited to see everyone and I know Brent is, too. I'll be checking out for a few days while I veg in Oklahoma! A few things I'm looking forward to:
Speaking of delicious (did you like that transition?) Brent and I made PW's Chicken Parmiagiana for dinner on Friday night. It was glorious. Good thing our lifegroup leaders introduced us to this recipe! I knew we were in the right lifegroup when Pioneer Woman came up on the first night. :) In case you missed it this week, she threw down with Bobby Flay. And she won. I'm just sayin'.
Also, I want Bobby Flay's Throwdown Cookbook for Christmas. And then I want to throwdown with Bobby Flay. Are you up for a Frito Chili Pie throwdown, Bobby? Or a Chocolate Chip Pancakes throwdown? (Ooops, better leave that one to Dad!) Or a Strawberry-Pretzel Salad throwdown? It's on! Get ready!
And, I'll stop there. Wow.
Oklahoma, I'll see you soon!
[hugs]
P.S. I introduced a new and dear friend to Hobby Lobby this week. Don't worry, she's in love with it.
P.P.S. I'm watching Elf right now. Bring on the Christmas season!
P.P.P.S. I'm trying to convince Brent to do a guest post on here. What do you think?
"Are you blogging?"
"Yep."
"What are you blogging about?"
"I don't know. It's current title is 'Untitled.'"
"Sounds like it should be very interesting."
Indeed.
Where shall I begin?
School has been hectic, but still going well. Finished my first round of report cards last week and parent conferences this week. Overall, it was not a bad experience. I count that as successful. We also had another field trip this week, to the National Museum of the American Indian. It's one of the Smithsonian museums. Wait, did I really just say that? I am taking my students on field trips to our nation's capital in Washington, D.C.!? That's just wild to me. These kids are pretty lucky. We have 3 days of school this week, though I will only be attending 2 and then flying HOME! More about that in a minute. Considering our last day off was Labor Day, I am seriously in need of a break! I can't wait to not see those angelic little faces for a few days, no matter how much I adore them.
Brent and I, as I have mentioned before, are part of a lifegroup with our church. We've got a fantastic couple leading our group and have been going through a great curriculum by Andy Stanley about faith. It has definitely challenged me to take a serious look at how much I trust God with all of the parts of my life. I think the biggest change I've felt is in my perspective. God desirse for us to fully depend and trust in Him, not just when life is going well, and not just when times are really tough. In my experience (based on the tough year that I had last year), I draw closest to God when times are tough. This study has changed my perspective about "tough times" to help me see that God does allow those things because that is when our faith and trust in Him grows the most! When I was struggling last year, I was much more devoted to daily bible reading and prayer than I am now. (Yikes, didn't realize I'd be sharing so much, but here goes) I will admit that I am less consistent about reading my bible and less passionate with my prayers. I hate to admit that, especially after going through this study, because I SEE my choices are not right, but it's so hard to make time to do those, and it shouldn't be. Since going through this study, I have really felt this lack of . . . devotion, and I don't like it. One thing I've changed, is that I read my bible for the first few minutes of my plan time at school every morning. It's not a lot, but it's a start, and it gives me a solid start to my day. I challenge you as well to take a look at your dependence on God. When do you rely on Him the most? Do you cry out to him only when you are struggling? Do you thank Him only when life is easy? Make the commitment to devote yourself to him no matter the circumstances. Trust that He is truly in control of circumstances and will do what's best for you and His will. I love this familiar verse because it reminds me that what I see (or don't see) is not what's important, because I've got an all-knowing God on whom I can always rely, and so can you.
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1
Speaking of things I do not see, I have not seen my family (aside from Steven, Grandma, and Grandpa) for 4 months! That is a super long time. But, that is about to come to an end! We are flying home late on Tuesday night where my dad will be picking us up at the airport at 11:15 pm! Party at the airport . . . all are welcome! ;) Just kidding. But seriously, I am so excited to see everyone and I know Brent is, too. I'll be checking out for a few days while I veg in Oklahoma! A few things I'm looking forward to:
- Seeing family (duh!)
- Hanging out in the kitchen with Mom and Grandma
- Staying at the McLaughlin's house (new experience!)
- Making a trip to Skiatook to see my other family
- Watching OSU beat OU in Stillwater with Nick!
- Hanging out with my husband on our first trip home
- Beginning the Christmas season
Speaking of delicious (did you like that transition?) Brent and I made PW's Chicken Parmiagiana for dinner on Friday night. It was glorious. Good thing our lifegroup leaders introduced us to this recipe! I knew we were in the right lifegroup when Pioneer Woman came up on the first night. :) In case you missed it this week, she threw down with Bobby Flay. And she won. I'm just sayin'.
Also, I want Bobby Flay's Throwdown Cookbook for Christmas. And then I want to throwdown with Bobby Flay. Are you up for a Frito Chili Pie throwdown, Bobby? Or a Chocolate Chip Pancakes throwdown? (Ooops, better leave that one to Dad!) Or a Strawberry-Pretzel Salad throwdown? It's on! Get ready!
And, I'll stop there. Wow.
Oklahoma, I'll see you soon!
[hugs]
P.S. I introduced a new and dear friend to Hobby Lobby this week. Don't worry, she's in love with it.
P.P.S. I'm watching Elf right now. Bring on the Christmas season!
P.P.P.S. I'm trying to convince Brent to do a guest post on here. What do you think?
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Familiar territory.
I had an absolutely wonderful experience on Saturday.
Columbia just had their Grand Opening of their newest store in town . . .
HOBBY LOBBY! :)
Now, 'round these parts, Hobby Lobby is new and unfamiliar territory. (Sort of like most things are to me around here!) However, for the first time since we've moved, I was in familiar territory!
Please forgive me if you have no knowledge/experience of the wonderfulness that is Hobby Lobby. You may want to stop reading now.
So, I walk into the store, and was welcomed home. I looked to my left and saw the Thanksgiving decorations and what I knew were infinite (or at least, close to infinite) aisles of Christmas decorations that are available all year long. I looked in front of me and saw picture frames and what I knew would be paintings and old-fashioned metal signs and candles galore. To my left were aisles of fake flowers, fabric, and the ever-popular wedding aisles.
Ahh, sigh. Happiness. I knew that I could find what I needed here, without asking an employee where these crazy MD'ers hide the Velveeta cheese or peanut butter. I meandered down many of the aisles, reminiscing about projects with my girls at OSU, trips with Mom to buy scrapbook paper for my school calendar that we worked so hard on, and of course, all of the wedding projects that consumed so much time and energy (well-spent!) of the last year. Basically, I took a walk down memory lane.
I didn't buy a thing. But I enjoyed every minute of my time in "this new Hobby Lobby shop" as I heard one woman refer to it in a conversation on her cell phone.
Thanks, Hobby Lobby, for the trip home. That will help me make it to Thanksgiving, which is officially 2 WEEKS away! I can't wait to be back on OK soil. :)
And, thank you, dear friend, for reading my ridiculously lame, but oh-so-true post about what Hobby Lobby means to me. You're the best.
So, so blessed.
[hugsfromMD]
Columbia just had their Grand Opening of their newest store in town . . .
HOBBY LOBBY! :)
Now, 'round these parts, Hobby Lobby is new and unfamiliar territory. (Sort of like most things are to me around here!) However, for the first time since we've moved, I was in familiar territory!
Please forgive me if you have no knowledge/experience of the wonderfulness that is Hobby Lobby. You may want to stop reading now.
So, I walk into the store, and was welcomed home. I looked to my left and saw the Thanksgiving decorations and what I knew were infinite (or at least, close to infinite) aisles of Christmas decorations that are available all year long. I looked in front of me and saw picture frames and what I knew would be paintings and old-fashioned metal signs and candles galore. To my left were aisles of fake flowers, fabric, and the ever-popular wedding aisles.
Ahh, sigh. Happiness. I knew that I could find what I needed here, without asking an employee where these crazy MD'ers hide the Velveeta cheese or peanut butter. I meandered down many of the aisles, reminiscing about projects with my girls at OSU, trips with Mom to buy scrapbook paper for my school calendar that we worked so hard on, and of course, all of the wedding projects that consumed so much time and energy (well-spent!) of the last year. Basically, I took a walk down memory lane.
I didn't buy a thing. But I enjoyed every minute of my time in "this new Hobby Lobby shop" as I heard one woman refer to it in a conversation on her cell phone.
Thanks, Hobby Lobby, for the trip home. That will help me make it to Thanksgiving, which is officially 2 WEEKS away! I can't wait to be back on OK soil. :)
And, thank you, dear friend, for reading my ridiculously lame, but oh-so-true post about what Hobby Lobby means to me. You're the best.
So, so blessed.
[hugsfromMD]
Monday, October 18, 2010
Recently.
So, I must admit that it has been pretty exciting around the McLaughlin estate lately. There are a few pictures here, just because I wanted to share! Come along with me. :)
Remember when I told you we picked apples a few weeks ago? Well, like I said, it was tons of fun! We've still got lots of apples left, so if anyone is interested, you are welcome to come and enjoy one with me! My favorite snack lately is a sliced apple with peanut butter. Yum! I've also made an apple pie (which Grandpa finished off when he came! More on that in a minute). Here's the bounty when we first arrived home from the farm.
The next exciting event was the arrival of part of my family! Steven, Grandma, and Grandpa flew in for the weekend. We had lots of fun at Medieval Times, the Renaissance Fair, eating delicious seafood, and just hanging out! It was much needed time for me. :)
And now . . .
[cue NFL music . . . buh, buh-buh-buh, buh, bah, bah, buh, bum, bum, bum, bum, bum, ba-da-da-dum!]
Brent and I took a ride on the Metro down to FedEx Field in DC where we watched the Colts-Redskins game, and it was a BLAST! Brent got me tickets for my birthday in June and, believe me, I have been looking forward to this day ever since! It was the late game last night and we had so much fun that I can't even describe it to you! Let me just say, though, that it's a bit of a strange feeling to walk onto a crowded Metro car and be one of the few dressed in blue, not burgundy and gold. :) No worries, though, I wore my colors proudly!
It was definitely amazing to see my team for real! Peyton Manning, Joseph Addai, Reggie Wayne, and the list goes on . . . yep, I saw them in person! Funny thing, though, the others sitting around us weren't quite as appreciative about the fact that they were in the presence of such incredible football players! What? Ha. I guess it's been awhile since I was at an away game, because it was so strange (yet, so very, very satisfying) to be standing and cheering like a crazy person when the majority of the stadium was silent. If you haven't had the pleasure of experiencing this sensation, you should consider doing it. It's loads of fun. :) The first of these photos is a panoramic that Brent took, very impressive. The second is just us preparing to watch the dominance of the Colts! ;)
For now, I am headed to bed and trying to mentally prepare myself for our first field trip of the year tomorrow! We are headed to the National Building Museum (who even knows what that is? I don't. haha.) and it is sure to be an eventful day. I'm sure I'll have updates on that next time!
Thanking God for his many, many, many blessings to us! We love you all.
[hugsfromMD]
Remember when I told you we picked apples a few weeks ago? Well, like I said, it was tons of fun! We've still got lots of apples left, so if anyone is interested, you are welcome to come and enjoy one with me! My favorite snack lately is a sliced apple with peanut butter. Yum! I've also made an apple pie (which Grandpa finished off when he came! More on that in a minute). Here's the bounty when we first arrived home from the farm.
The next exciting event was the arrival of part of my family! Steven, Grandma, and Grandpa flew in for the weekend. We had lots of fun at Medieval Times, the Renaissance Fair, eating delicious seafood, and just hanging out! It was much needed time for me. :)
And now . . .
[cue NFL music . . . buh, buh-buh-buh, buh, bah, bah, buh, bum, bum, bum, bum, bum, ba-da-da-dum!]
Brent and I took a ride on the Metro down to FedEx Field in DC where we watched the Colts-Redskins game, and it was a BLAST! Brent got me tickets for my birthday in June and, believe me, I have been looking forward to this day ever since! It was the late game last night and we had so much fun that I can't even describe it to you! Let me just say, though, that it's a bit of a strange feeling to walk onto a crowded Metro car and be one of the few dressed in blue, not burgundy and gold. :) No worries, though, I wore my colors proudly!
It was definitely amazing to see my team for real! Peyton Manning, Joseph Addai, Reggie Wayne, and the list goes on . . . yep, I saw them in person! Funny thing, though, the others sitting around us weren't quite as appreciative about the fact that they were in the presence of such incredible football players! What? Ha. I guess it's been awhile since I was at an away game, because it was so strange (yet, so very, very satisfying) to be standing and cheering like a crazy person when the majority of the stadium was silent. If you haven't had the pleasure of experiencing this sensation, you should consider doing it. It's loads of fun. :) The first of these photos is a panoramic that Brent took, very impressive. The second is just us preparing to watch the dominance of the Colts! ;)
For now, I am headed to bed and trying to mentally prepare myself for our first field trip of the year tomorrow! We are headed to the National Building Museum (who even knows what that is? I don't. haha.) and it is sure to be an eventful day. I'm sure I'll have updates on that next time!
Thanking God for his many, many, many blessings to us! We love you all.
[hugsfromMD]
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