tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48995989110486970042024-03-13T18:54:43.598-06:00Our Home Joyful HomeA place for memories to be captured, words to be shared and hearts to be encouraged as our family lives in the freedom of what Christ has done for us. Truly, it is all to be counted as joy.Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.comBlogger97125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-7760026361621416662019-09-22T07:52:00.000-06:002019-09-22T07:52:41.904-06:00First LoveI am up early on a day when I could be sleeping in. These days are few and far between now as our life has drastically changed over the last few years. But I must write...<br />
<br />
I went to bed last night with a heavy heart. "No one" sat by my girl on the bus. This isn't something I wanted to hear after we picked her up from a very LONG tournament day of volleyball games. I asked the usual questions and said the same things as this wasn't the first time she has slumped into the car and muttered these first words. Somehow, my nudging about how that must have been nice to have a seat to herself for sleeping fell flat. What it really boiled down to is that she didn't have a friend to talk to. Being a former band nerd, I know those long bus rides, and having a seat to yourself is king. Having a friend to talk to while you sit on the edge of your seat is even better. We did all the usual back and forth about being a good friend even when no one seems to be your friend. I even asked her if she wanted to quit, but there's a fierce determination in that girl who shook her head and said a resounding, "NO." So, we did the only logical thing on a late Saturday night when you're too tired to even eat ice cream. We prayed and kissed goodnight.<br />
<br />
There's a lot of back story here that does matter but should not. I am an over-thinker. I know we are new here. It's a very small town, and we've only lived here 3 years. We homeschool. We are from a totally different culture. We are not the same church affiliation as most. The list could go on, but my thinking cannot. I get stuck after all this thinking. The one thing that rings over and over and over: IT SHOULD NOT BE THIS WAY.<br />
<br />
It is a slap you in the face type moment when you see your child hurting. Maybe it hurts worse because we know what being well loved feels like. We know what it feels like so well that we almost had no idea what brokenness felt like anymore. We were so far gone into the good country that we forgot what it looks like to those who haven't experienced the richness of God's love that we have.<br />
<br />
So, it hits me hard this morning from God's word: We love because He first loved us. He knew the ultimate loneliness, and He died and rose again so that we would not have to experience that ultimate loneliness forever. Now, He beckons us to that same call to die to ourselves in an over and over again type way. He modeled the ultimate way to love, and His love involved DYING.<br />
<br />
This is the thing that needs to be what I over-think on: how are we dying today so that others will know the greatest Love? Maybe yesterday it meant serving a bunch of middle schoolers breakfast burritos, closing our business for a day, driving 6 hours, and laying a sad little girl to sleep. Because here's the deal- they won their very first games of the season yesterday, but that is not what she cared about. The caring is what she cared about.<br />
<br />
His love demands that we show His love to others and live to care for one another. He may give us hard moments where showing that kind of love is the among the most difficult thing we do. Surely that's why dying is called dying. Less of me. More of Him.<br />
<br />
We have made plenty of mistakes, and we will have many more mess ups ahead. We will get parenting wrong sometimes. We will react wrongly. We will show unkindness at times. We will want to be selfish. However, I know that it's not supposed to be this way. I know a greater love because I have been loved by it. We have been loved by it. We have lived long years in the rich love of Christ centered community, and I want others to know that same good place so desperately. That love is what compels us to stay in the hard places when it would seem easier to leave. That love is what I tell my girls about when they are sad that life is hard here. That love is what I preach to myself when I am sad and long for my far away friends who love Jesus so much and loved us so well. This kind of love is worth dying for because it is what makes life worth living.<br />
<br />
Oh, Jesus! May we live our lives within the reality of how sad it will be for those who don't know you and the love you love us with. Please turn our hurt in times of loneliness into what eternal loneliness will feel like for those who don't know you. Help us die well so that others can truly live.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-10380455735455350002015-12-06T11:39:00.000-07:002015-12-07T13:48:08.788-07:00Dear GriefI knew my father was dying. Essentially, aren't we all? It's this chaotic mixture of living while dying. A seen march toward an unknown end date. He had only been sick for a short while, but what a sickness. Cancer and all the treatment options- doctors and hospital visits. And medicines. And bills. All the rearranging of life.<br />
<br />
I guess you could say that I was looking at this thing a little one sided. I didn't even really consider how his death might affect me. While he chose to try and beat his cancer monster, all I could think of is how much better death seemed. Although he always said he'd never want to live that way, once diagnosed, it's what he chose. You think you know what you would do until you're in that situation. He chose to fight, and all I could really think these past months is, "Wouldn't Heaven just be so much better?!"<br />
<br />
Yes, Heaven is so much better. Jesus is so much better. To be present with Him is our greatest joy - the thing that propels our very essence of life on earth. When you get the Gospel, it changes you. You live differently. It's not a living out of obligation but a life fueled by love. A longing for a life well lived. A journey worth going. A race worth winning.<br />
<br />
So, why did he even chose to fight this cancer with such slim odds? That's a question I'll never know the answer to, but seeing him so ill, so overcome with disease... It really did make me look at grief one-sided. His side. He would be so much better off. In a better place. With no sickness. No cancer.<br />
<br />
It's been a few weeks since Dad's final home going. We had his memorial service a week ago.<br />
<br />
But here's what I forgot. Here's where I underestimated all this grief. This is the side I failed to see. My side.<br />
<br />
Dear Grief,<br />
<br />
I sincerely underestimated you.<br />
<br />
I forgot about you when I grabbed my phone to text a picture of my daughters on the fishing pier to their PawPaw. Dad loved the gulf.<br />
<br />
I didn't know you would show up while I walked the aisles of Buc-ee's and happened to see the orange slices. I didn't realize grief could transport me to my childhood and see Dad emptying a bag of his favorite candy into the candy jar. He loved orange slices.<br />
<br />
When we traveled back home after your service, you left me feeling like life sucked out as we drove through west Texas and into New Mexico. Dad loved the west. I'm so glad he got to visit us here.<br />
<br />
And Grief, the tears are easy to understand, but I failed to realize that you come through as anger and untimely, random acts of who-knows-what, too. I guess you're what made me clean my house the second I walked in the door after being away from home for nearly 3 weeks. You are so weird.<br />
<br />
I didn't know you would show up at my daughter's piano recital as she played "Jessica's Theme" from <i>Man from Snowy River. </i>She had learned that song for Paw-Paw because it was one of his favorite movies. And she played it at Christmas...on a piano in front of a Christmas tree. (Dad loved Christmas so much that he actually left their house decorated year round for the past 3 years!) Grief, you threw a sucker punch there. My tears weren't understood by the crowd around me.<br />
<br />
And that's another thing. Grief, you didn't warn me about crowds! For Pete's sake, I am a people person! Who knew all I would want to do is avoid crowds. And, plus it's Christmas! I am supposed to be attending parties and shopping for presents. But I can't fight you right now, Grief. So, I'll settle for warm blankets, a cup of coffee, a few holiday obligations, and maybe I'll somehow get some shopping done between your waves.<br />
<br />
There are places I expected you to show up, Grief. Like when I find Dad's handwriting on the box of Christmas keepsakes he gave to me. There's the Christmas village that he took me to Lowe's to buy. We added new pieces each year. I knew you'd show up as we unboxed it yesterday. I expected you then.<br />
<br />
I also knew you'd wash over me afresh when I read Dad's hand written notes to me in the book in which his poem was published. I fought you, Grief, but you were at least expected there.<br />
<br />
I really have to give you credit for the anguish I feel about living so far away from my mom. I had no idea how hard it would be to drive away from her house last Monday. Although I know she'll be fine, she's dealing with you right now, too.<br />
<br />
I understand that you're going to be with me for awhile. But Grief, I also know that you're going to gracefully bow out at some point soon. I get that you have a job you're helping do right now. That you are bringing about the mourning. This is good. It's part of it. And, truly, I thank God for you.<br />
<br />
But.<br />
<br />
JOY is coming. MORNING is coming. and PEACE... already here.<br />
<br />
So, Dearest Grief, do your job because Jesus is doing his. He will allow you this and even use you for my good and His glory. But: Know this, you are a means to an end.<br />
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 20px;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="text 1Cor-15-55" id="en-ESV-28757" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1.1; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; left: -4.4em; line-height: 22px; position: absolute; text-align: center; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">55 </span></span></span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>"O death, where is your sting?</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>O death, where is your victory?</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>But thanks be to God,who gives us the victory</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>through our Lord Jesus Christ."</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">1 Corinthians 15:55-57 (ESV)</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelNDBNj8x3XEm6oB2eowD7jr1dRsTjJkVwHs04fq24IFZCz1fPGg_O9wRRiGYL4m-vjaCfdARpIx2-ot9_x0i_qrDJhmA4x-6VnOhbKmx4JEUPbW55GFphfLAwBHkVsjFf1wuzToRdRo/s640/blogger-image--512779770.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelNDBNj8x3XEm6oB2eowD7jr1dRsTjJkVwHs04fq24IFZCz1fPGg_O9wRRiGYL4m-vjaCfdARpIx2-ot9_x0i_qrDJhmA4x-6VnOhbKmx4JEUPbW55GFphfLAwBHkVsjFf1wuzToRdRo/s640/blogger-image--512779770.jpg" /></a></div>
Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-88178708120856180782015-11-19T19:14:00.001-07:002015-11-19T19:16:16.773-07:00Fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8SEznHeN6JuOSBiJQmn5gdNGqnHHExADhBSozP2QkLFyFUCA1hyh-H8nI6an4g2MZquxYubcFYhwKcQxHJDWN1MK6WRU4n0t7EsgnInVfG0in1O6QeVu2Gy5EBTQyFv2dDDxGUbRkJYI/s640/blogger-image--838693502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8SEznHeN6JuOSBiJQmn5gdNGqnHHExADhBSozP2QkLFyFUCA1hyh-H8nI6an4g2MZquxYubcFYhwKcQxHJDWN1MK6WRU4n0t7EsgnInVfG0in1O6QeVu2Gy5EBTQyFv2dDDxGUbRkJYI/s640/blogger-image--838693502.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We watched her paddle out & wait for a wave worth riding. I know we were all thinking that these waves were likely not really worth riding, not worth such effort...too small to provide much excitement. Before we knew it, she was up, gliding over the glassy gulf waters. Before she knew it, the ride was over. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Brandon made the obvious remark about all the effort for such a small reward. Then, it came. Clara, our 9 year old said, "Yeah, but I bet it sure was fun!" </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Hearing her words sent me rewinding my thoughts to several weeks ago when I had a conversation with my dad. I was telling him how well Libby & Clara were doing with their music lessons but how I was feeling a bit overwhelmed in my own study of learning to play the mandolin. He told me that I just need to have more fun with it and that one day I was going to look back at life and wish we would've just had more fun. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">That was the last time I got to talk to my dad with any detail. It's been a week since he went Home, and today,<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> I find myself standing on a pier...hoping I can learn to have more fun... More fun. All the effort, all the fun. Life to its fullest...or rather- funnest. ;-)</span></div>Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-8704302433482387802015-07-27T23:13:00.000-06:002015-07-27T23:16:59.292-06:00#66celebration Party of THANKS!!YOU. ALL. Just wow! Never in my wildest dreams did I think that something so amazing could come together is just a few days time. As of July 18th, we asked and you have KEPT ON delivering! So many of you have shared our posts, given money, cheered us on, and championed with us through prayer. Now, we hold the banner of thankfulness high - so high - and say THANK YOU!! And a big WOO HOO! You guys are all just so awesome!<br />
<br />
Our week long #66celebration birthday campaign has continued well past our 7 days. It's been like the 7th day that just won't stop! As of today, 7/27, $4,699 has been given to #66celebration. Along with other donations given since 6/9/15, my dad and mom have been blessed with nearly $6,500 in donations. Though there are many medical bills, several of them have been paid off or paid down significantly. Most importantly, my dad has been able to purchase immediately needed medicines.<br />
<br />
Your hugs, gifts, prayers, and overall concern for my dad continue to mean so much. Every day is truly a blessing. I know that my dad's spirits have been lifted in these recent days. God is so good to take our offerings and turn them into hope in a person's life. That is only something that He can do. You have helped pave the way for hope to come. Thank you!Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-13756338004354487202015-07-18T00:00:00.000-06:002015-07-24T09:32:53.643-06:00#66celebration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW5R8hSZD3UyHISdvv6gQT_aQCzNyshFF3HCj3KH7gFgUqufd9K8E9M-KYOEK60QfJHkjRcZvyoJNyd_1IaZc26mL4io7AHoOJdjhGJpCLO0U7TG1dFl3kKlHat7Rvk5mfS08a32TQdwg/s1600/Dad+%2526+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW5R8hSZD3UyHISdvv6gQT_aQCzNyshFF3HCj3KH7gFgUqufd9K8E9M-KYOEK60QfJHkjRcZvyoJNyd_1IaZc26mL4io7AHoOJdjhGJpCLO0U7TG1dFl3kKlHat7Rvk5mfS08a32TQdwg/s320/Dad+%2526+me.jpg" width="320"></a></div>
<br>It's a 24/7 celebration!!<br><div>Update Day 1- 7/18/15 $876 given today! Thank you!</div><div>Update Day 2- 7/19/15 $1,190 given today! Simply amazing!!! Thank you!</div><div>Update Day 3- 7/20/15 $342 given today! Thank you!!</div><div>Update Day 4- 7/21/15 $507 given today! Thank you!!</div><div>Update Day 5- 7/22/15 $398 given today! Thank you!!</div><div>Update Day 6- 7/23/15 $400 given today!! Thank you!!</div><div>Update Day 7- 7/24/15 Finishing strong! Final updates will post in a few days to allow offline donations to roll in!! Thank you!!<br><div><br></div><div>
Today is my dad's 66th birthday! We wish that we could be there to celebrate with him. Somehow, this birthday feels extra important. It's the kind of reality where you accept that your dad has lung cancer stage 3b. We tuck "special days" away thinking that this might be his last, and at the same time, we cling to the truth that <i><b>every </b></i>day is special and hope we have many more with him!<br>
<br>
So, on this special day, I'm hoping for a miracle of sorts... and it involves you! Today, I'm asking for others to help say "Happy Birthday" by giving to my dad's <a href="https://www.crowdrise.com/kickingcancerfortravis/fundraiser/dougbrasell" target="_blank">CROWDRISE</a> fund. I'm praying for a total of $6,600 to be given this week alone! Now, this takes math, and I'm gonna try my best: 100 people give $66, 10 people give $660, or everyone gives what they can, and I let God do the math. (That usually works out WAY better!)<br>
<br>
People have been very generous to give money, time, prayer, food and friendship to my family. We are all so grateful and humbled by how God is taking care of my dad (and each of us)! While my dad does have great medical coverage through medicare, the copays and prescription costs have come tumbling in. My mom has been able to pay small amounts on the copays for hospital stays, and most recently, enough money was given in 1 week to cover 1 month's worth of medicine! Humbled, I tell ya!<br>
<br>
My dad and mom have lived a life of helping others. They work so hard and give so much! Most of you may not know that my dad receives very little compensation (by his choosing) so that the church he pastors can have more money for giving and growth. My mom is still a faithful employee and goes to work every day at the age of 70! They have never put their hope in the ways of the world and truly live depending on the Lord. I am so grateful for every penny given and every prayer prayed on my family's behalf.<br>
<br>
If you can, please consider <a href="https://www.crowdrise.com/kickingcancerfortravis/fundraiser/dougbrasell" target="_blank">giving $66.00 today</a>! <a href="https://www.crowdrise.com/kickingcancerfortravis/fundraiser/dougbrasell" target="_blank">Give as you can.</a> <b><i>ANY</i></b> amount is wonderful!<br>
<br>
Click <a href="https://www.crowdrise.com/kickingcancerfortravis/fundraiser/dougbrasell" target="_blank">HERE</a> to give!<br>
<br>
THANK YOU!! One more thing, I'm so pleased you've stopped by our blog and taken time read these words. Would you please pass this post along: use #66celebration Post on Facebook, Tweet away.<div><br><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0jl0Rp53_nKAxqy8K3kZA3tqsai2404E3imf072nqmnB93ASuJUckP00aIo5xQguLE87DcYtXO8zLzGHq0fAb1YrYXkB5XYPaVX9OS5J2YRYwE76YSYTkaW9RpGbah6sNQ6fWRbcNAr8/s640/blogger-image--1823602015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0jl0Rp53_nKAxqy8K3kZA3tqsai2404E3imf072nqmnB93ASuJUckP00aIo5xQguLE87DcYtXO8zLzGHq0fAb1YrYXkB5XYPaVX9OS5J2YRYwE76YSYTkaW9RpGbah6sNQ6fWRbcNAr8/s640/blogger-image--1823602015.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br>
<br>
<br>
<br></div></div></div></div>Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-46604442561143627652015-05-11T00:00:00.000-06:002015-05-11T00:00:03.528-06:00MatchesToday is a special day. It's a day that changed my life ever before I knew it needed changing. This day came along many years ago, and somehow, I feel it was made just for me. Today is Brandon's birthday.<br />
<br />
This year, we're celebrating a bit differently. In fact, we're not even celebrating much at all. You see, I'm 20 hours away spending time with my mom and dad, because we just learned that my dad has cancer. Our children are in another state spending time with their other grandparents. Brandon is home doing what he does every day: working to take care of our family.<br />
<br />
I am so very grateful for him and the tremendous way he provides for our family. He serves his church and community with such care and love. Honestly, I feel like I married WAY up. (Yeah, he's a whole foot and few inches taller than me.) My girls and I recently calculated that he has served us approximately 3,000 meals in the past years. We can't even fathom the number of dishes he has washed.<br />
<br />
I could go on and on with telling you about all of his wonderful deeds. But, that's not Brandon. He really would want me to tell you about the wonderful, matchless love of Jesus. That's what he tells me about every day. He tells me through the way he loves. Matchless, yet matching. He matches Jesus in so many ways. And me, well, I'm just glad Jesus made Brandon and me matches. Happy Birthday, Brandon!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-64661409943286030072014-11-06T08:37:00.001-07:002014-11-06T08:37:53.491-07:00It was all in the wording...When my friend and fellow pastor's wife mentioned us ladies using greenery from our "live" Christmas trees, the laughter just came out. I glanced back at a friend sitting near me, expecting her to understand my sudden laughing fit, but her sweet smile just gave me that look that said she'd still be my friend when this was all over. I'm pretty sure she was just sympathizing with my crazy laughing, in the middle of a women's ministry meeting, during a moment when there really wasn't anything THAT funny being said. I mean, we were only talking about how to use fresh greenery as a centerpiece at our church ladies Christmas dinner. Not really altogether laughing material. Oh well. I couldn't even remember what was so funny after the meeting was over.<br />
<br />
Until this morning... I woke up and nearly tripped over my own ability to recall memories from the "live" Christmas trees in my past. I knew right away that was where the laughter came from. Three little words that struck laughter from the depths: "Live Christmas Tree".<br />
<br />
I've always loved the smell of a freshly picked Christmas tree. My parents used to load our family up a few weeks before Christmas and take us to a tree farm in order to find the most perfect tree ever. We would look, for what seemed like forever, and all compete to find THE tree. Did it have a straight trunk? Did it have good hanging space for the ornaments? Were there any live critters in it? Once found, the family meeting convened, and my dad sawed the tree down. We'd haul the tree to the farm's entrance, they'd shake it for all the dead needles to fall out, and we'd load it up to take it home. It was ALWAYS a fun family day setting up the Christmas tree, and I was left with the best memories as childhood slowly slipped away.<br />
<br />
Years later, I got married. Brandon and I married younger than most, and we found ourselves living in Texas so he could attend seminary. Our first Christmas together, I was insistent on having a live tree. We didn't have any extra money to spare, and we had also just found out that I was carrying a wee one in the belly. So, you can just imagine the amount of emotional trauma going on that year for Brandon: 1st Christmas, pregnant wife, no family, hardly any money... but the fresh tree was a must! So, he did the most valiant thing he could. He took me to Walmart and helped me pick out the cheapest pine tree we could find. OH MY WORD. It smelled so good in the house, but that was the only glorious tidbit about that darned little tree. The needles on that tree were so sharp that Brandon had to put on gloves so he could decorate it. Yes, I don't even know if I helped decorate it. Surely, this wasn't the way it was when I was a child! Those memories made everything feel so perfect. (Did I mention how much sneezing this live tree brought that year?)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Note from Brandon:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>She left out the morning (all-day) sickness and that she was "getting sick"every few minutes while the tree was being set-up. And the rash....My arms looked like I had been hauling poison ivy for hours. Then, a few days after getting this lovely tree, Kristen's grandmother passed away and we went back to Alabama for the funeral and stayed for Christmas...That's right...we weren't even at home with the tree for Christmas. Luckily, when we got back to Texas all the needles were already on the ground to save us the trouble of shaking them off. Good times...</i></div>
<br />
Fast forward to pretty much every Christmas thereafter and you will see me pining for my fresh tree, the perfect family memory, and yada, yada, yada. Brandon did manage to convince me that an artificial tree was the answer and that the house could smell good with some pine scented air freshener. He said our allergies would love us for the fake tree. He was right, but I still sulked and whined about our fake and insufficient tree EVERY year. Yep. Glorious, huh?<br />
<br />
With several Christmases under our belt, we found ourselves living in New Mexico in 2010. We had just moved to the desert region that fall, and those fresh trees at the local Home Depot were calling my name. There had been no lesson learned, and having a fresh tree in a region were there are hardly any natural growing trees seemed completely appropriate. Uh huh. Softer needles this time, I promised Brandon. Please, please, please! It will smell so good, I said. It will look so great, and it will really feel like Christmas this year, I begged. So, on Thanksgiving week, a full 4 weeks before Christmas, we bought our tree...a tree which had obviously come from some place very far away. The man said to water it lots. Like everyday. But, really? My dad had never watered our tree that much, had he? A live tree in Alabama (where I grew up) is the same as one in New Mexico, right? Plus, that tree was probably already half dead due to being cut and trucked in from who knows where. Anyhow, after having this new tree for a couple of weeks, it was SO dead. I mean, needles were shedding, branches were so brittle, and that beautiful green color was clearly draining from its lovely limbs. So, we used our best intelligence and decided that trimming the trunk must be the only solution to prolonging life. By this point, I was so nervous that it would catch fire at any moment, and Brandon graciously said he would saw the bottom of the tree off while I held it up, fully decorated, as he cut. Yep. We are awesome like that. I'm not sure how catastrophe didn't ensue, but the cutting happened, the tree was place properly back in its stand, and that bad boy was watered everyday like nobody's business. (We also learned a bit about water evaporation rates that year. Yep. New Mexico and Alabama have their differences.) By Christmas day, that tree was so very dead. I was reluctant to even have an electrical ANYTHING near it. I mean, it was on the verge of setting itself on fire just to be done with the misery. Did I mention the sneezing this year?<br />
<br />
Yeah, there probably won't be any fresh greenery from our "live Christmas tree" in my table's centerpiece. If there is, you can bet it won't be from any live tree we own. I'm officially over it. No more sneezing. No more gloves. No more fire hazards. But, there will be laughing. Thank you, Jesus, for memories, for laughter...and friends who will smile at me when I'm crazy. "Live Christmas Tree" It was all in the wording.<br />
<br />
<br />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-58169425533416596862013-02-28T18:03:00.000-07:002013-02-28T18:03:09.523-07:00Our Two Layered House - Month 3It is hard to believe that we've been in our new home for 3 months today! Time is flying! I must confess that this has been a difficult month for me. Maybe it's reality setting in... perhaps the honeymoon is over?! Maybe it's having to share a tiny bathroom as a family? Whatever it is, I'm feeling it. But, God is so good to gently remind me of His great love for me... that this house is just a "thing"...that He's going to use it in ways I can't even foresee...to mold me into a better person - a better wife, mother, neighbor...for His glory. So, I better just unfurl these fists of control and give it all to Him. I am so thankful that He rescues me from me. (I'm thankful for chocolate and cherry limeades, too.)<br />
<br />
So, what have we been up to at the house this month? Well, Day 1 of this month started out great! The concrete perimeter was poured around the house, and a new step was formed for the front porch. This completed the work we hired out...which began in early December. Woohoo! (<a href="http://www.vantage-eng.com/" target="_blank">Vantage Construction</a> did an incredible job! We praise God for them and for each member of their work crew.) Somewhere during month 3 we learned that we are going to have to rewire the house soon. Bummer. However, we will be glad to know it's done one day...and that we won't be melting any more electrical outlets. Hopefully.<br />
<br />
We also continued working on the upstairs bathroom remodel. After digging a little deeper into some of the problem areas in there, we realized that we really needed to remove the existing sheet-rock and tub surround. In its place, there will be is new drywall and soon - a tiled tub surround. Brandon also carved out some built-in shelving areas between the studs for some storage. He is doing a great job! This project feels like it's close to being done, but we aren't sure quite when it will be through.<br />
<br />
I do have to give a huge shout out to the people who have gone out of their way to help us this month... Thank you Kenny, John, Jacob, Dave, Ryan and Jennifer! We are so grateful!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwR5_8nzFK-hOnwvdtlPrxPz4Krgmu_1qgpdKRyRpgit6IGJDQuEACjSGLLdjKNPe0T9dxZXh3IH5Qpt6okLkVHROVp-aA-QkCFw9P4jInGhTyNIel2XJuefM-p6cHOmcc_s2fUWZitDU/s1600/blog+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwR5_8nzFK-hOnwvdtlPrxPz4Krgmu_1qgpdKRyRpgit6IGJDQuEACjSGLLdjKNPe0T9dxZXh3IH5Qpt6okLkVHROVp-aA-QkCFw9P4jInGhTyNIel2XJuefM-p6cHOmcc_s2fUWZitDU/s320/blog+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Demo-ing the upstairs bathroom.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrJQKq4MphvLbiEXqe8u5xU-RJX73FeeZDnrWFvEiiL5ksuGaXkvlXSADuKuIJLQkHFa-U5Juirq-2JVfyNVeacayGozzVdwy7crAIisxn_eSMpHvlXqZ5NvDeTaox_9eiBzLGLcw9ow/s1600/blog+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrJQKq4MphvLbiEXqe8u5xU-RJX73FeeZDnrWFvEiiL5ksuGaXkvlXSADuKuIJLQkHFa-U5Juirq-2JVfyNVeacayGozzVdwy7crAIisxn_eSMpHvlXqZ5NvDeTaox_9eiBzLGLcw9ow/s320/blog+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh, yeah... Brandon built a table for our bathroom, too!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkimahCUMhsi0BBegYESGlHWIhVBqqedOKhEGatoOa1_7XnXlh971s32Jx48prqPrpFug7jAOdAZmnKJ-cI5B8STglqmWXI73rdspqER7CYpk7Y2UWppvJ9vn0vGnHkKLzNOFQq41PGc8/s1600/blog+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkimahCUMhsi0BBegYESGlHWIhVBqqedOKhEGatoOa1_7XnXlh971s32Jx48prqPrpFug7jAOdAZmnKJ-cI5B8STglqmWXI73rdspqER7CYpk7Y2UWppvJ9vn0vGnHkKLzNOFQq41PGc8/s320/blog+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We all helped.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrwEbDWMJkvc8WCVYnhlVpxpmhvzCXNVwikF4N1NdJixPpIocuafSfFRjIsHJ5PEb3kOdZr1mDIRuKq5R7wkKWAiToesJPbJ_h1Z42uhzEno6-HYzblvJaT48QLYtmI-ej4zLn4yLZW24/s1600/blog+10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrwEbDWMJkvc8WCVYnhlVpxpmhvzCXNVwikF4N1NdJixPpIocuafSfFRjIsHJ5PEb3kOdZr1mDIRuKq5R7wkKWAiToesJPbJ_h1Z42uhzEno6-HYzblvJaT48QLYtmI-ej4zLn4yLZW24/s320/blog+10.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do we need a rewire?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-jbL7WwUaMfg9dswozejOWU8tLWZNpfTTOhKk1AScGRBXRirv3VRXl2lGwc3j64XngiPRyUhJteEaXkDI0x3IX35IvMo-EJe6iAis0zo8dysMFF7aA1IUdbw3m3BeT5J4HIPMRgvrXA/s1600/blog+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-jbL7WwUaMfg9dswozejOWU8tLWZNpfTTOhKk1AScGRBXRirv3VRXl2lGwc3j64XngiPRyUhJteEaXkDI0x3IX35IvMo-EJe6iAis0zo8dysMFF7aA1IUdbw3m3BeT5J4HIPMRgvrXA/s320/blog+4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cement being poured...stucco patch waiting to be painted.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR8Vo_Z_FRIe61i01lIxVkALkPK2-2FdClEzONVf_LcJuvuTLQLzQa16YWMFdJXCqOgh2lL9_i4v_qfpa07NTazi7ErsAl_Pluv7BFzp2mIj7utnNAB4Jo7EgJHXlsXQzgz4PZpLYCONI/s1600/blog+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR8Vo_Z_FRIe61i01lIxVkALkPK2-2FdClEzONVf_LcJuvuTLQLzQa16YWMFdJXCqOgh2lL9_i4v_qfpa07NTazi7ErsAl_Pluv7BFzp2mIj7utnNAB4Jo7EgJHXlsXQzgz4PZpLYCONI/s320/blog+5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking a break to play, fly kites, and run!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi240_gw9xYmQT8dmTxLT7DDhVHocSDAiCnLLXG652Dy529sA8Zei-lxrIgIbyz_wHD472Qom_iytuQb_hFdPlcJMzpA90yD_S4m0j5LxZ7lAwphyphenhyphenVzmnqMTdRtH-5OVruQimfXx0GuqtY/s1600/blog+6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi240_gw9xYmQT8dmTxLT7DDhVHocSDAiCnLLXG652Dy529sA8Zei-lxrIgIbyz_wHD472Qom_iytuQb_hFdPlcJMzpA90yD_S4m0j5LxZ7lAwphyphenhyphenVzmnqMTdRtH-5OVruQimfXx0GuqtY/s320/blog+6.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Because sometimes you just need to lie back and relax...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhloYXT1NqIN4DEuAhvysZFURaRbMKz3q2qj5-dGkXW1jegmhsJI6lhbQ7mQcRrZZ6ClYjctaBQxqMojCxZLSDFGw4Q9sjN9RF6PBoNYWvoAaoHW6c-NKAvs8g2816nRCK02M5cAlttgJc/s1600/blog+7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhloYXT1NqIN4DEuAhvysZFURaRbMKz3q2qj5-dGkXW1jegmhsJI6lhbQ7mQcRrZZ6ClYjctaBQxqMojCxZLSDFGw4Q9sjN9RF6PBoNYWvoAaoHW6c-NKAvs8g2816nRCK02M5cAlttgJc/s320/blog+7.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clara flying her kite so high!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_qHwb9rbVt6coL4IEiagPS_ZEpnFKaDL9rGsXatb0Al80RPfPCmoAy3vlgUzXT4XbIvKphi0jPhZPq4-cDlUAwZq6FiNbwq5NffE1gbjCZMqjvz-6NxPHWfcziNsEmrVmBfmZYX2lr9Y/s1600/blog+8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_qHwb9rbVt6coL4IEiagPS_ZEpnFKaDL9rGsXatb0Al80RPfPCmoAy3vlgUzXT4XbIvKphi0jPhZPq4-cDlUAwZq6FiNbwq5NffE1gbjCZMqjvz-6NxPHWfcziNsEmrVmBfmZYX2lr9Y/s320/blog+8.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Take off!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPKUzwHazEtyJFSd9DLJ6lD_G-hfqb4RqSusxM53zfrOyXfffOo2j3n9IwqB3LL_uvJ0g7cje_ZiRHiPnA0RUvntY57eQHMwoHqCaJisyKS8NGPSr2rmLg6JwlJbDxoKa09Wn-a-7_cvk/s1600/blog+9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPKUzwHazEtyJFSd9DLJ6lD_G-hfqb4RqSusxM53zfrOyXfffOo2j3n9IwqB3LL_uvJ0g7cje_ZiRHiPnA0RUvntY57eQHMwoHqCaJisyKS8NGPSr2rmLg6JwlJbDxoKa09Wn-a-7_cvk/s320/blog+9.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brandon and Jacob installing a vent to the upstairs bathroom...Maybe we'll see how it works by month 4! :-) #Hopeful</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Anyway, even though we are on a time frame to get several major projects done, we know that this house is a side thing. Well, I'm learning that... I think. ;-) Ministry, homeschooling, directing Classical Conversations and volunteering at the Boys & Girls Club are the other (main) things that keep us busy. Taking time to put the trampoline up and fly kites is important, too!Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-81496612293099601382013-02-12T04:00:00.000-07:002013-02-12T11:28:53.546-07:00The Pastor's Wife (in)couragers<img src="http://www.incourage.me/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/MAIN1.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<div style="color: #595959; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 15px; padding: 0px;">
<div style="font-family: 'Droid Sans', 'Lucida Grande', Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you are a pastor's wife and have found your way here, welcome! I'm thrilled to be co-leading an<a href="http://www.incourage.me/incourage-community-groups" target="_blank"> (in)courager</a> community group this session for a brand new group for the wives of those whose husbands serve in <b>any</b> ministry capacity (not just senior pastors' wives). Or more affectionately known as <b>"The Pastor's Wife"</b>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you're not a pastor's wife, don't leave!! Read on, Click on! There's an <a href="http://www.incourage.me/incourage-community-groups" target="_blank">(in)courager</a> group for nearly every woman on the planet...truly, there is something for everyone. Just click on any of the the <a href="http://www.incourage.me/incourage-community-groups" target="_blank">(in)courage</a> linkies to find your way over to register for a group made just for you. Registration is ongoing throughout this month. And people, this is a SHORT term commitment. So, no worries, right?! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here's what all the hoopla is about. Trust me, it's good hoopla. :-)</span></div>
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #595959; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 15px; padding: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What are <a href="http://www.incourage.me/incourage-community-groups" target="_blank">(in)courager </a>groups?</span></i></strong></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #595959; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 15px; padding: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 15px; padding: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The (in)courager community groups exist to build safe, Christ-centered, welcoming, small groups for women through the (in)courage website and social media. With a variety of topics to choose from, the groups and your co-leaders are here to serve you, just as you are and where you are, in this season. We invite you to find a place that feels comfortable, where you can kick off your shoes, snuggle into the comfy couch and share your life with like-minded, Jesus-loving women around the world.</span></i></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #595959; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 15px; padding: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s a place where you can grow in your friendships with other women and be encouraged to deepen your relationship with God. (in)courager groups will be led by a team of women who have a heart for serving. They aren’t experts, but have a willingness to walk with others and (in)courage them along the way.</span></i></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #595959; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 15px; padding: 0px;">
<div style="font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now, please let me introduce you to a dear sister in Christ and fellow wife of a Pastor. I am so blessed to co-lead this session alongside her! Meet Wendy who blogs over at <a href="http://www.rockinwhatyagot.com/about/" target="_blank">Rockin' What Ya Got</a>!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3SBpeWWnDbYidIbZdoES5gDdZatyXHZ-qmHUo40Njo3tDc-PTVFXiyjIvf4O6p80Wn6cVHHcbufPChhaHXaNgjYg9XNz3f7sLfmw7vJHvx211fIlltK8-6c3DjIeo5KkKNnTQOICtCHs/s1600/Wendy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3SBpeWWnDbYidIbZdoES5gDdZatyXHZ-qmHUo40Njo3tDc-PTVFXiyjIvf4O6p80Wn6cVHHcbufPChhaHXaNgjYg9XNz3f7sLfmw7vJHvx211fIlltK8-6c3DjIeo5KkKNnTQOICtCHs/s320/Wendy.jpg" width="213" /></span></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #595959; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 15px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #595959; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 15px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And, I'm Kristen.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #595959; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 15px; padding: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjem2ANiZParDZiD-UqyHcCe-hbL3q8vyRJgw0QurLLOEC1uwjYRYjVYyNaIaN2d3nR1Lip8MHG53OxhsK_LBiz067GDMXpxB6iCtBd-lafSOd1CMM9IlVCeXWQRdXGy0hJ2oCW15Uk04/s1600/Kristen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjem2ANiZParDZiD-UqyHcCe-hbL3q8vyRJgw0QurLLOEC1uwjYRYjVYyNaIaN2d3nR1Lip8MHG53OxhsK_LBiz067GDMXpxB6iCtBd-lafSOd1CMM9IlVCeXWQRdXGy0hJ2oCW15Uk04/s320/Kristen.jpg" width="263" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I blog here at <a href="http://www.ourhomejoyfulhome.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Our Home Joyful Home</a>. My hubby serves as a Children's Pastor, and my dad also serves as a Senior Pastor. I am so blessed to walk this road alongside my husband, and I am ultra privileged to have a mom who is an AWESOME pastor's wife! </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Pastor's Wife group will be meeting over at <b>Facebook</b>. We'll have a <i>secret group</i> in hopes of ensuring everyone's privacy within our group. You can email Wendy at <b><a href="mailto:thepastorswifeincouragement@gmail.com">thepastorswifeincouragement@gmail.com</a></b> to get all set up to access our group. Once you're in The Pastor's Wife Facebook group, please check your notifications for updates and to stay connected with everyone. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you haven't already registered for our group at <a href="http://www.incourage.me/incourage-community-groups" target="_blank">(in)courage</a>, you'll need to do that, too. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wendy and I are so excited to be sharing with each of you pastor's wives. We each walk a unique road, and it will be awesome as we <a href="http://www.incourage.me/incourage-community-groups" target="_blank">(in)courage</a> one another along the way. We've been praying for you!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wendy and I will be hanging out today over at The Pastor's Wife. So, be sure to email Wendy <a href="mailto:thepastorswifeincouragement@gmail.com"><b>thepastorswifeincouragement@gmail.com</b></a> and get yourselves all set up! Can't wait to meet you!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-61552981324052549862013-01-28T16:55:00.000-07:002013-01-28T16:55:31.466-07:00Our Two Layered House - Month 2We are loving our new home! There is so much hard work happening all the time, but we have certainly found time to sit down and relax, too. One thing is for sure, home-ownership is not for the weary...especially owning a house built in 1936.<br />
<br />
Month 2 started out with a bang... You remember me mentioning about giving Brandon a garbage disposal? Well, he began installing it on Dec. 29, and it turned into a 3 day project. I've learned so much about plumbing! It was hard work, but I am so pleased to that Brandon was able to get the job done. He's the man! We're both seriously loving having a basement with such easy access to all the plumbing. I'm not sure how many trips we took to various hardware stores around here. Although, the girls may have kept count.<br />
;-)<br />
<br />
Another major thing Brandon was able to do was install an exterior door in the "breakfast" nook. (Maybe we'll be able to eat in there one day.) The door opening presented several challenges...let me count thy ways. But, hey, it's in. That's what counts, right?<br />
<br />
Other than that, we've been busy trying to organize the house better, chip mortar from the salvaged bricks, clean up and clear out the overgrown yard, demo a bathroom, paint a wall, paint bookshelves and headboards, fix a leaky roof spot, do life, etc. I really do love it. I love how all the work makes us more connected to our community as we meet new people at the hardware stores, shop at the smaller stores around us, meet new neighbors, borrow tools from friends, talk "home talk" with others at church, etc. Oh, I also am thrilled to live closer to church! It's such a central part of our lives, and it makes things easier than I EVER thought. I might should also mention that I am learning how to better trust my very capable husband. You'd think I had that down after nearly 12 years of marriage. :-) If he says he can fix it, he can... he will. He has the patience of Job when it comes to hard, meticulous work.<br />
<br />
About new neighbors... we live next door Mr. Mack. He has got to be one of the best neighbors! Often, I will find he and Brandon chatting over the fence. I think he is like our Wilson from the old TV show 'Home Improvement'. He has given us marriage advice, shared food with us, lent us tools... he even came over and cut down a dead tree for us. He rocks! We praise God for him.<br />
<br />
Here are a few pics in no particular order. I'm so glad to have snapped some. It makes me realize several things that I had forgotten we've done this past month. On to month 3! :-)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPjx9JRqP-zZOe14725fb3QHcKAk3t4ZwE92dbiajTL1ST7XA6y-9qkzb7yKvX92Zgh8IUl-MFpocx5NCQ-DDdp4E56mnhcW66Sy_ySn1giZ72PdF4gKebudlN4ENGLe7S8EF8XGV10qc/s1600/blog1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPjx9JRqP-zZOe14725fb3QHcKAk3t4ZwE92dbiajTL1ST7XA6y-9qkzb7yKvX92Zgh8IUl-MFpocx5NCQ-DDdp4E56mnhcW66Sy_ySn1giZ72PdF4gKebudlN4ENGLe7S8EF8XGV10qc/s320/blog1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brandon made some attic access to work add a new vent pipe for the plumbing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVMdauRbbzGzeoL_LemmA7xQ2SHpzgHWYm0cReylZZi2KaMXNDysBX6BBf8yuxYytL_BPEfmkd8hHuDnwGgvJq_beyUFuTTOVBquqCC8lDW-eSihOOdF53KLfxNFHZ-q6fI-zRTPdZIiY/s1600/blog3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVMdauRbbzGzeoL_LemmA7xQ2SHpzgHWYm0cReylZZi2KaMXNDysBX6BBf8yuxYytL_BPEfmkd8hHuDnwGgvJq_beyUFuTTOVBquqCC8lDW-eSihOOdF53KLfxNFHZ-q6fI-zRTPdZIiY/s320/blog3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying (I think) a ride at Home Depot.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOARoYm25dmyDqWzPUJRwkT917xYFTpsKv4JEKWQUnKGAdyUrztZ-RHS0pJ_6UxPKNG14AHWnIVgD52F0m-dJaHlKIGJVUEI1zc2sJ8FWnt9BUvK4bkpetLgRJKSRWkbfaWlyODAROuM/s1600/blog2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOARoYm25dmyDqWzPUJRwkT917xYFTpsKv4JEKWQUnKGAdyUrztZ-RHS0pJ_6UxPKNG14AHWnIVgD52F0m-dJaHlKIGJVUEI1zc2sJ8FWnt9BUvK4bkpetLgRJKSRWkbfaWlyODAROuM/s320/blog2.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretending to blow things up while waiting on mom and dad at Home Depot.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv2lI5psU8LCxkFK_fRVTnW-3s6zRbjXJ-UF45w03xr1acLOFrpCQGGNSlK5AKH24q2sADDf7Zz5OL6XrnwRLd6djsD-rjKDk1F77klD0roH-M57U7Zl0NpYIHs8sBEx9uP7xlOWdJU3M/s1600/blog4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv2lI5psU8LCxkFK_fRVTnW-3s6zRbjXJ-UF45w03xr1acLOFrpCQGGNSlK5AKH24q2sADDf7Zz5OL6XrnwRLd6djsD-rjKDk1F77klD0roH-M57U7Zl0NpYIHs8sBEx9uP7xlOWdJU3M/s320/blog4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A new faucet and new reverse osmosis system!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PSCH9CGcw6chpnygv-WO_8WNuDCCx8Bqsx3IaONZ-0NUr2mbnk9huhs_rVKB4MF1Ol0olCm8iH_skcqyAV9baMshPQ7ovy_rZX9IFczk-3gMal7ov2h0eP0opXmb3YqF6YYpd4WtYhg/s1600/blog6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PSCH9CGcw6chpnygv-WO_8WNuDCCx8Bqsx3IaONZ-0NUr2mbnk9huhs_rVKB4MF1Ol0olCm8iH_skcqyAV9baMshPQ7ovy_rZX9IFczk-3gMal7ov2h0eP0opXmb3YqF6YYpd4WtYhg/s320/blog6.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Libby helping paint old bookshelves. Clara helped a lot, too.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHQPHMP8HmheyLoZvg49P57sK9-mSQJPm1ntJl7f9ox8ymhn5zHXGDK-UInOMoBxXLp_Uj1lQCIJuQAFVdTI0hZTCc8h_VAZ1q5W2E52Pc7-f5wydgqfk6OoMHQs2EyqfDQA_gYZoS4aU/s1600/blog5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHQPHMP8HmheyLoZvg49P57sK9-mSQJPm1ntJl7f9ox8ymhn5zHXGDK-UInOMoBxXLp_Uj1lQCIJuQAFVdTI0hZTCc8h_VAZ1q5W2E52Pc7-f5wydgqfk6OoMHQs2EyqfDQA_gYZoS4aU/s320/blog5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clara's version of protective eye wear and head gear! LOL!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKFAy3LQX9tUHGO0EKckurXWjWLaYptH-abw7MqeLpkDdnLoIKJ6XSOXR0LgejlvgXDDW19LMRCCMNP0tV4esTV7rKSYpRbZGyuqwUTlaIYxBz9BrbQxW3sbGBjSVf7HTwn1CK2cDPJ18/s1600/blog7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKFAy3LQX9tUHGO0EKckurXWjWLaYptH-abw7MqeLpkDdnLoIKJ6XSOXR0LgejlvgXDDW19LMRCCMNP0tV4esTV7rKSYpRbZGyuqwUTlaIYxBz9BrbQxW3sbGBjSVf7HTwn1CK2cDPJ18/s320/blog7.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scraping weird texture off a bathroom wall.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd3UDtd5BPpHwDC8PKC2F8JkVbrf7cfRIZ7uW0r9CDeKDkoNDznc7VcwYFr9jq91jKGiJglUqyrEdzgRiTgvI7oangkooSEnayPZ9xayFXoH27CHYl0771-quklWVj6aleL8AcszZIsGU/s1600/blog8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd3UDtd5BPpHwDC8PKC2F8JkVbrf7cfRIZ7uW0r9CDeKDkoNDznc7VcwYFr9jq91jKGiJglUqyrEdzgRiTgvI7oangkooSEnayPZ9xayFXoH27CHYl0771-quklWVj6aleL8AcszZIsGU/s320/blog8.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Out with the old!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-10880906626165813702013-01-22T17:21:00.000-07:002013-01-22T17:21:31.945-07:00(in)courageHave you ever had a friend grab your hand and drag you along on a new adventure? Well, that's exactly what <a href="http://www.rockinwhatyagot.com/about/" target="_blank">Wendy</a> has done to me! She has shown me the world of <a href="http://www.incourage.me/" target="_blank">(in)courage</a>. :-) It's so great! It's kinda a word I've seen around the www for awhile, but I didn't really know what it was. So, go ahead and click on over to <a href="http://www.incourage.me/" target="_blank">(in)courage</a> to see what it's all about. Trust me... good stuff there!<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Today's post over at <a href="http://www.incourage.me/" target="_blank">(in)courage</a> happens to be about <a href="http://www.incourage.me/2013/01/10-things-i-learned-from-incourage-community-groups.html" target="_blank">(in)courager groups</a>. This is one of the things that has me so excited about the whole thing! Wendy and I will be leading an <a href="http://www.incourage.me/2013/01/10-things-i-learned-from-incourage-community-groups.html" target="_blank">(in)courager group</a> session that begins on Feb. 12. There are lots of groups forming, and it's sure to be a neat way to be encouraged and supported by your fellow sisters in Christ. I hope you'll stay tuned and find a group that's the perfect fit for you. Just click on those linky words... Can't wait!</div>
<span style="border: 0px; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font: inherit; line-height: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ZNlvE2cjH24" width="420"></iframe></div>
Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-57615261874483309152012-12-31T08:14:00.001-07:002012-12-31T08:14:59.237-07:00If You Give Brandon a Garbage Disposal...<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo2UtrNOhv0ylD0Qy8AalUu2DklQBXCUFa-3lvSGYFsQqEu-kbQNaZs4AiQT2UucWoXGYZaLilW9V6PC-D9N11oNubmI922E4DbeYwJLqRxH7s3mXjMVreUp3dfLg8-iECTebOgOrTUWA/s1600/photo-799237.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo2UtrNOhv0ylD0Qy8AalUu2DklQBXCUFa-3lvSGYFsQqEu-kbQNaZs4AiQT2UucWoXGYZaLilW9V6PC-D9N11oNubmI922E4DbeYwJLqRxH7s3mXjMVreUp3dfLg8-iECTebOgOrTUWA/s320/photo-799237.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5828128463153525282" /></a></p>Replacing the garbage disposal is taking us on a lonnngg plumbing journey! Today begins day #3. Stay tuned for a more detailed post...gotta love plumbing the Two Layered House way!Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-47540482208181597612012-12-27T18:06:00.000-07:002012-12-27T18:06:37.402-07:00Our Two Layered House - Month 1Tomorrow will mark the one month date of owning our new home. What a month it has been! I've been wanting to update everyone on the house, but there just hasn't been the time, or the internet connection, or the computer out of the box, or the perfect pictures to go with... Anyway, I am forcing myself to sit down and update as best as I can. I think that blogging about the house will help me realize how much has been down already instead of focusing on everything that is still undone. Undone... That's a place we'll be awhile. ;-)<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After signing the 100s of papers that made this sweet little place ours, we did want any new homeowner would do. We drove right over and ran excitedly through the house thinking of all the things to be done and dreaming of what would make it lovely in our eyes. We quickly got back to the reality of work, school, packing, moving, construction work...all with Christmas gaining closer and closer on our heels. Brandon was in charge of 3 performances of a major Christmas production at church, and the girls and I were right by his side as much as we could be. As if that wasn't enough, we were also helping the construction team (more in a minute) at the new house. Did I mention all the packing, cleaning, and moving going on somewhere in the midst? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Christmas didn't slow down, and we did get moved in. Finally! :-) Everything went great at church, and somehow, we all survived this month. We have been over and abundantly blessed by the prayers, love, cards, Christmas gifts, meals, etc. that have come our way. We are also incredibly grateful to be part of a fellowship of believers who served our community during the Christmas season. Truly, it was an amazing month, and I consider it pretty near miraculous! :-) </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Now, what has been done this month to the house?</div>
<div>
1. Two Chimneys and fireplaces gone! </div>
<div>
2. Foundation repair done! </div>
<div>
3. Some damaged plaster removed</div>
<div>
4. Two toilets removed </div>
<div>
5. Two new toilets installed</div>
<div>
6. Water softener now working </div>
<div>
7. Master bedroom walls and ceiling painted </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvJZNr4E0uIPL6uSLJ0AdvuyoGB0oK-WyPwYJugmmb7_fX65FH0RYO0aMNtoBcE0ofu3kUfVT5iUEt85TJFeXYeOzzGT_nQkOVAtW6GexH_rxw_bXWl_ndzKqkDwApyHuZjbvUitgLaM/s1600/blog1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvJZNr4E0uIPL6uSLJ0AdvuyoGB0oK-WyPwYJugmmb7_fX65FH0RYO0aMNtoBcE0ofu3kUfVT5iUEt85TJFeXYeOzzGT_nQkOVAtW6GexH_rxw_bXWl_ndzKqkDwApyHuZjbvUitgLaM/s320/blog1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Main Chimney halfway down</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguBdEHqHsTAQI_JbfE1dQiSN_7Y9c1zrOv9OjEroQaVPaFYFI9HLnT3FafzGAp2FBGbeNCepBj5Vl7TuScJ_MQKnfinCEkSxcPAurmD6IDO97YJSu9gYv9NaPxaCtEkfXbqN_GTkMBhyphenhyphenI/s1600/blog2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguBdEHqHsTAQI_JbfE1dQiSN_7Y9c1zrOv9OjEroQaVPaFYFI9HLnT3FafzGAp2FBGbeNCepBj5Vl7TuScJ_MQKnfinCEkSxcPAurmD6IDO97YJSu9gYv9NaPxaCtEkfXbqN_GTkMBhyphenhyphenI/s320/blog2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brandon hauling bricks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4tOua-0hO1KEiYNYGlJjO9Jbm6a6-Zoj3FXLv5W4AuatnWja_U3yaiXB1jCUud49-uhm67Pa2LA2XuSvzpNxdzI8ReVjj2qIWKU85G4mqBvB821RCnhYeum1m_PqroAKwHHOrJQy2CCw/s1600/blog3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4tOua-0hO1KEiYNYGlJjO9Jbm6a6-Zoj3FXLv5W4AuatnWja_U3yaiXB1jCUud49-uhm67Pa2LA2XuSvzpNxdzI8ReVjj2qIWKU85G4mqBvB821RCnhYeum1m_PqroAKwHHOrJQy2CCw/s320/blog3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The girls standing by Chimney #2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgePqNNNQqGSA9qLJYGZH_EAY2TLb8hoXyAKYvOCX3A7yxqM2w82jRNEvyrWke7cUrybw3zR4NeD9ViwXbP5XtZ6frkeexDiTk1BOOdjfvR8gLAO1g7dA19CXVj8DauRKV2lBzHUxqiR0k/s1600/blog5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgePqNNNQqGSA9qLJYGZH_EAY2TLb8hoXyAKYvOCX3A7yxqM2w82jRNEvyrWke7cUrybw3zR4NeD9ViwXbP5XtZ6frkeexDiTk1BOOdjfvR8gLAO1g7dA19CXVj8DauRKV2lBzHUxqiR0k/s320/blog5.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Libby kneeling the hole Brandon and friends dug</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxbQqZsGNptaREVmsmOnrjrvHjLRyWELdoAg1ivR_uI1np3KXJjjpKx-3dVYPQviXrCw4hxwDVKVd-8uZOLm8WeINsmn1Pir61x4FVZ52MQd9kIb8Etnm69M2Q-azfP6S4dluuoA0Sp8/s1600/blog6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxbQqZsGNptaREVmsmOnrjrvHjLRyWELdoAg1ivR_uI1np3KXJjjpKx-3dVYPQviXrCw4hxwDVKVd-8uZOLm8WeINsmn1Pir61x4FVZ52MQd9kIb8Etnm69M2Q-azfP6S4dluuoA0Sp8/s320/blog6.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clara helping dig a hole</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
We hired a construction company to remove the chimneys and fireplaces which were in severe disrepair. They also did the foundation work. Brandon worked right alongside them hauling brick (which we saved in hopes of making a patio), digging additional holes, pouring cement, and refilling said holes. We praise God for the men who came alongside him to help with this project because it was hard work and we were racing the clock. Libby, Clara, and I all helped, too. I know this requires a bit of explanation...in a nutshell, the construction company showed Brandon how to get some additional foundation support for very little out of pocket cost to us... This required the additional and immediate work on our part.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We are very excited about our Two Layered House! (By the way, that's what Clara named this house.) Please do forgive me for any randomness and errors in this post...I think Santa's sleigh ran me over. ;-)</div>
Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-15384516979359229682012-10-31T23:22:00.001-06:002012-10-31T23:22:07.465-06:0031 Days of Life: Day 31 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had a great night doing Light up the Night tonight in our driveway. We handed out around 175 tracts, glow necklaces and bags of candy. We did a Buddy the Elf theme. Brandon brought a few props home from church, and everyone loved our get-up. I know these pics are somewhat out of order, but I am too tired to try to make it perfect. I also have to add that I love living in a neighborhood that is kind to trick or treating. It really is a lot of fun, and it can be a great way to meet your neighbors. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPTuBQjg5BFD-jQx15Mufn8LaBS22qxdeslzWwHDnTnbHBV4LREBz7J2qr7q1P9Z6HRgGCwFWveps5NfQFMLAO3UKdc6r8RhWg0xl3tMi6swGMnlES8tVjs4sm6jxZx4naoXQIscPRRpM/s1600/photo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPTuBQjg5BFD-jQx15Mufn8LaBS22qxdeslzWwHDnTnbHBV4LREBz7J2qr7q1P9Z6HRgGCwFWveps5NfQFMLAO3UKdc6r8RhWg0xl3tMi6swGMnlES8tVjs4sm6jxZx4naoXQIscPRRpM/s320/photo1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisH3f41h130eHxeUxi3iWvHkTleaiO_NvwDqFVS_vOnjtIqrisOvP_bvrDrGd0Wr1PLcUwnS6iwgY8KSgRp8xx1VFe6M8J_rXSIjYfGraFCdZLtxL8MhzdnW0sXjSxXN4Gls0TG9SA7E8/s1600/photo2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisH3f41h130eHxeUxi3iWvHkTleaiO_NvwDqFVS_vOnjtIqrisOvP_bvrDrGd0Wr1PLcUwnS6iwgY8KSgRp8xx1VFe6M8J_rXSIjYfGraFCdZLtxL8MhzdnW0sXjSxXN4Gls0TG9SA7E8/s320/photo2.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpD70W8HJitF788ClH7gux9ZZDYuo1-U0okCHgsvqhD7JhqurCiY3uPnMOKJUfQ6JFPpTkxI96yxBXL0I7VCw0KA_360-m_3VtKCk3vNUtX6aK4FYrx3HJV5FtUWtacHTCLpbFuut7YbI/s1600/photo3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpD70W8HJitF788ClH7gux9ZZDYuo1-U0okCHgsvqhD7JhqurCiY3uPnMOKJUfQ6JFPpTkxI96yxBXL0I7VCw0KA_360-m_3VtKCk3vNUtX6aK4FYrx3HJV5FtUWtacHTCLpbFuut7YbI/s320/photo3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjFe4ERTEYj5rvPhPJ5kGJIunkDsIbKhw6ROlAANGaPO7AmY1fM0R5meWnJ65b-qCL534YwCyEc9OBWduB951mEEBcyHJ-1f4LrMwqybUN0R-oPxlA6aUDzX1mSxYiiXo_NWb2ucsyKQA/s1600/photo4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjFe4ERTEYj5rvPhPJ5kGJIunkDsIbKhw6ROlAANGaPO7AmY1fM0R5meWnJ65b-qCL534YwCyEc9OBWduB951mEEBcyHJ-1f4LrMwqybUN0R-oPxlA6aUDzX1mSxYiiXo_NWb2ucsyKQA/s320/photo4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-LMtWv5Ccz1aYOZzubhvtQY0_8m5eQ3PTxwSc0TFzsz-tUhJSCLTFgK4D6hENsdFqdMlZRAHIl-ts-_mOsYBStxu8DtN5MKzNY5i3AGL4k-94KI2MqJZugkw7YDXYkAd4LH6cUMD-wvI/s1600/photo5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-LMtWv5Ccz1aYOZzubhvtQY0_8m5eQ3PTxwSc0TFzsz-tUhJSCLTFgK4D6hENsdFqdMlZRAHIl-ts-_mOsYBStxu8DtN5MKzNY5i3AGL4k-94KI2MqJZugkw7YDXYkAd4LH6cUMD-wvI/s320/photo5.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvK9rhrQzVs2Oa_WOoZuM0BAEZ0t4ANsvJoulwNyWfbvjiq_Ad0bRT24qRR8pK9C42DlYxUsEYRtASB7Jl2K4ivsc7KtBojAJWDxrrdmxbCCUSKq7af7GjT-dLRdbm7wYR7oS8P6o7pQ0/s1600/photo6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvK9rhrQzVs2Oa_WOoZuM0BAEZ0t4ANsvJoulwNyWfbvjiq_Ad0bRT24qRR8pK9C42DlYxUsEYRtASB7Jl2K4ivsc7KtBojAJWDxrrdmxbCCUSKq7af7GjT-dLRdbm7wYR7oS8P6o7pQ0/s320/photo6.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMQOKTvsxsjcTkUqkXEowyvF95iYjk3xZQd8bDjppgZ5ZswhYCREBoS5rxiGJ3m4LSW9HKyx2LuUjemJUfKLODztFudC4u-pHp1xSRTF-1-A5lXzy9cEcd4gtc4_kkpL6pFPcmcLVOfg/s1600/photo7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMQOKTvsxsjcTkUqkXEowyvF95iYjk3xZQd8bDjppgZ5ZswhYCREBoS5rxiGJ3m4LSW9HKyx2LuUjemJUfKLODztFudC4u-pHp1xSRTF-1-A5lXzy9cEcd4gtc4_kkpL6pFPcmcLVOfg/s320/photo7.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSd8NXBLFF6bLyONOLwHumE71_uXzCKjCTDsr-y0HyiXLDuJX8xUcunBCl5sn7VtNzvLqZvlXDFRXoYbY2FHXmYntF5hbfK5GhUSr0M79WSBH_SpEVLG7QMV9LMm0-I4sWWEYoSODCfm8/s1600/photo8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSd8NXBLFF6bLyONOLwHumE71_uXzCKjCTDsr-y0HyiXLDuJX8xUcunBCl5sn7VtNzvLqZvlXDFRXoYbY2FHXmYntF5hbfK5GhUSr0M79WSBH_SpEVLG7QMV9LMm0-I4sWWEYoSODCfm8/s320/photo8.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_g3IDcn5WAhWMIDMcSzt_aX8UnBTiQE66pdlH9wAofdzACPjxUCbLl-G3KpF1ICeSOQfBv2gnogarTzOhM2cWJ7VQH_O9Yt6dWfy_1PyLImIqVFPSehGyXnMrx-OkfgTAheJPgS5xfuI/s1600/photo9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_g3IDcn5WAhWMIDMcSzt_aX8UnBTiQE66pdlH9wAofdzACPjxUCbLl-G3KpF1ICeSOQfBv2gnogarTzOhM2cWJ7VQH_O9Yt6dWfy_1PyLImIqVFPSehGyXnMrx-OkfgTAheJPgS5xfuI/s320/photo9.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-13866503749021559312012-10-30T22:46:00.000-06:002012-10-30T22:46:11.691-06:0031 Days of Life: Day 30We are excited to get to hang out with our community tomorrow night for Halloween. The girls and Brandon have been busy planning our theme for Light Up the Night, and it's going to be a lot of fun! The plan is to hang out in the driveway and give out good candy, glow necklaces and tracts to all of the people that come our way. We will also provide lots of smiles and encouragement and just try to show a glimpse of Jesus to everyone He brings to our humble abode.<br />
<br />
It's awesome to think that 5,000 glow necklaces and tracts will be given out all over our city because of all the fellow church members who are participating. We think it totally rocks!! It's our hearts cry that God causes us to fall in love with this city...these people... all for Him. He loves them!<br />
<br />
<br />
<img height="298" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/285605_10151484926563056_501558155_n.jpg" width="400" />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-53691058655455858372012-10-29T22:33:00.001-06:002012-10-29T22:46:03.470-06:0031 Days of Life: Day 29<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">
Tonight, I'd like to share one of my favorite blogs with you. Layla and Kevin Palmer live just outside of Montgomery, AL. They blog at www.theletteredcottage.net and keep my head thinking about cottage-y things. It's a sweet spot on the www to go to for home design help and inspiration. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">
The most recent post happens to be a touching story about what it means to love your neighbor. I hope you'll take a minute and click on over to <span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; font-size: 15px; line-height: 19px; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://theletteredcottage.net/more-than-our-casserole/">http://theletteredcottage.net/more-than-our-casserole/</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); font-size: 15px; line-height: 19px; white-space: nowrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); font-size: 15px; line-height: 19px; white-space: nowrap;"><br /></span></div>
Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-66372900204261626702012-10-28T21:40:00.002-06:002012-10-28T21:40:40.889-06:0031 Days of Life: Day 28It's amazing that we've been able to post at least something everyday of this blog series so far. Phew! I keep thinking that I'm just not going to make it through to the end. Ha! That's saying something if you know how much of a talker that I am!! :-) It's sure been a pleasure to have you reading. October 31 will be my last certified daily post. If you'd like to keep up with our happenings, I encourage you to subscribe via email or your favorite feed reader if you haven't already.<br />
<br />
Now, life... Today we had a wonderful time worshiping with our church family. We enjoyed a nice lunch and then hurried back to the church for Jingle Jam dance practice and a business meeting. Can I just tell you that leading children in a dance/praise rehearsal is a lot like aerobics?! It's going to be a fun season of getting to help lead this team, and maybe I'll even burn enough calories to justify all the Christmas eating! ;-) Seriously, it's going to be a fantastic time of year!Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-78919581295119016102012-10-27T21:51:00.003-06:002012-10-27T21:51:49.751-06:0031 Days of Life: Day 27Today our church held A Day at the Park. It was a great day to show our community the love of Jesus. The girls had a blast.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz1AvpE36gENf17csiFEoCNXr_cF9B8IsJUk-IC-CsNBk2xUsoH39MmXtb6CrkT8zZliuwmk6JxDGXRYwxpjV4giLJi2AUpbeQ-qbFdVXNSOYKMKnLspvZY7-CL3zP0pXDasox-Tv93RE/s1600/libby.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz1AvpE36gENf17csiFEoCNXr_cF9B8IsJUk-IC-CsNBk2xUsoH39MmXtb6CrkT8zZliuwmk6JxDGXRYwxpjV4giLJi2AUpbeQ-qbFdVXNSOYKMKnLspvZY7-CL3zP0pXDasox-Tv93RE/s320/libby.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2x9-A9uh0y-VdnIlKNdtf6ky87ngIPQg5-6I-MNTqkUH3mzi3Dcpg7nPhL1Bk3fvrcSXpB88Pc6Y1vJFmQxA1ddQ1ILtN1Ph09ASy2cAcJ0K4pIUrt1W8VWsWX0_Y-HHZmiUUTdzZ-Ck/s1600/clara.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2x9-A9uh0y-VdnIlKNdtf6ky87ngIPQg5-6I-MNTqkUH3mzi3Dcpg7nPhL1Bk3fvrcSXpB88Pc6Y1vJFmQxA1ddQ1ILtN1Ph09ASy2cAcJ0K4pIUrt1W8VWsWX0_Y-HHZmiUUTdzZ-Ck/s320/clara.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-73218671914293129582012-10-26T22:07:00.000-06:002012-10-26T22:07:21.624-06:0031 Days of Life: Day 26She is precious. She is beautiful. She is loving and kind. She has given up a little bit. She is one. While I shouldn't share her real name here, will you please pray for our new friend? We have the honor of helping her with homework each week at the Boys and Girls Club. It is overwhelming that she is in the 4th grade and is unable to read or do basic math. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After we've both spent different afternoons helping her, Brandon thinks she has given up. Maybe she's embarrassed to stand up for herself and seek the help she needs at school. Maybe she doesn't have a mom who will fight for her in the education system if the school staff is unable to help. We really don't know. It would be much easier to find someone or something to blame for her situation. It doesn't seem fair, does it? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm so thankful we know that reading and math are not the hope of the world but that Jesus is. Pray that she knows the Hope of the World and that understanding will come with her school work. We truly thank you for praying this way.</div>
Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-51413906839182212862012-10-25T22:50:00.001-06:002012-10-25T22:50:56.728-06:0031 Days of Life: Day 25Somedays... you just need Madea. ;-) Halleluyur!<br />
<br />
<script src="http://www.godtube.com/embed/source/klw67lnx.js?w=400&h=255&ap=false&sl=true&title=true" type="text/javascript"></script><a href="http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=KLW67LNX">Madea Preaches The Bible</a> from <a href="http://www.godtube.com/coke987123">coke987123</a> on <a href="http://www.godtube.com/">GodTube</a>.Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-51329437690458949772012-10-24T23:30:00.000-06:002012-10-24T23:30:27.086-06:0031 Days of Life: Day 24I can remember being 16 and wanting my own car sooooo badly! I looked at car ads anywhere I could find them. I practically new every make and model that was popular to our area. I begged my dad and mom to look at this one or that one. I was probably quite obnoxious about the whole thing, actually.<br />
<br />
Then, my dad did something brilliant. He took me into a body shop and let me see first hand how cars that have been salvaged can be put back together to look like new. He had been explaining to me for weeks about the dangers of being lured by something that seemed like a good deal - a great deal! I just couldn't get it into my thick head. I determined that no one would be selling such a thing like my dad was concerned about. Now, in the middle of this salvage body shop, I began to understand. I could see for the first time why my dad didn't want me to settle for something that was less than ideal...something that could cause me great trouble in the future.<br />
<br />
Well, here I am, several years later and just as bull-headed...maybe even more so. Today, while getting my hopes over something, God brought people into the situation that helped me see the reality of what was in front of me. It was like being in that body shop all over again. While there was some disappointment over not having things MY way, I am so thankful that God is protected me from myself. I am my own worst enemy.<br />
<br />
Again, I'm so thankful that Jesus rescued me unto Himself and that he is there to keep rescuing me from myself. Oh, and by the way... I did end up getting a great (used) first car! It was something that came our way as we least expected it. I worked hard to pay off the easily affordable payments. Then, after the car had met my needs, I was able to gift it to someone I loved. Though that car is now in car heaven, it lived 15 years and served me and its next owner quite faithfully. :-)Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-47257708602578236682012-10-23T21:06:00.001-06:002012-10-23T21:06:12.947-06:0031 Days of Life: Day 23Kristen told me I had to write 5 things that you likely do not know about me. Depending on when you knew me and how much attention you paid, you will already know some of these. And, if you are in my family you should know this stuff already, in which case you are exempt from being surprised.<br />
<br />
5 Things You didn't know about Brandon and probably never cared to know<br />
<br />
1. While in college and for my first year of Seminary, I worked in daycare. I ran a room of 12 12-18 month olds by myself for several hours a day. I look back on that time and think the director was crazy. I wouldn't hire me to do that job again. It was fun and though it is prideful, I don't mind saying I was good at it.<br />
<br />
2. I received a Varsity Letter in Tennis all fours years of High school and was ranked #1 in my school for 3 of those years. This doesn't mean I was good at tennis, the rest of the school was that bad.<br />
<br />
3. I used to raise chickens as a hobby. I had several different breeds in an enclosure my dad built. My Mom called it the "Chicken Mansion." I was into it a bit. I read a book called "The Chicken Health Handbook" and had posters of different breeds of show chickens on my bedroom walls. (that sounds creepy now that I say it).<br />
<br />
4. In college, I took one semester of piano and one of guitar. I had read on Kristen's "list" that she wanted to marry someone who was musical. I tried.<br />
<br />
5. I minored in Spanish in college. I wrote a 5 page paper in Spanish about Don Quixote which I had read. In Spanish. Now, I barely can order a Nachos bel Grande at Taco Bell.<br />
<br />
<br />
Here are 5 more things that are more interesting, but you likely already knew, or will not be surprised to hear.<br />
<br />
1. If outside, my sneezes can be heard up to a mile away. If inside, well let's just say it ain't pretty.<br />
<br />
2. At a Mexican restaurant in Atlanta, I ate their 17" burrito to earn a free t-shirt. According to the server, it was the fastest time ever. I then had my complimentary dessert and helped Kristen finish her meal.<br />
<br />
3. I like to cook. Mostly it flows for a greater desire to eat. I like eating, it's my favorite.<br />
<br />
4. I do not "act" The few times in life I have been in productions, I have to play someone who is like me. Otherwise it is terrible. Which is also why I do not wear costumes or "dress-up" ever. Call me a fun-sucker all you want, but I do not do it (except for Christmas this year)<br />
<br />
Now for the more serious one to make all the girls say "awww" and think I am a great husband (but that is not why I am writing this)<br />
<br />
5. I am absolutely in love with my wife. Even when she is in a mood (which absolutely rarely happens) I sometimes just laugh and tell her I love how she gets upset. I love how she is happy. I love how she cares for others (since I really don't do that so well). I love the mother she is to our girls. I love that we are content to listen to each other breathe on the phone even after 11 years of marriage.<br />
<br />
<br />
There you go. Hope it wasn't awkward for you.<br />
<br />
My professors always said I was too wordy when I wrote, I see what they meant, but I like talking about me. Me is very interesting, don't you think?<br />
<br />
After all, you read this much.<br />
<br />
<br />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-33730724443426519872012-10-22T22:22:00.000-06:002012-10-22T22:22:28.513-06:0031 Days of Life: Day 22I got this idea from a friend's blog. I hope that Brandon will do one, too. I'm sure his will be way better. :-)<br />
<br />
5 things you might not know about me...<br />
<br />
1. I won the smile contest for my elementary school when I was in the 3rd grade. I even got to compete in the city wide competition. I remember having to go from class to class, smiling for the other kids to judge and vote on the best smile. I'm pretty sure that my smile was corrupted sometime during the whole thing. I distinctly remember beginning to feel my teeth with my top lip. It was getting rolled under in a sort of way. Go ahead. Try that out in the mirror.<br />
<br />
2. I love bologna and grape jelly sandwiches on white bread. Although I don't eat them much anymore, they were a childhood favorite! One of my best friend's mom invented them for me while playing at her house because I was such a picky eater. Seriously, such a wonderful creation. I would eat them now, but I'm not sure I would be socially accepted. I should punt socially accepted. ;-)<br />
<br />
3. I have spent the night on a hiking trail in the Andes mountains of Merida, Venezuela. Our missions team was hiking what was supposed to be a 'three hour' hike. Due to being considerably out of shape for that task and the extreme altitude, a few of us lagged way behind. After nightfall, there was really nothing we could do but stop and sleep where we were. We had 2 sleeping bags for 4 people on a tiny path on the side of a mountain. Did I mention it was REALLY cold?!<br />
<br />
4. I love old, rugged, out of shape, in need of repair, peely painted, dinged up wooden furniture, houses, barns, vintage junk, etc. I could and do waste serious amounts of time looking at and wondering about the history behind said items, how they could be fixed up and what I would do with them. I like to think about how this is like people and that God longs to do the same and rescue every person.<br />
<br />
5. I became a Christian as a child during Vacation Bible School at Dauphin Way Baptist Church in Mobile, AL. It was the summer after 2nd grade. That church has long since relocated to a different campus, and I have long since moved down the road, too. I've lived in many different cities and my faith has been challenged in many ways over these years. But, I've never forgotten that sweet urgency that called me from those golden upholstered pews that summer. My Savior, my rescuer...forever.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-60048057265674172352012-10-21T22:55:00.000-06:002012-10-21T22:55:26.015-06:0031 Days of Life: Day 21Today was Friend Day at church. Friend Day is a certain Sunday on which you are encouraged to bring a friend with you. (I always sort of want to laugh about a designated day to bring a friend to church. It seems silly since any day is a great day to bring a friend to church...unless the topic is tithing, right? ;-) Just kidding.) We enjoyed worshiping together and ate lunch at church afterward. While the adults chatted and visited, the children played on the jolly jump bouncy houses and ate several more cookies, I think. It was a really nice day to be together as a church - family & friends.<br />
<br />
As I was busy talking and watching all the people, I realized how thankful I am to have a church family to call home. It means so much to me to be part of this body of people, and I am overwhelmed at God's goodness in calling us to serve alongside these precious ones. There is no church that is perfect, and ours is far from it. But, there is a genuineness of love for the Lord here. There is a sense of true caring. Most importantly, there is a body of people with a growing sense of what it means to take Jesus into the world. This I love. This I thank God for.<br />
<br />
<br />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899598911048697004.post-39453954723070277912012-10-20T20:40:00.001-06:002012-10-20T20:40:43.470-06:0031 Days of Life: Day 20<h2>
</h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaKgTWQ4gyoOqGwiDauX6D68fo6H591k7k1UseWDncO0AMM22H-S1Unntf3bBq3tq9qGANxj2q-ZNUugpADjXE7Y4lclF6FeEN5U7LhkYUESXSIH5-2N0uSgA3krJSUzTY_EY6h6XkNig/s1600/photo3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaKgTWQ4gyoOqGwiDauX6D68fo6H591k7k1UseWDncO0AMM22H-S1Unntf3bBq3tq9qGANxj2q-ZNUugpADjXE7Y4lclF6FeEN5U7LhkYUESXSIH5-2N0uSgA3krJSUzTY_EY6h6XkNig/s320/photo3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<h2>
<br /></h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGLfKSBPUC8xkCnJdSAlFYxNirFZhvJLBESLlQGMRt_Jl91X650pA4Dqmlz_eBxoAD7CVoTcAWuBIdDahp4wJK0MKXAUlB8DE3b71UJpLGHF9wVLTQnmEOsULe2grTptDzkTosZqqdVtQ/s1600/photo1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGLfKSBPUC8xkCnJdSAlFYxNirFZhvJLBESLlQGMRt_Jl91X650pA4Dqmlz_eBxoAD7CVoTcAWuBIdDahp4wJK0MKXAUlB8DE3b71UJpLGHF9wVLTQnmEOsULe2grTptDzkTosZqqdVtQ/s320/photo1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk4yjskcYzKlcNL0qnTg88CA2f51veVWnGPa4kH0TNcaS7AzRhHsJMAOnoZb-cNUtiubQj3GvPjh69Fk4Q-FMouaQSBfKE9xA1veiIwjckLpoNG4jrOQxdKvoVR0aTF-JvckEOmP2Pay0/s1600/photo2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk4yjskcYzKlcNL0qnTg88CA2f51veVWnGPa4kH0TNcaS7AzRhHsJMAOnoZb-cNUtiubQj3GvPjh69Fk4Q-FMouaQSBfKE9xA1veiIwjckLpoNG4jrOQxdKvoVR0aTF-JvckEOmP2Pay0/s320/photo2.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Such fun at our local wildlife preserve! So blessed to have a good family day. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06715651511061724408noreply@blogger.com0