letters from brooklyn

Little Sis is a Mom!

2012-02-10T14:09:00.001-05:00

So once upon a time -- I had a little sister -- and then she passed me up in life and had a baby! Making me an aunt. A happy happy aunt. I have pics of the little fellow, but I never posted pics of her baby belly! She was adorable! I hope hope hope that my pregnancy and delivery are as amazing as hers! Seriously. Please be genetic.

Becca and Steve [November Wedding]

2012-02-09T20:01:00.001-05:00

I had the opportunity to photograph a dear dear friend's wedding in the middle of fall. It was beautiful. The location set this amazing fall atmosphere -- and topped with Becca and Steve's zest for life, and love... I couldn't have asked for a better day! Becca was drop dead gorgeous, and Steve was super giddy with excitement to see his bride walk down the aisle for the first time!

Their story is one of God's utmost love for those who follow Him. When I think of them and their lives I am reminded of God's realness in our lives and how He loves to give us the desires of our hearts... even when we are least expecting it. Congrats Becca and Steve. D and I look forward to many dates with you awesome people!

Folks, please don't take my pictures and use them as your own. That's just down-right mean.

Colorado Love

2011-12-28T13:27:00.000-05:00

We can never get enough of this view.

{taken from the spot D proposed, just over 4 years ago}

Lessons Learned: Europe Edition by B,I, and E.

2011-10-18T12:36:00.001-04:00

1. Don't lose your chewing gum. Chewing gum is very important.
2. Every city transportation system is different. Sometimes you keep your tickets to exit, sometimes you don't have to activate it more than once. If you don't know the system you may get stuck in the station (forcing yourself to jump turnstiles) or arrested.
3. German is a cool language... but it didn't really make for good music. Germans singing Irish music is a little rough, too. German architecture makes up for it though.
4. European toilets: little button for little things, big button for big things.
5. European trains run on their own time... regardless.
6. Everything is normal on a European train.
7. Homeless men hangout at CDG airport, get drunk, sing, and get in fights at night.
8. One can in fact stay overnight at CDG for free.
9. Staying 17 hours in an airport isn't the best way to spend a day.
10. Have a back-up plan to your back-up plan.
11. Booking flights on an airline you know actually has customer service is a good idea.
12. The Vatican has a dress code. This may mean you cross dress.

13. Pack snacks. Snacks will SAVE you!!

14. Europe is expensive - very expensive. Just suck it up and spend the money since you're already there. :) This is also the reason that you should pack tons and tons of snacks.

15. Traveling on countless planes and trains will make your ankles swell to the size of grapefruits. Just roll with it.

16. Smile really big when you don't speak the language and say thank you over and over again. Hopefully, the locals will find that charming instead of obnoxious.

17. When the people in the line in front of you at the airline counter are angry, grouchy, negative, rude, obnoxious, and totally debbie downers, ignore them completely. Smile at the poor guy who has had to put up with their ranting and be nice.

18. Don't let the Europeans cut in front of you in any line, regardless. Box out and block them - this goes for bathrooms, attractions, gelato, and airline counters. Stand your ground, yo.

19. People are just people, no matter where they live. They all have the same needs and feelings even in different countries. I think that is pretty awesome.
20. Be prepared to encounter God's creation, the nude form, pretty much everywhere... street corners to museum walls. :S
21. Do not force a visit to both the Louvre and the d'Orsay back to back... just go to the d'Orsay :).
22. The Mona Lisa is a postage stamp... make a decision early on what is important to you: a blurry, up-close picture of it while suffering elbow jabs and body shoves or standing back to watch with pure amusement how immature people of every culture can act in front of a 500 year old woman.
23. Always, always have a backup plan.
24. In Europe, the customer is not always right. In fact, when customers are irritating and whinny, customer service representatives stop responding.
25. Rent bicycles!
26. If you are offered whiskey at the Queen's birthday party, it is a necessary rite of passage to take a least a sip ;).
27. In the moment it is overwhelming and three weeks feels like an incredibly long time, but looking back it is hard to believe it happened, it was just a flash in time.

Falling Behind. Again.

2011-10-17T11:02:00.003-04:00

Hi!!

Man life has been busy since the whirlwind trip that was Europe. D and I are officially settled in our small home in Cincinnati, and we are adjusting to life. D is starting his Masters work and I'm student teaching an hour away... so life still catches us by surprise once in a while. We are busy, to say the very least. As in - I'm lucky if I remember to shower everyday, please give me more that 5 hours of sleep, I need to be done with school, when will my husband go to bed -- kind of busy. I feel like life presses on you so hard sometimes and it takes everything inside, every fiber of strength, to resist being crushed.

I do have a few pictures I'd love to share with you. Not of the house... those will come eventually. But of a wedding I did this summer. My dear dear friend Brooke got hitched to this Air Force Doctor to-be, and their wedding was absolutely beautiful. It was stylish, classy, and really fun. They both have this joy for life and love -- it was truly unique. So enjoy a few pictures of B&C.

Love,
B

Kids say the darnest things...

2011-10-07T12:02:00.003-04:00

(PAUSE) I have some good good things ahead for this lovely little blog that you think I've abandoned. I haven't left this little guy, and I have things like lessons, weddings, seniors, families, and school to share with you.

But until then, I just wanted to share with you two quotes from my new 6th grade students. They make me laugh.

" That teacher just said that I was a good kid! Clearly I'm not in any of her classes."

Students talking about protesting because they want to use cell phones in class...
"What about we do a violent protest... you know... with torches and toilet paper and stuff."

Formally inducted into the "Horror Travel Stories" club.

2011-07-01T09:09:00.001-04:00

Sometimes when you think nothing else can go wrong, you soon realize it can.
This is an account of our journey home starting Saturday June 25th.
Saturday:
We woke up in Rome, pack up our bags, cleaned a little, and checked out of our adorable little apartment in Roma. Looking back the following decision may have been stupid... but we gave all of our bags (except our passport and train passes) to the lady we were renting the apartment from to keep in her car while we roamed around Rome for the day before our train left that night at 8.
**Side note** European trains don't run on time. At least the overnight ones don't. So we were prepared for delay. Which we encountered.
Spending the night in the train was alright (better than our journey there, at least). We were really sad to miss lunch with our friend W because of our lateness. We headed straight to Charles De Gaulle airport (because we are poor college students who became more poor in Europe) to spend the night. Please note that we arrived there at 2pm on Sunday and camped out waiting for our plane that left Monday at 8am.
It was about 10-hours (mid-night) the Irene came back from a bathroom walk and told us that our flight through Icelandic Air was cancelled. Since this news was directly after an exchange of hilarious stories and embarrassing moments... we didn't believe her. It took about ten minutes for everything to set into my mind, but little did I know that was just the beginning.
Around 2 am D, E, and I walked around the concourse looking for Icelandic Air just to see what time an attendant would be there. Oddly enough, we couldn't find where they were located. We asked a man and we couldn't understand him, so we decided to just get as much sleep as we could, wake up early, and begin figuring everything out. It was 4am that the lights came on in the airport and we couldn't sleep any longer. After asking several people, we found out that we had to go to this makeshift place where we could rebook our tickets. Surely, we thought, there was just not many people booked on the early flight, so they would just stick us on the later flight.
When we got to the line that labeled our desk on printer paper there were others there camped out on seats already in line. It took only five minutes to listening to what they had to say to be completely overwhelmed, stressing out, and on the brink of tears. They said they've been stuck in Paris for two days because Icelandic Air is currently undergoing a strike. Most flights have been cancelled, and the company has contracted one person in CDG to rebook every single person. The computer was old, no one would answer questions, and they were less than sympathetic. So, we waited. We ere warned to be aggressive as people began to wander to the counter and take our spots.
At one point, Irene was leading the pack and a French couple walked up next to us and stood there. We were only about 2 people away from being at the front of the line... and the line itself extended quite far behind us at this point. At first, Irene scooted up. And then they came close to us (obviously with the intentions of cutting us). Irene then leaned over and put her arm on the desk counter (making it even more obvious that we weren't letting them in). As they proceeded to get close she just hopped up and sat on the desk counter. That-a-girl. The French lady asked E a question about the line, and with no sleep and a slightly stressed out E just stared blankly at the lady and pointed to the back of the line. It pretty much made my day.
We a little relieved when we got tickets (after about 2 hours of waiting) through Air France. We were headed to Montreal that afternoon. Hesitant about checking our bags, we waited in a terribly long line to check in and get our tickets, only to find out at border/customs that we had to check our bags (except Irene slipped in with hers... sneaky little girl). E and I manned Daniel with our carry-on, and waited 40 more minutes to check our bag. We met up, and wait another hour to get through customs. Oh yea, I forgot to mention that when we checked in to get our tickets, they put Irene on a wait list for our flight. With a little layover in Montreal to get to JFK, we couldn't afford for her to be put on another flight. Daniel was going to offer his seat, and then we decided that if he was going to offer his seat, I may as well give mine up as well (we married kids gotta stick together).
Luckily, after standing in hours of more lines, Irene got on. Praise the Lord. Home free, right? No more problems!
Except that we missed our connection flight in Montreal because we were delayed in Paris (CDG strike). Awesome. I know. Still operating on 2 hours of sleep and a millions pounds of stress, we were re-ticketed to LaGuardia. While we were thankful to be headed to the U.S., E and Irene were not going to be able to make their connecting flight from JFK (where we were suppose to initially arrive) to Denver. Not to mention that their flights from JFK to Denver were book at different times, so neither Air France nor Air Canada could help them. As we when through border control at Canada, got our bags, checked back into Air Canada, and went through U.S. customs, we were running for our plane to the U.S (at first the lady said that Irene and E could not check in because they were too late, and so Daniel and I went on, but the lady was on crack and got them on the same flight anyways).
So there we were in New York LaGuardia when we should have been at JFK 8 hours earlier. Still with only about 3 hours of sleep under us, tired, hungry, stressed, and E and Irene without a plane to Denver. Through they talked with Jet Blue reps, it became clear that they would have to travel to JFK and wait in more lines before figuring something out. Daniel and grabbed a taxi and made a crazy journey to Queens where we would sleep and get up for our morning flight to Indianapolis.
Periodic texts from Irene and E told us that they were waiting in ridiculously long lines, fighting with people getting to Puerto Rico, and just trying to make it through the day without collapsing. It wasn't until around 11pm that we got news that they were able to get on a flight at 4pm the next day arriving in Denver (with a layover) late late that night. Poor girls. We thought they were just cuddled up in the airport or another sleepless night. In the morning we found that they decided to get a hotel for the night so that they could get some sleep.
As I write this we are about to land in Indianapolis. we have sad hearts knowing our dear friends are still waiting for their flight to Denver. We are, however, thankful that everyone is getting home. We didn't have to stay another night in Paris, we have all of our luggage, we were never pick pocketed (that we know of...), and we still all look back with fondness of our adventure in Europe.
Stay tuned as more stories and pictures come trickling in about our trip through Europe. E is going to write about the Louvre, and d'Orsay and D is going to be writing about the BMW Museum. I plan on posting a few more things from Rome and an overall "Lessons Learned" blurb from all of us.
Thanks to our family and friends (and friends who are family) who have supported us through the planning process and transition period. In the midst of traveling the world we missed home dearly because of you.

Munich!

2011-06-21T16:26:00.003-04:00

D and I arrived in Munchen from Brussels by train. we have decided that train is by far our favorite way to travel. It's easy, relaxing, and you get to see some beautiful scenery. And, for those who are rich and thirsty, they even have a bar car where you can chug booze until your heart is content. I love Europe.
We made it to the place we were staying with no problems at all. The city wide transportation system was the easiest we've found so far (although we learned by our host that we could have been in a world of trouble because we didn't activate our tickets properly that first ride to her place). And that first night we decided to hit up the most well-known beer garden in all the world: Hofbrauhaus. All the waiters and waitresses were dressed in traditional German clothing and musicians played traditional German music. Seating was seat yourself family style... meaning you normally sat next to strangers on a long bench. I guess after a few beers you don't really care who you sit by. Daniel ordered schweinshaxe (grilled beef knuckle... I don't think it is actually knuckle, unless pigs have huge knuckles) with a liter of the original brew, and I or the HB sausage platter with saurkraut, pretzels, and a half-liter of a Radler (half original beer and half lemonade... perfect girl beer). The beer house was an awesome experience, and we were both really glad that we spent our dinner there. After dinner we walked home. After we told our host what we did that night and that we walked home, she looked at us with a surprised looked and exclaimed, "Are you guys really American?!?!"

The next day we spent exploring the BMW museum, dodging the rain, napping for 2.5 hours, and then finding the only restaurant open after 8pm (that wasn't sit-in)... Subway. I'm going to let Daniel enlighten you about the BMW Museum in the coming days. We both had a great time, and for different reasons.

On Sunday we decided to take a short train and bus ride to the Dachau Concentration Camp. Unprepared for what we were going to see and learn, we left the site with a completely different understanding of WWII. The unjust treatment of innocent people was the hardest part for me to understand. How could anyone purposefully torture, humiliate, and kill innocent people on a day to day basis for years? Daniel and I left the camp in awe and wonder. Why didn't God intervene? The pictures, videos, and places we saw are forever engrained in our heads. Though we left with heavy hearts, we still strong encourage anyone to go if you have the opportunity. It brought a new, very real, aspect to the treatment of "others" during WWII.

Sunday night we decided to get off the train at a random stop downtown and walk until we found dinner. One thing we have found that we love about Munchen is the fact that there are always festivals, good food, beer, and markets. It took about 50m of walking until we found a huge festival with multiple musicians set up along the street and awesome food to be had. That night we experienced schnitzensimmel (flattened pork, breaded, and grilled/fried on a wonderful bun) from two places. The first one was horrible and cold... but once I saw a man carrying one from another place that was hot and crispy... I had to try it again. We also got another radler from the beer garden. We continued walking around. Daniel got some roasted cashews from a man that made fun of my accent, and we stopped to listen to an Irish rock band perform before taking the train home.

Munich was an amazing city. Daniel and I both agreed that of all the places we've had the pleasure to visit, that Munich felt most like "home". We loved the culture, the people, the food, the music, and the city vibe. We really hope that we can return to Germany again in the future.

Europe Trip Pt 1 (a poem by Irene)

2011-06-15T16:43:00.004-04:00

Brooklyn giggles at D's fun
His biking antics are no where near done
In Brussels we ate tons of Frits
Irene was very much a ditz
Em bought a billion choco eggs
We all think she has really nice legs
In Paris we saw tons of art
For dessert we had a brown sugar pop-tart
Once we ate nothing but bread and cheese
We think the Heredia's are the best bee's knees.

Brugge!

2011-06-14T17:13:00.000-04:00

We spent a day in the lovely town of Brugge. A quaint little tourist town, it was a lot like that Market Square in Brussels, but just smaller. Daniel decided that they had the best Frits. And the best frits is a very important and prestigious award. Belgiumites take their food seriously.
ALSO, Daniel got a HAIR CUT!! It was really about time, and not many people can say that they got their hairs cut by a Lebanese in Brugge, Belgium. He was the best hair cutter... ever. Edward Scissorhands personified. The whole time the girls just laughed and laughed as hair was falling to the ground and the hair man cut away. Good news is that Daniel's hair looks great!
The first part of the day we walked around Brugge and took in the sights by foot. The Gothic architecture is amazing, and the old cobble stones add to the old-time feel. After we ate lunch in the main square below the famous bell tower (and Daniel got his hair cut), we rented bikes and saw the rest of Brugge by bike. We saw 4 windmills, and lots of cute alley ways with colorful homes! We all agreed that biking Brugge is the best way to see the little town, and we all had so much fun doing something besides walking!
The train ride back to Brussels was filled with "would you rathers", funny questions, and great fellowship. I feel so blessed to be able to travel the world with some of the best people on this planet. Stay tuned for more pictures!

....True Story....

2011-06-12T17:33:00.002-04:00

For a true story of our adventure... click HERE!

Market Day!

2011-06-12T10:06:00.003-04:00

Head to Irene's blog for an awesome account of our market day in Brussels!

So One Time...

2011-06-11T03:04:00.004-04:00

So one time I got shoved from room to room in the Chatau de Versailles. True story. Louis XIV knew how to do bling. Everything from the entrance gates, hallways, bedrooms, and kitchens...nothing was dull. As the King of Bling, he also housed many partners, diplomats, and important visitors. It was so awesome to walk through various rooms and a chapel and just look at all the detailed decorations. Elaborate paintings filled the cielings, gold plated crown moldings, deep colors on the walls, and marble floors were plenty. I've never been in a more beautiful building. And apparently no one else had either... and they were extremely eager to get through each room. At one point, as hundreds of people were filing into another room, a lady began pushing me from behind and using me as something similar to a riot shield. I think people lose their manners in large crowds. We've all experienced being shoved into one place or another so that some other tourist can have our spot. In the words of Stephanie Tanner, "How rude."

The Hall of Mirrors was one of the most spectacular rooms that I've ever been in. As you can see crystal chandeliers line the whole room, magnificent paintings scale the roof, and mirrors line the walls.

So one time I went to the Eiffel Tower after visiting Versailles. Upon seeing the monument, D was impressed with the "structurally efficient design." It was bigger, and more beautiful than I could have ever imagined. I kept having to remind myself that I was actually there and NOT just seeing a replication somewhere in the US. It acutally exists. So strange. To save some cash money, we (actually they) decided we were going to hike up to the second viewing landing. That wasn't my idea of a good time... but I have to admit it was a good one! E didn't kick our butts by running up because she's is scared of heights... so she ended up going at a pace that I could hang with. as we began to rise over the city, the view became more and more spectacular. Paris is beautiful. The city is so old. Every building had character and wonderful details.
WWIII at the Woman's bathroom on the second landing almost broke out. It was pretty intense. There were Spanish ladies in front of use, Indian ladies behind us, and one French lady bathroom cleaner involved. At the tour they don't let many people into the bathroom at one time, so you have to wait in a line outside of a glass door. Well... a French lady was making the Spanish ladies mad because they had been waiting in line for at least 20 minutes to use the WC. And the French lady wouldn't let them in. Just as the French lady opened the door, an English lady squirmed her way though the long line with her daughter (all freightened and such) as her excuse and proclaimed " Excuuuuse me, my daughter... it's an emergency, she just can't wait any longer. AN EMERGENCY!" So, the Spanish ladies didn't get in after all! We all just kind of looked at one another, and half heartedly joke about our bathroom situation being an "emergency"... but it was about 10 minutes when a shade came down the bathroom window explaining in French that the lady was cleaning the bathrooms. Really?!?! While there are many many many people in line? When the Spanish ladies were already upset? And thats when everyone turned on the French lady.The Spanish ladies began banging on the glass door, the Indian ladies began laughing and yelling, and the English lady never came out of the bathroom... We left the line and decided to take the elevator to the top.
What. A. View.

Jet lag.

2011-06-07T11:16:00.002-04:00

Hi!!!

We've made it to the City of Love, just in time for the 3rd anniversary of D and I!! All four of us are a little (more like a lot) tired, but that didn't really spot us from exploring our little side of Paris.

Our flight was really interesting. Thankfully Rene brought 5 bags of grapes, 6 bags of goldfish, and assorted other snacks along... otherwise we would have probably died. We all took sleeping pills, but found that they only made it painful not to be asleep and not necessarily helpful in the sleeping process. Interesting.

After arriving in Paris at 6am and heading through the non-existent customs, we made our way through the subway system and the twisty roads of Montmartre, and finally discovered our adorable little flat that we've rented for the next few days. It's perfect for us! Two bedrooms, one bathroom, full kitchen, living, and dining room. Perfect.

Sacre Coeur. We walked to it today. It was a loooong uphill hike. And Daniel and I are still uber sore from waltzing through NYC. But we made it, and it was worth the hike! We have never been to a building so old (constructed in the 1600's) and beautiful. It looks over the whole city, which gives it an added bonus. And it's free! While there we ate really good crepes, and looked at some local art! D bought me a beautiful little piece for our anniversary. I'm the luckiest.

I tried to think of a hilarious quote of the day, but after about zero hours of sleep... everything seems hilarious and my decision making skills have gone out the window.

Tomorrow we hit up Versailles and the Eiffel Tower.

Pictures to come tomorrow...

Relief in the midst of crowds.

2011-06-04T22:19:00.009-04:00

So, it has been decided that Midtown is nuts during the summertime. I don't remember so many people when I was living there! I mean... you pretty much can't wait without running into someone who randomly decided to stop in their tracks and look up. I guess I can't blame them. The Concrete Jungle is awesome on the streets, but the skyscrapers hanging above you are nothing less than impressive.

Today we traveled Midtown by foot. Starting in northern Times Square, zigzagging our way through festivals, famous expensive music stores, stopping in awesome shops, eating gigantic food, touring the NYC library, then ending in Grand Central Station (with Magnolia Cupcakes). It was a lot of fun, and we really enjoyed the tourist hotspots, but we are REALLY looking forward to a relaxing day in Central park tomorrow.

48th Street near Times Square was a highlight for D. He spent some time looking through musical instruments that he would never have permission to buy, and he even tried a different type of guitar that he already owns (I know I screwed that wording up, D... sorry:). An interesting part that I found amazing was a picture that was posted in one of the stores (I know, it wasn't one of the amazing guitars). It was of the owner and his wife in front of the twin towers... and it was dated 9/10/01. That's crazy! How quickly things change.

We hit up the M&M store in Times Square. I LOVED IT!!!! We both did, really. Not a color of M&M was missed, and you could create your own bag full of them... in whatever color you wanted. So cool. Though crowded, that store was a highlight for sure!

We ate at Stage Deli in Times Square. Biggest sandwich and cheesecake ever... New Yorkers know how to do food. It's a fact. Take a look!

We ended the day with spending time with another B&D. They are the best. They JUST got married in April of 2011, so it was so wonderful hearing about the wedding, honeymoon, and life as a married couple in NYC. So cute and in love, I couldn't have picked a better way to end the day. I feel so blessed to have friends that I can still connect with even after we haven't seen one another in a long time. We ate at a fancy greek place on the west side called Kefi. It was really spectacular, and kind of exotic (for us country folk, at least!). We swung on swings in Central Park, reminisced days of old, and ate ice cream together. It was perfect, and I'm so excited for them to come see Cincinnati sometime in the not too distant future! Thanks D&B for a wonderful night and great eating choice. We love you guys.

Favorite quote of the day: "You know how there are big groups of people standing on both sides of the crosswalk waiting to cross.... and everyone meets in the middle... well, I like that you can let a huge one rip right there and no one would know." -D

We realized today that it would have been WAY MORE cost effective for us to have each purchased a 7 day unlimited Metro Card. Note to self... don't make that mistake again.

Tomorrow is a lazy Sunday in the City, I&E come, we prepare and pack for.... EUROPE! Woot.

Ciao!

Prayer Requests:
-I&E arrive safely tomorrow with not complications
- D's persistent cold

No, we didn't grab the bull by the balls.

2011-06-04T09:28:00.012-04:00

Yesterday was another great day in the city. We felt more like tourists yesterday (much to my dismay) since we hit up more touristy things. I wanted to make sure Daniel didn't just come to NYC and hang out at neat local places, but that he got to see all the iconic scenes that make NYC popular.

Our first stop was Ground Zero. I was pretty guarded when we arrived because when I went there 5 years ago, St. Paul's Chapel was a really emotional memorial for 9/11. I was surprised to see that much of the memorial material was gone, and only few stations were set up for memorial. I had mixed feelings about this because before the story was moving, brought people to tears, and made the whole day of 9/11 so much more real. Real people. Real situations. Real heroes. But now, it shows the way that people around the world united together during and after the tragedy to help in relief efforts. I like that it emphasizes the unitedness of nations. I missed the hard reminder of what took place in our nation, and the strength of our nation to move on. However, an AMAZING organ player was playing in the church while we were there, and that was the highlight of my Ground Zero experience. What a treat to hear classical organ played so perfectly.

Another pleasant surprise at Ground Zero was the half built Freedom Tower! It's awesome. When I was there before they were still in the process of clearing out rubble, and digging for the new tower. Though they had much of Ground Zero fenced off so you couldn't see it, I found a crack and saw so much improvement. They are building a fountain memorial/park and the new Freedom Tower where the two towers stood before. The Freedom Tower is so neat, and I encourage you to go look at wtcprogress.org see the plans. After a little reflecting, I decided that it was probably for the best that most of the memorial was removed from St. Paul's. The Ground Zero site itself is covered information about the Freedom Tower, and the rebuilding of the Transportation Hub. It really gives a sense of hope and takes the focus from the tragedy to the future. Though what happened there will never be forgotten, it is neat to see that they are picking up the pieces and building an absolutely beautiful building.

From Ground Zero we walked through the World Financial Building, walked along the bay, and then headed over to Trinity Church and Wall Street (which was packed). Just off of the hustle and bustle, we found a cute little pizza place in which we indulged in fine NYC pizza. Daniel experienced first hand the fold-your-pizza-into-a-taco technique, and I think he is sold on the idea. NYC just knows how to do pizza.

The rest of the day consisted of Bowling Green Bull Balls, Street Performers, Walking by the Water, Resting on Pier 17, water and ice cream at McDonalds, Street Performers, More Street Performers, Brooklyn Bridge crowd dodging, shameless self portraits on said bridge, and riding home to our perfect little place in Harlem. Order out Chinese, french bread and brie, strawberries, and good books. We were beat. I don't think we've ever walked so much... but we are so excited to explore more today!! Times Square, Empire State Building, Old Navy (for forgotten flippy-floppies), Grand Central, Central Park.

Prayer Requests:
- Daniel's cold goes away quickly.

Sometimes it is just best to stick with what you know...

2011-06-03T09:49:00.005-04:00

Day 1 of the epic adventure-of-a-lifetime, and I'm already overwhelmed with happiness. I LOVE traveling. I don't know what it is about traveling that I love so much... I just love it. The people, the sights, the newness, the adventure, the mishaps and happenstances... it is all so wonderful.

Yesterday (June 2nd) D and I arrived in NYC. There were a few anxieties about that particular leg of the trip. #1: I haven't navigated the subway system in a long time... let alone with two backing packs, and a camera bag. #2, Daniel has never been to The City, and is a crowd-o-phobic. I didn't know how he would handle the hustle and bustle, the switching trains quickly, and chronic personal space invasion by New Yorkers. Praise be to God that everything went so smoothly yesterday as we found our way to The City.

We had a little hang-up with the Metro Card. I remember first trying to slide my card to get through the turnstile back when I was here for college. Too fast = don't get through. Too slow = nice try. Fast beginning swipe, with a slowed finish = negative. Juuuuust right, the New York way = Permission to enter. I felt bad as I stood there on the other side watching D try over and over to get through. I knew saying too much would be upsetting to him, so I mostly watched. People behind him were frustrated, he was flustered... but once he switched lanes... he did perfect! Way to go! It will take a little getting used to... but I think he is a New Yorker at heart.

After we got settled in to our place in Harlem (which I love, btw), D decided he wanted to see Chinatown. What?!?! The place I purposely avoided while living here?!?! Where crowds are thick, the stinch is horrible, and cheap crap is abundant?!?! Okay. So we did. and it was wonderful. We ate at A-Wah (I have no idea how we ran across this place). We shared fried dumplings, General Tso's Chicken, and Lo Mein Hong Kong Style. It was.... different. As in, sometimes you should just stick with what you know. Tso (which they pronounced the "t") was good... the sauce was out of this world... and the rice was amazing. Hong Kong Lo Mein... not so good. I was hesitant in the beginning to get the dish, but we decided that we HAD to try something different. We walked away deciding that we were happy to try something new, maybe Chinese food isn't something we necessarily want much variety in. And I'm okay with that. I like my noodles sauted, and my meat completely cooked.

We made our way by foot up Manhattan, and stopped at a Chinese bakery to try some Bubble Tea. We asked that young girl her favorite tea favor, and she told us watermelon was the best way to go. She was right! I'm not sure all that goes into bubble tea... you drink, and chew, and suck up slimy gummy somethings all the time. It is frozen, sweet, and fruity. D LOVED it! I was cracking up. Every drink there would be a surprised little "Ah!". Another slimy gummy something popped into his mouth. Best quote of the day: "I bet this is the perfect drink after getting high on pot and you get the munchies." You drink, you chew, and you enjoy.

We walked all the way up to Union Station, grabbed groceries at Trader Joe's, and began the subway journey back home.

Favorite moment of the day: waiting to get the keys to our place in Harlem at a Dunken Donuts. The whole time we were practicing our German and French phrases, and it was SO hilarious. Vous pouvez m'aider? Nothing is pronounced how it is spelled... and we sounded and probably looked, ridiculous. Wir sprechen nicht Deutsch. -- True story.

Today... we don't know what we want to do yet. Maybe Wall Street, Brooklyn Bridge, Freedom Tower, and then some Midtown action...Rockefeller Center...Piano Bar...Grand Central?

Prayer Requests:
- D's cold gets better
- I wouldn't get sick
- We would continue to grow closer and enjoy this time together.

Ciao!

P.S. - D loves NYC. I was worried... but he loves it.

Oh. Hi!

2011-04-13T15:12:00.017-04:00

Why hello, friends. I'm glad I don't have fare-weather blog readers because otherwise I'd be in big trouble. So. You want to know about our lives? Obviously, we are rather busy these days... but I'd love to give you a small update on what we are focusing on these days.

This is Paris, France. And we are going to be there on June 7th (our 3 year anniversary!). Given that we have so much school work and events happening before we go, we haven't been able to get too excited over our trip to Europe. Oh yeah, have I mentioned we are going to EUROPE? We are. And it's my dream come true. As far as D's dream come true... I'm not sure. But, I hope he walks away loving to travel, loving Europe, and feeling refreshed for his coming job. Oh yeah. Have I mentioned my amazing husband got a job? (I haven't blogged in a long time...) We are very excited that D is going to be working at GE Aviation, starting in July. He has worked so hard throughout his schooling, he really earned this awesome job opportunity. So, we will be moving back to Cincy this summer.

Anyways, back to Europe. We have been planning (we as in Irene and me... well Irene is way better at doing rather than dreaming than me) a lot, and trying to figure out the best way to get through Europe on a budget. Our trip includes four counties (not including our layover), five major cities, and a lot of train time.

So... we have a layover in Iceland. Reykjavik, Iceland.

I wish we were there during the day so that we could see the city from the windows... but that's okay.
Góðan daginn Reykjavik!
Please don't make us late for our flight to Paris!!
Photo credit

Next we will fly into Paris (on our 3-year anniversary) and fall in love all over again. At least that's what they tell me. My hope are high. Not that I'm not in love now... nevermind.

Bonjour Paris!
After about 4 days in Paris (falling in love with baked goods, museums, Lewis XVI, etc., we will be taking a train to meet up with our hosts in Brussels: M&A.
Photo Credit

Goeiedag Brussels!
We plan on spending a lot of time here! ...Getting to know M&A, walking around the city, eating, geocaching, visiting NATO, and just living the European life.
Photo Credit

At least one day we plan on taking a train to Brugge and touring the canals.

And then... D and I head to Munich, and Irene and Emily are heading to Zurich. In Munich D and I are planning a trip to the BMW Museum, and a trip to Dachau.

Photo Credit Photo Credit

After a few days there, D and I are taking a day and spending it in the European countryside, via train. Back to Paris we go, only to catch an overnight train to Roma!

We (all 4 of us) plan on spending a week in Rome! Caio Roma!

Photo Credit

So I don't want to spoil all the awesome details... because I will be trying to post throughout the trip. So stay tuned!

In the meantime, D is graduating! His parents are coming! And we have to pack up our house! So busy.

A new season of life is about to begin. What will it hold?

Hi God, remember me? [Random Ramblings]

2010-12-10T11:03:00.003-05:00

Photo Credit

Sometimes, that is my very question.

God? I know you created this world and there are so many people who need your attention more than me. And I know you don't consider me less than others, but, where are you?

Sometimes I feel like I ask, and ask, and ask... and there isn't an answer. The provision never came, or it wasn't what I "needed" or expected. And that's the thing. What I need, and what God knows that I need, are normally completely different things. God promises to provide for me, for us, but he never really told us that we would be over abundantly provided for. I don't blame him. Not having any needs would be nice, but then I would probably forget to call on His name. It's my selfishness.

Last night, I was reminded that God does listen. I was blessed by friends, their generosity, and their attention to God's movement in their lives. What was obedience to one was a blessing to us. God's blessing. God reminding me that He wants me to always bring my needs to Him because he wants to be asked. God may know what I need long before I do, but the process of asking (the humility of it all) is what seems to be the trigger. Hold on to your wigs - I need to know that I "need". That I can't make it on my own, and by my own accord. That realization, and then acting my asking, it's beautiful. And today, I'm thankful that I get to ask. That I get to realize. And that God gets to move. In His perfect way.

A Perfect Fall Day

2010-11-03T20:47:00.004-04:00

Once upon a time, I got opportunity to take pictures for The Greenwoods and the extended family. They were/are a beautiful family.
It was a perfect fall day.
And then, the baby Lily stole the show.
I couldn't stop taking pictures of her.
So. Many. Babies. All. Around.
True story. Somebody stop me.

Welcome to this world little one.

2010-10-26T22:09:00.004-04:00

Baby 'A' finally made her appearance... about a month and a half ago... I know... I stinkith at blogging. But hey, it's my blog :)

I had the privileged of taking pictures just after Abilene Elise was born. And here are a few... just for your enjoyment. Now go. Procreate. I need more babies to photograph.

What to say?

2010-10-13T22:12:00.004-04:00

I haven't blogged in a long long time... and life has flown by... and it would take too long to tell you about my adventures in the High School classroom, my short lived nannying experience, or my plea for a maid. So I figured I'd share some pictures of the most handsomest man in the world. I mean, I haven't talked about him too much, and he is just too good-looking to keep from the world. Sorry ladies, he is taken. You're not responsible for the first look however... :)

Picture of the day

2010-07-29T12:01:00.002-04:00

This is for your pleasure, and mine. I call it. "Chronicles of a Sleepy Cat"

A little this, a little that.

2010-07-27T11:39:00.007-04:00

Here are a few things on my mind:

1. The tip of my middle finger has been numb since I brought groceries in with ONE trip rather than TWO.

2. I give my last speech today. Thank you Lord God Almighty. I hated COMM 101. Do hate, will hate, forever hate, still hate.
3. Reasons for hating my speech class:
i. I hate technology, submitting my speech online, and video recording the event.
ii. Apparently I hate speaking formally in front of friends.
iii. I'm never prepared enough.
iiii (formally known as iv.). I hate inconveniencing people to listen to my speech because I have to have a 4 person audience.
iiiii. Speaking in front of a small group is way more vulnerable than a large group. I find strength in numbers.

4. On to better, happier things.
5. I'm creating a wandering list. This may be difficult because I pledged my life to my husband who is a natural (but un-admitting) homebody. Our worlds have collided, and naturally I lose. But, I'm still creating it, and making sure that there are places he would want to see. Such as: Tokyo. And the Great Wall. And Hong Kong (I want to be like John Stossel and start a frisbee business in Hong Kong because you can). And I want visit all 7 continents. This one may get a little hairy as far as getting the hubs to acquiesce, but I'll keep you informed.

6. We have also been making a life to-do list. I refuse to be an old married couple just living life with children and no life goals. I refuse. In light of that, we have decided to become SCUBA certified. And with that, I've convinced him to go to the Great Barrier Reef. Score one for B-town. This may also mean that he'll move to the beach one day... I thought I'd never see the day.

7. I'm baking cookies. One batch GF and one batch normal. I am pleased to announce that I can't taste the difference.

8. I'm shooting a wedding in less than a month.

9. My friend Rachael is having a baby in about a month... maybe sooner... who knows. And this stirs ups all sorts of giggles and bubbles in my stomach (I can't imagine what it does for her). The baby name starts with an 'A', and I've been guessing for too long. All bribe money can be sent to me.
10. My kitten is HUGE now. I had to make him a new bed, and he jump onto the window. But he still sleeps belly up, and that makes everything better.
11. I would really really love one of these:

I think that it would look adorable on my kitchen counter. And it's green. And summery. Speaking of summer.... WHERE HAVE YOU GONE?!?!
Come back.
Please.
No?
Why?
Fine.

Comstock Family Reunion 2010

2010-07-20T16:18:00.008-04:00

A few weeks ago Daniel and I traveled back to Colorado Springs where my family was hosting the Comstock family reunion. Here are a few highlights:

- Uncle Denny was playing soccer (barefoot) with second cousin Emily (not to be confused with cousin Emily who is 3). It was dark, and Uncle Denny was trying his best to dominate, but let's face it... Emily owned. If I remember correctly there were also some (2) frisbees flying around, and it was mass confusion for all that were involved. And then Uncle Denny kicked the ball straight on, and thought he bent his toenail. He went to check, and he didn't. The toenail popped off, only hanging by some skin. It was nasty, everyone stared, Uncle Denny may have scream while pouring on hydrogen peroxide, and may or may not have cursed. I would have. Second Cousin Matt (an awesome nurse) gave him bandaging instructions, and a few encouraging words.

- Young People played the Old People in wiffleball. We won. All three games. There was a ton of smack talk, some unnecessary roughness on the field, and some great plays. In the end, we young people rocked it.

- A group of us (including the Mesward boys) decided to climb Eagles Peak one Saturday morning. It's my favorite hike/view of Colorado Springs. The hike is just long enough to remind you that you're really out of shape, short enough to do in a morning, and high enough to make you feel pretty hardcore for finishing it. I thought I was going to die on the way up... and the way down. But you just couldn't beat the view.

- We ate a ton of really good food. This family is not short of good cooks or good eaters. Lets just say both job were done very well.

We had a really great time. I was thankful for Daniel to meet the extended family, to meet new members of the family, and be reunited in a reunion sort of way. Enjoy some pictures documenting some great moments. Can't wait for the Comstock Family Reunion 2012, Las Vegas.

Rachael's Baby Bump - Teaser

2010-06-30T08:46:00.002-04:00

Just to wet your whistle, take a look at Rachael's baby bump! She's one of those ladies that everyone looks at and says, "I hope I'm that cute when I'm pregnant." More photographs of Rach and little Baby Brown to come soon!

Matt and Mandy Engagement

2010-06-15T09:16:00.007-04:00

These have been done for some time, but I forgot to share them in the midst of our move.

Matt and Mandy are planning their wedding for late August, and I'm so excited to be capturing their day for them. They are such a fun-loving couple surrounded by such family. Daniel originally became good friends with Matt his freshman year at Rose, and Mandy and I hit it off quickly (wives/girlfriends of engineers need to stick together). They are musically talented and such a kind and giving couple. Our time in Terre Haute would not be the same without them.

Enjoy their shots. Let me know what you think!

2 years (and one day)

2010-06-08T12:14:00.003-04:00

A lot has changed in the two years that Daniel and I got married.
A lot of growing as occurred.

Some people thought that we were nuts for getting married so young.
I guess I cant blame them.
They were probably jealous. A love like this is few and far between.
Or just concerned. We were young, going to great places.

We could not have imagined the adversities that we would face.
I'm glad we didn't try to imagine them, actually.
That would have spoiled the fun.

It's been hard.
The compromising, the patience, the unconditional love... the homework.
No one said it would be easy.

I can tell you this for certain.
There was some point
Some phone conversation, some voice inflection,
some statement, some compliment,
in which I knew
in which he knew
that life could not go on without the other.

Corny? Fact.
Truth? Affirmative.

Marriage was the next step.
Come. What. May.

So we followed His heart. We followed our hearts.
What God has created, let no man separate.

Here is to many more years of growing, loving, compromising, laughing, and car dancing.

The Garden.

2010-05-13T19:17:00.006-04:00

I feel pseudo-domestic this summer. Besides the fact that we are moving to downtown Cincy this summer, I took the liberty to plant myself a garden. It really isn't that spectacular, but I do believe that it is a step toward being a domestic, handy, organic, wife. I've learned a lot about it since planting, and I'm still slightly overwhelmed by it. None-the-less, I'm excited for the plants to start producing... I'm just hoping something starts doing something before we move. Otherwise, we might completely miss out!

In other news, tomorrow we get Mister (the Marked Chinese Fighting Kitty) Mesward. There's another step towards being domestic. Children.

That's a big 10-4.

Love... it happens

2010-05-06T12:17:00.003-04:00

Love.

It's happenin' folks. Matt and Mandy are tyin' the knot! It's 'bout time if you asked me.

I love my job.

Its been awhile...

2010-04-15T00:25:00.002-04:00

Because I've become a softy.
Because Daniel pulled an "all-nighter" last night and has been passed out since 3:30pm.
Because I have walked a path of too much resistance,
conquering middle schoolers, pompous professors, 60 page reports, too much history, and kitchen mice.
Because I have gray hairs.
Because I'm rebellious.
Because Terre Haute has a "smell".
Because I got Easter M&M's at Sams Club for a price I couldn't resist.
Because of sales at Victoria Secret.
Because of new flip-flips.
And pink wallets.
Filtered water.
Broken cell phones.
My budding garden.
80 degree weather.
Carpeted floors.
New Music.
Tupperware.
And because I got the chance to paint my toenails,

I have a picture of our (potential) new member of the family. Please take notice of the "M" strategically "furred" onto its forehead. He (I'm hoping) will be named.... Mr. Mesward.

Animal Kingdom War

2010-02-05T10:22:00.003-05:00

Day 5: I'm on a roll, baby. This no meat thing isn't too shabby. This might be good, and it might be bad... but I really don't notice too much of a difference. There are many factors that play into this...
- I've been too busy to go grocery shopping for full meals.
- I've been super sick and haven't eaten much, period.
- The meat is in the house is specifically for Daniel and/or guys Rambo night.
- And I'm really determined to not eat any delicious meat.

Changes in thought process and how I think about has changed. I've enjoyed the veggie wrap at SubConnection, which I know I would have never tried unless I was on this... I mean, who can beat roasted turkey in a wrap. Seriously now. And, as I look through recipes, I find that I look for ways to make it vegetarian. Such as substituting veggie broth for chicken or beef broth. It's fun. Liberating. I'm empowered. :)

As I have mentioned before, I've still eating dairy items. So... maybe I'm not getting the full vego experience, but, baby steps. Remember? And I'm not trying tofu yet. Period. Gross.

The following story is true. No alterations.

All laws of the human to mouse interactions were broken a few mornings ago. I'm slightly bitter about this, but I feel that my small blogging audience can help me through emotional therapy.
Groggy. Frizzy Hair. Coffee. Needed. Now. Pronto.
Typical early morning for me. I'd like to say that I'm so nice and perky in the morning, but I wouldn't be fooling anyone. It is a little rough sometimes, but once I get the coffee in my body, all systems are a go. I dragged myself into the kitchen to get my caffeine fix and with a little time to spare, I decided to wash some dishes. Weird... I know. So I'm washing a bowl (which was going to be thereafter used for cereal) and decide to grab a paper towel out of the pantry to dry it out. Normal. I open the pantry door reach up to grab a towel and BAM.... mouse on top of the paper towels.
We had a small problem with mice in the past. But, I was sure that was fixed with some sticky traps months ago. I haven't had any reason to believe they dared to enter again. Little punks. This guy pulled a fast one on me.
Being the woman that I am... I screamed, threw my bowl on the counter, screamed again, and probably yelped a little. Then I stared at him. He didn't move. Suspended on the pantry door, on the paper towels... the sucker didn't move an inch. He stared me down. I mean, I really just interupted a perfectly good morning for him.
We continued to exchange glaring looks.
Being the wife that I am... I scream for Daniel (who was sound alseep in the bedroom). At first it was a "please help me call," then it was a "darling-sweetie-sugar-munch, get your butt in here right now call," then I broke out the big guns... the "I'm-being-raped-get-your-skinny-tush-in-the-kitchen-this-instant-and-help-me call". It didn't work. He was passed out. *This is the part where I assure you that I teased him endlessly about not responding to the freaking-out voice of his wife. Sleep is important... but really.*
So, being the rational girl that I am (haha), I slowly reached for a Tupperware and lid. It was woman against beast. This was my time to shine. I'm the hero in this story.
Mind you... the mouse was just staring at me still.
It was probably a world-class show to him.
I creeped toward him.
Slowly.
Very.
Slowly.
And then, the unthinkable. The little guy scrambles back, gets a running start, takes off with the full length of the paper towel roll ahead of him... and

LEAPS

onto me!

That's right folks.
Mouse on my shoulder. Everything after that happened so fast. He ran down my freaking out body, and right into the bottom of the pantry (past two mouse sticky traps) into his little hole.
Being the calm and collected person I am... I freaked. That JUST happened. The mouse went THERE. *snap snap snap*
ATTENTION ALL ANIMALS:
There are unwritten laws Your Excellency Animal Kingdom. Laws about not touching humans because we are terrifying. Laws about leaving me alone. Approach only when you are asked. It isn't hard. I hold your fate. And for the love of Pete.... I'M NOT EATING YOU RIGHT NOW!!!! Seriously? You should be happy.
It's war, oh breaker-of-human-interactions. Full on, balls to the wall, war. No more Mrs. Nice Guy.

Baby Steps

2010-02-02T16:15:00.002-05:00

Huzzah!!! I made it through the first day. Not only that, but I'm almost through the second day! No lunch meat, chicken, or pot roast.

An observation I have noticed though... and this could get really old... but I'm always hungry. Always. I guess it is meat that fills you up and never lets you down (yes, that's what she ... nevermind). So we shall see how these next few days/weeks go, but I thought I'd share my small success with my small blogging world.

Tonight on the menu: steamed veggies, leftover soup, all over brown rice. Yum.

Bring on the Veggies

2010-02-01T14:00:00.003-05:00

Well, here's goes nothing. In light of New Years resolutions, healthy eating, and stretching myself, a few friends and I have decided to take on a new diet for the month of February. So, bring on the veggies. BRING IT! Bring it? I'm scared.

My preface to this whole situation is that I love with my whole entire body meat. Chicken, fish, beef, pork... everything. I'm an equal opportunity employer when it comes to digesting some good ol fashion meat. In fact, I can't think of many meals that I haven't made that didn't have some sort of meaty goodness.

So why, you might ask. Why would this beef lover of sorts put herself through this? Why would a woman who craves hamburgers like they are chocolate decide to write off such a thing? Because. Just that. Because.
1.) I love a challenge.
2.) I love trying to stretch my cooking.
3.) And I'm there for my girls thick and thin.
4.) And I've heard that it may help with some weight-loss goals I've been working on.

So I don't have any medical condition, I'm not a "save the animals" type of girl (I prefer organic... but maybe I'll go into that another time). There is this big unknown about being a Vegetarian that I'd like to explore. I've never tried eggplant, I don't really care for peppers... but I think I should man up and give them some time.

Daniel seems pretty indifferent. I'll still have meat around the house for him since I make him live without gluten. It will be a fun balancing act to make sure he gets his fat and protein and that I eat no meat.

Tonight, we are having Vegetable Soup for dinner... and I'm praying that it will give us two dinners so that I don't have to do too much creative thinking until after this week. We'll see. School hates me right now, and I have no free time.

So cheer me on, keep me accountable, and please please please don't tell me about the juicy steak you're having. For the love of all things holy. Oh yea, and Valentines Day doesn't count. We always have a nice steak for the holiday. So there.

Lord help me.

Who's your God?, Relaxation, ...Body Parts...

2009-11-20T12:22:00.003-05:00

Live: What do you live for? What is you kick in the pants every morning that convinces you not to press the 'snooze' one more time? I WANT it to be unconditionally for Jesus. But, I can't be truthful with myself and say that my drive for everything is Jesus. That's horrible, I hate that about myself. Today I pray for a revelation of His Spirit, a new day, and a new opportunity to wake up for Him.

Love: Today, I'm especially in love with the prospect of Thanksgiving break. EVEN though I have to write a paper this weekend, and have to go to school Mon and Tues, a break sounds heavenly. Thank you Jesus for a chance to just hangout with my husband and celebrate Thanksgiving.

Laugh: Today my teacher made me laugh really hard. As we were talking about the biological factors of development, she clicked to the next slide and screamed, "UTERUS! 9am, and you're seeing a uterus. That's right, it doens't get much better than that!" Maybe I'm immature... but that's pretty awesome.

Chicken Fried, Short List, Zumba

2009-11-12T14:29:00.005-05:00

Live: This song is me today... just because. And if you don't prefer a beer (I know I'd much rather have a girly drink... pretend it's kool-aid!) To be visually stimulated by some good country music go here!
You know I like my chicken fried
Cold beer on a Friday night
A pair of jeans that fit just right
And the radio up....

Well I was raised up beneath the shade of a Georgia pine
And that`s home you know
Sweet tea pecan pie and homemade wine
Where the peaches grow
And my house it`s not much to talk about
But it`s filled with love that`s grown in southern ground
And a little bit of chicken fried

Cold beer on a Friday night
A pair of jeans that fit just right
And the radio up
Well I`ve seen the sunrise
See the love in my woman`s eyes
Feel the touch of a precious child
And know a mother`s love
And its funny how it`s the simple things in life that mean the most
Not where you live or what you drive or the price tag on your clothes
There`s no dollar sign on a piece of mind this I`ve come to know
So if you agree have a drink with me
Raise you glasses for a toast
To a little bit of chicken fried

Cold beer on a Friday night
A pair of jeans that fit just right
And the radio up
Well I`ve seen the sunrise
See the love in my woman`s eyes
Feel the touch of a precious child
And know a mother`s love

I thank God for my life
And for the stars and stripes
May freedom forever fly, let it ring.
Salute the ones who died
The ones that give their lives so we don`t have to sacrifice
All the things we love
Like our chicken fried

Cold beer on a Friday night
A pair of jeans that fit just right
And the radio up
Well I`ve seen the sunrise
See the love in my woman`s eyes
Feel the touch of a precious child
And know a mother`s love

Love:
Book of Esther.Daniel.Blueberries.Homemade Chili. Irene Jaw.School.Zumba.Sleep.

Laugh:
Today Rachael Brown and I decided to try out a Zumba place together. We both Zumba on our own at different times, but doing anything with her is WAY more fun. So, we went to the Senior Center and Zumba"ed".... hold it.... yes, the Senior Center. I was pretty pessimistic, thinking that older ladies probably didn't shake their "ta-tas" like other Zumba places. I was right. BUT, that didn't make it any less fun. It would have made a lovely scene in a movie where two girls find themselves in the mists of old people dancing... at first they laugh a lot at what they are experiencing... and then they just don't care. We vamped it up a lot. I'm sore... really sore. Like I just ran my arms through a meat tenderizer sore.
So here were our friends...

And this was Rachael and I....

That's right... we rock.

Intentionality, School, Liberation

2009-10-16T10:12:00.003-04:00

Live: Have you stopped and breathed lately? My life is more than chaotic with school (and my new found love... Grey’s Anatomy). But, as I've been walking through the fall struck campus, I've been intentional of just thanking God for this opportunity. I have the freedom to love today, the freedom to learn, and the freedom to smile. Yeah, I have a lot of papers and random busy work, but in the long run they won't matter. You don't have to have intentionally thankful thoughts only around Thanksgiving.

Love: I loooooooove school. Especially now that everything is really stressful. I love learning, trying to stay awake in class, trying to retain as much information as I can, and picking the brains of my favorite professors. I love learning about all the complexities of Special Education, the psychology and development of young children, and how our brain works. I love that my professor quotes Avenue Q and South Park on a regular basis, and that my other professor calls us his children. I love school. I'm weird. And I love that too.

Laugh: So this morning I was driving to school, and of course I was late. I'm always in a hurry. That is a life lesson that I haven't mastered... time management. Sometime I work better when I'm super stressed out. My husband may hate me, but things get done. Anyways, I was driving quickly (not speeding... just quicker than suggested) to school and just because Terre Haute and God have a sense of humor I was railroaded. Railroaded is a common term in Terre Haute. (Railroaded: Stopped inconveniently by one of the 18 million trains that come through town on a daily basis. May be the best excuse when running late.) So the railroad bars came down... and I was officially going to be late. I waited... and waited... but no train was coming. Then, some redneck (but Jesus loves him too) behind me revved his engine and drove his Ford F-14658739473-50 around me, and through the railroad bars. Whaaaaat?!?! You can't do that mister! Then, I looked at the clock... looked at the bars... and did it. I dashed the train bars, pulled a completely illegal maneuver. It was liberating. Not only did I get to school on-time, but I also rocked a sweet S-turn avoiding death. (This is the point where I should mention, but don't want to, that a train never came and there was a mere glitch in the system.)

Coming of Age

2009-09-27T13:11:00.003-04:00

This morning Daniel and I went on a cleaning rampage. Well, I went on a cleaning rampage and Daniel knew to jump on the bandwagon. I was picking up the tipped Tupperware off the pantry floor shelf and there it was... dead as could be... a caught mouse in the sticky trap. Yep, gross... I know. With this old house, and the weather turning chilly, mice love to find their way between the walls of our apartment. Luckily last year we figured out where they would enter through and we planted their death traps accordingly. But, that just meant that we would have to deal with dead mice. So I gasped and turned away as quickly as possibly (while maintaining my composer) and told Daniel that there was a mouse in the trap. I completely removed myself from the situation but going into another room so I wouldn't have to watch. And after a lot of "eeeaaaawww," "this is sssoooo gross," and "uuuggghhhh," Daniel said, "You know when we were younger and when things like this would happen you'd call you Dad and he'd take car of it, well, it sucks that it's my job now."
:)
Apparently no one mentioned that before he signed up for this marriage gig.

Eric & Brandi

2009-09-24T16:59:00.005-04:00

So I'm completely and totally excited about this. Special thanks to Miss Lyndi Long for allowing me to shoot along side her.
It is about time for those Christmas card pictures, and I know weddings are just around the corner! If you know of anyone who would be interested in some family, engagement, senior, or wedding pictures, have them contact me for prices and a look at my contract.
Now for the feature presentation: Mr. and Mrs. Eric Avila

Dirty Little Secrets

2009-08-31T10:15:00.002-04:00

It is Fall here in the grand ol city of Terre Haute, and it is very welcome. School is officially in full swing, and Daniel isn't too far behind me. I'm going to try really hard to remember this beautiful weather when it is brutally cold and January/February/March. The encouragement that it won't always be hell on ice will get me through those harsh mornings.

Because we are college students and money doesn't grow on trees, I've been searching more and more for place with free samples, great deals, and frugal ideas.
This place is my new favorite. I've got free designer perfume samples (who doesn't like to smell different every once in a while?), cereals, home products, hair products... most everything. And, it is neatly categorized so you aren't spending unnecessary time looking through crap you don't want. Also, check out www.oldnavyweekly.com for wonderful deals such as $65 off a $100 purchase (yeah... I know!). They are all over the place, but www.dealseekingmom.com has great updates daily.

There you go. It is because I enjoy seeing others use their money wisely that I share my dirty little secrets.

Completeness by Oswald Chambers

2009-08-20T21:52:00.002-04:00

This is an essay part of the daily devotional "My Upmost for His Highest" by Oswald Chambers.
It was convicting to me... and I know in this day it is SO incredibly easy to lose sight of God. Allow this to encourage you to receive rest from the One who can give it best.

Completeness

"And I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Whenever anything begins to disintegrate your life with Jesus Christ, turn to Him at once and ask Him to establish rest. Never allow anything to remain which is making the dis-peace. Take every element of disintegration as something to wrestle against, and not to suffer. Say - Lord, prove Thy consciousness in me, and self-consciousness will go and He will be all in all. Beware of allowing self-consciousness to continue because by slow degrees it will awaken self-pity, and self-pity is Satanic. Well, I am not understood; this is a thing they ought to apologize for; that is a point I really must have cleared up. Leave others alone and ask the Lord to give you Christ-consciousness, and He will poise you until the completeness is absolute.

The complete life is the life of a child. When I am consciously conscious, there is something wrong. It is the sick man who knows what health is. The child of God is not conscious of the will of God because he is the will of God. When there has been the slightest deviation from the will of God, we begin to ask - What is Thy will? A child of God never prays to be conscious that God answers prayer, he is so restfully certain that God always does answer prayer.

If we try to overcome self-consciousness by any common-sense method, we will develop it tremendously. Jesus says, "Come unto Me and I will give you rest," i.e., Christ-consciousness will take the place of self-consciousness. Wherever Jesus comes He establishes rest, the rest of the perfection of activity that is never conscious of itself.

Random Rants (May I have your attention please?)

2009-08-14T13:01:00.003-04:00

Last full week in the Nati. I can't believe how time has flown by! I also can't believe that I'm starting school again in a week and a half. That is NUTS! I am feeling a weird mixture of emotions about jumping back into school. I mostly want to get it all over with, but I also love learning... so I'm trying to savor every part of the school experience. Though I'm currently not openly saying this in conversation, I sorta like Cincinnati. It is not Colorado by any means, but it has a lot to offer. Ohio is a pretty cool state to be in. There is a lot of outdoor activities, the people are friendly if you're friendly first, and if you live in the outskirts of town the crime decreases significantly. I suppose if GE Aviation gave us a deal we couldn't refuse, I wouldn't mind residing here for a little while after college.

College is another situation. I'm praying really hard that everything works out smoothly with trying to graduate in two years, and getting all the classes I need in. It would royally suck if Daniel moved to Cincinnati and I had to stay another summer in Terre Haute to finish my classes. Yeah, royally suck. Long distance dating was really hard, I can't imagine long distant marriage.

I really liked the 'not working' part of my summer. It sounds lazy and slightly ridiculous... but it was glorious! I had loads of time to think, play, recover, and read! Even though I really want to get a teaching job after school, I could definitely see myself staying home and being a housewife someday. I could have a huge garden, be thrifty, manage my household, and clean with green products. Oh yeah, I'm totally into cleaning green now. I wish I had discovered being environment friendly soon in my summer, because I would have had more time to explore the loveliness of making your own ways to be green. There are books beyond books on how to simplify your life, and be a good steward with your resources. I see lots of baking soda, tonic water, lemons (OH, I want a LEMON TREE!!!), and white vinegar in my future. I've also come to love fresh veggies from the markets. It makes me super excited to be making my own salsa, hummus (though I haven't tried it yet), pickles, jam, and granola. All I need is some jars and those sucky machines that vacuum all the jars air tight. Some would wonder why I finish school then not be enslaved in the workforce all the days of my life... School is my selfish ambition in life. It is for me because I told myself that I would finish college and get a four year degree. I couldn't let myself down, and it something that I won't compromise (this is the part where I add the bit about God perhaps changing my heart down the road or whatever... just sayin' for now, school beckons me). What life after graduation holds, only God knows. I've tossed around the idea of graduate school if the market is really bad still, but I might be happy writing blogs and nothing, being a housewife, and being involved in the community. I'm reminded by Proverbs 16:9 In his heart (mind) man plans his way (journey,course), but the Lord determines his steps.

Mom came to Ohio last week. It was amazing. She taught me all sorts of cooking things, and I was SO grateful to have a buddy in town to explore with. She is ridiculously funny too and Daniel and I can't get enough of her. There were multiple nights where we would say goodnight to her and shut our door... only to hear 5 minutes later her cracking up in the other room. It was hilarious.

She taught me how to make red chili sauce from dried chili's! We made chicken fajitas one night, and smothered burritos the other... and those meals kept on giving long after she left. I made carne asadas, a breakfast fritatta, an international dinner frittata, AND more burritos with the leftovers. Whew. It was awesome.

And now... I need some suggestions. As school oh-so-quickly approaches, I need some quick dinner ideas from EVERYONE! They can be anything, I'm just making a personal cookbook that I can go through (or Daniel.... right, honey?) and pick out a meal that I have most everything for on a fly. So give me some options people!!

I love you all, you beautiful people you.

Mom in OH: pt. 1

2009-08-06T08:23:00.005-04:00

These are pictures of Mom and I prancing around OH. There is never a dull moment. More stories and pictures to come, but we have some outlet shopping to do!

Camping Pictures

2009-07-21T12:30:00.006-04:00

>>Campfire Food<<

>>We were on a HUGE lake. It was awesome<<

>>Feeding The Coons<<

>>The Fire Starter<<

>>Daniel showing off The Palace<<

In The Life Of: The Meswards Go Camping

2009-07-19T21:39:00.003-04:00

Daniel and I took the free weekend as an opportunity to be "at one" (in a very non Thoreau way) with nature and go camping for the first time by ourselves. It was one of those all-grown-up moments as we planned meals, picked a place, and got all of our camping gear together. I couldn't help but think of the countless times that my mom planned camping trips for our family and I would try any excuse to bow out of the event kindly. What changed? Nature certainly hasn't, but maybe my yearning to be away from life has. I've learned to value and want the quiet moments in life, and camping give me a few days of just that. We hiked, biked, talked, ate until we popped, and enjoyed silence.

Nature has the strangest way to drawing you close to God. I don't know if it is the simplicity or the complexity of nature that connects you, but I'm always able to talk, listen, and enjoy God more while surrounded by nature. I suppose that Jesus went into the garden to pray, so maybe something is to be said for that. I'm thankful for the opportunity to meet God this weekend in His creation. I'm especially thankful that he didn't put all the beauty of creation in Colorado, I was worried for a little while that God was unfair to the rest of the world and spent more time in the Rocky Mountains. Good job on Ohio God, I'm impressed.

Now lets talk nitty-gritty. Some might ask, " how does one go camping with a gluten intolerance?" My answer, "simple, just think practical!" Here is what Daniel and I decided to cook up over the fire, and it is sure to leave no trace of gluten (and it won't even taste gluten free!!)
Camper Pies
- You can find these little handy camping tools in the camping section, but basically you can grill a sandwich in the flames of your campfire! Sweet, I know. So Daniel doesn't like good sandwiches, so he had PB&J. I (with more evolved taste buds) had a Reuben. It was fantastic. And that night for dessert, we put blueberry pie filling in between our slices of bread, with one marshmallow, and had ourselves one heck of a blueberry camper pie. You're jealous, I know.
Cheesy Campfire Potatoes
Pre-baked potatoes sliced into bite sized pieces. Put them in a foil pan, chop up some butter, simmer over the fire on a grate. Once they are nice and toasty, add some spices of your choice, some Velveeta (oooohhhhh yeeeah), a smidgen of sour cream, and TA-DA... the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. True statement.

Here is the list of Animals we saw on our trip:
Cardinal
Blue Jay
Freaking huge Daddy Long Leg(s) - They were seriously freaking huge
6 raccoons feasting on our neighbors food
Skunk (also feasting)
House cat (who now apparently lives in the wooded areas of the campground)
Tick (attached to Daniel's leg)
Field Mouse (who burried his head in some leaves after he knew I spotted him. Apparently he didn't realize that I just laughed at his hairy booty and tail sticking up at me)
Yellow Beetle
Water Bugs that did not like to swim alone
Various bugs in our tent which I leaped after to kill

I'll upload pictures later of our journey, our internet is way slow right now. So... although no transcending occurred, and I didn't pop into an all-seeing eyeball, camping with my husband was incredible. We are totally excited for all the camping adventures to come.

Is it weird to talk about detox and martinis in one blog?!?!

2009-07-02T10:05:00.003-04:00

I never really updated since the ending of our detox diet.. sorry about that. Unfortunately, I don't think there are too many people waiting anxiously ;o)

So the detox was suppose to end officially Sunday, but Daniel and I decided to end it on Friday because (I know, I know, big cheaters) we made a spontaneous trip to Terre Haute for a friend's weddings and a good-bye party. Here are a few observations from the whole experience:
1. My stomach became very used to eating only fruits and veggies/ taking herbal supplements. My appetite changed and I was less bloated after the week was over. That was really nice. I felt pretty good, my skin cleared up, and my jean fit a little better (probably from losing water weight... but we drank SO MUCH fluids.)
2. Our tastes were way different afterward. We went Chipotle one night and I couldn't believe all the flavors bursting in my mouth! There was so much salt that I was actually twitching my face... I love salt... that has never happened before! Foods the used to be not so sweet were extremely sweet... like strawberries, blueberries, bananas. I like that. Instead of forcing my self to eat fruit because it is good for me, I was eating fruit because it satisfied my sweet tooth (not my chocolate tooth, though).
3. My body processes food a lot faster.

I would consider this detox a success even though we cheated out of it early. We didn't starve ourselves, we pounded our bodies with loads of nutritious foods, and we gave our bodies the opportunity to cleanse itself.

My little (taller) sister is out for the week. She flew in yesterday and the fun hasn't stopped since. We walked along the Newport, KY levee, and ate at a really swanky bar on the river. Oh story time:
The bar (Bar Louise) was having a $1 burger night. Even though I wasn't feeling a burger then, being the frugal woman I am I decided to go for it for the sake of saving money. Since I did that, I thought I could get a martini too because I'm 21 now... and I do what I want ;o) Mostly I figured that since we were saving by getting a burger, I could get a drink and it would be like getting a regular plate with water... but I get a martini instead. Yea no. I didn't think to ask how much this 8 oz drink cost... and it was 9 freaking dollars once the ticket came. ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!?!?! It was a fantastic martini... but I would have equally enjoyed the water knowing that I was saving 9 dollar by not getting a drink. Sigh, live and learn. You got me this time Bar Louise, but next time I'm coming during 1/2 drink night... and only getting a drink.

We are headed to the Cincinnati Zoo today :o) It's time to visit the ancestors ;o)

That was a joke.... btw.

Detox - Halfway There

2009-06-24T09:11:00.002-04:00

"I think I can, I think I can"

We are half way through this week long detox journey, and I'd say it is working (Daniel would say he's hungry). It's true, only eating fruits, veggies, and white meat is a little harder than people think. First of all its expensive, and second of all it is a huge drop in calories which puts a toll on you. With that said, I know I'm being cleansed... I won't give you details but.... yeeeah.

Yesterday we went to Newport, KY to the Barnes & Noble right on the Ohio River. It was awesome. We walked across the river on the Purple People Bridge and walked along the river boardwalk. It was nice to see people jogging, exercising, and enjoying the sunset. The boardwalk is massive!! I can't wait to spend more time there. They have restaurants on both sides (OH and KY), parks, trails, shops. I loved it. It made me feel like I was on the Brooklyn Pier in NY. It was hard not to try some yummy ice cream from a famous parlor... but we'll just have to go back after we're detoxified.

Tonight Daniel and I are going canoeing with his work. GE plans a lot for it's employees, I like that :) Hopefully we are able to interact with people and just have a good time hanging out!

I'm totally missing Colorado right now... *sigh*

Detox Week

2009-06-22T08:42:00.002-04:00

It is detox week here at the Mesward household, and I love new adventures with Daniel. I have been thinking and researching the idea of a detox diet for a few months now. There are a lot of strange ways to go about cleansing your body, but I feel like we took a humane approach.

Some diets require you to only have green tea, honey, and some strange concoction for ten days... psh, we wouldn't last three hours. Others just make you take this magical pill and all of a sudden your cleansed (I'm dubious, and it's super expensive). I just did a combination and made up my own little diet. Luckily I have a wonderful husband who will humor me by doing it too.

What we do is basically take out most of the man-made foods in our diet and take an herbal cleansing supplement with our meals. It makes it easier since Daniel has to be gluten-free because we don't have to remove too much except for sugars. I didn't stock up on flavored yogart, ice cream, and milk this week. Instead we went to a farmers market to get some farm fresh veggies, and picked up a bunch of fruits from Sams. We got a lot of tea, some raw almonds and trail mix, and ta-da!! you have yourself a perfectly good detox diet.

News on other fronts:
None.

Online Coupons

2009-06-15T15:01:00.003-04:00

Hi Fellow Frugal-ites,

I found some extremely valuable things on the world-wide-web this past week that any penny pincher will love! Love saving money? Love using coupons? Love your shoppers cards (even though they take up entirely too much space on your key chain and make it almost impossible to find your house key in a hurry)? Then explore and love these sites:

http://shortcuts.com/

http://www.cellfire.com/

You can put coupons directly on your shoppers card and the coupon appears when you buy that item! Amazing? Yes.

I was true to my grocery list last week and saved myself time and money at Wal-Mart. Because I made a weekly meal outline, I felt more organized throughout the week and did not have to throw together meals on the fly. It was lovely.

Friday, Nate and Rachael, Yachts

2009-06-12T10:00:00.007-04:00

Yay for Friday!!! My first work week without Daniel is coming to a close, and I'm proud to say that I survived. I made many discoveries in Cincinnati, and I hope to dig a little deep and really get to know the city more. I found out that all my favorite grocery stores (the ones I can't find in Indiana) are only as far as 15 minutes away, and there are coffee shops and shopping galore.

Just before I left Terre Huate, I had the privilege to do a photo shoot with a couple that Daniel and I love. Nate and Rachael are not only our landlords, but they have been absolutely amazing friends. We always enjoy spending time with them and their little dog Sofi. So I asked them to be my guinea pigs because I was dieing to try out my new camera. We took to the Indiana country scene and they made wonderful models. Here are a few of my favorites ;0)

We look forward to hopefully seeing them here in Cincy soon (hint,hint Browns).

And another side note, Daniel and I are rubbing elbows with the rich tonight at a yacht cocktail party. I'm a little nervous... what am I going to wear?!?!?!

And another side note, I'm sitting across the street from a former beautiful church turn to Urban Outfitters. Awesome. I love it.

Tampons, Meals, and Blogs

2009-06-09T11:36:00.002-04:00

Who doesn't like samples? Seriously. The only reason my Dad would go to Sam's Club on a Friday afternoon with my Mom would be for the free samples. Well ladies, here you go! A free sample for you!

Click on the link below for your free Tampax sample.

http://instoresnow.walmart.com/enhancedrendercontent_ektid71900.aspx

And here is my tip of the day for being frugal:

Planning your meals. There are a lot of bloggers out there that post a "Monday Meal Plan." I haven't decided that anyone who reads this blog would like a weekly play by play, but there are a few benefits to planning out your meals.

1. You have a schedule for yourself. You don't have to think last minute and stress yourself out over dinner. If you can take the time to plan it, dinner isn't a burden and husbands/families around the world will be closely knit (If momma ain't happy, nobody is.)

2. You stick to your list. I know that when I go shopping, I usually buy more than I need. Don't get me wrong, I'm really good at convincing myself that I really will eat 10 lbs of veggies in one week. Limit your waste, stick to your budget... life is goooood.

3. Husbands/families can mentally prepare themselves for meals the don't like. Sorry sweetheart, I make the meals so I get to choose them.

Here are a couple of my favorite bloggers that meal plan:
Learning The Frugal Life
Organized Junkie

Happy Tuesday!!

Cincinnati Impressions, Motion Sickness, Po-po

2009-06-06T20:10:00.001-04:00

Lots and lots of changes have come into our lives these last few weeks. It is rather overwhelming, and at the same time interesting, for Daniel and I to pack up our things and move to Cincinnati. I’d never heard much about Cincy (okay really fast, why the “y”? It only makes it really confusing to everyone. However, only the people in the “know” (the locals) use the “y.” There is your how-to-fake-your-residency-in-Cincinnati fact). I remember a childhood movie, Babes in Toyland (1986), where the bad guy (Barnaby) was trying to gas his prisoners but they were immune because they were from Cincinnati. What a great movie feel free to watch and laugh at the 80’s here http://www.imdb.com/video/hulu/vi1898513177/. But, otherwise, Cincinnati was way foreign to me. Here are some of my very first impressions:

HILLY!!! Yay for hills. These aren’t baby hills either. Thank God, I need to get away from the flat land.
Home Depot. Made me think of Colorado and how much I miss it. I always wanted a Home Depot apron.
Biggs Hyperstore - a cross between Whole Foods and Kroger (King Soopers). Awesome.

We spent a lot of time around various part of Cincy. We took 3 different walking tours of downtown. It was so nice. Thought rainy, we saw most of downtown. I can’t wait to spend a lot of time down there getting to know it. I love culture and city people. Also, we have been to King’s Island twice. Woot! It rocks my socks off. And I have been testing out some advice on motion sickness, here is what I’ve experienced.

Test #1 – I took nothing. I had a pretty empty stomach, and was rather thirsty. I was so stinking sick by the third ride. I had a headache after the first, and almost puked on some roller coaster while being launched upwards (would gravity have punished me or the person behind?).

Test # 2 – Took Dramamine, 2 pills about an hour before we went. I was completely knocked out about 10 minutes after we started driving. After I stopped at a gas station and got some coffee, I was good to go. I ate a little popcorn that I brought just before going inside. Also, I started chewing some mint gum and made Daniel carry some crystallized ginger into the park with him (along with some headache meds… I was really prepared). Between all those things, I had a blast. I didn’t feel sick at all! I kept myself hydrated, my tummy wasn’t hungry, and I took all the meds. So Rach, in Guatamela… Dramamine, ginger, gum, water, and food. Remember J

This summer I’m really changing the focus on what I blog about. We are making a larger effort to being frugal and healthy. Those usually can’t be in the same sentence because healthy food is SO expensive. But, I’ll let you know the deals I’ve got, some tips I’ve discovered, and other people who are in the same boat. There is absolutely no reason you shouldn’t be stretching your dollar to the max.

Daniel has been making some fun at me, but I’ve been really pushing the light and summery foods. Foods that don’t bog you down and foods that keep you energized. We both want to be healthier than we have this past year, and though we may not be able to be more active due to time constraints, we certainly have plenty of room to grow in the healthy area. Hopefully I’ll be able to show you what we do to be healthy and how we balance that with spending.

I know that at least one person like my laugh section, so here it is:

Laugh: I got pulled over by police on the drive to Cincy. I surprised myself. I knew exactly where my registration, insurance, and license were, and I didn’t freak out and start crying. Now, let’s talk about why I got pulled over. Daniel. With the bikes on top of his car and our frugality in mind, he wanted to stay at a speed that was getting great mileage. So being the awesome and submissive wife that I am, I followed him. So we pass the po-po, and I’m like, “Oh look, at least we aren’t speeding!” Soon enough both of them are next to us, one pulls behind me and the lights go on. Shoot. Watch Daniel keep going and the other officer pulls behind Daniel, the lights go on. Double shoot. He walks up and asks for all my information. He then asks if I was with the guy in the red car. I told him I was and that we were married in fact. He asked me why I was going so slowly and following so close, and I told him it was because my husband insisted on going slow to get good mileage. Then he told me that usually why people drive so slow is because they are either drunk, drugged and dealing drugs, or old. Thanks Daniel (p.s. I love you and don’t kill me for telling the story my way). It was at that point that I looked at him eyeing my strawberry, cilantro, and jalapeno plants in my front seat (they were my co-pilots). “Ummm yeah, those are strawberry plants.” He chuckled and said he was a farm boy and just didn’t recognize the cilantro. Phew. He asked if we were moving or on vacation and I told him Daniel had an internship in Cincy but that we’ve been in Terre Haute for Rose Hulman (which he was like, “oh wow, you have a smart one”) but we were originally from Colorado. He told me that my tags were expired (which they are in route… common people, mail sucks these days) and that he’ll just give me a warning. He said I should probably speed up and not follow so closely. After he went back to his car I was slightly upset that only time I got pulled over was because my husband was going TOO SLOW! It wasn’t for something thrilling and exciting, but that he thought I was drunk, old, and/or drugged. When the officer came back he said that he was talking to his buddy up with Daniel and that he said he was ways smarted out because this kid went to Rose, was interning for GE, and really tall. Laugh-out-loud. At least we didn’t have dull start to our summer. It’s always an adventure with my lanky, smart boy.

Starbucks Experience, Sunshine, Summertime Passtime/ Relaxation

2009-05-17T20:43:00.004-04:00

Live: Well, it is pretty darn official. My life at Starbucks, my "Starbucks Experience," is drawing near to the finish. It was bittersweet to submit my two-weeks notice. I've built my Terre Haute, Indiana life around Starbucks. It has had its way with me, jerking me around and treating my internal clock like a rag doll. My partners (a fancy bux way of saying coworkers) have become some of my closest friends; spending 30+ hours with the same people will pull you together with no mercy. I love them, I can't stand them, I can't imagine my life without them.
The hardest part of this whole experience is the fact that for the past eight years, I have lived a life of change and uncertainty. I transferred high schools after my freshman year (best decision of my life). I moved to New York City three years later, moved to Northern Colorado a year after that, and now moved to Indiana... only to be once again be going through the college acceptance process again. Thankfully I'm a pro at this college transfer process madness. No college really has it all together, and brings stress upon those transferring, but I have this down. Starbucks, however, was suppose to be my baseline. The thing that I would be involved in for the next three years. I would master it, breathe it, love it. Once again, as I was just getting off my feet and becoming somewhat confident in where God had me, I fell. My knees caved in and gravity pulled me down. Once again, God reminded me that in him and him alone can I place my feet, all other ground is sinking sand. In him I should find my belonging, my pride, my assurance, my face, my person. Once again, I have surrendered and though I do not walk alone, my future is unclear. Apparently, God likes me to see it that way. Maybe I should become okay with that.

Love: The sun made it's full appearance today in T-Town. Welcome Buddy!!! The rain has been off and on the past few day, and today I was reminded how much I love the sun to kiss my face without a cloud in the sky to be seen. It must be liberating for the sun. You know, to show all its beauty without the hindrance of clouds. Fighting for attention is no fun. Especially when you're the sun.

Laugh: Nothing has really come to mind that is lol-able. So, this leaves room for a little business. I need some opinions and suggestions on movies and shows. I have the whole summer to explore, GIVE ME SOME IDEAS!! What are your favorite movies? Favorite TV shows?

One more thing.... There is a blog in my blog reel that comes up with Cradle Robbing in China. This is an AWESOME blog by one of my former professors in NYC. I'd think everyone would like following it. However, the blog reel doesn't update his current blogs... don't know why, but check it daily. He is pretty consistent.

Psalms, Milestone, Miscommunications

2009-04-20T22:35:00.005-04:00

Live: I love Psalms. When my own words fail me and I'm searching for prayers, the book of Psalm is where I turn. Lately, they have been such a reminder of a steadfast God. A God that does not ignore my words, and who knows my every feeling and emotion. Nothing is hidden to Him, and I want to take full advantage of the refuge I can find in Him. Passages like, "I cry aloud to the Lord; I lift up my voice to the Lord for mercy. I pour out my complaint before him, before him I tell my trouble" and, "You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living," " [...] in your faithfulness and righteousness come to my relief." It's powerful to me. I have the creator of the universe on my side. He covets the time I invest, and His favor is for me. Beautiful. Though I may be worried about how life will pan out in the next few years, there is a God who longs for me to lay it all down at His throne; to be still and know that He will take care of all. I am continuously reminded of His faithfulness.

Love: It occured to me that Daniel and I are almost two months away from being married a year. That, I love.

Laugh: Looking back on this past weekend and my food fiasco, I laugh. Recalling the emotions and thoughts I had over this past weekend and my food fiasco, I didn't laugh. As I was trudging through the week, I knew that I had to make a side dish for a potluck-type lunch we were going to attending Sunday. It's a side dish, no big deal. Well, I couldn't figure out what to bring, so I got this recipe from a book at the library that looked promising. There were a few strange ingredient mixtures, but I guess I overlooked them initially. As I started mixing everything, I was grossed out. I hate cayenne pepper and cumin... and there was a lot of it. There was sugar and celery salt, lemon juice and onions, I thought I was going to puke. Daniel says to leave it alone and just bring it. I just couldn't get over the fact of how gross it was. I had a sleepless Saturday night fretting over this stupid dish. "I know, I'll just bring it and make something else in the morning before I have to leave at 7am!" Obviously I was over thinking this whole situation. I was resting assured that at least my jello-jigglers which I had also prepared would be jiggly and flawless. They were my remedy. Back up a few moments, I had mentioned to Daniel that if we wanted he could put a second layer of jello on Sunday morning before he went to church (I had to be there early), but I also mentioned that if I had time, I could as well. Flawless, remember? Sunday morning comes and I put another layer of jello on (yum, strawberry and blue jello layer perfectly). My morning conitnues and I warn those to be a lunch that my dip sucks, but the jello will be okay. As Daniel and I are listening to the teaching, I lean over and say, "Were you happy that I did the jello this morning?" And he looked at me and said, "I did the jello this morning!" I almost died. WHAT?!?!?! Needless-to-say, my perfect jello was tainted with watermelon jello (I didn't even know we had waltermelon jello), and both of my dishes.... sucked. Well, people eneded up liking both... but thus proves the point that if you think you have communicated enough, you haven't.

Work, Soy Milk, Retainers

2009-04-16T16:21:00.003-04:00

Live: Today I was working all day. I know, most of America works all day... but today it really got to me. The sun was shining (which, it hasn't done in a week or more) and everything outside looked so peaceful and happy. I wanted to be anywhere but at work. Blah. This got me to thinking, "self, make sure when you grow up that you get a job you absolutely love, never settle for less." Thanks, self. Sometimes I find myself searching for my life's path only in a way to better the perception others have of me. It looks a lot more impressive to go to grad school and continue on to your doctorate while balancing a home life with a husband and three chitlins. But seriously? That really isn't me. I guess, maybe it is, and I just don't know about it now. I suppose I should just make my decisions very carefully. You really only have one life to live, and you might as well do something you love everyday. May I be so in touch with my Jesus that His will for my life will naturally flow and blossom, so that I can live a life of fullness in His glory.

Love: Do you ever have something in your life that you don't love but you wish with every fiber within you did? Something that you tell yourself over and over again that you love, just in case you'll believe yourself? For me, it's soy milk. Man I love soy pods SO much, and I love milk SO much. WHY CAN'T I LIKE SOY MILK? It's frustrating!! It's healthy, classy, AND is a free upgrade with a registered Starbucks card. Please body, love soy milk. For me?

Laugh: When I was younger I wore braces, just like every other American child (at least it seems). And now, as a grown girl, I have nightly retainers. Now, I may not wear them religiously, but my smile changes if I don't wear them for a while so I try real hard to wear them as much as possible. TMI? It gets worse. As I lay there in bed, with my subconscious running free, my retainers are usually removed from my mouth (no, not from some alien abduction) by my hands and put in random places. Sometimes under my pillow, in the sheets, or on the nightstand. But once, I couldn't find my retainers for the life of me. With my bed stripped of the sheets, and pillows thrown about, I couldn't believe they weren't there. Did I eat them? It utter dispare, I meandered into the bathroom and took my hair out, only to find them nesting in what I thought was a huge knot... but was merely my retainer all screwed into my hair. Gross. The End.

Thinking, Money, Muumuus

2009-04-13T19:03:00.005-04:00

Live: Bah, good-byes suck. The family left today, but fortunately the memories will last. I've been thinking lately about the grand scheme of life. As in, when I come to the end of the road, what will I think to be the most important things I could have, should have, done. Obviously this is complex because to my knowledge I'll be here a while. And, who knows what I will think then. So with my best judgment I've been thinking about it.

Love: If there is anyone that can show a generous love, it is my Nana. I continuously feel at a loss for words when I think about how generous she loves those around her, and those she does not know. Since my Grandpa passed away in 2001, she has been more than gracious with the money that God has given her. Yes, the money is excessive, but I don't think I'd be so willing to give so much. She supports missionaries, charities, churches, and her family. Would you be so generous? She always says, "It can't go with you, why keep it around?" Ha. My mom usually replies, "Whatever, before I die, stick some in my pocket... I'm takin' it with me!" Haha. It is such a good lesson to learn to be generous with the things (maybe gifts) God gives you.

Laugh: Muu-muu-"the loose fitting unbelted dress designed for women of all sizes, originated in Hawaii." Or in my family, a dress only worn when you want to "let your belly out". They are SO unflattering. I bought my mom and her friend one when I was in Nicaragua as a joke, and now, it's a holiday staple item. This Easter my mom and aunt, adorned in their muumuus, took to the porch to let the holiday food settle in their stomachs and to watch the neighbors. I think I might be shot for putting this photo up... but... it'll make you laugh. For more information on muumuus, please see this.

Death, Family, and Pants

2009-04-06T20:36:00.004-04:00

Live: Sometimes, life gets to me. Not in the sense that life is rough and tough, but that life is passing; life never stops. You keep getting older, you are experiencing. It is not that you will experience (but you will), or that you did experience (because you did), but that at every moment of every day you experience. That is life.
Along those same lines, the process, idea, and fact of death scares me. I don't know if I'm merely more aware of life in general, but I feel like death happens so much and it never gets easier. I have so many instances in my life where death is so near, that I do my best not to think about it. I have friends at war, and it scares me to know that each and every day they put their lives out there. I have relatives that, lets just face it, are drawing near the end (we could all be a lot closer than we think). And the part that brings me to tears every time I think about it is that I have people in my life that are so close to me, such a part of my life, that I can't imagine living without them. Honestly, I couldn't. Gah! I hate it. Not the closeness, but the vulnerability. I hate that I have to let life happen, and to know and trust that God is sovereign over all. I don't think that God puts pain in our lives to show us about Him, but that God puts pain in our lives so that we can have complete Faith and Hope in Him alone.
What brought this "Debbie Downer" of me? Well, the pastor at the church we are currently attending went to speak at a memorial service for this lady that he knew; read about it here. And, so I was facebook stalking and reading through his blog about this lady, and then I read through her blog (yeah, the one about her cancer and how she was fighting), then I read through her husbands blog. Oh man. I bawled my eyes out. It made me think. Read it for yourself, it is really powerful. This is also a tribute to her (if you haven't checked out anything else, then this you must read!)

Love: I love the fact that my Mom, and Aunt, and Grandma are coming out see us this week. Period. I don't want them to ever leave.

Laugh: This one has been a long time coming.... and I'm way too worn out to tell the whole story.... but basically I took a dog out to poop that we were watching, completely unaware that the back to my yoga pants had been chewed off by that very dog. My derriere was exposed to anyone and everyone. Wonderful. I didn't feel a breeze (was there one?), and the dog did not notify me that the crotchel area of my pants was delicious. If you don't laugh at that... I'm at a totaly loss.

Live, Love, Laugh (Numero Uno)

2009-02-27T15:48:00.004-05:00

I suck at blogging. I never have anything wonderful to blog about... Maybe if I give myself categories to this about, it will be a little easier. I got this idea from Grey Street Girl, and I like it. It makes you this about your day/life experiences in a meaningful way. Here we go:

Live: This morning I went to the International House of Prayer for their Friday morning "harp and bowl" service. They ended up not having the service this morning because the director was out of town, but instead I was able to witness these other women pray. I didn't do much praying myself because I'm slightly embarrassed, but listening was so rewarding. It was like breathing in a whole new breath of life. It wasn't your normal "me,me,me" prayers, it was hardcore praying for leaders in the Wabash Valley, praying against natural disasters, praying for revelation, restoration, healing, visions, gifts. It was intense. I was so blessed to be able to listen to these prayer warriors. They livened my faith, and stretched me to look at God in ways I haven't seen Him before. They talked to Him with humbled hearts and they spoke knowing that our God is Lord and Savior over all. Jeeze. What a way to live.

Love: I love when life gives you these unexpected gifts, and you really did nothing to deserve them. It sounds like I'm gearing up to talk about Daniel... but no... Subway made me love life more today. They didn't charge me for Daniel's extra meat, or extra cheese. AND, I told them a 6" sub, and they gave me a footer... for the 6" price. Score. Then, I got to take it to Daniel's work and share a reduced price meal together. Love.

Laugh: Today I had the day off. Huzzah. This is the way to live. I woke up this morning and the first thing I thought and talked to Daniel about was work. He stopped me and told me that it was my day off, so I shouldn't think about work (it kinda stresses me out, frustrates me, and gets me all worked up). So I didn't. To symbolize this, (get ready to laugh) I didn't wash my hair. Ha. No but seriously. I only wash my hair in the mornings because it drives me crazy at work when my hair is a living monster. I didn't work, therefore, I let the monster run wild. It was liberating. This was me being a hippie wild child, and it made me laugh.

Through the Barista

2008-11-12T14:41:00.001-05:00

So when I said that I'm not consistent with much in life, I wasn't kidding. Let us just get it out of the way and say that I royally suck at blogging. I'm okay with that. I hope the reader is too.
Through this blog I want to reflect on my current occupation, slingin' coffee. Working at Starbucks has become much more than merely serving coffee. It is my home away from home. It is the place where my friends are found, a place where I have a niche, and a place where I share my passion with others. Though serving up tasty beverages is a blast, the most dynamic and interesting parts of my job are the customers. I can't help but wonder about their lives, jobs, and families every time they come in. It is such a limited scope that I see their lives through. I find it humorous how I define them, and that is what I'd like to share with you today. It is my goal to give you a glimpse into my customers at Starbucks, the way I see them.
A typical morning at The Bux runs about the same. The overnight crew scurries to get done the last bit of cleaning, and the early morning crew drags in half asleep. Students sit in the lobby with bloodshot wide eyes hauling butt to get that procrastinated paper done by 8am. The caffeine seems to be working, they look focused and their fingers fly across the key board. I hope they get it done. Nurses and business commuters to Indy come through the drive way, in a slight rush. Venti red-eyes are the norm (brewed coffee with one shot of espresso).
She comes in almost every morning, a stronger women. Who knows her story? Why is she up so early? She has her own cup recycled Starbucks cup. Black ice tea, no water. Fifty-four cents. Frequently she'll just ask for a whole glass of tea, no water, no ice. I see right through you lady. We are all frugal these days, but I'm charging you fifty-four cents, and you're taking most of my black tea. Actually, you're taking three times the amount that everyone else gets for two twenty-five. And I know you'd throw a fit if I told you about your stealing bargain. Just say yes Brooklyn. You're a very pleasant lady, I like your home-made drink sleeve, I hope you have a nice day.
"Thank you for stopping at Starbucks today, this is Brooklyn, would you like to try a Pumpkin Spice Latte today?" "No Brooklyn, I'd like aVenti Coffee with cream." "Rose-Mary, get the heck over here!" It's the first of three, she'll be back so if I don't have time to ask her how she is this time around, all is well. Cigarette in her fingers, she has her two dollars and a dime ready for me. I love this lady.
"Thank you for stopping at Starbucks today, this is Brooklyn, I'm sure you'd like to try our Peppermint Mocha Twist today!" "Venti Coffee with Cream" "Hi Jim! Come on around!" Get that pup cup ready, store 2727's favorite dog is coming around. I have no idea what Jim does, but I know that in about two hours he'll come back through, "I'd like a Venti Cappiccino, with an extra shot, and could you add a little whip cream."
"Thanks for stopping at Starbucks today, this is Brooklyn, would you like to try an Espresso Truffle today?" "That's okay. Can I have a Venti Americano with a little steamed non-fat milk?" "You sure can, I'll see you at the window." I've never asked for his name, but he's a really nice guy. His big shiny black car is easily recognizable in the drive-thru camera. He'll never get up set for having wait an extra minute for an unexpected espresso error. With his hair slicked straight back, and in his business attire, I'd never be able to imagine him as a silly dad with fifteen children running around causing incredible ruckus. He's too formal at Starbucks. I'm sure he makes a fantastic business man, he carries a professional look.
A huge rumble at the speaker box usually lets me know she's here. "Thanks for stopping at Starbucks today, this is Brooklyn, can I offer you a Gingersnap Latte today?" "Hey baby girl. I wanna Mocha Frappiccino Grande with a shot of espresso." "Hi Lil' Chris!! I'll get that started for you!" This girl rocks. She is so adorable and drive a ridiculously old orange truck with black racing stripes on the hood." She cuts my hair every six weeks, and is only about 5 foot on her best day. Her cute self bring joy to my morning every time she comes in.
"Hello?" "Thank you for sto..." "I neeeeeeed a latte, with sugar free vanilla, no, sugar free hazelnut, can you put both?" "Yes we can" "Okay, so both of those in a Venti, iced, with a paper thing around a the side." "Okay, did you want all the pumps of syrup in it, or just half and half?" "Yes." "Oooookay? Go ahead and pull around." It happens a lot, you just have to laugh, otherwise you might start getting depressed.
""Thank you for stopping at Starbucks today, this is Brooklyn, would you like to try a Salted Carmel Hot Signature Hot Chocolate today?" "No. I want a tall sugar free vanilla latte with skinny milk, no foam, and a multi-grain roll very lightly toasted." Ladies and gentlemen, now enters Princess. She didn't get her name for exquisite demeanor. Nope. It is because if her drink has the lightest foam on the top (which kinda happen naturally with good steamed milk), she wants you to remake it. If there is not enough sugar-free vanilla (even if it is more than you would normally put in), you must add more. If her multi-grain roll is too hot, its bad. If it is too cold, it's bad. This lady is not afraid to be rude and merciless. It's incredible. Good part - I've become friends with her by chatting with her about her boy that she corresponds with on the internet, and she likes me. It works. Bring it on Princess.
"Hey pretty lady, I haven't seen you in some time." Oh no. Please don't talk to me. Creep-show is here. "Haha, hi!" Please let this be the end of our conversation. I'm sssooo uncomfortable. I'm sorry you had to work all last night, and that you work 12 hours tonight. Really I am. I really think you should stop looking at me now. Somebody get him his Venti coffee refill, get the 2% out of the fridge, and please just let me keep busy so I don't have to talk to him. I feel bad, I really do. I just get freaked out by him. Please exit Creep-show.
One of my favorite families comes into the store quite often. The mom wants a non-fat chai, the dad wants a non-fat mocha stirred, the son wants a regular mocha with no whip cream stirred, and his new fiancé gets either an iced or hot no water chai. Her ring is so simple. Neither of them make much, but their joy for one another makes up for it. She works at a local coffee shop, so it's nice to see her in here. I just love watching her light up while talking to him. So perfect. So in love.
"Thanks for stopping at Starbucks today, this is Brooklyn, would you like to try a Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin today?" "Well that sounds good, but I need to take care of my Sweetheart." [Insert simultaneous groan by all who have a headset on]. "My Sweetheart wants a Venti Cinnamon Dulce Frappaccino Light with no whip cream. Make sure you make that real good now. I gotta take care of my Sweetheart. And I want a Venti Cinnamon Dulce Latte fully loaded with two shot of espresso and whipped cream." The best part of this story is that every time I take their money, they pay me with their medicine bottles full of coins. And I'm not so fortunate for it to be all quarters. Ten dollars in miscellaneous coins is rough. Don't show angst Brooklyn. You love your job... remember?
Then there are the one timers that make their scar. Kind of like a really bad one hit wonder. "Yes I need a Peppermint Mocha Twist, non-fat. I don't want any espresso in it, just coffee in the same amount." "You realize that you're probably paying more than you need. I can just charge for a steamer with syrup and put a little coffee in for you!" "No I want the Peppermint Mocha Twist." "Did you want the whip cream on that?" "Yes" "Here you go. Have a nice day." "Ummm hello? I wanted it iced." "So you want iced coffee in it with peppermint and mocha?" "Yeah I have medication so I can't have caffeine. I just want like a third of the drink coffee." "A third? Would you like just one decaf shot in it so you aren't getting caffeine and you can still taste the coffee flavor, but not too much?" "No." Whatever. "Here you go." "This has whipped cream." "Yeah, I thought you said you wanted it?" "Know what? Whatever. What's your corporate number?" "1-800-STARBUX" "And your name?" "Brooklyn" "Great, I'll be reporting you." For helping you? "Okay, have a great day!" Just say yes Brooklyn. Some people seemed to get worked up over coffee. Maybe something tragic happened in their life, and I was the easiest person to vent something on. I guess that's okay. It happens to the best of us I suppose.
Araf comes in often for his tall Peppermint Mocha, and he is always a joy to talk to. I don't know his story, but he has think accent. It's sweet. His children come in with him and get Strawberry Creme Frappuccinos. They too are precious.
Billy is a kick. Mocha Frappaccino with three shots. He works two jobs 6 days a week, and one on Sunday. She is always so happy, but you can see he is worn out. What a hard worker. His wife is so pleasant. She's partially deaf, but is really good at carrying on a conversation. They work so well together, and he adores her.

These people are one of the best parts of my life. I love what I do. The people that come into the store make my day so unpredictable. I love my job. I LOVE working for the corporate monster Starbucks. It's not the company though, it’s not the free-trade coffee. It's the relationships with my partners and the people that come in to enjoy a cup of coffee that makes me excited to get out of bed each day and serve up a delicious cup of joe.

Intentional Living

2008-09-08T10:10:00.011-04:00

As I thought, my record already isn't too good with this blog thing. It's time, and I've given myself fifteen minutes to compose this blog... I needed to somehow fit it into my schedule.
These past few days I've been thinking about what this next blog should be about. I think I have these lofty goals of what my blog should be, and in reality, that's impossible. It will take a while, but my blog is going to be raw composers and thoughts. They'll be unedited, sometimes incoherent, thoughts on a wide variety of things. There will not be a set length, a picture quota... nothing. It's stress free, just how I need it.
There has been a lot going on lately and there is SO many exciting things I could write about. Such as my surprise vacation to Colorado. Hello! I have the best husband ever. But, this morning something really struck me hard. During my quiet time, I composed a list from Colossians 3 as to what Christians should "put on" and what Christians should "take off." It was incredible. I've always know how as in the likeness of Christ we are to be set-apart, but I've never had a visual list like this. It goes something like this:
Take off:

Sexual Immorality
Impurity
Lust
Evil Desires
Greed
Anger
Rage
Malice
Slander
Filthy Language

Put on:

Compassion
Kindness
Humility
Gentleness
Patience
Forgiveness
Love
The Knowledge of the Word of Christ

What a difference. Seriously? This is a difference that most people do not understand. When Christ wanted us to be set apart, he REALLY meant it. It is not as though we mean to do any of the things on the "take off" list, but we do... usually without any conviction. I feel overwhelmed by the standard of Christ, but I love the grace God gives me from day to day. Thank you Jesus that You'll continue to give me grace everyday.
So there you go. Chew on that for a little bit, I think it will blow your mind.

I'll put some pictures up from our journey out to Colorado. It was perfect how everything worked out. Daniel's company bought a vehicle from Denver on ebay. They were going to ship it out here, but Daniel showed then that it was way cheaper for them to send us both out via plane, have us pick it up, stay in the Springs for a few days, and drive it back. Our food was paid for, a hotel room on the way back, and we spent a day in St. Louis to sight see. In Colorado Springs we spent a lot of time with our families. Daniel's family had soccer games all weekend, so we went to those. My family was having a BBQ, so we got to spend a day eating amazing food with them.

This is my sister, Morgan, and Daniel...gearing up to ride The Hog.

Daniel and my little brother, Kevin, on The Hog
My parents at their birthday party (My dad turned 50 and my mom turned 40) This is just precious :)
My perspective of the St. Louis Arch
Daniel's perspective
This had to be intentional in the city plans. The City Hall framed perfectly by the Arch. Saweeet!

I feel like there should be a benediction right here...
Until next time Ghostrider.

In The Beginning...

2008-08-20T18:08:00.004-04:00

This is suppose to be a simple ordeal, starting a blog. I am not very consistent in much that I do in life, so we'll see how long this blogging deal keeps up.

I plan to do a lot, and probably very little, with this here blog. I figure I can document all sorts of fun, not fun, enlightening, and memorable moments for others to enjoy. I can share gluten-free recipes with those who are gluten intolerant, and for those who are just looking to try something new. It should be interesting none-the-less, and an outlet for creativity.

I'll start with a little about my life. I'll go a few years back and work my way forward. I graduated from a small charter academy high school about 3 years ago. After transferring from a public high school after freshman year, I went to The Classical Academy for the last three years of high school. It was there I found myself, my interests, and my husband. After graduating, I went to The King's College in New York City. The school was in the basement of the Empire State Building. I LOVED it. I love New York City with my whole body. I plan on living there someday. I suppose I shouldn't plan on anything... let us just say I'm lobbying with God for Daniel landing an amazing job in NYC for a few years. Speaking of Daniel, it was this time that he entered my life. We were good friends in high school, but it was the summer before I left for NYC that we spent a lot of time together. We hiked Pikes Peak together that summer, and it was the first time that I really really really wanted to get to know this kid better.

This is us at the top of Pikes Peak.

Once I moved out to NYC, we talked everyday either via email or telephone. EVERYDAY. I'd never kept in touch so well with anyone. He was interested in my life and how I was doing. I liked that. There was always an ear to listen, and a witty comment when I needed one. He soon became my best friend. Since we were long distance, nothing really moved from a friendship while I was away. However, I had high hopes for that Christmas break of 2006. We were inseparable the whole vacation. I'm sure I'll tell many stories of Daniel, but there is one in particular that sent me head over heals for this boy. It was a ridiculously stormy morning, in fact, I'm pretty sure Colorado Springs was under a blizzard warning. Snow made it impossible to drive, the weather really was frightful. I talked to Daniel on the phone, he said he wanted to hang out. I thought, actually knew, he was crazy. There was no way to get anywhere! Twenty minutes later my doorbell rings, and I open the door to this 6"4' boy covered with snow up to his waist, and his face covered in icicles. He really was going to hangout, and he ran from his house (which was about 2 miles away) to my house just to hang out. I knew from the beginning, but he continuously reminds me how much he cares for me. I have never opened the car door for myself, never walked on the street side of the sidewalk, and never had a doubt in my mind that Daniel Mesward was the man God sent me. Okay, enough gooshy-ness. Fast Forward. Just less than a year later we got engaged (I'll tell you that story soon), and six months after that we got married. 06-07-08: I married my best friend. The best day of my life. I'll save that story for later.This is us about to go to his senior prom (he is a year younger than me).

So where am I now? To make a long story short... Daniel goes to a really awesome school called Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in Terre Haute, Indiana. He's studying Mechanical Engineering. So, we are here...(there)...in Terre Haute. I'm taking the year off to get residency, and he's going to catch up the year in school. It's perfect. I'm hopefully going to go to ISU in Terre Haute next year, and we'll graduate the same time. We live a quaint little home that we decorated accordingly, and we pretty much love being married. I'm sure I'll be writing a lot about my life as a barista at Starbucks... and I'll share with you the agony that Daniel goes through with school :)
Thus ends my first blog. I'm excited. Let's just hope it goes beyond this.