tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51487283678340350922024-03-18T22:45:15.312-04:00Our Little Familyest. 5.11.13Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17301925349651391856noreply@blogger.comBlogger416125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-56641612493590218002017-06-13T11:05:00.003-04:002017-06-13T11:07:28.788-04:00An eleven month catch up...picture style!<span style="font-size: large;">I think it goes without saying, but life has been quite busy for our little family over the past eleven months. Then again, what family hasn't had a busy past eleven months.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Let me catch you up a little bit on some key things that have happened in our lives since we last posted.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We signed a lease on a town home (you can read more details about how awesome our God is in providing this home <a href="http://ourlittlefamily-miller.blogspot.com/2016/07/we-moved.html" target="_blank">here</a>), and have been living there since. We cannot say enough positive about this place. We love it, and are excited to say that we have renewed our lease for another year here.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYLQYCde0iJi8EMEtQvC9iXRAEzswWxjh9bpiFgAGXnozYx36NuXALW5_2JSBAaIdOYTzUW2-Eoxzci_jo1uGgky959QTslt8TlMRuf0czR5DsjgKYGvi92dxxUJTHBxrdFzBgGei_As/s1600/Home+Collagewithoutnumbers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYLQYCde0iJi8EMEtQvC9iXRAEzswWxjh9bpiFgAGXnozYx36NuXALW5_2JSBAaIdOYTzUW2-Eoxzci_jo1uGgky959QTslt8TlMRuf0czR5DsjgKYGvi92dxxUJTHBxrdFzBgGei_As/s640/Home+Collagewithoutnumbers.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">There is a guest room (with an en-suite bathroom), so be sure to come visit us!</span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Before we knew it, it was time to go to Vermont for my little sister's wedding. It was such a sweet time with family, and the wedding was a beautiful rustic Vermont wedding out in a field. My sister did a phenomenal job planning her special day.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwGdcErNh-7b1QzMPwzGwCmU30ZGBBD73Szhyphenhyphen5zYCgEiQfi7IZhHq6is8cXWhfao94z8W1d6moZRT5GrAUZnC9GrWY9jPrVUu3yG7hpBnTd1s_Xv4tmfzJJZRYrhm4tHPCnnrnFJk3J2A/s1600/13920055_10209632673030782_5449164008515908876_o+edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwGdcErNh-7b1QzMPwzGwCmU30ZGBBD73Szhyphenhyphen5zYCgEiQfi7IZhHq6is8cXWhfao94z8W1d6moZRT5GrAUZnC9GrWY9jPrVUu3yG7hpBnTd1s_Xv4tmfzJJZRYrhm4tHPCnnrnFJk3J2A/s640/13920055_10209632673030782_5449164008515908876_o+edited.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> <i>Here are two pictures, used with permission, from my mom. My sister was a beautiful bride, and now she and her husband, Caleb, live in Florida and are expecting their first child in September. </i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw_ofrdAe5PIIeQdKUWRQmtVtS7FSi-UsrKnCiaNKOOHAHBYR1SpyEYoYW8ea16JloDmdbeLRLi2Lf1W7OvlxJ9o1OqjwQfBE6mfVoKkOahAaJPnGeAbg5EkuUZLKdd6sh2W50dvqHJw8/s1600/13923627_10209632674630822_2111149685219605832_o+edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw_ofrdAe5PIIeQdKUWRQmtVtS7FSi-UsrKnCiaNKOOHAHBYR1SpyEYoYW8ea16JloDmdbeLRLi2Lf1W7OvlxJ9o1OqjwQfBE6mfVoKkOahAaJPnGeAbg5EkuUZLKdd6sh2W50dvqHJw8/s640/13923627_10209632674630822_2111149685219605832_o+edited.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">All three of my siblings are now married to wonderful people. "Adulting" has been tough in that my siblings are three of my best friends, and they all live a long ways away. I miss them terribly, but treasure the moments together all the more.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">My parents came down to North Carolina with us after the wedding, and we had a great time together. They helped get my classroom ready, we went to the Panthers' stadium, and then took a quick trip up to Washington, DC.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Oxja6xo7bXBlkzwIs4k1c1pHVLYdM4yjWtBlK8uaiRfQFRz1rT6uxHUDJCMV36wvJXAKL0BRuCwIOTCwHROtV4miChhls-kWb1kfNcG0k5wJkz5T6TI-WCxjEI7Ibu_PHNQ2Bcu1eVg/s1600/Panthers+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Oxja6xo7bXBlkzwIs4k1c1pHVLYdM4yjWtBlK8uaiRfQFRz1rT6uxHUDJCMV36wvJXAKL0BRuCwIOTCwHROtV4miChhls-kWb1kfNcG0k5wJkz5T6TI-WCxjEI7Ibu_PHNQ2Bcu1eVg/s640/Panthers+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbVecjzgVC0_YkxOYzswozB5zt9lZF3INVcvlMtyXCovMwR6-Y6rHvbA3gIUsSH_1upAkKT1cQ0Y5shwzja9elmt1tBxN0rNZFXUKwRQqU8hkK2fvfcgIQgfKlsqzGg_Bn7zbJ9yXqZ2M/s1600/DC+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbVecjzgVC0_YkxOYzswozB5zt9lZF3INVcvlMtyXCovMwR6-Y6rHvbA3gIUsSH_1upAkKT1cQ0Y5shwzja9elmt1tBxN0rNZFXUKwRQqU8hkK2fvfcgIQgfKlsqzGg_Bn7zbJ9yXqZ2M/s640/DC+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">It was then time for a new school year to begin. I had twenty fifth and sixth graders. This year brought some of my lowest points as a teacher, in learning how to better meet the needs of not just my students, but the families of my students. It was a growing process to be sure, and I was able to learn a lot. This year made me especially thankful for the support and love from both my mister, and coworkers. I worked alongside some of the finest teachers, and was thankful to learn and grow alongside them.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Qrqif0JYcqEND-zSmKTRMMJxyOjzLc-_wH-PcezKAKPhYVBhtoAZ0DMgpHNqmjVmQxfEaWYb2Z8wZI6cKXG-ulJGMrv4pXs7352hghDGQTb19JV5IePDxIFhsW_IWiWpfucvlw4pE7U/s1600/ClassroomSetUpCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Qrqif0JYcqEND-zSmKTRMMJxyOjzLc-_wH-PcezKAKPhYVBhtoAZ0DMgpHNqmjVmQxfEaWYb2Z8wZI6cKXG-ulJGMrv4pXs7352hghDGQTb19JV5IePDxIFhsW_IWiWpfucvlw4pE7U/s640/ClassroomSetUpCollage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">In August, we celebrated the mister's birthday. Instead of a traditional gift, we decided to instead save that money to go on a short weekend camping trip together. A few weeks after his birthday, we drove to Damascus, VA and arrived after dark...in the rain. It was a very memorable camping trip for the both of us, but would go back in a heartbeat, if the situation prevented itself. While in Damascus, we adventured out to bike the 17 mile <a href="http://www.vacreepertrail.com/index.html" target="_blank">Virginia Creeper Trail</a> (disclaimer: it is basically all downhill). It was snowing when we arrived at the top of the mountain (via shuttle), and we enjoyed a leisurely ride down. We came home cold and tired, but had an outstanding time together.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP2ua6lSvMalIrMe9QbZThTFM0h4oFjJPtPabv3FqmlQBRbJHAyiYFrZRrz61d1ERkWwTcSyFgcBe53qFxLCRAg5ZeNaZS2jlnqNc8jGQQWHxoHS198dbklue4bxrP-_MQ-xNXxl1byrk/s1600/D2016BirthdayCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP2ua6lSvMalIrMe9QbZThTFM0h4oFjJPtPabv3FqmlQBRbJHAyiYFrZRrz61d1ERkWwTcSyFgcBe53qFxLCRAg5ZeNaZS2jlnqNc8jGQQWHxoHS198dbklue4bxrP-_MQ-xNXxl1byrk/s640/D2016BirthdayCollage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxEpT-5OMzH4llKRqJBqMEWDqxGl9oP3i83utvtXQtMVVDF1cxUU61dmgS5w_UdVGEG8EGkmAl8h2NpI0BJFJG44JOBuAlh5blucbMLNji29Gz0SdzuNAH-YBOlbm1ZiUOnOk7Hzv1gDM/s1600/BirthdayCamping.BikingTripCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxEpT-5OMzH4llKRqJBqMEWDqxGl9oP3i83utvtXQtMVVDF1cxUU61dmgS5w_UdVGEG8EGkmAl8h2NpI0BJFJG44JOBuAlh5blucbMLNji29Gz0SdzuNAH-YBOlbm1ZiUOnOk7Hzv1gDM/s640/BirthdayCamping.BikingTripCollage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">For Thanksgiving, we celebrated once at home just us, and then again in Virginia with the mister's side of the family. After Thanksgiving, we went to the the mister's parents home for some additional time together as family.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbWDA4pzg8gHhS_cVxoWEjBvj1HfEGrF9xMOSZJD3XIv4HNiudPJwY6Hf0jIXPof5JrMDPpaEL9VpUkYOreRMLUJc6b57RTLxaFkeMSY1q9oCefQFm4jUycUhdXuPnkBQ0RXtdqT2CztU/s1600/ThanksgivingCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbWDA4pzg8gHhS_cVxoWEjBvj1HfEGrF9xMOSZJD3XIv4HNiudPJwY6Hf0jIXPof5JrMDPpaEL9VpUkYOreRMLUJc6b57RTLxaFkeMSY1q9oCefQFm4jUycUhdXuPnkBQ0RXtdqT2CztU/s640/ThanksgivingCollage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Christmas was busy, as usual, but lent itself to some sweet time with loved one. We made it to both sides of the family!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-bgBZaCfM404d5pw_kAGvxMJ6HgyKq7QDlzfi34mDUza4vGmJOpm_Fwtov6gSXPko3QJuTgo4uGxXIAuNQbewEcmnq2YTX-n5RXjy6s_tBKjLt-NZbhFsDPbx7E29IOwIUbaLUa3RLVE/s1600/Christmas2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-bgBZaCfM404d5pw_kAGvxMJ6HgyKq7QDlzfi34mDUza4vGmJOpm_Fwtov6gSXPko3QJuTgo4uGxXIAuNQbewEcmnq2YTX-n5RXjy6s_tBKjLt-NZbhFsDPbx7E29IOwIUbaLUa3RLVE/s640/Christmas2017.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">It was also at Christmas, when we announced to family that we are growing our little family of two, to a little family of three.</span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQKL6-LCnOMABiCq1hv1Zj5VnB_vPJHHHmp2oKV6mqyYCCXpo77sKufLpnhXqDuRZwrUcqK8E0dD_c3FRnAYEmyHzJcTFDycRO_NzX2o7imOqjYDnrWqapinc2wkCuymaWzwieXzsXhos/s1600/ChristmasBabyAnnouncementCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQKL6-LCnOMABiCq1hv1Zj5VnB_vPJHHHmp2oKV6mqyYCCXpo77sKufLpnhXqDuRZwrUcqK8E0dD_c3FRnAYEmyHzJcTFDycRO_NzX2o7imOqjYDnrWqapinc2wkCuymaWzwieXzsXhos/s640/ChristmasBabyAnnouncementCollage.jpg" width="478" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The key word for February was FAMILY. We had the mister's entire immediate family together, as well as his maternal grandparents from Texas. My parents then came down for a visit from Vermont. We enjoyed the time together, and revealing the gender of our child!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-rDOPghT5BeTrrgySQ11LdQh_tJ8AbgVWKZTv4ZjByjZubQAI1YpwJPGWnhqPHYArgbk5z3oc8VAo2LLJOSQJuvK1nXSU2Ztg17YwFBDNV5O3UwvxDBuptcYZX8jkzayXQHSoNm952T0/s1600/Miller%252BGerberClanCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1108" data-original-width="1600" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-rDOPghT5BeTrrgySQ11LdQh_tJ8AbgVWKZTv4ZjByjZubQAI1YpwJPGWnhqPHYArgbk5z3oc8VAo2LLJOSQJuvK1nXSU2Ztg17YwFBDNV5O3UwvxDBuptcYZX8jkzayXQHSoNm952T0/s640/Miller%252BGerberClanCollage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6awIzZV6FZurbKm8WR-fjBFb84jQnBdIic29d45rfKM-js5yPPKDk4Ho4EMbjXCEqSs7e9ojpN0zLj1UbQ9IG5Gzf0aSy27KhhxF7r2AKl18iwINdTfydA9B-WhhypQuz5z6L0XxbJlA/s1600/Nieces+and+Nephews+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6awIzZV6FZurbKm8WR-fjBFb84jQnBdIic29d45rfKM-js5yPPKDk4Ho4EMbjXCEqSs7e9ojpN0zLj1UbQ9IG5Gzf0aSy27KhhxF7r2AKl18iwINdTfydA9B-WhhypQuz5z6L0XxbJlA/s640/Nieces+and+Nephews+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">You can never spend too much time with the sweet nieces and nephews.</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvJHbvIHTqxm5fmJa4zhMnfhSZ05RhRmWbmrkU5twyaWhv8CqMC-8lkQ64cM87e-gr_ByBJ0Olj5hp02mh6F9ZNmB9FXELrZ5kTYCSJ0Fz3wxC-rKRwnpRvQseDssqbp9cKTqQt_yiM3M/s1600/GenderRevealCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvJHbvIHTqxm5fmJa4zhMnfhSZ05RhRmWbmrkU5twyaWhv8CqMC-8lkQ64cM87e-gr_ByBJ0Olj5hp02mh6F9ZNmB9FXELrZ5kTYCSJ0Fz3wxC-rKRwnpRvQseDssqbp9cKTqQt_yiM3M/s640/GenderRevealCollage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">We did a small gender reveal brunch before the mister's grandparents flew back to Texas. We ordered Krispy Kreme donuts that were filled with BLUE frosting! (Some of the above [and below] pictures are to the credit of my dear mother...used with permission)</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxLd80OShVFVTD2BMIkQI4N3DwnByU0YapYfdVkbIBccZsvEhNhn-y4V9DhbLpmi0vwg4oUQXyTPIseBwsAkIqhZb1uX1Rych72QYkVgjol7EMJ2wldKodIRYAP8IQdlW8KtFP6H2MwVg/s1600/HewittParentVisit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxLd80OShVFVTD2BMIkQI4N3DwnByU0YapYfdVkbIBccZsvEhNhn-y4V9DhbLpmi0vwg4oUQXyTPIseBwsAkIqhZb1uX1Rych72QYkVgjol7EMJ2wldKodIRYAP8IQdlW8KtFP6H2MwVg/s640/HewittParentVisit.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">March and April were busy at school with end-of-the-year field trips, competitions, programs, and parties. Before school ended, Rebekah's students (and their parents) planned a surprise baby shower for the little man.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKJ2E_kQpTpibm6IEIyqkOaBgcrb_TRxseRavta9xOk553EjGLRT4y2ixUJYjLblUYo81QbhtfdrOQyeLpRXN5sNf5aFbPTMgB2oQCI583P0J0P0nYZxR4qHF7clyu8dW9CEiLOhLYQjo/s1600/BBCSshowerCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKJ2E_kQpTpibm6IEIyqkOaBgcrb_TRxseRavta9xOk553EjGLRT4y2ixUJYjLblUYo81QbhtfdrOQyeLpRXN5sNf5aFbPTMgB2oQCI583P0J0P0nYZxR4qHF7clyu8dW9CEiLOhLYQjo/s640/BBCSshowerCollage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">School ended on May 17th, with high school graduation on the 19th. Rebekah is officially a stay-at-home wife and mom and does not plan to return to teaching in the fall.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The Saturday after graduation, we flew up to Vermont as a last long trip before Baby Boy arrives. It was a relaxing time with loved ones. They too showered us with love and gifts. My mom shared a sweet devotional, and gifted us with a true treasure- <a href="http://www.childtrainingbible.com/" target="_blank">The Child Training Bible</a>.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW1HER7aBBtzRKlQC1lHlNYq4UBnxZzT8HWlG-HV00s8I4dHcaLPpTh3LqwOqC2IwxF2hA8FqhIZBdHA4X78X9Ei7AtYL202p2j76fC6GsU3GxkVYBWon_ykJzx2D4VI9pP3scs_w6_7Y/s1600/VermontTripCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW1HER7aBBtzRKlQC1lHlNYq4UBnxZzT8HWlG-HV00s8I4dHcaLPpTh3LqwOqC2IwxF2hA8FqhIZBdHA4X78X9Ei7AtYL202p2j76fC6GsU3GxkVYBWon_ykJzx2D4VI9pP3scs_w6_7Y/s640/VermontTripCollage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">June has been a month with no rest for the weary. We have been going steady with different events, appointments, and classes. We are eagerly anticipating the change in month, with *hopefully* some much needed rest and recuperation before the little man arrives.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Our church family here in Charlotte generously hosted a beautiful baby shower. As with the other showers, we are overwhelmed by the love shown to our little family of three.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Sg_0znLSKbJ_FQxf6mIVYWHX4gvVyIvUWk1nQ4Gz_MrfUEJgyh2TfHJ86fkSfThnW0cEqGKtAd3yZvi1uT4M3GrE9VML-RzGAbd_CcOT3S6TVomjVgtLu36IDUTi_Bkmi731Rnk8l4E/s1600/BBCBabyShowerCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Sg_0znLSKbJ_FQxf6mIVYWHX4gvVyIvUWk1nQ4Gz_MrfUEJgyh2TfHJ86fkSfThnW0cEqGKtAd3yZvi1uT4M3GrE9VML-RzGAbd_CcOT3S6TVomjVgtLu36IDUTi_Bkmi731Rnk8l4E/s640/BBCBabyShowerCollage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">(Photo credit: Amy T.)</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">And this brings us to the present. We are currently 35 weeks pregnant, and rejoicing in the sweet gift of our son that the Lord has given us. We had an appointment yesterday and everything seems to be looking great. He is an active little man with a strong heartbeat. We do not take this for granted. Please pray for us as we continue to prepare for his arrival, and the new adventure called "parenthood". We recognize that, like everything else, we can not do it in our own strength. We need His daily strength and wisdom.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Our other bit of exciting news that we give all glory to God for is that all of Daniel's school loans are paid off. As many of you know, the goal for our little family is overseas missions. The one thing standing in our way right now are some loans that both the mister and I accrued during college for our school payments. Being able to pay off all of his loans was a big testimony of God's goodness in our family, and a great mile markers in our journey towards the oversea mission field. We still owe about 40% of Rebekah's loans. We ask that you praise the Lord with us, and covet your prayers as we work diligently at finishing to pay off Rebekah's loans.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">To God be the glory, GREAT things HE has done!</span></i></div>
</div>
<span id="goog_505662685"></span><span id="goog_505662686"></span>Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03303548637594636998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-75253073834717558402016-07-06T21:50:00.000-04:002016-07-06T21:50:23.800-04:00We Moved!<span style="font-size: large;">This past weekend several men, and a few ladies, came over to our place and helped us move our things to our new home. As the crow flies, we moved about a tenth of a mile from our apartment. As the car drives, we now live about two miles away from our first home.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBeHVjbK16poYLzDp4MKHXB5fSbTUQ0v3BIYiwfC4mfjE21pLWVRP9hLVWRtRzK5LlkFfg4Hc78SFvlzj09Y0QFEdaXFIx_V5HSOYgfUBBJKzHuM43R-rVBhzTyFsIcnLUHt0vJiYMnpA/s1600/New+Keys.jpg"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBeHVjbK16poYLzDp4MKHXB5fSbTUQ0v3BIYiwfC4mfjE21pLWVRP9hLVWRtRzK5LlkFfg4Hc78SFvlzj09Y0QFEdaXFIx_V5HSOYgfUBBJKzHuM43R-rVBhzTyFsIcnLUHt0vJiYMnpA/s640/New+Keys.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />We are in awe of God's abundant provisions. Early last year, we got notice from our apartment complex that at the end of our lease (in February) we would need to move out of our current apartment to allow for the complex wide renovations they were making. They made the *generous* offer (sense sarcasm) for us to move to a different apartment on complex, at a 50% rent increase. While the renovations were beautiful, that was a large price jump that we were not prepared to make.<br /><br />Long story short, we began doing a lot of researching, only to learn that our rent was well below the average rental rate in our area. We chose to look at that as a blessing--we had three years of below average rent, allowing us to put more towards our student loans during that time. Our sinful human side struggled a bit with the "How are we going to make this work? Not only financially, but February is a busy time for a teacher."<br /><br />The Lord knew and provided for us to sign a 5-month lease at our current rental rate. This extended our lease to July, which is a much calmer time for a teacher. We signed the 5-month lease and continued our searches.<br /><br />We looked at several places, trying to weigh several different factors. It seemed as though we were finding a common trend--renting in the greater Charlotte area is expensive, especially compared to our income. I will admit that we even considered a few long distance moves (including Africa). We had found a few places in our budget that seemed to be good places, only to find out someone else would get them.<br /><br />It was Wednesday, June 15th when I set up an appointment with a local apartment complex to see one of their apartments the following week. Soon after getting off the phone with them, I found a town house for rent that had been listed for 16 hours (might I add it was even cheaper than the one we had just set up an appointment to see). The mister and I decided to give them a call and we set up an appointment to see the town house on Thursday. In talking with my mom, I asked that she pray my heart be guarded. The home looked beautiful online, but I wanted to be prepared that (a) someone could get it before us, and (b) it may not be as it seems.<br /><br />Before walking into the town house on Thursday afternoon with the property manager, she told us that they had already gotten over 75 calls for this property. When we walked into the townhouse it was dreamy. We both walked out agreeing that it was even better than it seemed online. There were several added bonuses that had not been pictured or mentioned.<br /><br />We heard back from the property manager on Friday, June 17th that we would be getting the town house, and could move in on July 1st--two weeks! To say we were excited would be an understatement. This home is far better than we were looking for, or that we need. There is no explanation other than to say that God has provided above and beyond what we have asked. We give Him the glory and pray that we be able to use this home to further His kingdom.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">---------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Since I last posted though, bigger than our move was my brother's wedding. We could not be more excited for he and his new bride! Their ceremony was be a vineyard, overlooking Lake Champlain. The weather was warm, windy, and cloudy. The whole afternoon was very God honoring as this new family began.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhnhVVMX09C_nmpmdcgfA9LPmN8BYA3JMS1Edanjj1e_4Vq099D8z8PY9vinfV9MIzpGMoPS9RZY4_Ix-K-cRWOHRjtu1BE6GnVrI7vd61x-qyO-kOZ263Ch7QJw4JX5vq0npwErE5jXc/s1600/Wedding+Weekend+Collage.jpg"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhnhVVMX09C_nmpmdcgfA9LPmN8BYA3JMS1Edanjj1e_4Vq099D8z8PY9vinfV9MIzpGMoPS9RZY4_Ix-K-cRWOHRjtu1BE6GnVrI7vd61x-qyO-kOZ263Ch7QJw4JX5vq0npwErE5jXc/s640/Wedding+Weekend+Collage.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3oILcQ7au5YP3qhlr9_7h8_-5cmRk_no1-Uo9b0Awpj8afCnnRGEAtQrE0-OrPl7l9ZL4opN9u6Hdt31XZtKPSryzThXNiTq8sVnu6Iw9ZzXWhAws96F5dkA3-CqcVSuDidphf7GcIo4/s1600/Wedding+Collage.jpg"></a><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0hf2WeVkuGU1kHtUfD1DYte5uyJ2bqnI178q6Qdypw11izkrBiRolCKDbhf3iaiXKLNpuZ99YAkSUplJkgCfJpN5yAM91isB2XRH9-hSXDMqPdG7Dz2VUap2ZGVAxxi3UbLOsSFZahHs/s1600/Wedding+Collage.jpg"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0hf2WeVkuGU1kHtUfD1DYte5uyJ2bqnI178q6Qdypw11izkrBiRolCKDbhf3iaiXKLNpuZ99YAkSUplJkgCfJpN5yAM91isB2XRH9-hSXDMqPdG7Dz2VUap2ZGVAxxi3UbLOsSFZahHs/s640/Wedding+Collage.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />We flew back to Charlotte on Sunday, and the mister then flew on to Ohio for some further training. In the past year, he has completed several classes. We are thankful for the opportunities that have been provided for him to further his training.<br /><br />On Wednesday, all fifteen of my 6th graders graduated. It was a bittersweet time, as these children I have grown to love dearly are moving on. A mother of a fifth grader decorated and hosted the graduation reception. </span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUI4yaC_yKhQ8c8vfqA-VuJKP5IBkqQYUS8zxUbK2VDyaDWwQA3b1loCyybIKqdCYwLN60rLe89AnmLPtvWR8VlAmHHVQGaLsrxRdb8tzEEujxBIOUBIjS3v44yja03NVdQn62EpX6Gzg/s1600/Graduation+Collage.jpg"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUI4yaC_yKhQ8c8vfqA-VuJKP5IBkqQYUS8zxUbK2VDyaDWwQA3b1loCyybIKqdCYwLN60rLe89AnmLPtvWR8VlAmHHVQGaLsrxRdb8tzEEujxBIOUBIjS3v44yja03NVdQn62EpX6Gzg/s640/Graduation+Collage.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />I have been enjoying my summer immensely. I recognize it as a gift and am very thankful. With the "extra" time, I have been able to invest more into relationships. One is through a <a href="http://jenwilkin.podbean.com/category/123-john/">study through 1st, 2nd, and 3rd John</a> with a dear college friend, Kari. She and I do the study on our own throughout the week, listen to the podcast, and then meet over Skype to discuss it. Another way is with reading through a book study on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/When-Sinners-Say-%2522I-Do%2522/dp/0976758261/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1467826369&sr=8-1&keywords=when+sinner+say+I+do">When Sinners Say I Do</a> with my sister. Both the study and time with these sweet woman has proven to be very rewarding. This very well may be one of me highlights from the summer.<br /><br />When I am not reading, studying, packing, or unpacking, I have enjoying baking. It was my goal to bake all of our bread this summer. The mister's mom is the queen of bread baking, and I have been using her recipe. Daniel keeps telling me "you need more practice" (his way of saying he liked it and wants me to make it again). I have also enjoyed trying a few other recipes. We have tried to spend our time intentionally this summer.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglpMVot0kvsRFPnf0DK-g1O3ddUqXWYFryboYCfgAM_73IwkK6-GvxeM8TYrZ_dZoH06b80_uZSGUnqGhIbmVinDB_hTc7-B9YoUu0gNu0NJrSg5IfwbKDgAv6TMOiO_yCI0rtoQjj-Yw/s1600/Summer+Fun+Collage.jpg"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglpMVot0kvsRFPnf0DK-g1O3ddUqXWYFryboYCfgAM_73IwkK6-GvxeM8TYrZ_dZoH06b80_uZSGUnqGhIbmVinDB_hTc7-B9YoUu0gNu0NJrSg5IfwbKDgAv6TMOiO_yCI0rtoQjj-Yw/s640/Summer+Fun+Collage.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />A month from today, my sister walks down the aisle and says "I do" to her sweetheart. As sister, I get the honor of standing beside her as she makes this lifelong commitment to Caleb. Part of my matron-of-honor privilege (and I do truly consider it just that) was to host a bridal shower. I flew to Vermont and along with my mom and sisters-in-law, we put together a fun celebration of my sister's upcoming marriage. Together with several sweet friends and family, we showered Sarah with gifts and love.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV_BNwmMTduSHy40eF4ZjrETyrFlxYWFaHuIG7aS1MURemvv4oU8zpu3pLwyHea_71JBHWCmlHoT7wc_njc3lH3NnFiFOz744Om7AhBgOdvqBe5Ib08J7hV3FT6tYa_5O7nN0AKMPvxMk/s1600/Shower+Collage.jpg"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV_BNwmMTduSHy40eF4ZjrETyrFlxYWFaHuIG7aS1MURemvv4oU8zpu3pLwyHea_71JBHWCmlHoT7wc_njc3lH3NnFiFOz744Om7AhBgOdvqBe5Ib08J7hV3FT6tYa_5O7nN0AKMPvxMk/s640/Shower+Collage.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />We are now settling into our new home and marveling at the fact that God would provide such a beautiful new home. We are thankful. Temperatures down here are hot, and make it a little more challenging for the mister as he works outside on the planes. Please pray for his safety.<br /><br />We are very excited when we look back at God's provisions towards our student loans. He continues to show Himself true.</span><br />
<ul><span style="font-size: large;">
<li>We have had a faithful monthly supporter for over a year.</li>
<li>We recently received a generous monetary gift with a note that said "God blessed us with this, and it is our joy to now bless you with it."</li>
<li>We had three years of below-average rental payments.</li>
</span></ul>
<span style="font-size: large;">
If there is a way that we can pray for you, please send us an email and let us know. We would love to join alongside you in lifting your requests before the throne. Thank you for how you join alongside us through prayer. We see God working!</span>Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03303548637594636998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-16866722657905233912016-05-09T21:26:00.000-04:002016-05-09T21:49:41.353-04:003 year Wedding Anniversary<span style="font-size: large;">This week, we will celebrate our 3-year anniversary. In a lot of ways, it feels like just yesterday we were preparing for our wedding. On the other hand, I look at how far we have come since our beginning days, and am thankful for how we have grown. More so than that, I am thankful that we are still young and have time to continually grow. We celebrated our anniversary this past weekend with a gift card because we will be leaving for Vermont on our anniversary. My brother and his sweet fiancee are getting married this Saturday!</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjYptVafruKpClZsMIS4IZgzpzycei8zWMTdp58Bfu2x8urgxos_Eh5c1KrAX43a5qEEIP1A8V6oQ7ZglyGdgNP49SGxhb1xN4QXkYTKuLR0MCtUpnyAnZJXpJPL9Kw-fYfzIRi8VuanI/s1600/S%2526L+Blog+Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjYptVafruKpClZsMIS4IZgzpzycei8zWMTdp58Bfu2x8urgxos_Eh5c1KrAX43a5qEEIP1A8V6oQ7ZglyGdgNP49SGxhb1xN4QXkYTKuLR0MCtUpnyAnZJXpJPL9Kw-fYfzIRi8VuanI/s640/S%2526L+Blog+Edit.jpg" width="432" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Used with permission.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">These past few weeks have been crazy busy, and I find myself very eager for summer. The current plan is that I will be taking the summer off from teaching. We are looking forward to two weddings this summer (see the end of <a href="http://ourlittlefamily-miller.blogspot.com/2016/01/happy-thanksgiving-merry-christmas-and.html" target="_blank">this post</a>), a wedding shower in Vermont, and a local move. The mister and I were talking just last night about how we are oddly looking forward to our move. We enjoy de-cluttering, and look forward to the time, and necessity, of going through our things to see what can be thrown/given away.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">School has been crazy busy between final projects, extra activities, and general spring-time craziness. <i>In case you were not already aware, the Christian School I work at is a K3-12 grade school. In the elementary grades 1-6th grade, we only have three teachers- the 1st/2nd grade teacher, the 3rd/4th grade teacher, and myself.</i> The 3rd/4th grade teacher and myself collaborate a lot, and try to find ways to join forces to do fun activities for our classes. She and I have been working together a lot to break up the spring-time craziness with some fun activities. Here are a few of the things we have already done.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYFiW7mkO09H1h_zQxPi7h08YOLkfCrIlZVyECHIjrnJ_dIX01ThDDGmxxsAhlkLLXC5gXz-3oi5NY0el3TygOXCUyif_qJTxkxO4QvSQTOv3CAJ3MErJwc4_NxxzGEc_HA7m95tUejI/s1600/EndofSchool+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYFiW7mkO09H1h_zQxPi7h08YOLkfCrIlZVyECHIjrnJ_dIX01ThDDGmxxsAhlkLLXC5gXz-3oi5NY0el3TygOXCUyif_qJTxkxO4QvSQTOv3CAJ3MErJwc4_NxxzGEc_HA7m95tUejI/s640/EndofSchool+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">(Top Left: Friday was an all day "Bike Day!", Bottom Left: After the students put in a 12-hour day of competition, we had a pancake and movie morning on Friday, and Bottom Right: The students who read 1,000+ minutes throughout the month of May were invited to an ice cream party during lunch)</span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">As for us personally, we went to an air show last weekend. Everyone knows my mister loves planes, but my love of planes continues to grow. I am fascinated by them. It helps that I have a wonderful teacher who loves to answer my many questions. It was a cold and overcast day, but we had a great time, and were able to see the Blue Angels!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglMCCJoA7kS9NSG6tIr3GBl2zDMaJ4mGkp1gRV3BFZsjlQtogDT_BrIyR7Y-SEY-fvRu5qctsEbNEHqw687Ewc_-p0Mn1TVXfPv-TqJ8VtnLPJon0n-9VIfR8d7oiUkBW1pMdYpZR_8q8/s1600/Airshow+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglMCCJoA7kS9NSG6tIr3GBl2zDMaJ4mGkp1gRV3BFZsjlQtogDT_BrIyR7Y-SEY-fvRu5qctsEbNEHqw687Ewc_-p0Mn1TVXfPv-TqJ8VtnLPJon0n-9VIfR8d7oiUkBW1pMdYpZR_8q8/s640/Airshow+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">All this to say, life has been very busy, but very good. We thank you for supporting us through prayer. We continue to look ahead to the foreign mission field, while trying to make the most of the mission field He has us on now. We continue to pursue our goal of being debt free by the end of 2016. Here are a few specific prayer requests.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<u><span style="font-size: large;">Requests:</span></u></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Health and stamina for Rebekah as she finishes the school year</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Debt free by the end of 2016</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Wisdom in choosing a new home</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Wisdom in selecting a mission board to serve with</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<u><span style="font-size: large;">Praises:</span></u></div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">A student in Rebekah's class accepted Christ last month</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Daniel's continued advancement at work allowing him to hold a first shift position</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">3 years of serving God together as a married couple</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">His provisions in how far we have come on our school loans in the past 3 years</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03303548637594636998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-19326542028487434002016-03-13T20:02:00.000-04:002016-03-13T20:02:29.536-04:00Happy Spring!<span style="font-size: large;">I am not doing too well at this blogging thing. Life has hit reality for the two of us and is too crazy. Every quiet moment we get, we find ourselves savoring it with each other. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">A crazy life has its ups and downs. We are thankful for the many opportunities we have been given to do things and be involved in peoples' lives, but at the same time, I think there is such a thing as "too busy". We feel we may be walking the line. Therefore, we are trying to be mindful of this. That being said, blogging has taken a "back burner" seat.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The mister carefully prepared a wonderful weekend of relaxation for me. The thoughtful and aware husband that he is sensed that I was verging the point of breakdown and thought out some practical ways to help me take a few days to rest. It started with my coming home on Friday to our home being meticulously cleaned. He knows me well and knows a clean home is a big thing for me (I know, it won't always be like that). His words were "You can sleep in tomorrow without having to think of cleaning the house." I did just that. I woke up way later than I care to admit. He then suggested we go for a picnic. We had a great time grilling hot dogs, laying in the hammock, and walking around the lake. I am thankful for my mister, and his sweet ways of saying "I love and care about you."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCGsQZ6_npXO6X0SeNV2n-jDZv-9Qw06VnxelDfcXYT17hr5qndad0Xr4FyoBl-9ztvXrjTMoNk-DeuOg8jlruKzs8rzTlj1n7vhSwlQK6Cx9SvWtprQ-ix-FrDu8WzsD1b4k06UnQt7c/s1600/Picnic+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCGsQZ6_npXO6X0SeNV2n-jDZv-9Qw06VnxelDfcXYT17hr5qndad0Xr4FyoBl-9ztvXrjTMoNk-DeuOg8jlruKzs8rzTlj1n7vhSwlQK6Cx9SvWtprQ-ix-FrDu8WzsD1b4k06UnQt7c/s640/Picnic+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">For Christmas, we didn't exchange gifts with each other. Instead we set the money aside to do an event together. We chose to go to the circus, since it was in our area, and supposedly this is their last year of doing it with elephants. We made a date out of the evening, and had a great time together.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGhK-YutFUbOfvV8W0jY7SU_zwKaNqlojBki9b8Q3FxJaY5LEbkgsmJWgLp9ERmH4eXuDNiEJZDETX3dnMaA1hAAcBZzhq9-a3RrCSAlh9CC_ApW-QQyKFRevx1HdBSiIJusUzOr17J4/s1600/Circus2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGhK-YutFUbOfvV8W0jY7SU_zwKaNqlojBki9b8Q3FxJaY5LEbkgsmJWgLp9ERmH4eXuDNiEJZDETX3dnMaA1hAAcBZzhq9-a3RrCSAlh9CC_ApW-QQyKFRevx1HdBSiIJusUzOr17J4/s640/Circus2016.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Then in February, we were able to celebrate Valentines Day together. I made shrimp alfredo! We enjoyed an evening in together. How thankful I am for my sweetheart and the gift he is from God.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfcl7-WILIDlUYdIyjC4WLpxtR8KUNwSILdJXPx6vFY_XgzglIfxBj34bcHNscjTjrLBNf6xNJPrrZrnZZ-Y08Ze5zFAmX2U4MlkUeTH0kS4YnvBT0nL61ZsfZP8BIEAPHy9p1xYUKElE/s1600/IMG_5271+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfcl7-WILIDlUYdIyjC4WLpxtR8KUNwSILdJXPx6vFY_XgzglIfxBj34bcHNscjTjrLBNf6xNJPrrZrnZZ-Y08Ze5zFAmX2U4MlkUeTH0kS4YnvBT0nL61ZsfZP8BIEAPHy9p1xYUKElE/s640/IMG_5271+edit.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">That about sums up the exciting stuff from the last two months. We continue to watch God help us work away at school loans, and recognize His hand in our lives. It is exciting to know that He is continuing to work in and through our lives.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Until next time, enjoy spring (with my track record, I should probably tell you to enjoy summer as well)!</span>Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03303548637594636998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-90409279271452452952016-01-10T15:57:00.001-05:002016-01-10T16:05:44.684-05:00Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, and Happy 2016!<span style="font-size: large;">And just like that, a quarter of a year goes by. Needless to say, the last three months have been a bit busy, hectic, and wonderful all at the same time. Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year to you.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Let me give you an update via pictures, because we all know those are more interesting (plus I have seen the sweet kiddos <i>twice</i> in the last three months, so better pictures) than too many words.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">For Thanksgiving, we went to the mister's grandfather's house where we enjoyed the day with extended family. Most everyone was able to make it this year and it was a joy to spend the day together. Straight from there, we drove to the mister's sister's home for a weekend with his immediate family. We enjoyed the few days together, and while we had everyone, celebrated Christmas.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjplLM3-7UQQ0HH5BgJFfjvrb2zRgGh4lp3Fi3VHubk-NC7iulot-s9enGcqgFKvgW2qvh6NUSvNzCwG352oCzFIPamboZcBYa8fHJH4K1Ig25uKroStdLKtB0RUCHU15_OGEcOpTh5qKk/s1600/MillerFamily2015.jpg" imageanchor="1"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjplLM3-7UQQ0HH5BgJFfjvrb2zRgGh4lp3Fi3VHubk-NC7iulot-s9enGcqgFKvgW2qvh6NUSvNzCwG352oCzFIPamboZcBYa8fHJH4K1Ig25uKroStdLKtB0RUCHU15_OGEcOpTh5qKk/s640/MillerFamily2015.jpg" width="640" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6WZO9n7Z59LJNq929zds-HHFlLflhaMNZDkpycgxRzfLKNToAtG6rMgkFuD8OHCRSXRj55mxV5qwpE_OdV8-1x8OZyN_8-3i96dUzsYnpqN2Xhc4SfwoOX4T234e1g24ehT-dAblBEkM/s1600/Nieces+and+Nephew.jpg" imageanchor="1"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6WZO9n7Z59LJNq929zds-HHFlLflhaMNZDkpycgxRzfLKNToAtG6rMgkFuD8OHCRSXRj55mxV5qwpE_OdV8-1x8OZyN_8-3i96dUzsYnpqN2Xhc4SfwoOX4T234e1g24ehT-dAblBEkM/s640/Nieces+and+Nephew.jpg" width="640" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwlCQK11Lmy1Jz0IlfqADEH0HVS6j9zehI-kRzpC-xm4kuJvYrW27KFskSdsIzN7pavwwRe_pM0mMfgpiPIt-n0wDxpmD2WTIxYBq6YInSGT2dOXfUNn9rSaLGXDLa6y8_pzfF4DGp2XE/s1600/Miller+Christmas+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwlCQK11Lmy1Jz0IlfqADEH0HVS6j9zehI-kRzpC-xm4kuJvYrW27KFskSdsIzN7pavwwRe_pM0mMfgpiPIt-n0wDxpmD2WTIxYBq6YInSGT2dOXfUNn9rSaLGXDLa6y8_pzfF4DGp2XE/s640/Miller+Christmas+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">From there, we came home for a couple of weeks of "normal life" where work continues to go well for both of us. I have added four new students in the last month. It has added some extra challenges in having bigger numbers, but I continue to rejoice that the Lord placed them in my class. It is not by accident. I need them, and they need our class. Please continue to pray that I have wisdom as I approach each and every moment. This year has opened my eyes to how very needy I am for His wisdom.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The mister's work is also going well. When we look back on this year, we are in awe of what the Lord has, and is doing. He has had a few glimpses of hearts being softened towards spiritual topics. We continue to pray for additional open doors to share the gospel and to be His hands and feet in the secular work field. Work has been busy with several planes needing the mister's attention.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We had a low key Christmas between the two of us this year, and tried to soak in the sweet times we had together. For Christmas, the mister's sisters gave us a date to the Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens to see their Christmas lights. I have been wanting to go since we moved to the area, and so we had fun making a date night out of it. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0QPkl-U6aVfkx3Z-2Q65CILtNq9z4jizPjkezf9EgQWqNchsNrfUCbBraQojtL-IM6_dyMFn1_ToL3-TglRy0bdE5_5CYF6LsPA-NLI-AQBd_QhaNYTcwNg55ucbpcjKPDqbm0POQ-Sc/s1600/Orchid+Tree+Edited.jpg" imageanchor="1"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0QPkl-U6aVfkx3Z-2Q65CILtNq9z4jizPjkezf9EgQWqNchsNrfUCbBraQojtL-IM6_dyMFn1_ToL3-TglRy0bdE5_5CYF6LsPA-NLI-AQBd_QhaNYTcwNg55ucbpcjKPDqbm0POQ-Sc/s640/Orchid+Tree+Edited.jpg" width="640" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">On the Wednesday before Christmas, we drove to Vermont. It rained the entire time, making the final destination even more wonderful. We enjoyed the time with my side of the family. We first celebrated with my immediate family on Christmas morning, and then a bunch of extended family traveled in on Saturday.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirhdQVoIhxUn7c7cQ53EgagwGJOpOI3ON0I10eFpoGX7PGGptRMdABO3Fj9k_tFZ8tc06qyVjVvrcwU2YnZ1zivhbfbGap0eQp3OM5FcbhCjK6N1AOmELV8d_A8tcldrimtyEpgny1mQg/s1600/MeigsFamilyCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirhdQVoIhxUn7c7cQ53EgagwGJOpOI3ON0I10eFpoGX7PGGptRMdABO3Fj9k_tFZ8tc06qyVjVvrcwU2YnZ1zivhbfbGap0eQp3OM5FcbhCjK6N1AOmELV8d_A8tcldrimtyEpgny1mQg/s640/MeigsFamilyCollage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD1TkTUMw3VwvSMZKF-wnhAq0XEYif6K3s5lFDUuF49cpp4EHHf8HnEDDo1etyd8PyOHEBR2V0V6kjvsloL9n77ZXV_5ip5I5qRhWnyVythyBQWWt3PumrZelmGuMltyWO-nzSlbYU5Lg/s1600/Hewitt+Family+Christmas+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD1TkTUMw3VwvSMZKF-wnhAq0XEYif6K3s5lFDUuF49cpp4EHHf8HnEDDo1etyd8PyOHEBR2V0V6kjvsloL9n77ZXV_5ip5I5qRhWnyVythyBQWWt3PumrZelmGuMltyWO-nzSlbYU5Lg/s640/Hewitt+Family+Christmas+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We drove home from Vermont and then a few days later drove to the mister's parents for New Years. Yes, we did a lot of traveling--over forty-three hours in fact. The few days spent with his parents was quiet and refreshing. The mister was able to get a few projects done with his dad, and I was able to do some crafting and visiting with his mom. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">While we were there, both my older brother, and younger sister got engaged. We are so excited for both of these couples, and how the Lord will use them for His ministry as couples.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-WsmTeYPja2yoWbTdl5l55FQert8rvdAS-FC6fderM-5XOsSwPHSEjIlRFOeSG4kxrO00ctjAQ16S_Sxd_W1kjb1Or4OdX3-n6e-0NQSQvWst-fvz3xnbmoU3EN8Xb7jBBSsxfdeLdss/s1600/Engagement+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-WsmTeYPja2yoWbTdl5l55FQert8rvdAS-FC6fderM-5XOsSwPHSEjIlRFOeSG4kxrO00ctjAQ16S_Sxd_W1kjb1Or4OdX3-n6e-0NQSQvWst-fvz3xnbmoU3EN8Xb7jBBSsxfdeLdss/s640/Engagement+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">After a busy break of visiting extended family, and enjoying our little family of two, we find ourselves extra thankful for the gift of family. We trust you had a sweet holiday (Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years) season and were able to think on the many ways you have seen God work in the past year. Happy 2016 to you! Hopefully I will do better this year in getting a monthly update out to you all.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">If you are interested in receiving our Christmas newsletter, please email me to be added to our email mailing list.</span></i>Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03303548637594636998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-28415331940466983672015-10-04T20:48:00.001-04:002015-10-04T20:58:52.830-04:00Happy Fall!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Fall is my favorite time of the year--cooler temperatures, hot drinks, colorful leaves, rain, all things pumpkin, sweatshirts, apple picking, crunchy leaves, and the list could. go. on. forever.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">School is off to a great start! While it is not without its challenges, I love my job. I cannot describe the difference this new position has been. I must confess, while I had some hesitation to teaching this age, and a combo class at that, God has been working in my heart. I am loving my job! Lesson preparations take a lot more work, grading takes much longer, and I sense a more seriousness in having to prepare them for middle school. Despite these added challenges, I can't see myself doing anything else. God is so good!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">One of my favorite things about being an adult is being able to take a situation and determine if the "consequences" are worth it. For the mister and I, the question usually goes something like this, "Is it worth how exhausted we will be afterwards?" And the answer usually goes like this, "Eh, we are young and will bounce back afterwards. We only live once and don't want to regret saying "no" to this because we didn't want to sacrifice our energy." Most of the time, we are thankful we "went for it", despite how exhausted we may be afterwards.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The first day of school, we chose to go visit the mister's sister who lives an hour and a half away, because she was getting her new German Shepherd puppy.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSSkwQ9dbI4PvbjR1Ojo3_83Ltreik8QQU3IGf8sqaP3uD41mDOxV_-Lg3YGWh2MlLZVUZZggpi_SpkWw54OIAjnOQS89QTlQ0iPcublSCTP-6JXB2NrmJ24etKfZM9MZK1SorVVnvkGU/s1600/SarahandRebel2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="529" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSSkwQ9dbI4PvbjR1Ojo3_83Ltreik8QQU3IGf8sqaP3uD41mDOxV_-Lg3YGWh2MlLZVUZZggpi_SpkWw54OIAjnOQS89QTlQ0iPcublSCTP-6JXB2NrmJ24etKfZM9MZK1SorVVnvkGU/s640/SarahandRebel2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The following Monday, the mister left for a two week training on Eddy Current Inspection. It was good timing though because I had a lot of extra work to be done at school with it just having started. He has been able to get several extra training this year. While I miss him terribly, we see this as an opportunity to prepare for the mission field. We don't know what he will need on the field, and so we are thankful for these times when he is able to be trained further in his career.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">While the mister was on training, he had a birthday! I was able to fly out Friday night and spend the weekend with him. While we were out there, we went to the National Museum United States Air Force. It was huge, and it was amazing. Since marrying the mister, my interest in avionics has increased exponentially. I learned a lot at the museum, but enjoyed the time with my man most.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRiWLkse21pJUOg171X2yZp_A57eM2Lw9BYDmEPfGbpt8-c_fRUVeaLCrJ2M3eswX_aLKNVqCGUZKId2FS4sncsAzw1RR5cd82vNGkdPBvnn8aVDxojUybiAXyuMGFXJ0u5Sn95sJA4rY/s1600/HappyBirthdayDaniel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRiWLkse21pJUOg171X2yZp_A57eM2Lw9BYDmEPfGbpt8-c_fRUVeaLCrJ2M3eswX_aLKNVqCGUZKId2FS4sncsAzw1RR5cd82vNGkdPBvnn8aVDxojUybiAXyuMGFXJ0u5Sn95sJA4rY/s640/HappyBirthdayDaniel.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPR_NZikN-XmSgf_311FLtcI4leuHXzuy4enJUBdqiiiPQ5DM06a8Ey38m1b6h8LhdQwvG7bwUED7yISIcdFgJLh6rqgKz1Psj6OFnJiB1cu9QaHY9LDJidMWHaWrk-AFQ-GsnXZ1KERo/s1600/AirForceMuseum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPR_NZikN-XmSgf_311FLtcI4leuHXzuy4enJUBdqiiiPQ5DM06a8Ey38m1b6h8LhdQwvG7bwUED7yISIcdFgJLh6rqgKz1Psj6OFnJiB1cu9QaHY9LDJidMWHaWrk-AFQ-GsnXZ1KERo/s640/AirForceMuseum.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The mister got home on Friday, did a load of laundry, and then we went to his parents for the weekend with his sister and puppy. It was a relaxing weekend together.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_fNbQV8o44F4M00AO8v2RxE7XsBtcDT0uGXb07hu9RkwHNl7S3f1jwXMV7Sa_Lql_bqdt7XFr8RvP-QnfSsHxXdbIlD7bNLuSBunRxnpwQGnpT1UcwsT8-5DUtBJrqnr9Nan976-ZZrA/s1600/LaborDay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_fNbQV8o44F4M00AO8v2RxE7XsBtcDT0uGXb07hu9RkwHNl7S3f1jwXMV7Sa_Lql_bqdt7XFr8RvP-QnfSsHxXdbIlD7bNLuSBunRxnpwQGnpT1UcwsT8-5DUtBJrqnr9Nan976-ZZrA/s640/LaborDay.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">A few weekends later we were able to catch up on some much needed time together. We had a day on the road, which ended with apple picking and time with family. The time together was refreshing. With the apples I was able to can four pints of apple sauce. Four pints are embarrassing compared to the twenty quarts I used to help my mom with, but it was a fun project.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7MYgIAehN8t3a1I9cT9J2rwuBGNcJW7MIogklYvWNuU5inBOfQRc_Qn1CQnQwyH76vagtU79sEPShV7xbh60X8oIttVHB3_H014Ez-LAJHeqZZ0O-LHA6MK7R67xsPzp2CSF4AxEV6Q/s1600/Happyfall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7MYgIAehN8t3a1I9cT9J2rwuBGNcJW7MIogklYvWNuU5inBOfQRc_Qn1CQnQwyH76vagtU79sEPShV7xbh60X8oIttVHB3_H014Ez-LAJHeqZZ0O-LHA6MK7R67xsPzp2CSF4AxEV6Q/s640/Happyfall.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">All of this to say...our little family is loving this season! We are loving this season of our marriage. We are loving this season of weather, We are loving this season of life that the Lord has us in.</span>Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03303548637594636998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-38955206938558697242015-08-14T19:04:00.003-04:002015-08-14T21:32:15.583-04:00Classroom Reveal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">This school year, I will be residing at the end of the very long hallway. The opposite end from the restroom, and the opposite side of the building from the copy machine. Hello exercise!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to my classroom! I have 19 students total- 5 fifth graders, and 14 sixth graders. Having the "big kids", I needed a mature theme, so I decided to go with the timeless chalkboard theme. There are so many helpful decorating ideas and resources on this theme.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPh1WYKyBNtaFboxNtAro8kUKyT87IyuEBUs4up7cGnAQHL5CmIYHSS6EsXaRtBySrHVG8CqmTMdZwsvMBIilq1bngdQtApQWpqBhvQuEwwrWgctTCw2QTVmNS0iU6883jkqr1hOnmkP0/s1600/IMG_3510+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPh1WYKyBNtaFboxNtAro8kUKyT87IyuEBUs4up7cGnAQHL5CmIYHSS6EsXaRtBySrHVG8CqmTMdZwsvMBIilq1bngdQtApQWpqBhvQuEwwrWgctTCw2QTVmNS0iU6883jkqr1hOnmkP0/s640/IMG_3510+edit.jpg" width="428" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">As soon as you step in, <strike>this is what you see!</strike> this is what you would have seen Thursday afternoon, before any students stepped foot in my classroom! Papers are missing, books are no longer perfectly in their baskets, s'mores have been consumed, and things are no longer quite as crisp! That is okay with me though. As much as I love organization, I want my classroom to be used and have signs of 5th/6th graders living in it {and we all know that does not equate to organization}.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmbYXzariuJ2lqw4d3jDRrfe2yohR5FjPrPp-4OcBf41ewrHymSw0hM-MYGAySAyV6TKH46R8cbdKJekXN6lvDgCTHm5bgGly3hD79wZAHMN6q9GEStutreT3svGT_l-Em72OMo1qjLuI/s1600/IMG_3511+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmbYXzariuJ2lqw4d3jDRrfe2yohR5FjPrPp-4OcBf41ewrHymSw0hM-MYGAySAyV6TKH46R8cbdKJekXN6lvDgCTHm5bgGly3hD79wZAHMN6q9GEStutreT3svGT_l-Em72OMo1qjLuI/s640/IMG_3511+edit.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Most parents at our school have multiple children, and that means they have multiple classrooms to go to, and teachers to meet. My goal was to simplify things for parents in having two categories: colored papers to fill out immediately, and white papers to go home. The s'mores were a success with the students! I got the great idea over at <a href="http://gingersnapstreatsforteachers.blogspot.com/2014/08/first-week-craziness.html" target="_blank">Ginger Snaps</a>, and she even provided a free printable.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOpRecxKzo3kuyqnkyY7NBH-xglz3rrBH4TrZS-Qd383qgRGrCnOmoS1E-U4hvTJYYPL6Lt1_wjZw4gncZzaOLtZ-x2l92SJeu1AT4pHF_e-OoY6iOmztvXObT_Lh8alP8trtWngkufWE/s1600/IMG_3512+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOpRecxKzo3kuyqnkyY7NBH-xglz3rrBH4TrZS-Qd383qgRGrCnOmoS1E-U4hvTJYYPL6Lt1_wjZw4gncZzaOLtZ-x2l92SJeu1AT4pHF_e-OoY6iOmztvXObT_Lh8alP8trtWngkufWE/s640/IMG_3512+edit.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Another thing you may have noticed is that I chose to put the name tags on the back of the chairs, instead of the top of the desk. We shall see how this works out.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbiBVuwjrQdU5w67tdKMm8_TIfELzIvMkCK423PW2NImuJ9fw27M62uSQhDB_ZFV7ul4GUu0H6-WDYSSmWaR9nx067-Q_D3tbCLqhkGLRor0sOw1ric1xjqRniyhYGcRG7r-Dv41_kcEE/s1600/IMG_3514+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbiBVuwjrQdU5w67tdKMm8_TIfELzIvMkCK423PW2NImuJ9fw27M62uSQhDB_ZFV7ul4GUu0H6-WDYSSmWaR9nx067-Q_D3tbCLqhkGLRor0sOw1ric1xjqRniyhYGcRG7r-Dv41_kcEE/s640/IMG_3514+edit.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">May I say how thankful I am for the quality supplies and facilities my school provides for the teachers. I am not just talking about this amazingly huge desk, but the technology, cubbies, storage closets, and overall general quality of most everything. This year, I added a lamp to my desk and am already loving the warmth it adds to the atmosphere.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYFt2s_Tx_LFl4tOB4xXyiS9M8Y-yjFXon8Oj4XKcr4ubkXTVMbzCawyayzodH7tq1eTEnYMpWLFtkcHgdQ-pM5rNPTYyCZ_XO_ncUn4hahLkHsa2Je-fDOcfjW8T_XGML6uBE7pTABmY/s1600/IMG_3515+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYFt2s_Tx_LFl4tOB4xXyiS9M8Y-yjFXon8Oj4XKcr4ubkXTVMbzCawyayzodH7tq1eTEnYMpWLFtkcHgdQ-pM5rNPTYyCZ_XO_ncUn4hahLkHsa2Je-fDOcfjW8T_XGML6uBE7pTABmY/s640/IMG_3515+edit.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX8uQW19_ZTBFAXO7dAvlMOuKBzZT3PdCU2EW314CgCEdcSUcnQQbiO8yDSHWHI_CxfRfrgUXBiHUSc_LtpTEYaKM7TvkBICOqM_8HwzmdVNJVPnYTjMJNMiVHLviciitvslmAXKFZNCo/s1600/IMG_3517+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX8uQW19_ZTBFAXO7dAvlMOuKBzZT3PdCU2EW314CgCEdcSUcnQQbiO8yDSHWHI_CxfRfrgUXBiHUSc_LtpTEYaKM7TvkBICOqM_8HwzmdVNJVPnYTjMJNMiVHLviciitvslmAXKFZNCo/s640/IMG_3517+edit.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">While I was <i>so nervous </i>about Back to School Night! last night, it went so well. Some of the situations I was most nervous about went smoothly and in the end I was very thankful for the evening. I had some wonderful conversations and learned a lot. It got me even more excited about the school year- if that was possible! No year is without its challenges, but I expect it to be a phenomenal year.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywYWdzXRT8my8pQ2yo2XLcrtXKM75WGFkXBhFvfHd42hXL3Fos8TtlZCmQts5-GtSW-bG6OE3PgghdI5eSHW35ph_UZ9IC9sR3oDIg11JCK9XY1lgv8OAvmzSztGgKAnEeOMy5tSwp4o/s1600/IMG_3518+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywYWdzXRT8my8pQ2yo2XLcrtXKM75WGFkXBhFvfHd42hXL3Fos8TtlZCmQts5-GtSW-bG6OE3PgghdI5eSHW35ph_UZ9IC9sR3oDIg11JCK9XY1lgv8OAvmzSztGgKAnEeOMy5tSwp4o/s640/IMG_3518+edit.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Daniel and I have been praying for years for a full time teaching position, and He has answered. My personal goal this year is to deepen my prayer life to remain very aware that I am not doing this alone. I can only be successful with His strength, wisdom, and guidance. The spiritual theme I have for our class this year is that in everything, we seek to glorify Christ. When we are seeking that, everything else will fall into place because we are doing our best for Him!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I covet your prayers as school starts Monday!</span></div>
Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03303548637594636998noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-85109605237794975792015-07-15T20:05:00.000-04:002015-07-15T20:05:35.448-04:00Busy. Busy. Busy.<span style="font-size: large;">Wow. We have had a busy few weeks recently. Here is a picture recap of our Summer 2015 adventures together as Mr. and Mrs.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">At the end of June, we took some time off from work to go visit my parents in Vermont. It was a delightful time. We had been having a heat wave here, and their weather was so comfortable. Better than the weather was the time with all of the family. We were able to rest, love on the nieces and nephew, weed-wack, and visit lots!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8C_EqJDanCoqnRKApWe6nPLiudWIvniDPn6q8DcDgH7yA-0A1AFPl3A0KtjlmBsy8BX_lA-0Oiunbl9SqZr4D_B65KvA75sLNGJhTjnvQeWn-RXoNdkfK18ptUG6QOB-pUGqpT_4sb28/s1600/VT+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8C_EqJDanCoqnRKApWe6nPLiudWIvniDPn6q8DcDgH7yA-0A1AFPl3A0KtjlmBsy8BX_lA-0Oiunbl9SqZr4D_B65KvA75sLNGJhTjnvQeWn-RXoNdkfK18ptUG6QOB-pUGqpT_4sb28/s640/VT+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We got back from Vermont in time to celebrate Independence Day at home, just the two of us. We ate well and found an amazing spot to watch the fireworks. We drove the Mountaineer, and put the back seats down. Since we got there early, we opened up the back hatch and played Phase 10 in the back. The weather was breezy. The fireworks were spectacular!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD_H9XJaweMMUoNWHVYNtVgj1cAYEWVLfAc9_WcChyi9Q_houNCDkE5xGq5XNtoNDugk4u0oI9kB2e8t_xDaDfjxNR2D2rvs_sJFGAHEmF6Yymab1aqgwIzDWv1IPkJ4btCospU_WLTcw/s1600/4th+food+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD_H9XJaweMMUoNWHVYNtVgj1cAYEWVLfAc9_WcChyi9Q_houNCDkE5xGq5XNtoNDugk4u0oI9kB2e8t_xDaDfjxNR2D2rvs_sJFGAHEmF6Yymab1aqgwIzDWv1IPkJ4btCospU_WLTcw/s640/4th+food+collage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0hSiLkNIuK-unM8bmMZYdsb2RjYQMyv29XOGw898mw2_3A7onb1IO6Vm4iX9AzM4uFXKZpJlc1I6_GaFUH_Lbd5iamZy_QA3W2bEqnOEH-pIy8TenHY-bemK0AD5LM-_ky6iW6xgKAW4/s1600/Fireworks+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0hSiLkNIuK-unM8bmMZYdsb2RjYQMyv29XOGw898mw2_3A7onb1IO6Vm4iX9AzM4uFXKZpJlc1I6_GaFUH_Lbd5iamZy_QA3W2bEqnOEH-pIy8TenHY-bemK0AD5LM-_ky6iW6xgKAW4/s640/Fireworks+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The celebrations continued as my mister spoiled me for my birthday. Food related, he made me waffles for breakfast before work (I leave for work about 6:10am), bang bang shrimp for dinner, and a frozen peanut butter cheesecake for dessert. He worked hard, and we enjoyed the fruits of his labors. The spoiling continued with his giving me a market bag and new cricut cartridge, both things I had been wanting!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOY_-kPh4cj6ebCZGRcUIMmp9OfB6N4dhHI6iv5dUCxOCgIPK0UoVpAQMTSRBC0ooc82o8g_smYKDmPIqaZSSHRep4Z3vBQwgB5JKZgePJH356AiR-Ayoy-FbHao6XemiSbdXpT_bhTxg/s1600/b.day+meals+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOY_-kPh4cj6ebCZGRcUIMmp9OfB6N4dhHI6iv5dUCxOCgIPK0UoVpAQMTSRBC0ooc82o8g_smYKDmPIqaZSSHRep4Z3vBQwgB5JKZgePJH356AiR-Ayoy-FbHao6XemiSbdXpT_bhTxg/s640/b.day+meals+collage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ48DGgOVmRmSKAL3mt72M4qchZ5eO5cpqfLE8vM9NpQW7dAbaKe9l-6VTuTUvw6XmDoS5KVr1tAS062A0Z6hc3WQexNYNHOKsziXsRCTODkwvKsljJnj0n7OH_04ET3ISxjBJsxoSHcE/s1600/bday+gifts+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ48DGgOVmRmSKAL3mt72M4qchZ5eO5cpqfLE8vM9NpQW7dAbaKe9l-6VTuTUvw6XmDoS5KVr1tAS062A0Z6hc3WQexNYNHOKsziXsRCTODkwvKsljJnj0n7OH_04ET3ISxjBJsxoSHcE/s640/bday+gifts+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Yesterday, we took a day trip to meet up with the mister's parents at the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro. We had a blast. The weather was amazing, and so many of the animals put on a show for their small audience by coming close to the fence. Of the many exhibits we walked around to, we only missed getting to see the red fox. We figure he was hiding behind one of the rocks. Overall, the day was a spectacular success!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRqq6YyJqQAig8_tUJp9EjjH1vQHzvgQ2r6CQamY4_VtUKVs1hs1eKxhBNIVcF6Yqx478B0H6oh8-SqDc2r35XKW6YiuNkOhLQfg3iSMo1NCiWb1FU_D2uyM9HZic7didzPREuYo6sGgM/s1600/Zoo+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRqq6YyJqQAig8_tUJp9EjjH1vQHzvgQ2r6CQamY4_VtUKVs1hs1eKxhBNIVcF6Yqx478B0H6oh8-SqDc2r35XKW6YiuNkOhLQfg3iSMo1NCiWb1FU_D2uyM9HZic7didzPREuYo6sGgM/s640/Zoo+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">We saw these sweet fawns as we were walking one of the paths. They were not in a cage. After seeing them, we saw this poem posted on the side of the path.</span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-pBsimn5p2v_EujccIsU1MUO2ph7taMrMVE-ipbRCvf2tVoyCJi9XbgFNmxHqzmBY_Anp-BWXSn1AF3-bBgkF0D7sJCI51G5aLviXKrvOg8ERzU9Ka09HVfhf8QWbpWHi0LjjoL54QWQ/s1600/fawn+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-pBsimn5p2v_EujccIsU1MUO2ph7taMrMVE-ipbRCvf2tVoyCJi9XbgFNmxHqzmBY_Anp-BWXSn1AF3-bBgkF0D7sJCI51G5aLviXKrvOg8ERzU9Ka09HVfhf8QWbpWHi0LjjoL54QWQ/s640/fawn+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">While we have been having a blast, we feel a bit like this polar bear that we saw yesterday...absolutely exhausted. Despite how tired we may be, we have enjoyed adventuring through life together.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6BXWExbxyI_ypcElCoaWowUGgayg0bWY_RIfKQk9AnJ-0DqJ-qJN8YpzxdrQHqilQM3qoCHdFAhmO6pBNRb9L3q0nah9O5wUzvMbsnZKLxWzZYn_7BUyuJ-PJn0626-3Z3xjQ2FG-SXU/s1600/zonked.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6BXWExbxyI_ypcElCoaWowUGgayg0bWY_RIfKQk9AnJ-0DqJ-qJN8YpzxdrQHqilQM3qoCHdFAhmO6pBNRb9L3q0nah9O5wUzvMbsnZKLxWzZYn_7BUyuJ-PJn0626-3Z3xjQ2FG-SXU/s640/zonked.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03303548637594636998noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-29826367857381042572015-06-27T11:07:00.002-04:002015-06-27T11:09:39.490-04:00Shine!<span style="font-size: large;">In light of the supreme court just legalizing same-sex marriage in the United States, I was encouraged by what my friend posted on facebook,</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/lovejustwon?source=feed_text&story_id=10152955179099103" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; line-height: 19.3199996948242px; text-decoration: none;"><span aria-label="hashtag" class="_58cl" style="color: #627aad;">‪#‎</span><span class="_58cm">lovejustwon‬</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">No. Love won 2,000 years ago when Jesus conquered death and sin.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">When the darkness grows even darker, light has the opportunity to shine even brighter. Shine on, Christians of the Word.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">"Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." Matthew 5:16</span></span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;"> I am tempted to be discouraged by the sinfulness of our country, and overwhelmed with sadness that our country, that was founded on Biblical principles, has strayed so far from God's law. I feel defeated, and for the first time in my life, have been able to truly say "Lord, come quickly!". In the past, I have always added a small addition to that, "After I have children, Lord, come quickly." I have been tempted to be fearful to live here where society is flaunting their sin, because of what God may do to this country (<i>remember Sodom and Gomorrah?</i>).</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I must stop myself though. I do not serve a God of fear. My God is still on the throne, and remains the same...all-powerful, all-knowing, all-wise. I do not need to be afraid.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">One way we are all equal, is that we have sinned. No matter the sin, it separates us from God.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">As my friend stated, "Love won 2,000 years ago when Jesus conquered death and sin." While I do want the Lord to come quickly, I have the opportunity now to continue to shine before others. My purpose in life is to bring HIM glory, and with the light HE has given me in this dark and sinful world, I am equipped through HIS power.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">On another note, we have had a wonderful month visiting with friends and family. We are thankful for godly friendships that laugh with us, eat with us, pray with us, and continue to point us to Scriptures to find our answers in this journey called life.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwpfvUuv6tD1UtwVgmGMA01wgdoQ75F2cKJljm7bfX-ZLAlGa_dZZBFAzncDgbZwPKLWDYoSmjTmij-i-8YboYtbsCvcVGOta2nn6yU98aj4nIREvuocV6bhHh6WProQ74NTQeSJSGRd4/s1600/IMG_1640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwpfvUuv6tD1UtwVgmGMA01wgdoQ75F2cKJljm7bfX-ZLAlGa_dZZBFAzncDgbZwPKLWDYoSmjTmij-i-8YboYtbsCvcVGOta2nn6yU98aj4nIREvuocV6bhHh6WProQ74NTQeSJSGRd4/s640/IMG_1640.JPG" width="426" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsnGUtpMYBMzOAVp2TyQ27Wp8S4fAo3H5VjEbYRjZepJSfjBkkn6qQZtyEr_pcjwZYRv4s1VIsmvB_v9sqH291xOxuTPfvUHpO_Pn8dUoyCmlZC6tjVJPnFPTdiDeuJwYihCPMn4fqs8k/s1600/IMG_1712.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsnGUtpMYBMzOAVp2TyQ27Wp8S4fAo3H5VjEbYRjZepJSfjBkkn6qQZtyEr_pcjwZYRv4s1VIsmvB_v9sqH291xOxuTPfvUHpO_Pn8dUoyCmlZC6tjVJPnFPTdiDeuJwYihCPMn4fqs8k/s640/IMG_1712.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
It has been a good month, and we look forward to another month to shine Jesus' light, in this dark, and sinful, world!Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03303548637594636998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-80097368165724544872015-05-25T06:00:00.000-04:002015-05-25T06:00:06.708-04:00My Lifelong Dream {Part 2}: Being a Mom<span style="font-size: large;">Yesterday I wrote about the fulfillment to my dream of being a wife. God has blessed me richly in the man He blessed me with to call my husband. I am very grateful.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I must confess though that some days I wallow in my grief that now is not God's timing for us to be parents, for me to be a mom. We have been married for just over two years (I understand that is not long at all), and I am sure you can imagine how many comments we/I get asking when we are going to start a family. I know they mean well, but this hurts. It hurts deeply. I remember hearing people say how hard it was for them to hear these comments, and I now understand.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We want to add to our family, but know that responsibly, now is not the right time. My head doesn't question this at all. My heart on the other hand, struggles at times to be content.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Going back to yesterday's post, another recurring thought happens later in the day as my husband drives home from work: "I can't wait for him to get home. We get to spend the whole evening together!" I am still slightly {okay, <i>very</i>} possessive of my husband. I love any, and all, time we get to spend together.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">While I so badly want to grow our little family, I don't want to wish these years away. These years where our family consists of just two adults. I constantly am reminding myself that we will never get these years back when we are young and it is just the two of us.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">In talking to many older and wiser woman, I hear a common piece of advice, "Enjoy these years, because they don't last." I am in a phase of life right now. I don't know how long this phase will be, but it is the phase the Lord has me in. I don't want to waste it wishing to be a mom. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Currently, I am a wife to a wonderful man. The days will come, Lord willing, when it won't just be the two of us. Those days are in God's timing. Until then, I bask in the blessing of marriage and the gift we have in spending time just the two of us.</span>Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03303548637594636998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-28274215912701946022015-05-24T15:23:00.004-04:002015-05-24T15:30:37.796-04:00Miller Missions: Volume 3, Issue 1<span style="font-size: large;">We are praising the Lord for His provisions. Here is our missions update letter!</span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="-x-system-font: none; display: block; font-family: Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 12px auto 6px auto;">
<a href="https://www.scribd.com/doc/266448911/V3-I1-Spring-2015-Blog-Version" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View V3 I1- Spring 2015- Blog Version on Scribd">V3 I1- Spring 2015- Blog Version</a> by <a href="https://www.scribd.com/rebekah_hewitt_2" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View Rebekah Miller's profile on Scribd">Rebekah Miller</a></div>
<iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="0.7729220222793488" data-auto-height="false" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_11604" scrolling="no" src="https://www.scribd.com/embeds/266448911/content?start_page=1&view_mode=scroll&access_key=key-oSwlAIY2JnRhCsoovGU5&show_recommendations=true" width="100%"></iframe>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i><span style="color: #45818e; font-size: large;">If you would like to be on our email update list, make sure to send us an email requesting to be on our Miller Missions Update.</span></i></div>
Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03303548637594636998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-46830988746382505992015-05-24T14:55:00.000-04:002015-05-24T15:24:21.185-04:00My Lifelong Dream {Part 1}: Being a Wife<span style="font-size: large;">I have recently noticed that I have a recurring thought. This thought comes to me at least once a week on Saturdays when I am cleaning our small apartment. The thought goes a little bit like this, "I can't believe I am a wife and get to keep home for my man." The thought continues with my amazement at my husband and all he does for me. I love married life!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I have always dreamed of being a wife and mom. I am a wife right now. I am living my dream. There are a lot of days that keeping home and fixing meals is not all that exciting. In fact, it is stressful and difficult. I am trying to balance between being a teacher, a keeper of our home, and a wife who spends times with her man. Many days I am tempted to throw my hands up in the hair and give up because it is too difficult.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Saturday mornings though help refresh me. I don't always enjoy the action of cleaning the toilet or washing dishes, but it is the big picture that I wouldn't trade for the world. I am living my dream. I am cleaning the toilet, and washing the dishes in the home I share with my husband. I am living the life if a wife. I have a home and husband to care for. For that, I am thankful.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I love being a wife. I love trying to find ways to make our home a haven for my husband to come home to. I love the feeling of a clean home. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">May I be able to use this gift that God has given me to bring Him glory. May I better understand His love and sacrifice for me, to then turn around and example it in our marriage.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Stay tuned for a sequel to this post.</span></i>Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03303548637594636998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-52144805145562524472015-05-14T20:24:00.001-04:002015-05-14T20:27:02.098-04:00Our 2nd Anniversary<span style="font-size: large;">This mister and I just celebrated our two year anniversary. We are thankful for the gift of marriage, and continue to absolutely love being married to one another. God is so incredibly good. We began a few traditions last year, and enjoyed continuing them this year. <br /><br />Note the roses. My sweetheart gave me two roses for our 2nd anniversary. His Dad does this for his mom each year, and my mister has decided to continue this legacy. He has added his own creative twist, making it even more special. As he put it, "The vase seems large now, but I plan on there being a lot more roses in there in the years to come."<br /><br />I love my man, and am thankful to be his Mrs.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUy4-iP2N9SoUX9jXxCE1Ll0UXeD9GRLH83Z5ofr_pmXhtaLxnZRebCp3ADcl9ALvdw0_KC5jrug4tCP3RyoWqM6fOdWb3quwwV2J7ZklKJSlvXaV40cQSxgeYi5_3izqj9BNty2tEbvc/s1600/Anniversary2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUy4-iP2N9SoUX9jXxCE1Ll0UXeD9GRLH83Z5ofr_pmXhtaLxnZRebCp3ADcl9ALvdw0_KC5jrug4tCP3RyoWqM6fOdWb3quwwV2J7ZklKJSlvXaV40cQSxgeYi5_3izqj9BNty2tEbvc/s640/Anniversary2015.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /><i><span style="font-size: large;">Coming Soon: a Miller Missions update!</span></i>Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03303548637594636998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-27244195955294812992015-04-29T14:49:00.001-04:002015-04-29T14:49:10.625-04:00Gloominess turned into Thankfulness<i>Heads up- if you don't want to read about my mister, then you may want to stop reading this post and check back again when there is a new post.</i><br /><br />I am supposed to be grading right now, but my mind is running a mile a minute. It was a rough day at work, and has been a discouraging day on many levels, for many different reasons.<br /><br />I am trying to pull my mind from replaying <i>a million times over</i> the discouraging thoughts, and force myself into focusing on what I am thankful for. <br />
<br />
I am thankful for my mister. <br />
<br />
Cliche as it may sound, God has blessed me way beyond what I deserve. I can truly say that my mister is a huge contribution to who I am, and to any accomplishments I may have. They say "Behind every good man is a great woman." I would like to switch that though, at least in our situation, "Behind this woman is a great man."<br /><br />This year I have struggled in knowing how to "turn work off". I bring it home- the grading, the hurts, the lesson plans, the words I said and heard, <i>everything</i>. This has proven to be very unhealthy. My mister has reminded me that worry is a sin, and has helped refocus my mind. In this, I have grown to love him all the more, and realize what a gift God gave me when He gave me my mister.<br /><br />I can't put this into words, because there aren't enough.<br />
<br />
I am thankful for his gentleness. <br />
<br />
I am thankful that he is willing to have the tough conversations with me and call me out on sin (ahem, worrying). <br />
<br />
I am thankful that he not only listens, but offers deep advice. <br />
<br />
I am thankful that he hurries home to me after work.<br /><br />I am thankful that he loves my family.<br />
<br />
I am thankful that he helps me with my job. He helps me grade papers way more than I care to admit.<br />
<br />
I am thankful for how he financially provides.<br /><br />I am thankful for how he treats others that he loves.<br /><br />I am thankful that he is unwavering- mentally, emotionally, spiritually!<br />
<br />
I am thankful that he is my best friend.<br /><br />I am thankful for how much fun we have together.<br />
<br />
I am thankful for every moment we get together, and that it is <i>never</i> enough.<br />
<br />
I am thankful that we are still on our honeymoon.<br />
<br />
I am thankful that he tells me when what I cooked for him didn't turn out the best.<br />
<br />
I am thankful for his compliments.<br />
<br />
I could go on for days, weeks, months! Simply put, I am thankful for my husband and his unconditional love.Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03303548637594636998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-63606861966577464862015-04-12T14:48:00.001-04:002015-06-27T11:08:47.250-04:00Proverbs 16:9<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I sit down to plan out my week, as I always do, and I reflect on the verse "<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;">The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps" Proverbs 16:9 (ESV).<br /><br />Just like every other week, I sat down to plan my week-- meals, outfits, engagements, lesson plans, church activities. The list could go on. I am a type A person, and am a big planner. My pitfall though is in handling a change to those plans. Clearly I have not yet mastered handling it gracefully with trust in what the Lord has in store instead.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This week, sickness hit our home, and it hit harder than normal. All meal plans went out the window. We had to cancel some dinner plans we had with some friends (might I add that we had worked hard to actually find a time that worked into our two families' busy schedules). I had to skip Bible Study and church. I had to stay home from work and get a substitute.<br /><br />All of my plans had gone out the window. I was reminded though this past week that while planning isn't bad, I need to be willing and flexible for however the Lord may change my plans. His way is perfect.<br /><br />One of His perfect plans for me this week that I saw first hand was in the choice of my husband. He was such a great help this week, and a great blessing. This man would go to school to get things ready for the sub. He ran to the grocery store more times than I care to count for all the foods you need when sick, but we did not have. He rented a movie very much with my interests in mind. He sat with me on the couch for hours on end. He did dishes. He fixed food. My mister is amazing, and I am beyond thankful to the Lord for giving him to me.<br /><br />Now here's to a planning this week, with the understanding that it is God who establishes my steps.</span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17301925349651391856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-76381172730147062712015-03-28T15:39:00.000-04:002015-03-28T15:49:54.563-04:00Spring is here...and busy!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNwS-1lOKrx8Gt8PhhJFF6HsQjejntXMMQbXtAyMPI4T-hrCdzUqEN_0C281yUGpio5v11xv0HQWvCf3FJoFikd4MiQX849N2cu84JIvD3vNayAG3BJgiPbqmAB0QOwrTdexJnG3dPhCFG/s1600/IMG_0739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNwS-1lOKrx8Gt8PhhJFF6HsQjejntXMMQbXtAyMPI4T-hrCdzUqEN_0C281yUGpio5v11xv0HQWvCf3FJoFikd4MiQX849N2cu84JIvD3vNayAG3BJgiPbqmAB0QOwrTdexJnG3dPhCFG/s1600/IMG_0739.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Spring is here, and with spring comes a busy schedule. March has been a very rewarding month in our home. Call me crazy, but at the beginning of the month I had many changes I wanted to make. I wanted my time to be productive.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i>
<i>Why I didn't do this during a winter month when the regular schedule is a little less crazy, I have no idea. Instead I waited for spring.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i>
A few days before the end of February, I wrote down a project checklist in my planner. I planned out my big picture, and then when I had free time, I would look at it, and decide which project I wanted to tackle. Several of these items had been on my list forEVER! I am happy to tell you I completed all of the items on my list.<br /><br />The first project I accomplished was making a wall hanging for our dining room, involving a curtain rod, some shoe box lids, and scrapbook paper.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcSzBKx2XSwjxoPbSFu6gtj7YLlulIpWvjZHK_TtbpWz5RYRNUWr6bSI0sMFtmAV6lArKCsZywzMzhK3_BipMgOtPt6Buui2kJZ1fcE8N3q0o1u3pndoshtrJgrs-KPcKHCPxcWPu1mr1V/s1600/IMG_0729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcSzBKx2XSwjxoPbSFu6gtj7YLlulIpWvjZHK_TtbpWz5RYRNUWr6bSI0sMFtmAV6lArKCsZywzMzhK3_BipMgOtPt6Buui2kJZ1fcE8N3q0o1u3pndoshtrJgrs-KPcKHCPxcWPu1mr1V/s1600/IMG_0729.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The next Saturday I created this wall decor for behind our bed in the master bedroom, using colored vinyl and my Cricut cutting machine. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This saying is dear to our hearts because the congregational worship song at our wedding was "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I8t-sQ8savg" target="_blank">Be Thou My Vision</a>", and will always be extra special to us.</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVLGwRNFfOKa3OZozIHDoZcZbdzje6Oy2HNGOC-A6a34KVeX0FIK40QWRrqHubAh1a8BPB5fNlfaxRsrVj_B8bahZB5U776oJqHPZqk1UYandRZzz_K_gxbYkxvK_wqtksMuM3thDG31ZM/s1600/IMG_0723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVLGwRNFfOKa3OZozIHDoZcZbdzje6Oy2HNGOC-A6a34KVeX0FIK40QWRrqHubAh1a8BPB5fNlfaxRsrVj_B8bahZB5U776oJqHPZqk1UYandRZzz_K_gxbYkxvK_wqtksMuM3thDG31ZM/s1600/IMG_0723.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For both of these projects, I had all of the supplies (I have had them for months in fact). It took being intentional though to get them done. My desire</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> is to make my home a haven.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For the third Saturday of the month, I worked on reorganizing our paper filing system. Let me tell you, I have been dreading this one. I love to organize, but even to me this was a daunting task. We still have several papers from before marriage, and several I have no clue what they are. My mister helped explain a lot to me, and with his brains, and my organization, we reworked our filing system. My favorite part- it is color coded. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I primarily used the system over at <i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I8t-sQ8savg" target="_blank">Clean Mama</a>, </i>but we also went digital with several of our tedious papers (pay stubs, non paper-less bills, etc.).<br /><br />I have had the extra time to do this crafting because my mister has been working extra- a lot extra! While I struggle sometimes with missing him, we rejoice at this being an answer to prayer. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For those of you who do not know, we are planning on going overseas to do missions work just as soon as we can. Most missions agencies frown upon debt. We do have some school debt, and praise the Lord for how He kept us from having to take out any more than we did. If you read our <a href="http://ourlittlefamily-miller.blogspot.com/2014_12_01_archive.html" target="_blank">Christmas letter</a>, it is our prayer to be completely debt free by the end of 2016.<br /><br />By our own strength, and regular scheduled hours, this goal is impossible for us. We know that God is able though, and recognize that God provides in many ways. One of those ways recently has been in giving the mister so many extra hours of work. We praise the Lord also for some financial gifts we have received from a dear friend.<br /><br />This past week we were able to pay off one of our loans. I am overwhelmed by His goodness, and this was only possible because of His provisions. All praise and glory goes to Him.<br /><br />Because we work opposite schedules, and my mister has been working extra shifts on top of that, our time together has been limited. I would be lying if I said I have had the right attitude through all of this. I miss my husband. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">When we do get time together, we treasure it all the more.<br /><br />The other night we had the entire afternoon/evening together and it. was. wonderful! The weather was gorgeous, and so we packed a picnic and went to a local park we had not yet been to. We had a blast sitting in the woods, relaxing in a hammock, walking around, and simply being together!</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU-pQfKjwfgDuhHoVLc437iXdMQgCh8FSv1vsFpkZXakPVrYHQOAPhl6-8fcTfiZr4PyqIHYPdpaWAFHHHs4IRKhE3e7ciuhBpzJNaOUmN52qTZ14BEcH7DQGBvCs-V5P2vOr2__n83_dG/s1600/Squirrel+Lake+College+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU-pQfKjwfgDuhHoVLc437iXdMQgCh8FSv1vsFpkZXakPVrYHQOAPhl6-8fcTfiZr4PyqIHYPdpaWAFHHHs4IRKhE3e7ciuhBpzJNaOUmN52qTZ14BEcH7DQGBvCs-V5P2vOr2__n83_dG/s1600/Squirrel+Lake+College+2.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Notice the goose's tongue out in the picture where he is flying.</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAzkSI7XGYZIYWSxu9rTZDDnysMYYx2FsyXJ0ME96VEmZXGWP146Z-H3RV77Chdfp0mKzVL0kMoOVZZUTPaKMYJPBZIoTr4ULcgTFA1jridbA1M6HJo4dga9k2SR8ZXZpTwUTY5nWx6LR3/s1600/Squirrel+Lake+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAzkSI7XGYZIYWSxu9rTZDDnysMYYx2FsyXJ0ME96VEmZXGWP146Z-H3RV77Chdfp0mKzVL0kMoOVZZUTPaKMYJPBZIoTr4ULcgTFA1jridbA1M6HJo4dga9k2SR8ZXZpTwUTY5nWx6LR3/s1600/Squirrel+Lake+Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_IwS7VWfMtx1sTkJfq4sRHewgf6QB3LuP1ypeaiA92e5DjIwGI-eQ2yZHDjfrMwt8_8xyS-B0vXo8yQqwHt4OTerNqzEuK6vh6NUVhT2qRMlLEdlskXtca_UkQQTHAAk3FraWLQ2fAj2z/s1600/Just+Us+Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_IwS7VWfMtx1sTkJfq4sRHewgf6QB3LuP1ypeaiA92e5DjIwGI-eQ2yZHDjfrMwt8_8xyS-B0vXo8yQqwHt4OTerNqzEuK6vh6NUVhT2qRMlLEdlskXtca_UkQQTHAAk3FraWLQ2fAj2z/s1600/Just+Us+Edit.jpg" height="430" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">All this to say, while March has been extra busy, it has reaped some wonderful rewards--projects done in our home, a loan paid off, memories made together!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I trust you all have had a great March, and are looking forward to a new month. We are looking forward to April because we have a beach trip planned this upcoming week!</span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17301925349651391856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-84710933063492975012015-02-14T19:11:00.001-05:002015-02-14T19:44:14.066-05:00Happy Valentine's Day!<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">"<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;">Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." ~John 15:13</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;">If you are on facebook, you know this verse has been on my mind a lot lately. Just think of it. Jesus did not deserve to die. In fact, He is the only one that doesn't deserve to die. Yet, His Father loved us so much that He sent His <i>only</i> {let that sink in} Son to die {a miserable} death. For me. For you.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;">His death being the greatest act of love, He exemplified love in so many others ways as well. I am convicted when I see how short I fall of the kind of love I should have- towards my husband, my family, my students.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">While I am a firm believer that love should be shown 365 days a year, I do enjoy the extra excuse to be over-the-top intentional about doing special things to make others know how very much you love them. Same as</span></span><a href="http://ourlittlefamily-miller.blogspot.com/2014/02/snow-in-february.html" style="color: #001320; line-height: 20px;" target="_blank"> last year</a><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">, I did the "14 Days of Valentines" for the mister. I love doing it, yet am not very good at keeping up with it. Some days, my mister had to wait for the note to be placed. Oops.</span></span></span><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="font-size: large; line-height: 20px;">Due to my mister having to work today, we decided to celebrate early.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">It. Was. Wonderful.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">Simply put, he has been working a lot lately, and my job has been increasingly stressful. Our time together is largely spent either grading papers or sleeping. So an afternoon and evening just us was welcomed with open arms.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">I worked Thursday morning, and then came home to a bouquet of roses {that smell amazing}. We ate a quick lunch and then enjoyed each other's company for a restful afternoon. We then got all spiffed up for our Valentine's date. The best part- we silenced {including vibrate} our phones. </span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7rCUeTEZ2AKJ9eBA6Xnu8JSvuVGWQCi9C9ImNjLu09ZUq-DEBsOOTU41-0vIHgY1uxhsvJTCxZB2yl7xrOeBePeBAw6Y3seM9oFA2G6QX3yto955-ztvff3TDyjLMCaUcS68eUZG_cwp/s1600/Us+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7rCUeTEZ2AKJ9eBA6Xnu8JSvuVGWQCi9C9ImNjLu09ZUq-DEBsOOTU41-0vIHgY1uxhsvJTCxZB2yl7xrOeBePeBAw6Y3seM9oFA2G6QX3yto955-ztvff3TDyjLMCaUcS68eUZG_cwp/s1600/Us+Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">We enjoyed a leisurely dinner for two, and walked around one of our local malls. It was just fun to be together. We would do that a lot before we were married and life has simply become too busy. We don't make the time as we should.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">The evening was spectacular.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></span>
</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large; line-height: 20px;">Friday was our day to celebrate Valentine's Day at school. The teacher in me couldn't help making these cute pencils for my students. My 2nd graders learned about homophones earlier this school year and L-O-V-E them. They are finding them everywhere and asking me about it. It was fun to see them catch on.</span></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhui_6zpek9HtKOLJrwzptyyfpSlNVTC3d0D2TYcTXoCPofmEAgJLTEA8Q4g5VNyvjLwVpa5KAYPVHMVL3D1UajVh4gIYxGnTI2uxLps909YYH2UaddlOD4nOQju7R2IOGUoIVvwRVj19n8/s1600/Pencils+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhui_6zpek9HtKOLJrwzptyyfpSlNVTC3d0D2TYcTXoCPofmEAgJLTEA8Q4g5VNyvjLwVpa5KAYPVHMVL3D1UajVh4gIYxGnTI2uxLps909YYH2UaddlOD4nOQju7R2IOGUoIVvwRVj19n8/s1600/Pencils+collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">In addition to the roses from my thoughtful mister, one of my students also gave me flowers. If you walked into our apartment and judged by the aromas that permeated our small home, you would almost think you were at a florist. I love it!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiXAzcfHz_Id9we74bF-h6LHmtbcIw_5sXBDrL4mLI5A_8-LPnEJyXFzSU2Y1_eoiJ2EKwe3_m4YrKfAoXCR7jmrfhjurVilDTbyjiG6xm8Bx3vv1DI9b2o0pNAdzUuT5g9-uTDWcuqRfZ/s1600/Flowers+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiXAzcfHz_Id9we74bF-h6LHmtbcIw_5sXBDrL4mLI5A_8-LPnEJyXFzSU2Y1_eoiJ2EKwe3_m4YrKfAoXCR7jmrfhjurVilDTbyjiG6xm8Bx3vv1DI9b2o0pNAdzUuT5g9-uTDWcuqRfZ/s1600/Flowers+Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="font-size: large; line-height: 20px;">All this to say, it has been a wonderful celebration these past few days. I am thankful for the added excuse to be intentional about love. I trust you have been able to enjoy celebrating those you love dearest, while marveling at the love given to us by our Savior.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #001320;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">From our family to yours, </span></span></span>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVYQlqax1xuTfHsz8FkTc7zQcsRRoGxP9AM7wXiW0UKXVbhSfj0qy6WJl-yRDhtcndEuaLqC2C4ESTu8-zJb_d3yaukV8BLDGK2Z9nEZklBfra7ZEJI81sKqof1jiEg7BEUs1E4qIQCHI/s1600/IMG_0471+revised.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVYQlqax1xuTfHsz8FkTc7zQcsRRoGxP9AM7wXiW0UKXVbhSfj0qy6WJl-yRDhtcndEuaLqC2C4ESTu8-zJb_d3yaukV8BLDGK2Z9nEZklBfra7ZEJI81sKqof1jiEg7BEUs1E4qIQCHI/s1600/IMG_0471+revised.jpg" height="428" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #001320; font-family: Trebuchet, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17301925349651391856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-80753411344357994482015-01-23T22:30:00.001-05:002015-01-23T22:30:21.299-05:00Happy New YearOne of my new year's resolutions is to take more pictures. The mister and I have such fun living life together, yet I have so few pictures to show for it. One of our resolution's for 2014 was to be more intentional with our time. We were. We did a lot in the year and had a blast doing it. Unfortunately, I have very little to show for it.<br /><br />Our Christmas is no exception.<br />
<br />
I had two weeks off from work, and so we did a lot of traveling. We were able to visit with both sides of our family, as well as spend some time together--just the two of us.<br />
<br />
It. Was. Wonderful.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx5ASmgiG6gt7Gy1GSGX-w4-2DrtBb4JQ6yliZRSIreW-PjhThriWCD5UlHBQM1REJEzBFdNLTgya0ejgW2GTxkEFcHAd2GV1OFyIpohO5E2OVGtnzj4zLLN-R8KJH-pVclnG37ZzMVoTO/s1600/100_2134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx5ASmgiG6gt7Gy1GSGX-w4-2DrtBb4JQ6yliZRSIreW-PjhThriWCD5UlHBQM1REJEzBFdNLTgya0ejgW2GTxkEFcHAd2GV1OFyIpohO5E2OVGtnzj4zLLN-R8KJH-pVclnG37ZzMVoTO/s1600/100_2134.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>We celebrated our Christmas together before our travels.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ozT8d4bT-eA1CDyZIaw4XMqZVn9SOKO29SFqqeRaPd9gn4nnVLMsv2o4BvSIWKu2ZF6swgAedNDTq_CxFLGeb_Q3DvrmUies6RbZVdIVNKFJNbmboIZPPDrNEsHMgtmhgqwMaFl0lBf4/s1600/100_2139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ozT8d4bT-eA1CDyZIaw4XMqZVn9SOKO29SFqqeRaPd9gn4nnVLMsv2o4BvSIWKu2ZF6swgAedNDTq_CxFLGeb_Q3DvrmUies6RbZVdIVNKFJNbmboIZPPDrNEsHMgtmhgqwMaFl0lBf4/s1600/100_2139.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Our travels began with driving to Vermont. We were reminded several times to be thankful for our safety. We drove many miles, and the Lord kept us, and our vehicle, safe.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP2Vgw66gETa3IM2tGSD52tbcQUETguZfBXWW8-HsOIutAeu90vrHOwvXUEUuhQEBypNEx7bP8PAGoBoNXOCF3lL7pgO_Lo0-_9njPBQRsfe54Cq8SNCfEq_wsgQHOgixAuBuWls-haPtr/s1600/10931440_10205350173730976_1848100441756212242_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP2Vgw66gETa3IM2tGSD52tbcQUETguZfBXWW8-HsOIutAeu90vrHOwvXUEUuhQEBypNEx7bP8PAGoBoNXOCF3lL7pgO_Lo0-_9njPBQRsfe54Cq8SNCfEq_wsgQHOgixAuBuWls-haPtr/s1600/10931440_10205350173730976_1848100441756212242_n.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5g-_sL0-FhIkBNkJm5xdHtY5e_5t63XWfuUxPfxYMIgKz_MSrceHsaaNMf9L7pKMRe8Y8VMT4YGyIt-xxIRnL6Rnqqnze2m3QRPT7NrkorlECd-8oFLdYTTGMuDkvSOvP_JW_Sfxm2UW/s1600/10896925_10205350177051059_2220622895800646344_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5g-_sL0-FhIkBNkJm5xdHtY5e_5t63XWfuUxPfxYMIgKz_MSrceHsaaNMf9L7pKMRe8Y8VMT4YGyIt-xxIRnL6Rnqqnze2m3QRPT7NrkorlECd-8oFLdYTTGMuDkvSOvP_JW_Sfxm2UW/s1600/10896925_10205350177051059_2220622895800646344_n.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>We then drove from Vermont to North Carolina, where the mister's parents live. Somehow my in-laws escaped any pictures. It was a restful few days in their new home.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNcMOM-FkKjU8Tly4bfUTA2Np1F_jvCGqYTevYa8-i6pfqAXKMq6bng2Cqb44EjQee-xoLpwEEPGv0Do4RCRDWgO_G2tM7wg2x8bqySUioNmIGk_JjnAmh0spjiFX-qkjoSEdZWH5qej3u/s1600/CIMG6300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNcMOM-FkKjU8Tly4bfUTA2Np1F_jvCGqYTevYa8-i6pfqAXKMq6bng2Cqb44EjQee-xoLpwEEPGv0Do4RCRDWgO_G2tM7wg2x8bqySUioNmIGk_JjnAmh0spjiFX-qkjoSEdZWH5qej3u/s1600/CIMG6300.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Like the slippers?</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>We came home for a night and then drove to Tennessee for a mini vacation. We had a sweet date and enjoyed the scenic drive.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPN01-e3WpHY5CLezH-PXYmXXRpXopIyMVvSsFRzZljh0gjvE1u9PxNtSME4VV1lQ4bPN0YOSZwz9cT0OuAIddjr-uS3OxOgzWqOL-WpssrtKLzukXsGWSsd-XTnYmHnd8MCtMl2Aj76zs/s1600/100_2157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPN01-e3WpHY5CLezH-PXYmXXRpXopIyMVvSsFRzZljh0gjvE1u9PxNtSME4VV1lQ4bPN0YOSZwz9cT0OuAIddjr-uS3OxOgzWqOL-WpssrtKLzukXsGWSsd-XTnYmHnd8MCtMl2Aj76zs/s1600/100_2157.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNGitQz9XCXQSAYNYU79RbeMawYhNKCLEJzeVRPeXY8mW31eg9YwieIlctunngdtQoe7WepnqnjLfdT3MruxLSXy6gNoHq019Wn4dKmt2VceY03OQ6QXGufgrn6NMqWF5EkhYp0TCR0Nqu/s1600/100_2159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNGitQz9XCXQSAYNYU79RbeMawYhNKCLEJzeVRPeXY8mW31eg9YwieIlctunngdtQoe7WepnqnjLfdT3MruxLSXy6gNoHq019Wn4dKmt2VceY03OQ6QXGufgrn6NMqWF5EkhYp0TCR0Nqu/s1600/100_2159.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOoKCpvesSth_Yhyphenhyphen7ZWtpuTI_9CnhAo-CX7CRZNfxXgpwM72R733kbA4PZZwPM-Qd1KB6SRbpzni_kbxjezJer7jIv5mxJLI0ethithyphenhyphen5uR_-9ZbivneR141XbALw-5ZjTUtPfGlLdtBb5/s1600/100_2162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOoKCpvesSth_Yhyphenhyphen7ZWtpuTI_9CnhAo-CX7CRZNfxXgpwM72R733kbA4PZZwPM-Qd1KB6SRbpzni_kbxjezJer7jIv5mxJLI0ethithyphenhyphen5uR_-9ZbivneR141XbALw-5ZjTUtPfGlLdtBb5/s1600/100_2162.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Reality struck again though on Monday morning. I added a class this semester. A dear teacher friend retired from teaching, and I took over one of his classes. I am now teaching 6th grade Math. My work load has grown exponentially, but I am learning so much from this experience.<br /><br />I have also recently committed to teaching in the preschool again this summer. I feel I have it made when I get to spend the summers with the little kiddos, and the school year with the bigger kiddos. Again, I am so thankful the Lord has made it so clear to me what I enjoy doing.<br /><br />In other news, we have been praying that God would provide ways for us to pay off our school loans quicker. God provides. The mister has been working a lot. Sometimes it feels like non-stop. He has had several days with overtime recently. While I miss having him at home SO much, I am thankful for the answers to prayer we are watching first hand.<br /><br />2015 is upon us and I have no idea what to expect. Two things I know is that I want to continue being intentional with time, and want to take more pictures.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy 2015!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17301925349651391856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-10266450565086307172014-12-07T15:37:00.002-05:002014-12-07T15:43:00.507-05:00Christmas already?Let me share one way in which God has met the desires of our hearts in a small, yet so big at the same time, way.<br />
<br />
The mister and I have been looking at nativities this year to add to our Christmas decorations. We did not have one last year, and really wanted to help our focus be on using this season as an opportunity to worship our God in an extra way. We had looked several different places, and had not yet found one that was *perfect* for our home and family.<br />
<br />
On Tuesday, I mentioned to the mister that I wanted to research advent more, and possibly make that one of our Christmas traditions. <i>I have been trying to find ways to add decorations and traditions to our home that are spiritually focused.</i> It was a quick and passing comment, and the day carried on.<br />
<br />
We had some dear friends over for dinner on Tuesday. While we are in rather different phases of life, we enjoy sweet fellowship with them, and they are quick to share wisdom and advice. <br />
<br />
Before they left, she handed me a bag, and apologized that it "wasn't anything much, but just something small to express their appreciation" for our having them over for dinner. <i>I am amazed with how, while very unnecessary, what a sweet gesture this is. I have a goal to be more like this. </i>I opened the bag, and what was the gift, you may ask...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
...an advent candle holder, that is also a nativity.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf7wwxdlKH9r_e-x-Unw542vC-g4NSKtDyXnDnzfWJf7BDwdLVUlpGM-xz41bZdDmOfazCZuNrNOp42C5-T1P75RVORN9eEmtTnrDyKflGGH789Izug8Ryst7aTFk1SqYgt2sq1mr_OArC/s1600/100_2128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf7wwxdlKH9r_e-x-Unw542vC-g4NSKtDyXnDnzfWJf7BDwdLVUlpGM-xz41bZdDmOfazCZuNrNOp42C5-T1P75RVORN9eEmtTnrDyKflGGH789Izug8Ryst7aTFk1SqYgt2sq1mr_OArC/s1600/100_2128.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSb8iQhepLoBclw2B5yrlkydvWei7iX8FBSUbR282Scn2GoGonStWlrh3LwFFrxrgGaEEKAdwgEY4hsZO52YXFfwfWni0zwxS5g3uqG4REKHV6F7hUWszTjfy2jJad-fE0SowViWDxcqlN/s1600/100_2129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSb8iQhepLoBclw2B5yrlkydvWei7iX8FBSUbR282Scn2GoGonStWlrh3LwFFrxrgGaEEKAdwgEY4hsZO52YXFfwfWni0zwxS5g3uqG4REKHV6F7hUWszTjfy2jJad-fE0SowViWDxcqlN/s1600/100_2129.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrardIyJd6gLGuuKkN6Lcud9KKDiAJxGjngoK9uFIOeZVpLW6MRYHAPQOuWN8zHXZG6q-IYwNBzmjSt4vBvk7EcEr8y2bRO-eTNS5mU1IAf_Psh2Nk-kgOJyffa6qZXzSlrT2WYNxR4gG/s1600/100_2130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrardIyJd6gLGuuKkN6Lcud9KKDiAJxGjngoK9uFIOeZVpLW6MRYHAPQOuWN8zHXZG6q-IYwNBzmjSt4vBvk7EcEr8y2bRO-eTNS5mU1IAf_Psh2Nk-kgOJyffa6qZXzSlrT2WYNxR4gG/s1600/100_2130.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>{excuse my lack of photography skills, and the fact that I have not yet picked up candles for it, so it has our poinsettias}</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I wanted to cry when I opened this gift. The Lord cares even for the small details of our wanting to get a nativity this year. I love how this is a different nativity and not the traditional. I enjoyed explaining to our friends that this was not "nothing much", but was instead huge, and an answer to prayer.<br />
<br />
We are currently working on sending out our Christmas card. Here a recent update on how we are, and our exciting goal for 2016! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.docstoc.com/docs/173230898/December%202014-%20Christmas.pdf">December 2014- Christmas.pdf</a></span><br />
<object data="http://viewer.docstoc.com/" height="550" id="_ds_173230898" name="_ds_173230898" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="630"><param name='FlashVars'value='doc_id=173230898&mem_id=undefined&doc_type=Documents&fullscreen=1&allowdownload=1' /><param name='movie' value='http://viewer.docstoc.com/'/><param name='allowScriptAccess' value='always' /><param name='allowFullScreen' value='true' /></object><br />
<script type="text/javascript">var docstoc_docid='173230898'; var docstoc_title='December 2014- Christmas.pdf'; var docstoc_urltitle='December 2014- Christmas.pdf';</script><script src="http://i.docstoccdn.com/js/check-flash.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h2>
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">What are your Christmas traditions? Do you send out a Christmas letter?</span></b></h2>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17301925349651391856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-68425871653469268392014-09-29T23:15:00.002-04:002014-09-29T23:16:51.634-04:00Happy Fall!Happy Fall! Welcome to the most wonderful time of year. Cooler temperatures. Pumpkin everything. Long pants. Hooded Sweatshirts. Fresh Apples. Campfires. Changing Colors. Crunchy Leaves, Hot apple Cider. Popcorn. Pumpkins as Decor.<br />
<br />
I {love} Fall! <br />
<br />
I don't know how else to say it. The only thing I can think of right off that I do not like about fall is the seasonal allergies that come along for the ride. So far they have not bothered me though, for which I am <i>so</i> thankful.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Fall began last Tuesday, and I couldn't welcome the season without making pumpkin chocolate chip muffins. I love most everything pumpkin, but these muffins are the best. They define fall in their tasty goodness.<br />
<br />
The mister's schedule has changed and these hours have proven to be more difficult to adjust to. We wait patiently though for strength as our sleeping hours are short. Time and time again, I thank the Lord that we are young. It is not the healthiest of lifestyles right now, but we are able to manage. I am so thankful. I struggle to go to bed, knowing I am in the apartment alone. My imagination is creative, and I struggle with fear. While this is something I am working on, it has an encouraging reminder of the beauty of marriage.<br />
<br />
I feel safe with my mister. When with him, I sleep easy. I spend a lot of time thanking the Lord for providing me with a strong husband who provides strength and safety in our home.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq1ctN1xy5xtSr7PuS_2vZgVrrccBhveBdo-lPYfZd1fMQogMH6VBMcYtrDr0fbJaOBeedaL7DRr4f4FBQ4xCdPYE-bPYHUNuRl1XbldG64574MXUzcHe-b_bH4jWGhfZHFOdrYiBGJ3Yk/s1600/I+have+found+the+one.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq1ctN1xy5xtSr7PuS_2vZgVrrccBhveBdo-lPYfZd1fMQogMH6VBMcYtrDr0fbJaOBeedaL7DRr4f4FBQ4xCdPYE-bPYHUNuRl1XbldG64574MXUzcHe-b_bH4jWGhfZHFOdrYiBGJ3Yk/s1600/I+have+found+the+one.jpg" height="640" width="520" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>One of the perks of this schedule is that we get to go to Sunday morning worship together!</i></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This schedule is just for a time. We are relying on the strength of the Lord, and enjoying the time we do get together.<br />
<br />
Teaching is going very well for me. I am continually learning lessons. Sometimes it is a proactive lesson, and other times it is a reactive lesson. I am privileged to have gracious and patient coworkers who help teach me. I have several parents and grandparents of my students who have mentioned that they pray for me daily. I take great encouragement from this. I cannot do it alone.<br />
<br />
I was able to go the Southeast Christian School Convention last week, and was greatly encouraged. It was restful in no way, but the change of pace was a welcomed refreshment.<br />
<br />
We were able to have a quick visit at the mister's parent's house, and then his grandparents came and stayed with us. One of the many joys of being a homemaker is being able to play hostess. If you didn't already know, cooking is a love language. It is my love language. Now, in a few weeks we get to have my parents come for a visit! It may be dangerous though, with coming during the season I enjoy baking so much in.<br />
<br />
I hope you are able to enjoy the fall months as much as we do {a lot!}. If you think of us, pray for spiritual growth. Pray for physical and emotional strength with this period of time while we have this work school. Pray that our love towards each other would continue to grow.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17301925349651391856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-56380556062278423632014-08-10T15:09:00.002-04:002014-08-10T15:09:41.806-04:00Where did July go?I can hardly believe that July is done, and that we are almost halfway through August. One thing the mister and I keep saying is how incredibly fast this year has gone. It is true that the older you get, the faster time goes by, but I used to measure time in smaller increments: a break from school, semesters, summer vacation, etc. Now I simply measure it by months, and the year is over halfway gone. We are thankful that the Lord has really impressed on our hearts this year to make the most of time. The Lord knew this was going to be a fast year, and were we were to take time for granted, we would look back on 2014 with a lot of regrets.<br />
<br />
July is my favorite month as it has both my birthday, and my favorite holiday {Independence Day}. This year was no exception in it being a wonderful month. Celebrating our country was one of my favorite weeks at preschool. My mister absolutely spoiled me rotten on my birthday (and basically the week before, and week after). We went on our summer vacation. The list could go on with other smaller things that when compiled together made for a big month in our little family.<br />
<br />
My birthday was July 8th, and my husband had been planning in advance in order to make it the best one yet. He asked me what I wanted for my birthday meal. I asked him "how ambitious do you want to get?". He replied with, "well, what do you want?". I told him {Outback} Alice's Spring Chicken, and {The Pioneer Woman} Olive Bread. It was not a particularly healthy meal, but my-oh-my was it delicious. My husband knows his way around the kitchen [thanks, Mom Miller for teaching him].<br />
<br />
The morning of my birthday (he was on his weekend, but I still had to work), he banned me from going into the kitchen. He had bought me strawberries, and made homemade waffles with cool whip, strawberries, and chocolate. This was no small task as I have to be <i>at</i> work before 7:00am. It was so special.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL9tT_6uUMYbBrXpbTGr82wq1cLewHtT0F1grVyP6ND8t0qPWtTNcyb0_JwaeBjiKT-8_kj2H7NGaPXVpUOayYH9uy0zTzVeuaTwSlNyFmWY5oB9OphgPOW42OdsxjbrdW7T5YAk_JsA3u/s1600/WP_20140708_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL9tT_6uUMYbBrXpbTGr82wq1cLewHtT0F1grVyP6ND8t0qPWtTNcyb0_JwaeBjiKT-8_kj2H7NGaPXVpUOayYH9uy0zTzVeuaTwSlNyFmWY5oB9OphgPOW42OdsxjbrdW7T5YAk_JsA3u/s1600/WP_20140708_001.jpg" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
He worked hard and long to make my requested dinner. It was no disappointment.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP3SFXZKt9lxey6TgpOLtey1UMX4-AhbR86_opiQAeemCZCkFUrI0qr2fwhUpZ5ixXCHw-S9peEa8FJuD3287PikZDYztU8rjZv-8913k_B8izW3AIj4GUCSVC9o5-Z5dWIFf03tDJjGmw/s1600/WP_20140708_002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP3SFXZKt9lxey6TgpOLtey1UMX4-AhbR86_opiQAeemCZCkFUrI0qr2fwhUpZ5ixXCHw-S9peEa8FJuD3287PikZDYztU8rjZv-8913k_B8izW3AIj4GUCSVC9o5-Z5dWIFf03tDJjGmw/s1600/WP_20140708_002.jpg" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEye9UM8KnkJHNMpO6pME3TaprdFpUDEhyGCS5FtSFmxOod_EUPWBuM58kQRzJqQJ8ZJpPynazWtJy0XbiiZKb62dwGTXqPk0iEndSI6ZV15mifu7syribHQ9A3mWMfmCRVUtIzGQaRniR/s1600/WP_20140708_003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEye9UM8KnkJHNMpO6pME3TaprdFpUDEhyGCS5FtSFmxOod_EUPWBuM58kQRzJqQJ8ZJpPynazWtJy0XbiiZKb62dwGTXqPk0iEndSI6ZV15mifu7syribHQ9A3mWMfmCRVUtIzGQaRniR/s1600/WP_20140708_003.jpg" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
He also made me homemade peanut butter cheesecake. I have made one cheesecake in my life, and while it tasted good, the texture left more to be desired. My husband absolutely mastered this cheesecake--it was absolutely ah-mazing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEHtwyHSE7aMpbngSlXFHwrNDuNfd4YxxM9TffMLNWJVlMREiuPIUIcdYlTQ968dEoiO_H26j_c6tHOBxuqHB2ox5deyAZVYGfzbLdAzK41auU7Q9r9S2etxb6tIGVYy9yW6L7hBYmL95r/s1600/WP_20140708_005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEHtwyHSE7aMpbngSlXFHwrNDuNfd4YxxM9TffMLNWJVlMREiuPIUIcdYlTQ968dEoiO_H26j_c6tHOBxuqHB2ox5deyAZVYGfzbLdAzK41auU7Q9r9S2etxb6tIGVYy9yW6L7hBYmL95r/s1600/WP_20140708_005.jpg" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I cannot brag on him enough [not to mention, I am sure you are already bored out of your mind] for how special he made my birthday. I was not allowed in the kitchen all day, and he did all of the dishes. I have known this for quite some time, but he's a keeper!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We had about a week of "normal" life before the insane schedule began.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
On July 18th, we flew to Dallas, TX and drove to Austin to spend a few days with several of the mister's college friends. There were seven of us total. We did a lot of outdoor water activities, visiting, and catching up.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Qr9pzA4n9Z4asoG8fka7BuXCqpjgsRcwANfaWIoiA8I805unLPGjihXO63g5Lx2vb2N2SQgLd9c4qG2745j9jBaVjbpuV-6mm3w6zYy-ciPjNHzcO-nTdB0fMnUJXd0T9MZq70lUkJl-/s1600/WP_20140719_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Qr9pzA4n9Z4asoG8fka7BuXCqpjgsRcwANfaWIoiA8I805unLPGjihXO63g5Lx2vb2N2SQgLd9c4qG2745j9jBaVjbpuV-6mm3w6zYy-ciPjNHzcO-nTdB0fMnUJXd0T9MZq70lUkJl-/s1600/WP_20140719_001.jpg" height="640" width="358" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Austin, TX capitol</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Early Tuesday (July 22) morning, we flew north to spend a few days with my family in Vermont. It was a very relaxing and restful time, and the weather was wonderful! My parents live in the woods, with a large yard, in a small town. The slow pace of life was a welcome change. It was also good to spend time with family (my grandparents, parents, and all 3 siblings life here). We rarely get to see our niece and nephew, so that was a fun time as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Uz_lV2qT8sumxuSX5P6OWvMplZnaRZBVUcpdyHydSeoeHS7z8WNyc3jzAf2aC-mdj2D4ICIyxODMIjdhFdjj6ZdVWbEEzQdORNlU7r3cqDgR6Z-UVbl6NaG9w1QPS1Yo9yBPdZgJSo0T/s1600/WP_20140724_002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Uz_lV2qT8sumxuSX5P6OWvMplZnaRZBVUcpdyHydSeoeHS7z8WNyc3jzAf2aC-mdj2D4ICIyxODMIjdhFdjj6ZdVWbEEzQdORNlU7r3cqDgR6Z-UVbl6NaG9w1QPS1Yo9yBPdZgJSo0T/s1600/WP_20140724_002.jpg" height="356" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We got back late Friday night, and on Monday (July 28), my brother welcomed another daughter into their family.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnoLRTJZsEgI9JaQEeQbdYjsARf_DykplymG143XTzlzeANvrcEOuFSnn2eWRJNIiRJaQsiPdZGFf42FUvogobSVxrFNFwBaSvpeu-fi8Xt8QnqjkDPcLT6vOGjabRIpFOxSGTXg-vcYL5/s1600/10386248_10204089501614961_3814578702098789204_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnoLRTJZsEgI9JaQEeQbdYjsARf_DykplymG143XTzlzeANvrcEOuFSnn2eWRJNIiRJaQsiPdZGFf42FUvogobSVxrFNFwBaSvpeu-fi8Xt8QnqjkDPcLT6vOGjabRIpFOxSGTXg-vcYL5/s1600/10386248_10204089501614961_3814578702098789204_n.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHeHsh0OmdTXwobFsbgWT5chJPq1PfDaGXG9RrTgpOwjklQ-fPlABc3HMUbrwAhqVhQrML9r1dlQAGUaBsjjcC4DzcdpmPxTa0icMSV94Fus0qC5CYRmUOqJpy7TI4tgXYMwgXNghG9ypE/s1600/10489951_10204089499934919_7367441465778791675_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHeHsh0OmdTXwobFsbgWT5chJPq1PfDaGXG9RrTgpOwjklQ-fPlABc3HMUbrwAhqVhQrML9r1dlQAGUaBsjjcC4DzcdpmPxTa0icMSV94Fus0qC5CYRmUOqJpy7TI4tgXYMwgXNghG9ypE/s1600/10489951_10204089499934919_7367441465778791675_n.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We were bummed to have just missed her arrival, but are thankful that Nora Joy is healthy and doing well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Along with our sweet niece arriving, Monday started our hectic week of Bible Adventure Week (aka: VBS) at our church. Several months ago, not knowing what all would be happening this week, I agreed to be the 1st grade leader. It was a challenge balancing the different hats I was wearing, but God's strength sustained me, and I was able to see that "when I am weak, He is strong". Our theme was pirates, "Treasure God's Word". One of my friends made this awesome ship for our classroom.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg14fR685-2xpiRNSxbCjqiHTJLM6OPVLwKpWyr6Hb0YIpM-iN7dzrboVm-zS4_qpsbsPjelopmbAqfpkxuvddVpUlofTp-CR8lw1gsYApEtmcEg6vAl3DYgG6eHIEKzxI4vwjmIe-nm8UU/s1600/WP_20140728_003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg14fR685-2xpiRNSxbCjqiHTJLM6OPVLwKpWyr6Hb0YIpM-iN7dzrboVm-zS4_qpsbsPjelopmbAqfpkxuvddVpUlofTp-CR8lw1gsYApEtmcEg6vAl3DYgG6eHIEKzxI4vwjmIe-nm8UU/s1600/WP_20140728_003.jpg" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
After three years without a job, my Lord provided my father-in-law with a new job. He is now pastor at a church about two and a half hours from us. We were able to go help them move into their new home on that Wednesday and Thursday. It was a delight to be meet the people at their new church, and see where they are at now. We cannot thank the Lord enough for how He provided. It was a busy two days, but a lot was accomplished.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUmKNkGeMWnDFkUr5vad8Uh5Asc75Ulc54BPI8ajV5xG_TOjFoM6-YLCN5z8Wem7I-Bvpas7Ow6RfL0BLJuqReIABFmp9YpkVgEoa5pEiBTj5NsuCSUkcKfzIGlAS8vmlsXEgZF8_Cw25S/s1600/WP_20140730_005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUmKNkGeMWnDFkUr5vad8Uh5Asc75Ulc54BPI8ajV5xG_TOjFoM6-YLCN5z8Wem7I-Bvpas7Ow6RfL0BLJuqReIABFmp9YpkVgEoa5pEiBTj5NsuCSUkcKfzIGlAS8vmlsXEgZF8_Cw25S/s1600/WP_20140730_005.jpg" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4wCUq-vh75FPLeEhs61gtPk_EHuoDCmDGljc9QWRZl-PusZYl7n4TwIpt9VEPqoCJkSZJc36pCrrSeggOwvlry3qJvHiBPrO-vvwPzJ-TzJyIldhyphenhyphen3SNDFJc0BzKjVTR6Pfq9InAJ4MtZ/s1600/WP_20140730_007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4wCUq-vh75FPLeEhs61gtPk_EHuoDCmDGljc9QWRZl-PusZYl7n4TwIpt9VEPqoCJkSZJc36pCrrSeggOwvlry3qJvHiBPrO-vvwPzJ-TzJyIldhyphenhyphen3SNDFJc0BzKjVTR6Pfq9InAJ4MtZ/s1600/WP_20140730_007.jpg" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc0S30-xau_9hcavg9ABDCv2E1DqGoD9tZPRoQUmdhQUkaJYV5K587S30nsnWjmnh6nAxJjiOrFRn6GK1jHyGM6eiKiIhs18UmBStuHcAWSlGHbhvq3_8VF1D8MF_ZEHcP63nWCVThTfc5/s1600/WP_20140730_013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc0S30-xau_9hcavg9ABDCv2E1DqGoD9tZPRoQUmdhQUkaJYV5K587S30nsnWjmnh6nAxJjiOrFRn6GK1jHyGM6eiKiIhs18UmBStuHcAWSlGHbhvq3_8VF1D8MF_ZEHcP63nWCVThTfc5/s1600/WP_20140730_013.jpg" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmfbAlT80AgSqR8vnfx6a_ua8aIaa9nZfUskhDDZ8YyurEshSFOAuEneem3T9C1zrJqoVuhXdEoDvhWpb-YH6MIUn9rdbIsBp8aFR5wccZgh2_9h3eNYroilfymsJAoQywVs7yC1sy0dd9/s1600/WP_20140730_019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmfbAlT80AgSqR8vnfx6a_ua8aIaa9nZfUskhDDZ8YyurEshSFOAuEneem3T9C1zrJqoVuhXdEoDvhWpb-YH6MIUn9rdbIsBp8aFR5wccZgh2_9h3eNYroilfymsJAoQywVs7yC1sy0dd9/s1600/WP_20140730_019.jpg" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And now, as if life weren't crazy enough, I am preparing to start a new job tomorrow. I was offered a position at our church's school to teach 2nd and 3rd grade math and English. I chose to leave the preschool aspect of the school, and accepted this position. In-service begins tomorrow, and I am eager to begin. My heart is in teaching, and I cannot wait to teach academics. There is still a lot I don't know, and need to learn, but the Lord has not failed me yet, and I know He will continue to keep me and teach me.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I ask that you pray for me and the lives I will be in contact with this year. Thank you for your love and support. Please keep in touch with us, and let us know what is going on with your life.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Until next time, enjoy each moment, knowing that the moments, hours, days, months, and years pass by ever so quickly.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17301925349651391856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-20552609750469931992014-07-05T12:31:00.002-04:002014-07-05T12:36:27.661-04:00July Happenings!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj47Ckir3l-wOzPlSiXsdjZsyPMmjI5CSuR9rIo5_yRfHl-d7yo5qFaa6eHMYHkbdWvlZszDiAHrGZPJxfGUlIaCAp7INfAvP6IB1BhNAnOMt6953_PcaZiavA8VKKD-oTHQP2aPxsAdOA3/s1600/4th+of+July.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj47Ckir3l-wOzPlSiXsdjZsyPMmjI5CSuR9rIo5_yRfHl-d7yo5qFaa6eHMYHkbdWvlZszDiAHrGZPJxfGUlIaCAp7INfAvP6IB1BhNAnOMt6953_PcaZiavA8VKKD-oTHQP2aPxsAdOA3/s1600/4th+of+July.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I trust you all had a wonderful 4th of July! The mister had to work, so I enjoyed a day off from work, and focused on enjoying life. I was able to do just that. I was able to catch up with my father-in-law on the phone for a while, go into town to take advantage of my free Starbucks birthday drink {even if they did mis-spell my name}, slowly meander through some stores, and have a lengthy phone conversation with my mom.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #999999;">{May I just insert here how <i>very</i> much I love my Mom?! It is true that when you grow up, a wonderful change happens in the relationship between a parent and child. My mom has become one of my best friends. I am constantly calling her asking for advice on how to handle a situation from school (goodness knows that with me and my siblings as her children, she has probably been through every scenario imaginable), and she offers such wisdom. She helps work through my kitchen fiascos and simply is a sounding board on a lot of things. I am thankful to call her Mom, and one of my best friends. And now back to the post...}</span><br />
<br />
It was a relaxing morning and afternoon. I had never grilled portobello mushrooms before, so this was a first, and definitely not the last. To celebrate Independence day, we went to town to watch the parade. Much to our surprise, the parade consisted of a firetruck, followed by a few hundred people walking/riding/biking with decorated bikes, wagons, strollers, etc. We were able to catch a few fireworks that people were setting off in the complex's parking lot {which I found a little scary, to say the least}.<br />
<br />
<br />
On a school note, the summer is over halfway done and I can hardly believe it! Where has the time gone? Here a few [not so good...aka: cell phone] pictures from over the weeks!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvSyVsWGkQ0l5mfOGUnk8kWcw6Do5punedXWGVQbTPjYLutuRP8vwIHi_lb6ucAJSdS2pcROuVD5g1iuFQDu9AO081osuXSSb9PD302n0oBxG420rzpkq4IsSG4HoIG_c-A9KM9aDq_KsT/s1600/Summer+Bulletin+Boards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvSyVsWGkQ0l5mfOGUnk8kWcw6Do5punedXWGVQbTPjYLutuRP8vwIHi_lb6ucAJSdS2pcROuVD5g1iuFQDu9AO081osuXSSb9PD302n0oBxG420rzpkq4IsSG4HoIG_c-A9KM9aDq_KsT/s1600/Summer+Bulletin+Boards.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
For "Sea of Fun" week, we decorated the room to help us feel like we were at the beach!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZKhZztVZh-FRxcaFzmQuVowJZ1uEVp_n0V9pvlmbhnxfUAPIL9nmrtfnw04AqWM8QAScoKYlZvbv7E4uOh7uRCOpM6l_a1azYVeAdfIbKzn-iGYYihuRsvrC_zEWgeaIUBDrPUIWNsidk/s1600/WP_20140602_002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZKhZztVZh-FRxcaFzmQuVowJZ1uEVp_n0V9pvlmbhnxfUAPIL9nmrtfnw04AqWM8QAScoKYlZvbv7E4uOh7uRCOpM6l_a1azYVeAdfIbKzn-iGYYihuRsvrC_zEWgeaIUBDrPUIWNsidk/s1600/WP_20140602_002.jpg" height="356" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On Friday, we had a beach party where we decorated cupcakes and then ate them outside on our beach towels before water day! So messy, yet so fun.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1qUjgU2PcVURtI0I81qIp_LHppWb_vaPp3qkHj9LMjr5t19R-6SNzD6dK5l5ctgERFg8Ig_8b4IzBbUvdgQbjYgpMdMcK3Z1kIhydnZWndZmTZlbligS2tLtr1ou4szJQ-6UEWOnVZYHF/s1600/WP_20140606_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1qUjgU2PcVURtI0I81qIp_LHppWb_vaPp3qkHj9LMjr5t19R-6SNzD6dK5l5ctgERFg8Ig_8b4IzBbUvdgQbjYgpMdMcK3Z1kIhydnZWndZmTZlbligS2tLtr1ou4szJQ-6UEWOnVZYHF/s1600/WP_20140606_001.jpg" height="356" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For "Start your Engines" week, we drew a "race track" out in the parking lot and then the munchkins had fun driving their cars around the track. One child even tried to teach his mommy how to drive that afternoon after telling her "Mrs. Miller let me drive on the road this morning"!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ8N1e9ZUPQO0TDunxo-LOpmLjW417Akqfq4EvX3E7ZvqAbFhEAC9jsGg8Mn2tER8u90DfHPD_n0ZrzHWRTNLVH7oudpau0atSUJpGYf28lmTazdIfNzbjt_cd6ta5MBiUKre86j1Dk355/s1600/faces+covered.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ8N1e9ZUPQO0TDunxo-LOpmLjW417Akqfq4EvX3E7ZvqAbFhEAC9jsGg8Mn2tER8u90DfHPD_n0ZrzHWRTNLVH7oudpau0atSUJpGYf28lmTazdIfNzbjt_cd6ta5MBiUKre86j1Dk355/s1600/faces+covered.jpg" height="356" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
For "Celebrate Summer" week, we packed it with fun summer activities. One of those fun things was making <a href="http://innerchildfun.com/2014/01/amazing-recipes-play.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+FrugalFamilyFunBlog+(Frugal+Family+Fun+Blog)" target="_blank">sidewalk chalk paint</a>. Again, messy, but oh so fun!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfm5Mvz_fFQbt66J79cAouF12OBQrj8WfsT4e_6CSZyUyCg9Z9KTMhajbRYCcLEmBU0ow9ONqEEXTHxymaTaNXwWfSfVnqQhlaHn9juPko0qU_t-MwNIgRbxz6FA5L4LuuFxak8yUhLb7h/s1600/WP_20140617_002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfm5Mvz_fFQbt66J79cAouF12OBQrj8WfsT4e_6CSZyUyCg9Z9KTMhajbRYCcLEmBU0ow9ONqEEXTHxymaTaNXwWfSfVnqQhlaHn9juPko0qU_t-MwNIgRbxz6FA5L4LuuFxak8yUhLb7h/s1600/WP_20140617_002.jpg" height="356" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This past week we celebrated our country, leading up to Independence Day. I was so proud of the munchkins for how respectful they were when standing still, with their hand over their heart, for the national anthem, and pledge of allegiance. It was a needed reminder that even children as young as three-years-old, can do way more then we give them credit for.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We made <a href="http://madincrafts.com/preschool-snack-for-presidents-day/" target="_blank">patriotic parfaits</a>, and they really enjoyed them. They kept exclaiming "this is just like ice cream".</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXeRSp0Hi1uLJ7bqVhMo6ni3iGBjK827sWYAIEKqVW8P9gDttpzqeDN5rrT9DG3LbPCedy4SyGesQk_sRiy3wDEsGmjdvVfqCWpgsudnMTJFYHu3GuJnrKgEn_aZ1O_iXtZ6a7VastoNyv/s1600/WP_20140701_007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXeRSp0Hi1uLJ7bqVhMo6ni3iGBjK827sWYAIEKqVW8P9gDttpzqeDN5rrT9DG3LbPCedy4SyGesQk_sRiy3wDEsGmjdvVfqCWpgsudnMTJFYHu3GuJnrKgEn_aZ1O_iXtZ6a7VastoNyv/s1600/WP_20140701_007.jpg" height="356" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
We made soldiers on Monday, where I let them draw the soldier's face. I am so pleased with how they turned out!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRFG3bKoT2ZhBh1fGzyd2xRCjDNhK6zhHTAPgCDYPp4ucV-AcLJU9Arkb5EDD2Ns53J3Bgv5inIBWmbLao4eFlC1rzTt7Yrn2nU4h8FoHkUcQTCNXxWIYfTZY5IvrnyylJ6AWC74qFchPT/s1600/Preschool+Soldiers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRFG3bKoT2ZhBh1fGzyd2xRCjDNhK6zhHTAPgCDYPp4ucV-AcLJU9Arkb5EDD2Ns53J3Bgv5inIBWmbLao4eFlC1rzTt7Yrn2nU4h8FoHkUcQTCNXxWIYfTZY5IvrnyylJ6AWC74qFchPT/s1600/Preschool+Soldiers.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Monday will be the start of Week#7: Our Family and Home. Please pray for strength that I would finish strong, and continue to learn as we go. Pray also as we seek God in what he has for us in the fall!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>What did you do for Independence Day?</b></span> </span>Comment below.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17301925349651391856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-80952934180769070582014-07-04T14:49:00.000-04:002014-07-04T18:58:57.692-04:00A long list...<span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 27.899999618530273px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Happy 4th of July! Today may very well be my favorite holiday of the whole year. Picnics. Fireworks. Family. I love it all! This past week at school, I would put on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=goNEY727_sI" target="_blank">this movie</a> during snack time to let the children hear patriotic music, with the fun visual of fireworks. I don't know who enjoyed it more though, the munchkins, or their teacher!</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 27.899999618530273px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 27.899999618530273px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">My friend (as well as the youth pastor's wife at our church), Christa answered these on her blog over at <a href="http://brownsugartoast.com/taking-stock/" target="_blank">Brown Sugar Toast</a>. I enjoyed reading her responses so much, I thought I would give it a try. It was an added bonus that I love lists!</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cooking: Portobello Mushroom "Burgers" </span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Drinking: a {free} Starbuck's Caramel Ribbon Crunch with an extra shot of espresso. So yummy! </span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Reading: </span><i style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://loveandrespect.com/store/love-and-respect-book.html" target="_blank">Love & Respect</a>...</i><span style="font-family: inherit;">I am such a slow reader.</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Looking: for the perfect gift for my mister's birthday, which is next month!</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Playing: "restaurant" during snack time with my preschoolers</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wasting: paper with the copy machine acting up</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sewing: nothing. </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">This is the area of domesticity that I greatly lack in.</i></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wishing: my mister were home celebrating the 4th with me</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Enjoying: quiet {not because my mister is not home, but because I am not with my munchkins at school}</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Waiting: for the three upcoming trips we have planned</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Liking: God's conviction...it is a sign of life and growth.</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wondering: where the Lord will have us a year from now</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Loving: married life!</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hoping: to go camping sometime this summer with my mister</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Marveling: at the fact that the year is already half over</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Needing: to be more like Christ</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Smelling: the freshly ground coffee beans my sister-in-law brought me this morning</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wearing: blue shorts. red top. white pearl necklace.</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Following: East Coast Creative. Their </span><a href="http://eastcoastcreativeblog.com/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">blog</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> and </span><a href="http://livewellnetwork.com/Knock-It-Off!/episodes/111?show=knockitoff&ct=lwhd_Episode" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">TV show</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">.</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Noticing: how un-decorated and un-creative my home is</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Knowing: that I am forgiven</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thinking: about how I need to take more pictures</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Feeling: refreshed</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Bookmarking: this </span><a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2011/05/reader-space-rad-recipe-binder-and.html" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">recipe organization</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> idea. "organize recipes" is on my "summer to do"</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Opening: a new box of graham crackers</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Giggling: can't say as though I am giggling.</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Feeling: accomplished for thinking of something for each one of these.</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Making: </span><a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/chocolate-eclair-cake/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Chocolate Eclair Cake</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> for 4th of July!</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Writing: a reply to my sister-in-law's email</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 27.899999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Listening: to this song I am teaching my munchkins on the </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iPVrHE0JrB0" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Fruits of the Spirit</a></span></span></li>
</ul>
Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03303548637594636998noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-19831069409056274982014-05-31T20:50:00.003-04:002014-05-31T20:50:40.210-04:00My Summer ClassroomI have had my first week of summer preschool. It proved to be a little more choppy then anticipated. I believe that was largely because of two reasons....(1) everyone is getting into a new schedule, it is expected, and (2) we had a lot of new subs this week, and not all of our regular workers.<br />
<br />
We just finished up our space week, "Blast Off!", and are anticipating a week under water, "Sea of Fun". Here are a few pictures of my classroom.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5148728367834035092" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WPNExJHmqMNoaxWGs8EiVXFvTCEWgPeJu7up7ax07pasApFlnNeZPpB9ojLvHB-0UAsKQK8dxmJI056iqTKTsarh3rGdLaBx1TBnaloLnlkLiAv5hfk5c2IVGVqX-H3pLNLGyZuPF4w/s1600/WP_20140527_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WPNExJHmqMNoaxWGs8EiVXFvTCEWgPeJu7up7ax07pasApFlnNeZPpB9ojLvHB-0UAsKQK8dxmJI056iqTKTsarh3rGdLaBx1TBnaloLnlkLiAv5hfk5c2IVGVqX-H3pLNLGyZuPF4w/s1600/WP_20140527_001.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Qu0X4d5V3H2J3cr_tGm-aFmDurB9z1X1qldgEk7jidBrKFK1ZoSdMslhE1nganzT3shJtU-mh5MdXuypsf2akSf6n0fYj-JLIDTrWtUvaYyLBY6DHfSBsJHlpN60Ie36Vxz5EVbKkpY/s1600/WP_20140527_002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Qu0X4d5V3H2J3cr_tGm-aFmDurB9z1X1qldgEk7jidBrKFK1ZoSdMslhE1nganzT3shJtU-mh5MdXuypsf2akSf6n0fYj-JLIDTrWtUvaYyLBY6DHfSBsJHlpN60Ie36Vxz5EVbKkpY/s1600/WP_20140527_002.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9M8cGvxj-UlsmlYUIUyt0Ffh1YHLtAgkN0mTS8zUq9CRwKJLLFa6CZiuckSmDboO7Ms34p9hLCVm5TGUU8n3TZfTEle8ZLwCKzEDqjWEWkWjrdUADYBK9cgcBcCYdp26QLOf3TObZgQ/s1600/WP_20140527_003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9M8cGvxj-UlsmlYUIUyt0Ffh1YHLtAgkN0mTS8zUq9CRwKJLLFa6CZiuckSmDboO7Ms34p9hLCVm5TGUU8n3TZfTEle8ZLwCKzEDqjWEWkWjrdUADYBK9cgcBcCYdp26QLOf3TObZgQ/s1600/WP_20140527_003.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJSKMtaFjCFJsK6MGdQOrD1wLAPv7voyZ6Ref00s66TQle3EFpq167ETrFmu_OX_JDvqDjesWrnfHcG4oRzhuMPxdLLj2KZ9Bn-lHpNOxP0qlW4_HQ0vvTbbja9lexwXoHVJcFcUSoSg/s1600/WP_20140527_004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJSKMtaFjCFJsK6MGdQOrD1wLAPv7voyZ6Ref00s66TQle3EFpq167ETrFmu_OX_JDvqDjesWrnfHcG4oRzhuMPxdLLj2KZ9Bn-lHpNOxP0qlW4_HQ0vvTbbja9lexwXoHVJcFcUSoSg/s1600/WP_20140527_004.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK3PL1OdWhvArSwT2Oix2DUMQeXLsxj-by1ChfyiCE_SZV8M-qQh8MCbVf5xtaC6Fz5kaLZHvtSC0ghp99DMR7rVTh_e3CqO_bypIRDzU-TqaqKIK5hZkkYjvh4HXdtACA4y2s6hXKocs/s1600/WP_20140527_005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK3PL1OdWhvArSwT2Oix2DUMQeXLsxj-by1ChfyiCE_SZV8M-qQh8MCbVf5xtaC6Fz5kaLZHvtSC0ghp99DMR7rVTh_e3CqO_bypIRDzU-TqaqKIK5hZkkYjvh4HXdtACA4y2s6hXKocs/s1600/WP_20140527_005.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Gw5hOlIJrbBc5y-mCv5ToKF2lIhVCI-jzYTUuwUwNbsfXKBXYFp84PcJEEyp5nS9JVL_yHk11N160V1ukrwg2ilaWLKgwFo5SKqDrJQGFJ_98e-b8lBhWMxNWPU9Eqo0UXk6yGHNqZk/s1600/WP_20140527_006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Gw5hOlIJrbBc5y-mCv5ToKF2lIhVCI-jzYTUuwUwNbsfXKBXYFp84PcJEEyp5nS9JVL_yHk11N160V1ukrwg2ilaWLKgwFo5SKqDrJQGFJ_98e-b8lBhWMxNWPU9Eqo0UXk6yGHNqZk/s1600/WP_20140527_006.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt4oqNW4INMXZ7lH0tyVClfaVJ82xyt7mcqRciAyJRvuIs18syaod2Xs2nJOMrW8oaOlUKBVGnelh6DTrgRttMTRaEUEUNlRIJhGKS7YoBV8a29oWZAUlz77X70me83DUsZdlSnmuAUQo/s1600/WP_20140524_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt4oqNW4INMXZ7lH0tyVClfaVJ82xyt7mcqRciAyJRvuIs18syaod2Xs2nJOMrW8oaOlUKBVGnelh6DTrgRttMTRaEUEUNlRIJhGKS7YoBV8a29oWZAUlz77X70me83DUsZdlSnmuAUQo/s1600/WP_20140524_001.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO4Oeok_ki_zF7zjA2jEnbyf3JyC7gcrcQyPE9KHHwPgSLnT3ufP25-Qmw-jVzXA6A4KccOgPiOIZ1QZVsiujASug6E90sYsyqW9nyET1jQKmLOOod532-OJm_WHKrKkBNyB5J96Tj40s/s1600/WP_20140527_007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO4Oeok_ki_zF7zjA2jEnbyf3JyC7gcrcQyPE9KHHwPgSLnT3ufP25-Qmw-jVzXA6A4KccOgPiOIZ1QZVsiujASug6E90sYsyqW9nyET1jQKmLOOod532-OJm_WHKrKkBNyB5J96Tj40s/s1600/WP_20140527_007.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDb7bPMloQ4c4a0S4k4A4Dyig4micHNIWdkw0wL7QyILImKirdpW-8cUmeOukIT4hd259mT6Th1L3iOG-Qv6UYGHnima9o4ew-Wl0cxTXYB3ra4S3BVBlo3ogUiUwEsuVfzeGjmfqw2BQ/s1600/WP_20140527_008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDb7bPMloQ4c4a0S4k4A4Dyig4micHNIWdkw0wL7QyILImKirdpW-8cUmeOukIT4hd259mT6Th1L3iOG-Qv6UYGHnima9o4ew-Wl0cxTXYB3ra4S3BVBlo3ogUiUwEsuVfzeGjmfqw2BQ/s1600/WP_20140527_008.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzAG2nijoPIUpWtCZEm4HieLM2KzxE9yokG-ok1xDmH0P4ytepD1V2OYkpvrUb22S5Bxt7CTXPEPUiK_pkjs75cw8We1Q3wKs-NmbsaKwaNZtPl-K1jFBoCdDvm0pMvaTzReQwOgYGRw/s1600/WP_20140527_009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzAG2nijoPIUpWtCZEm4HieLM2KzxE9yokG-ok1xDmH0P4ytepD1V2OYkpvrUb22S5Bxt7CTXPEPUiK_pkjs75cw8We1Q3wKs-NmbsaKwaNZtPl-K1jFBoCdDvm0pMvaTzReQwOgYGRw/s1600/WP_20140527_009.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9QeJExwj2S3EU1bDSuY1o_OdKRpJZb2eFdm2IjBQIBTP9FL6PsV8V48kjGxeMbfw6CUNtArGiLsbwoFwGMbGUVsMVhWa7_Ambv8_eLQJAGdFJfy5feAUy1C4j4kYsEOSssd6136zYYN0/s1600/WP_20140527_010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9QeJExwj2S3EU1bDSuY1o_OdKRpJZb2eFdm2IjBQIBTP9FL6PsV8V48kjGxeMbfw6CUNtArGiLsbwoFwGMbGUVsMVhWa7_Ambv8_eLQJAGdFJfy5feAUy1C4j4kYsEOSssd6136zYYN0/s1600/WP_20140527_010.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqN02xEEOVUwFhKfPqk5dVbL8XZx5AcFvgE0_XtfFaejLoVl2NFupRZxKMFrLxa8MSe1DCMCVaJgvHyG2cyWM3Wm-XaD3P8Y85UsRqqdcvjtxmfd6KilOMslvWVn5WLOf2ljN3khM4bhU/s1600/WP_20140527_011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqN02xEEOVUwFhKfPqk5dVbL8XZx5AcFvgE0_XtfFaejLoVl2NFupRZxKMFrLxa8MSe1DCMCVaJgvHyG2cyWM3Wm-XaD3P8Y85UsRqqdcvjtxmfd6KilOMslvWVn5WLOf2ljN3khM4bhU/s1600/WP_20140527_011.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFoYTTmTVJap_JCKi0kTrSqmgm59pSHrj9Tz9GXHFk2NmEJJWpP9RJYMEopw7ag5aNpzdC-0xA6Jk8b2PnOBZZoMd98Fmj005bAWMueEbAUQxJYEVNilQs61QOs44S84FiMzbaYN3Otiw/s1600/WP_20140527_012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFoYTTmTVJap_JCKi0kTrSqmgm59pSHrj9Tz9GXHFk2NmEJJWpP9RJYMEopw7ag5aNpzdC-0xA6Jk8b2PnOBZZoMd98Fmj005bAWMueEbAUQxJYEVNilQs61QOs44S84FiMzbaYN3Otiw/s1600/WP_20140527_012.jpg" height="222" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03303548637594636998noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5148728367834035092.post-20676021569570255962014-05-19T10:43:00.001-04:002014-05-19T10:43:57.284-04:00May alreadyApril has come and gone and we are already over halfway through May. I took a much needed break from blogging. Between comments made referring to my blog, and other life happenings, I decided to take a month off. A few adjustments will be made to this blog. The biggest one being that I will not be posting as often.<br />
<br />
This blog will be transitioning from my happy wife and teacher adventures, to the adventures that the Mister and I share as a family. It is our long term goal to make it to the missions field, and this will be used as a pre-field newsletter site.<br />
<br />
Before we go to the mission field we want to be gaining a backbone of prayer warriors. Our need for prayer starts now, before we ever set foot on foreign soil. We are just regular people in desperate need of prayer. So we ask that you pray with us as we prepare for what the Lord has in store for us.<br />
<br />
Keep reading for a few specific requests....<br />
<br />
Daniel and I just celebrated our one year anniversary. If I were to give a newlywed one piece of "advice", I would say "Marriage is way better then most people make it out to be, and at the same time it is way harder." We have had our ups and downs, but I can honestly say I am thankful to share both the ups and downs with my best friend.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd36PMNC3hoUNeN65rowvgUEbhyphenhyphen_5zNUPIWZ7Bccpl4tHMtSxSbF7l89dgDS5LtABFFgX7zuAKbbl1BfwtwzCoU1vczKScqbfslXj1wZVFIcxYamMF16RG2nO7ccjFOO1Q4KqGvBhkfvU/s1600/100_2038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd36PMNC3hoUNeN65rowvgUEbhyphenhyphen_5zNUPIWZ7Bccpl4tHMtSxSbF7l89dgDS5LtABFFgX7zuAKbbl1BfwtwzCoU1vczKScqbfslXj1wZVFIcxYamMF16RG2nO7ccjFOO1Q4KqGvBhkfvU/s1600/100_2038.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-4qIBlAqxRM2me8ETGRjxLi122yr0VJJ8bQo3jkUfnTGbeD_LTSJf0hVUaPQp5sLGjKtjA1FLkJ5JxuL3QA45jgvaFHQtpdx82rf23ak-KOI6gUAgjy9ra7Ezp67OhMqkuRi0FvcGI8/s1600/100_2041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-4qIBlAqxRM2me8ETGRjxLi122yr0VJJ8bQo3jkUfnTGbeD_LTSJf0hVUaPQp5sLGjKtjA1FLkJ5JxuL3QA45jgvaFHQtpdx82rf23ak-KOI6gUAgjy9ra7Ezp67OhMqkuRi0FvcGI8/s1600/100_2041.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Reenacting our rehearsal dinner of baked potatoes for our one-year anniversary while watching our wedding.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsZRO0999AnkA0VtMa5xW-gsD0Ehf4X_U87xFlTLRTAsfuHaDWJDD1mFj3szzTwh-WWztvkoAsv-agg-yOb92ihdLyV5tyVt9tyY7uJayvud1NY1k0QScKpdV37OedEIFb3gkMNHE3Ug/s1600/100_2045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsZRO0999AnkA0VtMa5xW-gsD0Ehf4X_U87xFlTLRTAsfuHaDWJDD1mFj3szzTwh-WWztvkoAsv-agg-yOb92ihdLyV5tyVt9tyY7uJayvud1NY1k0QScKpdV37OedEIFb3gkMNHE3Ug/s1600/100_2045.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Unlike most other couples, our anniversary cake tasted so good. My mom did such a good job preserving it in the freezer.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQV1DfS6_5vW4RpW5BUQ5MGMlS8Xdb4xA8c8uI3P4bta_djmqTrJRudbtMyBSnPkacBJyq6jLgAk2DQ-ghmMdgmtL2sQuGE-2TqNcWZqx91aCkkBRCGc108casZSy_Pxv6deMjy3_0Cj4/s1600/100_2047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQV1DfS6_5vW4RpW5BUQ5MGMlS8Xdb4xA8c8uI3P4bta_djmqTrJRudbtMyBSnPkacBJyq6jLgAk2DQ-ghmMdgmtL2sQuGE-2TqNcWZqx91aCkkBRCGc108casZSy_Pxv6deMjy3_0Cj4/s1600/100_2047.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Dessert and sparkling cider while looking through our wedding album.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6uPDva8pUsTLa8lvsra3-FdxNn3UfuVlncO_vLe4GKL4bpKs3VqIhjg845sBZD0RTrFChfOjMRR2FPv4DvkkJ6uCx7zTSAiVbZcnkKQnLJ6UW0MGD26ZVLdh7dZANWO0kcuQbt9IyHpE/s1600/100_2048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6uPDva8pUsTLa8lvsra3-FdxNn3UfuVlncO_vLe4GKL4bpKs3VqIhjg845sBZD0RTrFChfOjMRR2FPv4DvkkJ6uCx7zTSAiVbZcnkKQnLJ6UW0MGD26ZVLdh7dZANWO0kcuQbt9IyHpE/s1600/100_2048.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>While on our honeymoon, we got Chinese take-out. We decided to continue to anniversary celebrations with getting take-out again...only one year later.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
We celebrated our one year anniversary a few weeks early by taking advantage of having the same days off and going to Washington, DC. We got to see a lot, yet still left feeling like there was so much we had not been able to see. To my surprise, the Air and Space Museum was my favorite stop. Our shorter day of the two, we figure we walked 7-8 miles. Our feet were <em>so</em> tired. The days together were so wonderful.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZnNeYh_0Qk4Cb8DNozA_GyTZquQgnHbi1h3pOyE_b0fd9ZKkWR5k2yHwlMpZBVZy0Hn_D1ev0NU7RQFPSAg2eV0Ufl_DBZrTFCOUSiNU-d-n8wFwjUZO4cE_6WoGmKRScLE8ccSsJV2c/s1600/100_1952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZnNeYh_0Qk4Cb8DNozA_GyTZquQgnHbi1h3pOyE_b0fd9ZKkWR5k2yHwlMpZBVZy0Hn_D1ev0NU7RQFPSAg2eV0Ufl_DBZrTFCOUSiNU-d-n8wFwjUZO4cE_6WoGmKRScLE8ccSsJV2c/s1600/100_1952.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEx23GUHw4fail7a-7S8KvghdCUPFm49ySCsl-yTTh1Iykrl_BzQeF4ad1OxsxW-KDlYXzRmV8AZT2DZgI2IrC8EDIJhBOImoMckGqmunVx8_x6ibLRLrYpdJcAxMbFceyEQyZ_5gqvuE/s1600/100_1975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEx23GUHw4fail7a-7S8KvghdCUPFm49ySCsl-yTTh1Iykrl_BzQeF4ad1OxsxW-KDlYXzRmV8AZT2DZgI2IrC8EDIJhBOImoMckGqmunVx8_x6ibLRLrYpdJcAxMbFceyEQyZ_5gqvuE/s1600/100_1975.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEtLE7osD6NuNzWhpwvjcq4-htpA9iwg_7K95iTF68EnyJRrNwvGW_uD45dnyDcYpaPUy_rZw_EKUZ4LzaCOp8zM3FhzCHIbjsojouUHGD_QwABpbJGbwy9p_wpTuju3ftFAAH_df4jm8/s1600/WP_20140401_010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEtLE7osD6NuNzWhpwvjcq4-htpA9iwg_7K95iTF68EnyJRrNwvGW_uD45dnyDcYpaPUy_rZw_EKUZ4LzaCOp8zM3FhzCHIbjsojouUHGD_QwABpbJGbwy9p_wpTuju3ftFAAH_df4jm8/s1600/WP_20140401_010.jpg" height="400" width="223" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifuAdOPA6Z1QA8J1jjwFi_QRbD3zCjS07KaQmqui6T4Rm_x9LJv-bRlxRc0HFyj4vERpT8hRTimGi5-T78n38VfmaJ0uQI08hFyLWA8OGGz4jMymvyAtliKWFQtFG07q-g586HoaOivHg/s1600/100_2027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifuAdOPA6Z1QA8J1jjwFi_QRbD3zCjS07KaQmqui6T4Rm_x9LJv-bRlxRc0HFyj4vERpT8hRTimGi5-T78n38VfmaJ0uQI08hFyLWA8OGGz4jMymvyAtliKWFQtFG07q-g586HoaOivHg/s1600/100_2027.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsRzJJYP38y4hrIfh4auVcTPRUpcdgAXWT7N3NES2Egh8cTpUt8HPhDEfx1ydSzEuu7MGMu48Z7C0GH4wky-0KF9FfZ42QbkTYJ9mffKYDFaUbmsOFpUOUlLzt4EzJsGQCpoKHYdFWCeE/s1600/SDC11610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsRzJJYP38y4hrIfh4auVcTPRUpcdgAXWT7N3NES2Egh8cTpUt8HPhDEfx1ydSzEuu7MGMu48Z7C0GH4wky-0KF9FfZ42QbkTYJ9mffKYDFaUbmsOFpUOUlLzt4EzJsGQCpoKHYdFWCeE/s1600/SDC11610.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Our most recent "big news" is that we very seriously considered moving to Alaska last month. Let me tell you, that was not an easy decision. Naturally, we both loved the idea of the "outdoorsy" aspect of the beautiful state, the fact that Daniel would be working on more similar planes to the ones he would work on the mission field, and a significant pay raise (for both of us!). We were torn though with leaving the east coast where the majority of our family lives (not to mention a sister who is 15 minutes from us), losing flight benefits, and the hassle of relocating. A lot went into the decision, and we decided to stay put for now.<br />
<br />
My (Rebekah) parents came to visit two weeks ago and we had a blast with them. They had not seen most of our wedding gifts, and not to mention....our home. It was fun to show them around our city and have them for a visit. We hated to see them leave.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl_o2mVwySUugYt5bqRCqyyFIyyPR5DvWKBwEOGFGvSynri4uCF3FkJ5JhK667f4wjoIv9pcJWBX0R2exprwB0X_KMJAGv-2TCNTUP1i_i3YiGkvFkZ2yYUy7NClxIFP-8Y9vS_mJG2JQ/s1600/WP_20140503_004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl_o2mVwySUugYt5bqRCqyyFIyyPR5DvWKBwEOGFGvSynri4uCF3FkJ5JhK667f4wjoIv9pcJWBX0R2exprwB0X_KMJAGv-2TCNTUP1i_i3YiGkvFkZ2yYUy7NClxIFP-8Y9vS_mJG2JQ/s1600/WP_20140503_004.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>As a wedding gift, my Dad made us the bed frame, and my mom made us the quilt. They brought them down when they came!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg-iEk0Ij1w1YDl1kKl2IlHlgp-eScuwJ7dz51nH2F3FE1XLqEYlrbA81qvf6CILOM1N35pKRVfA8DkB91ze22HgalJ5HNm1yAyvfAP5DKOmQPEbmRLiqSk6e-KZzRUoLyxdn3Vjv5OFM/s1600/WP_20140505_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg-iEk0Ij1w1YDl1kKl2IlHlgp-eScuwJ7dz51nH2F3FE1XLqEYlrbA81qvf6CILOM1N35pKRVfA8DkB91ze22HgalJ5HNm1yAyvfAP5DKOmQPEbmRLiqSk6e-KZzRUoLyxdn3Vjv5OFM/s1600/WP_20140505_001.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Mom and I had a fun ladies day out!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB3D4fXA9D7q-q_vUGAUJo9thoClA-WX3zmO2oDa0sbEmFxxnPx95qRimwKs6kYaLKSv-0s4Xr-7pRt1qkkVwbHEiLccfm-oLTOKM7hh0_IlvOxDP5e0D1ZNAQbYEvMWSTJaGPSFUWuVk/s1600/WP_20140506_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB3D4fXA9D7q-q_vUGAUJo9thoClA-WX3zmO2oDa0sbEmFxxnPx95qRimwKs6kYaLKSv-0s4Xr-7pRt1qkkVwbHEiLccfm-oLTOKM7hh0_IlvOxDP5e0D1ZNAQbYEvMWSTJaGPSFUWuVk/s1600/WP_20140506_001.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>My mom makes </i>the best<i> cinnamon rolls. She gave me her recipe, and taught me how to make them. So yummy....</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxFz4nd5InAqcR8sND_2u1uu7ZrJklzxsdOGiHA8OTfAo5fj6xc3bocxq53_uUIhMyHGPi1ZddVayCCf30FnXg-dOd6KAcHz1kYVZIeA9bPpzCcqRVtZOfOQkT1GoAUJ9NdCq-odDE04s/s1600/WP_20140507_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxFz4nd5InAqcR8sND_2u1uu7ZrJklzxsdOGiHA8OTfAo5fj6xc3bocxq53_uUIhMyHGPi1ZddVayCCf30FnXg-dOd6KAcHz1kYVZIeA9bPpzCcqRVtZOfOQkT1GoAUJ9NdCq-odDE04s/s1600/WP_20140507_001.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>On Wednesday morning, we went to the new stadium to watch a baseball game. While we all ended up getting sun burnt, we had a blast!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBDs_xiQaX5GgV9vjko3yNxW73RtUdiViYuS7Am7_QB7qbHOj5xcUSLKqQIetUN3XiEh2FigiDu1EEo4n4HoJv8qS3tZPDIpMbj3K-jLA5dqo6ykuQuFZUHTpmlbvgN5Ke2UQTVdwg138/s1600/WP_20140507_005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBDs_xiQaX5GgV9vjko3yNxW73RtUdiViYuS7Am7_QB7qbHOj5xcUSLKqQIetUN3XiEh2FigiDu1EEo4n4HoJv8qS3tZPDIpMbj3K-jLA5dqo6ykuQuFZUHTpmlbvgN5Ke2UQTVdwg138/s1600/WP_20140507_005.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
As the school years draws to an end, I am excited for the summer...not for a break from school, but rather to start teaching. I accepted the position of lead preschool teacher for our summer preschool ministry back in January, and have been planning for months. I am eager to get started and put my plans to action. This has been a fun change for me because in times past I have either (a) had to plan something very fast, or (b) plan a lesson for pretend students. I have had the opportunity to pour my heart into these lesson plans, and will actually get to teach them to real children.<br />
<br />
We don't have any large summer plans made yet, but plan to take advantage of flight benefits to take a few short trips. We hope to visit friends and family from all over the country.<br /><br />I think this about sums up our life right now. As promised, a few specific prayer requests:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Wisdom concerning both of our job situations.</li>
<li>That we would stay true to His word, and grown spiritually.</li>
<li>The Lord would grow our relationship with each other!</li>
</ul>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17301925349651391856noreply@blogger.com2