Christmas 2007

This year Christmas was kinda busy. I didnt get to do Christmas cards this year because of the busyness. I did get all my Christmas shopping done by Christmas Eve though. :)

My best friend and her husband came into town before Christmas from Tulsa. They were visiting Ben's family for Christmas. I spent some time with her Friday afternoon after work. It was a good time. We drove down to the Concord Mall to meet my sister because she was working. We did a little Christmas shopping at the Mall. The Mall really wasn't as crowded as you would think the weekend before Christmas would be.

Saturday, Steve and I did some shopping at the UP Mall and Concord and it was a little busier. Sunday night, we did the gift exchange with my immediate family. My parents got Steve and I a grill for Christmas. Yeah. Once we get it set up...party at our place. :)
I got to spend some time with Tabby and Shere and their families on Monday for our gift exchange. Shere got me and Steve a "First Christmas" Christmas ornament.
On Christmas Eve, Steve and I drove to Wisconsin for the extended family Christmas after work. I didnt have to work but Steve and Erin did. Christmas with the family was pretty traditional. It started with dinner, then singing Happy Birthday to my cousin (his birthday is Christmas Eve) then it was present time. Which is always fun.

Moving Right Along

Steve and I are finally safe and sound in our new apartment. We have the greatest friends ever that helped us move. We are still unpacking though. We worked all weekend trying to get all of our stuff out of boxes. We got our cable and internet hooked up last week.
It has been a pretty busy few weeks for us. Last weekend was Steve's family Christmas. We got to see all his brothers and neices and nephews. It was a good time. I wish I would have taken pictures, but the battery on my camera is dead and I can't find the charger. :0(

Hopefully, we wont be living out of boxes for much longer. I am really looking forward to when I can walk through the apartment and not run into stuff. The kitchen is almost done. I was actually able to cook in the kitchen this weekend. Steve is finishing up the cabinet that is making this week. He is building us a new cabinet and some more counter space because there isn't very much right now. Once that is finished the kitchen will probably come together pretty fast.

You Tube Debate Quote

Question: I am Joseph. I am from Dallas, Texas, and how you answer this question will tell us everything we need to know about you. Do you believe every word of this book? Specifically, this book that I am holding in my hand, do you believe this book?

Huckabee's Answer:
Sure. I believe the Bible is exactly what it is. It's the word of revelation to us from God himself.

And the fact is that when people ask do we believe all of it, you either believe it or you don't believe it. But in the greater sense, I think what the question tried to make us feel like was that, well, if you believe the part that says "Go and pluck out your eye," well, none of us believe that we ought to go pluck out our eye. That obviously is allegorical.
But the Bible has some messages that nobody really can confuse and really not left up to interpretation. "Love your neighbor as yourself."

And as much as you've done it to the least of these brethren, you've done it unto me. Until we get those simple, real easy things right, I'm not sure we ought to spend a whole lot of time fighting over the other parts that are a little bit complicated.

And as the only person here on the stage with a theology degree, there are parts of it I don't fully comprehend and understand, because the Bible is a revelation of an infinite god, and no finite person is ever going to fully understand it. If they do, their god is too small.

Thanksgiving Update

It has been a pretty busy week with Thanksgiving and moving.
Here is an update of the week’s events:

Wednesday (11/21): On Wednesday, I only worked until noon. After work, Steve and I signed the paper work for our apartment. I got to see it for the first time. It looks really nice. Our friend Greg then came over and helped us move our appliances into our new apartment. We decided to paint the living room of the new apartment so we worked on that Wednesday night. We got back to our old apartment pretty late.

Thursday (11/22): Thursday was Thanksgiving. Steve and I spent Thanksgiving in Ohio with his family. It was a good time with family. The food was really good. His grandma is trying to sell her house so it might be the last Thanksgiving at her house. Steve is a little upset about that because I guess they have been celebrating Thanksgiving there for awhile now. We stayed the night in Lima with his brother and sister-in-law. Randy and Alexis just got a dog so my allergies weren't very happy. I didn't sleep very well Thursday night.

Friday (11/23): Friday was a paid Holiday for Steve and I so it was nice to sit around and be getting paid for it. We got to babysit for his nephew, Keegan, on Friday. Keegan is 18 months old now. After he woke up and we fed him breakfast, we took him shopping with us. We went to the Lima Mall and Keegan slept the whole time we were there in the cart. It was so cute. We took him to Lowes and Menards too. We did some Christmas window shopping. Steve taught Keegan all about Dewault tools and other tools. I think Keegan thinks his Uncle is crazy but that’s ok.

Saturday (11/24): Saturday we drove home. It was good to be home but it still busy. We had to finish packing and getting ready to move. Steve finished the painting over at the new place while I packed up the old apartment.

Sunday (11/25): Sunday, we got up and finished getting ready to move. Tabby, Greg, my parents, my sister, and Steve’s dad helped us move all our stuff to our new apartment. My mom, Tabby, and I finished packing up the kitchen while the guys lifted the heavy stuff into the truck and van. Steve and I fed our friends pizza for dinner. I am thoroughly convinced that we have the best friends ever. We got to sleep in our new apartment for the first time Sunday night. It was really cozy.

We finished moving the rest of our stuff on Monday with Damian, Travis, and Stacy. They are the greatest too. I took a sick day on Tuesday, November 27th. Yesterday, I took half the day as a sick day too. I could have taken a whole day but I was tired of just laying around the house, so I went in to work after lunch. I’m hoping it’s just a bad cold and nothing worse. Steve and I still have some cleaning and unpacking to do.

You have 1 Million Dollars

A friend of mine asked me this question the other day, so I've been thinking about it and I thought I would ask my blog readers (if there any out there). :o)

If you won 1 Million Dollars (let's assume this is after taxes): What would you do with it?
Here is my answer:

1. I would pay off all my debt
2. I would give about 100,000 to my best friend to buy a new house because they are outgrowing there current living space.
3. I would buy Steve's best friend, Damian car because doesn't have one and he needs one
4. I would put about 100,000 into a college savings plan for our future kids
5. I would put about 100,000 into a savings fund to fund our first few years of Wycliffe ministry
6. I would put about 100,000 into an Emergeny Fund for unexpected things that come up
7. I would put about 100,000 into a retirement fund for us to retire
8. I would give 10% off the top to my church
9. and put the rest into a special savings account for the purpose of giving away if any our friends or family needed help.

The Greatest Cause of Atheism

"The greatest single cause of atheism in the world today is Christians, who acknowledge Jesus with their lips, and walk out the door, and deny him with their life style.That is what an unbelieving world simply finds unbelievable. " -DC Talk

Imagine if people who claim to be Christians lived like Jesus taught. Imagine if there were no more out-of-wedlock pregancies born to Christian moms fathered by Christian boys. Imagine if the divorce rate among Christian marriages was actually less than that of non-Christian couples. Imagine for a second if the porn industry had to shut down because Christian boys no longer downloaded porn onto their computers. Imagine if people who said they were Christian didn't go out and get drunk every weekend. What if Christian girls dressed modestly because they respected themselves and the guys around them? What if Christian guys treated females with the respect they deserve?

I understand that even Christians are prone to sin that is the joy of Grace, but what if when you said you were Christian that actually meant something. Or what if you didn't have to tell anyone that you were Christian, people watching your life just knew because your lifestyle screamed it.

I just love the movie Pay IT Forward. It really explains exactly what this world should look like. Just imagine what this world would like if there no more hurting children, no more poverty, no more homeless because Christians took care of the people around them. The welfare system would not be necessary anymore because noone would be hungry. Food banks would go out of business because they wouldn't be needed anymore. I know it sounds like a 'Utopian World" but so what. I truly think it would possible to change with world if every person that professed Jesus as their Lord did one thing ever day to help someone else.I don't think it that crazy of an idea. Do you?

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-24

Temp Job

Well, my temp job ended yesterday. I'm a bit bummed because I was liking the extra money. But it is kind of a blessing disguise. The extra job was starting the stress me out alot. Working 12 hour days M-F was starting to get too much for me. It might not have been so bad if both jobs weren't office jobs. I also didn't feel like I was seeing Steve enough. I would get home at night and I would be so tired. Sitting for 12 hours straight was starting to drive me crazy. Hopefully, the next temp job I get with have more movement or variety to it.
I will also be back at Oasis this week. I have missed my girls like crazy.

YWCA Christmas Wish List - For Adult Clients

Laundry soap & bleach
Slippers
Alarm Clock
Robes
Hair Spray
Body Wash Sets
Toilet Paper
Watches
Calendars
CD’s – variety of music
Organizers/Day Planners
Cameras
Board Games
Purse, wallet
Plastic Storage Bins
Boots/shoes (sizes 5 – 12)
T-Shirts (large, XL, XXL, XXXL)
Shoe Organizers
Comforter sets
DVD’s and videos - variety
Flannel sheets (twin size)
Portable CD players
Radios
Pajamas (large sizes)
Sweatshirts, pants & hoodies (XL to 5X)
Matching rungs or bathroom sets
Heavy winter socks
Jewelry (costume)
Hat/glove sets
Make-up sets for all skin types
Perfume
Stationary
Hair accessories (barrettes, ponytails etc.)
Manicure/pedicure sets
Reading glasses

It would be appreciated if all donations could be delivered to the YWCA by December 17th. All gifts should be unwrapped. If you have any questions please call 574-233-9491.

The YWCA is always in need of new and used Cell Phones, also.

Another Great Weekend!

This weekend was great. Ohio State is still undefeated and Notre Dame lost to Navy. Steve was a bit bummed that the OSU game wasn't on TV locally. Hopefully, we will find somewhere that is playing the game next week.

Saturday was pretty relaxing. I got the laundry and dishes caught up from the week. Then I "watched" the OSU game with Steve. We didn't really watch it. The internet had the play-by-play showing throughout the game, so we could look and see what was happening.

Saturday night, Steve and I had a date night with friends. Shere had been trying to plan a night out for us and Tabby and her husband for a few days. It almost fell apart when she couldn't find someone to watch the girls. Luckilly, my sister is awesome and she agreed to watch the little angels while we hung out. This week Shere, Chris, Tabby, Greg, Steve, and I went to a little Italian Resturant called Rulles in Mishawaka. It was pretty good. My only complaint was that the servings were a little small for the price. They get a A+ for taste though.
I love spending time with those people. I hope we can start doing it more often. The last time the 6 of us got together was August when we went to Hona Jori, which was also spectactular.

Sunday, we went to Gospel Center. It was suppossed to be the first weekend in the new auditorium but somethings happened so the first week is actually going to be next week. After church, I went to physical therapy and did some grocery shopping. Steve likes to eat so I have to buy food alot. Last weekend, we tried this thing where we make 3-4 meals on Sunday and put them in the fridge for Steve to heat up and eat throughout the week. It seemed to work out pretty well. The first week I worked the second job and I wasnt home to make dinner Steve ate alot of PB&J sandwhiches because he didnt want to cook. Last week he didnt have to cook because he had pre-made meals in the fridge. We are trying that again this week. Sunday night we spent a few hours putting together meals for the week. I like it because not only does it keep us organized and save us money on groceries but it also is a way for us to spend time together not in front of the TV.
The next few weeks are going to crazy in our apartment since we are going to cleaning and packing up all our stuff. The family that is living in there now is suppossed to be out by tommorrow.

Update!

I looked at the calendar earlier and realized that it has been some time before I have updated this. It has been a pretty busy few weeks. This weekend at church Rob was talking about we should try not to be so busy. He has told that message so many and everytime I hear it I realize how right he is.
I don't have to be working two jobs right now but I am. The 12 hour days have actually gotten easier as the weeks go on. Steve and I have a goal to be have no more credit card debt within 2 years. I think we can do it if we keep on the path we are on right now. It has taken some discipline. We don't go out to eat nearly as much as we used to. Steve is thinking about taking on a second job after we move, as well. We have an apartment available but they haven't given us a move-in date yet.
The worst part of having to work 2 jobs is I have to miss Oasis on Wednesday nights. I love my girls more then they will ever know. I had so many plans for this year. Part of feels like I'm totally abandoning my girls. I know they will be in good hands with another leader and I'm still accessible via the internet, but it's not the same. I'm hoping that i will still be able to do some events. I don't know how the Temp Job is going to last so I probably won't miss the whole year. Right now I'm just taking it one day at a time.

Did you know?

Did you know?

• One out of two women will experience domestic abuse at least once in the course of their marriage.
  
• 4 million American women are seriously assaulted by their intimate partner each year.
  65% of emergency room visits by women are for injuries sustained during domestic violence.


• One of every three abused children becomes an adult abuser or victim.
  More women are killed by their partners than by muggings, rapes and auto accidents combined.
  
• Domestic violence claims the lives of four women each day.
  
• Approximately 75% of abuse homicide victims are killed after they leave their abuser.


• 50% of all homeless women and children in the U.S are fleeing domestic violence.
  Each year, an estimated 3.3 million children are exposed to violence by family members against their mothers or female caretakers.


• When children are killed during a domestic dispute, 90% are under age 10; 56% are under age 2.


• There are 1,500 shelters for battered women in the United States and 3,800 animal shelters.


• 60% of violent homes where the female partner is beaten so are the children.


• 50% of female homicides are committed by the man who said "Until death do us part".


• 88% of victims of domestic violence fatalities had a documented history of physical abuse.


• The average prison sentence of men who kill their female partners is 2 to 6 years.


• Women who kill their partners are, on average, sentenced to 15 years.


• Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between the ages of 15-44.


• 75% of all 911 calls are domestic abuse calls.


• The loss in productivity due to absenteeism, employee turnover and health care expenses from domestic violence costs U.S corporations between $3 and $5 billion annually.


• Despite these sobering statistics, domestic violence remains the most common, yet least reported, crime in the U.S. Domestic violence is a growing national problem requiring focused assistance from the public and private sectors.

Please support the local YWCA. We are always in need of donations of money and personal items such as, pillows, blankets, toiletries, Cell Phones and Accessories, baby items, canned food and dry goods, and so much more. With Winter on it's way, we definetly need warm blankets, scarves, mittens, gloves, warm coats, comforters, warm bed sheets.
Donations can be dropped at the YWCA Monday through Friday between 8 and 5.

For more information call: 574-233-9491

A Great Place to Shop

I found a great place to shop while searching the internet. You should check it out. You can buy right from this site. You just scroll through and see if there is anything you want and then click on and it brings you right to that page.

I'm a Great Cousin!

When your Niece has a baby, you are a Great Aunt....so when your cousin has a baby, does that make you a Great Cousin. Hmm? Thoughts to ponder.

My cousin and his wife just found they are pregnant. This is so exciting. This will be first Second Cousin!!!

Wake Up Parents!

I found a website from Corey's blog: http://parentsareclueless.com/

I read some of the confessions on the site and some just made me sad, but I can't say I was surprised.

"I watched you Mom, that's why I lost my virginity at 14 and have added quite a few guys to that list since then. Now that I am an adult, I see that I don't want to be anything like you, but more like Jesus. I wish that you would have made a bigger deal out of Jesus than your boyfriends."

"I've been down at college for two-and-a-half years and my mom still brags to people that I don't party. I do... a lot."

"Dad, i love you, but for once could you tell me that i messed up with out yelling at me and making me feel like a complete idiot?"

"Just please be honest with me! I need to know what "mistakes" you made in your past and I need to see the consequences that came with them if you don't want me to make the same mistakes."

"my parents would die if they knew i keep my weed in the cieling of their bedroom."

"I wonder if you would love me if you saw my report card before I changed the grades."

There are a few things that I have learned doing Middle School ministry for the last 8 years.
Students may not listen to a thing you say, but they are watching everything you do. Lead by example! Where goes the leaders, so goes the students.- Judy Gregory

We're Moving!

We have been on the waiting list for a place since April and we finally got a place. I can't wait. We are going to right down the street from work now so it should save us alot of money on gas. Steve and I are also thinking about riding our bikes to work so we will be getting excersize too.

We get to look at the apartment this week and tell them if we are interested and put down the deposit. The only downside is that we have to bring our own appliances. We got a Fridge from my Aunt and maybe a Washer and dryer from her too. We need a Stove though.

I'm excited about this because we are on our way to being debt free. On top of having lower rent now, I am taken on a second job. It's a part time temp job with 1st Source. I found out about the job though someone from GCC.

Domestic Violence Awareness

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Last year alone, there were nearly 5 million reported cases of domestic violence in this country.

October 14 -20, 2007 is the YWCA Week Without Violence.

Please wear a purple ribbon, tie one on your car antennas, and encourage your family, friends, co-workers and neighbors to participate in this awareness campaign by doing the same.

Space Bags

This weekend, Steve and I are going to be spending most of the time cleaning and packing. You wouldn't think that would be fun, but it is. We are going through all our stuff and deciding what to get rid of, what to keep, and packing things away in boxes.

We got these space bag things. They are the coolest things. I'm sure you have seen the TV commercials for them. They are the bags that you fill full of stuff then stuck the air out and the bag gets really small. They actually really work and they are fun to use. They are not cheap but they are reusable and they should make moving easier. I'm sure we will get our money's worth out of them.

We haven't heard that we have an apartment yet, but we are still 2nd on the waiting list so it could be anytime. You don't realize how much stuff you have until you have to move it.

What will you do today?

I have been thinking and processing my role in Oasis this year for a few weeks now. I want to take my students deeper than I did last year. Last year I got to my know my girls and they got to know eachother. This year, I want to draw them in to who Jesus really is. No more surface relationships. No more casual Christianity.

Last week Corey knocked it out of the park. He said, "The abilities we are given are gifts from God, but we do with those gifts are our gift back to him." How many times have I seen an opportunity to serve and not done it because I was afraid of what people would think? How many times have I seen someone hurting or in need and just walked by?

What can I do today to serve someone else?

Update

Do you ever feel like your life is spinning out of control? I realize I haven't written on my blog in awhile. Mostly that is because I have been so busy. I just feel like screaming. I'm hoping that everything gets a little less overwhelming soon. I feel like I'm running 100 miles an hour but I'm not going anywhere. I need a vacation or at least some downtime. I don't think that will be for awhile though. This weekend I have to clean and pack up our apartment because we might be moving into Southmore real soon.

Help my Friend's Daughter win Chick-Fil-A

Click on this link and vote for this picture:
http://www.showusthecow.com/photos.php?view=browse&tag=KARIANA

Forward this to whoever you think will vote for this picture.

Have you heard about the Chick-Fil-A photo contest? Igot a kids meal the other day because I wasnt veryhungry and they are having a contest. I sent in aphoto to be approved under Kariana's name because Iknow she really like Chick-Fil-A and you had to beunder 10 to enter. I attached the photo that i sent.

This is what the prizes are:Semi-finalists If your photo is chosen in the Top 40, you'll receive:
• a "Be Our Guest Card", good for one (1) FREE Kid'sMeal! • a special Chick-fil-A T-shirt, a plush cow and aclock!
Finalists If your photo is chosen in the Top 10, you'll receive:
• a whole YEAR of FREE Chick-fil-A food (52 coupons,each valid for one Kid's Meal)! • a Chick-fil-A© Nuggets tray delivered for a party atyour school! • a special Chick-fil-A T-shirt, a plush cow and aclock!

If your photo is chosen as the GRAND PRIZE WINNER,you'll receive:
• a special Chick-fil-A prize package, including adigital camera and a $1,000 U.S. Series EE Savings Bond!
• a whole YEAR of FREE Chick-fil-A food (52 coupons,each valid for one Kid's Meal)!
• a Chick-fil-A© Nuggets tray delivered for a party atyour school!
• a special Chick-fil-A T-shirt, a plush cow and aclock!

Congratulations to Us!

The Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence is intended to celebrate, reward and encourage outstanding achievement in the charitable sector. Each year, this $100,000 endowment challenge grant will be awarded competitively to a St. Joseph County nonprofit demonstrating superior leadership, management, and programming.

The YWCA applied for this award again this year. Last year the YWCA received First Runner UP. The First Runner Up receives a 10,000 grant. This year we won. Congratulations to the YWCA for receiving the 2008 Leighton Award for Non-Profit Excellence. We will not only receive the 100,000 endowment, but also a 10,000 grant that we can use immediately.

South Bend Tribune Article

There was a story in the South Bend Tribune today and a little friend of mine was quoted.

********************************************************************

P-H-M pilot shows signs of progress, instructors say

YaSHEKIA SMALLS
Tribune Staff Writer

WAKARUSA —
The “fat cat” appears to be the popular spot here in Stacy Marker’s kindergarten classroom at Madison Elementary School.It’s the foam-filled cushion with green eyes that draws 5-year-old Alisia Mendoza, who’s earned the chance to rest on the fluffy feline and learn about sharks after sketching a zebra and reading four simple words to her teacher.“I see a zebra.” Alisia probably wouldn’t have had time to draw so many stripes on that zebra in last year’s half-day kindergarten program, which served more than 700 students. But this fall, she’s one of about 80 students who were chosen by lottery at Meadow’s Edge, Elm Road and Walt Disney elementary schools to be in a full-day kindergarten pilot.

That’s at least four more hours each day to learn science and math; to engage in music, art and other “specials” outside the classroom; to do time-consuming drawing projects; to form peer relationships; and to actually read, teachers say.“I think it’s great that they can put the words together and make sentences (in the first few days of school),” said Marker, who taught first grade last year and taught half-day kindergarten for more than two years, transferring to Madison from Meadow’s Edge this fall. Reading materials are meant for full-day kindergarten setups, so at least her class won’t struggle to fit it all in this year, Marker said.“By the time the day’s over, I’ve still got a stack of things on my desk,” Marker said. “How did we not get through all of this?”The biggest struggle for students, however, is staying awake and attentive — especially for those who did not attend preschool and aren’t used to sitting in a seat all day, Marker said. Her students have 20 minutes of recess, followed by 40 minutes of lunch, and then it’s back to the classroom.

Five-year-old Kariana Radabaugh knows how to prepare for the long day: She eats strawberries, cereal and toast for breakfast, she says with a smile while showing off her strawberry red dress for picture day. The thrills of crafts, gym and recess keep her awake during the day, she explains. But what does she like the most about the day?“I like to read books on the ‘fat cat,’ ” she says.

Down the hall, 5-year-old Micah Phelps reads an “I am special” morning message before his peers give him a “snap, crackle and pop” — a snap, roll of the neck and a clap. After lunch, Julie Unrue allows her students to rest on their bellies and enjoy time to physically and mentally regroup as she reads aloud to them from a chapter book. “Even the third-graders need that,” said Unrue, who taught half-day kindergarten and third-graders in a job-share at Madison last year. “Just like adults, you need that time from being in the same place, being actively engaged.”Unrue’s goal is to make sure her kids remain kids — even in the thick of high state and national academic standards, she said. Kindergartners here will take the MAP standardized test for the first time this year, she said, and she anticipates that results from full-day students will likely be different from those of half-day students.Unrue collaborates with Marker and full-day kindergarten teacher Melissa Phelps, who serves 62 students at Madison. About two-thirds are bused to and from Elm Road and Meadow’s Edge, while Kim Grunawalt teaches an additional 20 full-day kindergarten students at Walt Disney. Transportation is now both ways for full-day kindergartners, Madison Principal Lisa Soto Kile said.Officials are striving to implement full-day kindergarten throughout the district in the next few years. This year, funding came from the state and the district’s general fund, with schools statewide slated to receive $665 per student. But P-H-M is exploring how it can afford the program in the future.“More parents are working outside the home,” Kile said. “More students are participating in the preschool experience. ... The students are ready for it, and the parents are asking for it.”

Staff writer YaShekia Smalls:yassmalls@sbtinfo.com(574) 235-6555

Another Busy Weekend

It was another busy weekend. It was fun though. Saturday, my friends Shere, Tabby, and I with our husbands went to Hana Jori for dinner. It was a good time. I hadn't eaten there since High school and Steve had never been there. My favorite thing about the restaurant is that they make the food right in front of you. It feels like you have a front seat to Iron Chef. We almost got our eyebrows signed a few times. It was great. The food is expensive but it is so worth it for the presentation. After dinner, we went to a new desert place on Hickory called Indulgence. It was SOHO good.
Shere said that we should do that more often and I totally agree.

Sunday after church, I went and worked out for a about an hour. Damian called and said he was going to be in town. We sold Steve's twin bed this weekend. We used the extra money we made to go out to Red Lobster with Damian and some other friends.

It was a good reminiscing weekend. Shere, Tabby, and I have been good friends since Middle School, so it was fun to get together and chat about the last 10+ years. On Sunday, Stacy and Travis were there and we had some fun conversations about old friends, Middle School, Lifeline, and such. Stacy and I go back to Elementary school and that's long time.

I Hit a Milestone: 100,000

My beloved car now has 100,000 miles on it. It's a 2001 Black Ford Focus. I was sitting here thinking of all the exciting things my car has seen in it's life. I bought it in September 2004 so I dont know what it was doing before that.

Since I've had the car, it's:

• Been hit by a deer
• Rear ended in a snow storm
• Taken countless trips from Fazoli's to Home
• Drove me to Oasis every Wednesday night
• Drove around South Bend for GCC's food drops
• Drove myself and student's around to various Oasis events
• Been to Wisconsin many times to visit family
• Been driven by Damian around South Bend and Chicago when he borrowed it
• Gone to various places in Ohio, including Toledo, Cincinnati area, Lima, and others.
• Taken many trips to Wakarusa and back to Mishawaka
• Helped Steve move his stuff to my apartment after we got married
• Driven to YWCA and back home
• Moved me into and out of Bethel with my stuff packed in it several times
• Drove down to Indy to see Steve's brother become an Officer in the Army
• Kept Kariana safe in her car seat on trips to the park
• Drove 4000 miles in ten days on a road trip Steve and I took a few summers ago. Steve and I drove from here to Illinios, then to Tulsa, Oklahoma, then to Arlington, TX, then to the Grand Canyon, then to Alpine, AR, back to Tulsa, OK, then back home.
• and so much more
  

I think it has had a good long life. I only hope that it has a much longer life. I gave it a nice cleaning for the occasion. I vacuumed it out and made it look really nice. Steve and I are only down to one car right now, so I hope there are many many more years of life in my Ford Focus.

What a Busy Weekend!

This weekend started at 6:30 on Saturday morning. Steve's brother, Kenny, graduated from being a Staff Sargeant in the army to being a Warrant officer. There was a graduation ceremony at 10:30 in Indy. Steve and I had to leave our apartment at about 6:30 to get there in time. After the ceremony, Kenny, his wife, their daughter, Steve's dad and step-mom, Steve and I went out to lunch at Fridays.

We started to drive home and arrived back in Mishawaka around 6. We watched some 24 episodes. I love that show. Steve and I have been watching 24 every Monday since Season 3 and now we are renting Seasons 1 & 2 to watch what we missed. It's pretty fun. We ate dinner at about 10 then went to bed shortly after that.

Sunday, started with church at Gospel Center at 10:30. My mentor and friend, Judy, is in now from Atlanta this weekend. Jeanne Mayo is doing an event in Indy this week so Judy got to take a trip up to Mishawaka on the way. Today is her birthday so I must add a HAPPY BIRTHDAY JUDY! A bunch of Oasis leaders planned a cook-out for Judy on Sunday afternoon. So after church we huried home to make a desert to bring to the cookout and then headed over the celebration. There was alot of the people in the McFarland's house. It was a good time.

My best friend, Liz and her husband Ben we were also in town this weekend from Tulsa. Ben's family was having a family get-together this weekend so Ben's mom paid to have them flown here. Steve and I got to see them on the way home from the cookout. It was good to see them.
After we got home, I went grocery shopping and then we watched some more 24, ate dinner, then went to sleep.
I'm pretty tired today, but it was a good weekend.

• The YWCA run, jane, run is a multi-athletic event for women, organized by women to benefit women and children in our community. Organizations, families, mothers and daughters, or sisters are encouraged to register their team to compete in the 5K or 10K Trail Run, or the 5K Walk.The YWCA of St. Joseph County provides life-changing services to women and their families.
  
  Your participation supports the following YWCA programs:
  
  DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SERVICES - Support for women and their children escaping abusive environments.
  
  CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY TREATMENT PROGRAM - Treatment, housing, aftercare, child care and support for dependent children.
  
  HOUSING, COUNSELING, INDEPENDENT LIVING SKILLS, AND SUPPORT SERVICES- For women and their families who are working toward self-sufficiency.
  
  JOB TRAINING - To become a certified food handler.
  
  PERMANENT HOUSING AND SUPPORT SERVICES - For women who are chronically, mentally, developmentally, or physically disabled.
  
  BRIDGES OUT OF POVERTY - Designed to help individuals understand the mental models of generational poverty, along with the mental models of the middle and upper classes. For individuals from generational poverty learning these "mental models" will assist them in being sucessful in middle class employment and educational settings.
  
  SEXUAL ASSAULT RECOVERY - Group and individual sexual assault therapy in both English and Spanish to women who have suffered recent or past sexual assault.
  
  

Waiting and wondering...

I'm waiting to see what God is going to do next. About a month ago, Steve and I had our hours cut at work. The budget for the next few months are going to be tight. It is a bit disapointing to us because we had so many things that we wanted to do. Our first goal is to be debt-free then after that the plan is to move to Texas. It seems like everything is going to pushed back a little bit. It's really stressful because I dont know what's going to happen next. Steve and I both looking for little ways to make extra money. We are trying to make extra money online with some of the "pay to read email" places and have found some that really work. We earned last month a $50 gift card to Walmart which helped us tremendously with our grocery bill. Steve is also trying to find a second part-time job. Nothing major, just something that he enjoys that will bring in a few extra bucks each month. We toyed with the idea of having a garage sale but havent got the plan in the works yet. We might sell Steve's old bed and a few other things. Steve's car finally died it's last death so he is going to junk it. Hopefully, the junk yard will pay us a good amount for it.

I see God working in all of it but I still wish life wasnt so hard. Sometimes it feels like whenever life is going well something goes wrong. Please keep us in your prayers as we try and make it through this chapter of our life.

A good weekend

Yesterday was a pretty long day. Steve and I started the day getting up early (about 10 which is early for a Saturday) and decided to go on a bike ride. We ended up riding around Mishawaka for almost two hours. I wasn't sure I was going to make it home at a few points. We both made it home though. Saturday night we invited some friends of ours that just married over for dinner.
Steve made beef brisket, baked potatoes, corn, and some fresh bread. It was some good times. After dinner the four of went to see Transformers at Showplace 16. The guys picked the movie. It was an alright movie. I was a bit disapointed. They could have made it alot better, I think. I never really got into Transformers as a kid so I'm sure I missed some things I was already suppossed to know. I didnt think they did a very good job defining the characters of the robots. The did a really good job defining the characters of the humans though. Overall, I give the movie a 6 out of 10.

Sunday after church, I went to Fitness USA for the first time in awhile. I'm hoping that since I already have a membership there I can use it instead of going to Physical Therapy. I hope it works. I didnt go for very long. I didnt want to over do it the first time. Then it was off Hacienda to meet with my sister and some friends to celebrate our friend Greg's 21st birthday. He turns 21 next week. We had the waitresses sing to him with the hat and everything. It was much fun. The rest of Sunday is going to be a lazy relaxing day.

Making Extra Money!

Anybody that wants to make some extra money, should try this. All you do is read emails and complete surveys and you get money. It's really easy and it really works. Just click the link above and sign up. It's easy and completely free.

School Supplies Needed!

The YWCA is looking for donations of school supplies and backpacks for the new school year. Many of the mothers come to the YWCA with their kids with nothing. Wouldn't it be great if we could provide the kids at the YWCA new school supplies for the year.
The following items are needed:

• Backpacks


• Crayons


• Pens/Pencils


• Rulers


• Notebooks


• Folders


• Binders


• Notebook Paper


• Calculators


• and much more

The YWCA has students ranging from Preschool to Highschool aged.If you need more information, Call the YWCA at 233-9491.
Ellen Woodruff, Children's Service Manager: ewoodruff@ywcasjc.org

I'm glad God is in control

I'm so glad that God is in control and I'm not or I would be going crazy right now. Steve and I have been a tight budget the last few months because rent where we live is really high. We are on a waiting list at another place right now and we are hoping to get in their in a few months. This week the YWCA found out that it is losing almost 300,000 in federal and state grant funding for the next fiscal year which started July 1st. Due the lower funding, the YWCA had to cut some positions completely and cut hours for others. Luckily, Steve and I only got our hours cut but our benefits arent affected. Which is good because I cant afford for us to lose insurance, especially if I want to do the physical therapy for my shoulder. Steve is going to be going down to only 4 days. This is going to cut a few hundred dollars from our monthly budget. Please pray for us as we try to figure out where the money is going to come from. Steve is thinking about getting a part time job or doing some on the side handy-man work to make some extra money.

I know I should feel down and discouraged, but I feel relaxed about this. I trust that God is in control. I can see God all over it. God helped us keep our jobs and only get hours cut and He is helping get money from other places. Steve and I have been messing around with some "pay to read email" websites and we found some that really work. Last week, I received a $50 gift card from Walmart and $25 gift card for Walgreens. That helped us tremendously with groceries. It may be a few really long months for us until we get into the new places, and maybe a little after that.

Our Wedding Pictures!

Pre-Wedding Pictures

Ceremony Pictures/Formals

Reception Pictures

Click on the pictures above to see the pictures. We finally got our wedding pictures from Loretta. She did a great job. I really love them. I am putting them online because I know alot of people wanted to see them. You can download or order prints right from the website they are on.

I'm Normal

I know. I was just as surprised as you are. I have been having these horrible headaches since about Sunday night. I hurt my should my senior year of highschool when I was in the car accident but never did anything about it. I tried a chiropractor but it was too expensive. I have tried various exercises and stretches but nothing seemed to realy work. Sometimes the pain seemed to go away for a little while but then it would come back.

Since Sunday, the pain had gone from my shoulder into my head. It was horrible pain. I was having trouble working. The only thing i could do to help the pain was to lay down. Yesterday during lunch, Steve and I went to Medpoint because the pain was so bad. The took some X-Rays of my shoulder, back, and neck. The doctor everything looked fine in my bones except my neck seemed to be too straight. He is going to wait until the Radiologist's report before making the final judgement though. He said he would guess that the problem is in my muscles. The muscles may even be so tight that they are causing the neck problems. I might have to start going to physical therapy. I'm so glad that we have insurance now or I would have no idea how we were going to pay for this.
We got me a new chair for work that has a massager in it. It is amazing. It's not a top of the line massager. It just mostly vibrates but its still cool. Maybe it will help loosen up my muscles so i dont have to go to physical therapy.

Happy Birthday to Me!

Monday was 26th birthday.
On Saturday, weekend Steve and Damian throw me a "Surprise" birthday party at our apartment. It was a good time. Steve made some chicken and we ate some cake. Afterwards, Damian, Steve, the Bones, my sister, and I went to see the movie Fantastic Four. The movie was pretty good. I wasnt sure what i would think of it since I dont really like comic books movies usually, but it was good. Then we went to the Steak N Shake in South Bend for some fun hang out time. We didnt leave Steak N Shake til almost 2. I was pretty tired when I got home. Shere came over with her girls to my apartment but she didnt come to movie with us. Ill have to try and find some time to hang out with just her later in the week.

Sunday, we got up for church at Gospel Center this week. After church, we just went home and relaxed. My parents went out of town for the weekend but when they got home Steve and I went to my parents to have Father's Day dinner. Steve and I did some grocery shopping to on Sunday.

Monday we both had to work. I didnt take my birthday off work this year. After work, Steve and I got dressed up and he took me out to The Emporium. The food was really good. It wasn't as expensive as I thought is was going to be. I was actually a little disapointed. I was expecting it to be more elegant than it was. Oh well, it was a once in a lifetime thing. It was a good relaxing birthday overall.

Busy...Busy...Busy

Apartment hunting is alot of work. Steve and I are trying to find a another apartment or house to rent. Autumn Lakes is just too expensive. It was fine when i was living with my sister because I only had to pay half of the rent but now the whole amount is coming out of just mine and Steve's budget so it's harder. We are trying to find something before the end of the month so we dont have to pay for another month at Autumn Lakes. Our budget will be very happy when we move.

It feels like life is flying by really fast lately. I'm hoping that life slows time soon. I just need time to relax. Our current apartment is almost all organized. Steve is still moving in some of his stuff. Some of the bigger things he is going to leave where they are until we move again. It's been an adventure.

Oasis went to Cedar Point. I hope they had a good trip. It is beautiful here. I hope it's nice in Ohio too.

Oasis Graduation!

Final Count: 1066!

No that is not a typo above, we really had more than 1000 people at Oasis last night. It was an amazing night. I got there at about 5:30 and ran back to the cafe. They was already a huge line formed since they cafe actually opened at 4:30. Carole and Wendy were working hard so I jumped in to help. We had a non-stop line of students until about 6:40 when the students went outside for the annual graduation picture.

Judy gave a great message last night. She encouraged the students to take leaps of faith. What is the next leap of faith you are going to take? She talked to students about the 3 big leaps of faith she has taken starting with when she gave her life to Christ, then when she came on staff at Granger. The last leap of she is taking is joining Jeanne Mayo in Atlanta. She told the students last night what she told all the leaders on Tuesday night. She is leaving Granger to join her mentor and hero, Jeanne Mayo, in Atlanta. There was an extreme quiet in the room last night when told everyone.

I'm excited for her. I hate to see her go but it sounds like this is something that she will really enjoy doing. Jeanne Mayo has been her hero and mentor for a few years now. A few weeks ago Jeanne asked Judy if she would be willing to join her in the mentorship of other youth pastors, helping lead the Mastors Commission, and doing some things with Jeanne in Atlanta. She is going to leave a huge hole in the leadership team at Granger, but i am more than confident that Judy has raised up some amazing leaders that will keep this ministry going.

The graduation was a success. After we cleaned up the cafe a bunch of leaders and a few students went to Steak N Shake for some relaxing and hang out time. I didn't leave until almost midnight. I should have left earlier but I didnt. I'm so tired today. I need to take a big nap later.

Shere's Girls :)

Shere's Girls

My best friend came over to my apartment with her girls last week. I have to share them with you because they are adorable. I love these girls. :)

Oasis 2006-2007 School Year

Wow! What a year it has been? This year seemed to be a little over shadowed by my engagement and marriage but Oasis is still a huge part of my life. One of my greatest desires in my life is to be a positive role for my students. My group has changed a bit throughout the year. A few students have moved away or stopped coming and some have joined us new within the year, but there have been a few faithful that have been there every Wednesday, or really close to it, the whole year. These girls are special and I want them to succeed to life.

Steve and I started doing a devotional on wisdom after we got married. We read a proverb every day and a little note about what we read. Today's reading got me thinking about my students. We read proverbs 2. Proverbs 2:9-10 says "You will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will find the right way to go. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy." Our quote of the day is: Training in wisdom is life preparation.

God is the ultimate teacher and he wants us to learn as much as we can in our lives. Good teachers and leaders know that someday their students will leave the nest and fly on their own. Our goal is to teach them as best we can so when they get out on their own they will be able to survive on their own. My desire for my students is that they look back on the last year and see it as a year of growth. I hope they made at least one new friend, they learned valuable wisdom, and most of all they took a step towards Jesus. Do they know Jesus a little more personally did they did a year ago?
I wish I could have some assurance that they will make the right choices, but God gave us freewill so they will make their choices. This world is getting tough to be a Christian in, but with the wisdom they have learned this year I believe they will overcome.

As I reflect on the last year, I pray for my girls that they remain strong and avoid the temptations that are so ready to attack them. There is nothing more beautiful than a girl that lives with integrity.
As Graduation comes close, I want them to know that they can count on my even in the years to come. I don't stop being there leader on Graduation day. I am their leader for the rest of their life if they need me.

180 Oasis Reception

Oasis Reception 2007

It has been a month since I posted anything on here. I guess I've been a little busy. Ill try to catch everyone up with pictures. On Sunday, April 29th, I opened my apartment to my 180 small group for a small "wedding reception" since they werent going to be at the actual reception. I hope they had a good time.

Honeymoon in San Diego: May 5th - May 11th

Honeymoon in San Diego

Our Honeymoon started on Saturday night at a Bed and Breakfast in Michigan. We flew into San Diego on Monday morning.

Our Honeymoon was wonderful. It was absolutely beautiful. Neither one of has ever been to California so we chose San Diego for our vacation. It was a very relaxing vacation too. We originally didnt get a Ocean View room but when we got to the hotel they had upgraded us to an Ocean View room for free. We spent most of the days walking up and down the beach. There was a boardwalk along the beach with little shops and resturants. We did some jumping in the waves too. We water felt really nice. It wasn't really that cold. The weather was warm and sunny the whole week we were there. Steve and I ate Calimari for the first time at one of the beach resturants. It was actually good. I never would have guessed that it was going to be good.

Thursday, we drove around the city and stopped at the Historic District of San Diego. It celebrated the Mexican history of the city. We ate at the best Mexican resturant I have ever been too. The food was great.

I hope you enjoy the pictures. The last night I watched the Sun Set over the Pacific Ocean. The pictures were taken for our Hotel balcony.

Bridal Shower: Sunday, April 22, 2007

My sister and my best friend, Shere throw me a Bridal Shower at my parent's house last Sunday. It was some good times. I'm not used to being the center of attention. It was fun to see a bunch of my friends hanging out together. Shere brought her girls and so did Carole, so Kariana got to make some new friends. We had a cookout lunch with some hamburgers and hotdogs and such. Shere and Erin had everybody play some games then I opened presents. My sister thought it would be fun if I wore a string on head as a tiara. My Grandma made us a handmade blanket. The blanket is really soft. It was a beautiful day to be outside. I went on a short walk around the block with Kariana after most of the guests had left. I hope my wedding day is as nice as it was Sunday.
Here are some fun pictures. It was a good time.

Bridal Shower

Oasis Throughout the Years

Oasis: Kickoff 99	2000 - 2001 School Year	2001 - 2002 School Year
2002 - 2003 School Year	2003 - 2004 School Year	2004 - 2005 School Year

My Hero and Mentor: Judy Gregory

I have been attending Granger Community Church since April 1997. I was a sophomore in high school. It was a tough year in my world. I have been a Christian my whole life but I still felt there was something missing in my life. I had no real purpose in life and felt like if I disapearred no one would really care or come looking for me. A few of my friends invited me to a concert at Lifeline (our high school ministry) and I immediately knew there was something different about the people there. There was a sense of community that I had never felt before. I was surprised at how many people I already knew that were there. That was 10 years ago. I have grown and changed alot since that first night. I can't even begin to thank everything that helped bring me to where I am today.
I want to focus my attention on just one: My mentor and hero, Judy Gregory. She reached 10 years on staff of GCC this week, with several more before that. She is the Middle School pastor at GCC. I have been doing ministry along aside her, either as a student or a leader for almost 10 years and I would not change a thing. This year marks my 7th school year as a middle school leader and I was a Lifeline student for 2 1/2. Together, we've done seven mission trips, 8 Acquire the Fires, seven 30 Hour Famines, 5 New Years Eve Bashes, and so much more, either as a student or a leader.

Her love and committment to her students inspire me to a better leader. She is the ultimate encourager. Whenever I am feeling down and feel like I'm not really making a difference with my students, I can count on her to encourage me. Ministry is who she is. I can't imagine anyone else doing her job. She builds her life into her leaders, training them to be everything God wants them to be. She searches and finds the talent in you that you didnt know you had. I am a better leader today because of her leadership. I feel honored that she is going marry me and my fiance in two weeks. I look forward to 10 more years of ministry, even if I have to do them from afar.

Helping Middle School Students Take Their Next Step Towards Christ...Together!

Wednesday!

I was sick this week from Sunday to Thursday morning. I dont think the stress of having to drive in tons of snow Wednesday helped much. I'm so glad that is gone. I have been trying to catch up on my sleep and get less stressed. Nurse Wendy told me I'm not allowed to be sick at my wedding. She is so awesome. I am so glad she is my co-leader this year.

This Wednesday was Steve's birthday but we celebrated it on Tuesday because I have Oasis on Wednesday. I felt horrible all day at work on Wednesday so I decided that I wouldnt make it through Oasis. I believe this is the first Oasis I have missed during the school year since I began doing Oasis in the fall of 2000. I haven't seen my girls in 2 weeks since last week was Spring break. I miss them tons. I hope they had a great night.

Here are this weeks questions:
1. What are some words that you would use to describe Jesus?
How is He like you and not like you?

2. Have a student look up and read Galatians 5:22-23:

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

Did you use any of the words in this passage to described yourself?
Did you use any of these words to describe Jesus?

3. If you had to pick the one you're the strongest in of the nine (love, joy, peace.), which would you choose? If you had to pick the one you're weakest at out of the nine, which one would it be? Why?

4. These are words that will describe us as we become more and more like Christ. But, let's just say that they don't very well right now. What could someone do to get better in one or all of these areas?

5. Have a student look up and read Romans 12:2:

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.

One way we can get better is by renewing our minds. What do you think that means and how would you do that? What do you see in this world that Paul is warning us not to do or be like?

6. What is one thing mentioned that you could do to renew your mind that you could practice at school tomorrow?

How do you see yourself in 5 years, 10 years, 20 years? I know that seems like a really long time from now but you are starting your foundation now. Things you are doing now can and will effect your life in the future, either for the good or not. You have a choice to decide today what you stand for. What will define your life?

Easter 2007

I'm dreaming of a White Easter....Huh?...What? Don't you mean White Christmas? No, I case you didnt know it actually snowed here on Easter. I was talking to my best friend's dad last night and he said it snowed there on Easter too. He lives in Dallas, TX. He said it got down to 32 degreess last week. That is just crazy to me. Hopefully, it will warm up soon.

I spent Easter relaxing around Mishawaka. Steve and I went to Granger for church. I have been goin gto Granger CC for almost a decade and this was my first Easter service. Usually, I go out of town for Easter. It was an interesting experience. Third service was really packed.

After church, we took a nap because I wasn't feeling good and was tired. Steve worked on his budget while I napped and he cleaned my apartment a little. We are still working on making my apartment look nice since my sister moved out. We are starting to combine all of our stuff. He moved most of his kitchen stuff into my apartment. We put the stuff we think we are going use in the cabinet and packed the othe stuff away. You don't realize how much stuff you have until you have to pack it. Between the two of us, we have alot of stuff. We are planning to have a garage sale this summer after we get married so we can downsize a little in the kitchen area.

How much are you worth?

Not even a sparrow, worth only half a penny, can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to him than a whole flock of sparrows.
(Matthew 10:29-31)

How many times are we 'down in the dumps' and feeling pretty worthless because of circumstances beyond our control? Life can sometimes be unbeatable, but other times it gives us a 'beatdown'. Perhaps this week you know exactly what I mean. Good thing our worth isn't based on our circumstances or behavior, if it were I would have zero hope.

Check out this story and see if speaks to your heart.

A well-known speaker started off his seminar by holding up a $20 bill. In the room of 200, he asked, "Who would like this $20 bill?"

Hands started going up.

He said, "I am going to give this $20 to one of you but first let me do this."

He proceeded to crumple the dollar bill up. He then asked, "Who still wants it?" Still the hands were up in the air.

"Well," he replied, "What if I do this?" And he dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now all crumpled and dirty.

"Now who still wants it?" Still the hands went into the air.

"My friends, you have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value. It was still worth $20.

Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We feel as though we are worthless. But no matter what has happened or what will happen, you will never lose your value in God's eyes. To Him, dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased, you are still priceless to Him. Psalm 17:8 states that God will keep us 'as the apple of His eye.'"

The worth of our lives come not in what we do or who we are, but by WHOSE WE ARE!
(courtesy: Mikey's Funnies)

Questions:

• Who or what determines how good you feel about yourself?


• Have you 'checked in' with God lately with your issues and problems? Why or why not?


• What is one way you could show your thankfulness to God for His love this week?

Moving Day For My Sister!

Yesterday was a busy day. I spent most of it cleaning. I was waiting for Steve to come over after he finished working on his car. He is still trying to fix it. Church was great. Rob always has a way to say exactly what you need being hearing right then. I started my cleaning yesterday in the kitchen. I started some dishes then detailed cleaned the fridge. I took out all the food and cleaned all the shelves with bleach to make them really shiny. Then I put all the food back in.

My sister moved out of my apartment yesterday. She is moving out a month earlier than we had planned so it is going to put an extra strain on my budget. That's ok, though, I guess. I will work something out. We had fun moving all of her stuff out and back to my parents house. She is moving back there until she can find somewhere else to live and a roommate to live with.

Afterwards, Steve and I went back to my apartment and cleaned a little. I washed all the rest of the dishes that were in the sink, had maintenance fix the dishwasher, and moved some furniture around. Steve moved the futon that was in the living room to the 'spare bed room', formally known as Erin's room. He moved the TV in there too, so now we have a little TV room. Tonight, we will probably work on cleaning the living room before we watch 24. It wouldnt be Monday without 24. I still have to pack up most of my stuff. I still have time though.

We are still looking for a house to rent for after we get married. We have had a few prospects come to our attention. We just have to sit down and make a decision. It is going to be a busy month. We have most of the big details done. Now it's just getting the final details on everything done. Only 5 more weeks left! :)

Wedding Planning: Only 36 days left!

Doesn't that look peaceful. Steve and I booked our honeymoon this weekend. I am so glad that is finished. It takes a huge load of stress off knowing that that is planned. We bought the plan tickets, rented the car, and booked the room. We are going to California just South of San Diego. From the pictures on the website it looks really nice. We are going to be right on the beach of the Pacific Ocean. I will take tons of pictures, don't worry. I bet it is going to gorgegous. Please pray that we have great weather for the weekend of the wedding and for the week after. Also please pray for safe travels since I really don't like to fly.

The only big things we have left are finalizing the reception, finishing my wedding ring, and getting a final count for the reception once we get all the RSVPs back (Hint Hint! for those that havent turned in yet. :) ). I'm sure we will think of things as the day gets closer. I still have to figure my hair and little details like that but those shouldnt take to much time. I have to work on cleaning and packing my room this weekend. I'm making a pile/box of garage sale and sell things so hopefully I can make a little extra money before I move. You don't realize how much stuff you have until you have to move it. Money is going to tight for the next few months, but I suppose thats what happens when you get married. Steve and I are putting ourselves on a strick budget so we can squeeze as much out of the next months incomes that we can.

Praise God!

It's almost all back. It has been a real nightmare trying to get all my money refunded back to me. Two of my banks/accounts have refunded me all the money that was taken. I'm just waiting for one more. I'm so happy because now I have the money I need to pay for my wedding ring, our honeymoon, etc. I had almost $2500 taken from 3 different banks. It has not been a fun experience. I am so thankful for Steve. Without him I dont know if I would have made it through. He was always there at every moment. He took time off work to go to BMV and the social security offices with me when i had to replace all those indentification cards. He came with me to all the banks when I had to tell them what happened and fill out all the paperwork. He went with me to the Police Department when I had to fill out the police report. He made a bunch of phone calls and all this time he is also making wedding plans so I could relax and don't have to worry about that too. He is an amazing man. I feel like I'm the luckiest girl in the world that I get to marry him.
This experience is almost over. Then it's on the next adventure. I know that God has been with me the whole time. Sometimes it's hard to see or hear from God when you are in the experience. I know that when it first started I was really stressed and didnt know why it was happening. I dont I'll ever have a reason but I didnt let it shake my faith. I just kept moving through the storm until God got me out on the other side.

Praise You in This Storm by Casting Crowns

And I'll praise you in this storm
and I will lift my hands
for You are who You are
no matter where I am
and every tear I've cried
You hold in your hand
You never left my side
and though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

Oasis Update: March 21, 2007

Oasis: March 21, 2007

The Gift series is over. I know I have said it before but I'm so proud of this students. They were went over and above to help the children at the YWCA and the animals at the Humane Society. We didnt have Eagles Nest time this week which made a few of my girls a little sad but we made it through. We had a celebration for the projects instead. Judy showed videos of what each group did and talked about each group. All of the students did a really great job on all the projects. Some Eagles Nests split up into a guys group and a girls group but we kept ours all together since we don't have many guys.

GCC is entering a new phase with this new building project. This is the first project that had the students directly involved in it and i think it went great. Hopefully, my students learned a little about what it means to serve and give of yourself. Ask yourself...How do you want to me remembered? I want to be remembered as someone who spent her life serving other people. I can't wait to see what lies around the corner. What new adventures are in store for me and my girls, and guys too of course.

Pampered Chef Bridal Shower

I had my first Bridal Shower yesterday. It was pretty fun. There were alot of my parents friends (they are friends of the family), my grandma, both of my sisters, and some of Steve's family. Three of his sister-in-laws and his mom came. His sisters each brought one of their kids. It was a party. I got to help the Pampered Chef lady cook. Yeah!

After the party, I drove down to Wakarusa and hung out with Steve for a little while. I made him dinner since he hadn't ate yet.

We have gotten a lot of RSVPs back so far. I'm starting to get really excited. It's only like 47 days away. I am so ready to be Mrs. Stephen Pitney.

Oasis: The Gift Series

My students never cease to amaze me. I am so proud of them. They really took ownership of this project. They took their time (about 3 weeks), their talent, and their resources to really bless the children of the YWCA. Oasis supplied $120 and they could do whatever they wanted with it. They decided to make some pillows and gift bags for the children staying at the YWCA and to donate some toys, blankets, etc to the animal shelter.

Here are some pictures of them in action. We are delivering the items to the YWCA this afternoon so I'll put up those pictures too.

Oasis: The Gift Project

Give your life with an attitude of generosity. It feels really good to help other people but it also blesses God's heart.

Matthew 25:40 (New International Version)
"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

I got my new drivers license today. It didnt take as long as I thought it would but it was still not fun. Especially since I have to go back the DMV after May and get a new one with my new last name. I'm waiting for life to settle down. Any idea when that will be?

Invitations went out this weekend so that is one less thing to do. We are going to work on planning the reception and finalizing the rehearsal dinner this week. Then it's honeymoon planning time. We have an idea of where we want to go but we havent pinned it down exactly yet.

It has been a really long couple of day. My purse was stolen was work sometime Wednesday and someone went crazy with all my debit cards. It has been pretty stressful trying to get my money. I'm not as concerned about finding our who did as I am getting my money back. The worst part is that my emergency fund and our honeymoon funds are gone. Hopefully I will be able to get them back before we leave.

Please pray for me and Steve as we try to get our stuff back together. My drivers license and my Social Security cards were in my purse, as well, so I get to do a bunch of paper work next week.

Today is going to spent at Cici's Pizza with my students and Steve and work tonight. Second Saturday was today but i wasnt able to go to it because Steve and I had marriage counseling but I'm meeting them for pizza.

Looking forward to things getting better...

Weekends...

They never seen long enough. This weekend I started back at Fazoli's just for some extra income. We weren't that busy all weekend. The extra money will be nice though. The goal is to be out of debt by the time I'm 30.
Wedding planning seems to be coming along quite nicely. Invitation will be going out this week then we can check that off the list of thing to do. That is going to feel great. Once the invitations are out the next task is getting the order of the cermony and the reception completely organized. We still have to finalize our wedding ring order and order them. Money seems to tight right now but not unmanagable. I am working on moving all my bank account over to one bank then he is going to transfer all his money in that same bank. So we will have our money all at one bank, instread of the current three.

Steve is still trying to fix his car. He is having trouble finding out what is wrong. Everytime he fixes something he finds another problems.

I spent today after church making purchases for our Eagles Nests project. I can't wait to see what kinds of things they put together.

Oasis Update

I am so exited about this current series at Oasis. We are a series called "The Gift". We are encourging the students to look beyond the walls of GCC and do something for somebody else. I am so proud of my students. They have come up with some really great ideas. We kicked off the projects last night. I can't wait to see what they come up with next week.