It's true. It's really happening. I created a new blog. I will probably leave this blog up for a bit until I am ready to close it down. I want to make sure I continue following all my favorite blogs with my new blog. It is still under construction, but for now, you can at least check it out and watch it grow over the next few weeks.
I am happy to be able to have a new blog space to write about my new life with Matthew. It will focus on our life together, not just about mine, but since he probably won't be writing any posts, I'll be doing the writing. It will still very much be my voice, humor and expect tons of pics. The blog will be more about the moments we create together, as we embark on this new journey together (approaching in about...8 months): marriage. I hope you all continue to follow me as I write the next chapter of my life.
The blog name? Oh yeah, you probably want to know that.......
Coachandtheprofessor.blogspot.com
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Ch-Ch-Changes!
With the new year, I have decided I need a fresh start, so I am making some changes and trying to create more of a "private" lifestyle. For example, deleting people I don't even recognize by name on Facebook.....changing my friend "status" on FB to be more "private" or as private as you possibly can be on the web....and then lastly, a new blog.
While I have loved Love, heels and little black dresses, I am ready for a change and fresh start. I first started this blog to help cope and start over after my divorce. As my life continues to move forward, more of me wants to really let go of the past and start over (again). To me, this means, deleting this blog and creating a new one for my new life with Matthew. I don't want to look back at old posts of my past that involved hurt and sorrow. I want 2013 to be the year that starts my life on a happier path. Does that make sense?
Don't be surprised when one day you log on and no longer see my blog. If you are interested in reading my new blog (when the time comes), please send me an email at loveheelsandlittleblackdresses@gmail.com with your email address sooner than later, as it will be set to private.
For those of you who have followed me the last three years, thank you.
While I have loved Love, heels and little black dresses, I am ready for a change and fresh start. I first started this blog to help cope and start over after my divorce. As my life continues to move forward, more of me wants to really let go of the past and start over (again). To me, this means, deleting this blog and creating a new one for my new life with Matthew. I don't want to look back at old posts of my past that involved hurt and sorrow. I want 2013 to be the year that starts my life on a happier path. Does that make sense?
Don't be surprised when one day you log on and no longer see my blog. If you are interested in reading my new blog (when the time comes), please send me an email at loveheelsandlittleblackdresses@gmail.com with your email address sooner than later, as it will be set to private.
For those of you who have followed me the last three years, thank you.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Thankful Thursday
Today, I am especially thankful for......
1. My soon-to-be-hubby....I woke up to breakfast in bed this morning.
2. My mama.....I asked her last night if I could have a piece of her wedding dress sewn into the inside of my wedding dress. She was nearly in tears on the phone. We have always had a special bond.
3. A roof over my head. I cannot imagine those on the east coast who have been affected by hurricane Sandy are going through. My heart goes out to them and they have been in my prayers ever since.
4. Old friends. I received some very special and encouraging messages yesterday. Messages of excitement and pure happiness for me and my upcoming nuptials. It is an amazing feeling to know you have people who love, care and are supportive of your future.
Have you stopped to think what you're thankful for lately?
1. My soon-to-be-hubby....I woke up to breakfast in bed this morning.
2. My mama.....I asked her last night if I could have a piece of her wedding dress sewn into the inside of my wedding dress. She was nearly in tears on the phone. We have always had a special bond.
3. A roof over my head. I cannot imagine those on the east coast who have been affected by hurricane Sandy are going through. My heart goes out to them and they have been in my prayers ever since.
4. Old friends. I received some very special and encouraging messages yesterday. Messages of excitement and pure happiness for me and my upcoming nuptials. It is an amazing feeling to know you have people who love, care and are supportive of your future.
Have you stopped to think what you're thankful for lately?
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Wedding planning update
It has been awhile since I last gave an update on our wedding planning.
Here's a picture of my life these days...
Matt and I are big on budgeting. We have an excel spreadsheet outlining our estimated costs and our actual costs for the wedding. We are saving all receipts, so they can be entered into our spreadsheet. A little OCD? Maybe. We just want to be in the know with all the details of our wedding, especially since we are paying for pretty much all of it ourselves. We are totally fine with this. It has been fun planning and figuring out the best way to save money and where we can afford to splurge, like our reception. Coupons have become my best friend. Michaels and Hobby Lobby see a lot of me....like on a weekly basis.
Here are a few ways we are saving money:
1. artificial flowers (Hobby Lobby has some of the best ones and they even feel real)
2. making our own wedding invitations. (I used to scoff at this idea, but they have turned out beautifully and I had no idea I had such a creative side).
3. COUPONS
4. postcard response cards (to save on postage cost)
5. stocking up on forever stamps now before the cost goes up late January 2013
6. my dear friend, Lyndsay, did our engagement photos for us as our wedding gift.
7. She is also making my veil, so we can pass it down to our daughters and keep it in our families.
6. my dear friend, Lyndsay, did our engagement photos for us as our wedding gift.
7. She is also making my veil, so we can pass it down to our daughters and keep it in our families.
8. picture save-the-dates (Walgreens + coupons = one happy bride)
9. our centerpieces will be multipurpose (not going to tell you what they are yet!)
10. saving every other paycheck for the wedding
11. setting a budget from day one. I cannot stress this enough. Put it writing, don't just talk about it. Decide what you want to splurge on and what you can spend less on or do without.
12. shop around for the best prices...with everything.
13. Make payments on things (i.e. photographer, DJ, etc) as you go, rather than waiting until right before the wedding. This will save you so much stress and anxiety about who you've paid and who you haven't.
14. Two words: dollar store.
15. What has really worked for us....having enough time to plan and save for our wedding. I would have loved to marry Matt sooner, but we knew before we got engaged, we would be paying for it, so we needed ample time.
Any additional wedding saving tips??
I plan to share what our total wedding cost was after the big day. I think it's important for people to find ways to have the wedding of their dreams without breaking the bank or going into debt.
Stay tuned....
For now check out this couple's low cost wedding....
YoungHouseLove
I plan to share what our total wedding cost was after the big day. I think it's important for people to find ways to have the wedding of their dreams without breaking the bank or going into debt.
Stay tuned....
For now check out this couple's low cost wedding....
YoungHouseLove
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Christmas in a red bag
This is just another reason why I ♥ my church.....
Gracepoint's Christmas in a Red Bag initiative to help those in need on the east coast.
500 RED BAGS are being filled this year for Christmas to help with hurricane relief! THANK YOU TO THE HUNDREDS OF YOU WHO ARE HELPING MAKE A DIFFERENCE! The response has been simply overwhelming.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Cheaters Never Prosper
I hate cheaters.
I know hate is a strong word, but cheating is one thing I will not tolerate. I don't get it. I don't mean the kind of people who cheat on diets or workouts. I mean people who cheat on their significant others.
Some people debate about what constitutes as cheating. To me, it is anything that is suggestive, flirtatious, hurtful to your significant other and family, anything questionable. If you have to ask yourself "is this okay to be doing?" then it is probably wrong. Stop. It.
I have witnessed the pain it causes people and even experienced it myself. It is something I would never wish upon anyone. Not even to those who have done me wrong.
Why do people cheat? Why do they think the grass is greener? It's not. They eventually learn, but it's usually a lesson too late. Or is it too late?
Can a cheater change? I would like to think so, but they have to WANT to change. And I don't mean they simply say they want to, but they have to feel and live that want to change. Cheaters have to change their lifestyle completely in order to truly change.
The moment you choose to put yourself in a situation that is questionable, you have started cheating. I know you might be thinking, No way! That's crazy! Is it?
Cheating always starts off as something so innocent. A friendly lift home....a drink after work....a deep conversation over coffee/lunch....a hug.
When you find yourself complaining to someone else, especially of the opposite sex, about your marriage or relationship, you are crossing the line. Why ever would you want to talk poorly of your spouse? Why would you want to put them down? Call them crazy? Or super jealous? Theyobviously have a reason to be if you are doing what you're doing and they are calling you out on it. Own it. Of course, if there is abuse involved, that's a different story. But if you're just griping about your spouse not cleaning up after themselves or nagging you all the time to do something, you are playing with fire.You are seeking attention from someone else.
If you don't remember my post from fall 2011, a letter to a hero who has let me down, you can read it here: "Dear B..." Writing that blog post was one of the hardest things I have done. I wrote it with tears rolling down my cheeks. I am sure he has read it. We haven't exchanged many words since then. It still breaks my heart to this day.
The choices you make not only affect you, but those around you. Remember that the next time you consider an innocent cup of coffee with someone of the opposite sex or who isn't your significant other.
Here's another blog post about the boundaries this couple made....Learning To Be A Wife
I know hate is a strong word, but cheating is one thing I will not tolerate. I don't get it. I don't mean the kind of people who cheat on diets or workouts. I mean people who cheat on their significant others.
Some people debate about what constitutes as cheating. To me, it is anything that is suggestive, flirtatious, hurtful to your significant other and family, anything questionable. If you have to ask yourself "is this okay to be doing?" then it is probably wrong. Stop. It.
I have witnessed the pain it causes people and even experienced it myself. It is something I would never wish upon anyone. Not even to those who have done me wrong.
Why do people cheat? Why do they think the grass is greener? It's not. They eventually learn, but it's usually a lesson too late. Or is it too late?
Can a cheater change? I would like to think so, but they have to WANT to change. And I don't mean they simply say they want to, but they have to feel and live that want to change. Cheaters have to change their lifestyle completely in order to truly change.
The moment you choose to put yourself in a situation that is questionable, you have started cheating. I know you might be thinking, No way! That's crazy! Is it?
Cheating always starts off as something so innocent. A friendly lift home....a drink after work....a deep conversation over coffee/lunch....a hug.
When you find yourself complaining to someone else, especially of the opposite sex, about your marriage or relationship, you are crossing the line. Why ever would you want to talk poorly of your spouse? Why would you want to put them down? Call them crazy? Or super jealous? Theyobviously have a reason to be if you are doing what you're doing and they are calling you out on it. Own it. Of course, if there is abuse involved, that's a different story. But if you're just griping about your spouse not cleaning up after themselves or nagging you all the time to do something, you are playing with fire.You are seeking attention from someone else.
If you don't remember my post from fall 2011, a letter to a hero who has let me down, you can read it here: "Dear B..." Writing that blog post was one of the hardest things I have done. I wrote it with tears rolling down my cheeks. I am sure he has read it. We haven't exchanged many words since then. It still breaks my heart to this day.
The choices you make not only affect you, but those around you. Remember that the next time you consider an innocent cup of coffee with someone of the opposite sex or who isn't your significant other.
Here's another blog post about the boundaries this couple made....Learning To Be A Wife
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Days of Thanks - Not Just for November
30 days of thanks is a great concept. I don't think it should only take place during the month of November though. We should be thankful for what we have...every day. So, I have decided to designate Thursday as "Thankful Thursday" for my blog. I don't do a regular weekly post like this, so I thought what better one to start?
For my remaining three days of November, here are my thanks.....
Day 28: I'm thankful my wedding dress came in....I was able to visit my hometown girls last weekend. Yay!
Day 29: I am thankful for my mentors. It is a great feeling to be given praise, encouragement and motivation to be successful and grow professionally. Followed by singing your favorite songs at the top of your lungs in the car. What an awesome way to end the day. :)
Day 30: I am thankful for my book club and the friendships I have established with these women.
For my remaining three days of November, here are my thanks.....
Day 28: I'm thankful my wedding dress came in....I was able to visit my hometown girls last weekend. Yay!
Day 29: I am thankful for my mentors. It is a great feeling to be given praise, encouragement and motivation to be successful and grow professionally. Followed by singing your favorite songs at the top of your lungs in the car. What an awesome way to end the day. :)
Day 30: I am thankful for my book club and the friendships I have established with these women.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Catching up on my thanks...
Day 16: I'm thankful for the emergency car kit Mark
gave me of random car stuff when I got my driver's license. I was able
help a MAN out tonight with his car.....I had a funnel. :) Thanks for
raising me to be a prepared and educated woman when it comes to cars.
Day 17: I'm thankful for Mike & Mary who created Hannah's Hope. They give so much of themselves to help other families. You two are amazing role models for your girls....for everyone.
Day 18: I am thankful for my amazing pastor. He helps guide people in their walk with God without judgement. He leads Gracepoint with love, faith and encouragement.
Day 19: I am thankful for nice weather, so I can run on campus during my lunch.
Day 20: I'm thankful for an awesome hairdresser. Thanks Wendy!
Day 21: The house smells amazing! It should. I made
caramel apple cheesecake, pumpkin cookies, homemade biscuits and beef
rice casserole. I'm thankful for a kitchen to cook all of that in. I've
been wearing my apron since 10am.
Day 22: I'm thankful for my friends and family. It was awesome to spend my morning with Matt and our fellow runner friends in the turkey trot.
Day 23: I'm thankful for my gal pal, Jamie, to go shopping with on Black Friday.
Day 24: I'm thankful for quality time and shopping with my mama.
Day 25: I'm thankful for my grandma. She's just the sweetest and funniest person I know.
Day 26: I'm thankful for our precious niece, Ella. I light up whenever I'm around her. Her giggles, hugs and love make me excited to become a mother (some day).
Day 27: I am thankful for lunch dates with my future hubby on a work day.
Day 17: I'm thankful for Mike & Mary who created Hannah's Hope. They give so much of themselves to help other families. You two are amazing role models for your girls....for everyone.
Day 18: I am thankful for my amazing pastor. He helps guide people in their walk with God without judgement. He leads Gracepoint with love, faith and encouragement.
Day 19: I am thankful for nice weather, so I can run on campus during my lunch.
Day 20: I'm thankful for an awesome hairdresser. Thanks Wendy!
Day 22: I'm thankful for my friends and family. It was awesome to spend my morning with Matt and our fellow runner friends in the turkey trot.
Day 23: I'm thankful for my gal pal, Jamie, to go shopping with on Black Friday.
Day 24: I'm thankful for quality time and shopping with my mama.
Day 25: I'm thankful for my grandma. She's just the sweetest and funniest person I know.
Day 26: I'm thankful for our precious niece, Ella. I light up whenever I'm around her. Her giggles, hugs and love make me excited to become a mother (some day).
Day 27: I am thankful for lunch dates with my future hubby on a work day.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Advice from mothers about mothering
I don't know why I have babies on the brain lately, but I do. Matt and I aren't even married yet (10 months to go!). I am not in any hurry (not like I used to be...ya know...like when I was "younger"). I think because more of my friends are getting preggers and having playdates that no longer include me, I am beginning to have "baby fever" as they call it.
I have heard all kinds of advice from a variety of mothers I know. Different ages, different religions, different upbringing, different cultures, etc. They rarely ever say the same thing. This is very confusing for someone who wants to become a mother. Because of this very fact, I have a lot of anxiety about having children and doing things "right." I know, I know.....I am going to make mistakes and nothing is ever exactly "right."
Advice I have been given:
- don't spank your kids
- spank your kids...they need discipline (not gonna happen in my house, peeps!)
- breast feed
- don't breast feed
- don't name your kids all with the same first initial (unless you're nuts like the Duggars...love them!)
- don't feed them peanut butter until a certain age
- don't give them milk
- give them lots of milk, but only vitamin D
- enroll them in daycare
- in-home daycares are better
- don't trust anyone at a daycare center chain
- only allow your family to babysit
- hire a nanny
- don't hire a nanny
- read to your child when it's in the womb - it can hear you
- don't buy anything - you will get a lot of gifts
- circumcise...don't circumcise
- don't drink or smoke when you're pregnant
- a glass of wine or beer is okay when you're pregnant.....??!!
- half-day kindergarten.....full-day kindergarten
Ugh! The list goes on and on. What advice have you been given? What advice would you give? What works and hasn't worked for you, and why?
Emelia over at Trying To Be Good wrote the following blog post about the topic:
All the advice I have been given so far from mothers about mothering.
I have heard all kinds of advice from a variety of mothers I know. Different ages, different religions, different upbringing, different cultures, etc. They rarely ever say the same thing. This is very confusing for someone who wants to become a mother. Because of this very fact, I have a lot of anxiety about having children and doing things "right." I know, I know.....I am going to make mistakes and nothing is ever exactly "right."
Advice I have been given:
- don't spank your kids
- spank your kids...they need discipline (not gonna happen in my house, peeps!)
- breast feed
- don't breast feed
- don't name your kids all with the same first initial (unless you're nuts like the Duggars...love them!)
- don't feed them peanut butter until a certain age
- don't give them milk
- give them lots of milk, but only vitamin D
- enroll them in daycare
- in-home daycares are better
- don't trust anyone at a daycare center chain
- only allow your family to babysit
- hire a nanny
- don't hire a nanny
- read to your child when it's in the womb - it can hear you
- don't buy anything - you will get a lot of gifts
- circumcise...don't circumcise
- don't drink or smoke when you're pregnant
- a glass of wine or beer is okay when you're pregnant.....??!!
- half-day kindergarten.....full-day kindergarten
Ugh! The list goes on and on. What advice have you been given? What advice would you give? What works and hasn't worked for you, and why?
Emelia over at Trying To Be Good wrote the following blog post about the topic:
All the advice I have been given so far from mothers about mothering.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Continuous thanks
Day 10: Today I am thankful for Starbucks coffee, hot baths and wine.
Day 11: Happy Veterans Day to everyone who serves and has served our country. I am forever thankful and grateful for brave people like you.
Day 12: I'm thankful for my job. Check out my soon-to-be-office....#May2013.
Day 13: I am thankful for my close-knit friendships and good conversations with my girl friends. There's nothing like a long, random, out of the blue, conversation with a girl friend. It's comforting. Every girl needs 'em. I cherish the few quality friendships I have. My closest best friends reside outside of the state. I miss them dearly. Thank goodness for Facebook, texting, emails, and the phone. I do like to occasionally send them a little note in the mail just because.
My closest (Indiana) friends have become my two very good friends, Meg, and Stephanie. Meg and I hit off quickly over our hair. LOL. Stephanie is such a super cheerleader for mine and Matt's relationship.
Day 14: I am thankful for Jared's Jewelers. They are the best. I swear by them and their customer service. I love their lifetime guarantee and their personal inscribed identification number in their diamonds.
Day 15: I am thankful for girl time with friends. I am looking forward to dinner & shopping tonight with a few of my favorite ladies.
Day 11: Happy Veterans Day to everyone who serves and has served our country. I am forever thankful and grateful for brave people like you.
[my brother, Bill]
Day 12: I'm thankful for my job. Check out my soon-to-be-office....#May2013.
Day 13: I am thankful for my close-knit friendships and good conversations with my girl friends. There's nothing like a long, random, out of the blue, conversation with a girl friend. It's comforting. Every girl needs 'em. I cherish the few quality friendships I have. My closest best friends reside outside of the state. I miss them dearly. Thank goodness for Facebook, texting, emails, and the phone. I do like to occasionally send them a little note in the mail just because.
My closest (Indiana) friends have become my two very good friends, Meg, and Stephanie. Meg and I hit off quickly over our hair. LOL. Stephanie is such a super cheerleader for mine and Matt's relationship.
Day 14: I am thankful for Jared's Jewelers. They are the best. I swear by them and their customer service. I love their lifetime guarantee and their personal inscribed identification number in their diamonds.
Day 15: I am thankful for girl time with friends. I am looking forward to dinner & shopping tonight with a few of my favorite ladies.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Day 6, 7, 8, 9 of thanks
I was traveling for work this week, so my blog has been abandoned for a bit.
Day 6: I am thankful for the right to vote.
Day 7: I am thankful for the bus driver who held the bus for me while I ran across the parking lot this morning...the woman who helped me figure out the MARTA train system....my iPhone for keeping me company during my solo dinner and a warm place to rest my head after traveling all day.
Day 8: 2 airports, 2 planes, 2 trains, 2 car trips and 4 buses in 36 hours....I'm thankful to be home safely.
Day 9: I am thankful for my sorority, my lifetime of sisterhood....I ♥ Phi Sigma Sigma.
Day 6: I am thankful for the right to vote.
Day 7: I am thankful for the bus driver who held the bus for me while I ran across the parking lot this morning...the woman who helped me figure out the MARTA train system....my iPhone for keeping me company during my solo dinner and a warm place to rest my head after traveling all day.
Day 8: 2 airports, 2 planes, 2 trains, 2 car trips and 4 buses in 36 hours....I'm thankful to be home safely.
Day 9: I am thankful for my sorority, my lifetime of sisterhood....I ♥ Phi Sigma Sigma.
Faith & Politics
My thoughts on politics.....
While everyone is riled up about the election, I am just thankful to have someone brave enough to step into the shoes of presidency. It takes a strong person to take on that role. Think about it. Would YOU want to make all of the decisions for a country with differing opinions about gay marriage, of different faiths, of difference cultures? Not me.
I think about my job.....trying to please 800+ people for a big event. It's impossible. Just like it's always going to be impossible for everyone in the United States to ever agree on one person to lead our country. How could we expect that one person as president to make the decisions WE all want?
A friend of mine posted this on Facebook. It's so true if you think about it. While, yes, it's funny, it's true. It takes time to make change. Something so big and so important as this cannot happen over night.
You might say, "Well, I know who you voted for."
Truth is, I would say the same
thing if a Republican or a Libertarian had been president these
last four years. I am not Democrat or Republican. I vote for the person I
believe the most in. I am not one to shove my political views in your
face. I never have and never will. Nor will I ever share who I vote for,
because I don't feel like being criticized or judged or lectured. I
read enough of everyone's political rant on Facebook.
I am trusting Obama to lead our country and I trust God will help him.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Are you "in love" with God?
This seemed like a strange question to me when asked in our community group book Crazy Love. My response - I had never really thought about it that way.
While people went around the room sharing their thoughts, I continued to to think about it more deeply.
What does it really mean to be "in love"?
Is it different than when you are "in love" with your spouse and with God?
A younger girl, in her early twenties, said it was difficult for her to define the meaning of being "in love," because people her age are often facing that question in their relationships. Do you like like him or do you LOVE him?
I concluded that my definition of being "in love" with someone is commitment.
While some describe being in love to be what they see in the movies.....the googly-eyed, people who are happy 24-7, no cares in the world, and say I love you every half hour. Yes, I believe this exists, but we all know that we are not like that 24-7. We have our bad days, our days of exhaustion, our days of forgetfulness, our rushed days, our routine days, and our great days.
One wife commented that she wouldn't say she is "in love" all the time. There are moments of spiritual numbness. I don't agree.
I would hate for Matt to say he is feeling numb in our relationship.....numb to our love or our marriage. Or worse, that he's not in love with me, even if it was just that day. I don't believe that in relationships you are granted days in which you are not in love with that person. You might be arguing that day, but that doesn't mean you aren't in love with them anymore.
I have heard those words before from someone I was in love with and it hurts and it's real. It is not something to be said lightly.
I think people are in love with someone and then think they love someone else is really just infatuated with someone else or it could be that they simply care about someone else. Love can be taken different ways. But in that situation, an "in love" relationship does not one day wake up and say "I think I love someone else." That is not being "in love" with someone. That my friend, is infatuation in my eyes. Temptation like that is a sin and not to be confused with being "in love."
Being in love is more than just three words: I love you.
For me, yes, I am in love with God. I am committed. I will not stray
from Him.
I view this as the same way I view my relationship with Matt. I
am committed through the good days and the bad days and I will not
stray.
Have you asked yourself lately, Am I in love with God? Something to think on.
Monday, November 5, 2012
Gone Girl
So, our book club selected our next book to read....Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn. It's a new one out on the shelves. I couldn't wait to buy it. We chose the book Friday night and I bought the book Saturday. I started reading it Saturday night.
Ahh!
I have a trip coming up to Georgia, so I needed some reading material for my flights. Also, our plan is to have it read by our next gathering which is Nov 30. I only have a few weeks to read this.
I am looking forward to our next meeting, because we are mixing it up and going to a restaurant for drinks and appetizers. This will be our last get together before the holidays.
If you're looking for a mystery book, check out Gone Girl.
Many more thanks
I missed a couple days over the weekend to write about what I am thankful for, so here they are.....
Day 3: I'm thankful for girl time with one of my favorite friends and for my amazing fiancé for babysitting so we could have a girls day together.
Day 4: I am thankful for a roof over my head - a place I can clean, decorate and call home.
Day 5: I am thankful for the opportunity to teach and help students prepare for their future. It's a gift I am honored to have been given.
Day 3: I'm thankful for girl time with one of my favorite friends and for my amazing fiancé for babysitting so we could have a girls day together.
Day 4: I am thankful for a roof over my head - a place I can clean, decorate and call home.
Day 5: I am thankful for the opportunity to teach and help students prepare for their future. It's a gift I am honored to have been given.
Friday, November 2, 2012
Day 2 of Thanks
Today I am thankful for my church band's music. I have a CD of their's and boy does it help me get through those trying days.
I am also thankful for Matt. He is the best fiance. He does the little things that really make a difference. For example, he couldn't sleep this morning, so he picked up the house for my book club's gathering tonight. He is such a sweetheart.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
30 Days of Thanks
Today, as the first day of November, the month in which Thanksgiving falls, I am going to start a 30 days of thanks blog series.
I have never done this before in my blog - I snagged the idea from another blogger.
While we should be thankful everyday, let's be honest, it's not likely that we take a few minutes each day to reflect on the things we are thankful for. I encourage others take on this project of 30 days of thanks too, whether you blog, journal, whatever.
Today, I am thankful for.....
* dayquil to help get me through the work day
* my life in the Midwest - that keeps me safe(r) from natural disasters others in the U.S. are faced with regularly
* my local car mechanic place who looks after my car and my safety
* money in my bank account - to buy the little things, like kleenex, bread, winter gloves, etc that we all take for granted, while others less fortunate struggle to stay warm and barely have food to survive each day, let alone worry about blowing their nose into something soft and convenient.
What are YOU thankful for?
I have never done this before in my blog - I snagged the idea from another blogger.
While we should be thankful everyday, let's be honest, it's not likely that we take a few minutes each day to reflect on the things we are thankful for. I encourage others take on this project of 30 days of thanks too, whether you blog, journal, whatever.
Today, I am thankful for.....
* dayquil to help get me through the work day
* my life in the Midwest - that keeps me safe(r) from natural disasters others in the U.S. are faced with regularly
* my local car mechanic place who looks after my car and my safety
* money in my bank account - to buy the little things, like kleenex, bread, winter gloves, etc that we all take for granted, while others less fortunate struggle to stay warm and barely have food to survive each day, let alone worry about blowing their nose into something soft and convenient.
What are YOU thankful for?
Midwest Life Taken For Granted
I was thinking about this the other day....how we, Midwest folks, take life here for granted. We complain about no ocean to swim in, no sandy beach lifestyle, and the snowy winters.
Well, since hurricane Sandy has hit the east coast, I am learning to appreciate my life here in our little Midwest. Winter here doesn't seem so bad compared to the water that swallows homes, tosses cars and drowns the city streets.
Who are we to complain about windy days or pouring rain? I thank God for my life here. I pray for those who have been affected by Sandy. I cannot even begin to imagine what they are going through.
Isn't it sad that it takes a disaster such as this for us to realize what we have and count our blessings?
With the cold winter days lingering ahead in the coming months, I will bite my tongue whenever I feel the urge to whine about the cold or the snow. I will embrace the tiny white blessings from the sky and be thankful I have not endured worse conditions from mother nature.
Come spring, I will appreciate the cool rainy days, the dry Indiana clay in which I have to work with in an attempt to plant flowers, the miles of cornfields and flat land that surround my hometown, and the few days in the summer when I can enjoy a nice swim in Lake Michigan.
This has been a lesson learned - Midwest life should not be taken for granted.
Well, since hurricane Sandy has hit the east coast, I am learning to appreciate my life here in our little Midwest. Winter here doesn't seem so bad compared to the water that swallows homes, tosses cars and drowns the city streets.
Who are we to complain about windy days or pouring rain? I thank God for my life here. I pray for those who have been affected by Sandy. I cannot even begin to imagine what they are going through.
Isn't it sad that it takes a disaster such as this for us to realize what we have and count our blessings?
With the cold winter days lingering ahead in the coming months, I will bite my tongue whenever I feel the urge to whine about the cold or the snow. I will embrace the tiny white blessings from the sky and be thankful I have not endured worse conditions from mother nature.
Come spring, I will appreciate the cool rainy days, the dry Indiana clay in which I have to work with in an attempt to plant flowers, the miles of cornfields and flat land that surround my hometown, and the few days in the summer when I can enjoy a nice swim in Lake Michigan.
This has been a lesson learned - Midwest life should not be taken for granted.
Monday, October 29, 2012
Pray Out Loud
My heart has been flooded with prayers for people in my life and even complete strangers. I would like to take a few minutes to write my prayers down and to share in hopes that you can add these people to your prayers too.
Dear Lord, please watch over and care for the following people:
1. My brother, Jerry's friend, Ethan and his family. They recently lost Ethan's dad. My heart breaks for all of them, especially Ethan, because he is so young. Ethan was one of my students when I did my student teaching in college.
2. My brother, Mark's friend, Pat, who just this weekend committed suicide. Hearing his story breaks my heart. A recently divorced, father of 2, who lost everything in his split with his ex. I pray for his two children, especially, who lost a loving father who was struggling with life.
3. My church friend, Katie, who is searching for her purpose in life right now and what God's plan is for her. She is feeling very lost and she is young working professional away from family.
4. My church friend Julie - her mother, who recently found out that she has lung cancer.
5. My friends, Jill and Mike and their baby, Gia, who still has not come home from the hospital due to a lot of health complications. She was born early in May 2012.
6. My brother, Mark, who was recently deployed to NJ. He is an EMT. I pray that he arrives and return safely. He is so brave and I admire the work he does every day to save lives.
7. My brother, Jerry, who is still struggling, I know, with the troubles he has faced with our older brother, Brandon. I pray these two will some day mend their relationship and find love in their hearts again for each other.
8. My brother, Bill, who is recently deployed with the Navy until March. I pray for safe travels. He only has two years left of service. I am very proud of him and everything he does to keep us all safe.
9. My brother, Cody, who is always seeking in his place in the world. I pray that he some day finds the direction God has meant for him.
10. My mom. She is recently on her own again after a long relationship with her ex. I pray that she find comfort and strength to do life with God. I pray that she realizes she isn't alone - that God is with her and will look after her.
11. My grandma, who is still finding her place in this world as a widow. She is doing well and I pray this continues. She has struggled so much after my grandpa's death. I cannot imagine losing the love of your life after 45+ years together.
12. My dear friend, Ellie, and her dad. He is battling cancer and has been for awhile now. I pray for his good health and peace in their lives.
13. My co-workers and their safe travels back to the office.
14. My church, as we go through some changes. I hope our new transitions keep us in line with our mission and vision for our church.
15. My pastor, Ben, he is so strong and probably has a lot on his mind and heart these days. With his long-time friend, and co-pastor, move on to a new church.
16. My fiance, Matt. He doesn't know it, but I pray for him daily. I pray that he arrive safely at school and basketball practice and home. I pray that he know and feel the love and commitment I have for him and our relationship. I pray that he never doubt me or my love.
17. My nieces, Jade and Ella. These two little girls hold a very special place in my heart. They are my world. I would do anything for them. I am always praying for them. I pray they feel and know the love their fathers have for them despite actions and decisions made a couple years ago. No little girl should ever not know her father or the love he has for her.
18. I pray for all those who are on the east coast as hurricane sandy approaches. I pray for their health and safety.
I pray for all those that I have missed in this prayer. I will try to make this Pray Out Loud post a regular weekly thing.
Thank you, God, for all that you do in my life. I am so grateful and I am reminded of your everlasting love and forgiveness. This last week was a wake-up call and reminder of all that you have done for us. I pick up and carry my cross for you, always, Lord. Amen.
Dear Lord, please watch over and care for the following people:
1. My brother, Jerry's friend, Ethan and his family. They recently lost Ethan's dad. My heart breaks for all of them, especially Ethan, because he is so young. Ethan was one of my students when I did my student teaching in college.
2. My brother, Mark's friend, Pat, who just this weekend committed suicide. Hearing his story breaks my heart. A recently divorced, father of 2, who lost everything in his split with his ex. I pray for his two children, especially, who lost a loving father who was struggling with life.
3. My church friend, Katie, who is searching for her purpose in life right now and what God's plan is for her. She is feeling very lost and she is young working professional away from family.
4. My church friend Julie - her mother, who recently found out that she has lung cancer.
5. My friends, Jill and Mike and their baby, Gia, who still has not come home from the hospital due to a lot of health complications. She was born early in May 2012.
6. My brother, Mark, who was recently deployed to NJ. He is an EMT. I pray that he arrives and return safely. He is so brave and I admire the work he does every day to save lives.
7. My brother, Jerry, who is still struggling, I know, with the troubles he has faced with our older brother, Brandon. I pray these two will some day mend their relationship and find love in their hearts again for each other.
8. My brother, Bill, who is recently deployed with the Navy until March. I pray for safe travels. He only has two years left of service. I am very proud of him and everything he does to keep us all safe.
9. My brother, Cody, who is always seeking in his place in the world. I pray that he some day finds the direction God has meant for him.
10. My mom. She is recently on her own again after a long relationship with her ex. I pray that she find comfort and strength to do life with God. I pray that she realizes she isn't alone - that God is with her and will look after her.
11. My grandma, who is still finding her place in this world as a widow. She is doing well and I pray this continues. She has struggled so much after my grandpa's death. I cannot imagine losing the love of your life after 45+ years together.
12. My dear friend, Ellie, and her dad. He is battling cancer and has been for awhile now. I pray for his good health and peace in their lives.
13. My co-workers and their safe travels back to the office.
14. My church, as we go through some changes. I hope our new transitions keep us in line with our mission and vision for our church.
15. My pastor, Ben, he is so strong and probably has a lot on his mind and heart these days. With his long-time friend, and co-pastor, move on to a new church.
16. My fiance, Matt. He doesn't know it, but I pray for him daily. I pray that he arrive safely at school and basketball practice and home. I pray that he know and feel the love and commitment I have for him and our relationship. I pray that he never doubt me or my love.
17. My nieces, Jade and Ella. These two little girls hold a very special place in my heart. They are my world. I would do anything for them. I am always praying for them. I pray they feel and know the love their fathers have for them despite actions and decisions made a couple years ago. No little girl should ever not know her father or the love he has for her.
18. I pray for all those who are on the east coast as hurricane sandy approaches. I pray for their health and safety.
I pray for all those that I have missed in this prayer. I will try to make this Pray Out Loud post a regular weekly thing.
Thank you, God, for all that you do in my life. I am so grateful and I am reminded of your everlasting love and forgiveness. This last week was a wake-up call and reminder of all that you have done for us. I pick up and carry my cross for you, always, Lord. Amen.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Book Club Reading List
I promised to share my book club’s reading list, so
here it is:
1.
The
Shack: Where Tragedy Confronts Eternity by William Paul Young
2.
Change
of Heart by Jody Picoult
3.
Dancing
at the Shame Prom by Amy Ferris & Hollye Dexter
4.
The
Marriage Plot by Jeffrey Eugenrides
5.
The
Wife's Tale by Lori Lansens
6.
The
Homecoming by Dan Walsh
7.
Little
Earthquakes by Jennifer Weiner
8.
Good
in Bed by Jennifer Weiner
9.
The
Guy not Taken
by Jennifer Weiner
10.
Prep by Curtis Sittenfeld
11.
The
Man of My Dreams by Curtis Sittenfeld
12.
The
Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks
13.
The
Choice by Nicholas Sparks
14.
Baby
Proof by Emily
Giffin
15.
Where
We Belong by Emily Giffin
16.
There's
Cake in My Future by Kim Gruenenfelder
17.
Long
Drive Home by Will Allison
18.
All
We Ever Wanted Was Everything by Janelle Brown
19.
The
Baby Planner by Josie Brown
20.
Secret
Lives of Husbands & Wives by Josie Brown
21.
Room
by Emma Donoghue
22.
The
Weird Sisters by Eleanor Brown
If you have any good book suggestions,
let me know. I am hoping to choose our next book in November.
Our current book by Jennifer Weiner,
Good in Bed, is amazing. I am only about half way through it, but it has been
great so far. I love the twists and turns in a story.
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