Remember that post long, long ago, I wrote down some silly phrases and sayings that get to me? Well, I said my mom used to say, "Home again home again jiggity jig." I couldn't remember the other one.
Well, thanks to my brother Jon's help, here it is: "...and all that jazz!" Now you can sleep easy! Apparently he thinks similarly to me on some things. Sometimes not...which reminds me of a story about "phrases or sayings".
Our family vacations were always to Grandma and Grandpa's house down in the catskills. We went for Thanksgiving and Christmas and of course, fair week. My mom likes to tell the story about when I was just a toddler without a huge vocabulary under my belt. I guess my brother Jon was not feeling so well on that trip. I was happy as could be. What makes me especially happy, even to this day? Those golden arches! haha McDonald's! Everytime we passed McDonald's, I recognized those arches and would yell, "French fries!" And, from what I hear, every time I said that, my brother lost his 'french fries' into ...something, over and over again on our trip. Oops! Eventually we made it home, though I don't know if it was super jiggity.
I went with my parents on their "date night" tonight to McDonalds. Just thought I'd share since I was talking about how it makes me happy. No french fries tonight though. They forgot to put them in the bag. Oh well.
I also want to say, even though those sayings made/make me cringe, I love my mom. Our relationship has grown a lot over the years. I was the only girl, with 3 older brothers. As a little girl, I would sit and color with my mom at the kitchen table in the mornings. We would eat english muffins as a snack and I would drink coffee with her. Well, ok, I had milk in a coffee cup! I admired her and wanted to be a mom and teacher just like her! I grew older and got my own taste in clothes, I was a little grungy tomboyish...not into the frills. I had a few teenage attitudes, more than I'm happy about. I think college was really a time I grew a lot closer to my mom. Freshman year was a difficult one for me on many levels and she was always there to talk on the phone when I needed it. Sometimes she even came and picked me up and we would go somewhere...just to get me away (yes, they do live super close to the college, but these were some hard times for me). She was and is an important prayer warrior for me and I really think she had a hunch about Matt before I did. And no, she does not even remember "paying me" to meet Matt (go to Bible Study), so I don't want to paint a negative picture that she bribes me. That was not characteristic of her, but I think something was happening in the woodwork behind the scenes, and a silly memory I cherish. Now, we spend a lot of time together, especially since Matt is gone (but not for long!!), and we even substitute in many of the same schools. She was the one who prayed for me and loved me before I was born (there were a couple scary moments), rocked me, sang to me, taught me about Jesus, nurtured me from the beginning, and I was the girl she didn't think she was having (after 3 boys, she just thought I was another one. Nope, no Andrew here). Even though she sometimes says silly things and all that jazz, I still love her!
I just want to add one more thing. When Matt and I met, as I wrote below, we met at church. That is so special to me. Growing up as a pastor's kid, we went through a lot of changes and for me, some were joyous times but there were also some heartbreaks and very difficult times for me from divisions etc. It just is so very special to me that God led my Matthew through the church door for me to meet the very first time. I don't believe that was an accident. I think it was a special touch added just by my Heavenly Prince.
*I love you Bubbs! It's almost June!!!
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Another Significant Day
1. Who is your man? Matthew ...Matt, Bubba, Man, etc.
2. How long have you been together? I got this wrong at our church shower...what exactly is together? We have so many "dates": We met May 22, 2005, he called me for the first time Sept 11, 2005, he came home and we spent time together every day starting Dec 14, 2005, we started courting Dec 23?, 2005, we were engaged May 20, 2006 and married Dec 16, 2006. (None of these dates were planned either, cool huh?)Umm, I guess for 2 1/2 years since we started courting. We've been married for almost a year and a half.
3. How long dated? Matt courted me for 5 months.
4. How old is your man? 27
5. Who eats more? He does
6. Who said “I love you” first? Matt did after he proposed and then I said it to him
7. Who is taller? He is by about 10 inches
8. Who sings better? He does
9. Who is smarter? I think he is, but we make a good team! :)
10. Whose temper is worse? In the car, me, when it comes to work, him.
11. Who does the laundry? At home, I usually do. I guess right now, we both do, on completely different sides of the world.
12. Who takes out the garbage? I do. Matt used to and will when he comes home ;)
13. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? It depends how we have our bed arranged or where it is in the hotel or barracks (...did I say that?) He sleeps closer to the door wherever that is. He's my protector!
14. Who pays the bills? I do with his money.
15. Who is better with the computer? Definitely Matt.
16. Who mows the lawn? Some guy the landlord pays.
17. Who cooks dinner? Right now, good question. Before, we often did it together, or he would or I would.
18. Who drives when you are together? Usually him, it's safer.
19. Who pays when you go out? Usually Matt.
20. Who is most stubborn? That may depend on the situation.
21. Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Probably Matt...sometimes I jokingly string it out and make "excuses"
22. Whose parents do you see the most? Mine
23. Who kissed who first? Matthew, you may kiss your bride...He did! It was kinda wet...hahahaha.
24. Who asked who out? I certainly didn't ask him, but I think I encouraged it
25. Who proposed? Matt did
26. Who is more sensitive? I am
27. Who has more friends? Most of ours are sort of the same ...I think we're about equal.
28. Who has more siblings? Me.
29. Who wears the pants in the family? He does, but again, I think we make a good team!
30. How did you meet? Well, 3 years ago today, we met at church.
Would you like to hear the story?
My mom tried several times to direct my attention to different guys. I think she was just excited for the time when I would meet "the one" and fall in love. I knew (well, hoped!) if there was a guy out there worthy of my love (haha), he would pursue me and sort of "do the work" to win me over. So, I wasn't one to go out of my way to talk with guys I didn't know. I am pretty old fashioned when it comes to relationships, and I certainly was not the flirty type. I never "dated" until Matt came along.
It was finals week of my junior year of college. Matt's older brother was attending our church and my mom heard a few things about his younger brother, Matt. She told me once that I should "check this guy out." I had seen a couple pictures of him and thought he was handsome. I also always had a respect for men willing to sacrifice all for our freedom, our country. However, I never dreamed, hoped, or thought I would marry a man in the military. This particular week, Mom had reason to think Matt would attend the Young Adult Bible Study with his brother because he was home on leave. I hadn't been a part of that study because I had classes on the night it met that semester. Since it was finals week, I didn't have class. I needed money for something so my mom gave me...I can't remember if it was $5 or $10 and told me I had to go to the Bible study then. I took the money but didn't go, very typical of me. She found out I didn't go and I had to pay her back! I think this part is so funny and one of my favorite memories. My mom has NEVER paid me to do something, I mean, beyond giving me money to pick up some things from the store for her...that I can remember. So, I think Sunday rolled around and Matt didn't join his brother in church, and we thought he was headed back to Hawaii where he was stationed. Don't you know, the next Sunday, I was getting ready for church and having a horrible time fixing my hair. My hair is the thickest, puffiest, frizziest mess you ever did see. I have yet to find a way I really like it. Anyway, I was getting frustrated, like usual, and I remember saying to myself, "Who cares? It's not like I have anybody to impress anyway!" God certainly has a sense of humor. Who walked into church that morning? My tall, handsome, strapping Matthew! I remember being so paranoid the whole sunday school and service thinking he had wind of my mom trying to set us up...and if his brother was in on it...ugh. Matt is convinced that I looked at him at least 5 times (apparently he was counting) during church, but I strongly disagree. There is NO way I would've made eye contact with him...I didn't and wouldn't do that. After church, I scrambled. I didn't want to be caught alone in case he did happen to come over. That's why I went and stood by my parents in the door way...haha. I did not want sole attention on me in any way. Yes, this may sound ridiculous. However, if you are familiar with our church, you know it is very small. I couldn't just blend in very easily. He and his brother went to the door, and Matt was introduced to my parents first. They gave him a big hug. Then we were introduced. He shook my hand. I think this is hysterical...so me. I am not "huggy" and my parents are. No way am I going to throw a big hug around some guy. His handshake was quite manly, and he looked me in the eye. That caught my attention and both of those things were secretly important to me for a "potential" husband. I noticed his shoes, his adidas running shoes....they were the same ones my dad had. I mentally noted that. (Later, I thought it would make a cute country song. The man who wore my daddy's shoes....or something like that, but I don't mean for that to sound creepy...anyway). I don't remember saying much more than my name. My mom and dad talked about me, and I hoped for the time to be over. He left phew. I didn't really think I'd see or hear from him again.
From Matt's perspective, he thought I was looking at him during church. When he first saw me, he guessed I was around 15 years old, 17 at most! (He called me "jail bait") Close, I was 21, quite legal. He did learn I was in college as my mom shared about my running and different "accomplishments"...haha. Apparently, I caught his attention. He thought I had pretty eyes, and he also liked my smile. However, he also thought I had a bit of an attitude, a reserved attitude, trying to give off the impression I was "not available" or taken by some other young man. As he left, he told me later, he said under his breath, "Whoever he is, he's a lucky guy." Almost 4 months later, he got the courage to call! He was the one I waited for!
* :) I love you!! Thank you for pursuing me and giving me the chance!
2. How long have you been together? I got this wrong at our church shower...what exactly is together? We have so many "dates": We met May 22, 2005, he called me for the first time Sept 11, 2005, he came home and we spent time together every day starting Dec 14, 2005, we started courting Dec 23?, 2005, we were engaged May 20, 2006 and married Dec 16, 2006. (None of these dates were planned either, cool huh?)Umm, I guess for 2 1/2 years since we started courting. We've been married for almost a year and a half.
3. How long dated? Matt courted me for 5 months.
4. How old is your man? 27
5. Who eats more? He does
6. Who said “I love you” first? Matt did after he proposed and then I said it to him
7. Who is taller? He is by about 10 inches
8. Who sings better? He does
9. Who is smarter? I think he is, but we make a good team! :)
10. Whose temper is worse? In the car, me, when it comes to work, him.
11. Who does the laundry? At home, I usually do. I guess right now, we both do, on completely different sides of the world.
12. Who takes out the garbage? I do. Matt used to and will when he comes home ;)
13. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? It depends how we have our bed arranged or where it is in the hotel or barracks (...did I say that?) He sleeps closer to the door wherever that is. He's my protector!
14. Who pays the bills? I do with his money.
15. Who is better with the computer? Definitely Matt.
16. Who mows the lawn? Some guy the landlord pays.
17. Who cooks dinner? Right now, good question. Before, we often did it together, or he would or I would.
18. Who drives when you are together? Usually him, it's safer.
19. Who pays when you go out? Usually Matt.
20. Who is most stubborn? That may depend on the situation.
21. Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Probably Matt...sometimes I jokingly string it out and make "excuses"
22. Whose parents do you see the most? Mine
23. Who kissed who first? Matthew, you may kiss your bride...He did! It was kinda wet...hahahaha.
24. Who asked who out? I certainly didn't ask him, but I think I encouraged it
25. Who proposed? Matt did
26. Who is more sensitive? I am
27. Who has more friends? Most of ours are sort of the same ...I think we're about equal.
28. Who has more siblings? Me.
29. Who wears the pants in the family? He does, but again, I think we make a good team!
30. How did you meet? Well, 3 years ago today, we met at church.
Would you like to hear the story?
My mom tried several times to direct my attention to different guys. I think she was just excited for the time when I would meet "the one" and fall in love. I knew (well, hoped!) if there was a guy out there worthy of my love (haha), he would pursue me and sort of "do the work" to win me over. So, I wasn't one to go out of my way to talk with guys I didn't know. I am pretty old fashioned when it comes to relationships, and I certainly was not the flirty type. I never "dated" until Matt came along.
It was finals week of my junior year of college. Matt's older brother was attending our church and my mom heard a few things about his younger brother, Matt. She told me once that I should "check this guy out." I had seen a couple pictures of him and thought he was handsome. I also always had a respect for men willing to sacrifice all for our freedom, our country. However, I never dreamed, hoped, or thought I would marry a man in the military. This particular week, Mom had reason to think Matt would attend the Young Adult Bible Study with his brother because he was home on leave. I hadn't been a part of that study because I had classes on the night it met that semester. Since it was finals week, I didn't have class. I needed money for something so my mom gave me...I can't remember if it was $5 or $10 and told me I had to go to the Bible study then. I took the money but didn't go, very typical of me. She found out I didn't go and I had to pay her back! I think this part is so funny and one of my favorite memories. My mom has NEVER paid me to do something, I mean, beyond giving me money to pick up some things from the store for her...that I can remember. So, I think Sunday rolled around and Matt didn't join his brother in church, and we thought he was headed back to Hawaii where he was stationed. Don't you know, the next Sunday, I was getting ready for church and having a horrible time fixing my hair. My hair is the thickest, puffiest, frizziest mess you ever did see. I have yet to find a way I really like it. Anyway, I was getting frustrated, like usual, and I remember saying to myself, "Who cares? It's not like I have anybody to impress anyway!" God certainly has a sense of humor. Who walked into church that morning? My tall, handsome, strapping Matthew! I remember being so paranoid the whole sunday school and service thinking he had wind of my mom trying to set us up...and if his brother was in on it...ugh. Matt is convinced that I looked at him at least 5 times (apparently he was counting) during church, but I strongly disagree. There is NO way I would've made eye contact with him...I didn't and wouldn't do that. After church, I scrambled. I didn't want to be caught alone in case he did happen to come over. That's why I went and stood by my parents in the door way...haha. I did not want sole attention on me in any way. Yes, this may sound ridiculous. However, if you are familiar with our church, you know it is very small. I couldn't just blend in very easily. He and his brother went to the door, and Matt was introduced to my parents first. They gave him a big hug. Then we were introduced. He shook my hand. I think this is hysterical...so me. I am not "huggy" and my parents are. No way am I going to throw a big hug around some guy. His handshake was quite manly, and he looked me in the eye. That caught my attention and both of those things were secretly important to me for a "potential" husband. I noticed his shoes, his adidas running shoes....they were the same ones my dad had. I mentally noted that. (Later, I thought it would make a cute country song. The man who wore my daddy's shoes....or something like that, but I don't mean for that to sound creepy...anyway). I don't remember saying much more than my name. My mom and dad talked about me, and I hoped for the time to be over. He left phew. I didn't really think I'd see or hear from him again.
From Matt's perspective, he thought I was looking at him during church. When he first saw me, he guessed I was around 15 years old, 17 at most! (He called me "jail bait") Close, I was 21, quite legal. He did learn I was in college as my mom shared about my running and different "accomplishments"...haha. Apparently, I caught his attention. He thought I had pretty eyes, and he also liked my smile. However, he also thought I had a bit of an attitude, a reserved attitude, trying to give off the impression I was "not available" or taken by some other young man. As he left, he told me later, he said under his breath, "Whoever he is, he's a lucky guy." Almost 4 months later, he got the courage to call! He was the one I waited for!
* :) I love you!! Thank you for pursuing me and giving me the chance!
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Wanna See Somethin' Sweet?
This afternoon, I was checking my email and Matt signed in online. Right after he asked me how I was doing today, the doorbell rang. (I was also trying to finish the last 30 seconds of a facebook Scramble I began before Matt signed on...yes, this was a Scramble, 3 things at once). I went to the door and what did my little eyes see?
THESE!
The packaging was seriously taller than my waist. I found it funny!
My man was on just before 4am his time to check on me...and the flowers. :) Yes, he also had to make his 4am bus to work, but that's beside the point! He still saved time to talk with me before he had to leave. He is the best!
Aren't they beautiful?
I know my photography skills don't do them justice, and my battery was running out (to the point where the camera kept turning off on me) so I had to take them really quickly, but you get the idea!!
So, what is the special occassion? 2 years ago today, I said, "Yes!" May 20, 2006, Matt proposed!
*Thank you so much Bubba! I meant Yes then, today, and forever more! I love you!
THESE!
The packaging was seriously taller than my waist. I found it funny!
My man was on just before 4am his time to check on me...and the flowers. :) Yes, he also had to make his 4am bus to work, but that's beside the point! He still saved time to talk with me before he had to leave. He is the best!
Aren't they beautiful?
I know my photography skills don't do them justice, and my battery was running out (to the point where the camera kept turning off on me) so I had to take them really quickly, but you get the idea!!
So, what is the special occassion? 2 years ago today, I said, "Yes!" May 20, 2006, Matt proposed!
*Thank you so much Bubba! I meant Yes then, today, and forever more! I love you!
Friday, May 16, 2008
Today's Schedule and Yesterday's Blunder
Today is my Mom's birthday....Happy Birthday Mom!
I'm hoping to talk with Matt this morning. Have I mentioned he's the best? The other day he "sang" ("Good Morning Beautiful"....tear) to me over IM. Well, he typed the words, but I could hear him singing. I received some information concerning Matt's return to the states today. I was excited. Then I read it, and it was not so exciting. No "new" information. Oh well, it must mean we are getting closer though!! I go in for an ultrasound this morning. I'm a little nervous but hoping I'm A OK. What is A ok anyway...the "a"..absolutely?
I'm hoping I get out in time for Laurel's baby shower. The ladies at the bus garage where Pete works is throwing her a shower...isn't that sweet?
I need to do a little grocery shopping after that. Then tonight is a family dinner for my Mom's birthday!
Ok, yesterday, I went birthday shopping. I really wanted to get my Mom something decorative/crafty for around the house from an antique store. I spent all afternoon shopping and did not find something that really stuck out to me. I went on to plan B looking for a nice top for her. Nope, that was unsuccessful too. She has mentioned she'd really like a nice new quilt or bedspread. I didn't find a great one of those either. No, I shouldn't have shopped last minute, but I had my ideas, and I had done some shopping (or should I say looking?) a couple weeks ago. Unfortunately, it looks like I'm going to have to be "unoriginal." I'm going to take her out one day to craft/antique stores for her to pick something out. I think part of my problem was getting something that she wasn't particularly thrilled about, and then you can't return it. So, I was extra picky at what I saw.
Here's the real blunder part. I stopped at McDonald's on the way home to grab a snack...some nuggets. I was starving...does shopping do that to anyone else? It was too early for dinner, so this was just a snack. After I went through the drive thru, I figured I would just park and scarf them down. Then head on to my parents'. If I'm sitting in my car, alone especially, I need noise...music. So, I keep the car's music on while turning the engine off and eat my delicious dollar menu snack. I finish and go to turn my car on. Umm, nothing was happening. Then I couldn't turn it "off" to get my key out. Ohhh, man. So I try shifting to different gears after I turn it "on" (but nothing is happening). I call my dad and his line is busy. I call my brother, but there was no answer. My phone battery was literally about to go dead, and here I am, stranded here in McDonald's parking lot...not to mention I'm parked next to this truck that appeared to be dealing drugs. He was waiting around, sitting in his truck (kind of like I was before I was pounding on the steering wheel). Then another guy came, and they went to his back hatch...talking low, around the other side of the truck. Well, after the several minutes of wrestling with my car, I was able to see the 2 men making a different deal...I believe one was selling a handsaw to another? They had it out and were sawing something on the other side of the truck. I don't know, but I could hear it. I was just thankful they didn't see my "distress" and try to help. Matt and I have had a couple experiences at McDonald's when we've feared for our safety. One was across town and the other was in Hawaii. Anyway, I finally got ahold my dad and he said to try moving my steering wheel (in case it was locked or whatever?). He'd come and get me in a few minutes if I wasn't back. Well, that didn't work. I finally realized, that though my shifter thing was in park, the red marker line wasn't there next to the P to tell me I was indeed in park. It was like my shifter was jammed and wouldn't go forward all the way. Then I realized the problem, after however many minutes, however many phone calls. We use one of those portable CD players you plug into the car with the cassette and a thing that goes in the lighter (I'm so technical). Well, the plug that goes in the lighter is kind of large and L-shaped and was prohibiting my shifter from locking into park. That was the jam! Hence, why I couldn't turn my car on or off or get my key out. (I don't know if all cars do that, but mine definitely does weird things.) So, I made it home, feeling as stupid as ever. Oh well.
Matt's on now!
*I love you!
I'm hoping to talk with Matt this morning. Have I mentioned he's the best? The other day he "sang" ("Good Morning Beautiful"....tear) to me over IM. Well, he typed the words, but I could hear him singing. I received some information concerning Matt's return to the states today. I was excited. Then I read it, and it was not so exciting. No "new" information. Oh well, it must mean we are getting closer though!! I go in for an ultrasound this morning. I'm a little nervous but hoping I'm A OK. What is A ok anyway...the "a"..absolutely?
I'm hoping I get out in time for Laurel's baby shower. The ladies at the bus garage where Pete works is throwing her a shower...isn't that sweet?
I need to do a little grocery shopping after that. Then tonight is a family dinner for my Mom's birthday!
Ok, yesterday, I went birthday shopping. I really wanted to get my Mom something decorative/crafty for around the house from an antique store. I spent all afternoon shopping and did not find something that really stuck out to me. I went on to plan B looking for a nice top for her. Nope, that was unsuccessful too. She has mentioned she'd really like a nice new quilt or bedspread. I didn't find a great one of those either. No, I shouldn't have shopped last minute, but I had my ideas, and I had done some shopping (or should I say looking?) a couple weeks ago. Unfortunately, it looks like I'm going to have to be "unoriginal." I'm going to take her out one day to craft/antique stores for her to pick something out. I think part of my problem was getting something that she wasn't particularly thrilled about, and then you can't return it. So, I was extra picky at what I saw.
Here's the real blunder part. I stopped at McDonald's on the way home to grab a snack...some nuggets. I was starving...does shopping do that to anyone else? It was too early for dinner, so this was just a snack. After I went through the drive thru, I figured I would just park and scarf them down. Then head on to my parents'. If I'm sitting in my car, alone especially, I need noise...music. So, I keep the car's music on while turning the engine off and eat my delicious dollar menu snack. I finish and go to turn my car on. Umm, nothing was happening. Then I couldn't turn it "off" to get my key out. Ohhh, man. So I try shifting to different gears after I turn it "on" (but nothing is happening). I call my dad and his line is busy. I call my brother, but there was no answer. My phone battery was literally about to go dead, and here I am, stranded here in McDonald's parking lot...not to mention I'm parked next to this truck that appeared to be dealing drugs. He was waiting around, sitting in his truck (kind of like I was before I was pounding on the steering wheel). Then another guy came, and they went to his back hatch...talking low, around the other side of the truck. Well, after the several minutes of wrestling with my car, I was able to see the 2 men making a different deal...I believe one was selling a handsaw to another? They had it out and were sawing something on the other side of the truck. I don't know, but I could hear it. I was just thankful they didn't see my "distress" and try to help. Matt and I have had a couple experiences at McDonald's when we've feared for our safety. One was across town and the other was in Hawaii. Anyway, I finally got ahold my dad and he said to try moving my steering wheel (in case it was locked or whatever?). He'd come and get me in a few minutes if I wasn't back. Well, that didn't work. I finally realized, that though my shifter thing was in park, the red marker line wasn't there next to the P to tell me I was indeed in park. It was like my shifter was jammed and wouldn't go forward all the way. Then I realized the problem, after however many minutes, however many phone calls. We use one of those portable CD players you plug into the car with the cassette and a thing that goes in the lighter (I'm so technical). Well, the plug that goes in the lighter is kind of large and L-shaped and was prohibiting my shifter from locking into park. That was the jam! Hence, why I couldn't turn my car on or off or get my key out. (I don't know if all cars do that, but mine definitely does weird things.) So, I made it home, feeling as stupid as ever. Oh well.
Matt's on now!
*I love you!
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Goin' against the Grain
I mentioned in a previous post that Matt and I will have a lot of decisions to make when he comes home, and some before he comes home. One of those decisions involves me and teaching. I have decided not to pursue a full time teaching job next year. There were some openings available that sounded like good possibilities (to apply for and see...), but there has been a tug at my heart to remain somewhat open and flexible. I have had the concern about the combination of teaching full time next year and adjusting to life with Matt home again. When I have mentioned this concern to professors or others asking my plans for next year, sometimes I apparently appear to have two heads. "Of course you can handle it." Maybe I would be able to handle it, but I do not desire the added stress on our relationship. I love Matt so much...that's why I married him. I am sticking by my decision to substitute ...but waiting on the Lord for a different direction if He has one. So, I'm not really writing this to justify myself...but sort of explain this...since it has been a very real, growing experience for me as I'm learning how to be the kind of wife I need to be for my husband.
As a teacher, time is very important for planning, correcting, faculty meetings, mentor meetings all in addition to teaching time... As a first year teacher, I would be pretty much starting from scratch for lessons, activities, ideas, etc. It's part of teaching, and a part that I really enjoy. However, next fall, I cannot justify spending extra hours away from home or at home but not really "being" home with my husband. When he comes home, I need to be free to take care of the things at home and be a blessing, support, and partner to my Matt. We found out this week, that October is looking more likely for Matt to be home than July. If possible, I would like to be out in California as much as I can. That just would not be possible if I'm teaching. My heart would be with him...and I wouldn't be giving the children/students what they need or my husband what he needs. When he does come home in October, we will have been married 22 months...12 of those he will have been away from home. Not living with your husband for over half of your marriage, however long or short, is significant. There is going to be some adjustment and I think some more dating all over again. Don't get me wrong, I haven't lost my love for him, quite the contrary. I would just like to be wise in prioritizing and making the place and environment he comes home to a loving and welcoming one. Then maybe as the year goes on, a long term sub position will open...who knows? I need to be open to moving as well...I follow and go with my husband, and we do not know where he will be working yet. We do not want to settle down because of the location of where my job is but where his is.
Since Matt has been gone, I have come to appreciate the many aspects of home responsibilities even more. When we were first married, I was going to grad school full time and working at the Y's childcare part-time and then full time as I phased out of grad school. I was busy with school work when I wasn't working or at class. Matt helped out a lot around the apartment. Since he has been gone, it has been almost a full time job just making sure everything is taken care of. It would probably help to have a different apartment ;) , but this is where we are!
Because of my flexible schedule, for the most part, I have been able to receive Matt's calls and IM's. Those are priceless. I am realizing what I blessing I can be to my Matt by staying home. Since we do not have children yet, I don't think I need to not work at all outside the home...but I need to keep in mind I married my husband not my work. I hope I am making sense. I was encouraged by a prayer for Matt's priorities this week from "The Power of a Praying Wife Book of Prayers" by Stormie Omartian. I'm going to share the whole prayer, it's found on page 70 of the little book.
"Lord, I pray for my husband's priorities to be in perfect order. Be Lord and Ruler over his heart. Help him to choose a simplicity of life that will allow him to have time alone with You, Lord, a place to be quiet in Your presence every day. Speak to him about making Your Word, prayer, and praise a priority. Enable him to place me and our children in greater prominence in his heart than career, friends, and activities.
I pray he will seek You first and submit his all to You, for when he does I know the other pieces of his life will fit together perfectly.
Help me to properly put my husband before children, work, family, friends, activities, and interests. Show me what I can do right now to demonstrate to him that he has this position in my heart."
This has been a little bit difficult and confusing. I spent 4 years in college to receive a teaching degree, then 1 year for my Master's...and in NY, I only have 5 years to get those 3 years of teaching in and a Master's to become permanently certified. This fall, I will have 3 years left (and we all know upstate NY is booming with elementary teaching positions)...actually dropping me down to 2 because of my decision for next year. Was all the time, education (and gulp, money?)a "waste"? I don't believe so, even though it doesn't make much sense to me. Will I ever use my degree beyond subbing? I do not know what will happen with all this, but I do know I need to be faithful to the Lord's leading for my life, my husband, and our family. My intentions are not to preach to others about how they need their marriage and families to be. This is where I am. Please keep us in your prayers! We appreciate it! I'll take some words of wisdom and advice too!
*I love you Matt!
As a teacher, time is very important for planning, correcting, faculty meetings, mentor meetings all in addition to teaching time... As a first year teacher, I would be pretty much starting from scratch for lessons, activities, ideas, etc. It's part of teaching, and a part that I really enjoy. However, next fall, I cannot justify spending extra hours away from home or at home but not really "being" home with my husband. When he comes home, I need to be free to take care of the things at home and be a blessing, support, and partner to my Matt. We found out this week, that October is looking more likely for Matt to be home than July. If possible, I would like to be out in California as much as I can. That just would not be possible if I'm teaching. My heart would be with him...and I wouldn't be giving the children/students what they need or my husband what he needs. When he does come home in October, we will have been married 22 months...12 of those he will have been away from home. Not living with your husband for over half of your marriage, however long or short, is significant. There is going to be some adjustment and I think some more dating all over again. Don't get me wrong, I haven't lost my love for him, quite the contrary. I would just like to be wise in prioritizing and making the place and environment he comes home to a loving and welcoming one. Then maybe as the year goes on, a long term sub position will open...who knows? I need to be open to moving as well...I follow and go with my husband, and we do not know where he will be working yet. We do not want to settle down because of the location of where my job is but where his is.
Since Matt has been gone, I have come to appreciate the many aspects of home responsibilities even more. When we were first married, I was going to grad school full time and working at the Y's childcare part-time and then full time as I phased out of grad school. I was busy with school work when I wasn't working or at class. Matt helped out a lot around the apartment. Since he has been gone, it has been almost a full time job just making sure everything is taken care of. It would probably help to have a different apartment ;) , but this is where we are!
Because of my flexible schedule, for the most part, I have been able to receive Matt's calls and IM's. Those are priceless. I am realizing what I blessing I can be to my Matt by staying home. Since we do not have children yet, I don't think I need to not work at all outside the home...but I need to keep in mind I married my husband not my work. I hope I am making sense. I was encouraged by a prayer for Matt's priorities this week from "The Power of a Praying Wife Book of Prayers" by Stormie Omartian. I'm going to share the whole prayer, it's found on page 70 of the little book.
"Lord, I pray for my husband's priorities to be in perfect order. Be Lord and Ruler over his heart. Help him to choose a simplicity of life that will allow him to have time alone with You, Lord, a place to be quiet in Your presence every day. Speak to him about making Your Word, prayer, and praise a priority. Enable him to place me and our children in greater prominence in his heart than career, friends, and activities.
I pray he will seek You first and submit his all to You, for when he does I know the other pieces of his life will fit together perfectly.
Help me to properly put my husband before children, work, family, friends, activities, and interests. Show me what I can do right now to demonstrate to him that he has this position in my heart."
This has been a little bit difficult and confusing. I spent 4 years in college to receive a teaching degree, then 1 year for my Master's...and in NY, I only have 5 years to get those 3 years of teaching in and a Master's to become permanently certified. This fall, I will have 3 years left (and we all know upstate NY is booming with elementary teaching positions)...actually dropping me down to 2 because of my decision for next year. Was all the time, education (and gulp, money?)a "waste"? I don't believe so, even though it doesn't make much sense to me. Will I ever use my degree beyond subbing? I do not know what will happen with all this, but I do know I need to be faithful to the Lord's leading for my life, my husband, and our family. My intentions are not to preach to others about how they need their marriage and families to be. This is where I am. Please keep us in your prayers! We appreciate it! I'll take some words of wisdom and advice too!
*I love you Matt!
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Happy Mother's Day!
In honor of my Mom, Matt's Mom, and Grandmas...
I need some more pictures on my computer...this is what I have (and the wedding ones are the most "recent." I guess it's time to update!).
We love you!
I need some more pictures on my computer...this is what I have (and the wedding ones are the most "recent." I guess it's time to update!).
We love you!
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
We Miss You, Matt!
Ok, I'm just so excited! I went on my blog for Matt to add the prayer of the day, and out of the blue, do you know what I noticed?? My videos to him have appeared out of no where!! They were just boxes with an x, but you could view them under preview. Now, he can see them without the hassle. How cool is that? I don't know what changed, but I'm soo thankful and happy for it.
I thought I'd add this video since they seem to be working. Umm, ignore my voice in the background and hum a patriotic song instead. I took this quick video of my nephew, Nathanael, in like March I think. I just think it's so cute, and patriotic! My brother, Dave, and his wife, Sarah, have a little American who loves flags and his uncle Matt (and I suppose the Yankees too)!
We're watching and waiting for you to come home Matt!
I thought I'd add this video since they seem to be working. Umm, ignore my voice in the background and hum a patriotic song instead. I took this quick video of my nephew, Nathanael, in like March I think. I just think it's so cute, and patriotic! My brother, Dave, and his wife, Sarah, have a little American who loves flags and his uncle Matt (and I suppose the Yankees too)!
We're watching and waiting for you to come home Matt!
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
our home decor
One of my favorite questions from Matt was when we "got" our apartment. He was moving in, I think it was the end of that September and would be tending the place to himself, except for a couple months with my cousin, Matt, until I moved in on our wedding day. The question was, "Can I decorate (maybe it started with, what would you think if I decorated) the apartment first? Then you can tell me what you think and can change it when you move in." He said he wanted to try it first. I'm really not being sarcastic by saying that's one of my favorite questions. I was excited....interested to see how he, a man, would decorate. I remember the first time I came to the apartment after he moved in, looking forward to seeing his skills. I walked in and looked around. "So, when are you going to start decorating?" "I did!" I was a little confused since I didn't see anything really "around" except for his stereo equipment and xbox...some clothes. Matt was actually referring to his arrangement of the furniture. Oh, he makes me smile. I'm sure he did a fine job arranging, but I honestly can't remember (so it couldn't have been that bad...just kidding). He's pretty good at that actually. (Before I go any further, I want to make it clear, whenever I talk about my husband, it is out of love. Sometimes I point out our oddities, but I try to find the humor in it. I am not in any way trying to put down my husband, my Matt. I love him so much, orange/brown socks, big speakers, and all!)
Being a young wife and in our first place together, I have really enjoyed finding my taste in decorating, or maybe lack-there-of taste? It's a work in progress. It has been a challenge to my creativity to work around/with Matt's huge homemade speakers and a bench he made as a youngster. Those pieces of furniture at first were a little bit of an...eyesore...for me, but now they have become part of our home. (If he wants to downsize those speakers though, I wouldn't shed a tear.) I have come to absolutely love his bench!
I think if we ever had a fire, that would be one of the things I'd try to haul out. It's not great wood by any stretch and it's covered in mortar or cement on the legs and edges because his dad was a mason (and things naturally got covered in that kind of stuff). It was just one of those projects he did out of the blue I think. He likes to work with his hands, and I really like that about him. (His favorite childhood toys were sticks....because they could be made into anything, especially toy guns and sling shots.) Anyway, I am pretty patriotic and just love "old" things, so I love to find almost anything on the Primitive/Country/Americana (and some Willow Creek too) side. Piece by piece I am collecting different things from garage sales, craft sales, hand-me downs, and stores.
Today, I got 2 super cute wall hangings/paintings/pictures from Walmart (I think for $3 total). I dug and dug through countless pictures that were NOT my style just wondering...just hoping...there might be something neat. Ta-da! I found, well, I settled on 2. A large one and a small one. The large one really won't work quite yet because of our apartment...but when we move...I look forward to working with it!! I think it would look so cute in a cheery mudroom (ha, sounds a little like an oxymoron). So, yes, we must find a house with a mudroom so I can put this picture there...ok, I will work with whatever house or next apartment we are blessed with, mudroom or not.
The little one goes sooo well with my little antique, dark wood, toys and the flag basket I have.
Bad glare!!
Oh, if anyone knows of where I can get an old truck or train in similar dark faded wood, I would like to hear it. I think that would be the final piece to the little collection of old toys.
Sorry about the quality of the pictures....I know they're bad, but you get the idea. Some I took awhile ago and some tonight. I just don't have the patience for these pictures. Yes, I still have the sled out next to the bench from winter. I figure it can stay out till we're sure we aren't having any more snow!
*I love you Matt!
Being a young wife and in our first place together, I have really enjoyed finding my taste in decorating, or maybe lack-there-of taste? It's a work in progress. It has been a challenge to my creativity to work around/with Matt's huge homemade speakers and a bench he made as a youngster. Those pieces of furniture at first were a little bit of an...eyesore...for me, but now they have become part of our home. (If he wants to downsize those speakers though, I wouldn't shed a tear.) I have come to absolutely love his bench!
I think if we ever had a fire, that would be one of the things I'd try to haul out. It's not great wood by any stretch and it's covered in mortar or cement on the legs and edges because his dad was a mason (and things naturally got covered in that kind of stuff). It was just one of those projects he did out of the blue I think. He likes to work with his hands, and I really like that about him. (His favorite childhood toys were sticks....because they could be made into anything, especially toy guns and sling shots.) Anyway, I am pretty patriotic and just love "old" things, so I love to find almost anything on the Primitive/Country/Americana (and some Willow Creek too) side. Piece by piece I am collecting different things from garage sales, craft sales, hand-me downs, and stores.
Today, I got 2 super cute wall hangings/paintings/pictures from Walmart (I think for $3 total). I dug and dug through countless pictures that were NOT my style just wondering...just hoping...there might be something neat. Ta-da! I found, well, I settled on 2. A large one and a small one. The large one really won't work quite yet because of our apartment...but when we move...I look forward to working with it!! I think it would look so cute in a cheery mudroom (ha, sounds a little like an oxymoron). So, yes, we must find a house with a mudroom so I can put this picture there...ok, I will work with whatever house or next apartment we are blessed with, mudroom or not.
The little one goes sooo well with my little antique, dark wood, toys and the flag basket I have.
Bad glare!!
Oh, if anyone knows of where I can get an old truck or train in similar dark faded wood, I would like to hear it. I think that would be the final piece to the little collection of old toys.
Sorry about the quality of the pictures....I know they're bad, but you get the idea. Some I took awhile ago and some tonight. I just don't have the patience for these pictures. Yes, I still have the sled out next to the bench from winter. I figure it can stay out till we're sure we aren't having any more snow!
*I love you Matt!
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Kissaroo and the Barnyard too!
So, I'll start with Kissaroo! I taught kindergarten this week, and I saw this book and thought it was absolutely adorable!! It's called, "Won't You Be My Kissaroo?" by Joanne Ryder and Melissa Sweet. I still need help with my links, so just check it out on amazon or something. I really want to get it! It's written for children, from a mom sheep to her lamb sort of ....but I'll let you in on a secret....I videotaped myself reading it and put it on the other blog I have for Matt for his birthday video. Yes, there's a reason why he's the only one who can read that blog. Nobody else would want to listen to me read a silly story, with lots of bloopers because I just copied down the text real quick at the end of the day and couldn't read my handwriting!
Sidenote: How cool is my family??? They sent I think 32 emails to Matt for his birthday!! Thank you family!! It helps to have a big family, but that's so awesome!!
The book is sort of written like a poem and talks about all different kinds of wonderful kisses...hehe. Good morning kisses, hello kisses, good-bye kisses, breakfast sticky kisses, "gotcha" kisses, and on and on. I think it's one of my favorites. So sweet! It's not one for a good plot though! However, I think it's one any parent would enjoy reading (well, Moms anyway) to their little one or even wives to their husbands (big points for any husband who reads it to their wives)! haha Hooray! I made a plug for Literacy! I need to use that Master's degree some time. Someday, maybe I'll share more of my favorite "children's" books. That's about all the kind of books I've read in the past 6 years, besides text books. I did start an "adult" book today, haha...ok, a novel, so we'll see how that goes.
This weekend, well, Thursday on, my parents are out of town. Roberts had a track meet, Christian Nationals, out in Indiana and my dad coaches, so he's often gone most weekends (until super early Sunday mornings ...for church). My mom went with him this time. Being the helpful daughter I am (ok, the boring one out of the 4 kids without much of a ...a...busy life, no that's not right. Yeah, I guess just the boring one right now), was stuck with, I mean left with the responsibility of taking care of the animals. Caleb, our dog is alright, but right now he stinks! It's pouring outside, and I'm thankful to have just finished feeding the animals. We all (the animals: sheep, goats, donkey, horse, ducks, Caleb... and I) got pretty wet. Several weeks ago Caleb must have sat on a skunk or, probably rolled on a skunk. Oh man he stunk! He's an indoor dog that's an outdoor dog at heart. He loves being outside, but he loves people too. So, he's in when the weather is bad and during the night or when the family is inside for the most part. Anyways, no, as far as I know he hasn't had another date with a skunk but anytime it rains and he gets wet...that scent just bursts on forth! I put off filling the water troughs till tonight, so I had to stand in the rain with the hose while he runs around sniffing things out. I was hoping the weather would call for several inches of rain...so I wouldn't have to fill them ;) just kidding..? At least they were all where they were supposed to be tonight. This morning, I was in a hurry (to go babysit Nathanael), isn't that the way it always is? and one of the ducks was out and the littlest lamb was in the wrong stall ma-jig. The last day I have to deal with you and this is what you do? We still have yet to figure out how that duck keeps getting out. She's pretty tricky! On the neat end, we have 3 eggs in a nest in the barn. We'll see if we get some little ducklings! Matt and I have discussed this whole animal issue when we have kids several times. This is our conclusion: We don't mind having fish as pets (haha) or at most, a dog. (Oh wait, we might have to have Matt's chinchilla, Yoda, for awhile...sigh...at least it's small :) As soon as our kids ask for the "bigger and better pets"....we ship them off for a weekend at Grandma and Grandpa's. They can help out all they want. (My parents waited till all us kids were grown up to finally get half the animal we wanted...a horse...they have a mini-horse.) Hey, maybe our kids can even persuade them to get a different animal, but it stays at Grandma and Grandpa's!! Grandparents really do spoil the grandkids waayy more than their kids. Hopefully, that'll still be the case when our kids come around! Our kids will be able to have the fun of "having" animals, but we won't have the mess! And, we won't be stuck with the animals, after the novelty has worn off for them and/or when we want to go on vacation!
*I love you...even though you like chinchillas...ew.
Sidenote: How cool is my family??? They sent I think 32 emails to Matt for his birthday!! Thank you family!! It helps to have a big family, but that's so awesome!!
The book is sort of written like a poem and talks about all different kinds of wonderful kisses...hehe. Good morning kisses, hello kisses, good-bye kisses, breakfast sticky kisses, "gotcha" kisses, and on and on. I think it's one of my favorites. So sweet! It's not one for a good plot though! However, I think it's one any parent would enjoy reading (well, Moms anyway) to their little one or even wives to their husbands (big points for any husband who reads it to their wives)! haha Hooray! I made a plug for Literacy! I need to use that Master's degree some time. Someday, maybe I'll share more of my favorite "children's" books. That's about all the kind of books I've read in the past 6 years, besides text books. I did start an "adult" book today, haha...ok, a novel, so we'll see how that goes.
This weekend, well, Thursday on, my parents are out of town. Roberts had a track meet, Christian Nationals, out in Indiana and my dad coaches, so he's often gone most weekends (until super early Sunday mornings ...for church). My mom went with him this time. Being the helpful daughter I am (ok, the boring one out of the 4 kids without much of a ...a...busy life, no that's not right. Yeah, I guess just the boring one right now), was stuck with, I mean left with the responsibility of taking care of the animals. Caleb, our dog is alright, but right now he stinks! It's pouring outside, and I'm thankful to have just finished feeding the animals. We all (the animals: sheep, goats, donkey, horse, ducks, Caleb... and I) got pretty wet. Several weeks ago Caleb must have sat on a skunk or, probably rolled on a skunk. Oh man he stunk! He's an indoor dog that's an outdoor dog at heart. He loves being outside, but he loves people too. So, he's in when the weather is bad and during the night or when the family is inside for the most part. Anyways, no, as far as I know he hasn't had another date with a skunk but anytime it rains and he gets wet...that scent just bursts on forth! I put off filling the water troughs till tonight, so I had to stand in the rain with the hose while he runs around sniffing things out. I was hoping the weather would call for several inches of rain...so I wouldn't have to fill them ;) just kidding..? At least they were all where they were supposed to be tonight. This morning, I was in a hurry (to go babysit Nathanael), isn't that the way it always is? and one of the ducks was out and the littlest lamb was in the wrong stall ma-jig. The last day I have to deal with you and this is what you do? We still have yet to figure out how that duck keeps getting out. She's pretty tricky! On the neat end, we have 3 eggs in a nest in the barn. We'll see if we get some little ducklings! Matt and I have discussed this whole animal issue when we have kids several times. This is our conclusion: We don't mind having fish as pets (haha) or at most, a dog. (Oh wait, we might have to have Matt's chinchilla, Yoda, for awhile...sigh...at least it's small :) As soon as our kids ask for the "bigger and better pets"....we ship them off for a weekend at Grandma and Grandpa's. They can help out all they want. (My parents waited till all us kids were grown up to finally get half the animal we wanted...a horse...they have a mini-horse.) Hey, maybe our kids can even persuade them to get a different animal, but it stays at Grandma and Grandpa's!! Grandparents really do spoil the grandkids waayy more than their kids. Hopefully, that'll still be the case when our kids come around! Our kids will be able to have the fun of "having" animals, but we won't have the mess! And, we won't be stuck with the animals, after the novelty has worn off for them and/or when we want to go on vacation!
*I love you...even though you like chinchillas...ew.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Happy Birthday to My Keeper!
Today is my husband's birthday! I could not be more proud of the man he is and the "older" man God is making him to be. I love you so much Matt!
27 Birthday spankings! (Matt and his brother, Pete, with the fly-swatter)
27 Kisses! (I hope this isn't too...)
Ok, a G-rated one:
27 gazes in your eyes!
Ok, since I can't give spankings, kisses, or gazes, I sent him a package of goodies. I'm still waiting for more pictures, but for now, I guess this is a picture of his favorite gift:
This was a hat I got at the Salvation Army and thought was hysterical. I couldn't stop laughing and my mom was asking me what was so funny. I saw that hat and thought immediately of Matt. (Yes, I am sleep deprived and so is he! We have both gone loopy!) It is of special significance because of the Hawaiian islands on it...he was stationed at Kaneohe Bay in Oahu the last time he was in....and it's just a silly "old man's hat" to me. It even has like air vents for breathability! He loves being goofy, and the fact that it is used gives it character. It was also marked like 58 cents, and it was a blue tag, so it was 50% off...how could I pass it up? So, judging by it's frequent use, I think this was his favorite gift (he sent me like 4 pictures in it and wore it while we talked after he got it)...Well, maybe besides that paintball gun I got him for when he comes home! Right, Matt?
*Oh, just 2 1/2 months! You're the best Bubbs!! I love you!! Happy Birthday!!
27 Birthday spankings! (Matt and his brother, Pete, with the fly-swatter)
27 Kisses! (I hope this isn't too...)
Ok, a G-rated one:
27 gazes in your eyes!
Ok, since I can't give spankings, kisses, or gazes, I sent him a package of goodies. I'm still waiting for more pictures, but for now, I guess this is a picture of his favorite gift:
This was a hat I got at the Salvation Army and thought was hysterical. I couldn't stop laughing and my mom was asking me what was so funny. I saw that hat and thought immediately of Matt. (Yes, I am sleep deprived and so is he! We have both gone loopy!) It is of special significance because of the Hawaiian islands on it...he was stationed at Kaneohe Bay in Oahu the last time he was in....and it's just a silly "old man's hat" to me. It even has like air vents for breathability! He loves being goofy, and the fact that it is used gives it character. It was also marked like 58 cents, and it was a blue tag, so it was 50% off...how could I pass it up? So, judging by it's frequent use, I think this was his favorite gift (he sent me like 4 pictures in it and wore it while we talked after he got it)...Well, maybe besides that paintball gun I got him for when he comes home! Right, Matt?
*Oh, just 2 1/2 months! You're the best Bubbs!! I love you!! Happy Birthday!!
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