Wonderful, but not white

Christmas was amazing, as always, but definitely not white here in the Piedmont of North Carolina. Even the temperature difference between the mountains (where we live) and here is quite substantial....we're sweating to death in DECEMBER! Well, if Christmas was only great if it was cold I suppose the countries around the equator would have gotten rid of it long ago. The Eddy family Christmas was on the 23rd and it was great to see that side of the family. We only see them twice a year and since I was in Ireland last year I hadn't seen them in a pretty long time! Dave hadn't really even MET that side of the family, the only time he had seen them was at the wedding! I think I mentioned this in the previous blog, but oh well. We had the Fisher (mom's side) Christmas gathering on Christmas eve, and that was loud and crazy as always. We took family pictures by immediate family this year, as the whole family doesn't fit in one picture anymore. We realized that MY immediate family is over HALF of the Fisher family in it's entirety...there are 16 of us, including my sister and brother's kids. Well, the Christmas eve service was wonderful as it always is, wouldn't be Christmas without going.
Christmas day just our immediate family got together and we played some games and let the kids play with their toys, and just chatted and laughed together. I think Christmas day is my favorite. We don't normally go anywhere (except this year because it fell on Sunday--church), and we just get to relax and enjoy the family and chaos of them all.
Well, I'm off to play "Scene It" with everyone. Dave and I will be heading back to the mountains tomorrow.
I love my big, loud, chaotic family dearly.

Have a Happy New Year!

Thought these would at least give you a holiday smile....they got quite a big laugh outta me! MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Tomorrow tomorrow it's only a day AAAAAWAY!

Well, tomorrow we're heading to Charlotte to have Christmas with my dad's side of the family. We're going to gather at his sister's house. We use to go to my grandparents, but their house is a lot smaller, and our family doesn't fit in there anymore. Plus, it's not very kid friendly, and since my aunt has kids, Shannon and Shaun's kids can run and play as they like and not be too worried about breaking something valuable. Which, all in all, makes for a MUCH more relaxing time for everyone.

Today will be my last time in the library for a week or two, I wonder, will I go into withdrawal? Perhaps. I have gotten into a bit of a schedule in the last week, a routine if you will. I decided that I would enjoy this time since come the 2nd week in January I'll be back in school full time. So, I've been sleeping till 11 (yes, I can't believe it myself!) and then getting up, tidying up the house, showering, then making lunch for when Dave comes home at 1:00. Then, when I drop him back off at work at 2, I go to the library for 1 to 2 hours. I check my e-mail, write some, check all the blogs, and sometimes talk to Dave's family over Skype. Now if you haven't heard of Skype, it is an internet program that lets you talk to people worldwide just like you were on the phone, but through the computer, and for FREE! I hide in the reference section so that I can talk to them and not disturb other people. Although, the other day one of the librarians came up to me and asked me if I was ok. I guess they thought I was talking to myself! I suppose I must have looked quite weird with my mouth really close to the computer, whispering, lol. I explained that I was using Skype and had he heard of it? Yes he had, and liked it very much. So, at least they know I'm not crazy now, or much anyway, lol.

I've also gotten into an awful habit (although I REALLY enjoy it, really is awful though) of looking at the gossip magazines. I also look up the gossip specifically on the AOL site, which will tell you EVERYTHING you want to know about everyone in Hollywood. My biggest searches right now are, of course, the Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey break-up (I was REALLY rooting for them to get back together), Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie (him adopting her kids, I think that's really awesome), and of course how Jennifer Aniston is taking it (I think I like the sarcastic side of her that's come out since their divorce). I even buy the magazines in the grocery store, but not often. I suppose it helps me not gossip about "real" people, as I call you and I, and I'm not really gossiping about them, I just READING about it. Ack, I know it's still awful, but I just can't seem to get a grip on it!

So, question of the week: Are you ever curious of Hollywood gossip? Do you scan the front pages of the scum mags at the store or mall? And what do you REALLY want for Christmas? (just thought I'd throw that last one in, I mean, it IS Christmas).

Good times

Yesteray, as you know, was our Christmas together. We had such a great time! Dave got me a Rummikub game! I know, you've probably never heard of it, but our family use to play it when I was a kid and I really liked it. Anyway, it's like the 60th anniversary edition, so it has this lil carrying case and everything, very cute. I also got a SUPER cute hat from Helen (my sis-n-law), THANKS HELEN, and some cool socks, a bright shawl (from Spain), and coffee from my parents-n-law (and you KNOW how I feel about cool socks and brightly colored things,....and coffee, lol). After we opened our presents we made breakfast together....apple cinnamon waffles..mmmm and read some of the book that I gave Dave for us to read together. Then, after we went to church, we roasted the chicken and potatoes. They turned out SOOO well, DEEEELICOUS. Dave wants to roast chicken all the time now! So, we had a good day.
Tonight we're having our small group from church over for dessert and coffee. I'm making a cake and probably some choc. chip cookies. Then we're going to play that present game where you can keep the one you have or take someone else's, but in the end everyone ends up with something. The fun part is you still don't know what it is, becaue they are all wrapped! The only thing I'm nervous about is how we're gonna fit 8 people (including Dave and I) into our living room, since the Christmas tree takes up HALF of it, and we still don't have a couch! Ah well, we'll make do. At least we have heat, so it will be warm.

Only 6 more days till Christmas guys!!!!

Night before Christmas, sort of

Tomorrow Dave and I are going to celebrate our first Christmas together. We decided since he works every other day this week and we head to my parents on Friday, that this is how we would do it. We're gonna roast a chicken! Yes, Dave said he's always wanted to roast a chicken, so I said fine, but it has to be small; I don't want to spend your only day off cooking all day. We're also having roast potatoes and cooked veggies. I'm making apple crisp for dessert. It's not Christmas pudding, but it will have to do for this year. Maybe Sylvia (my mother-n-law) can teach me how to make one next year! I know Dave would love it.

Well, I'm exhausted! I had a wonderfully full day with my girl-friend Christina today. We went and saw the remake of Pride & Prejudice. Dave was VERY excited about this, as he was let out of seeing it with me. We had SUCH a good time! We went and saw the movie at noon and then had a late lunch at Applebees and then went to Starbucks! And we talked the whole way through (except for the movie of course)! Christina is a Spanish teacher here in town, and she's from Mexico. I love to listen to her accent, but sometimes I can't understand what she's saying, even when she's speaking English! Of course, she doesn't understand me when I speak "southerneese," as Dave calls it, either. Anyway, it was great. I miss going to the movies with girls to see a chick flick. Dave goes with me to alot of them, but he can't enjoy it like a woman does; or talk about and analyze it afterwards. Ok, I'm going to act like a very old person and head to bed. I can barely keep my eyes open, and it's only 8:45! I do have an excuse though, and here it is: we didn't get to bed till 1:30 this morning from watching a movie, then I didn't sleep all that well, and then I got up early to make breakfast before Dave had to be at work. So, see there, that was 3 excuses, that should be enough to let it slide. So I'm off then.....good nig......~snoring~

eeek....10 days 2 ways

Wow, it's been 10 days since I posted! Sorry about that! Guess I've just been trying to get the house cleaned and all the Christmas presents done. We finally shipped our last one yesterday, the international ones that is, for Dave's grandparents. I made them a photo album, and I think they'll really like it. It took forever, but I put alot into. I really hope it gets there before Christmas, but I'm not gonna hold my breath.
I haven't heard back from WCU as to whether or not I've been accepted yet, but, that's ok, I'm confident that it will happen....or that God has other plans for me. I'm not stressed about it anymore before, because, well, there's nothing I can do about it! I've done my part and now all I can do is wait....and bug them by calling every day to find out the progress...lol. Dave and I are going to celebrate our Christmas on Sunday of this week. That is the only day he has off any time at all this week, and next Friday we'll be heading to my parents house. I'm excited about our first Christmas together, I even got something for his stocking! Now I just need to find some candy. Helen do you know what his favorite candy is? He doesn't really eat that much here, so I don't have a clue.
It's raining again. It's been doing alot of that lately. Not much snow however. We did get a bout of it on Monday night as we were driving back from Asheville, we could barely see out the windshield! But, it didn't stick, it was too wet and warm for that. We were on the way to see the Chronicles of Narnia movie, which was EXCELLENT! The critics gave it 2 stars, but what do they know. They did get one thing right though, they said the story was very much like "Passion of the Christ" movie. That's why they didn't like it, cause the story line was similar. Pitty they don't get WHY the story line was similar, cause it's not just another story. I thought it was a great time to release the movie, right around Christmas. The producers did a good job at marketing to the Christian crowds too. Course they knew they could make more money that way, even though they said plain and clear that they WERE marketing to the Christian crowds but playing DOWN the Christian themes, themes they didn't believe were there anyway.
Christmas is only 10 days away folks! Are you excited yet? I am. Course I get to see all the kids and family, so of course I'm excited. Children really do make Christmas fun. I mean, as you get older Christmas presents really don't matter, but seeing little kids putting all their toys together, and holding a candle at the Christmas eve service; you remember how amazing this time of the year is. The Christmas eve service was SO special to me when I was that age. I got to hold that lighted candle and feel all important, and then they turned the lights off and all you could see was everyone's candle....it was special! Then we go back grandmama's and just talk for another hour, and eat some leftover ham and turkey and drink coffee (I loved coffee even then!). I loved on Christmas day that we would get up and read the Christmas story, and we would ALWAYS have grapefruit and pancakes! I looked forward to that grapefruit, cause that was the only time of year that we would get any! We would get to open our stockings first. We would always get something little in our stockings along with candy. Like a bracelent or when I was a kid a My Little Pony. I still look forward to stockings at my parents house, I always get really cool socks! I love cool socks. Everyone here always makes fun of my socks...cause they're neon orange or bright green with Oscar the Groutch on the them. But they make people smile, so what's not to like!
Ok, I've rambled on for quite a bit this morning, so I'm gonna cut myself off now. Guess I'm just in a reminiscent mood. Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good afternoon.

officially off my butt

Today I finally applied for Western Carolina University's English Education major. It felt REALLY really good to actually be doing something pro-active to finish my degree. I still have lots to do, but just to be started was a great relief. So, now I'm REALLY excited to be going back to school come January; guess it feels like I'm actually going now, instead of just thinking about it.

Dave and I had a day off together today. It was great, feels like we hardly see each other anymore because of how much he works now. But, I just have to remember that it's just until January. Then maybe he'll have a job with a bit more reasonable schedule, even CAMP couldn't be this bad. After we signed up at the college, we ate lunch and did some Christmas shopping. Then we came home and played on the internet. It was nice just to hang out together. I just soak up my time with him whenever I can get it.

I have a doctors appointment tomorrow. I would like to share a lilttle bit about it with all of you guys, most of my family already knows. They found something a few months ago that wasn't quite normal. We tried a way of treating it by just boosting my immune system, but when they tested again, they found it was still the same. It's nothing scary or life threatening, but just pray that we'll be able to treat it easily, or pray for a miracle, that it'll just be gone. It's going to take probably a year of doctors appointments to see where it goes, so just keep me in your prayers, I'm not fond of doctors :).

On a lighter note, we will be sending out Christmas cards soon--so look for yours in the mail! If you don't get one, we probably just don't know your mailing address, so send it our way via e-mail! Love you all!

darkness--a jumpy sorta time

With Dave working late 4 nights a week till the end of December, nighttime is very scary for me. I have always had a extravagant imagination. When the evening dusk turns to dark, my nerves are always at attention; waiting for anything that may be lurking in the shadows to put me into a panic. Just now, as I sit in the living room typing to you from the light of my Christmas tree (lol), sounds from the outside conjure stories in my head. Was that big bang outside someone parking? Slamming a car door? I HEARD A JINGLE!!! Is someone trying to get into the apartment. There's silence now, but I'm sure my heart rate is higher than normal. Dave will be home in 30 minutes....they couldn't come soon enough. But what if something happens before then! I'm online....I can't use the phone to call the police! If someone busted in right now I would be stuck! No one would know! THERE WAS A CREAK AT THE BACK DOOR! MAYBE THEY COULDN'T GET IN THE FRONT AND ARE AT THE BACK NOW! OH NO! Yes, this is what my head does all night. I try to ignore it most of the time. My logic works very well. See, the way I see it, if I sit very stile, nothing will happen----yup! It's worked so far, so I'm stickin to it. THAT WAS DEFINITELY A CAR DOOR!!!!!! Or maybe something just hit my car.........hmmm. I'm still not moving.

Christmas time of year

Thanksgiving was amazing. I loved being around all the family and I got to see the new HARRY POTTER MOVIE!!! It was the best of the H.P. series yet, LOVED IT! Plus, Bethany, Dave, and I went after Thanksgiving shopping around 7 am the next day, LOTS of fun. I bought a lot of stuff, mostly for myself, oops! But, I did get a few Christmas presents, so I wasn't completely bad.
Dave and I picked up our first Christmas tree the other day; it was so exciting! The house smells SO wonderful now (real tree smell). Shannon (big sis) had given me a few things to decorate the apartment with, and they were a perfect amount; couldn't have fit any more in! We put TONS of lights on the tree....500 to be exact (that's what the box said). So, the tree is very bright and beautiful. We decided not to overstock the tree with ornaments (since there's really not much room for them after the lights anyway, lol), but we bought just enough and added a few I had bought just for our first year. We'll collect tons over the years I assume. Before we decorated we had to go buy a Christmas cd to listen to. It's sort of an tradition that my family always had. It has Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, and a whole lot of the classic singers; great cd. We thought about buying some eggnog(another tradition) but realized neither of us really like it, so we had hot chocolate instead (new tradition of our own). I LOVE Christmas! Makes me extremely happy and oft times giddy (just lookin at the tree!). Well, I gotta head outta here to meet the youth. Youth group (or 24/7 as it's called for the highschoolers) will be starting soon. Love you all!

Thanksgiving and Snow

Well, as promised, I will tell you what my favorite things about Thanksgiving are. I'm going to use bullets, cause I'm a violent person.

• Number one HAS to be family. I love spending time with all my extended family. I also love that it's only short period of time. It keeps it sweet and not too many arguments can break out in that time.
• Turkey. My Grandmother cooks the best turkey.
• Dinner discussion. Kyle (cousin) always has hilarious jokes about work and people in general.
• Nephews and Nieces. They are always running wild and amusing everyone.
• Football and parades. Watching football on Thanksgiving with family and shouting! What could be better! The parades are pretty cool to watch too, they have some really amazing floats in the NY parade.
• Leftovers. Enough said.

the end

It snowed in Bryson City yesterday. It snowed alot actually; it was REALLY beautiful. It came down most of the day! But, it didn't stick. Which was fine with most everyone, considering there will be quite a bit of traveling going on today and the day after Thanksgiving. I still get REALLY excited every time I see it though--I called Dave up from work and said "IT'S SNOWING!!!" Then I said, bye! lol I love snow! Canada really spoiled me with mass amounts of it. I really miss looking out the window of that rickety, old house and seeing 4 feet of snow this time of year. ~sigh~

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

MY SUPER-FLY BOOTS!

Go here to see my new Rain Boots/ Wellies!!! THEY'RE AWESOME!!!!

http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/sr=2-5/qid=1132355849/ref=sr_2_5/602-8926420-5350239?%5Fencoding=UTF8&asin=B000AXBWO0

back at the parents

Well, we made it here. The drive seemed extremely short, but maybe it was because my parents and I just chatted the whole way home. Dave is spending the day in Asheville looking at different gear shops and probably doing some bouldering. I'm heading to my older sister's house to see the kids soon.
It's so much warmer here than it was in the mountains. Although that should be assumed I suppose, considering we're in the piedmont now. I packed too many warm clothes me thinks, or just too many clothes in general. But hey, at least I don't lock my own kids in the car...lol Sis

A short good-bye

Tomorrow I'm headed to Asheville to hitch a ride home with my parents. My dad has been there for the last couple of days for a business conference and I decided (since I haven't heard back from the jobs I applied for) to take off for a few days. I'm going home for Wednesday and half of Thursday, then heading to Winston-Salem to hang out with my college friends for a few days. So, I'm sure I'll blog from there, but it may be a few days, or tomorrow, who knows. I hope to see my wonderful nephews while I'm home, I miss my boys.

Speaking of twins, I had some VERY bizarre dreams this week. On the same night I dreamed that I had gotten two puppies, one that was white with brown spots, and one brown with white spots. Then I dreamed I had twin boys, one blond and one brown headed. I pray that this is not a vision of the near future. lol

I'm headed out for now. I still need to pack. I've been in the bed most of the day, trying to get rid of THE worst head-ace I've ever had. I woke up with it, and have NO idea how I got it. It lasted most of the day and subsided FINALLY around dinner time. I think it may have something to do with not drinking much water lately, and possibly stress. Dave was very, VERY sweet, and made sure I didn't move too much and stayed in a dark room. He even brought me my lunch!

So, question of the day***what is the weirdest dream you can remember having?***

Belated Happy Birthday

HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY CHRISTOPHER SPICER! I meant to blog this on your actually birthday, but I forgot, SO SORRY! Although, since you haven't blogged in 5 dog years, I'm not sure you'll even read this! I hope things are going WONDERFULLY for you and Emily and that your birthday was a big success. I love and miss ya Canadia boy!

Birthday wishes aside, I have gotten over my food poisoning. I called my mom yesterday and found that she had gotten sick too (I gave her some of my lamb, oops!). But, she made it out alive as well.
Tomorrow Julie (my small group partner for the high school girls) and I will be going to eat lunch at the highschool to encourage some of the Christian girls that we know there to come to the youth group! Plus, there is one that already comes that just needs to know that we care about her, so, we'll probably be doing some image boosting as well. Of course, hopefully, we'll be putting our face and name out there so that girls that aren't in the youth group and aren't Christians will get to know us by our (hopefully) weekly visits and we will begin a repore(I have NO clue if that is how you spell that) with them too. Pray that everything goes well in that and that maybe we'll have one or two more girls there on Wednesday nights. Then, tomorrow night Dave and I will be going to Skate and Bike night at the camp just to hang with the kids (mostly guys) again, and hopefully I'll remember a few more names (I'm SO bad with names).
Please continue to pray for a job for myself as the options around this area are few and far between. I am still doing some work at the resturant at NOC, so at leaste I'm getting in 15 or so hours next week.

Thanksgiving is coming! For us US citizens that is. For you Canuks it has come and gone, but that doesn't alienate (no pun intended, ha ha) you from the question of the day. So here it is:
***What is your favorite thing about Thanksgiving?*** I'll answer that for myself next week!

food poisoning

Yesterday was so amazing. The Biltmore Estate was beautiful all decorated for Christmas. There were MASS amounts of people there, but it was still fun. I overheard one of the employees saying there would be 6,000 people there today---SHEW! Glad we didn't go today. My parents and I had a great time just visiting together. I bought a Christmas tree ornament for Dave's and mine first tree of our own this year. After we left the estate we went to dinner. We had a great dinner and chatted for hours! Then I drove home. I made it home fine, but then something started churning in my stomach. I had Greek food, and everything was wonderful...except the lamb didn't taste quite right. I told Dave about it, and he said that kind of lamb was very rampant for food poisoning. It's the kind that is sliced VERY thinly and put in a rotisseri style case and cooked. SO, I was suppose to be at work right now. I had every intention of going. I got up, got ready, even started driving! By the time I got to the center of town every lil bump in the road almost made me throw up. I stopped by Dave's office and called in sick. Ugh, I really wanted to go to work today too. But, I was going to work at the restaurant at NOC, and being around food right now is the LAST thing I think I could do. So here I am, trying to be as still as possible and hope this goes away quickly. At the same time I'm mainlining Pepto Bismal (i love the taste-yes weird, but quite helpful in times like these). I'm heading to grab my book then lay quietly in the sun. yuck.

***question of the day*** Have you ever had food poisoning? How do you get rid of it?

frozen

when we woke up this morning, it was FREEZING! And I do mean freezing, as in freezing temperatures, as in 32' F (which is 1' C for all you Canuks and UK'S). Seems we may actually be headed into winter! Although, it is suppose to be 65 again this afternoon. Well, Just thought I'd drop you all that very chilly note, ha ha. I'm off to see my mum and dad at the Builtmore House! Thanks for all the encouraging notes on my last blog, they really helped "up" my mood.

Question of the day: Honestly, how many people sometimes wear things because they look good instead of how they feel or keep you cool/warm? My husband is ALWAYS saying no one else does these things (i don't do it ALL the time!)

Crashing cymbals

Today was an emotionally exhausting day. I went to apply for a job working as a substitute teacher first, no prob. Then I got on the internet to see what I could find out about going back to school in January to get a degree in English Education. I got onto both sites of the schools I will be attending (Western Carolina Uni. and Southwestern Comm. College) and found the classes that I would need to take. I also found out prices for tuition....ugh. Tuition isn't bad for a state school if you are in state, but it's still more than we can afford right now. So, we're going to have to go for state financial aid and I'm definitely gonna need a consistent part time job, and it just started weighing down on my shoulders. I started asking myself these questions: what if I can't make it? What if I can't pass the classes? How long is it going to take me to get done with? But then, I looked at the class descriptions, and they sound like a blast! I love English, so the act of going back to school won't be that bad. I mean, in an English education degree there is little other than English classes. Yes there will be one more science which I will have to slave over (I'm NOT the best at science) but all in all I can get through it God willing. Now I just need to find a consistent job (sounds like an echo from several of my blogs huh?). I know I can do it with God's help, but it's not going to be easy.

p.s. my parents are coming tomorrow! We're going to see the Builtmore Estate together. Can't wait!

Question of the day: When something comes up that you know is going to be a struggle, physically and emotionally, what do you do to get yourself through that task?

to infinity and beyond

Well, the last day at NOC went well. I'll still be working at the resturant some during the next couple of months if they need me, but other than that I'm done. I'm pretty much just cleaning house and doing laundry today. Tomorrow night is Skate and Bike night at the camp. We have started going just to get to know some of the kids in the community that we don't see at church.

We did go see Jarhead last night---different reviews of the movie from Dave, but I liked it. It's pretty graphic at points and there are DEFINATELY some things that could have been left out, but I liked it. I wouldn't recommend anyone under 18 go see it though. Pretty much any of those movies make me want to go in the service still. There was a stint in high school when I had decided I was going--but got talked out of it. Sometimes I wish I had gone, because I don't feel I have the liberty to go anymore. If there was ever another war where they really needed people though, I would still seriously consider it. I would love the chance to fight for my country, no matter how hard it was to actually get on the field (boot camp, etc). I'm the kinda person that watches G.I. Jane and gets inspired to actually enlist. I talked to several marines this weekend, they were part of the group that was at NOC, and it just sounded amazing. I would love to jump out of a plain for a living. I mean, it's scary as all hell, but if it wasn't, you wouldn't do it, it would be too easy.

***So here's my question of the day, to the women out there: have you ever wanted to go into the service? Why or why not?***

I'm going to start doing those alot; Q's of the day that is.

last day

Tomorrow is my last day at NOC for the winter. It's a lil nerve wracking considering that I don't have another job to replace it yet. Hopefully soon though. If I can get my butt in gear and apply to different places. I guess I'm still stupidly waiting for the job that I REALLY want to call back--that being the store that just opened up in town called Rural Girl (i hate that name though, who can say it anyway!). It's a cool hippie type store (obviously my style) that has clothes, throws, candles, jewelry, and just gerenally cool stuff. I didn't think I would ever want to do retail work, but, like I said, it's just a cool place to be. I just finished updating my resume yesterday and plan to turn it in to the school for some substitute teaching and any other place I can think of around here. The problem being that there really isn't all that much work available in a tourist drivin area in off-season. Oh well, I know God will get us through the winter. We're going over to some friends house tonight to watch the last several Survivor episodes that we've missed. I'm excited about that. Tomorrow night I think we may go see Jarhead. That movie looks really good.
P.S. Bethany-if we can work this out I'd love to try and see the Harry Potter movie together. Don't know how that would work, but maybe it's a possibility.

brown milk

I went to the doctor several weeks ago to get a check-up and ask a few questions. I have had exzema since I was born. It is a skin condition that makes your skin very dry and itchy sometimes, and can break out easily into rashes. Well, I haven't had problems with it since I was 8, however, this fall, it came back with a vengence. So, I asked my doctor about it, and she said---milk. Milk is a skin irritant, and really isn't meant for adults to drink. It also produces mucus by masses so winter cold season isn't a good time to drink lots of it. Anyway, she said, stop drinking milk, use this creme (can't pronounce it), and some olive oil. Well, it's clearing up pretty well, but there's still one problem. I love cereal. I love eating cereal in the morning. And it's just not that great with water (0r orange juice, tried that by accident one day...ewwww). So, I've moved on to something different. ¬cue the point of my title¬ soy milk. Yes folks, I now drink soy milk. Did you know soy milk is brown? I pretend it's chocolate milk. It tastes pretty grainy to me, but I'm getting use to it. And by the time you get done w/ your Frosted Mini Wheats, it tastes pretty much the same as regular milk--AND IT'S GOOD FOR YOU! So, that's my story for today.
p.s. pray that I can find a job soon. My last work at NOC for the season is next weekend. I would love to do something I haven't done before, and something that isn't a desk job. Thanks!

first personal encounter

Two little old ladies just pulled up to my door. They were looking for my neighbor, but I told them she hadn't been here much the last couple of days. I had a sneaking suspicion I knew what they were there for. I didn't think they were family of hers. They weren't family, but they soon figured they'd just talk to me. First we started talking about the weather, then Halloween and trick or treaters. Then it started edging where they wanted it to go. They said some awful things happen on halloween; they really didn't know how people could let kids be a part of such a holiday. Then I ask the question of the day--"do you go to church in town?" "We're Jehovah's Witnesses, we go to a place called Kingdom Hall to worship where we can learn about The King and his scriptures." Ah hah, we have a winner folks. And so we've gotten to the point of their visit. I was glad Courtney wasn't home. They read me two scripture verses, 2 Peter 3:13-14. They talk about a new heaven and earth and hope and peace. After one of the ladies read them to me, she said "doesn't that sound good?" I just nodded. She asked if I ever thought about those things. I said yes, that I got to a church in town called Franklin Grove. That was a good length of time for me. I hadn't figured out what to really say to them. My dad would always ask if he could pray with them. So I just thanked them for stopping by, and took their 2 pamphlets they had given me. They said I had made their day. As soon as I closed the door I prayed for them. Next time I'll have a good answer, be able to witness to THEM. But it brings up a good question, this whole experience, what can you say to someone when you know so little about THEIR religion. I plan to read the pamphlets.

if it can't see over the headlights, run it over

....well I did. I didn't do it on purpose, I PROMISE, but I did hit a black cat today. It ran right out in front of my car, I EVEN SWERVED! I looked back through my rear view window and could see it squirming in the road, so I knew I hadn't killed it. I thought about driving off, but then thought it might be someone's pet, and maybe it could be saved. So, I turned around. Yes folks, the person who sorta hates all fuzzy beings turned around for a hurt animal. When I got back, it was gone. But, there was an old couple standing out on the porch across the street who said it went that way (and pointed down the street). So I went a couple of steps in that direction and found it on the porch of a house, sorta shivering and looking pretty scared. I asked the old man if he knew who's it was. He said it was sort of a stray, but the porch it was sitting on, the guy who lived there, fed it. So I went and knocked on the door and told the man I had hit his cat and his back legs looked broken. He came and picked the cat up and it made some awful noises; it's back legs just sorta dangling. I guess it pulled itself off the road w/ it's front legs. I said I had swerved but it ran right under the car, and I was really sorry. I was heading to church at the time. The pastor told me the guy would probably shoot it. I thought that was a good idea, I didn't want it to be in any pain or anything. If I had killed it I probably woulda kept going. I thought about going back and running over it again, but, like I said, it was gone when I got back. So, that's the sad story of the day. Sorry cat lovers--I'm sure the cat is in a less painful place now---the ground.

ins and outs

This last week has been interesting. Not really busy I guess, but it sure had felt like it. I haven't worked much, for MY department anyway. I have worked quite a bit for Rivers End Resturant at NOC though. I worked there today and yesterday, and I'll probably be working there Monday and Tuesday. Then next weekend is THE big event at NOC. It's the Guest Appreciation Festival. NOC sells ALL their used kyaks, paddles, spray skirts, helmets, etc etc etc. It is the biggest gear and boat sell on the east coast. Anyway, there are also some fun events that happen during GAF. Dave and I are in charge of the movie premier night on Friday and the halloween haunted trail on Saturday. Plus some pumkin carving and apple bobbing, and a few costume contests in between. Hopefully we'll be able to put OUR costume pictures up on here, if we remember to get pictures of them. I think they'll be pretty hilarious.
This weekend Sheena, my best friend, is FINALLY coming up to see us. She came one day in the spring, but that was really rushed. She is currently stuck in traffic between here and Asheville. Hopefully she'll be here w/i the hour though.
I think tonight is some formal for the highschool or middle school around here, cause I've seen 2 couples go past in prom gowns and tux's so far. They're really cute though. Anyways, I gotta get outta here, hopefully Sheena will be here soon. ttyl!

so long dear tag board, and goodnight

I have figured out why the pop-ups are popping up when you access my blog. It was my tag-board that was doing it. See, they use different companies advertising to pay for tag-board.com. So, I have gotten rid of it. This is how much I love you Shannon. Now, no more pop-ups will bother us, but it is sad day. I will miss you tag-board, but it is worth the sacrifice. Maybe I will find something better to replace you.

you can never say "i love you" too many times in one day

i'm listening to the Charlie's Angel soundtrack right now. Jake,one of my best guy friends, downloaded it for me in highschool. It's the only good thing about the movie--the music that is. But this blog isn't about Charlie's Angels, at least I don't think so. I mean, I know several Charlie's, but none of them have angels. I'm sure the one's that are married think their wives are angels (maybe), but only one of them is married, so the rest I don't know about. ANYWAY--getting past Charlie....

Dave and I have been married 6 months. It doesn't seem that long, it's flown by. It's almost winter and it still feels like summer to me (maybe it's because the leaves haven't even started changing here yet, all the locals are very upset about that, it's not good for business, all those old people come to the look at the leaves and THEY'RE ALL GREEN). Marriage is alot like I thought it would be--good times, tough times, fun times, rainy days in, tired evenings dragging in from work, laughing so hard you cry, crying over 'spilled milk', being completely idiotic w/ each other, and snuggling whenever possible. But this is what I've found out about Dave in the last 6 months.
1-- he falls asleep as soon as his head hits the pillow-sick, mad, or @ 8 pm
2-- if i'm reading, he's sleeping, he says my voice is just soothing, but whatever, I put him to sleep
3-- he really hates to clean, unless he just happens to be in the mood
4-- he does NOT know how to match clothes- Dave, camo and stripes DON'T go together Honey.
5-- it's not the different side of the road, he just can't drive
6-- if i don't fall asleep before him, i'm gonna get "run over" by an 18 wheeler
7-- he thinks he's invincable
8-- he assumed he would always live like a boy
9-- "clean" is a optional word in the mens dictionary
10--he loves me no matter how bad of a mood i'm in

These are the few things I'm learning about marriage:

1-- no matter how many times you wash clothes, the basket will be full by the end of the week
2-- pasta is a great meal to cook when there's not much in the house; "we have a tomato, some garlic, a mushroom, and half a squash-PASTA IT IS!"
3-- as long as there's food in the house, they're happy
4-- a hug at the beginning of the day & when you walk through the door at the end of it, make an AMAZING difference to a bad day
5-- if you can laugh at yourself, no matter the circumstance, it can probably be fixed, or ignored till later
6-- they fell in love with who you are and who you will be, not just who you were, so remember to let each other grow and encourage lots
7-- marriage is great for the ego, all the things you hate about yourself they probably love the most--cause it makes you you!
8-- anything you do together is time well spent
9-- you have to listen with your heart, not your ears sometimes
10- if you want to love forever, and to share your lives together, you have to always forgive, always keep that secret language you have between you, make big decisions together, tell the truth, think-then speak, love each other unconditionally, and pray together
---I love you Dave--you are trully my other half. I've never met someone who's let me be more completely me, and helped me find out what that is. You make me shine.

Dumbledore is not dead!

OK, so you remember my rant on the latest Harry Potter book, and how I hated the ending. Well, I know if you are a real Harry Potter fan you've already read it, so I'm spilling the beans on the ending. Dumbledore DIES! If you don't know who that is, OBVIOUSLY you're not a fan, but he's really the main adult character of the book. He's Harry's mentor, advisor, & friend, and also he's the headmaster of Hogwarts (the school--duh). It was a VERY traumatic end to the book I looked forward to for over a year, and I was not happy about it, and extremely depressed. Well, recently some new light has been shed on this very grim matter. One of Dave's friends e-mailed him this site-- www.dumbledoreisnotdead.com !!! If you ARE a Harry Potter fan, this will give you SO much hope for the last book, and maybe a little solace that things may turn out alright for Harry in the end. If you're not a fan, you've probably stopped reading this by now, and don't wanna try the site anyway. Have it your way, your missing out.

Dawson's Creek

Yes, all of you LDP that were with me are groaning at the mention of that show (except Candice of course). I was sick on Friday and rented it from the video store. Season 3 that is. I had rented season 4 last, but realized I hadn't seen all of season 3, so I'm back tracking. I'm almost done, and Dave is SOOOO glad! :)
We went boating again last night and I tried the Jackson Fun one more time to see if maybe it had gotten better since the last time I was in it. It hadn't. I REALLY detest the seating arrangements in that boat, they are HORRIBLE!!! I was surfin lots and I've almost mastered rolling w/0 a nose plug. I don't wear one anymore cause I just hate the way they feel, and am doing pretty well rolling w/0 one. I've also got my stern squirt from both sides! I LOVE doin them now! They're so fun! I'm terrible at enders, but that's Dave's forte. Anways, the real drama comes in towards the end of the evening last night. We were still boating and I was getting tired. I told myself just a few more stern squirts and we'd go. I wet exited 3 times in the next 15 minutes, and the last time, Dave's pretty sure I concussed myself. Yeah, I was acting sorta weird for the rest of the night, laughing hysterically one moment and crying the next, it really scared him. I must have hit my head coming out the last time, on the boat actually. I just don't understand how you get concussed wearing a helmet! Whiplash maybe, they say it can happen that way too, I dunno. It was weird though. He wouldn't let me go to sleep, so I stayed up and watched Dawson's Creek until he was convinced I was ok to go to bed. Fun night all in all I would say! lol The moral of the story is--don't buy a Jackson Fun, they can get you concussed!

a view through the window 

foot in mouth disease

I'm going to try and make up for my horrible rant on Democrats now. Not to say those 2 mornings were fun, or even pleasant, but all democrats are not responsible for it, and all them do not act that way. That guy was just being a jerk, and his political views had very little to do with it. If he had just kept them to himself and agreed to disagree nothing would have happened--he was immature like you said Molly.

I guess I've just been having a really hard time lately with unpleasant people. See, around NOC, Christianity isn't really looked highly upon. If I were a Buddhist or had a Guru, or just thought that people were generally good, then I would automatically be accepted. The problem is, I'm not, and I don't condone those things. I'm sorry I don't think one person is responsible for the destruction of the world. I don't play the blame game every day, and it seems like everyone there does--even with the staff around them. I hate it, and it's discouraging. First, I wish people could be more accepting of each other. That is one thing I have learned being at NOC, that you have to accept people for who they are, not what they do or believe in. I guess that pretty much contradicts everything I said in my "democrat" blog, but I was angry, and I jumped into the blame game w/ both feet, sorry. I just want to serve God so much, and it seems there are so few Christian ministries to work in around here. I know my work place is a HUGE mission field, but I don't know what to say to them! I don't know anything about Buddhism or Guru's, and I'm such a bad example of a Christian that going on looks alone they're NOT coming to Christ. I just feel very defeated most of the time--there for the pay check but checking out. I love working in the outdoors, but how am I suppose to use that for God? I don't know yet. I feel like every time I start a new job I think, "this is the place I'm gonna start fresh for God, be an example from the beginning." And that lasts all of 2 days. Where to start? I don't know, but I feel like I'm being beat down from every direction at work. I really don't want to argue w/ anyone, I just want to run away from it---but is that the answer?

This is a picture from Hurrican Katrina...amazing huh? I have lots more, if you want me to e-mail them to ya just ask! 

Amazing Grace

I love this feeling that I have right now, the one that I get after being around Christians all night and having great discussions about God. It’s amazing isn’t it?! What God can do with your heart and your desires when you let Him? I would NEVER have imagined I would have wanted to do God’s will with this kind of desire when I was in high school. God was always a “I know I’m really suppose to want to do this stuff but I really just do it cause I have to” kinda thing. I love the fire that He has put in me right now; the heart he’s given me for missions, or just to serve Him in any way I can and to the best of my abilities. I almost cry when I think of how far God has brought me. And then I think of the rest of the journey, but I know that He’s going to walk with me the whole way. Wow, just wow is all I can say right now. We just got done with a small group meeting. I have to tell you, before we went I had almost decided I didn’t want to lead one anymore, that I hardly knew these people and how could they really ask me to do something like this so quickly! Well, too bad Satan, I’m not backing down, I’m just gonna have to study harder and pray more. Jason, the youth pastor at our church, just gave me a great entrance to a ministry/internship for next year. He wants me to intern at the church and work with the youth while I go back to school and finish a degree. The church pays for school and I work for them! It sounds amazing, and I am YEARNING to work with kids in a spiritual arena again. He always wants me to start helping out with youth group now, maybe w/ a girls Bible study group, which I am ECSTATIC about! I miss serving SO badly. I know God has a place for me, that he is going to fill this void and this yearning, and I can’t WAIT to see what he does with it! GOD’S AMAZING!

Political controversy

Let me give you this scenario. I walk into work at 7:30 in the morning, not a time I really like to be at work, but I have to, so that’s that. Into the kitchen I go where I usually get to talk to my favorite cook, he’s usually a laugh. Not this morning mind you, he’s ranting about how republicans suck and so on. I laugh and say, “hey watch it I’m a republican.” Ok, he takes that in stride w/ just a few snide remarks, then goes on to say one of many remarks he would make that day about how George W. Bush was the worst thing this country had ever seen and he was running it into the ground. Now at this point I probably should have just walked away, but, I didn’t think it would be that bad if I just jokingly said, “hey I voted for him.” No, wrong answer. I then got berated for the next hour about how I was affecting children for years to come and how could I do this to the world and was a I rich or something, how could I afford to vote for Bush??? After a bit of that and almost being in tears I finally left, because you just can’t argue w/ someone who is only going to see his side anyway and is blaming the countries debt (which we have been in since basically the beginning of our country) on one president. The next morning, guess what, the same thing—I yelled back this time, although it made no difference, he just yelled all the louder.

If you are a democrat, I suggest you probably not read the rest of this blog, I may offend you, but I just need to let off some steam.

Why is it exactly that Democrats get SO pissed when they find out we voted for a Republican presidential candidate, and yet, when was the last time you EVER heard of a Democrat voting for a Republican???? It doesn’t happen unless they are just a registered Democrat and always vote Republican. I mean, when exactly did the right for speech in this country start to infringe on other people’s decision to vote???? You voted for who you wanted to, SO GET OFF MY BACK!!! I’m sorry your presidential candidate didn’t win. Blame it on a miscalculation or a screw up or whatever you want to, but it’s not MY fault cause I voted for him, you lost GET OVER IT OR MOVE TO ANOTHER COUNTRY! And maybe if you do move, you should move to a place where they don’t GET to vote, and see how it feels when people infringe on your opinions. I just wanna know this---how does a miscount of votes that happened in the previous election get someone REELECTED in the second??? I don’t infringe upon you being a democrat, even though I still think you need to get saved (LOL), so don’t infringe upon mine. Didn’t you mother ever tell you, “If you can say anything nice, don’t say anything at all?” Well, I am, so just shut up.

Renovation complete...and other stuff

Well, I fixed the new color (I didn't like the last one, what do you think of the new one?) and put the tag-board and links back on...YAY! It took me alot of time, but I finally figured it all out. Hope ya like it.
In other news, Dave and I went kayaking last night at a lil place in Bryson called "the Dip." the Dip doesn't sound really that big or exciting, it's just a wave to play on right? No, it's really a BOAT EATING MONSTER! Yeah, we got up to the Dip and it looked too big for me, so I told Dave to go for it! lol He did, and at first he looked like a pro, surfin the wave and stuff, but then I realized it was sucking him in and spitting him back out repeatedly, he didn't WANT to go back in. Then it flipped him over a few times and he came out sputtering. But you looked GREAT while you were in it babe, promise, no one woulda known the difference! lol So, after we both figured out the Dip was too big for us, we went to Dip Jr. It's just a bit down the river from that in a nice wave to play in without eating you alive. We had a blast! I tried out a Pyranha Sub 7 kayak and he tried a Liquid Logic Vision 44. I did an STERN SQUIRT! I REALLY GOOD ONE! Dave taught me how to do it, and it felt so good! He was doin great stern squirts and BEAUTIFUL enders, you woulda loved it Scott. I also did some pretty mean surfin if I do say so myself (although I'm still not up to par w/ the Dip). Anyway, we had a really good time, even if Dave did have to drag me out there. That's how it always happens though; I never wanna go and he REALLY wants to go, so I drag myself out there and end of having lots of fun. Well, that's the end of my tales for now. I think I found the boat I wanna buy though, I really like the Sub 7, but I like the Jackson Fun too, it's just the seat adjustments really suck. Any advice Scott? SCOTT? Ya out there??? We haven't heard much from ya in a while buddy! E-mail us or somethin k? Peace out yo! lol

Technical difficulties

As you may see, this site is having technical difficulties. I tried to change just the color of my template but it erased the tag board and my links. Hopefully they will be back soon. Keep checking!

Taming the beast

Well, we didn't so much tame it, as it rode us. We were down at the beach this last week, during hurricane something or other (the one after Katrina if that helps, lol), and the weather got a bit fun. Monday afternoon they came through w/ a truck saying there was a mandatory evacuation for Oak Island (that's US!). Well, it was ONLY a tropical storm then, NOT EVEN A HURRICANE, and we knew it was just cause everybody was freaked out over Katrina's damage that they were even saying that. So, of course we had to stay and ride it out. The bridge to get off the island closes down after sustained winds of 40 mph. It started coming in hard on Monday night, the whole house was rocking and creaking throughout the night, but of course Dave slept right through it (except when I woke him up, he was very sympathetic for all the 30 seconds he managed to keep his eyes open). Then Tuesday the power went off at 7 am. The Summer's family were down at the beach w/ us, along w/ my whole family (excluding Shannon and Shaun's family). As soon as we got up, Brad, Daddy, Dave and I rode around the island to see if anything had power or was open. We got to the LAST gas station before the bridge and it was open! It had a generator of course, but we bought coffee and those lil white donuts and got the morning gossip, so we were doin good. The lady said the worst of the storm was yet to come (we didn't mention that to Laurie and Mom, they weren't very happy we had stayed by this point). The wind and rain had done some damage to the roads, and a couple of signs and awnings, but other than deep water that was it. We played the LONGEST game of Phase Ten I think I have EVER sat through, and then we went looking for adventure. The kids had woken up by then and were starting to get restless (NO MTV, WHAT DO WE DO???). So, after pushing the warnings of our mother's aside, we went out into the storm, dressed in our bathing suits and holey soles; we were prepared for anything. We played in the ditches by the house, as they had become pretty powerful streams by then, but we had to hide behind bushes every once in awhile, because 75 mph rain hurts! Then, we headed to the beach. Brad and Daddy geniously explained to us that because the sand was so wet it wouldn't be flying around, so we would be fine (ha ha). By the way, even after Laurie and Mom's warnings, they were too curious to stay inside, so they came too. We started running for the beach. We had to wade through a lot of water even to GET there, but we were there. We headed over the sand dunes and......................................we got PELTED w/ 75 mph rain AND sand. OUCH OUCH OUCH OUCH! You could hear everyone screaming. Brad, Daddy, and Dave were trying to get to the water just to step in a lil, everyone else was running screaming for cover. We waded EVER SO quickly back through the water and to the house. My ears were killing me from very cold rain and wind being pushed in them, but we had HAD our adventure. We played some more card games and did a few more runs around the island in the truck, to pick up gossip magazines and the other necessities, and waited out the rest of the storm. The power came back on about 7 pm. 12 hours w/o power, and we had survived. The bridge was still closed, but we had our TV back! And we could cook spaghetti! Yes folks, that is our story, and we're stickin to it. I would do it again, Mom and Laurie, not so much--but it was fun, just sittin around thinking of things to do and just being w/ family and friends. I had a great week at the beach guys, it was so much fun. Thank you Mom and Dad for letting us come. Thanks Brad and Laurie for letting us tag along, we enjoyed your company very much.

The End....until next year

Saying of the week-- "IT'S ONLY A PHASE 1 HURRICANE, HOW BAD CAN IT BE?"

Like my dad's new car? It's VERY fuel efficient. 

a higher calling

I've been wanting to blog about this for a long time, and never really got around to it. There's been a real burden on my heart lately to do something of a bigger purpose than helping people have a good time on their vacations. It started with watching the movie "Hotel Rawanda." I think that every Christian, and really every human being, should watch this movie. I cried several times through the movie. It's not a happy movie, but one that is needed, to see humanity as it is. I felt so completely useless afterwards. I knew I had done so little to help anyone other than myself! I have been yearning lately to be used by God for His purposes, to help other people see him, but help them physically too! I feel restless at my job. Don't get my wrong, I enjoy it, but I need to do something more. The whole jest of this is to say, please pray for God to tell me what he wants me to do, and to give me the patience to wait if he chooses not to tell me soon.

see, they think so too 

3.65

There is no end to this madness, people here are just plain STEALING our money now.! Did they pay 3.65 per gallon to get the gas in the gas station? NO!!! They paid 2.50, but now they're selling it for a DOLLAR MORE! I'm done w/ the gas ranting for now, but if it hits 4.00 I'm hitch hiking to work ever morning!

P.S. ATTN: DEE DASILVA---first you tell us you're engaged then you just leave us hanging for a month!!!! Helloooo??? We want to know what's going on, and what your going to do next! And Disney World is not an option. lol Love ya!

and the waters keep on risin'

or maybe the rising part is just the gas prices.

Well folks, we're in our new place. "In" not meaning ANYTHING is in it's place, other than the bed cause we had to sleep there last night, but we're in at least. We no longer live in a mold infested apartment!!!!!!!!! WUHOO! Guess that's all there is to say about that really, Dave can tell you how the moving in process went and so on, considering I wasn't there for most of it :).

I do have a few comments to make on the gas prices however, considering we just paid THREE DOLLARS AND TEN CENTS PER GALLON to fill up our car, because everywhere else for the next 3 counties it out of gas and there is very little left! Yes, it may be up to a week and a half before there's more gas! So, we're gonna be carpooling alot, to say the least. I believe the apocolypse is coming when the gas prices in the US of A reach this high, or maybe we're just getting our due for having the cheapest out of the REST of the world for so long, who knows, but we may be seeing Jesus soon! lol I'm out to organize my house. Toodles!

P.S. pray for New Orleans considering the death toll is being projected into the 1,000's there because of the water levels.

just for the rush of it

We found an apartment this morning. We started moving in this morning. We have to be out by tomorrow. We ACTUALLY have to completely move tonight. I'm working till 8 pm. It's raining lots....remember that hurricane coming through? yup, it's hit. We stuffed a towel under the outside door of our old apartment last night so it wouldn't flood on the last night. Did I mention Dave and whoever he found from church is moving our apartment right now? K, just thought I'd tell you. By the way, for those of you who are wondering, we still have the same address and phone number. I don't like hurricanes--I would never live in Florida--I mean, what ARE those people thinking???? I'm done, gotta go back to work, then move for the rest of the night. OH! Pray for our landlord to let us out of our lease (the old apartment) and give us our deposit back, or at least reimburse us for the "carpet doctor" we had to rent all FOUR times it flooded.

additions

As you might have noticed, I've added a sidebar. The sidebar is a place just to leave me a note or whatever you want really. It's not a place to comment on the postings, it's just there so that you can leave random bits of info and we can correspond a bit more. We'll see how it goes. If no one likes it, or it just doesn't work for this blog, then I'll take it off. This site is now under construction and may be making more random changes in the next few days...the time has come for some change :). Talk to ya soon!

a tablespoon of salt

It's not quite a teaspoon of sugar, but I think it has the same ring to it, lol. The other night Dave and I were cooking my mom's lasagna recipe (which was very good inspite of everything mom, thanx), and Dave misread my my cooking directions. See, Mom had just been reading them out to me really quickly, so I had written down 'tp' for teaspoon, and 'tbs' for tablespoon. Yes, I realize those abreviations don't quite match up, but I was shorthanding it ok? Anyways, he thought tp was tablespoon and ended up putting a tablespoon of salt and a half tablespoon of pepper in the recipe instead of the teaspoon size to fill the quota. He didn't tell me he was second guessing the measurements, nor ask me if that was right till AFTER it was out of the oven. None the less, it turned out ok. We just had to drink a lil more tea w/ our salty lasagna, lol.
On a serious and GOOD note, we went and saw an apartment tonight. It's REALLY cute but slightly smaller than our apartment right now. I like the way the space is arranged though, even though the bedroom is pretty tiny (our bed will still fit in though, so we're good). Not sure if this is the one we will choose, but at least we're actively moving towards getting out of "the wetlands" as I like to call our apartment now.
p.s. Molly, we want to send you something--what's your new address over there?

long lost friend

A long lost friend called me the other day. He was an ex-boyfriend actually, but we were friends much longer than we were anything more. Our relationship ended badly, and I'm pretty sure we were both to blame; neither of us were the people we needed to be at the time. After a few months I missed that friendship really badly, and ever since I thought about him and wondered how he was doing. Well, he left a message on my answering machine...yesterday I think. He use to NEVER leave messages, he hated them, but guess that changed too, or it was just an important message. He called my parents house and asked for my number. My mom said he told her he was engaged! I'm SO extremely excited for him, and I'm so glad I'm gonna get that chance to "end" things well. We use to e-mail each other mutiple times a day during high school, and then...nothing really, for several years. I always called him on his birthday though. He always said I could never remember it, so I decided to annoy him after we broke up, and prove that I could....I've called him every year since :). Anyways, I haven't talked to him yet, but I'm looking forward to hearing about all the wedding plans, and the girl, who's gotta be something special, and how great his life is going. I love that, that an old friend is doing well, and I get to celebrate w/ him now. Thanx --to you know who you are, thanx for calling, it means alot to me. God has grown us alot huh? I wish you all the happiness a wonderful, Christian marriage brings, it's GREAT!

Cool sign huh? It's right before you come into town, I love it. Dave took this pic. :) 

P.S.

Because I keep getting adds for other people's businesses on my blog, I have now added a word verification process where you have to type in a word that you see on the screen before you can comment. It's just so computers can't automatically post their crap on my blog. Sorry guys, I know it's an extra step, but I've been getting a lot of spam lately. Please still comment! I love all of them!

God's dry shower of blessings

"I have faith God, I have faith that it won't happen." Ten minutes later; "ok I DON'T have faith God, I just don't have enough, I have ALOT of hope though, does that count? I have VERY great hope, that this downpour, will NOT flood our apartment."

As Dave and I drove home today, I felt a sense of dread, but not as much as I do usually when I just KNOW the apartment was flooded. It was a peace sort of, that even if the apartment WAS flooded, even though the ropes course and the river WERE flooded, that God would help us get through it, no tears this time. Dave said if it was flooded, he would see it as a sign, that we WERE suppose to move. I asked him, "So you WANT it to flood??? You're just temping God aren't you!"

So we walked in, to our house, fully fearing that we would be waiding through, but IT WAS DRY!!! We praised God IMMEDIATELY! Because you know what??? The drain outside our apartment was TOTALLY clogged up, AND GOD STOPPED THE RAIN!!! I TOTALLY believe HE was the ONLY reason it didn't flood today, just to show us that He can and will take care of even the little things. We definately needed that miracle today. And Dave still thinks we should find a new place, so I guess the miracle was as good of a sign as the house being flooded :); it takes more to NOT flood than to flood(sorta like the fleece in the Bible w/ the dew and stuff, lol).

Well, Dave's first day at NOC went REALLY well, but I'll let him blog about that.
GOD IS GREAT! .....even on the rainy days :).

Drying out

The apartment had dried out and the smell is slightly less disgusting than is was a few days ago. We haven't found a new one yet, but we're definitely looking. It's still a possibility that we MAY end up in staff housing, but like I said, no definates yet.
Had my first Team Building Raft trip the other day, well, that I lead anyway, it went suprisingly well! I mean, I HOPED it would go well, but I was a lil worried. I had one of my friends who works in the outfitters store on he river w/ me, he'd never been on one either, but we had a blast. Since most of the summer staff that were still in school have left now, almost ALL departments are short staffed, so everyone's been working everywhere. It's a nice change to the monotony.
Dave is starting to train on the river tomorrow, to check out as a guide! I'm really excited about it, I think he is too,lol. He's also gonna get trained on the Alpine Tower and Ropes course, and guess who gets to train him? ME!!! I think it's HILARIOUS! Not sure he does though, lol.
Well, I'm off early today, and I'm just playing around on the computer, maybe I'll visit a few new sites, or just get on my regular (ebay and all the blogs I read). Or maybe I'll just go home and read my new Glamour magazine, it's the 800th edition special, so it's HUGE!!! I LOVE IT! It's my one REALLY girlie indulgence, and I look forward to it EVERY month.
Well, I'm off. Gotta hit the post office before it closes.

Screaming at God

Screaming at God

Today on my way home, I yelled at God while trying to drive through my tears. “Just ONE night w/ my husband God, just ONE night to relax and enjoy the time we have together. I just wanted ONE rainy night NOT spent sucking up the water that is pouring into our apartment!!!!! I know it’s not your fault, but couldn’t You have just STOPPED IT?!?” Dave was yelling at God about the same time I was, but something like “I PRAYED about this!!! Didn’t you HEAR ME?!?” That was just hours ago. Once again, our apartment has flooded. We’ve been here 4 months and it’s flooded 4 times. So, first thing Monday morning Dave is going to talk to our landlord, and see what we can do to get out of our lease agreement, considering OBVIOUSLY this has happened before, and they said nothing but “keep the drain clear otherwise your house MIGHT flood”. By the way, the drain was PERFECTLY clear this time, and the water STILL came in. The moral of the story is, if you find an apartment, and the price, size, etc seem too good to be true, it probably is. Anyway, as we are a bit calmer now and not screaming at God, we are still sucking up the water that is in the apartment, taking shifts w/ the Rug Doctor. But we realise this could be an opportunity, not sure what for yet, but maybe there’s a reason that it’s pushed us to move out, or at least start looking, who knows. Just trying to remember what I said to a close friend last night…hmmm…something like “it’s not the end of the world, there are other things you can do! I KNOW God has a reason for this, and He’ll use it in a great way, something you may not see right now, or ever, but at least someone knows what’s going on.” Well, guess I could take some of my own advice right? Gotta go, it’s my shift. Pray for us, to find whatever God is having us search for, or at least a dry place to live, if only temporarily.

don't count your chickens before they hatch

I had my very first corporate group that I hosted all by myself yesterday. I was pretty stressed about it at first, as they are some of our most high paying guests, but it turned out better than I could have imagined. The rafting trip was amazing, and some of the ladies on my boat gave me the most gracious compliments on my raft guiding skills, which REALLY made me feel good. Two of the ladies were very nervous about rafting, and they told me that I made them feel totally at ease and they felt I was very professional at my job--wow! I hosted their dinner last night too and they were a delightful bunch of people to converse w/, asking me questions about my job and the area, and telling little tidbits of their life too. All in all, I'm not so scared of corporate groups anymore.
On a personal/spiritual note: Dave and I have been reading a book called "Priceless" that we were given as a wedding present. It's a money management book, but it's REALLY good. It's written by a Christian, and I highly recommend it. Anyways, I'm trying to find ways to save money in small and big ways, and I think that's what God is pushing me to do right now, for reasons or purposes I'm not sure of yet. Also my devotions lately have gone towards really enjoying those priceless moments in life--like Dave's and mine first camping trip together, our walks in the evening (which are becoming more frequent), or our Sunday mornings when we get to go to church together. Please pray that my prayer life will become more fervent too--I desperately need to stop, drop, and pray more often. Well, I gotta get on the river! I'll update soon.

belated Rowling outrage

Yes folks, I am VERY mad at J.K. Rowling. If you don't know who this is, you OBVIOUSLY don't like Harry Potter, or at least haven't read them yet and found out how great they are...well...until recently. I won't blow the whole thing, but the ending to the last book, "Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince", was AWFUL! I finished it around midnight one night and got a TERRIBLE night's sleep for the rest of it. As you know, I was SO psyched about the new book coming out (it came out July 16th just in case you forgot), but it ends TERRIBLY!!!! J.K. Rowling, I have half a mind to boycot your next book, if it weren't for the fact that I HOPE you redeem yourself and finish the series off right. Don't go the way of superman and spiderman Rowling, alienating the hero from their friends and killing off their "family" is just OVERDONE!!! Ok, I'm done now. Dave and I are going out to Yummi Yummi Chinese resturant in town for our 4 month anniversary. Yes I know you're not suppose to count it till a year, but hey, we like celebrating, and chinese food, so why not!?! Gotta jet!

they were the best of times, and the worste of times

camping was really great. We found a awesome lil spot right by a small waterfall. We built a fire and had smores, and swam, and then went to bed smellin like smoke (I love the smell of campfire smoke while camping). Then we lazed around the next day and swam some more and sunbathed at the top of the waterfall. In the afternoon we went kyaking; the first time we'd both done the whole Nanty since LDP. Last night we went to a Big Lebowski party, which was obviously a good time. Today was suppose to be my court date, strange you say, as it's on a Saturday, but I didn't think of that. Yes folks, the officer wrote down the wrong date, the court date was actually YESTERDAY. Now I'm gonna have to try and get MORE time off to go and deal w/ this stupid speeding ticket. But, the fact that he wrote the court date down wrong, could help me out alot. Who knows. I'm off to work in a few, but then there's a baby shower and staff goodbyes tomorrow. Well, talk to ya soon! oh, and pray for my family...they all just left on a Mission trip to Mexico today, and they'll be gone for a week.

Summer heatstroke

it's a bit warm here, very warm, the salt deposits on my face would show you that if you could see me right now. I just got off the ropes course, and it was HOT! Dave and I have a day off together tomorrow, so we're heading out tonight to go camping, just overnight though. We're going up to a little river where there's some really pretty waterfalls and things, should be a good time if it doesn't rain :). We went to a place called the "Fun Factory" in Franklin the other night w/ some friends from here. It held it's name well and was good fun. We played laser tag and lots of video games. At the end of the night we had lots of tickets and we put them all together and got LOTS of pointless little things that kept us amused for at least 5 minutes. However, I found out something new about Dave in those 5 minutes. He's terrified of Chinese Finger Traps. you know those lil paper/straw tubes you stick your fingers in, and if you pull on each side your fingers are stuck in the middle? Yeah, he REALLY hates those...and I just CAN't stop laughing over it! I told him I was gonna wake him up one morning by putting those things on his fingers then tickling him...wouldn't that be a RIOT? Well, I thought so anyways. Just thought I'd blog and say hello! I miss all you guys, and for those of you in Canada, Dave and I hope we will be seeing you this January!!!! More details on that later, gotta go meet Dave for dinner. Miss you all!

just gotta do it

Well Dave's home, and it's SO good to have him back. I'm sleeping better now that he's back and today is our day off together! As an NOC employee I get some pretty good perks, one of them being getting into the Bilmore Estate FREE! So, that's what we're off to do today.
It's been REALLY hot here, and I've been working SO much, I haven't had a day off since mom and B left; I worked almost 60 hours last week! I almost got heat stroke the other day I was out in the sun so long, but water is the key for overexposure to the sun--so drink up!
I lead my first raft trip all by myself yesterday. Which means it was just me as a staff person on that trip. My boat, and one other self guide, which I had to lead. It was fun! It felt good to be trusted that much, when I'm not even a trip leader, but it could just be that we're majorly under-staffed right now, but whatever.
Another thing I did yesterday, was I FINALLY got back in a boat in whitewater. I mean, I've been here since the 3rd week in April, and I've only been in a boat twice (and once was in the lake)! I don't know why I've gone back to being so scared of tipping over when I KNOW I can roll! So, one of my friends finally dragged me out to the river and helped me conquer my fear of it....I even ran the falls, AND I DIDN'T FLIP! That was only the 3rd time I'd run them, the other 2 were w/ the LDP and I flipped over both times. So, it was good to get that off my chest, now I can just enjoy kyaking...cause I really missed it, I just was scared of it to! Well, that's all for now. I gotta go wake Dave up and take a shower before we head out. I miss you ALL! And Spicer, I deserve and E-MAIL...fully loaded that is :).

weekend w/ the girls

The weekend w/ my lil sis and my mom was GREAT! We had an awesome time on Saturday going down the big Nanty w/ our lil mini me raft, we even bought the picture! Then Sunday they really like our church, which is good, I was sorta nervous they wouldn't. Then we went tubing! It was a blast, tubing in Deep Creek is the most exciting tubing EVER! We laughed all the way down--twice! Then that night we played Monop0ly, and I KILLED them...I've never won so big in my life! I think I landed on Free Parking like THREE times! Yeah, they're bad losers...jeez...but I'm not good at losing at Monopoly either, or anything for that matter, guess it runs in the family. Monday I worked all day, but then we went to see "Herbie" that night. It was actually pretty good! We enjoyed going to the movies together. Then we took a trip to Wal-mart and all overspent a bit. But I got the new Harry Potter book!!!!!!!! So it was all good. Tuesday morning we rode the Great Smokey Mountain Railroad. It was a pretty nice ride, and we got to chat for a long time and see some stuff we hadn't before. Then they rode the train back to Bryson and I worked for half a day. By the time I got home, they had all my laundry done, the house cleaned, and supper was in the making! Mom, you guys should come over more often!!! That really helped out alot, THANX MOM AND B! We had coffee and ice cream at the lil coffee shop in front of our house, and just chatted for a long time. Then we watched "dear Frankie" which is a REALLY good movie, I highly recommend it. It was a really good night. Good stuff.
Today was a long day w/ "Camp Barney." Great name hey? We mountain biked all day and had an awesome time, until a kid fell off his bike and had to go to hospital and get stitches...ugh. But all in all it was good stuff, aLOT better than the last group they brought. Ok. I REALLY stink. I'm headed to the house and a shower. I might head to a Princess Bride PJ party in a bit! lol Goodnight!

splashes and squeals

Today, for the first time, I did three raft trips down the river. I barely had time to eat lunch! But it was fun. The water was REALLY high today, so it made it alot faster and some of the rapids (especially Nantahala Falls) aLOT bigger. Now I'm probably gonna go home, take a shower (for the second time in a week, ewww I know, but hey, ya just don't have the energy after work--I even had a joke made about me today; "how do you hide a 10 dollar bill from Leigh?....you put it under a bar of soap! lol), cook something for dinner, or not, maybe I'll just pop in a frozen pizza, and watch the 4th season of Dawson's Creek. I think that's the one Candice and I ended on last summer. Yes guys, I like Dawson's Creek, but hey, ya gotta get your drama fix from somewhere right? Maybe I'll even read some of my new Glamour. Should be a relaxing night. Well, I'm off! Soap suds here I come...Lord knows I NEED 'EM!

out and about w/ some amazing thing

Well, I fell out of the blogging world for a bit, sorry about that, but I'm back for a catch-up. Here's what's been going on the past week. Last Monday, the 4th of July, was really great. I had to work that morning, but when I came home there was the big 4th of July festival on the next street over! So, we spent that evening eating hot dogs from the street vendors, listening to the street band (country of course), practicing a little kyak rolls in the river that ran through town (we had an crowd watching us, it was a lil intimidating), and ended the night watching the fireworks. It was a really great night. Then on Thursday, I had to drop Dave off at the airport, and I wouldn't see him again for over 2 weeks. That was hard, but we got through it, and I even got home in the POURING rain without getting lost. Also that day was a lil worry-some because that was the day London was bombed and we were both worried about Helen and the rest of the family in London (they were all ok though, thank God). That afternoon at work, I had THE most inspiring day of work in my whole life. We had the ACT group there, which is an amputi group. Those kids were TOTALLY and COMPLETELY amazing. Most of them didn't have a leg or an arm, but some didn't have either hand, but they still CLIMBED the Alpine Tower AND the Ropes course! Those children were the biggest blessing I have had in SUCH a long time. They were just kids that day, surrounded by lots of other kids just like them, who were determined to do everything, and they did! By the end of the day, I was almost in tears just by their courage and positive outlook on life. I wanted to take a few of them home. The rest of the week pales in comparison with that, but I have been having a good time, even though I've missed Dave alot. Sunday one of my best friends got to come over--I'm SO glad I got to see you Sheena, I really needed to. Then Sunday night I spent w/ some of the staff girls. Last night a couple of the girls came over and we cooked and then watched Jaws, and just hung out. So, I've been having fun and working hard. Hope you have too! I'll try to keep ya updated more often, sorry. I'm off to work now! Maybe I'll play ultimate frisbee tonight...if it's not raining to hard...but then again, that might make it more fun!

when it rains it pours

Well, this week was my birthday, not that I would let your forget, but just in case ya did, it was on Tuesday. So, Tuesday I happened to be working, which I have known for some quite some time, so that was ok. Wednesday night we had planned to have a few people over for my birthday. I even cracked out a new recipe from my sister-n-law, her enchiladas (THANKS BRANDY!). Yep, I cleaned all morning, relaxed in the afternoon, and started cooking about 5:30. Well, it started to rain around the time I had put the enchiladas in the oven and cleaned up the mess. Rain is fine, it rains all the time here, but then it started to REALLY come down. Well, there's a drain outside our apartment, and it got backed up. So where does the water go when the drain is backed up? Straight through the kitchen! Yep, about an inch of water came in in less than 10 minutes. It actually came in in WAVE form, no lie. As I was screaming and yelling that we were 'takin on water', Dave had the sense to jump outta the shower and run outside (in a towel no less) and unclog the drain. Yes, my husband can think on his toes. So, our guests understood about the water, and we called it an early evening. I was extremely stressed over the situation by then, and Dave wonderfully said, "you go out to the pub w/ everyone, I'm gonna rent a 'Rug Doctor' and suck up all this water, go have fun." Isn't my husband WONDERFUL! He stayed there and sucked up the water for 2 hours, and let me get my heart rate back to normal and enjoy my evening. And even though our house is still quite muggy (we're borrowing a dehumidifier tonight), it's SO much better because Dave can think on his feet. I love you Baby, thanks for all you do for me.

my watering can--part of my birthday present from Dave. ISN'T HE CUTE!!! 

the joy of silence, beauty, and the stories of our lives

buckle up folks, you may be in for a long read.
Today as Dave and I were driving back from my parent’s house, I started noticing more of what surrounds me up here in the mountains. I turned off the radio, which I don't do often when I'm not here, considering we don't get radio here because of the mountains, and just pondered inwardly. Dave had dozed off, and I was now in my own little world. The sun was heading in for the evening, and the sky was turning pink, and the mountains were just coming in to view. It was beautiful, magnificent even. The mountain air flowing through the windows--I was speechless. It was nice just to sit there driving, and just enjoy the drive for once. I didn't talk for a couple of hours, even after Dave woke up, I just wanted to enjoy the peace surrounding me, just enjoy those moments of wonder at what God has created. Then I started to watch movies in my head. Do you ever do that? I have a great imagination, and memory, for the movies. I like to watch them again in my head, and then change the story line alot. I also like to put a soundtrack to life. Something will happen, and I'll just think of a song, and maybe I'll "hum" it in my head for the next hour. While driving I was thinking about the book I'm reading right now called "Damned if I do." It's a book of short stories, and I highly recommend it so far. It's so much like life. Our life is just a big book of short stories. How many times have you written stories, books, novels, in your head?! I know I must have written hundreds by now, but would anyone want to read them, I dunno. Anyway, the book has sad and happy, funny and helpful, and even mad stories. So do we. We're not happy all the time, alot of our stories are sad, but they're written anyway. Because, if we didn't have those sad or mad stories, we wouldn't enjoy the happy, helpful ones just as much! I guess this blog today is just about enjoying life. Take the time to look around you, to see the beauty in your town. Even if it's just the wild flowers/weeds growing in the cracks of the cement--stop--breath deeply--and remember that life is worth living, every moment, if only for those few minutes that you smile, or even grin and bear it.
My mom's birthday was today, and we (my mom, my 2 sisters and I) went out shopping and to lunch. It was great! I enjoyed their company so VERY much...even when the twins were screaming through lunch at Cracker Barrel. I love you 3 wonderful women. You three are what I hope to live up to. Mom, you have given me more strength than I could even have wished for. Shannon, you were that shoulder to cry on, and the one who told me when I needed to shape up. Bethany, if I can grow to half the girl you are at 16, wow, you bless me every time I think about you. Thank you, my wonder women, for being my inspiration to push forward and live life to the fullest. I love you all SO very much. Happy birthday Mom.

p.s. my birthday is tomorrow, the 28th :)
h

HI's and LOW's

So this week started out REALLY well. I had Sunday AND Monday off, which seems like an eternity after a 57 hour week. Sunday we went to church and I had a long nap in the afternoon---oh so nice. Monday we slept in and I went to the library in the morning. Then we painted our chairs some more and picked up some movies we had wanted to see for awhile. Tuesday was back to work as usual. Except we had a group 0f 92 come in, and that wouldn't be that bad if they weren't SUPPOSE to be a group of 52. Yup, they called on Sunday, TWO days before coming, and said, oh, by the way, we're bringing 40 extra people--see ya then! Yeah, so it was a lil hectic trying to get 32 people through the swing every 2 hours--but I did it anyway. Tuesday night however, was AWESOME. NOC hosts a Raft Guide Olympics every year, and Tuesday was the day. Different teams from all different companies compete. They have to go through a pretty complicated run down the river; hitting eddies, flipping and re-flipping the boat, and slalom through different rocks. Plus, they had to run Wesser Falls, deflate their boat, put it on the truck, and run back to the rentals area. It was pretty sweet to watch. After all the competing we had a big Togo party! It was awesome. We danced until 11 and we could dance no more. Wednesday, back to guiding a group of 92 down the river--8 guided boats, 6 self-guided boats = chaos. Thursday, my last day before I go home to see my parents, work is ok, but I wanna get home to clean the house before we leave the next day. So, I'm goin a lil fast, and sorta zoning out trying to remember all the things I need to do. I usually slow down after one particular bridge when I see the speed limit sign, but I was in my own lil world when I got pulled over. It was a highway patrol car, so obviously there was no getting out of it. Yes, I got my first speeding ticket, and there's a mandatory court appearance--ugh. Anyone have any advice for me? I need to get my speed reduced to, well, keep my license. That made my day definitely suck. But, now we're back at my parents house for a weekend of visa work (finger printing and the such), wedding receptions, and birthday lunches. So hopefully it will be better than my more-lows-than-highs week. PS--my birthday is this coming Tuesday!

How far would YOU go …to get out of using soap?

This is not a story to tell to the young. Viewer discretion is advised

Tonight I learned a new thing about my husband folks, and I jump at the chance to tell you. Yes folks, he has a foot fetish. Now before you recoil in horror, listen to the story I’m about to weave. Tonight we were about to head to bed, but quickly remembered we had just put clean sheets on the bed. Well, there’s little to nothing better than clean sheets….when you’re clean. However, our feet were pretty dirty from walkin around a bit in flip-flops today. SO, instead of going to bed dirty or having to take a full shower, we opt for just washing the feet. To Dave, “washing” as a term, is used lightly. If you can't SEE the dirt, it’s obviously clean (no matter how many times it’s been used). So, he turns on the water, rinses them off, and dries. I say, “aren’t you going to use soap? If you don’t use soap, they just LOOK clean.” He claims they are clean, “Look at them,” he says, “they’re clean!” So I say, “Well, if they’re clean, lick ‘em then.” Now, this wasn’t just a touch them with the tongue then quickly recoil thing. This was a, lick ‘em from heal to toe and in-between the toes type of deal. So, what does he do…he whips out the tongue and quickly obliges. All I can say between laughter and being grossed out is ‘ewww’. “They’re clean” he states again, and walks outta the bathroom.
For all Nelson family reading this, I'm sorry you had to find this out. It must be a great awakening. Or, you either knew he was like this, in that case....YOU NEVER TOLD ME???? Well, I will leave you to your nightmares of Dave licking his feet. Goodnight all.

The South will RISE AGAIN!!!  

most EXCELLENT adventure

Well, I promised to tell you more about the tubing, so here's a short synopsis. On Monday, my day off this week, Dave and I decided to go tubing in Deep Creek. It was TONS of fun --till it started to storm and the rain started to hurt. Then we were trying to get the tubes back on the top of the car in the pouring rain w/o soaking the car INSIDE and needless to say we ended up getting soaked even more while laughing too hard to actually tie on the tubes. But it was fun. A church group was watching us w/ this ordeal from their dry van, guess we were a good show.

Yesterday I had THE most awesome raft trip group EVER. They were a couple of highschoolers and one or two college students. They were GREAT! We got stuck on THREE rocks AFTER the last rapid cause I was laughing so hard I couldn't even guide! GREAT day. Well, I gotta get outta here now, I gotta go do the same group on the Alpine tower, should be another good day, if the mosqitos would leave us alone and it doesn't pour too hard, lol

ps my shoulder is doing much better thanks to a friend in massage therapy.

cool shot of the side--ps dave took all these...GOOD HEY!!! 

the buddha painting 

the infamous chairs 

remember this Candice? 

what shall I do today>.....TUBE!

I LOVE TUBING IN DEEP CREEK!
more to follow, but most go host a group now, just thought i'd give ya a taster.

for Molly---i'm still here and kickin

This post is dedicated to Molly. Just so you know I'm still here, and I read your posts tri-weekly if not daily.
Well, since my last blog I've been trying fruitlessly to recover. The problem w/ my recovery program is that...well...I don't really have one. I've been working as normal and raft guiding even more. So, my shoulder has steadily declined. I woke the other morning (i use that term loosely, it was around 2 am) in great amounts of pain. I haven't been sleeping since then because my muscles seem to like to tighten alot during the night...I think they are playing tug of war. So, I finally called my boss and said "I'll take the workmens comp., thanks." So I'm hoping to go to a massage therapist soon. And that's all of my aches and pains we shall discuss.

Dave and I did finally end of strawberry picking. They are delicious...I especially like having them on waffles w/ whipcream...mmmmmmm. We're still painting our chairs too. I have tried to put things that mean alot to me on there. Buddha is a big part of my chair. About now my family and all Christian friends are freaking out thinking I have converted to Buddhism, but I have not. So...I will explain.

During the time Dave and I were on our honeymoon in Hawaii, we went to a Buddhist temple just to site see (they're VERY beautiful and elaborate). I was amazed at the quiet and reverence in which these temples were set! There was just an "awe" about the place. You were advised to take your shoes off at the door and light a stick of incense for a loved one at the feet of Buddha. My spirit was so quieted. I thought, "How different Christian churches would be, if we would just take ONE hour out of our week, and be THIS reverent to our God." I left there feeling very convicted to seek those quiet moments with God at all cost. And so, I have a picture of Buddha on my chair, and every time I see it, it reminds me to listen to the verse, "BE STILL and know that I AM God."

P.S. Chris---Dave and I went to see Star Wars III just because of your recommendation! I was a lil skeptical at first (because of the first one) but it was REALLY REALLY GOOD! Thanks Chris! Hope you had a great time in Bon Echo!!!

Bruises were immanent, death was assumed

This past Thursday we had a trip of 44 duckies. On these duckies were children in the 6th grade. If you calculate right...that means we had 44 6th graders...good job. Imagine, a sea of yellow w/ paddles flying everywhere, and trying to heard these masses off of ALL the rocks, trees, and rapid holes on the river. Yes folks, that was my day. I was assumed it would not be a fun filled day, because I was the sweep. I hate being in the back, you always get stuck w/ the teacher/kid that just CAN'T figure out how to paddle, no matter how many times you tell them they're hold their paddle backwards. Well, the day got even better when we got in the area of "turtle rock." Turtle rock is one of the most dangerous rocks on the Nanty. It looks all cute and shaped like a turtle, but it's undercut, which means the water goes under the rock. Several people have died under this rock, really. They float under it and can't float back out. Well a kid in a duckie gets stuck right ON this rock. So I go over to push him off before he tips over. I get him off, and then the current tips MY boat over and pins it on the rock. While trying to push my boat off and not get sucked under I'm banging around and it was just NOT nice. I finally get my boat un-stuck and get back into it. My left shin looks like a pinllata(sp? spell check just didn't have it!) it has so many colors, and my neck turns to the right...sometimes. So there's my saga...i have to go back to work now. Just thought I'd entertain you w/ my life for a few minutes. Sure sure...enjoy yourself while I'm in pain...thanx alot.